The Two Princes (Merlin Fic)

Seven years

Uther sat on his throne, looking down at the mess that was currently Merlin. The boy hadn't said anything since thanking Arthur.
When the king had heard of Helewyn's magic he had Gale summoned immediately. Demanding the younger boy to spill anything he knew on the situation. Now, the next day it was Merlin's turn.
"Tell me, did you know that this girl had magic?"
"I did not, Sir," Merlin spoke, barely audible.
"Speak up, boy."
Merlin cleared his throat.
"No, Sir, I didn't know."
"Why had she attacked you then, if it was not to keep her secret?"
"Her father, he was hanged and I... I did nothing to help him."
"Why?"
"His loyalties did not remain with the reigning Lord."
"What of the boy, does he have magic?"
"No, Sir."
"How do you know that for certain?" Uther challenged.
"We all grew up where magic was accepted, if Gale had magic, I would know. We all trusted each other with everything, I can only believe Helewyn lost her faith when she lost her father."
Merlin hadn't seen his words as a complete lie. True he denied knowing anything about Helewyn's magic but she left Gale in a tight predicament. They were glad to be able to work out their story wordlessly and on the spot so as to create a solid alibi for the ashy haired boy. The king, though looking irritable, accepted their words.
"Very well, you are dismissed, but should I learn that you have lied to me, you will also be facing the burning pyre."
Merlin nodded his side itching furiously.
Arthur watched as his servant made his way out his face and neck, what he could see of it at least, was littered in violent purple splotches and cuts, his entire left eye had swollen shut.
"See to it that this girl is found," Uther spoke, breaking Arther from analyzing every visible bruise on his serving boy's skin.
"Of course sire. I've already sent patrols to search the outer regions, if she is still in Camelot, we will find her."
"And," Uther continued as he stood from his throne. "Keep an eye on the boy, her brother. If he acts even remotely suspicious I want to hear about it."
Arthur looked confused.
"Father, I don't think he's a threat. His loyalties don't seem to rest with his sister."
"None the less, we can't be to cautious."
"Of course, Sire." Arthur bowed and made his way out to the corridor where Merlin stood in wait.
"What are you doing here, shouldn't you be resting?"
The serving boy shook his head his lips being pulled into a tight line.
"I'd rather just continue with my duties, Sire." Merlin's voice has hoarse.
Arthur gave him a once over before sighing.
"Do you want to talk?"
"No, I don't really."
"Would you answer me a question at least?"
"We'll see. It all depends on what you ask," Merlin spoke reluctantly, his tired eyes looking for any sign on the prince's face that he should be worried.
"You lied to my father back there, didn't you," It was more of an accusation than a question.
"I'm sorry?"
"You've told me before that you new sorcerers, some of which you called friends. I understand wanting to protect your friends and even yourself for that matter, but magic is dangerous, Merlin. I expect you to tell me when a sorcerer you know is here so I can make sure my people are safe."
Arthur's words struck a nerve with the secret prince.
"Magic isn't the issue here! A man with a sword is equally as dangerous as a man with magic! It all has to do with what's in here," Merlin spat slamming his hand against Arthur's chest. "You will never become a great king till you realize a blade can be just as dangerous, Arthur."
The blond was stunned at his servant's rage that fizzled quickly, like a water dowsed flame. He watched the anger die down into a glazed expression.
"Forgive me, Sire, that was uncalled for," Merlin apologized letting his hand fall from the other's chest and retreating toward the physician's chambers.
Arthur had seemingly turned to a statue as the boy left.
The proceeding week crawled by agonizingly silent where Merlin was concerned. Arthur was agitated that his man servant was avoiding him as much as possible. His chambers remained clean and his armor was polished regularly, but it seemed that Merlin had become a ghost that lurked in the depths of darkness, unseen by the light of day and all that dwelled within it.
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"Why didn't you do anything!"
"Traitor!"
"You could have saved them!"
"Coward!"
"What good is your magic if you won't help us?!"
"Monster!"
"Burn him!"
