Gaius watched Arthur leave with a considering frown set on his wrinkled face. Once the prince was gone, he began to clean up his supplies, intent on keeping himself busy until the young man - the druid - awakened. He would not have to wait long, as only a few hours later Emrys began to stir. He suddenly shifted on the cot, a soft groan escaping his lips as his eyelids fluttered. Gaius hurried over to his side, placing a hand on his uninjured shoulder to keep him still. Emry's blue eyes opened, slightly cloudy with fatigue, and he looked up at the physician blearily.

[b]"Wh...what happened?"[/b] he croaked out, struggling to sit up. Gaius helped him into a sitting position and handed him a cup of water that had been waiting on the table. [b]"Where am I?"[/b] As soon as he was conscious he could feel that his wound had been treated, and the old man in front of him had kind eyes, so he knew that he had been rescued.

[b]"You are in Camelot."[/b] Gaius didn't miss the way the young man flinched at the name. [b]"Prince Arthur brought you to me when he found you injured in the forest."[/b]

Emrys' eyes widened comically. [b]"P-Prince Arthur?"[/b] he spluttered, his tone incredulous. Gaius nodded, gesturing to the cup of water in his hand.

[b]"Drink."[/b] The druid hesitated but eventually reached for the water, taking a few slow sips. The cool water felt heavenly on his dry throat, and when he spoke again his voice was clearer.

[b]"Thank you."[/b] He then attempted to stand, at which point Gaius had to hold him back.

[b]"Where do you think you're going? You still need to recover!"[/b] Emrys avoided eye contact, picking at a loose thread on the blanket draped over him.

[b]"I...I can't stay here. I...have to go home."[/b] Gaius sighed and gave Emrys a pointed look.

[b]"I know you are a druid. I saw the mark."[/b] The young man stiffened, his body going rigid, his eyes brightening with panic. [b]"Don't worry. I won't tell anyone."[/b] Emrys looked up at the healer in shock. Gaius gave him a wry smile. [b]"I once practiced magic, a long time ago."[/b]

Emrys sat up straighter, ignoring the twinge of pain in his shoulder. [b]"You did?"[/b]

[b]"Yes, and I knew many druids in my younger days. Because of that I will keep your secret safe. But you cannot leave."[/b]

The brunette frowned. [b]"Why not?"[/b] Gaius sighed heavily.

[b]"You owe Prince Arthur your life. You are indebted to him."[/b] Emrys stared at him for a few moments, processing. Then he let out a groan and flopped back onto the bed.

[b]"Of course I am,"[/b] he muttered, throwing his uninjured arm over his eyes. Gaius found himself smiling at the young man's actions.

[b]"What's your name, young man?"[/b] Emrys was silent for a few moments, thinking. Then, he said quietly,

[b]"My name is Merlin."[/b] Gaius nodded.

[b]"What an interesting name. Anyway, you have to keep that mark hidden while you are here. I can give you a wrap for it."[/b] Emrys gave the old man a tired smile.

[b]"Thank you again, mister...?"[/b] Gaius waved his hand dismissively.

[b]"It's no trouble at all. And call me Gaius.[/b] Emry's smile widened.

[b]"Okay, Gaius."[/b] He settled back down and closed his eyes, trying to relax despite the fear he felt knowing that he was indebted to Prince Arthur. Prince Arthur, the son of King Uther, who had outlawed magic in Camelot and labeled druids like him as criminals. [i]What the hell have I gotten myself into?[/i]

[Sorry for taking so long! I've been busy with college >.<']