Reel_Merlin fic: The Prince's Speech Part 4/4

[a8c_sock]

The Prince's Speech Part 4

masterpost, part 3.

Three days after Arthur's coronation the inevitable happened. Mercia invaded the Western Isles in a direct act of war. Arthur was sitting at his desk reviewing his first reports as king when the news came through. The whole palace erupted in chaos.

“You must make an announcement,” Geoffrey said, as they walked through the hallways crowded with governmental aides. “As soon as possible. The people are restless and the rumours are spreading.”

“W...what about our forces?” Arthur asked. He had barely begun to read the reports on where the army and navy were currently stationed.

“The HMSA Wyvern is in the area and the army have been readied for months” Geoffrey said. “We expected this, as you know, Sir.”

“I know,” Arthur said.

Geoffrey handed Arthur a piece of paper. “We have a speech prepared. You're live on the radio in an hour.”

Arthur took it and stared at the words. He had just an hour to read over them, understand them and work them into his brain. He felt he had little chance. “I'll be... ready,” he said. Already he could feel his chest tighten at the prospect of making a speech with such little preparation time.

As soon as Geoffrey had departed Arthur headed down to the garage, the paper clutched in his hand. Along the way he had to dodge several ministers eager for a quick word but he waved them on. He didn't have time to talk to them.

Lower down he saw the cables being run to and from the equipment needed to put on a live radio broadcast. His heart was beating in his ears. Every thud of a cable seemed to reverberate. Luckily, the technicians were too busy to notice as they hastily assembled their equipment.

When Arthur reached the garage he found his driver, Percival, shining the bonnet of the Royal car. He was concentrated on his task and Arthur felt almost impolite when he coughed to get the man's attention.

“Sir?” Percival asked, standing up straight, his arm held awkwardly like a cadet not sure if he should salute.

“I need you to go... and find Merlin... and bring him back here,” Arthur said. “As... soon as you can.”

Without asking for any further explanation Percival got into the car, still clutching his cleaning rag in his hand.

Arthur hoped he would be in time.

As he walked back through the palace he tried to block out the sounds of the chaos. He looked instead at the paper with the speech on it. It had been typed up hastily, some of the letters were slightly smudged and Arthur was glad that at least he wasn't the only one taken by surprise.

“Are you all right, Arthur?” came the familiar, and dreaded, voice of his uncle.

“Yes, Uncle. Just... reading.”

Tristan glanced down at the paper. “Ah yes, terrible news. I've been speaking to Geoffrey to personally offer my support during this difficult time. So soon into your reign too.”

“I am sure... we can have a... successful outcome.” Arthur was not going to let his nerves show to his uncle, though he feared his stammer was doing the job for him. Luckily he was saved by Morgana's arrival.

“Ah, Arthur, there you are. I've been looking everywhere for you. Gaius needs to speak to you urgently,” she said, tugging a little at his arm as if to reinforce her words.

“I must go. Thank you for your... support, Uncle,” Arthur said, turning to go with Morgana.

“It's always there for you,” Tristan called.

As Morgana led him away Arthur whispered to her. “What does Gaius need to see me about?”

“He doesn't,” Morgana said. “I thought you should wait for Merlin in your office. I'll get him through the crowds without anyone noticing.”

“How did you know I'd... sent for Merlin?” Arthur asked.

“A sister has insights,” Morgana replied. “Your first speech with no time to prepare? Who else are you going to send for?”

Arthur smiled as they went into his office. “Thank you.”

“Thank me by making a great speech that stops Tristan from making comments about your fitness to rule.”

“I'll try,” Arthur replied.

Morgana nodded and left him sitting in the chair that had once been his father's. The atmosphere in his office wasn't helping. The presence of his father was everywhere; in the furniture, the pictures, the photographs, and the memories Arthur had of coming into the room when he was young, usually to be berated for some little thing or other.

Putting those thoughts out of his mind he placed the speech on his desk and waited.

*****************************************************************************

Across the city Merlin was in his rooms finishing up writing some notes on Freya's case. The shy girl was really beginning to do well. Her parents had offered to pay for treatment but, knowing they couldn't afford it, Merlin had turned them down. She wasn't the only patient he saw for free. One of those he saw for free wasn't even a patient at all anymore.

