Nemeth's visit

It had been a week since Arthur and Gwen's date, both of them have been ignoring each other since then, not completely but enough for everybody to forget what happened... Or so they think.

Uther hasn't forgotten. He was still a little worried that his son wouldn't marry someone who would strengthen the kingdom. He already refused to marry lady Elena once... and now that serving girl almost ruined everything...

He needs to make sure that Arthur gets married for the welfare of the kingdom, but his stubborn son is determined to do it for love... So the best approach will be to make sure he meet someone, wait until they become friends and eventually have feelings for each other. It wasn't his style, but he knew that his son was stubborn and wouldn't change his mind about it

That's why Uther have invited Rodor and his daughter Mithian to stay in the castle for a few days. He has been writing Rodor for a while now, mainly about differences about the borders, especially on Gedref's lands, but since Lady Elena incident they have also been talking about Arthur and Mithian, and both have decided that an union between them could be beneficial for both kingdoms.

Obviously they haven't told them, and won't for a while. Arthur and Mithian are both really stubborn so they have chose to wait and let them know each other first, and in a few months they will tell them their plans.

Uther was in the throne room reviewing the latest details of Rodor's visit, when Arthur entered the room.

— Arthur

— Father, do you want to talk to me?

— Yeah. Tomorrow we will have very important visits and I want you to personally ensure that everything is appropriate — said Uther — I don't want mistakes... Everything must be perfect

— Of course, father — Arthur replied — Who will visit us?

— Nemeth... King Rodor and his daughter, Princess Mithian — Uther answered — our conversations have been prospering, and Rodor will come to visit for a few days to discuss some treaties

— I see — said Arthur — I'll see to it that the rooms are prepared.

— Excellent — Uther said. — you are in charge of the feast and other preparations too...

— Of course

— Also, I want you and Morgana to focus your attention on the princess.

— What are you talking about?

— It will be her first time in Camelot, and in the future she will replace Rodor on Nemeth' throne, we must give her a good impression — said Uther — besides, if there is a cordial relationship between you two everything will be easier in the future when both of you lead your respective kingdoms

— Oh, sure — Arthur said — don't worry, I'll talk to Morgana

— Excellent — Uther said, offering him a piece of paper, — here are the details of their arrival, and the people who will accompany them.

— I understand — Arthur said, taking the paper and then bowing his head and leaving for his room.

Coming out of his chambers, with a basket of dirty clothes under his arm, came Rick. During the last week Rick had continued to replace Merlin in his chores, mainly in the most arduous ones. Merlin had little by little begun to perform some of his chores but only those authorized by Gaius (not heavy lifting yet)

— Today's training will be after lunch — Arthur told him before he left.

— I understand sire, I'll be there

— Thanks — Arthur said, entering his room and closing the door behind him.

— Leave that there, we have work to do — Arthur said to Merlin, who was straightening the newly placed sheets on Arthur's bed.

— What did Uther want?

— He want to tell me that tomorrow we will have visitors — Arthur said, sitting in front of his table — King Rodor and his daughter, Princess Mithian, will arrive tomorrow after lunch

— Oh, and why are they coming for?

— To sign some treaties... Apparently the conversations they had between them had a good ending

— That's good... — said Merlin, sitting in front of Arthur — but why is the Princess coming too?

— To form some bonds it seems — said Arthur — she is the heir to the throne of Nemeth, so it would be favorable if there is no enmity between us

— I see — said Merlin — I hope Gwen doesn't mind your friendship with the Princess

— What?

— I hope the Princess is not too pretty, or you'll act like an idiot...

— Hey!

— Well, you don't have a good past... Sophia, Lady Vivian, Lady Elena...

— Hey! With the first two I was bewitched — Arthur responded defensively — and with Lady Elena nothing happened, and Gwen is knows it.

— If you say so...

— Shut up Merlin — Arthur said, looking at the paper his father gave him — we must have rooms ready for them... For Rodor, Mithian, 30 knights and 5 servants who will accompany them

— I can take care of coordinating that — said Merlin, standing up to look for a piece of paper to write on — The rooms in the east wing are the most comfortable at this time of year, the morning sun warms them, but not excessively.

— Well, those will be then — said Arthur — how do you plan to write?

— With magic — replied Merlin, who still had his right arm in a sling.

— Uhm... — Arthur said, watching Merlin "write" a list of rooms that need to be prepared — We should also go talk to Morgana.

— Morgana? Why?

— Uther asked me that Morgana and I take care of entertaining the princess

— Oh... I hope we don't have any incidents

— I hope so... That's why we must be very attentive to everything Morgana does during Nemeth's visit.

— Okay

— Come on, we have to talk to the steward, the cook and the knights, before we talk to her — Arthur said, standing up.

The first stop was the Steward's office

— Sire!

— Good morning — said Arthur — I don't know if my father has told you about the visits we will have tomorrow.

— Yes, a few days ago, but he said that you would be in charge this time... And that you will give me more details later

— Indeed, I have the details of Nemeth's visit. In addition to the King and Princess, they will be accompanied by 30 knights and 5 servants.

— I understand sire

— Merlin will coordinate with the other servants which rooms to prepare, and who they should attend to — Arthur said, while Merlin showed him the list he had written a few minutes ago.

— I see, very good choice of rooms — the Steward responded, faking a smile, while he copied the list that Merlin was showing him. He hated it when others interfered with his work. — I guess we'll also need extra people in the stables to take care of the horses.

— True, there will be quite a few extra horses, so the work in the stables will need to be reinforced — said Arthur

— Of course sire

— Tomorrow afternoon we will have a feast to welcome the new arrivals — Arthur added — I will go down to the kitchens to coordinate everything with Audrey, but we will need several servants available for the occasion

— Of course sire

— If something comes up at the last minute, I will coordinate it directly with Merlin, and he will let you know later.

— Of course, sire — the Steward replied reluctantly.

— Excellent — said Arthur — make sure the castle is impeccable for visitors.

— Of course, sire — the Steward responded, making a small bow as he saw Arthur and Merlin leave his office.

— You didn't leave him too happy — Merlin said when they were walking towards the kitchens.

— I know... I know... but he has always been unbearable... he has always thought he is a big deal just for being the steward — said Arthur, starting to go down the stairs, — and he'd better get used to receiving orders from you...

— Arthur...

— I'm serious, Merlin — replied Arthur — and you'd better get used to giving orders and coordinating these kinds of things in the face of an important visit... When I'm King, you'll have to do it...

Then it was time to talk to Audrey, the head cook. This time as soon as they enter the kitchen, they heard Audrey shout

— What are you doing here? Trying to steal my biscuits again? — said an angry Audrey

— No, he's not here for that — said Arthur

— Sire! — she said alarmed — i'm so sorry, I didn't see you...

When they entered the kitchen, Arthur had turn around inspecting the kitchen, so Audrey didn't realize he was the man standing beside Merlin

— It's okey, But you shouldn't be so distrustful of Merlin, I assure you that he is not coming to steal your food. — Arthur said — besides, you need to learn to work together

— Sire?

— He's my manservant, so I usually ask him to tend to important visitors... and I don't want any trouble...

— Of course sire...

— I asume you know about our visitors that arrive tomorrow — Arthur said

— Yes sire, the Steward told me yesterday

— Excellent, I have more details about them — Arthur said, giving her a paper with the details — we'll receive King Rodor and Princess Mithian, some knights and servants

— I see — she said, reading the paper

— Merlin will coordinate which servants will serve whom — Arthur said — and we'll have a feast tomorrow night

— Yes sire... We are already preparing that

— Great — Arthur said — Merlin will inform you of any changes

— Of course sire — she said with a bow of her head

— That went well — Arthur said between laughs

— You're so funny — Merlin said rolling his eyes — so, what next? The Knights or Morgana?

— The knights... Sir Leon should have gather them already — Arthur said, heading to the armory

Indeed, the knights were waiting for them.

— Good morning — Arthur said — today's training was postponed because I need to prepared a few thing for tomorrow

— Tomorrow?

— Yes, tomorrow we will receive some important visitors from Nemeth — Arthur said — King Rodor and Princess Mithian will arrive after lunch, and with them come also some knights and servants

— I understand sire — Sir Leon said

— We'll have to adjust the patrols... I want two patrols to go meet them and help them get here safely — Arthur said — Sir Leon and Sir Edwin, I want you and your patrols to leave after lunch, that way you can meet them first thing in the morning

— Of course sire — Sir Leon said

— Excellent. — Arthur said — we'll also need to increase the security in the city, we'll have the King and his heir with us, so we need to make sure they're safe

— Yes sire — everyone responded

— I will inform you about the changes in the patrols during our afternoon training — Arthur said — you're dismissed

As soon as they leave the armory and nobody was around, Merlin start talking

— I think you should go talk to Morgana alone...

— Why?

— You don't really need the company of your "manservant" to talk to her — Merlin said —

And I need to start the preparations for tomorrow

— Yeah, you're right

— Besides, we both know that she hates us... But she think that you don't know anything about her true intentions...

— Yeah... It'll be better if I go alone and you start the preparations

That way Arthur went in Morgana's room direction meanwhile Merlin went in search of the servants that will have to prepared the rooms for tomorrow visits

— Enter! — Morgana said when someone knock on her door.— Arthur... This is a surprise — she added with a fake smile after he enter the room

— Morgana — he greeted her. Gwen was doing some chores in the other end of the room, so he wait till she give a small nod to greet her — Guinevere

— To what do I owe the pleasure? — she said, before Gwen could replied

— I come to inform you that tomorrow will arrive some important visitors — Arthur said

— Really? Who is it?

— King Rodor and his daughter Princess Mithian

— Really? That's unusual... — Morgana said — why do they' come? And why is the princess coming too?

— Father said that King Rodor is coming to sign some treaties — Arthur explained — and the Princess is coming to make some ties with the kingdom... She will be Queen some day and it'll be better if we are in good terms

— I see... And why are you here?

— My father want us both to entertain the Princess

— Both? At least he realizes you're not funny enough to keep her happy... — she said with a grin — it seems like you need my help to keep the future queen as your ally

— I wouldn't put it that way... But yes, I need your help... — Arthur said — I don't know her, so I don't know what she would like to do...

— Oh, come on... the only thing you like to do is go hunting... And I doubt she would like something like that

— Is not the only thing I do! —Arthur said defensively.

Gwen try not to laugh, but Arthur could clearly hear her muffled giggles

— Really? Tell me just one other thing you like to do — Morgana said — fight with the knights and mistreat servants don't count

— I don't mistreat the servants — Arthur said indignantly

— Not anymore... But you used to do it all the time

— You would help with the princess or not? — asked Arthur trying to change the topic, it was going dangerously in Merlin direction

— Yes, I'll help — Morgana said, noticing the change in Arthur's mood — we'll have a feast tomorrow I asume?

— It's the plan...

— I see... it shouldn't be that difficult to find something to do during those days

— I also need Gwen's help... in case the princess didn't bring her own maid — Arthur said

— And for how long they will stay?

— Just for three days — Arthur said

— Fine then...

— Great, then I see you tomorrow — Arthur said, heading to the door

Arthur then went straight to his room to modify the patrols

Near an hour later, Rick entered the room with a tray

— Here it is the lunch, sire — Rick said, arranging the plates in the table

— Great, thanks — Arthur said from his desk — have you seen Merlin?

— Yes, he was talking with some servants. He said he'll be here in a few minutes

— Great — Arthur said, approaching the table — I asume you hear about our tomorrow's visitors

— Yes, Merlin informed us

— Great — Arthur said starting to eat his lunch — I'll need you to serve me during the fest, since Merlin won't be able to do it

— Sure sire, no problem — Rick said — Merlin had already told me that

— Excellent — Arthur said — I also need you to attend to King Rodor in case he don't bring his own servant

— Oh, alright... But, what about you sire?

— I can manage with Merlin in the meantime... — Arthur said — besides is more important that he's well taken care of

— Yes sire — Rick said before giving a little bow and then leaving the room

Just a few minutes later Merlin entered the room and sat in front of Arthur to eat his lunch

— Everything is ready? — Arthur asked

— Not yet, but everyone knows what they need to do before they arrive and while they are here

— Great

— How did it go with Morgana?

— Fine... She agreed to help entertain the Princess — Arthur said

— Without protest? Do you think she will try something?

— I don't know... — Arthur said — and I really hope not .. or our relationship with Nemeth won't be as good as we all expect

— Did you modify the patrols?

— Yes, I'm almost finish with that

After lunch Merlin and Arthur make the last changes to the patrols and then went to the courtyard to train with the knights where Rick was waiting for them

During training, since Rick was helping Arthur, Merlin went to the stables to confirm if the Steward had already inform them about the important visit they will have tomorrow.

When he return to the courtyard, the training was ending, so he tell a couple of servants to prepare Arthur bath

— Let's go to the armory — Arthur said to the knights while Rick help him out of his armour

In there Arthur told them about the changes in the patrols and the security during Nemeth's visit

Now Arthur was walking to the council room to talk to his father.

