DRABBLE FOUR – THE KING'S GAUNTLET

Drabble Prompt: Gauntlet


One day, things will be better.

It is the mantra that drives Merlin forward, day after day. Past every execution, every witch-hunt, every sneering remark that passes Pendragon lips. Every vengeful sorcerer that Merlin is supposed to stop.

One day. But which day? No matter how many improbable circumstances save Camelot, Uther is no closer to changing his mind on magic, nor is Arthur. Morgana seethes in the shadows and Merlin is duty-bound to ensure she does no more than that, but deep in his bones, he seethes with her. How much more must he endure?

One day. Merlin must endure it. He does endure it.

But then comes the day the child burns.

Gaius shakes his head in shame. "One day, Merlin… One day…"

Screams echo in Merlin's head like war horns. And destiny, he thinks, no longer gets to decide. One day? No. Today.

He enters the dining hall.

Sumptuous dishes go forgotten as he strides down the table to the king's side. Arthur and Morgana watch, wary curiosity.

At Uther's feet, the gauntlet falls.

"Is this your idea of a joke, boy?"

Merlin's eyes flash a golden warning. He will leash himself no longer.

"Pick it up."