In a way Merlin missed Arthur's visits to his rooms. He missed seeing Arthur so out of place amongst the shabby furniture and the look on his face as he was asked to lie down, or roll around the floor. That had been the Arthur he had fallen in love with and, though he was completely in love with the Arthur he knew now, he couldn't help but miss that.

Jolting him out of his thoughts was the sound of the telephone brining. Not an unusual occurrence but it happened less often than Merlin would have liked. Calls meant clients so he was never annoyed when it rang.

“Hello, Merlin Emerson, speech therapist.”

“Merlin, thank gods you’re there.”

Merlin recognised the voice at once. “Gwaine? Why are you calling?”

“Mercia has invaded the Western Isles. We're at war, and you know what that means.”

“What?” Merlin knew war meant a lot of things but he was confused.

“Your Arthur is going to have to make a speech.”

Immediately Merlin sat up in his chair. “When?”

Gwaine lowered his voice. “Word here is the king is due to make a speech within the hour.”

“I need to be with him.”

“Lancelot is ready to come and pick you up.”

Merlin was about to tell Lancelot to come as soon as he could when he heard a car engine outside. He recognised the croon of the engine as he would the voice of a patient. It was Arthur’s car, few others could even afford to own a car that would make such a noise.

“Hold on,” Merlin said, leaving the phone and going over to the window. The view outside confirmed what he had thought. He raced back over to the desk and picked up the phone again. “Arthur's car has just pulled up outside. I'll talk to you later,” he said.

“Good luck, Merlin,” Gwaine replied.

Merlin began to sort out his papers, putting them in files, and making sure he left nothing out that was confidential. He'd just closed the file when there was a knock on his door. Merlin grabbed his coat before he opened it.

He was surprised to see Arthur's driver standing in front of him, he had half been expecting Arthur himself. He'd got to know the man quite well. Well enough that he at least remembered his name. “Percival?”

“The king requests your presence immediately,” Percival said.

That was all it took for Merlin to fling on his coat, go out into the hall and shut the door behind him.

“Is this about the war with Mercia?” Merlin asked as they made their way to the lift.

“The palace is in uproar.”

Merlin squeezed into the lift beside Percival. Percival was not a small man and it was a tight squeeze. “How soon can we be there?”

“Ten minutes. Don't worry,” Percival smiled as the lift started to move.

Percival was as good as his word. As they drove through the streets they seemed oddly deserted. Obviously word had got out that the King was due to make a formal announcement. Merlin found himself trying not to think about the millions of people who would likely be crowding around their wireless sets in the upcoming hour.

As they pulled up in the garage of the palace the Lady Morgana was waiting. “Arthur needs you,” was all she said.

“That's what I'm here for,” Merlin replied, and he followed her out of the garage and into the palace itself.

Percival hadn't been exaggerating when he's said the place was in uproar. There were masses of people everywhere. Merlin was quite grateful his own passage through the palace went relatively unnoticed as Morgana and he weaved in between the people and cables.

They stopped outside a grand looking door. Merlin had no idea where they were. All the corridors looked the same.

“He's in there,” Morgana said, placing her hand on the door knob. “Good luck,” she added, and opened the door.

****************************************************************************

Arthur was on his feet as soon as he heard the door open. The sight of Merlin flooded him with a sense of relief. The room no longer seemed as intimidating, and his speech no longer seemed like an impossible task. Arthur practically threw his arms around Merlin's neck and embraced him.

“Thank gods you're here, Merlin,” he said.

Slowly Arthur released him. “Arthur, are you all right?” Merlin asked, cupping Arthur's cheek.

Arthur shook his head and went over to the desk. “I have to give this... speech,” he said, picking up the piece of paper and glancing up at the clock, “ in... thirty five minutes. And I’ve not even tried to... to say it.”

Merlin was rubbing his back, soothing him gently. “It's okay, Arthur. Just stay calm and I'll see what we can do with this.”

Nodding, Arthur handed over the speech. Merlin plucked a pencil from his desk and began the process of editing it. Arthur watched the clock carefully, trying to will the minute hand to be still. It moved, but not so quickly as to send Arthur into a panic.

“Here,” Merlin said. “It's not perfect but I think it will do.”

