A/N: Hi again! This one is only a short one, but it's the first story of a 2-part drabble.

Thanks as always to xoxphoenix for beta-ing.

Disclaimer: Merlin is the property of the BBC, sadly. Takes place at no particular point in the series timeline - most likely after series 3.


004. Desperate

"Arthur, please! Let me explain!"

Arthur couldn't remember a time when Merlin had sounded so desperate – not even that time that Arthur had been bitten by the questing beast and everyone thought him dead. The younger man looked close to tears as he backed away from the furious prince. Arthur ached, guilt and regret burning deep within him.

"No. I will not. You, a lowly servant, cannot demand that I, the Prince Regent of Camelot, listen to your blubbering excuses." Arthur responded coolly, his expression hard. "You will leave, now, and never come back. You are forbidden to step foot in Camelot ever again." Arthur heard exclamations of shock and anger from the round table knights – those who considered Merlin to be their close friend – and murmurs of curiosity and surprise from the members of the court (visiting and otherwise). Merlin's eyes were watering as he stared at Arthur, his mouth opening and closing in shock.

"If that is what you wish…" Merlin croaked despondently, his head ducking down so that his eyes weren't visible. Arthur almost reached out for his manservant, but quickly stilled himself. 'I am sorry, Merlin', Arthur thought sadly, 'but it won't be for long'. Merlin nodded his head once and hurried from the room, swiftly followed by a scowling Gwaine and a frowning Lancelot.


A/N2: Thanks heaps for reading!

-theSarcasticWench