Two men stared at each other. Just stared. Their future was now at a stalemate and crossroad.
The hunt was going well, it was just the two of them again. A rare time away from the pressures of the duties of a Crown Prince and Regent, to indulge in a favoured pastime with their most treasured friends.
The trail was clear and Merlin was surprisingly not scaring the game away.
Suddenly arrows flew around them and men surrounded them. It was chaos, noisy and loud. Arthur pushed Merlin away behind some trees yelling at him to stay back before turning around and fighting.
Arthur was good, he disarmed many of them before being overcome. There was just too many. It was an ambush. Too well trained and disciplined to be a simple group of bandits.
There were symbols of loyalty and affiliation but Merlin recognised the feel of Morgouse's magic surrounding the men. As Arthur fought, Merlin sought to counter Morgouse's protection. There were too many men and not enough time. Arthur was down, unconscious due to a blow to a head. One of them drew a blade and came nearer to Arthur.
Their aim was clear and Merlin knew it was time to reveal himself. He stepped out of the trees to get a clearer view and outstretched his hand and released his magic. Morgana's protection failed and all the men were knocked unconscious.
As the glow from Merlin's eyes faded, they caught sight of Arthur's widened ones.
Two men stared at each other. Just stared. Their future was now at a stalemate and crossroad.