After the talk in the armory he had take a quick bath, change his clothes and went to talk to the king to inform him about the preparations for tomorrow

— Ah, Arthur.. come in — Uther said, letting aside some documents he was reading — how are the preparations for tomorrow going?

— Very well... The rooms are prepared, the servants are inform of their duties, the stables are ready and the kitchen is preparing everything for the feast

— Excellent!

— I also make some arrangements to the patrols... two are on their way now to meet them halfway, and then escort them to the castle — Arthur said — and we will increase the security in the citadel an lower town these days

— Perfect — said Uther — as I told you before, I want you to entertain the Princess, but I also want your presence during at least one of our meetings... Is important you learn how those conversations goes

— Of course father

— Great, you can go — Uther said, dismissing him

When Arthur came back to his chambers, he found Merlin going through his closet

— What are you doing?

— Looking for your outfit for tomorrow — Merlin said — I wasn't sure if your formal clothes were clean or not

— You don't have to do that — Arthur said

— Actually, I do... — Merlin said — I still have to pretend to be your manservant... Rick is doing most of my chores for now, so is really no problem if I do this

— Alright... But don't forget to prepared your own clothes — said Arthur — You should use the darker boots

— Why? I don't need to impress the Princess

— Of course you do, you idiot — Arthur said — you are a Prince of Camelot

— She doesn't know that

— But she will eventually, and you don't want her first impresión of you being a bad one — Arthur said, inspecting the clothes Merlin had left on the bed

— I'm not sure how a pair of boots can do that

— Clotpole — Arthur said

— That's my word!

— And suits you perfectly — Arthur said with a smile — ...No, just the boots won't make a difference, but if you wear all the formal attire Gwen made for you, it will...

— Alright... But I'll still be a manservant... She probably won't even notice me... I think you're overthinking this

Before Arthur could answer, their conversation was interrupted by a knocking on the door, a few seconds later Rick entered with their dinner

That night, under cover of the darkness of night, Morgana met with Morgause in the forest surrounding the castle.

— Sister — Morgause said when she saw Morgana arrive at their meeting place — what happened? What was so important that you need to see me?

— Nothing bad happened... — Morgana said — Camelot will have some important visitors tomorrow

— Interesting... Who?

— King Rodor and Princess Mithian of Nemeth — Morgana said — And Uther want me and Arthur to entertain her... She'll be queen one day, and he want her as a ally for Arthur

— I see... I hate to say this, but for once Uther might be right

— What?!

— She could be a great ally in the future... For you

— Oh...

— When you'll take you're rightful place on Camelot throne, some people might not be alright with it, so having an ally could be beneficial

— I agree, but she won't be Queen any time soon

— That can be arranged

— You plan to kill Rodor?

— No, no yet at least... — Morgause said — You need to gain their trust first

— And we can blame Uther or Arthur for it...

— Of course...

— I like this plan — Morgana said with a smile

The next morning the princes woke up early, there was much to do before Nemeth's entourage arrived.

Arthur was due to meet with the knights right after breakfast to go over the latest details on the city's security, right after that he had a council meeting with his father and some boring nobles. He will have to hurry to catch lunch and take a bath before the visitors arrive.

Merlin, for his part, after accompanying Arthur to talk to the knights, had a lot of other things to do.

First Merlin go check the rooms. The check in each room includes making sure everything was spotlessly clean, that every fireplace was lit, and that each room has a plate of fruit and biscuits in case they want to eat something before the feast.

After that, it was time to go talk to the servants who has a task assigned for today. Almost every servant in the castle has something to do today... Some of them were assigned to serve the visiting knights, help in the kitchens, help during the feast, clean the castle, prepared the great hall for the feast, etc... So he just want to make sure that they didn't forget anything

After that he went to talk to Audrey (much to her dislike), to know how the feast food preparations were going, and in case she needs more help, ask some servants to come help her

Then he went to see Gaius. He talked to him yesterday afternoon to see if he needed help gathering herbs or with anything else... Gaius didn't need help with that, but Merlin had promised to come back today to help with some books he needed from the top shelf (with magic, obviously).. In recent weeks Gregory, the son of one of the kitchen maids, has been helping him, gathering and grinding herbs, and even delivering some medicine bottles inside the castle, but he is still young so he doesn't help him while he is treating the patients. Merlin wasn't angry at Gaius anymore, but he was still a little hurt by all the lies... So he was glad that there hadn't been any serious illnesses in the city lately that will required his assitance, but he would help Gaius if necessary without hesitation.

— Good morning Gaius — Merlin said when he entered the room

— Good morning my boy — Gaius responded, without looking up from the multiple ingredients he was mixing in a bowl.

— What are you doing?

— I'm preparing some tonics for our visits... Surely more than one will come with a sore body from the trip and the night they had to spend in the forest — Gaius explained — this will make them feel better

— Oh...

— Gregory just brought me the last ingredients — Gaius said, pointing to some small white flowers — they must be freshly cut to be useful.

— I see... And where is Gregory? — Merlin asked.

— I imagine he is on his way to his house — said Gaius — his mother wants him out of the castle during Nemeth's visit... she doesn't want Uther to have any excuse to get angry with his family.

— A wise decision — said Merlin — So what do you want me to help you with?

— I need some books from up there — Gaius said, pointing to the highest shelf — Gregory is still very small... And I don't want to repeat the incident from the last time I went up there

— Okay...

Just a few minutes later the three books Gaius had pointed out were on the table.

— Thank you Merlin — said Gaius, opening one of the books — How are the preparations going?

— Pretty good... Everything is almost ready, we just need to know if the King and Princess bring their personal servants... But we won't know until they arrive

— I see... I'm glad Arthur put you in charge... You've done a very good job organizing everything.

— Arthur has insisted on that... Especially with the fact that I gives orders to everyone

— He's making you practice...

— That's what he says... But I don't know if the others are so enthusiastic about it... — Merlin responded — especially the steward... He's furious that I'm getting into his work... And I really don't blame him

— Perhaps disrespect the Steward was a bit exaggerated on Arthur's part — said Gaius — but he is right about making you practice certain things... In the future you will be in charge of doing all this and much more

— I know... He has me every day studying one of the stupid books he had to read with his tutors... Or analyzing what was said during a council meeting... it's extremely boring, but I understand it... — Merlin said in an exhausted tone — but making the castle staff hate me... I don't think is a good strategy...

— What are you talking about? Who hates you?

— The steward...

— He hates everyone Merlin...

— It's true...

— Has anyone else told you something?

— No... Not yet... But I'm not sure everyone feels comfortable receiving orders from me... I'm a servant like them...

— You are not

— But they don't know! — Merlin responded — ...and I wouldn't be surprised if they started to notice Arthur's "favoritism."

— Favoritism?

— Rick has been bringing my food to Arthur's room every day...

— Is Rick upset about that?

— No... he, In fact, does it very willingly...

— So?

— I don't know... It was strange enough for everyone that I moved to Arthur's room, and just a few days later because of my arm Rick had to replace me in my duties... And despite not being working my food is bring to Arthur's room?... Doesn't that seem strange to you?

— If you put it like that... I think so... — Gaius said

— Arthur is convinced that he must "make it up" for everything I have experienced so far...

— Hum? — Gaius asked, raising one of his eyebrows.

— He feels guilty that I still have to be a servant... About how badly he treated me before... That Uther hates me... That I can't use my magic freely... — Merlin said, passing his hands over his messy hair — He makes me eat loads, he forces me to take breaks... And he makes Rick do most of my chores

— I don't think that's so terrible.

— No, it's not... But I think sometimes he exaggerates a little, and if he doesn't calm down everyone will begin to suspect that something strange is happening... — said Merlin — Gwen already suspects that something is happening... since Arthur ordered her a dozen of outfits for me, Gwen looks at us strangely... As if trying to figure out what we're up to

— I see... In that case you should talk to him... Suspicions may reach Uther's ears

— I've tried, but he doesn't listen to me...

— I'll talk to him as soon as I can.

— Thank you, Gaius — Merlin said standing up — sorry, but I have to go... I still have to do a few things before lunch

— Sure, thanks for the help

— Oh, I forgot... Can I stop using the sling now?

— Let me check that arm before I decide — Gaius said, standing up to examine Merlin's arm. — Does it hurt if I move it like that? — he asked as he moved Merlin's arm in different directions.

— No...

— What if I do this? — Gaius asked, this time massaging the muscle in the area near the wound.

— A bit...

— I see... It has been healing quite well, at least the skin is already healed, the only thing left is for the muscle to regain strength — Gaius said — so you can now take off the sling and start using that hand, but still without doing any heavy lifting

— I understand, thanks Gaius! — Merlin said, quickly leaving the room before Gaius could change his mind.

After taking a look around the stables, Merlin climbed one of the highest parapets of the castle. From it, not only he could observe the city, but he could also concentrate and try to feel the world around him.

He was worried about what Morgana might be up to... he didn't want something so bad to happen that he would have to poison someone again.

He usually sense when dark magic is being used near him, but usually he sensed it too late... When Camelot was already under attack... So this time he would be alert, he wouldn't let Morgana or Morgause ruin Nemeth's visit.

Arthur was finally walking towards his chambers. Today's council had been particularly tedious... Aside from the usual topics of conversation, Uther had explained to the council members his conversations with Rodor and the treaties he hoped to sign during his visit.

When he arrived at his room he found that Merlin was arranging the dishes on the table, while Rick prepared the bathtub.

— Sire — Rick greeted — is it okay if I start bringing the water?

Before answering Arthur looked out the window to see the position of the sun.

— Not yet, we have a few minutes to spare — Arthur said, sitting at the table — in about 15 more minutes.

— No problem, sire — Rick said before leaving.

— How was the council? — Merlin asked, sitting down in front of Arthur.

— Very boring — Arthur replied, starting to eat — Is everything ready?

— Yes, everything is ready — Merlin responded — the rooms are ready, the great hall is being decorated for tonight's feast, and when I came back here they were putting the finishing touches on the stair at the main entrance.

— Excellent — replied Arthur, — they should arrive in about two more hours...

— Have you seen Morgana today? — Merlin interrupted.

— No, why?

— Nothing... I'm just a little worried that she's up to something.

— Me too... Have you seen anything suspicious?

— No, nothing yet... In fact I went up to the highest parapet to see if I could sense some kind of dark magic nearby, and nothing...

— Why up there?

— I don't know... It's a lonely place... I can concentrate easily

— Ok... — Arthur said. These last few weeks he had talked a lot with Merlin about his magic, but there were still things that he couldn't fully understand.

At that moment there was a knock on the door, it was Rick along with two other servants, who were bringing buckets of water for the bathtub. Merlin immediately stood up and began searching for Arthur's clothes that he had selected the night before, after all, just as he had told Gaius a while ago, if things didn't go back to normal soon everyone would suspect Arthur's favoritism.

Arthur looked at Merlin strangely, but didn't say anything, just continued eating in silence while Rick heated the water for the bath. As soon as he finished eating he stood up and walked over to Rick.

— Is it ready? — Arthur asked.

— Almost ready sire — Rick responded, — I just need to heat one more bucket.

— In that case you can leave now, Merlin will help me — said Arthur — use these minutes to go eat something, you probably won't have time to do so once you have to attend to King Rodor

— Oh, of course, sire. Thank you, — Rick said, approaching the table to remove Arthur's empty plate.

— I'll expect you on time at the main staircase later — Arthur told him.

— Of course, sire — Rick said before leaving the room.

As soon as Rick left the room Arthur began to take off his boots and belt, the water was almost ready.

— You can finish eating while I bathe — said Arthur, inspecting the bucket of water that was on the fire — Then will be your turn to bathe.

— Okay — Merlin said, leaving Arthur's clothes hanging on the dressing screen, and then sitting back down at the table.

NoAfter pouring the last bucket of hot water into the bathtub, Arthur went behind the dressing screen to finish undressing.

— Have you already selected your clothes for today? — Arthur asked, as he got into the water

— Yes, I have it in my room — Merlin replied.

After finishing eating, and while Arthur was still in the bathtub, Merlin went to his room to prepare his own bathtub and ready the clothes he would put on shortly.

Arthur was getting out of the bathtub when there was some commotion downstairs in the courtyard. Merlin went to the window to see what was happening. Sir Edwin came at a full gallop approaching the palace, when he reached the staircase he calmly descended and approached one of the guards who was on one side of the main door, who after listening to Sir Edwin's brief message nodded and took his trumpet, to give a strong blow and play a couple of notes, was the signal that the visitors would arrive in just half an hour

— They'll arrive sooner — said Arthur, hastily beginning to dress — You'd better take a bath here, there's no time to carry the water to your room.

— Okay, I'll go get my things — Merlin said.

— No... start with the spells, I'll bring them to you — Arthur said, passing his head through the hole in his red shirt.

— Okay... — Merlin responded, while he began to perform the spells to clean and reheat the water.

