Morgana was threatening all sorts of retribution, but there was little they could do at the moment but wait for the lawyers to get a handle on it all. Unfortunately whatever they did the information was now in the public domain and with the internet would stay that way. The Publicity department suggested that the less fuss they made the quicker it would all die down, but both Arthur and Morgana wanted Mordred to pay for what he had done. They realised that his father did share some of the blame.

This was all put on the back boiler as the Coronation was due to take place in just six weeks. So everything was focused on that and getting Merlin well. Merlin stayed in hospital for ten days and during that time his brother and sister visited daily, even if sometimes they couldn't stay long. Gaius also visited and often stayed longer, having no other duties. Gwaine was there daily and sat by Merlin when his family wasn't present. He took Aithusa for her walks when they were. There were at least two protection officers at the hospital as well as police on the door. Both Mithian and Gwen spent time with Merlin to help him get over what had happened.

Merlin gradually improved and although his ribs remained sore and he found it painful to do too much the hospital were happy for him to go home at last. Arthur arranged for a nurse to be on duty at Windsor for a week. Merlin would stay at Windsor rather than travel between palaces. Arthur arranged to travel daily using a helicopter so he could still support his brother.

Merlin got on well with the nurse, Elena was quite talkative but despite being in her late twenties she was very motherly and was just what Merlin needed. It was decided that despite Merlin's injuries and surgery he should still go to the coronation as he wanted to.

Special plans were put in place so he could enter through a side door once the other guests were inside and he would be surrounded by trusted people and there would be screens available should he have any problems. Reassurance was gained by all the cameras that not picture would be taken of the Prince should he have any difficulties. Nor would it be mentioned in any commentary. Aithusa would accompany Merlin and he would have Morgana to one side and Gaius on the other with Gwaine and Elyan behind him so he felt secure.

When the rehearsals took place Merlin was not involved although he did watch films of the rehearsals so he knew what to expect. Merlin was taken to the final rehearsal so he knew what to do when he went to plead his loyalty to his brother. He also wore the coronet for several hours in his room to make sure it didn't hurt his head to much. He had only a burr hole to show for his surgery rather than a large opening so it was hoped he would cope. At least his arm would be out of plaster.

"I wish I could stop the Duke of Essetir coming to the coronation but at least Mordred won't be there. I have made it clear he is not to come." Arthur told his sister. "He is still in America and showing no signs of wanting to come back. The legal team aren't pushing yet as the timing is so bad"

"I want him done for what he did Arthur" Morgana said vehemently "He shouldn't get away with it"

"Well I don't think he will get much, but I won't have him in our circles again. I will refuse to meet him. Pity the days have gone when I could have got his head cut off" Arthur commented only half in jest.

"You're to kind I would have him hung draw and quartered. If ever I meet him again I won't be responsible for my actions." Morgana hissed "His father is no better. He was bragging about how close he was to you before all this" she paused "I had a phone call yesterday from Freya Lake the Duke of Avalon's daughter, she is back from a year in Australia and wanted to visit Merlin, if you remember she was friends with him before."

"So was Mordred and look how that turned out" Arthur told his sister "Can you meet her and see what you think, I want him to have friends his own age but not if they are a risk to him"

"If I remember Freya she's a meek little mouse and very gentle. But I will take care believe me" Morgana said "She will have to pass the Aithusa test, that dog was never that keen on Mordred. Do you think we are doing the right thing letting Merlin come to the Coronation? Only he looked terrified in rehearsals

Arthur was also concerned "I spoke to Gwen and she says yes, she thinks it will help him as the spot light will be on me, If you think he is finding it too much get him out, I'm sure a little distraction won't hurt"

"He won't leave you know that he seems to be very determined. I suppose that's a good thing." Morgana mused "I just want to protect him"

"We all do but as Gwen says he has to be allowed to grow and stretch himself, try not to worry Morgana, just concentrate on the fact that you will be dressed up like you never will again, now's your chance to wear all the diamonds you want to."

Morgana smiled "Maybe but I can't chose my clothing it's all picked out. I did have some say in my dress but not much. But your right the jewels are worth it"

The week before the Coronation Gwen worked with Merlin on his relaxation techniques with Gaius and Gwaine so they could help him of needed.