Chapter 68 [Whitgate—Early the Next Morning]
Sol cleared the eastern horizon briskly on that morning. A gentle breeze rustled the oaks' green canopies. Colors streaked the sky. A few birds sang serenely.
It seemed the perfect day for a homecoming…..
[Citadel Balcony]
Rodor rode through his city observing the preparations for the later festivities. Along the swept up cobblestones, the residents had strung up garlands to beautify the returning couple's path. The royal kitchens, with the assistance of the neighboring kingdoms and Avalon, had restocked its stores in record time for the upcoming feasts on that night and the following one. Minstrels stood ready to serenade the outings with their offerings.
I'm glad for you, Mithian. You finally have a quality match for yourself! He inhaled deeply savoring the potential Merlin had as the next Prince of the realm. His humility will insure that he won't take his position for granted. If only Arthur doesn't try to overly influence him. That is my only concern. He sighed deeply. On some things, you have to trust in Fate to assist you. Camelot has been a worthy ally in all regards. Even in the one misstep, it has presented a more than suitable substitute. With Kay gone, we have to count on Merlin now to be that. His breath caught in his throat at the thought of his fallen son. Kay, I understand your frustration over the usurpations. Something did need to be done. But to exile your sister? And then to be so rash against Meleagant at Camelot? You had nothing to prove to me in that regard!
Rashness, it seemed, had a deep price in those days…on all sides….
The council fortunately enough went along with his request not to meet until after Merlin's ascension and the marriage on the following day. While they had questions and concerns to relay to the sorcerers, he'd drilled the difference between Merlin and Mithian on the one side as opposed to Morgana and Morgause on the other. The fact that the rescue had restored the balance of power without harming a single Nemethian soldier or peasant helped immensely as well….
…and then there was the testimony of Queen Elena, Priestess Freya not to mention the newly installed knights in defense of their character….
I hope that meeting won't be too difficult. Rodor frowned. This is a day of celebration and I'm worried like this?
"Such a heavy expression you wear, King Rodor," Talesin noted as he walked toward him. He bowed respectfully. "Everything goes according to schedule. I have spoken to them concerning the matters we've discussed."
"And has Merlin received his armor?" Rodor queried.
"He has, Great King, and expresses his gratitude over such a wonderous gift," the wizard reported. "He is aware of the need for a controlled entrance into the city." He studied the sunrise carefully. Then he called telepathically, Emrys, Mithian, have you started out yet?
Good morning, Master Talesin, Mithian replied. We should be underway soon. Somebody decided to oversleep slightly. Didn't we, Merlin?
Rub it in, Merlin sighed. I'll be on horseback in a few minutes. Please let King Rodor know, Talesin.
I shall, Emrys. And I'd rather have you delay slightly and look your best for today. Appearances are important as we discussed last night. Have a good ride.
Please let the King know we're looking forward to it, she concluded before the link went silent once again.
Talesin smiled. "They should be underway soon, Sire. Meantime, if I may, perhaps we might have something for the people? Princess Mithian and Merlin both expressed a desire to give something to them on this auspicious occasion."
"Indeed. That sounds like her. Very well. I shall have the kitchen prepare extra bread for the people. We shall distribute coins as well," Rodor agreed easily seeing the merit in the proposal. "And you say Merlin supports it as well?"
"Such generosity is in his nature, King Rodor."
"Yet another reason he is the choice for her hand," Rodor agreed. He saw the townspeople already milling about the square and finding a spot for the upcoming royal arrival. "It should be the quite the affair. Walk with me please."
"Of course," Talesin concurred before following the monarch back toward the palace. "Everything seems in order for tomorrow. Lady Hunith, it seems, can't stop fretting."
"She is an anxious mother on the day before her son's wedding. In addition, she's about to be freed from her status," Rodor assessed. He marveled at how well the negotiations had gone with Reynald on the previous day. Given the new treaty with Queen Annis and Queen Elena, Reynald readily conceded Ealdor to Camelot and confirmed their own pro-magic stance in exchange for a chance to negotiate with Nemeth and Camelot for separate treaties with them as well. "I am glad Reynald of Mercia will not make an issue today. Subinfeudation will not be an issue here."
"Thank our allies for dispensing with that issue. We are blessed indeed with such friends," Talesin declared.
"Blessed indeed. Thank you, Master Talesin. I wanted to ask about this sorcery council. The royal council wishes to hear more about it. With Morgana's recent incursions, they are concerned," Rodor broached changing the topic to another delicate matter.
"That is understandable. And you all shall. With the members in question attending the wedding, we can discuss this matter with your council in person, King Rodor. Perhaps however we might do so in the clearing outside of the walls or in the courtyard? Kilgarrah deserves a chance to speak as well," Talesin advised. "All beings should be represented."
"We shall request a security detail and find a suitable meeting place. I know Kings Arthur and Reynald not to mention Queens Annis, Elena and Guinevere will appreciate the candor in this regard as well," Rodor proposed. "Can you let the resident sorcerers know? What of Sir Mordred? Arthur left him back in Camelot on guard."
"It is a small matter to bring him here for the meeting," Talesin assured the ruler.
Rodor nodded tacitly as they entered the palace. "I am sure Arthur will not have an issue with that." They climbed the stairs up two floors toward the royal apartments. There they found Hunith regarding an emerald gown in awe. "Lady Hunith, good morning."
She set the dress down on the bed, turned and bowed to her host. "King Rodor, good morning to you. Forgive me. I did not hear you come in. This is still so much to take in."
"As I told you in Camelot, you are now part of Nemeth's court and the royal family. As such, you are more than deserving of a bedchamber such as this. Did you have need for anything before the festivities start this afternoon?" Rodor assured her.
"Other than some simple bread and a glass of water, I am fine, Sire. Thank you," she requested humbly. "Is there any word about Merlin and Princess Mithian?"
"I assume they left their camp at first light. With the companions surrounding them, Milady, there will be no trouble. My estimate would be a midday arrival. If it suits you, perhaps we all should have some breakfast?" Talesin looked to Rodor tentatively.
"Indeed. It will be a long wait if we do not. Follow me," Rodor invited while leading them toward the royal dining hall below.
And as such, the arrival was awaited…..