Chapter 1: Making His Mark
Arthur Pendragon sat in his gilded throne, his hands gripping the armrests as he tried to control his anxiety. How his father had managed to sit there so calm day after day as countless lords and dukes told him contradictory plans to help Camelot. As the final duke left and the doors thudded together once more Arthur exhaled loudly and put his head in his hands. Merlin rested his hand on Arthur's shoulder and Arthur made an appreciative noise. Looking up again, Arthur asked,
"So how's your front holding up?"
"Good. People are beginning to accept magic again. Lots of people are willing for me to teach them basic healing practices, they're more medical than magical but there's been a sharp drop in mortalities in the outer villages now." replied Merlin, his pride reverberating in his tone.
"Okay. That means there's a bigger work-force, so there can be a bigger harvest, but that won't be apparent because there's more people to feed."
"Yes, sire. There's just one problem."
"Merlin, tell me. My mind is already aching from the other counsel I've received today, just tell me."
"Well, there's not enough land."
"What do you mean?"
"That sharp drop in mortality has meant that almost every single village has greatly exceeded their boundaries and all the arable land is being used. The villagers won't chop down the forests because it'll mean there are less animals to hunt, and of course they know you enjoy that," Merlin nodded towards Arthur, Arthur motioned for him to continue,
"So either you're going to have invade and take someone else's land – which I really don't recommend, as strong as you are, the neighbouring lands are aching for a chance to take the throne from under you, they don't think you're ready," Arthur nodded and said,
"I've heard the rumours, Merlin. They say I killed my own father because of my supposed desire for power and now I don't know what to do – at least they're right about that" Arthur sighed, "What's the alternative?"
"We increase our fishing industry but until that takes off we need to introduce a rationing scheme, I'm sorry, sire, I wish there was another way, but your people will have to be inconvenienced so that in the future they will prosper."
"I understand, Merlin. I knew that being king would mean sacrifices, Lord knows my father made enough of them. You know he never loved after my mother – he didn't have the time. Sometimes I think it was for the best that she couldn't see how empty he'd become." Merlin didn't know how to respond and remained silent. Over the past few months he'd watched Arthur grow more distant and how he'd begun to reminisce frequently about Uther.
"Can you handle this, Merlin? I need some time by myself." Arthur asked, Merlin nodded and watched as Arthur trudged out of the chamber.