Arthur quickly put on his boots, and went to Merlin's room in search of his things. Merlin had left everything ready at the foot of the bed, so it wasn't difficult for Arthur to find what he was looking for.

Among the outfits that Gwen had made for him, was his "formal outfit", which consisted of dark brown pants (almost the same color as the elegant boots he had bought him) that matched a jacket, along with a blue shirt that made Merlin's eyes stand out (or so Gwen had said) and a scarf of a darker blue tone, in addition to this it was the belt and the dagger that he had given him. He hadn't seen Merlin in that outfit yet, but he trusted Gwen's experience in the matter.

— Here's everything — said Arthur — leaving Merlin's things behind the dressing screen, and then finishing getting ready.

— Thank you — Merlin said, as he grabbed the towel so he could get out of the bathtub.

A few minutes later, Merlin came out from behind the dressing screen while he finished putting on his jacket, Arthur looked up and examined his brother.

— Gwen is a very good seamstress — said Arthur, approaching Merlin.

— Yes... The clothes are very comfortable — Merlin said, placing the neckerchief on his neck — Are you ready?

— Almost... I only need my sword, my coronet and the cape

— Great, give me a minute and I'll help you with that — Merlin said, fastening his belt.

Merlin approached the cabinet where Arthur's crowns were stored, the current coronet and the circlet he used before being proclaimed crown prince. Arthur only wore his coronet for official events, unlike Uther who liked to wear his royal crown all the time.

Merlin gently took the coronet and approached Arthur so he could place it on his head. Unlike what one might think, putting on a crown yourself was not that simple, it required help from another person to make sure it was properly centered without affecting the hairstyle too much.

— Wait — Arthur said. As soon as Merlin placed the coronet on his head, Arthur approached the cabinet.

— Arthur, what are you doing...

— Stay still

— Why? What... — Merlin asked when he realized that Arthur was stretching his hands towards his head, he added — What are you doing?

— Just stay still... I want to see how it looks on you.

— Arthur, we don't have time for that, they're about to arrive... — said Merlin, who with a smile added — besides, it probably won't fit me, your head is much bigger than mine.

— Stay still, it'll only take a minute — Arthur said, ignoring Merlin's joke and placing the circlet on Merlin's head.

— Haha, I told you it would be too big for me — said Merlin triumphantly.

The circlet was a little loose on Merlin's head, but Merlin's mop of hair managed to keep it from falling out.

— Shut up — said Arthur, who took Merlin by the shoulders to turn him around so that he could see himself in the mirror on his closet door.

The mirror's reflection surprised both princes

— Now I perfectly understand the saying "they are dressed like twins" — said Merlin jokingly

Arthur, like Merlin, was also wearing one of his formal outfits... Which in general terms was very similar to Merlin's, the only difference was the color of the shirt which was dark red (and the cuality of the materials, of course), and that he did not wear a neckerchief obviously.

Seeing the reflection, standing next to each other, with similar outfits, and both wearing crowns... You could really see the resemblance between them, obviously they were not identical twins, but there was no doubt that they were brothers

— Idiot — Arthur said, slapping him on the back of the head.

— Do you think people notice it?

— I don't think so... No one has suspected anything in all these years — Arthur responded, taking the circlet from Merlin head — not even us...

— But I've never worn anything so elegant — Merlin said, pointing to his clothes.

— It's true, your previous clothes made it impossible to think that you were anything other than a servant — Arthur said, leaving the circlet in its place — even so, I don't think they would notice... You are still in your role as a servant, and no one knows that there is another prince... they should not suspect anything

— If you say so — Merlin said, approaching the bed where he had left Arthur's cape — let's go, or we'll be late

— Won't you put on your sling? — Arthur asked.

— No... Gaius said I can take it off if I don't make any heavy lifting with it — Merlin responded — plus it would ruin the formal outfit.

— It's true — Arthur said, leaving his room.

Luckily they weren't late. They reached the main staircase at the same time that Uther, Morgana and Gwen. The Knights and Rick were already there.

— Excellent — said Uther — they must be about to arrive.

Around him were several members of the court and a large number of knights, all waiting for the visitors.

Just a few minutes later the trumpets announced the arrival of the visitors. Leading the delegation was Sir León, along with two other knights, who, as they approached the entrance, stood aside, leaving free pass for who came behind them; behind them came King Rodor and at his side Princess Mithian, flanked by two knights on each side and three behind them; Following them came the rest of the delegation; Closing the caravan came the rest of Camelot's knoghts who had gone to meet them the day before.

When Rodor and Mithian were in front of the great staircase, they stopped their horses, and so did all those who came after them. The first to dismount was King Rodor, who then approached to help his daughter.

King Rodor was wearing a simple but elegant outfit (suitable for travel), very similar to Uther's, but in shades of blue, the colors of Nemeth. Princess Mithian for her part wore a beautiful light blue dress with silver threads, which it combined perfectly with her dark blue cape. All the knights and the King wore a similar dark blue cape, all had the emblem of the kingdom embroidered with silver threads.

King Rodor offered his arm to his daughter, and together they began to walk towards the great staircase, they had only taken two steps, when Uther and Arthur came out to meet them.

— King Rodor... Welcome to Camelot — Uther said out loud so that everyone present could hear him.

— Thank you for the invitation King Uther — Rodor said politely — and for this great welcome... I present to you my daughter, Princess Mithian

— Thank you for the invitation — she said, bowing her head slightly.— And this is my son, Prince Arthur — said Uther.

— I hope that your stay here is pleasant — Arthur said politely, — and that we can reach agreements that strengthen the friendship between our kingdoms.

— Of course — Rodor replied.

— Excellent, let's get inside then — Uther said, beginning to guide the guests into the castle. Upon reaching the top of the stairs, Uther stopped in front of Morgana — this is Lady Morgana, my ward.

— Welcome to Camelot — said Morgana with one of her best good girl smiles.

— I suppose you are a little tired from the trip — said Uther — Arthur will show you your rooms so you can freshen up and rest a little before tonight's feast.

With this last sentence, Uther gave a small courtesy with his head to his guests and retired into the castle with Morgana by his side. The rest of the court and knights took this as a sign, and followed their king's example, quickly vacating the staircase.

— I'll show you your rooms — Arthur said as soon as his father entered the castle — and those of the rest of your men.

— Excellent — said Rodor — lead the way

Arthur began to walk into the castle, for the guests to follow him. He had taken only two steps, when Merlin silently joined the group.

— This is Merlin — Arthur said to Rodor and Mithian — my manservant

Merlin said nothing, but bowed respectfully to both of them.

— He was in charge of coordinating the preparation of your rooms — Arthur explained — and he will be in charge throughout your visit to see that you are comfortable... Anything you need, just ask him, and he will coordinate with the other servants.

— I understand — Rodor said, somewhat surprised by Arthur's explanation.

Mithian didn't say anything, she just examined the servant.

— Did you bring your personal manservant and maiden?

— No... — answered Rodor

— Don't worry, our best servants will be attending you — said Arthur

— Thanks...

— said Mithian

— This hallway leads to the rooms where your knights will stay — said Arthur — Merlin...

— This is George, and he is in charge of this area — said Merlin — anything your knights need they can asked him... Or directly to me

— This way, my lord's — George said, leading the knights down the hallway.

Almost all of the knights followed George, except for five, who remained stoic behind their king.

— They are part of our escort — Rodor clarified.

— Of course — said Arthur, who continued walking

They turned left, and in the entrance of the new hallway where the rooms that had been prepared for them, were Gwen and Rick waiting for them

— This is Rick, King Rodor he will be at your service these days — said Arthur — normally Merlin would attend to you, but he is recovering from an injury, and Gaius, our physician, has not yet given him permission to resume all his duties.

— Oh, are you okay? — Rodor asked Merlin

— Yes your majesty, much better now, thanks for asking

— Rick will take his place, he has been attending to me for the last few weeks — Arthur said — and I can assure you that he is one of our best servants.

— That's reassuring

— And this is Gwen, she is Lady Morgana's maid, and she will attend to you during these days Princess Mithian — said Arthur — she is also one of our best servants

— Thank you — said the Princess.

— ...Merlin will show you your rooms, I'm afraid I have to go attend to some matters and I won't be able to accompany you the rest of the way.

— No problem — said Rodor — it seems we are in very good hands

— The best ones — said Arthur — I'll see you at the fest.

Merlin only waited a few seconds before continue walking. When they reached the end of the hallway they found a huge double door, which Merlin opened to let the guests through.

— This is one of the wings for royal visits — Merlin explained, showing a large room with a small table, several armchairs and a splendid fireplace.

— The room on the left is yours, Your Majesty — Merlin said to Rodor, indicating the door that was on the left side of the room — and right in front of it is yours, Princess.

Hearing Merlin's words, Nemeth's servants (who had been silently following them the entire time), began to carry the luggage to the respective rooms.

— Here and in the rooms you will find fruits and biscuits in case you want to eat something before the feast — Merlin said with a smile — and of course, if you want anything else, don't hesitate to ask.

— We will do it, thank you — said Rodor.

— Gaius, has prepared some tonics in case anyone needs its help to recover from the trip — Merlin said, looking especially at the princess — or he can help with any other ailment you have.

— I feel very good — Mithian said with a smile — but thank you very much for the offer

Merlin smiled back and gave a subtle bow before speaking again.

— I'll leave, so you can settle in and rest before the fest — Merlin said, bowing to both of them before turning around and leaving.

After leaving Rodor and Mithian, Arthur went to meet with Sir Leon and the other knights who escorted the newcomers. He wanted to know if there had been any incidents during their tripe trough the forest.

Later he met with the knights and guards in charge of the various patrols that will patrol the city these days. In reality, the extra security in the city had started the previous afternoon, but Arthur wanted periodic reports on how everything was going.

It was five in the afternoon when Merlin returned to Arthur's room.

— You took a while to come back — Arthur told him when he saw him enter.

Arthur had returned to his room a while ago, and he had been wondering where the hell Merlin was.

— You do realize that preparing a feast involves a lot of work, right? — Merlin asked sarcastically — Or did you think that the hall and the food prepared themselves?

— No, of course not — answered Arthur — ...but we have plenty of servants for that... You didn't have to do everything by yourself

Merlin stared at him, open-mouthed; it's been a while since he heard a comment like that from Arthur

— You're a Prat! — said Merlin, annoyed — of course I didn't do everything by myself... In fact, I did very little compared to everyone else! — seeing that Arthur was looking at him without really understanding what he meant, he added — there are a lot of tables and chairs to be brought to the great hall... A lot of plates, cutlery and cups... Not to mention that they have to be polished before being taken there... Tablecloths, candlesticks and other decorations have to be brought... The whole hall has to be decorated!

— Ok, I understand...

— The tablecloths have to be ironed as well as the napkins... — continued Merlin, ignoring Arthur — there are thousands of candles to be placed...

And there's still all that needs to be done in the kitchens!

— Ok, ok... I get it...

— No, you don't understand... — said Merlin — in the kitchens, apart from preparing a lot of food in a short time, you have to prepare everything so it looks good... Polish trays and jugs... Prepare the jugs of water and wine — said Merlin — prepare the trays with the food to share that will be left on the tables, and the individual plates...

— Yeah... I take back what I said... — said Arthur, trying to stop Merlin

— Even though there are many servants to do the work, everything had to be done in a hurry... — said Merlin — we only found out about the visit yesterday!

— That's true... — Arthur said finally — I'm sorry... Remember to thank everyone for me later

— I will — Merlin said with a smile

— I assume everything is ready then... Since you're here — Arthur said

— Yes, almost everything... There are only a few details missing in the kitchen... But Audrey had everything under control

— I have no doubt — Arthur said — ...have you felt any dark magic?

— No, nothing... Yet — Merlin said — But the logical thing would be for her to take the opportunity to do something... Right?

— I think so... — Arthur answered — I doubt she has any grudge against Nemeth, but she could surely cause a war if she makes it look like the attack was provoked by Camelot

— Yeah... — Merlin said — well... I think we won't sleep peacefully for a couple of days

— At least we'll be able to keep an eye on her during the day — Arthur said — at least while we try to entertain the Princess

— Have you thought about what to do to entertain her?

— I have a couple of ideas — Arthur replied, absentmindedly fiddling with a pen on his desk as he looked out the window

— So you haven't thought of anything — Merlin replied with a smile

— Shut up Merlin

The feast had started a few minutes ago, all the guests were enjoying the delicious food that Audrey had prepared. At the main table were Uther, Arthur and Morgana, accompanied by King Rodor and Princess Mithian; serving the table were Gwen, Rick and Uther's personal servant.

Since Gaius had not yet given Merlin permission to return to his normal activities, he was helping other servants to perform simpler tasks around the room, but without missing a detail of what was happening at the main table... If Morgana was going to do something, he wanted to detect it as soon as possible

— We are very pleased to have you here — Uther said ceremoniously

— How did you like Camelot, Princess?

