Based on the excerpt from The Lost Years of Merlin by T. A. Barron, write a narrative that tells what will most likely happen to the boy next. Use what you know about the characters, setting, and events from the excerpt to write your narrative.

After escaping from the castle and the clutches of the cruel king, the boy felt a surge of freedom and determination. He knew that his powers were growing, and he was ready to fulfill his destiny as the greatest wizard of all time. With a new sense of purpose, he set out into the wilderness, eager to discover more about his magical abilities and unlock the secrets of his past.

As he traveled through the ancient forests and rugged mountains, the boy encountered all manner of challenges and obstacles. But with each trial, he grew stronger and more confident in his abilities. He learned to harness the elements, communicate with animals, and even decipher the ancient language of the trees.

Along the way, he met a band of outcasts and misfits who had also been cast aside by society. Together, they formed a tight-knit group, each member bringing their own unique talents and strengths to the table. With their support and friendship, the boy felt unstoppable, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months, the boy honed his skills and gained a deeper understanding of the world around him. He traveled to distant lands, encountered mystical creatures, and faced even greater dangers. But through it all, he remained steadfast in his mission to become the greatest wizard the world had ever known.

And so, as the boy stood on the brink of greatness, surrounded by friends and allies who believed in him, he knew that his journey was far from over. With every step he took, he moved closer to his true destiny, ready to embrace the power and responsibility that awaited him. The boy was no longer just a boy—he was Merlin, the legendary wizard whose name would be whispered in awe for centuries to come.