AN: I'm not sure if I've stated it before but the coronation that takes place in this story is not the one that is in season 4. If that's a spoiler for some I apologize. Anyway, this is story was created while watching the first episode of the new season and may refer to some things from season 4 although there is a major difference… which shall be addressed… eventually.
Unlike what he had previously said Merlin did not appear again until the next afternoon at training. The dark haired boy was surrounded by cloaked men who were glancing around with no emotion on their faces. They stood near the young man as if seeking protection in the small man's shadow.
Arthur noticed the man's return immediately and stormed toward him, completely ignoring the others with him. The knights were snickering behind him as the prince watched the king stride forward with murder in his eyes.
Merlin, for his part wasn't flinching or backing away from his king. He was giving the approaching threat a timid smile. The king was not deterred in the slightest and proceeded to put the boy into a headlock and give him a rather violent noogie, or atleast he did for a moment before jerking away from the raven haired man with a yelp.
The sudden lack of force sent the servant flailing to the ground. "What the hell was that for?" his glare was meant to be fierce the prince was sure, but from his undignified place on the ground the servant hardly looked intimidating.
"IT BIT ME! THAT OVERSIZED LIZZARD BIT ME! I'M GONNA TURN IT INTO A PIAR OF BOOTS!" Arthur was shrieking, glaring accusingly down at Merlin.
A low growl came from Merlin's spot on the ground causing the prince to look down in shock. The sound, however, hadn't come from Merlin, but from the… thing draped around his neck like a glorified scarf.
"You'll do no such thing you insufferable prat!" Merlin put a protective hand around wthe thing's head, giving the prince a dark glare.
"I will too, just you watch me idiot!"
"Clotpole!"
"Wimp!"
"Ass!" the knight's faces were bored as the swayed back and forth between the pair. Darren's eyes grew wider and wider at the boy's defiance and disrespect.
"Useless girl!"
"Dollop Head!"
"Sire," one of the sorcerers stepped forward, bravely interrupting the arguing pair, "we are glad of your invitation to your lands, but we are tired from our journey and wish rest before we begin our talks." The visiting dignitary caught the king's attention. Merlin stayed sitting in the dust pouting until Gwaine stepped forward to help him up.
"Of course, pardon my rudeness. Alimar, welcome back to my kingdom. Merlin, take our guests to their rooms. Tonight we shall feast in your honor. Oh, and Merlin… be sure to wear your official clothes tonight." Merlin's face paled till it matched the creature draped around his neck.
"You wouldn't…" Merlin whispered, catching Gwaine and Lancelot's curious glances.
"Now Merlin, I went through all the trouble of having an outfit made to fit your position. It has yet to be worn! Tonight the meal is YOUR official business, so…" Arthur's tone was superior and rather smug.
"I hate you…" Merlin muttered, dusting himself off and turning to the guests. "Any way you would take me in?"
"The druids would always be pleased to have you," the man answered with a large smile.
"Arthur, I'm leaving Camelot to live with the druid!" Merlin announced triumphantly.
"Well then… I hear there is a magical beast at the borders… Lance, watch over the kingdom while I'm gone!"
Merlin spun on the prince eyes blazing gold and power swirling around him. "YOU WILL NOT!" He thrust his finger into the kings face. Darren's eyes widened in shock, the boy was a sorcerer. He was going to be executed! The king, on the other hand just looked down at the glowing finger unimpressed.
"Was that an order Merlin?" a small smirk was pulling that the corner of the King's lips.
"Oh never sire." Merlin's smile was rather stiff and to large, "I'm simply advising you. That is my position. If I have to wear the robes of my station, I might as well do my job of it. It is to advise correct?"
"Go get to work Merlin" ignoring the still rippling power and ruffling the warlock's hair.
Merlin grumbled but did as he was told, waving the amused druids to follow after.
Darren stared after the… warlock? As he walked away. "Merlin's a sorcerer…"
Lancelot gave him a friendly grin, "You didn't know? He's the court sorcerer, the king's right hand."
TBC
Lethy: A pathetically short chapter but there it is.
Merlin: What are you going to make me wear?
Lethy: Don't blame me, Arthur is the one who designed it!
Merlin: Uh huh and who's the author him or you?
Lethy:… me
Merlin: Case and point…