Arthur looked at Merlin's little pencil scrawls, already running the pauses through his mind. “I'm not sure I can... do this,” Arthur said. Feeling the words stick in his throat before he'd even spoken them.

“Don't rush it,” Merlin said. “One word at a time. Breathe, pause and you'll be fine.”

Arthur glanced up at the clock and saw the minute hand now racing toward the moment where he would have to speak, or try to. “I need you... there,” Arthur said. “In the room.”

“Arthur, you know people are going to ask questions.”

“Let them... ask,” Arthur replied.

“All right, now, read it out and bounce into the words.”

Arthur nodded and began to read. “In this... grave hour...”

“Breathe, pause,” Merlin said.

“I speak to you... the peoples of Albion... and her... Empire...” Arthur could feel himself unable to slow down. The air wouldn't come and his throat felt as if it was closing up.

Merlin was rubbing his back. “You can do this, Arthur, just relax. One word at a time.”

After several attempts Arthur had made it haltingly to the end of his speech. He had stumbled over several sections, but Merlin was not able to edit out a lot of the harder to form sounds. You really couldn't say war without a 'w'. It was a struggle and Arthur felt powerless as the clock moved toward the hour.

There was a knock on the door. “Arthur, it's time,” Morgana said, poking her head around the door.

Looking at Merlin Arthur stepped out. “Stay with me,” he whispered to Merlin as he clutched the speech tightly.

Morgana led them both through the corridors and, as people looked at him, Arthur felt like a condemned man. Here were the faces of his people, all expecting their king, their leader, to offer up a great speech, to relay important news through the Empire. It was a sobering thought and Arthur hoped the ink wouldn't smudge as his palms began to sweat.

He caught sight of Leon among the many people milling around. It didn't take long for Leon to notice him. “Your highness,” he said, walking over to keep up with Arthur.

“Good to... see you, Leon,” Arthur said.

“We're behind you, Sir,” Leon said. “Good luck.”

There was a brief glance as Leon seemed to notice, and then recognise, Merlin.

“Thank you,” Arthur said. “I hope to... talk to you later.”

Leon nodded and went off to take his place among the other military representatives.

After passing through rooms full of dignitaries they came to a small room at the back of the palace that had been rigged up for the broadcast with a microphone and drapes to muffle any outside noise. It looked like a small cell, or a trap, as far as Arthur was concerned.

“Who is this?” Geoffrey asked, catching sight of Merlin.

“Merlin, my... speech therapist,” Arthur replied. “He'll be with me... when I read my speech.”

Geoffrey looked as if he was about to make some sort of objection but it was Gaius who spoke first. “I see no reason not to allow the King to have whomever he chooses with him in the room,” he said.

Arthur gave Geoffrey his most defiant kingly stare.

“Of course, yes, he is welcome.”

“Thank you,” Arthur said, and he led the way into the room.

Merlin softly closed the door behind them as Arthur laid out the speech on the lectern in front of the microphone.

“Forget about them,” Merlin said. “Just say it to me.”

Arthur nodded and then felt himself freeze as the light began to blink at him, taunting him. Merlin pulled his jacket off and covered the light. Arthur couldn't see it but Merlin was keeping an eye on it, peeking under the jacket. Without the light to distract him Arthur began to relax a little. He took a few deep breaths and evened out his breathing.

As he looked up Merlin began to count down with his fingers. Three, two, one, and then he pointed at Arthur, mouthing the words 'speak'.

For a moment Arthur didn't know how to speak. His tongue felt as if it wasn’t his own, and his throat felt tight. He noticed Merlin pointing at himself. All he had to do was say it to Merlin. The microphone was immaterial. He looked Merlin straight in the eye before looking down at the words. Closing his eyes for a moment Arthur pictured Merlin, and when he opened them he began to speak.

