How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Not a shriek of pain, but worse, the sound of a man in mortal fear. I thought the cry contained a word, as if the terror was shaped, but it was no word that I knew. The scream rose unbearably, as if it would burst him, then was chopped off sharply, as if by a blow on the throat. (II.8.34)
From a distance, Merlin witnesses a human sacrifice carried out by the druids. Although he's young, he understands what the scream of the victim really means. Interestingly, Merlin's not alarmed by the terrified victim. He's actually pretty excited by the fear in the air.
Weird, perhaps. But remember that Merlin's in the business of grabbing power wherever he can. Somehow, he understands that the druids' practices will give him access to an ancient (though creepy) source of power.
Quote #2
I sat up straight. The heat ran over my skin in little waves, like catspaws of wind over water. My breathing came shallow and fast. For a moment I wondered if this was fear, then I knew it was still excitement. (II.8.43)
It's a little odd that Merlin can't figure out whether or not he's frightened as he listens to the druids murdering a victim. But remember: Merlin's not like other kiddos. He is an agent of Fate, just waiting for "the god" to put him on the path to greater knowledge and power. He understands that this terrifying experience will be all for the good, since it will lead to more knowledge. Shady, but there it is.
Quote #3
"I thought once that I was better than other boys because there were so many of their fears I couldn't share or understand. I had others of my own, of course, but I learned to keep them to myself. I suppose that was a kind of pride. But now I am beginning to understand why, even when danger and death lie openly waiting in the path, I can walk straight by them." (II.10.43)
Merlin explains to Cadal that he's not actually brave at all. Why? Because he doesn't feel fear like other people do. Since Merlin has knowledge of the future, he knows that the dangers he walks into won't be fatal to him. Without fear for his life, Merlin reasons, he can't ever be called brave for facing danger. Cadal's still impressed—as are we.