Author's notes: Okay, I know I usually only write Thunderbirds stories but King Arthur is a tale of a bunch of strong men fighting the good fight so I guess it's not so different. Thanks to Lynn whose suggestion it was in the first place so, naturally, I made her beta it. Good job she did too and very necessary as this is my first (and possibly only!) King Arthur story.
Harsh Words
"What has led Bors to celebrate so?" asked Arthur. He was in the Fort armoury, cleaning and sharpening Excalibur. It was a labour of love, as it was for all the knights in keeping their weapons in top condition, and he would never consider letting anyone else do the work.
Beside him, Lancelot was relaxing on a bench. He and Arthur had been enjoying a peaceful discussion about the day's happenings but their quiet conversation was being interrupted more and more by noises from the nearby tavern. Bors's voice could be heard above the others, exhorting one and all to drink and drink some more.
"Perhaps," considered Lancelot, "because it is one of his children's birthdays. Or perhaps because it is merely a Tuesday. Who can tell?"
Arthur chuckled this. "You are right that Bors needs little excuse to be merry."
As if he had heard his name, Bors burst in through the door, spilling ale from his tankard over the floor.
"Here you are! Arthur, Lancelot, the time for work is passed. Come and join me! There is a party to enjoy."
"Go away, Bors, we are not interested in a party right now," replied Lancelot dismissively.
"Arthur! Come and drink with me," continued Bors, not in the least put off by Lancelot. "There is time for work and time for play."
Arthur looked up from Excalibur, smiling at his knight's good spirits. "Thank you for the offer, but I do not have the time to join the party now. Perhaps another evening."
Finally Bors's enthusiasm started to flag. "Will you not join me? There is plentiful food and ale."
"I am sure you and the others will do it justice," chuckled Arthur. "So go back to your guests and enjoy yourself."
"You two are… are…." Bors struggled for a suitable insult but none came into his addled brain. "Oh stop flapping yer mouths on serious stuff and come and sing instead."
"The answer is no! Can't you take a hint, Bors?" Lancelot almost shouted.
"I expect this of you Lancelot but you Arthur…?" protested Bors.
"Bors," said Lancelot rising, "you are an oafish ruffian with no manners, learning, discretion or maturity. "Go away before I have to push you out the door."
Lancelot began to look threatening. Arthur sighed. His knights were loyal and provided him with good counsel but sometimes he felt like a parent with a crowd of unruly children.
"Lancelot, Bors! Neither of you is showing your best side. Be still, the both of you. There is no need for insults here."
Bors looked over at Arthur and then back at Lancelot. His deep respect for Arthur stopped him from retaliating. "I would not waste my time on you," he said quietly to Lancelot and left the armoury.
"He is an idiot," muttered Lancelot sitting back down.
"If you think that, you are an idiot yourself. You know better than that," admonished Arthur. He noted the slightly sulky look on Lancelot's face.
"Come, Lancelot, let us take one last walk around the Fort before the night air gets too cold."
With that he put Excalibur back in its scabbard, slapped Lancelot on the back and the two set off on their walk.