“In this grave hour... ” he paused, testing out the next sounds in his head before he spoke them. “I speak to you,” brief pause, “the peoples of Albion and her Empire this message.” Now he could pause more naturally and take a breath. “Spoken with the same depth...” pause before the 'f' sounds, “of feeling for each one of you,” take a breath, “as if I were able to speak to you in person.” Another natural pause and Arthur looked up to see Merlin smiling. “I must tell you...” pause “the solemn news,” another pause to bounce off into the 'w's sounds. “that we are at w...war.” Arthur paused, aware he had rushed the words a little. “We have tried to find...” he took a breath. “a peaceful way,” another pause following the 'w ', “out of the differences between ourselves and our...” pause for emphasis “enemies,” another pause and a quick breath. “But we have been forced into a conflict,” another pause, “ for we are called to meet the challenge of a principle...” quick pause, “that might is right.” Another longer pause and Arthur began to find his rhythm. Merlin was still smiling. “We have a duty to protect those...” pause, “weaker than us,” another beat, “and it is unthinkable that we should refuse... ” quick pause, “to meet the challenge.” Merlin was moving his finger about, reminding Arthur not to lose his rhythm. “This is the high purpose that means I now call...” pause to bounce into the next bit “my... people to stand hard and firm and united,” pause and a quick breath “in this time of trial.” Another pause and now Arthur could see the end. “The task will be hard...” pause, “and there may be dark days...” quick pause, “ahead,” Arthur bounced onto his next bit “but we can only do the right,” pause and a breath, “as we see the right.” A natural pause and Merlin gave him a thumbs up. “If one and all keep resolutely faithful to it..” pause, “then with the gods' help” one last pause before the final emphasis, “we shall... prevail.”

With the words out Arthur relaxed, and tried not to be too loud with his sigh of relief. Merlin removed his jacket with a flourish and they waited until the red light blinked off. Once it had done so Arthur felt himself trembling a little. His ordeal was over, for the moment.

Merlin was quick to hug him. “You did it,” he said. “I knew you would.”

“Thanks to you,” Arthur replied.

As they stepped out Arthur was met by applause and congratulations.

“Wonderful speech, Sir,” Geoffrey was saying. “I was on the edge of my seat.”

“Your father would be proud,” Gaius added.

“Well done, Sir,” Leon said.

Throughout all the handshakes and congratulations Arthur kept his eye on Merlin. He was standing awkwardly, his gaze fixed on Arthur. It didn't matter what anyone else thought of his speech. Merlin was looking proud and that told Arthur he'd done a good job.

After a quick photo session of Arthur pretending to read his speech at his desk Arthur had to do the balcony moment. Morgana was waiting for him. As a member of the Royal family she too was there to show herself to the people.

“You did well, Arthur,” she whispered. “We knew you would.”

“Thank you,” Arthur replied. Taking a deep breath he stepped out onto the balcony, Morgana holding back a little, as if this moment was solely for Arthur. He was met by roaring cheering.

He stood on the palace balcony looking down at crowds of people who had gathered in front of Camelot's gates. As he waved to them Merlin was standing just out of view by the window. Arthur one day hoped that he could bring Merlin with him onto the balcony and still be met by cheering.

With the sounds of a grateful people ringing in his ears, Arthur retired to his office with Merlin. Luckily everyone was so pleased with the results of his speech that they didn't question Arthur's need for a bit of space, or his need to have Merlin with him. They were able to go there mostly unnoticed.

Once they were in his office Merlin hugged him again. Arthur let himself relax into their embrace, letting Merlin soothe the tension out of him now the ordeal was over.

“I knew you could do it,” Merlin whispered. He pulled back. “And did you see all those people out there?”

“Yes, Merlin, I did. I stood in front of them.”

“Sorry,” Merlin said, pursing his lips.

“Don't be,” Arthur whispered, and he pressed his lips to Merlin's. It was nothing more than a chaste kiss but it gave Arthur a thrill to be able to kiss Merlin in the palace. The speech had been a success. Merlin deserved it.

He was just wondering about perhaps making the kiss a little less chaste when a cough from the doorway caused Arthur to practically jump out of Merlin's arms.

“I hope I'm not interrupting.” Lord Tristan said, as he stood by the door. “I just wanted to congratulate you on a great speech, Arthur.”

“Thank you... Uncle,” Arthur said, standing back from Merlin.

“I'll leave you to your... celebrations,” Tristan said, smiling in the same way Arthur had seen him do before he took apart a political opponent.

Arthur watched with a mixture of anger and fear. He made sure Tristan had completely closed the door. He didn't even breathe until he could hear his uncle's footsteps going off down the hall.