— The little I've seen so far has seemed very beautiful to me, my lord — answered Mithian

— Soon you will be able to see much more — said Uther — Arthur and Morgana will keep you company these days, and I'm sure they have various activities planned

— Really? Like what? — she asked looking at Arthur and Morgana

— Tomorrow morning the market will be set up in the citadel — answered Morgana before Arthur could answer — I was hoping you could accompany me, I want to see some new fabrics for some dresses

— Of course, I would love to — answered the Princess — perhaps I'll find something for myself too

— Arthur, will you accompany them? — said Uther. He doubted that Arthur would want to go shopping with Morgana, but he needed him to share with Mithian as much as possible

— I don't think so... — answered Arthur — I had thought that we would all go horseback riding in the forest surrounding the castle, and then end up in a picnic for lunch...

— Oh! That sounds very entertaining — said the Princess enthusiastically

— The day after tomorrow is the Festival of Ostara. And it is Tradition in Camelot to have a hunt that day — Arthur explained — I must go hunting, but I thought maybe Morgana could give you a tour of the city that day.. some of our buildings go back many centuries

— Oh, yes... You're right Arthur — said Uther — I had forgotten about the hunt

— That sounds just as entertaining — said Mithian — I love hunting

— You do?

— Of course! Maybe we can have the picnic after going to the market... — said Mithian — And the next day go hunting

— Of course — answered Morgana with a big smile (no one knows if it was sincere or fake) — we can eat something light before leaving and then eat a little more at the picnic

— Great — said Uther — I think you already have everything planned for tomorrow

The rest of the feast passed quickly and without anything that caught Merlin's attention. As plates of food came and went, various nobles approached the main table to greet the guests of honor.

Morgana kept her smile throughout the evening, chatting animatedly with the princess and her father. To Merlin, this was suspicious; Morgana seemed too comfortable with the visitors.

Soon the banquet attendees began to leave, including the guests of honor.

Arthur waited for Rodor and Mithian to leave before doing the same. As soon as Merlin saw Arthur get up from the table, he silently followed him out of the great hall.

— How was dinner? — Merlin asked as he entered Arthur's room, closing the door behind him — Did Morgana say something suspicious?

— No... She was smiling and chatting animatedly all night — answered Arthur — for a moment I even forgot that she is Morgause's accomplice and that she wants to kill us all

— I know... I could see her smile from the other side of the room — answered Merlin, sitting on Arthur's bed — It's suspicious, right?

— Yes... tomorrow we will have to keep a good eye on her

— Have you decided what you will do tomorrow?

— Yes... In the morning she will accompany Morgana to the market — answered Arthur — then we will all go horseback riding and have a picnic in the forest.

— So for the whole morning they will be alone? — asked Merlin worriedly

— I suppose Gwen will be with them...

— It would be suspicious if I followed them, right?

— Yes, and Morgana would notice, which would not be good... — answered Arthur — Don't you have a cloak with which you can make yourself invisible or something?

— Of course not! Don't be ridiculous, there is no such thing

— Well, it should... It would be very useful in cases like this

— Yes, that's true — Merlin replied thoughtfully — What will you do while they go shopping?

— We will go to the negotiations with Nemeth

Uther had told Arthur that he expected him to attend the morning negotiations with Nemeth, as Mithian would be busy with Morgana. Uther, in his eagerness to prepare Arthur, always tried to have him present at negotiations and treaty signings with other kingdoms

— We?

— That's right, if I have to go, you too — said Arthur — and you must learn how negotiations work

— But I'll die of boredom!

— Be thankful that we won't be doing that all day

The next morning the princes got up early, negotiations began after breakfast, and Merlin had to get everything ready for the ride before heading to the council room

Merlin met Gwen as he left the kitchens with the breakfast tray for him and Arthur, she was picking up Princess Mithian's breakfast

— Hello Gwen

— Hello Merlin, how's your arm?

— Much better...

— Gaius already gave you permission to carry heavy breakfast trays? — Gwen asked with a smile

— No, not yet... So don't mention it — Merlin answered with a smile as well

The truth was that his arm still hurt a little when he tried to lift the heavy tray, but thanks to a simple spell the tray was much lighter now

— Did you hear that we're going on a picnic later? — Merlin asked him

— Yes, I heard about it last night during the feast — Gwen answered — Do you need me to help you with the preparations?

— I went to talk to the servants at the stables before coming here, and I already told the girls in the kitchen that we'll need light lunches and things for the picnic — Merlin answered — ...but could you help me prepare the things we should bring? Blankets, plates and food...

— Sure, as soon as we get back from the market I'll see that everything is ready — Gwen answered — what will you and Arthur do during the morning?

— Arthur forced me to accompany him to the negotiations with Nemeth — Merlin answered — so if we don't show up to go to the picnic, it's because we're died of boredom

— Hahaha... I'll keep that in mind

— I have to go, or we'll be late and Uther will blame me

— Oh, right... Go...

While Arthur and Merlin listened to the tedious conversations to define the details of the treaties to be signed with Nemeth, Morgana and Gwen took Princess Mithian for a walk through the market.

Today there were many sellers of fabrics and jewelry, so it was a very productive walk.

— That last fabric you bought is very beautiful — Morgana said to Mithian as they walked back to the castle — I'm sure the dress you'll have made will look great on you, that color suits you very well

— Oh, thank you — the princess answered with a smile — ...it's very pretty fabric, thank you for suggesting it Gwen... The one you bought is also very beautiful Morgana

— I know! Gwen always helps me choose the best fabrics... — said Morgana with a (fake?) smile — plus, she's very good at sewing

— Oh, thank you Gwen — said the Princess to Gwen, who was a few steps behind carrying what they had bought

— It was nothing my lady — answered Gwen — although I think we should hurry a little... We must meet Prince Arthur in an hour

— Let's leave then — said Morgana — Did you prepare something light for lunch?

— Yes, I left it in the kitchen... They must have already taken it to the rooms — answered Gwen

— Excellent

— Ugh! That was horrible! — said Merlin, as he closed the door to Arthur's room — that was extremely boring... I don't know how they expect to survive three days of meetings like that

— Well, it's not three full days...

— Oh, sorry... Two and a half days of tedious conversations — said Merlin sarcastically approaching the table where there was a tray with food

In the morning Merlin had left a message for someone to bring a tray with something light to eat for Arthur, obviously he would eat from there too

— I already told you... You better get used to it — said Arthur, sitting at the table to eat a little before going to the picnic with Morgana and the Princess — when I am king you will have to attend all the council meetings and treaty talks

— Why?... You will be the king, not me... — answered Merlin while eating — it makes no sense that I should go

— Of course you do — answered Arthur — ... Until I have a son, you are the next heir... So you will have all kinds of royal duties

— Mphf — grumbled Merlin

— And even if I already have a son, you will still have to attend... — repeated Arthur — as brother of the king, and as next in the line of succession after my son

— Wouldn't Gwen be next?

— No, she would be a queen consort... She would have no right to the throne...

— And when will you ask her to marry you? — Merlin asked casually, noticing that Arthur had answered without realizing it

— What?!?!

— Hahaha admit it... You'd like Gwen to be your queen... — Merlin replied between laughs

— Shut up Merlin!! — Arthur shouted angrily

— Sorry, there's no time for your tantrums... — Merlin said standing up — we must go or we'll be late — approaching the door he added — you don't want to keep Gwen waiting

Between laughs Merlin ran out of the room, dodging a cup that Arthur had thrown at him

— MERLIN!

When Arthur arrived at the courtyard, Merlin and Gwen were adjusting the picnic things on their horses, while Morgana and Mithian were chatting animatedly next to them

— You are late — Morgana told him as soon as she saw him approach

— No, I'm just in time — Arthur replied

— We've been waiting for you for several minutes — Morgana replied, crossing her arms

— You guys got here early...

— Ugh... As always, it's impossible to talk to you — Morgana said, turning to look at the Princess and adding — I told you...

Princess Mithian didn't answer, she simply let out a knowing giggle upon hearing Morgana's comment

— What? What have you been telling her?

— Oh, nothing... Don't worry... — said Morgana, who with a giggle added — Just the truth...

— Don't worry my lord, it's only been good things — Mithian added with a smile

Arthur, a little unsure, looked at Gwen in search of a more sincere answer. Gwen gave him a hidden smile and subtly nodded her head. More calmly, Arthur said

— In that case, if everything is ready... — he looked at Merlin and Gwen to check — let's get going, or the afternoon will be too short for us

The caravan of young people was already riding through the forest. Arthur and Morgana went ahead, with Princess Mithian between them. A few steps behind were Merlin and Gwen.

— So, Arthur... Tell me... What were you afraid I would tell the Princess? — asked Morgana

— Nothing... — answered Arthur quickly — I was just worried that you were making up ridiculous things to make me look bad

— Oh... I don't need to do that — answered Morgana — you'll surely do it yourself... Anyone who spends time with you can realize how silly you are.

Gwen and Mithian avoided laughing at Morgana's comment, it wasn't easy, but they managed it. However, Merlin was unable to do so, and let out a loud laugh.

— Shut up Merlin

— Prat

— Why so grumpy Merlin? Your bottom has already started to hurt? We've only been riding for a few minutes — Arthur replied. After all, he had to get revenge for the comment he made about Gwen a while ago.

— No... But not all of us have a huge bottom that makes sitting on a horse more comfortable.

— I'm not fat!

— Clotpole

— Oh, there we go — Morgana said to Mithian — when they start arguing like that, there's no stopping them...

— Do they do this often? — asked Mithian surprised by the interaction, and by Merlin's audacity

— Yeah, all the time — answered Morgana — come on, let's get ahead... there's no point in listening to their stupidities

— Oh... Ok..

— Gwen, you're in charge of those two — said Morgana out loud before quickening her pace and moving forward with the Princess

— Do you see what you did? — asked Arthur, pointing at the two women who were several meters ahead

— Me? — said Merlin — it was you who started with the insults

— Of course not!

— Ehm... Wouldn't it be better to stop arguing and catch up with them? — Gwen intervened, before the discussion continued. Turning to Arthur, she added — I thought you were trying to make a good impression on the Princess

— That's true... You're right — said Arthur — it's important that our kingdoms get along... Come on, let's catch up

— We've arrived — announced Arthur, as soon as they reached the top of a hill, from which there was a great view of the castle and the citadel

The five of them dismounted from their horses. Gwen and Merlin immediately began to take out the things needed for the picnic.

— What about here? — Arthur asked Mithian — What do you think?

— The view is certainly spectacular — said Mithian

— There's no doubt about that — said Arthur, giving Merlin the signal to leave the things he was carrying in his arms on the ground. Just a few seconds later, he added — The ground isn't really smooth, is it? A bit bumpy...

Merlin, who was kneeling on the ground, looked at Gwen, who was approaching with the last things for the picnic.

— What about over here? — said Arthur, walking a few meters to his right — Yes. This is much better. Merlin!

Merlin picked up all the things he had left on the floor and followed Arthur

— Perfect. Perfect — said Arthur, who upon seeing that Merlin left the things on the floor again, added — Yet, is the view really as good?

— Arthur... — said Mithian

— You prefer the original? — said Arthur immediately — Right, then... Merlin!

— Don't be so mean... — said Mithian looking at Gwen and Morgana for help

— He doesn't mind, do you Merlin? — said Arthur with a grimace of satisfaction upon seeing Merlin's angry face... Revenge was sweet — Besides he needs building up. Look at him...

— Enough... — said Mithian, approaching Merlin — Thank you Merlin. I'll do the rest

— Thank you Princess — said Merlin, then added thoughtfully — So royals can be polite and kind... Then why are you such a prat?

— Shut up Merlin! — said Arthur, reluctantly helping Merlin with the picnic stuff

— They really do it often — said Mithian surprised

— Yes, all the time — said Morgana — it was funny at first... Not so much anymore...

Arthur, Morgana and Mithian were sitting on some blankets enjoying the delicious food they had brought; Gwen and Merlin were next to them eating in silence.

— So... Did you like Camelot? — Arthur asked Mithian

— Oh, yes... It's beautiful — answered the Princess

— Oh, come on Arthur, don't be boring... Let's change the subject, let's talk about something more entertaining than the view we have — said Morgana with a mischievous smile

— Like what? — asked Arthur

— So, Princess... Do you want to hear some of the stories in which Arthur makes a fool of himself? — asked Morgana

— Morgana! — answered Arthur quickly — You wouldn't dare!

— Try me... — said Morgana defiantly

— Oh, come on... There's no need to argue — said Mithian — but I must admit that I would like to hear some entertaining story

— Let me think of one... — said Morgana with an evil smile

Merlin was trying to maintain his role as a servant and not draw attention to himself, but after Morgana's question he had been remembering some of Arthur's most ridiculous moments, and obviously the donkey ears came to his mind... And he couldn't hold it in any longer

— Hahaha... — Merlin began to laugh out loud, surprising everyone present

— What are you laughing at Merlin? — asked Arthur, somewhat scared by the answer

— ... Your... Donkey ears... — said Merlin between laughs. In fact he was laughing so hard that he had begun to choke and had a hard time speaking

— No! — Arthur shouted at him — shut up Merlin!

