A/N: Yes, yes, I know... tiny chapters- but you got two!
I'm already thinking about making another "Hollow Queen" fic that sticks closer to the episode.
Good idea?
As soon as Arthur heard the birds beginning to sing in the pre-dawn light he woke his men, dousing the fire and checking Merlin as the rest prepared the horses.
Gaius had kept an eye on his surrogate son throughout the night and, although he hadn't gotten any better, he hadn't gotten any worse.
The king mounted his horse and gestured for Gwaine to hand Merlin up to him, which he did- managing to show only slight reluctance.
Servant now settled against his chest, he urged the company onward.
"Alright men, to Camelot!"
The group rode as fast as they dared, coming to the city gates just as they were opening for the day.
Leon and Percival rode in front, clearing the way for Arthur and Gaius.
Having reached the castle, Arthur passed Merlin back to Gwaine and the two of them maneuvered the limp body up the tower steps with the physician close behind.
Guinevere turned away from the window through which she and Sarrum had observed the king's arrival.
"You see how he is? Abandoning his responsibilities while important visitors are in the castle- just to retrieve a single servant. It's disgusting."
Sarrum eyed the queen with suspicion.
She had approached him after the feast last night, proposing they work together to bring down her husband, and he wasn't quite sure what to make of her proposition.
"Ah, but weren't you a servant yourself at one time?"
Her dark brown eyes glinted dangerously.
"I'll thank you to keep such talk to yourself in future."
There was a moment of tense silence, though Sarrum was more amused than intimidated.
"I will give you time to consider your decision. Meet me tonight."
The warlord watched the woman go, waiting until she was out of sight to allow the smirk to reach his face.