A/N: What's this, more Freylin? Why yes, it is.
Oh, forgot to mention it last time but I probably will not write more for the chapter 26 storyline. You can basically consider it as the original plot of RoI if Errol hadn't helped (for whatever reason). So his healing would have progressed similarly, with him bonding with one or more of the other victims (maybe Errol, maybe not). If you have some burning question about it I'll answer, but don't expect to see more of that here.
"Da!"
A dark-haired barnacle latched onto his right leg as another appeared on his left arm. The arm-anchor wasn't even crawling yet, but that mattered little to a child that was nearly as magic as Merlin had been at that age. Still, magical transport was a new (and problematic) skill.
"Thought you could get away, did you?" Freya came around the corner wearing a predatory grin.
"Of course not, love; Arthur and I were just discussing the new sea trade routes and how best to protect them from pirates." Which is probably what they should have been doing, but honestly he'd had enough of that for the time being. He fancied he was even beginning to think like a sailor.
"In fact, I should get back to it." The warlock shifted and saw Arthur standing just behind Freya, smirking. Merlin widened his eyes, trying to communicate desperation without alerting his wife. Don't just stand there - help me, you clotpole!
"Oh no, you don't. You promised to add the twins' rooms today and you'll do it – magic or no!"
Ah... He'd wondered what he'd said to get his wife to stop sobbing in despair the previous night.
"Of course, dear. Just give me a moment to-"
"Now."
The monarch kept his laughter silent as he watched Merlin being all-but dragged away by Freya, then frowned a bit when he realized he'd either have to return to work or go hunting without his friend.
Well, I guess those orders won't sign themselves...