Morgana and Gwen had begun to laugh too, but at Arthur's threatening look they immediately fell silent, remembering that they had also been humiliated at that time.

— Donkey ears? — Mithian asked bewildered — what could be so funny?

Arthur, Morgana and Gwen looked at each other, refusing to answer. For his part, Merlin was still trying to recover from the fit of laughter, and could not answer.

— Oh, no!... If you put it like that, it means that I NEED to know what happened — said Mithian.

— No... It's not worth it — said Morgana hurriedly — let me think of something else...

— Oh, come on... — said Mithian — Merlin, could you tell me?

— With pleasure, Princess — he answered, wiping away a couple of tears that had escaped from laughing so much — a few months ago someone released a goblin in the castle and...

— Merlin! — Arthur shouted, who with a murderous look added — shut up

— She told me to tell her, I just obey — Merlin said in an innocent tone

— Of course! Now you obey! — Arthur replied indignantly — everyone knows that you are the worst servant in Camelot, and that you never do what you're told!

Merlin did not answer, and simply gave Arthur an angry look before continuing with his story

— As I was saying... The goblin attacked many of the castle's inhabitants — Merlin said — playing pranks on them...

— Oh... And the donkey ears? — Mithian asked intrigued

— One day in the throne room everyone... Hahaha They started to fart... — Merlin said between laughs — he had given them all a tonic that caused them

— It wasn't funny! — Gwen said, covering her face with her hands

— No... Definitely not — Morgana added

— Were you two affected? — Mithian asked, trying to hold back her laughter at the horrified faces of both women

— And Arthur... Hahaha... It makde him have donkey ears!! Hahaha — Merlin tried to say, but he could barely speak between all the laughter — and he couldn't talk, he just brayed!!! Hahaha... Oh, I can't breathe...

— Hahaha oh, my... — Mithian started laughing, who couldn't hold it in anymore — I'm so sorry Arthur... But it's hilarious hahaha

Eventually, Merlin and Mithian's laughter began to spread to the others, and soon everyone was laughing out loud, including Arthur.

Merlin was tempted to bewitch Arthur to bray once more... But he knew it was a risky thing to do in front of Morgana, however just thinking about it made him have another fit of laughter

— Calm down Merlin, or you'll piss your pants — Arthur told him, who suspected that Merlin had something to do with the loose goblin

— Arthur! — Gwen said, starting to laugh again

— What? It's not like it's never happened to him before... — Arthur replied with an evil smile. The truth is that he hadn't seen Merlin piss his pants, but he had humiliated him in front of the Princess and that required revenge

— What?!?! — Merlin shouted — that's not true You Prat!

Mithian looked at Morgana and Gwen in shock

— Don't look at me, I don't know anything — Morgana said, but maybe it would be a good time to get a little revenge on Merlin — but if Arthur says it's true... I believe him

— No! It's not! — Merlin said defensively, embarrassed to sound like a little child. With his ears red with embarrassment, he added — that's never happened Princess...

— Are you calling me a liar? — Arthur said teasingly — And why are you so defensive if it's not true?

— Why?! Because are you humiliating me in front of the Princess! — answered Merlin, who now had not only red ears, but also his entire face — That's why, you cabbage head!!

— There's no need to fight — said Mithian, taking pity on Merlin — ... Maybe you could tell me another story... You don't have to embarrass anyone this time

Merlin, grateful for the change of subject, but still angry with Arthur, stood up and simply said

— I'll go see the horses

Arthur didn't answer anything, but he watched closely as Merlin walked away at a quick pace. When he looked back at the group, he could see that Mithian looked somewhat worried.

— Don't worry, he'll be fine... — said Arthur — It'll pass

— I'll be right back — said Mithian, quickly standing up to follow Merlin

— That stupid prat... How dare he...

— Merlin?

Merlin was so focused on grumbling that he hadn't heard her approach

— I'm sorry... I was... — Merlin said, uncomfortable and embarrassed — You need something Princess?

— No, nothing... I just wanted to come and apologize to you and see if you were okay

— Oh, no... You don't have to apologize...

— Yes, I asked you to tell me the story... And Arthur clearly decided to get revenge afterwards — she said

— As I said before, it's not your fault princess, but Arthur's

— Oh, please call me Mithian — she said with a smile — ...I really wanted to thank you... It's been a long time since I laughed so hard...

— Yeah, me too...

— But it wasn't just the story... Your laugh is very contagious

— Oh... — Merlin said, who had red ears again

— Merlin, there you are — Arthur said, interrupting them — Princess, could I talk to Merlin alone?

— Yes, of course... I'll go back to Morgana and Gwen

— What do you want? — Merlin asked sharply

— Apologize...

— ...

— I'm sorry for embarrassing you like that in front of the others with that lie — said Arthur — but you started with the donkey ears thing!

— Again with your half-hearted apologies — said Merlin — apologies don't include "buts"

— But in this case they do! — said Arthur — you were the one who freed the goblin, weren't you?

— By accident! — answered Merlin, who quietly added — Morgana could hear us...

— Yeah... We'll talk about it later... Now come back with us, or Mithian will think I'm punishing you or something

— Oh, right... And we don't want her to think badly of you, right — said Merlin, turning around and heading towards the picnic area without looking at Arthur

— Merlin... — said Arthur resignedly, following his brother, but without getting an answer

The picnic continued for a couple more hours, Morgana and Arthur sharing stories with Mithian, and the Princess telling some stories too. Merlin and Gwen, for their part, returned to their roles as servants, remaining mostly silent for the rest of the afternoon.

When they returned to the castle, everyone went their separate ways: Morgana, followed by Gwen, went to her room; Mithian, went to her room to rest a bit before dinner, so she told Gwen that she did not require her services for a while; Arthur had to go meet with the knights to get the patrol report; Merlin had to accompany him, but decided that he was not in the mood to do so, so he turned around to go to his room.

— Where are you going? — Arthur asked him, noticing that he wasn't following him

— To my room — Merlin answered sharply

— We have to talk to the knights

— Correction, you have to talk to them — Merlin answered — I, the incompetent servant, shouldn't go to such important meetings...

— Merlin...

— Don't worry, I'll look for something to clean in the meantime — Merlin answered before turning around and leaving, ignoring Arthur's calls

Merlin entered the antechamber of Arthur's room, and careful not to leave any trace, he entered his room and threw himself on the bed.

He really didn't understand why he was so upset with Arthur, it wasn't the first time that their stupid and innocent banter no ended in a real argument, nor was it the first time that Arthur humiliated him in front of someone important... But something had made him feel different, he had really been hurt by Arthur's behavior.

Unable to stop thinking about what had happened, Merlin decided it would be better to occupy his mind with something else... Morgana...

Morgana had been suspiciously nice and pleasant all afternoon. In fact, for a moment Merlin had felt like he had gone back in time... And that in front of them was that gentle Morgana he had met when he arrived at Camelot.

Morgana was definitely up to something, and he had to find out before it was too late.

Merlin jumped out of bed, it was time to go for a walk through the halls and parapets of the castle.

Upon returning from the picnic, Mithian had returned to her room to freshen up and rest a bit before today's dinner. Dinner today would also be in the great hall with Uther and other high ranking members of Camelot, but it would not be a feast like the one the day before, so it did not require as much preparation on her part in terms of clothing.

This left her with a little more than an hour, free time that the princess did not want to waste sitting in her room, she wanted to see a little more of the castle or the citadel.

Camelot Castle was built high in relation to the rest of the city, so Mithian suspected that the view from one of the parapets must be very striking. In search of one of those parapets she was currently walking through unknown corridors in the hope of finding the way to her destination.

— Princess?

— Merlin!

— What are you doing here? Are you lost? — Merlin asked, approaching

— Oh, no... Well, maybe a little — she answered with a smile

— Do you want me to help you get to your room?

— No... I was actually looking for the way to one of the upper parapets — she answered with some shyness — I wanted to see the city from above... I guess the view must be beautiful

— Oh, in that case I have the perfect place — Merlin answered with one of his characteristic smiles — follow me

— Wonderful! — Mithian said enthusiastically

— From there there is an almost complete view of the city — said Merlin, turning a corner — and at this time it looks even more beautiful

— Really? I'm anxious — she answered — is it much farther?

— No, we're already there — said Merlin, opening the door that led to the parapet — you were about to find it by yourself

— Oh my... — said the astonished Princess

The view was really beautiful. From up there you could see the castle gardens, the citadel and the lower city... All bathed in an orange/pink tint from the sunset

— Told you — Merlin said triumphantly

— You weren't lying, the view is really beautiful

— Of course not... I don't lie... not like other people I know... — Merlin said — I love coming here... not just for the view, but also for the calm...

— It's a good place to escape from Arthur I suppose — she said with a smile

— It was... But now it's the first place he looks for me — Merlin answered. The smile on his face disappeared as he remembered his disagreement with Arthur

— So should I expect him to show up any minute? — she asked, who upon seeing Merlin's astonished face added — Oh, come on... You don't believe that I didn't notice how tense things got between you two, and that when you came back you didn't go with him

— Uhm...

— It's okay, you don't have to apologize to me, I can understand why you would be upset with him — she answered — he definitely went too far

— Thank you! — Merlin said, happy that someone had noticed

— But I could also tell that it wasn't with bad intentions... And that later he regretted what happened

— Really? I'm not really sure about that last part

— Oh, come on... I've only known you two for a short time, but I can perfectly tell that Arthur thinks highly of you — she said sincerely — and that he really cares about your opinion

— I'm still not so sure about that

— Plus it was very clear to me from the way you banter at the beginning... I don't know how to explain it — she said thoughtfully — it was obvious that neither of you were serious, and that you were just having fun... It was like a typical sibling banter

— Does you have siblings? — Merlin asked, trying to change the subject— No, but I have met many brothers... And believe me, that bond between them is special — she said — and I could see something very similar in you two, which is very strange between servant and master... It surprised me a lot at first

— Don't tell that to Uther, or he will lock me in the cells — Merlin answered with a smile, trying a joke

— I'm serious Merlin, the friendship between you two is very clear to me — she told him, leaning a little on the parapet — and with the same clarity I can see that it is very strong... And that a ridiculous discussion will not alter things... I can assure you that by tomorrow you two will have solved it

— I guess so... Thanks — Merlin said with a genuine smile, leaning on the parapet next to the Princess — so... You enjoy the picnic?

— Of course!! As I told you before, it's been a long time since I laughed so hard — she said — thank you for a great afternoon...

— A pleasure

— I hope you can tell me more stories — she said — but without Arthur being present, of course hahaha

— Hahaha oh... I accept the challenge — said Merlin

Mithian looked at Merlin intrigued, this servant was nothing like the servants she knew... There was something special about him. To hide her intrigue face a little, she decided to concentrate on looking at the citadel

Merlin, taking advantage of the silence and the fact that the Princess was focused on the view, closed his eyes to try to feel his surroundings and a possible presence of dark magic... Nothing, he couldn't feel any trace of dark magic... That only made him more alert

— Do you want to see a special place? — he asked Mithian

— Of course! — she answered — but do we have time? Dinner will start soon

— Yes, it won't take long

Mithian followed Merlin through stairs and hallways, until they reached the first floor. There Merlin led her through a service door hidden behind a mat, and through some narrow hallways until they reached a glass door that led outside. Crossing it they found a majestic garden of flowers and other beautiful plants, accompanied by statues and fountains.

— It is the Queen's garden... — said Merlin — it was Arthur's mother's favorite place...

— It is very beautiful — said the princess, bending down to smell one of the flowers.

— In theory, when the Queen died Uther ordered that it be dismantled and this whole area closed — explained Merlin — but the servants wanted to keep it to honor and remember the Queen.

— Oh, what a beautiful gesture...

— Yes... Luckily Uther has refused to come here again... And he doesn't know that it still exists — said Merlin — ... Or he would have accused them of treason for not obeying him.

— But why did he want to destroy his wife's favorite place?

— Sadness, I guess... Uther isn't good at handling emotions... — Merlin explained — he doesn't even talk about her with Arthur...

— Oh... That's sad

— Yes... — Merlin replied, distractedly looking at a flower in front of him

Merlin had discovered this garden shortly after he started working at the castle. In an attempt to find a shortcut to the great hall he had entered the wrong hallway and had ended up here. He had immediately been amazed by the beauty of the garden, and by the fact that it seemed to be closed off to the public. He had later mentioned this to Gaius, who had told him the truth about the place, and that he should not tell anyone, so that it would not reach Uther's ears. Now this garden had become even more special, as it was one of the few places in the castle where he felt truly comfortable and safe... And he could feel a connection with his mother.

— And Arthur knows about this place?

— Yes... — said Merlin — but Uther doesn't, so you must not tell anyone, okay?

