Having successfully distracted Merlin, Arthur snatched the goblet of poison and prepared to drink.
"No! I will drink it- you can't die, this isn't your destiny!"
Merlin's passionate speeches never ceased to amaze him, but he wouldn't allow himself to be swayed this time.
"Seems you're wrong again."
"Listen to me!"
"You know me, Merlin, I never listen to you!"
He raised the goblet in a final salute- and found himself frozen, staring into the golden eyes of his servant.
Merlin... magic?
"I can't let you do this, Arthur."
Pale hands pried the poison from his hands and blue eyes met blue in an intense gaze.
"You, Arthur Pendragon, are destined to be the greatest king Albion has ever seen and ever will see; and it was my destiny to help you get there alive. I'm sorry I won't be there to see you crowned, but if this is all the farther I get then so be it- I do not regret saving you."
He raised the chalice to his lips.
"It was an honor serving you, Sire."
If the prince could have screamed, he would have; but as it was he couldn't move a finger's-breadth.
Forced to inaction, Arthur shed tears of frustration as he watched his companion drink the poison on his behalf.
Not again, Merlin... please...
Liquid all consumed, the servant slammed the cup back onto the table- gasping as if he had just competed in a drinking race.
The prince held his gaze, hoping Merlin could read his thoughts now the way he always seemed to when it was least convenient.
Merlin... I'll miss you... I'm sorry... thank you...
The idiot smiled at him, then his eyes drifted closed as he fell to the ground.