Merlin cleaned the stables grudgingly after training was over. As usual, Arthur showed off and used Merlin as a walking target. He finished mucking and put the shovel away.
"Ah, good, done with the stables. Now I need you to get dinner preparations ready for our feast tonight. We are having high ranked guests, so do not mess up!" smirked Arthur.
Merlin had almost forgotten. Noble and royal friends of Camelot from different realms were coming to celebrate their alliance. Merlin also knew to keep an eye on things, because the last time someone was a little power hungry. You can't trust everyone these days, title or no. Merlin entered the dining hall to see it's usual splendor. There was gold everywhere, no dust and plates of extravagant foods. He never ate like this. But then again, he was merely a servant of the King.
It took an hour to do the final touches for this big feast. After a while, guests started pouring in the doors and sitting down, talking animatedly. Morgana came in, escorted by Arthur, as was custom for the ward. Merlin flushed. She was wearing a beautiful new gown in honor of the event. He shook his head, for he had work to do.
"Welcome honored guests and friends of Camelot. For many years my father has enjoyed the blessings of our alliance. Ever since the formation of said alliance, we have shared peace amongst our lands. Today we celebrate! To peace and prosperity!" said Arthur, glass raised in a toast.
"To peace!" shouted the guests.
Dinner was served.
"Let us eat, drink and be merry!" said Arthur with a smile.
Everyone chuckled appreciatively and tucked in. The merriment did indeed begin.
"Morgana, it is a pleasure to have you back." Said a noble sitting on her right.
"I thank you." Beamed Morgana.
King Odair, new to the alliance as of last year, leaned over to Arthur.
"I am really sorry about the loss of your Father and about your uncle. But at least Morgana is back and normal again."
"Indeed. It has quite a transition, but things are better now. I still wish my father was here, but life goes on." Arthur responded, his face masking his grief.
"You are taking it well, the mark of a true King." Complimented Odair.
"My thanks to you Odair, it is not easy accomplished."
"I should think not."
Arthur just kept eating. Odair stared proceeded to stare at Arthur. This stare was a strange, hungry one. After all, Camelot was a juicy prize for the plucking. There was just one person standing in the way.