— I give you my word... I wouldn't want to be the cause of something so beautiful being destroyed

— Thank you — Merlin said with a smile

— I think it's time to go back, or we'll be late for dinner — said the Princess

— That's right! Come on!

Merlin entered the room, expecting to find Arthur there preparing for dinner. But no, Arthur wasn't there, and from what he could see he had already changed his clothes, so he was probably on his way to the great hall.

Since he couldn't act as a servant during dinner yet, and today was just a quiet dinner with Nemeth, Merlin couldn't be present in the hall with Arthur. Merlin then decided to retire to his room to eat in peace.

After accompanying the Princess to her room, Merlin had gone to the kitchen to get his dinner, knowing that he wouldn't be accompanying Arthur today.

After dinner, Merlin lay down to read, taking advantage of the free time, and since Morgana would be at dinner there was no danger of her doing anything for the moment.

After reading for a while, Merlin was overcome with exhaustion. He fell asleep and the book in his hand fell onto the bed.

— ... I can't believe it... All this time I had a wizard in my household!! — shouted Uther — I myself made you my son's servant!!

Merlin didn't answer, too scared to do so. He was on his knees on the floor in the throne room, his hands tied behind his back, Uther towering over him, and the rest of Camelot watching in amazement and uneasiness the fate of the evil wizard

— All these years you have been laughing in my face! — shouted Uther, his gaze fixed on Merlin — Everything Camelot has suffered has been your fault! All the deaths and misfortunes... It's all been because of you!!

— No... No... I didn't...

— But I discovered you! You can't do any more harm to my kingdom!

— No... I never

— Don't deny it!! — shouted Uther — Arthur told me everything!! EVERYTHING!!

The astonished audience took a breath and fell silent

— The dragon... Cornelius Sigan... The contaminated water... Morgause...

— No... I don't...

— You poisoned Morgana!!!

— No!... I didn't want...

— For all your crimes you...

— Merlin!!

— No! No! — shouted Merlin, who sat up suddenly trying to free himself from the strong hands that had him trapped

— Merlin! Wake up!! — shouted Arthur, shaking Merlin's shoulders

— No! — shouted Merlin, fighting harder

— Merlin! Look at me! — said Arthur desperately. Sitting on the bed next to Merlin, he took his face in his hands, forcing him to look him in the eyes and repeated — look at me!... It's alright... It's me... It was just a nightmare... You are safe...

— Ar-rthur? — asked Merlin confused, trying to identify the face of the person in front of him.

While he slept, it seemed that almost all the candles that lit his room had been consumed, only one was left lit in a corner. Arthur had noticed that Merlin was having a nightmare when he entered, and he had not had time to light more candles

— Yes, it's me... — Arthur said in a reassuring tone, he let go of Merlin and said again — you're safe... It was just a nightmare

Merlin closed his eyes, covered his face with his hands and sighed heavily.

— Are you okay? — Arthur asked worriedly.

He didn't know if it was the poor lighting in the room or not, but Merlin looked paler than usual, sweat covered his forehead and he was shaking slightly

— Not really — Merlin said sincerely.

— Do you want to talk about it?

— What are you doing here? — Merlin answered sharply, remembering that he was still somewhat upset with Arthur

— I came to talk to you — Arthur answered — I hadn't seen you since we got back from the picnic

— Really? I hadn't noticed — Merlin said sarcastically

— I'm sorry... — Arthur said — I know I went a little overboard today

— A little? — asked Merlin raising an eyebrow

— Yes... A bit, just like you with your comments — answered Arthur

— This is the worst apology ever

— I'm serious Merlin... I do feel sorry, but you must admit that you also went a bit too far... — said Arthur — with the comments about Gwen, and especially talking about the donkey ears

— It was something funny to tell!

— Not for me... — answered Arthur — it was embarrassing

— I'm... Sorry... — said Merlin — but even so you shouldn't have gone around making up things to humiliate me... At least what I said was true

— You're right — said Arthur — and that's why I'm apologizing... I'm sorry

— Thanks... I appreciate it

— Now, tell me... What was that nightmare about?

— Nothing... It was nothing

— Merlin... You're still shaking... — said Arthur, pointing at Merlin's hands, which were still shaking — it was clearly something

— Uther had discovered that I'm a wizard — answered Merlin in a low voice, without taking his eyes off his hands... He didn't want to look at Arthur — we were in the throne room... And all of Camelot was there... He was about to condemn me when you woke me up...

— That's not going to happen Merlin, I promise... — said Arthur, trying to calm him down — he won't find out...

— He didn't find out... You told him

— What?

— You had told him everything — said Merlin with a broken voice, trying to stop the tears from falling down his cheeks — you had told him everything I had done... — the tears had begun to fall freely — and even blaming me for things I never did

Arthur looked at Merlin in anguish. A simple lie a few hours ago had caused this... All of Merlin's insecurities and fears had come flooding back.

— Merlin... Look at me — Arthur said softly — look at me, please

Merlin looked up cautiously and looked Arthur in the eyes

— That will never happen... NEVER — Arthur told him, trying to make his tone as sincere as possible. He needed Merlin to believe him — I promised you before, and I promise again now... I will protect your secret, with my life if necessary... And that includes Uther

— But... — Merlin said. He wanted to believe Arthur, he really did... But so many years of keeping the secret had made him very distrustful about it

— No buts... Nothing will change my mind — Arthur assured him — even if I am very upset with you, I will NEVER cross that line...

— I... Thanks — said Merlin, wiping the last tears that rolled down his cheeks and trying a smile — I guess Princess Mithian was right after all

— What are you talking about?

— She said she could easily notice that our bond was strong... That we even looked like brothers because of the way we banter — Merlin explained — and that she was sure we would resolve our differences tonight

— Very accurate observation

— Yes... A bit scary... Maybe she's a witch — said Merlin jokingly

— Don't be ridiculous — said Arthur, who in a more serious tone added — but seriously Merlin, just like the Princess said... We are brothers, and our bond is much stronger than a stupid argument... is that clear?

— Yeah.. — answered Merlin, this time with a sincere smile — so... How was dinner?

— Good... Nothing strange happened

— And Morgana?

— As sweet and cheerful as during the picnic... — Arthur answered — I guess that counts as something strange

— That's sad... — Merlin answered — Today's picnic reminded me of the old Morgana

— Me too...

— I haven't felt any dark magic yet, and I don't know what she's up to... — Merlin said — ...but the fact that part of her plan is to act sweet and cheerful disturbs me

— Yes... — Arthur said — ...Wait, when did you talk to Princess Mithian?

— Oh, after coming back from the picnic... I was going to the highest parapet to see if I could feel some dark magic when I ran into her in one of the hallways — Merlin explained — she was trying to find a balcony or parapet so she could see the city

— And then you took her to your secret place to enjoy the view? — asked Arthur with a small smile on his face

— Yeah, at that hour the light of the sunset gave an orange/pink touch to the city... — said Merlin, not noticing Arthur's playful tone — The view from up there is unmatched

— Yeah, I can imagine... — said Arthur — and what else did you two do alone up there?

— Nothing... Talk a little... — answered Merlin, still not understanding Arthur's interest in his meeting with the Princess — and then we went to the secret garden...

— You took her there?! — answered Arthur amazed and somewhat worried — Do you realize that the fact of it being secret, is that nobody should know about it?!?!

— I know! But she was amazed with the view, I assumed she would like the garden — answered Merlin — don't worry, she promised not to tell anyone... She said she didn't want to be the cause of Uther destroying something so beautiful

— Did you tell her?

— Of course I did... — Merlin answered, confused by Arthur's questions — Or how do you want me to explain the existence of a secret garden?

— Sometimes I wonder how you've been able to keep the secret of your magic for so long — Arthur said — ...you didn't tell her that, did you?

— Of course not! — Merlin answered

— I had to ask — Arthur said

— So, the hunting trip still starts at dawn? Hasn't the schedule changed?

— No change, we leave at dawn... — Arthur said — We must return early, Mithian and I must be present at the closing of the negotiations that will be held before the farewell feast

— In that case I will go check that everything is ready for tomorrow — Merlin said — I won't have time to do it tomorrow before we leave... I don't think I can go to the negotiations with you, I must supervise the feast and...

— You won't go... — Arthur said, getting up from Merlin's bed

— What?

— You're not going to go hunting

— What are you talking about? Of course I'll go — Merlin replied, getting out of bed

— No, you're not going... — Arthur said, crossing his arms — the last time we went hunting you almost died!

— Exactly! Those trips are dangerous — Merlin replied — and you want to go hunting in the forest with Morgana... And without me? Forget it!

— Merlin

— No, Arthur! — Merlin replied, starting to pace around the room — it could be a trap... Morgause could be waiting for you along with an army of bandits... Or you could be attacked by some magical creature... Or Morgana could use her crossbow to shoot you or the princess

— I know...

— Or it could all happen at the same time!

— I know... That's why you can't come — Arthur said firmly — if you go, she could take the opportunity to kill you too

— What?

— You heard me... — said Arthur — it's also an option, and she could easily pass off your death as an accident

— Yours or the princess's too!

— I know... — said Arthur — but the princess will probably be surrounded by her knights...

— And you?

— Me too... This hunt includes many knights and even the dogs... — answered Arthur — it won't be easy for her to get close to me... But if you go and we separate, no knight will be with you

— You know I can take care of myself...

— With magic... But remember that we don't want Morgana to find out about that...

— I know! But you can't go without me!! — Merlin replied — it's still too risky, my magic might be needed...

— No...

— Yes, I'm going and that's final — said Merlin, approaching the door — technically I'm also a Prince, and it's my duty as Prince to go hunting tomorrow

— So now you want to fulfill your royal duties — said Arthur — No, you won't go...

— Yes... — said Merlin, opening the door — I'll go see that everything is in order for tomorrow

— Agh! — said Arthur, as he watched his stubborn brother leave the room

It was about to dawn and the courtyard was full of horses. Half of the knights of Nemeth would accompany the Princess, along with another twenty knights of Camelot who would accompany the Prince and the king's ward.

— Good morning — said the Princess as she approached the horses

— Good morning Princess — said Arthur

— Good morning my lady — said Merlin with a smile

— Good morning Merlin — she replied, who after taking a look at both men added — I'm glad you were able to talk and resolve your differences

Merlin and Arthur exchanged glances, but before they could respond, Morgana approached them

— Good morning — said Morgana — ready to lose Arthur?

— It's not a competition — said Arthur

— Who said that? — she replied with a smile — it's a hunt... Whoever gets the best result wins, obviously

Before Arthur could respond, Leon approached them

— We're ready sire

— Excellent... Sound the horns... — ordered Arthur

As soon as the horns sounded, the group began to move towards the forest. In a few more kilometers they will have gone deep enough into the forest to leave the horses and continue on foot so as not to scare the deer.

— It's time to dismount — Arthur ordered — we'll continue on foot... Get the dogs ready

— Understood sire — answered Leon, who was leading the knights

They had only been walking for a couple of minutes when Arthur stopped, he had found a trail

— The trail goes to the right — said Arthur — let's go this way

— I'll go the other way — said Morgana — after all it's a competition

— Okay... — answered Arthur, who after exchanging glances quickly with Merlin added — but don't go too far

— Are you worried about me? — asked Morgana

— Of course not... — answered Arthur

Morgana simply turned around and walked away, with Merlin following her from afar so she wouldn't notice what she was doing.

— Are you okay? — the Princess asked Arthur — you look a little worried... You've been looking everywhere but where the trail is. — Sorry... I was just thinking about Merlin.

— I thought you had fixed your misunderstanding from yesterday.

— Yes, yes we did — Arthur replied. Normally he wouldn't be so open about his feelings with anyone, but there was something about the Princess that made him forget his guards, and just be frank with her. — ...on our last hunting trip Merlin was injured...

— And you're worried it will happen again?

— Yes... You should see how clumsy he is... — Arthur said with a smile — he can trip over his own feet...

— If you were so worried, why did you bring him?

— Haven't you noticed how insolent and disobedient he is? — answered Arthur — I forbade him to come... And yet, here he is

— Oh... I guess he likes hunting too much to miss this occasion — she answered, trying to make as little noise as possible with her footsteps so as not to scare the animals

— Hahaha no, he hates hunting ... He feels sorry for us killing the animals — answered Arthur — in fact, he often makes noise on purpose to scare them

— Really? So why does he come?

— I don't know... I stopped trying to understand the things he's been doing a long time ago...

— Hahaha I guess there's never a quiet moment when you're together

— Oh, you wouldn't believe it — said Arthur with a smile — wait... There, there's the deer

Indeed, in front of them, about 15 meters away was a deer, who was eating peacefully

Arthur turned around to give signals to the knights who were coming after them. They had to surround it to prevent it from escaping. In front of them, behind the deer, Arthur could see Morgana, who was already aiming her crossbow. But where was Merlin? Arthur couldn't see him anywhere.

As soon as everyone was in position, Arthur raised his own crossbow, as did the Princess, and they both fired at the same time. Morgana also fired hers.

