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There had been at least three times as many bandits as there were knights, but no one was worried with Merlin on their side. They all fought valiantly for far longer than expected. The moment the knights started to get overwhelmed, Merlin stepped up.
He thrust his hands out in front of him and his eyes glowed as power surged out of him. The ground shook, and suddenly every single bandit was thrown back with incredible force. He smiled as the knights looked back at him and cheered.
Before Merlin had a chance to celebrate, he realized he may have overdone it. The amount of magic he’d used had taken a lot out of him. His vision blurred and he felt his knees giving out. He saw Arthur running to catch him, and then it all went black.
~
When Merlin came to, his head was comfortably pillowed between two legs, while someone else sat beside him holding his hand. He was beginning to stir when he heard Gwaine’s voice.
“I think he’s waking up, go fetch him some water El.”
“No way! You always get to hold him when he’s hurt. It’s my turn for once.”
“Uhg, fine.” Gwaine scoffed before gently shifting Merlin so his head lay fully in Elyan’s lap.
“Here, I’ve got some extra!” Percy called out.
Merlin opened his eyes and sat up a bit as Percy rushed over to press the water skin to his lips. He drank a few sips and took in his surroundings.
Elyan was behind him, supporting his back while Lancelot sat quietly squeezing his hand. Leon was kneeling at his other side, brushing the hair from his face before placing a wet cloth on his forehead. Stood before him were Gwaine and Arthur, the latter of the two looking equally relieved and annoyed.
“Thank gods you’re okay, you bloody idiot!”
“I’m perfectly fine thank you, and you’re welcome for saving your asses.” Merlin glared up at Arthur.
Gwaine elbowed Arthur in the ribs and whispered, “Be nice!”
Arthur rolled his eyes and sighed. “You know we appreciate you Merlin, but you must also know that we… well you know.”
“We can’t stand the thought of losing you.” Lance supplied helpfully.
Leon chimed in as well, “We all love you Merlin.”
The other knights and Arthur all nodded in agreement.
Merlin blushed and rubbed the back of his neck. “I know, I’ll be more careful. And I love you all too.”
That night they all held each other just a little bit closer as they slept in a pile by the campfire.