I tried to get out of it. [Merlin's shoulders hunch slightly.] But Kilgharrah was right; you can't escape destiny. I ended up saving Arthur at the first banquet without thinking and... [He shrugs.]

At first it was because Arthur would, according to legend, lift the ban and bring magic back to Camelot. Then, I saw that he wasn't as much of a bully as a stupidly noble arse, and it was difficult not to protect him after that.

[After a long silence, Merlin continues softly.] I follow him, carry out my duties to him willingly now, but sometimes I can't help but wonder...