It seemed that someone had managed to hit their target, because the deer fell sideways to the ground.

— Great! — said Arthur and Mithian at the same time.

Both approached the wounded prey, in front of them Morgana also began to approach.

— I think it was a tie — said Mithian, pointing with her hand at the three arrows that the deer had.

— It seems so — said Arthur, who after looking around and noticing Merlin's absence shouted, — Merlin!

— I'm coming! — Merlin's voice was heard behind the trees, to one side of the scene.

— Where have you been? — Arthur asked him when he saw him arrive

— Over there... — Merlin said with a smile

— Were you chasing away the animals again?

— Maybe...

— You're such a girl

— And you are a Clotpole

— A what? — asked Mithian, interrupting the discussion.

— Nothing, don't worry... Just one of Merlin's stupid words — said Arthur — well, I guess it's time to go back to the castle

— Oh, no... It's still early — said Mithian, looking at the position of the sun — we still have time for a second round

— Besides, we need a tiebreaker — added Morgana

— All right... — said Arthur, who, addressing his men, added — some of you start preparing the prey so we can go back to Camelot, the rest of us will continue for a while longer

— Understood sire — answered Leon, starting to give orders to the knights

— And you — said Arthur, pointing at Merlin — don't wander around... Stay close to me

— Why? —Merlin responded.

— You will probably get lost or hurt yourself somehow... — replied Arthur — so you need to stay close to us, so we can babysit you

— I don't need a babysitter!! — Merlin said embarrassed

— Actually... I was thinking, since we need a tiebreaker — Mithian said, trying to stop the argument before it escalated like yesterday — that we should go our separate ways... And Merlin can go with me

Arthur looked at Mithian somewhat confused, but he didn't want Merlin to get upset again... One nightmare had been enough for this week...

— Ok... — Arthur said — but don't go too far

— Come on Merlin — Mithian said, as she began to walk east, followed by a few of her knights

— You didn't have to do that — Merlin told her — I was about to put Arthur in his place

— I have no doubt about it... — Mithian said with a smile — but you just reconciled, it doesn't make sense that you would have ended up fighting again

— Yeah... I guess you are right...

— Besides, he does it because he's worried about you

— Hahaha really? — said Merlin — He has a very strange way of showing it

— It's true... He told me that the last time you went hunting you had been injured — said Mithian, focused on looking for the trail of some animal

— Oh, yes...

— What happened?

— Some bandits attacked us... An arrow went through my arm — explained Merlin — I fell from my horse and hit my head very hard against a rock on the ground

— Oh, my! I'm glad you're ok now

— Yeah... I was on strict bed rest for a while... I hated it — said Merlin — and have a sling in my arm for weeks

— Oh...

— Actually, I just get rid of it the day you arrive

— And your arm is alright now?

— Yes... Almost as new — said Merlin, who just heard a sound behind them — shhh... I heard something

Mithian remained silent, paying attention to his surroundings to be able to identify where the sound came from. Merlin, very attentive as well, looked around for the source of the noise... Bandits again? Morgause? An animal?

— Look out!! — shouted Merlin, just a second before tackling the Princess to avoid the charge of a wild boar that was running towards them.

As soon as they hit the ground, Merlin heard the boar slow down and turn around, ready to try a second attack.

With only a few seconds to react and no chance of avoiding the attack this time, Merlin took Mithian's crossbow that had fallen to the ground next to them, and aimed straight at the boar. The arrow hit the target, but the boar continued its charge.

— Ahhh — shouted Mithian, the boar was only a meter away from them

Merlin fired a second shot, but there was no time for a third one. Fortunately it was not necessary, since just a few centimeters away from them the boar fell defeated to the ground.

— Oh, thank God! — Mithian said relieved — thank you Merlin, you saved me

— Are you alright? I'm sorry I tackle you so hard...

— Don't worry I'm fine — she said, trying to sit up so she could stand up — ow...

— Let me see... — said Merlin, taking the Princess's left hand, from which blood was coming out

— Merlin! Mithian! — shouted Arthur, who was running towards them, along with several knights and Morgana — are you okay?!...

— What happened?? — asked Morgana, who while pointing at the boar added — did it attack you?

— Did we interrupt something? — added Arthur with a smile, seeing that they were both on the ground, and holding hands

— Yes, it attacked us — answered Merlin, ignoring Arthur's comment — the Princess is hurt

— Oh, it's nothing... It's just a few scratches — she answered — all thanks to Merlin

— Merlin?

— Yes, he pushed me out of the way, and then shot him — she exclaimed, trying to stand up again

— I'll help you — said Morgana, coming over to help the Princess to her feet

— Uh... Well done Merlin — answered Arthur, somewhat surprised that Merlin had been able to defend them without using his magic — well, I guess now it's time to go back to the castle

— No, Arthur... I'm fine, really — said Mithian — besides, we haven't even broken the tie yet... Although, thinking about it, I think Merlin is winning...

— What? — asked Morgana.

— He alone killed the boar... And the three of us killed the deer.

— You're right, we need one more — said Morgana. She won't lose against Merlin, even if it was in a simple hunt — we still have time.

— Fine, but it's the last one — answered Arthur — and first we must return to the camp so that Merlin can take care of that wound, I don't want it to get infected.

— Will Merlin take care of it? — asked Mithian, amazed.

— Yes, he is the apprentice of the court physician — answered Arthur.

— Really? You're full of surprises Merlin — answered Mithian with a big smile.

A group of knights brought the boar to the camp, so they could prepare it and take it back to Camelot.

While Merlin took care of Mithian, Arthur went to observe the boar... He was still amazed that Merlin had not used magic. Looking closely, he could see that the boar had a brown piece of cloth stuck in its tusk... And a bit of blood.

Arthur approached Merlin and Mithian. Merlin was already finishing putting the bandage on the Princess's hand

— Are you ready? — Arthur asked — everything okay?

— Yes, I'm done — Merlin said, putting his things away in his medical bag — there were some thorns buried in the palm of her hand, but I took them out, cleaned the wound and bandaged it... I offered her something for the pain but she didn't want it

— Are you okay Princess?

— Yes, I'm fine... Ready to continue

— Before that... — Arthur said — Merlin show me your leg

— My leg? Why? — Merlin said confused, showing Arthur his right leg — what's wrong?

— The other leg...

— I don't understand... What's going on? — Merlin said, showing Arthur his left leg this time — what are you looking for?

— This — said Arthur, taking Merlin's left leg, and showing him a hole in his pants, through which a wound on the skin could be seen — when were you going to tell me you were hurt?

— What? Where? — asked Merlin, he hadn't really noticed — I didn't notice... — he said while pulling up his pants so he could look at the wound more easily — how did you know?

— The boar had this on its tusk — said Arthur, handing Merlin the piece of brown cloth — treat that wound and then we leave

— Ok... — said Merlin, taking his things out of the medical bag again.

Luckily, this morning he had decided to put on his old clothes, precisely thinking about not destroying his new clothes that Gwen had made him.

The wound was not deep, but it was a long cut, and it was bleeding quite a bit.

— Oh, Merlin — said Mithian — I'm sorry you got hurt because of me.

— It wasn't yoir fault, Princess... The boar was attacking us — answered Merlin — and it's not deep... I hadn't even noticed...

A few minutes later, when Merlin was ready, it was time to leave again.

— Are we going in different directions again? — asked Morgana

— I think it's for the best — said Mithian

— I don't know... There might be another wild boar out there — answered Arthur

— Oh come on, if we all go together we won't be able to break the tie — said Mithian

— We could go in pairs — suggested Morgana — the two of us, against you two

— Excellent idea — answered Mithian, before Arthur or Merlin could protest

— Excellent, we'll go this way — said Morgana quickly, before Arthur ruined her plans — may the best win

— I don't like this — said Merlin, as soon as the girls moved away a little

— Me neither, but we can't do anything that will make Morgana suspicious — answered Arthur — we have to play along

— Do you think she had something to do with the boar attack? — Merlin asked

— I don't know... It could be, but it's a place where there are usually wild boars.. — Arthur answered, walking in search of the trail of an animal, the sooner they catch one, the less time Morgana will have to spend with the Princess. In a low voice he added — Did you use magic on the boar?

— No... I used a crossbow, didn't you see?

— I saw it... But I still don't believe it

— Ha ha... You're not funny

— Come on... The sooner we catch something, the less time Morgana will spend with the Princess — said Arthur urging Merlin, in a low voice so that the knights coming after them wouldn't hear him, he added — Do you have any spell so we can see what they're doing?

— Yes... I can see what's happening up ahead... But I can't do it while walking, or I could crash into something...

— We can't stop for too long or it will be suspicious... — said Arthur looking sideways at the knights behind them — How long will it take you?

— A few seconds...

— Fine, I'll pretend to look for a trail and you do your thing — Arthur told him

— Ok...

— Something?

— They're just walking and talking, it seems... Nothing suspicious

— Fine, let's continue

Arthur and Merlin repeated this sequence four more times before Mithian and Morgana finally shot a couple of hares. With this, the competition came to an end, and everyone returned to the castle for lunch.

As soon as they entered the castle they were greeted by Rick

— Welcome sire — Rick said — do you want me to take your lunches to your room?

— Rick? Shouldn't you be with King Rodor? — asked Arthur, without answering Rick's question

— King Rodor is eating in his room, and as soon as we heard that you were on your way back he allowed me to come and meet you sire — replied Rick — as soon as you have lunch I will return with him

— I understand — said Arthur

— Thanks Rick, but just take Arthur's, I will eat something quick in the kitchens and then I will go to supervise that everything is okay for this afternoon and tomorrow — replied Merlin, before Arthur could do so

— What he said — replied Arthur with a smile

— Very well sire, I will go right away — said Rick, heading to the kitchens

— Well done Merlin — said Arthur, patting him on the back

— What are you talking about?

— The way you answered Rick and gave orders...

— Oh, don't start that again — Merlin said exasperated — I just told him I wouldn't be eating with you since I have a lot to do... So goodbye...

— Try to get to the treaties talks, even if it's just for a little while — Arthur told him before turning around and heading to his room

After eating something quickly, Merlin started with his tasks.

The first thing was to do a mental review of everything that was still missing in the schedule of this royal visit... In a little while the last round of talks between Nemeth and Camelot would begin, before finishing the treaties would be written and ready to be signed first thing tomorrow morning. After that was the farewell feast. Tomorrow right after breakfast was the ceremony of signing the treaties between both kingdoms, and immediately after that Nemeth would return home.

Therefore the first thing was to make sure that everything in the throne room was ready for the talks. Let the trays with jugs of water and wine, fruits and biscuits be in their place, and let the servants assigned to the task of attending the meeting be ready.

Then he had to check everything related to the feast. Just like the feast a few days ago, he had to see that the great hall was well arranged, the servants prepared, and that Audrey had all the necessary help.

He also had to make sure that the stables had everything ready for Nemeth's departure tomorrow. Which also included asking Audrey about the food that Nemeth's people would take for the trip. He also had to coordinate with Nemeth's servants about the luggage, since they had to prepare the horses while the signing of the treaties was taking place, and that did not leave them much time to do so.

Finally, after the feast he had to help the other servants clean and tidy the great hall, and prepare it for the signing of the treaties that would take place first thing the next day.

Definitely no servant would go to bed early today. And Arthur expected him to have time to go and listen to the conversations? He was crazy...

Ah! He couldn't forget to go up to the parapet to check that there were no dark magic around

After lunch a servant sent by Merlin prepared a bath for Arthur and helped him put on his formal attire so he could attend the talks with Nemeth.

The conversations, as always, had been a bit tedious, although since they were already reaching an agreement it hadn't been as torturous to listen to as the ones the day before, and Mithian was in the room suffering with him, which made him feel a little better.

After a couple of hours, Arthur noticed how Merlin (who had apparently taken a bath and was now wearing his formal

clothes), silently entered through a service door, and without attracting anyone's attention, except Mithian, positioned himself behind Arthur.

As soon as the conversations ended, Merlin silently left through the same service door he had entered through.

Just an hour later the feast began. Just like the other night, Rick was serving Arthur at the head table and Merlin was with other servants doing minor tasks that didn't require much effort for his arm.

Merlin had been so busy that he hadn't returned to Arthur's room before the feast, so he hadn't had a chance to talk to him yet.

At the head table the conversation had turned to this morning's hunt.

— Tell me Arthur, how was the hunt? — asked Uther.

— Pretty good — answered Arthur — we got a deer, a boar and a couple of hares.

— Excellent — said Uther — Morgana, did you enjoy the hunt?

— Oh, of course I did — she replied — especially since I was able to humiliate Arthur.

— That's not true — answered Arthur immediately.

— What happened? — asked Uther

— Nothing, just that as always Morgana made the hunt a competition — answered Arthur

— And we won — answered Mithian with a smile

— Of course, you are our guest Princess — answered Arthur — I want you to enjoy the moment

— Don't try to justify yourself with chivalry Arthur — said Morgana — just admit your defeat

Before Arthur could answer, King Rodor intervened

— Arthur, is your manservant not present today?

