Arthur was ordered to have a private consultation with Uther.
Arthur came strolling through the halls like he was walking sunshine. He flashed a grin at Gwen as he swiped a lilac flower from his basket.
"You look beautiful today!" Arthur said.
"Thank you. You look lovely too your highness!" Gwen said, "It's a beautiful day!"
"In a beautiful kingdom!" Arthur said. He happened to spot Merlin heading his way. His face because the perfect picture of amazement.
"Indeed, a beautiful kingdom… Excuse me!"
Arthur stopped Merlin from passing.
"Here. The rule is to give this to the most beautiful person in Camelot. You'll going to have to keep it!"
Arthur pressed the flowers stem into Merlins palm. Merlin smiled so brightly his eyes shone.
"Thank you sire, but you'd have to take that back!"
"I want you to keep it. It brings out your eyes!"
Merlin chuckled shaking his head. Arthur smiled at Merlin's smile. But he was in too much of a rush to treasure the precious moment.
Arthur walked into the hall. Uther's serious face withered Arthurs smile.
Arthur stood before Uther as Uther traced and retraced his pacing steps. He said a lot of words about how important Camelot was and how Camelot was to be put first and how the needs of the kingdom outnumbered the needs of the prince.
Arthur listened intently for some of it. Then his voice became more serious and firm and unarguable. In one sentence, Uther destroyed Arthur's world.
"Arthur Merlin has to go."
Uther was firm with Arthur. Arthur was heartbroken. He couldn't argue with his father. He was disowned last time he did.
Arthur just stared down at his feet furiously battling the tears trying to form in his eyes.
"Arthur look at me!" Uther said
Arthur slowly raised his head.
"Promise me you'll do what's right for Camelot!" Uther said.
Arthur swallowed heard. It felt like there was a mace in his throat ready to choke him or making him cry. Either way it would win. With all the courage he could muster, and his heart in shards on the floor, Arthur took a breath and simple said,
"Yes father."