The morning of the coronation was hectic. Luckily for all the people camping out it was a glorious day but Arthur barely had time to go and say good morning to Merlin. But he did manage a few minutes, Morgana managed a bit longer and reassured Merlin all would be well. Merlin remained adamant that he would attend he had been prescribed a very low dose of diazepam to help keep him calm. By mid-morning he was dressed in his suit and his red cloak with its ermine collar. He wasn't a honorary commander of any of the forces so didn't wear a uniform like his brother under his ceremonial gown, Gwaine had his coronet safe in its box as they made their way down to the normal car. Elyan and Aithusa were in the car as well as they drove to the side entrance of Westminster Abbey.
Most of the congregation were already in place as Merlin walked in his coronet now firmly on his head. Luckily his scars were healed and the rim of the coronet missed the area anyway. Merlin was now also free of his plaster cast but his shoulder was still a bit sore as were his ribs, Aithusa was sat by Merlin's feet so he could pet her. He sat down next to Gaius who was also resplendent in his duke's gowns. There was an empty place at his side where Morgana would sit when she arrived. Gwaine and Elyan were sat behind Merlin in a place normal reserved for peers of the realm. To one side by a pillar were some folded screens ready to shield Merlin should the tension of the day cause a seizure, that had been more frequent since his operation, but they had been reducing. Arthur and Morgana where to arrive in the gold state coach. As Arthur was unmarried Morgana was acting as his escort. She was now next in line as all the relevant procedures had been completed.
As soon as the Gold coach arrived Morgana came and sat by Merlin. Arthur's coronation had now started. The ceremony went on for over an hour before Morgana and Merlin were to join the other Dukes to pay homage Morgana went first them Merlin knelt before Arthur, he had been practicing his words for the past couple of weeks but could see the words if he needed to in a book held by the Archbishop. But he was word perfect with only the barest pause. He was wearing a hidden microphone to amplify his normal whisper:
"I Prince Merlin Duke of York do become your liege man of life and limb, and of earthly worship; and faith and truth will I bear unto you, to live and die, against all manner of folks, So help me God"
He looked up at his brother and got a smile of encouragement had got up and stepped back to wait as all the others swore their oaths. Morgana took his hand silently and smiled at him. He had done it. Even if they had cut several of his titles out to make it slightly easier for him.
When everyone had finished and Arthur walked down to the gold coach for the trip back to Buckingham Palace Merlin went with Morgana and all three went back to the Palace together. Arthur waved as did Morgana but Merlin seeing the huge crowds sank back in his seat and only peaked out occasionally. His brother smiled at him "You did very well today Merlin I am very proud of you and thank you for coming it has meant so much to me."
Merlin beamed at his brothers words, he still always felt surprised when he was praised for anything. Morgana also told him how proud she was. Merlin was exhausted by happy. Once the carriage got back to Buckingham Palace and they were inside there were lots of official photos taken before Arthur, Morgana and Gaius went out onto the balcony. Merlin went out part way but saw the thousands of people and heard the cheer and he stood back. Once Aithusa was brought to him Arthur stepped back with Morgana and they took a hand each and coaxed him out. The cheer that went up as they saw the Hidden Prince was deafening and once more Merlin went back into the shadows. But he loved the fly past, especially the Red Arrows.
They then went back in for more photos before retiring before the banquet. Merlin wasn't going to attend that. He had had enough and Arthur didn't want to put him under any more pressure. He had arranged for a special meal to be sent to Merlin's rooms for Merlin and his protection officers.
Arthur and Morgana came to see him briefly. Then later Morgana came up as Arthur gave his televised speech. They sat together to watch it.
Arthur was still on a high, it had been a hard day but one he would never forget, he was so proud to be such a part of a country that could still present itself and its history in such a way. He sat before the cameras and spoke from the heart.
"When I spoke to you last it was to tell you of my joy of discovering my brother I thought dead was given back to us. I also spoke of losing my father. Your thoughts and prayers helped to sustain me during those difficult times, Throughout this memorable day I have been sustained in the knowledge that your thoughts were with me. I was aware that my people spread throughout every continent of the world, were united with me at this time and that you will support me in the task ahead that I will now dedicate myself to.
Thousands of you came to London and millions have watched on your television sets for all parts of the Commonwealth and beyond to join in the ceremony. I find it hard to tell you what strength this has given me. Many of today's ceremonies are ancient and some of their origins are lost in time, but their spirit and meaning shine still. I will strive to uphold my oaths and be worthy of the honor and trust given to me.
In this I have both my sister and brother to support me. I cannot tell you how just saying brother lifts my heart, he was someone I didn't think would ever see this day. The fact that Prince Merlin managed to cope with such a large gathering to be with me after all he has been through means more than I can say. My sister Princess Morgana has supported us both through these difficult times and has my full confidence and affection. I am pleased that the law has been changed to allow a woman to be seen as equal in the succession, something that is only right and proper in our modern world of equality.
I realise I am young and inexperienced in the task ahead of me but I will take examples for the best of my past forbears to guide me. I have behind me the splendid traditions of more than a thousand years and the living strength of the Commonwealth, of lands and races who are all united as god's children regardless of race and belief in the same aims of peace and happiness for all. I hold dear the concept of free speech and tolerance and hope we can all find it in our hearts to outgrow our differences and see that we are all the same underneath. With the same hopes and aspirations. I pray that we all continue to seek justice and freedom for all. Freedom from prejudice and fear that will make all precious to us, no matter their circumstance. I have believe we all have a responsibility to those less fortunate where ever they are and whatever disability. That all people deserve the best we can give them.
As this day draws to a close my memory will not only be of the ceremony but of your loyalty and affection shown not only to me but my family, which will inspire us all and help us in our difficulties ahead. I thank you with all my heart. God bless you all.
Morgana and Merlin were silent at the end, both honoured to call the King brother.