"Burn the warlock!"
Merlin burst upright, his brow covered in sweat and his breathing heavy. Gale looked worriedly at his prince from his bed, unsure what to do. Merlin payed him no mind as he quickly changed and left uncaring that the sun wouldn't be up for a few more hours. He needed to clear his mind, the faces of his friends, his people in need of his help and him not doing anything.
Gale followed in secret as the dark haired boy dashed through halls eventually ending up out on the training grounds.
Merlin took a blunt sword and began slashing through the air. Even without the sharp edge, Gale was sure the other could kill with striking speed that would leave anyone questioning what had happened. The snowy haired boy leaned on the back supports of the wooden bleachers offering the only support he could at that moment. It was finally 'that' day and Gale could only guess how the secret prince felt, certainly Helewyn's recent betrayal wasn't helping.
The two were lucky to not be persecuted as sorcerers them selves but it ultimately persuaded the younger boy to say by his prince's side.
Gale noticed a lit window shining from the castle, from it he could see the lady, Morgana, watching. He couldn't discern her exact expression but he supposed it was one of confusion, maybe admiration for Merlin's skill. He would have to talk to her at some point, sooner rather than later.
Merlin fell to the ground exhausted. The blunt sword lay next to him.
"Are you going to be able to go on today, Wolf? I can tend to the prince if-"
"I'm fine, Snow," Merlin answered breathless not even bothering to let the other finish his question.
"You certain?"
Merlin looked to his young friend.
"Your too good to me, Snow."
Gale walked over to Merlin with a sad smile.
"Someone has to make sure you don't beat yourself up," Gale smiled brighter now. "Come on, the sun is going to rise soon and you smell like you've been mucking out the stables."
The two laughed and the younger helped his friend up. They headed back to the physician's chambers in a solum yet comfortable silence. Gaius was awake now and busying himself with breakfast.
"Morning Gaius."
"Hello boys. You're up early," the old man commented.
"I originally thought we would be sleeping in," Gale laughed. "Not today, though, I suppose. Even the sky looks glum."
Gaius looked to the window where thick clouds lingered in the sky, then turned to the two boys, Merlin specifically.  The boy was a mess more so than his usual as of late. 'Its that day' was all he thought as he went back to cooking.
Merlin stood next to the wash bucket in the corner and removed his shirt. Gale did his best not to eye each of the scars that littered his friend's torso, finding the nearest book to be more entertaining.
Soon Merlin was heading toward the exit with wet hair, fresh clothes, and his neckerchief tied securely around himself.
"Where are you going?" Gaius asked, three bowls in hand.
"To wake Arthur up,"
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"I'm not really hungry. I'll see you two later." And with that he was gone, leaving Gale and Gaius to eat without him.
The old physician sighed and turned to the snowy haired boy.
"Are you up for work today?"
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Merlin walked slowly to the kitchens to get Arthur's breakfast. The few servants that were moving around now gave the boy worried glances as they passed him but said nothing. Merlin payed them no mind, just walked close to the wall for support as if he would crumble if he strayed to far. Perhaps he would. The shouting that filled his head weighed heavier than any stones one could put in their pockets, and they caused him to sink just as easily, just as quickly.
"Good morning, Merlin. Everything alright?"
The boy in question hadn't realized he had stopped walking till Gwen greeted him. How long had he just stood there?
"Merlin?"
"Um, yeah I'm sorry. Good morning, Gwen." He wouldn't meet her eyes.
"Is everything alright?" The maidservant asked again.
"I'm fine, just...just a slight headache. Bye," Merlin lied and dashed away leaving Gwen confused.
The cook wanted to warn Merlin about touching her food but thought better of nagging the boy that seemed just words from breaking down. She was even tempted to offer him one of her cakes but he was gone just as quickly as he had come.
Outside Arthur's chambers, Merlin steeled himself for the day, praying to the Gods that he wouldn't fall completely apart, Arthur would no doubt loom something like that over the serving boy's head forever, and walked through the large wooden door.
