A/N: When Merlin wanted to tell Arthur the rest of Gaius' story in Sword in the Stone Part 2, I was absolutely certain that this was what he was going to say.

Fulfilling Destiny

"You alright?" Merlin asked, jogging to catch up to Arthur.

"Yes," the King answered, but wouldn't look at his servant as they slowly made their way away from the campsite.

"Do you think there are too many of them?" Merlin asked, concerned.

Arthur thought for a moment, then replied, "Southrons are men like you and me. Men we can fight." Merlin nodded. "But Morgana…her power is so great, and we've got nothing to answer it with."

Merlin took a breath, and stopped. "I never finished Gaius's story," he said.

"Not now, Merlin. Please." Arthur turned to face his servant wearily.

"Will you just listen?" Merlin begged. At Arthur's grudging nod, he went on. "When he created the five kingdoms and brought peace to the land, King Brute had help. From a sorcerer."

"What?" Arthur tensed, and tried to bore his way to Merlin's heart with his piercing frown. The young man looked nervous, but kept talking.

"Brute's closest friend. A seer called Taliesin. They united their powers, and together were able to do what neither could alone. And it is only with the help of magic that you will be able to unite Albion."

Arthur made an abortive, frantic, useless motion. "Why are you telling me this?"

Merlin closed his eyes. "Because I want you to know that magic fights on your side today, Arthur." He opened them again, and Arthur gasped at the golden glow as the sorcerer continued, "And that I will do everything in my power to ensure that you succeed."

Arthur was speechless. "Merlin..."

Merlin gave the King a slight bow, squared his shoulders, and walked away, into the dark forest. "Just remember that, sire. And know that everything I've done, I've done for you."