— Merlin is still recovering from an injury, so he cannot serve us today at the main table — said Arthur, somewhat surprised by the question — but he is over there helping other servants with simpler tasks

— Oh, I see

Uther, upon hearing Rodor's question, looked at him somewhat strangely, "what did that boy do now?" He thought angrily, but seeing that Rodor did not seem upset, he preferred not to ask

When everyone had already eaten, and were simply enjoying the party, Arthur made a sign to Merlin to approach the main table

— Sire? — Merlin asked Arthur politely (after all Uther and King Rodor could hear him)

— King Rodor wants to talk to you — Arthur said

— Your majesty? — Merlin asked somewhat worried — do you need something?

— I just wanted to thank you for saving my daughter today — said Rodor with a sincere smile

Uther nearly choked on his wine when he heard Rodor, "That idiot had saved the Princess?... Well, he become a servant after saving Arthur..."

— I'm sure that Boar would have caused a lot of damage if it weren't for you — added Rodor

— Oh... There's no need to thank sire — said Merlin with a sincere smile, after exchanging glances with the Princess he added — it was a pleasure to be able to assist her

— And thank you very much for treating my hand — added Mithian

— He treated you? — asked Rodor amazed

— Yes, Merlin is the apprentice of our physician Gaius — answered Arthur

— I see — said Rodor — a man of many talents apparently

Merlin was already starting to feel somewhat nervous with the conversation, he was not used to so much flattery or so much attention. Many of the nobles who were sitting nearby had begun to pay attention to what was happening at the main table

— How is your leg? — asked Mithian, who looking at her father added — the boar wounded him when he protected me from the attack

— Are you okay? — asked Rodor

— Yes, very well — replied Merlin — it was just a scratch, nothing serious

— I'm glad, Nemeth appreciates your services Merlin — said Rodor sincerely — if one day you want to come visit us, you will be welcome

— Thanks your majesty — replied Merlin with a bow

— Thank you Merlin, you may leave — said Arthur with a smile. He did not want to expose Merlin to any more scrutiny, and even less from his father

— Sire — said Merlin respectfully and walked away, thankful that Arthur had taken him out of there

Luckily the feast ended early, which allowed the servants to begin not so late with the cleaning and transformation of the great hall.

It was after 2 am when the great hall was finally ready for the next day, and Merlin was able to go to bed.

Considering that the next day everything started early, Merlin decided to just lie down in the antechamber. He was so tired that after a quick glance at Arthur's room to make sure his brother was sleeping, he fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.

The next morning, Merlin woke up when he heard someone enter Arthur's room. He quickly headed to the main room.

— Oh... Thanks Rick — Merlin said upon entering the room and seeing the servant setting the table for breakfast — but shouldn't you be with King Rodor?

— I already brought him his breakfast — Rick replied — I noticed that you hadn't gone to get the Prince breakfast from the kitchens, and I came to make sure you were awake

— Oh, thanks Rick — Merlin replied with a sincere smile

— Yes Rick, thanks for covering his lazy ass — Arthur said, looking atMerlin he added — I didn't hear you arrive last night... what time did you finish?

— After 2 am — Merlin replied with a yawn — but at least everything was ready

— That's good — Arthur said

— Yes... But if you see any servants yawning, just ignore them... It's not their fault... Because some of them went to bed later than me... — Merlin said — or like Rick, they got up really early

— Thank you Rick — Arthur said again — After Nemeth's guests leave, you can take the rest of the day off... we'll all need to rest this afternoon... I won't be doing anything that requires your help... And Merlin can help me if I need anything

— Thank you sire — Rick said, smiling at Arthur for the permission, and at Merlin for having mentioned it to Arthur

— Rick, did you have breakfast? — Merlin asked — as he helped Rick take the breakfast things off the tray and put them on the table

— Uhm... Not yet — Rick answered

— Go eat something, I'll help Arthur — Merlin told him with a smile — thanks for bringing my breakfast and all your help

— Go Rick, use the time before you have to go back to Rodor to help him prepare — Arthur said as soon as he heard Merlin's comment — see you in the great hall

— Thank you sire — Rick said, smiling at both of them

As soon as breakfast was on the table, Rick left the room.

— So... You're a special guest of Nemeth now... — Arthur said with a smile as he ate his breakfast

— I guess... — Merlin replied — thanks for saving me last night... Did you tell King Rodor?

— No, it was Mithian — Arthur replied — and she told the story in such a way that made you look like a hero

— Ha ha... You are so funny

— Really! As soon as you left dhe told the whole heroic feat in great detail... — Arthur said — I could even see Morgana put on a disgusted face for a few seconds

— Really?

— Yes... And she repeated the story a couple of times to some ladies who came to say hello and wanted to know more details about the hero who had saved the Princess — Arthur said — at that point I don't know who was more upset, Uther or Morgana

— Was Uther upset? — Merlin asked — Great...

— Don't worry... You know he doesn't like servants to excel in anything... — Arthur replied — besides, I think Rodor would be capable of not signing the treaty if Uther tells you something

— Oh, come on, don't exaggerate... — Merlin said, standing up — hurry up, or we'll be late... And Uther will blame me, regardless of what Rodor says

Both brothers put on their formal attire, and Merlin helped Arthur put on his cape and crown.

The great hall was already full of people when they arrived. All the knights of Nemeth were there, several knights of Camelot, several nobles and members of the court.

In front of the public, there was the main table where there were four seats, for both kings and their heirs. In front of the main table there was a smaller table where the treaties that would be signed in a few minutes were already arranged.

When the time came to begin, the page announced the entrance of the kings and their heirs into the great hall.

Passing through the central corridor, the four royals went to the main table. Through the side corridors and in a hidden manner, the servants arrived at the main table to position themselves behind their respective masters.

At the main table the kings sat in the center, with their heirs at their side. The public could see from right to left Arthur, Uther, Rodor and Mithian; behind them were Merlin, Adam (Uther's servant), Rick and Gwen.

When everyone was in their place, Geoffrey began the ceremony.

The ceremony was not long, after a brief introduction by Geoffrey, Uther and Rodor gave some short speeches. After the speeches both kings signed the treaty, and to finish the four royals at the main table made a toast celebrating the friendship between both kingdoms.

As soon as the ceremony was over, Nemeth's entourage headed to the courtyard to begin their journey back, while the members of Camelot's court followed them to the main staircase to bid them farewell properly.

Nemeth's servants had everything ready, the horses were waiting ready to leave.

On the main staircase, Uther, Arthur and Morgana led the farewell committee.

— It was a pleasure to have you as guests these days — Uther said loudly so that the other members of the court could hear.

— Thank you for all the hospitality — said Rodor.

With this, both kings sealed the farewell with a handshake. Then Rodor, followed by Mithian, began to walk to say goodbye to Arthur and Morgana.

— See you later Arthur, I hope we see each other again soon — said Rodor.

— I feel the same, no Your Majesty — replied Arthur.

Before continuing towards Morgana, Rodor stopped to look at Merlin, with whom he exchanged glances and gave him a small nod while smiling.

— Morgana, it's a pleasure to meet you — said Rodor — it would be great if you could come visit us in Nemeth one day... Mithian would surely enjoy it

— I'll keep that in mind, Your Majesty — she replied with her best smile

Mithian, following his father, first said goodbye to Uther

— Thank you for the invitation, My Lord — said Mithian — Camelot is really beautiful, I enjoyed my stay here very much

— I'm glad — said Uther, very attentive to every word. It seemed that his plan was working.

— Arthur, I hope we see each other soon — said Mithian — maybe we could go hunting again.

— That would be great — answered Arthur — although this time I won't let you win.

— Hahaha, okay... — she replied with a smile.

Like her father, Mithian took a few seconds to give Merlin a smile before saying goodbye to Morgana.

— I hope you accept my father's invitation and come visit me in Nemeth — said Mithian — I'd like to show you how the dress turned out with the fabrics you helped me choose.

— Oh, that would be great — said Morgana — I'll definitely go later.

— Excellent — she replied with a smile.

With this, Nemeth's visit was over. Everyone got on their respective horses and the entourage began their journey back. Two patrols of Camelot knights accompanied the entourage, to escort them to the border.

The members of the court remained on the stairs with Uther, waiting for the entourage to disappear from sight. As soon as this happened, Uther gave permission for everyone to return to their normal activities.

— Arthur, I want to talk to you in the throne room — said Uther, turning around to go back to the castle.

— Yes, father, I'll be there in a minute — replied Arthur.

— Did something happen? — asked Merlin to Arthur in a low voice.

— I don't know... Wait for me in my room.

— Father? — said Arthur upon entering the throne room — Is everything okay?

— Yes, excellent — replied Uther — I wanted to congratulate you on all the preparations these days, everything went as it should... Even Rodor praised that everything was going so well.

— Oh, thank you, father — Arthur replied

— I'm glad you're taking your responsibilities with such dedication — Uther said — from now on you'll be in charge of the preparations for all official visits

— Oh, I understand... Thank you, father — said Arthur, who after hesitating for a few seconds added — I'd like to take all the credit, but I had a lot of help from Merlin

— What do you mean? — Uther replied, somewhat irritated. All the attention Rodor and the princess gave him last night had already been enough; he didn't want to hear any more flattery for that boy.

— Well... In order for everything to turn out perfect, I consulted with him on some things — Arthur replied — being a servant, he has knowledge of the things that must be done for a feast to be perfect

— What do you mean? What can he know that you don't? — Uther replied, more irritated

— Preparing the feast is not just about setting tables and sitting down to eat... You have to polish the cutlery, plates, trays, jugs and cups; iron the tablecloths and napkins; decorate the hall; organize the servants and their duties; assign extra servants to help in the kitchen... — answered Arthur, remembering what Merlin had told him the other day — ...something similar happens with the rooms for the guests, when preparing them you have to think about every detail...

Uther didn't answer, he simply frowned.

— Once Merlin explained these things to me I was able to determine what things should be done and when — said Arthur. Noticing that his father was getting upset, he decided to downplay Merlin a bit, so that it wouldn't result in a reprimand for his brother — with the list of tasks in hand, Merlin made sure that everything I had said was done, and well done — to further lessen Uther's anger he added a small lie — Later I checked myself that everything was done well... and just as you said, it was.

— I see — Uther replied, still somewhat annoyed, but not wanting to argue with Arthur, he didn't want to ruin the progress made in his plan about the Princess — it seems your servant is not so useless...

— It seems not — Arthur replied, not wanting to force the situation any further

— It is good that you know to delegate some tasks

— Thanks

— How did everything turn out with Princess Mithian? — Uther asked casually — were you able to get along?

— Yes, very well — answered Arthur — I can assure you that the ties between our kingdoms have been strengthened

Arthur was not going to tell Uther the fact that the Princess had gotten along better with Merlin than with him, but with Merlin being a Prince of Camelot, his comment was not really a lie

— Excellent — answered Uther — that will be very helpful when you become king

— How did it go? — asked Merlin as soon as Arthur entered the room — what did he want?

— Good... He wanted to congratulate me for the preparations... He said that everything went perfectly

— Oh...

— So congratulations — said Arthur — you really did it Merlin

— Uhm... Thank you

— I told Uther that a lot of it was thanks to you

— You told him that? Why?

— Because it's true... — Arthur said — I had nothing to do with planning anything... I literally did nothing

— You told him that?

— Of course not... As soon as I mentioned you he started to get upset... So I had to lie and say that I had asked you for advice on what we should do, that I gave you a list of tasks and then supervised that you did everything right... — Arthur said — but it wasn't fair to accept all the glory

— Oh... — Merlin said, somewhat disappointed that Uther was upset just by being named.

Not that Merlin really expected Uther to love and accept him as a son... But he couldn't help that unconscious feeling of disappointment knowing that Uther detested him so much that he get upset just by hearing his name

— Hey, you did very well, that's the important thing — Arthur replied, noticing Merlin's tone of voice — in fact, from now on every time there is an official visit, we are the ones in charge

— Really?

— Yeah... You really impressed him, even if he doesn't accept it

— Thanks — Merlin said with a smile

— Actually, even Rodor tell him that he was impress of how perfect everything was — Arthur said — so, please congratulate all the servants for me too

— I'll do that — said Merlin with a smile

— So... How was Nemeth's visit? — Morgause asked Morgana

It was already night, and the sisters were gathered in their usual place in the forest

— Well, I think...

— You think? What happened?

— The Princess really believed that I wanted to be her friend, just as we had planned — Morgana said — in fact she invited me to visit her... But

— But?

— Merlin! As always Merlin ruining everything!

— What did he do now? — asked Morgause

— He saved the Princess from the attack of a wild boar... And he left her in awe with his charm — said Morgana — the Princess spent the entire feast repeating Merlin's heroic feat... Even Rodor thanked him

— I see... — answered Morgause — don't worry, we'll soon get rid of that annoying servant

— I can wait...

.

i hope you like it