"Apologies," Merlin said gruffly, shaking his head a little to clear it of the lingering images. Prophesy could be a bit of fun, like at the masque ball, or it could come on unexpectedly, like this time. "Prophesy is a wild and unpredictable beast at times."
He regarded Marian thoughtfully though, having seen just a glimpse of that dark cell, and guessed at its intent. He wanted to say something, but he wasn't sure she wanted to hear it, so he hesitated, waiting for her to speak first.