UPDATE!UPDATE!UPDATE!
Here you go, all of chapter 5. Or rather, the same as last time with a bit added.
Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin.
Enjoy!
Chapter 5
Light poured into the room as Merlin opened the curtains by Arthur's bed. "Come on, get up!" he called over his shoulder, tying the fabric back. Merlin was hoping that whatever had happened yesterday, Arthur was over and everything could go back to normal. He doubted it though.
"What now?" Arthur grumbled, burying his face into the pillows, effectively smothering his words.
"Come on, Arthur, you have to get up at some point. You have early training with the knights, and the King wants you for one of his council meetings later." Merlin reached out to tentatively to physically pull the prince out of bed, but his wrist was grabbed and he heard a growl. Uh oh, he thought, maybe Arthur isn't as over this as I hoped.
After a very long and colourful rant, dotted with curse words Gwaine would be proud of, Merlin was kicked out of Arthur's chambers, a tad bruised from all the objects the prince had hurled at him. Merlin reached up to rub the back of his neck, wondering whether Arthur was actually going to leave the room for either training or the council meeting. Although he had to admit, it would be fun to see Arthur lash out at the Lords as they clammered for his attention, especially the expressions on everyone's faces. Although, Merlin wasn't sure it would be worth it. Arthur would find a way to blame him again. He usually did. With a sigh, he went to finish the incredibly long list of chores Arthur had given him.
Yey! Update! This will be the last update until Summer 'coz I have exams. Thanks and please R&R!
This next bit is set in the council meeting, JSYK. I didn't make it very clear, sorry. It was a bit of a rush.
"I propose we raise the taxes to pay for any future feasts. That way, the money won't come from the royal accounts and any extra can be spent on building a statue in your honour to serve as a reminder of your struggles against the evils of sorcery."
"An interesting proposal." Uther said, shifting in his seat in an attempt to appear interested. Arthur tried to pay attention, but really didn't want to be present. At least Merlin, who was standing nearby, had to hear this too. "Anyone wish to add something?"
"With all due respect sire, I don't think raising the taxes is a good idea." Leon, bless him, was always ready to speak for the people and liked to keep a close eye on the townsfolk. " The Lower Town alone has still to recover from being completely destroyed multiple times. The people can barely get by as it is, they can't pay higher taxes without starving."
"Thank you for your input, Leon. But I do like the idea of a statue of some sort to discourage-"
"For pity's sake! You don't need a statue, you burn anyone who so much as passes a sorcerer in the street and wave it in their faces!" Arthur exclaimed, frustrated. Uther turned to his son incredulously as everyone regarded the prince with shock. Merlin noticed, however, that Morgana only looked mildly surprised and strangely smug. Either way, this wasn't good.
"Arthur!" Uther hissed at him, "What is the meaning of this?"
"What do you think? Those stupid-"
"With respect, sire," Merlin called over Arthur, then lowered his voice when he realized all eyes were on him, "Well… you see… um…"
"Spit it out boy!" Uthur demanded. Merlin noticed Gaius' questioning gaze and raise eyebrow now directed in his direction. He had to think of something, quick.
"Stress!" He blurted, "Arth- Prince Arthur is very stressed. He's been under a lot of stress, you see, and…" He tailed off under Uther's glare, "… maybe a hunt will help?" He suggested weakly.
"Fine. Arthur, you are dismissed. You are free to spend this week as you please." Arthur nodded tersely and stormed out the room. Merlin bowed hesitantly before scurrying after him.
Thanks for waiting and please review!