"Rise and shine, Sire." His voice was monotonous.
The prince did little more than stir where he lay. The servant sighed and put down the tray he was carrying so he could open the thick red curtains. The action did little to light the dark room with the dismal sky on the other side of the glass.
Merlin sighed again.
"Looks like it's going to rain today."
"Good, no training, means can sleep in," Arthur grumbled into his pillow.
Merlin gave a half hearted laugh noticing the prince didn't even bother to give an actual sentence.
"Sire, your breakfast will get cold if you don't get up."
"Nooo," the blond drawled on.
"Arthur," Merlin huffed and sat down on one of the chairs at the wooden table.
Arthur was surprised he wasn't being yanked from his bed or hit with a pillow. He opened an eye and looked to where he had heard Merlin. The boy was slumped in a chair looking like a beaten dog, his hair was a mess, his eyes and nose were slightly red like he'd been crying but no tears stained his cheeks. Arthur felt a pang in his chest and asked himself, what was wrong with Merlin.
The two sat in silence for a few minutes, Arthur staring at Merlin, and Merlin staring at the table, till the prince decided to get up. The serving boy didn't seem to notice when Arthur headed towards the cupboard to fetch some clothes for himself.
Arthur was concerned to say the least. He noticed the other clutching at the fabric draped over his chest, something the prince was finding to have something to do with his past.
"Is everything alright, Merlin?" Arthur asked as he sat down to eat.
Merlin jumped, true terror in his wide eyes. The boy blinked a couple times then stood up hastily.
"I'm sorry!" He blurted out.
"Merlin, there is nothing to apologize for, unless you spit in my food of course," Arthur joked. "Then we're going to have to have a few words."
Merlin forced a smile and Arthur could see it.
"What is wrong?"
"Nothing, tired. I stayed up too late last night. Its nothing to worry about," Merlin replied quickly and looked away.
Arthur's brows stitched together but he didn't press and simply turned to his food.
After he was finished eating Merlin took the tray. The prince thanked his servant as he left. Merlin looked so broken and it ate at the blond and soon he was walking out of his chambers to confront the other.
Merlin had just turned the corner when Arthur exited his room. The prince walked quickly and made it to the corner just in time to watch his servant trip but the thing was that the tray didn't go down with him. As Merlin lay sprawled on the floor the tray and everything on it stayed in the air. Magic, Arthur thought wide eyed. Merlin has magic.
The boy slowly picked himself up off the floor and looked around and... started to cry silently. Arthur could barely hear the sniffles that came from the other. The tray fell as the tears began to flow and clattered just in front of Merlin who payed it no attention.
Arthur felt conflicted. He cared for this boy and didn't wish any harm to him yet at the same time he felt betrayed after learning that Merlin practiced the one thing his father had taught him to be truly evil in this world. Then Merlin's outburst came to mind. Could magic actually be good?
"Merlin?" Morgana's voice called as she and Gwen spotted the boy.
He quickly wiped his tears and moved to pick up the mess in front of him.
"Merlin, are you al-"
"Excuse me," Merlin stated and ran off.
"Merlin!" Morgana called after him.
"Let's ask Arthur, maybe he knows what's wrong." Gwen suggested.
Morgana agreed.
The prince in question was already back down the corridor and headed to the two people he knew would have answers, the physician and his new apprentice.
"Arthur," Gwen called out as she and the lady Morgana rounded the corner.
He didn't stop walking so the girls sped up to catch him.
"Arthur, do you know what's wrong with Merlin? He was crying in the hall."
"I don't know. I'm going to speak to Gaius and Gale."
"We'll come with you," Morgana stated.
Arthur rounded on the two.
"I said, I'm going, not we're going!"
"Merlin is our friend too!" Morgana snapped back.
The two stood in a glaring match and Gwen was unsure what to do. Eventually, Arthur gave in, turning to walk again this time with a triumphant Morgana and worried Gwen trailing behind. They walked in silence the servants and guards they crossed bowed and stayed out of the way. It might have had something to do with the serious stance their prince held.
