Once Arthur had told his father of the pregnancy the Kings attitude thawed towards Merlin. Although he did add that he hoped Merlin's problems didn't mean she couldn't carry a child to term. Uther did agree not to announce anything until later in the pregnancy as he said "No point if she loses it only builds up the hopes of the people"

Although of course Uther did tell his daughter later that day. She was less than pleased and went back to her rooms in a savage temper. Shouting at her husband that once the baby was born they would never have the chance to get their son on the throne. Meanwhile Arthur asked for, and was granted, a period of time excused from patrols so he could be near his 'wife'. Drea and Freya were over the moon and were determined to fuss over Merlin, so much he got cross with them and threatened to bar them the room. When Arthur also told Percival and Lancelot, and informed them that Merlin would be unable to use his magic so would need extra guarding. "We cannot rely on Merlin being able to protect himself at all" Arthur stressed. "The Court Physician says he must use np magic as his body is changing." He made sure that no one over heard his conversation. "Merlin also needs to avoid stress so I don't want my sister visiting unless I am there."

He then sent a letter to King Balinor and Queen Hunith by fast courier explaining everything. And inviting them to visit whenever they liked. Merlin continued to get the cramps and nausea and became even paler and thinner as a result. Freya had the cook send up small tasty treats to try to tempt Merlin to eat, as well as the plainer food suggested by Gaius. There was a kettle of hot water for the herbal teas over the fire in the chambers at all times so at least Merlin could keep up with fluids. But he was totally miserable as the problem dragged on for over a month. Arthur spent as much time as he could by Merlin's side and was often found on the bed with his spouse just cuddled up in an effort to comfort the raven haired man. It was into the sixth week of the pregnancy when someone arrived at the castle and cheered Merlin up.

Uther had been called from a council meeting by the guards, when a dragon was spotted flying near the citadel. By the time he had called the knights and got down to the front steps of the castle he was met by the perpetrator. "Tell your men to stand down Your Majesty. Kilgarrah will stay in a clearing not far away. I have come to see my sibling, my parents will follow soon but sent me ahead." Gwaine made no reference to the circumstance of his previous visit and how it ended.

Uther glared at the man in front of him "Crown Prince Gwaine, I hope you can conduct yourself better on this visit" Uther said scornfully as he glared at the young man in front of him. "I would appreciate it if in future you left your beast at home and travelled by normal means"

"Probably, depends on what other visitors you have Sire" Gwaine smirked "I am here to see Merlin not cause problems as to my transport, I wanted to get here quickly and Kilgarrah is faster than any horse."

As they spoke Morgana and Agravaine arrived "That is no way to speak to the King!" Agravaine said as he overheard the comment. "You need to learn respect for your betters"

Gwaine looked at the Princess's husband "As should you my Lord, I am a Crown Prince in my own right!" his whole stance was one of confidence and control. "I will accept comment from his majesty but not you" he turned to the King "I have no intention of causing problems Sire, if I may see Merlin so I might send a message to the King and Queen" he totally ignored Agravaine

"You may, you know where their chambers are, your dragon I will assume behave" Uther enquired as he turned to re-enter the castle.

"He will Sire, leave him alone and he will not bother anyone" with that he bounded up the steps and along to the Princes chambers. Greeting Percival and Lancelot he knocked on the door as was bided to enter by Arthur.

Walking in Gwaine found the two men curled up in bed, Arthur was dressed in day clothes but hugging Merlin who was leant against his chest. He smiled at the sight and moved closer "Hello Merlin how are you? I have come to see how my niece or nephew is and that your brute of a husband is looking after you" his grin belied any insult as he looked fondly at Merlin.

"Gwaine!" Merlin beamed as he saw his brother "It is good to see you" he looked behind at the door "No Mum or Dad?"

"They will come, they wanted to know how you were before setting off, they won't be able to spend all the pregnancy here so wanted to make sure you were OK, I came on Kilgarrah."

"I bet my father loved that!" Arthur spoke for the first time. "It's good to see you again Gwaine"

Gwaine grinned "He wasn't best pleased, that stuffed shirt Agravaine was in the welcoming committee. I don't think he likes me, but not to worry I won't lose any sleep over it" with that he stepped forward and hugged Merlin "So I'm going to be an uncle! You look to pale Merlin and you are losing even more weight!" he was clearly concerned.

Merlin glared at him "Don't blame me blame the Bump"

Gwaine laughed "Bump, you haven't got a bump yet! All joking aside how are you?" concern in his voice.

"Merlin s having a difficult time at the moment, his body is having to deal with so many changes, as well as morning sickness, well.. all day sickness actually" Arthur pointed out "Gaius has banned him from using his powers and to get as much rest as he can"

"That's not funny Merlin, and I suppose it's all the Princess's fault, after all he got you in this state" Gwaine grinned.