Once they made it to the physician's chambers Arthur burst in without knocking.
"Gaius, do you know what's going on with Merlin today? We found him crying in the corridor today," Gwen asked.
Gaius was surprised by the bombardment.
"Merlin?"
"Yes, Merlin. What is wrong with him?" Morgana demanded.
The old man sighed.
"Today... today marks one of the worst days Merlin has ever had to live through. He lost a lot and it haunts him. Now, it's his and Gale's story to tell so I'm not saying anymore about it but don't expect them to say much on it either. Let them be," Gaius explained the best he could, choosing his words carefully while still telling them what they wanted to know. "Unless there's anything else I can help with I suggest going about your day. It doesn't help the boys none if you keep trying to bring up the past."
The girls nodded and made their way out. Arthur, who had remained silent till now, stayed. He waited till the door was shut before speaking.
"Tell me the truth Gaius, did you know Merlin practices sorcery?"
"I'm sorry?" Gaius looked surprised.
"DId!? You!? Know!?" Arthur demanded with a booming, authoritative voice.
The old man bowed his head.
"I did, Sire."
"How long?"
"Since the day he arrived, Sire."
"He's still good isn't he?"
Gaius raised his head again. The prince's words sounded conflicted and it had taken the old man aback. Then he smiled.
"Of course he is. Merlin would never even consider using his gifts with evil intent."
"My father always told me... magic was evil, it twisted the hearts of all those that used it."
"I doubt with all Merlin's years, would he be corrupted."
"How can you be so sure?" Arthur asked.
"Because Merlin grew up with it, he was born with it. Magic is simply a part of him and with what he has endured, he hasn't been corrupted so I doubt he ever will be. Merlin is a good lad, you know that."
"Right." Arthur nodded and turned to leave.
"What do you plan to do with that information?" Gaius asked worry evident now for his ward.
"What information?" Gale asked as he walked into the room a satchel full of herbs half slung off his shoulder.
Arthur looked to the ashy blond who knew all Merlin's secrets.
"Merlin's magic," he stated.
"What? Gaius, you told him!? What are we giving all Wolf's secrets away now!? Alright let's just shout out everything our Pr-mph!"
Gaius cut his apprentice off by shoving an apple in his mouth.
"He already knew! Don't go jumping to conclusions, Gale," the physician reprimanded with a raised brow.
"I won't do anything,"Arthur decide after the two had finished. "And I hope you won't say anything to him about it either. He deserves to tell me about it on his own terms."
Gaius nodded in understandings and with that, Arthur left just as rain began to fall.
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Merlin sat in an empty closet trying to calm himself but the shouting in his head just wouldn't stop. They weren't real but their words stung worse than a cat o'nine tails whip and seared his brain like flames.
The secret prince held his hands over his ears. If only he could shut them out.
"Merlin," Arthur called from the other side of the door. "Merlin, do you need to talk? Everyone is worried about you. Gaius says we shouldn't bring up what happed years ago, but still, we're here."
Silence enveloped the two and it drove Arthur crazy.
"Merlin?"
The closet door opened a slight bit and the boy ushered the prince in. Arthur's cheeks couldn't help but turn a slight shade of pink.
"I'm sorry," Merlin mumbled. "My emotions are getting in the way of my job. You must think I'm useless,"
"With a mace, yes," Arthur joked. "But your a pretty decent servant other wise and an even better friend."
Merlin perked up a bit.
"Friend?"
"Of course." The blond put his hand on the other's shoulder. "I'd trust you with my life."
Merlin gave a contagiously bright smile that caused Arthur's heart to flutter a little, not that the prince noticed it with this genuinely, imperfectly perfection in front of him.
"C-can... erm, never mind."
"What? Name it."
Merlin stood there a second weighing his chances before wrapping his arms around the blond.
"Thank you."
A strange hum of magic met Merlin as soon as he hugged the other. This was new, something that he was sure had never happened before but he decided it was pleasant.
Arthur was shocked by the action, but soon curled his own arms around the other, his heart running a million miles an hour.
"Anything for you, Merlin."
The two pulled apart, the hum instantly disappearing.
"How did you find me anyways?" Merlin asked.
"It took a bit of searching. Now, come on, before someone finds us in a closet and gets the wrong impression."
"If you don't mind, I'd like a few more minutes in here. You go ahead," Merlin said though uncertainty filled his chest.
"Alright." Arthur nodded and stepped out only to lean against the wall next to the closet door. He didn't want to leave Merlin completely alone, magic or not, the prince cared about his manservant, perhaps, a bit more than he should.
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Gale had found the perfect time to talk to Morgana when he went to drop off her sleeping draft.
"Gale," the lady smiled. "How have you been?"
Gale smiled despite the sympathetic face the Lady was giving him.
"I am well. I actually wanted to talk to you though, if that's alright?"
"Of course, Gale. What is it?"
"It's about this morning on the training grounds."
"Merlin was really going at it wasn't he? Poor thing's been going like that all week."
Gale had to do a double take of what Morgana had said.
"You've seen him training before?"
"He's been here nearly an entire month, Gale. Did you really think I've not seen him training before?"
The ashy blond was stunned, gaping as he searched for the right words.
"If you were worried about me saying anything, than your wasting your time. I have no reason to."
"Right," Gale was feeling foolish now. "I apologize. I'm just trying to look out for Wolf, I haven't seen him like this in a long time. I honestly don't know what my sister was thinking."
"Your concerned for your friend, that is understandable,"
"With everything that's happened to him, he's always been so self sacrificing and it always causes him more pain than it's worth."
"I've noticed."
The two sat quietly, Gale rolling the sleeping draft in his hands as Morgana brushed her hair out.
"I should let you get some sleep," Gale concluded setting the bottle on Morgana's vanity.
"Good night, Gale."
"Good night, my Lady."
"Just Morgana is fine."
"Right." Gale smiled and left.
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"Gwen, can I speak with you?"
"What is it, Arthur?" Said maidservant asked in concern.
The prince ushered her into his chambers before speaking.
"I need advice." He sounded almost sheepish.
"Of course."
"How do I put this? I- Well you see, I think I may, possibly, probably, might have some form of romantic feelings for...someone."
"You have feelings for someone," Gwen repeated.
"Might. I might have feelings... for Merlin."
"Your serious."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Arthur sounded offended.
"That's not how I meant that. What advice exactly do you need from me?"
"I don't know what I'm doing, how do I show him how I feel. What do I do if he rejects my advances."
"Calm down, you just need to start out slow. You don't want to overwhelm him or yourself."
"That's helpful, Gwen."
"Well I'm sorry. I haven't really got any of this figured out for myself. Why didn't you do to Morgana about this?" Qwen pressed.
"I didn't want to listen to her gloat and I thought if he was going to say anything it might be to you?"
Gwen just looked at the prince, her arms crossed over her chest and a brow raised.
"Okay so he hasn't said anything to you."
"Have you tried asking Gale?"
"I don't think he would tell me anything at this point. Sorry for holding you up, I'm sure you still have work to do. If Merlin does happen to say anything though..."
"I will let you know." Gwen smiled as she left.
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That night as Morgana slept, she saw something she was not prepared for. She always dreamt of Arthur's demise but tonight she dreamt of Merlin. His blue tunic turning violet from where a sword was buried hilt deep into his stomach a man standing over him with deep brown eyes and sandy blond hair tied back. A few strands fell in his face.
"MERLIN!" Morgana shot up from her bed flying out the door and down the corridor without even thinking. Merlin's paling face as his blood seeped into his clothes was all she could see.
When the lady saw the physician's chambers her pace quickened.
"Gaius!" She called in a panic. "Gaius!!"
The old man was instantly awake as the Lady threw the door open.
"What is it? What's the matter?"

A/N Hey guys, this really is just a mess of a chapter and I wasn't sure what I was doing with it but I hope you enjoyed none the less and thank you for reading.