“He knows,” Arthur said, as he began pacing the floor, glancing anxiously at Merlin. “My uncle knows about us.”

“You don't know what he saw,” Merlin said, putting a hand on Arthur's shoulder.

Arthur shrugged it off. He didn't deserve any sympathy, not from Merlin, not when he'd stupidly put Merlin in danger.

“He saw enough,” Arthur said. “He knows what you... mean to me. You don't... know him, Merlin. I don't want you... hurt.”

Now Merlin placed two hands on Arthur's shoulders. This time Arthur, despite his guilt, didn't shrug them off. He was adept at the hints Merlin was giving him and the hint now was that Merlin wanted to comfort him.

“It's you I'm worried about,” Merlin said. “It's your throne he's after.”

“He won't... get it,” Arthur said. “And if he goes after you... he will... regret it.”

Merlin kissed his cheek. “You've already got one war to fight, Arthur. Don't let him force you into another.”

“Do you not think I'll win?”

“Of course you will but you need to be strong for your people, not your uncle.”

Arthur understood the sentiment. He had seen his father under strain during the wars that had taken place under his reign. He had seen the toll war could have on a king, but more importantly he had seen the toll on his family life, and the ones he loved. “I'm strong for you,” Arthur said, quietly.

There was a scuffling movement outside the door. “I should go,” Merlin said, quietly. “Promise me you'll call me if you need me, Arthur?”

Arthur nodded. “Of course. Can't do this... without you.”

Merlin smiled. “We'll get through this” he said.

Arthur wished he shared his optimism. He didn't even dare kiss Merlin goodbye. They had to settle for a quick squeeze of each other's hands and a half embrace. It was less than Merlin deserved and Arthur cursed his uncle for making it so.

*****************************************************************************

When he got back to the house, Merlin was in relatively high spirits. He was trying to put the incident with Tristan out of his mind. He was not going to let Arthur be distracted by his uncle's machinations. He had no doubt Lord Du Bois was up to something but Albion had just declared war and Arthur had bigger things to worry about.

Merlin went into the kitchen to find Lancelot and Gwaine talking about something. He wasn't able to catch any of the conversation before they saw him in the doorway.

“What did you think?” Merlin asked. “Of Arthur's speech,” he added, in case there was any doubt.

“The King spoke very well,” Lancelot said.

“And we all know that's down to you,” Gwaine added.

“It's not just me. Arthur is determined, devoted. His sense of duty to his people...”

“Spoken like a man in love,” Lancelot said, interrupting.

“That obvious?”

Gwaine and Lancelot both nodded.

Pulling the other chair out from the table Merlin sat down. “The only problem is Lord Tristan knows.”

“Lord Tristan Du Bois knows you're the king's lover?” Gwaine asked.

The use of lover was unusually poetic from Gwaine and Merlin looked at him a little surprised.

“Lover?” Merlin asked.

“You're not married yet,” Gwaine muttered.

“And we might never be if Arthur's uncle has his way.”

“Arthur is the king,” Lancelot said. “Surely he can't...”

“He can,” Gwaine said.

Merlin tapped the kitchen table. “Arthur has other things to worry about. We're at war.”

“We noticed,” Gwaine said, looking down at Merlin's tapping fingers.

“It will be all right, Merlin,” Lancelot said.

Aware his friends were still looking at his fingers Merlin stopped. “Yeah it will be,” he said. “It will be fine.”

****************************************************************************

Sitting down at his desk, Arthur was going over the latest reports from the front-line. The war was less than twenty four hours old but already it was getting bloody. There had been casualties on both sides, although Arthur was relieved that the Albion Navy had suffered fewer losses than its Mercian counterpart. For now the battle lines were being drawn out at sea, a ground assault would follow victory there.

As Arthur was signing a request for another two ships to join the Wyvern and the rest of the fleet, Geoffrey strode into his office with several aides at his side.

“Sir,” he said, holding out an official looking piece of paper.

Unsure as to what was going on Arthur took it. “What is this?” he asked, as he began to break the red wax seal. He had barely begun to comprehend what he was reading before Geoffrey spoke.

“You are officially summoned before members of the senior court. We have some concerns regarding your relationship with a Mr Merlin Emerson.”

“Merlin?” Arthur stood up, not wanting to confront a government minister whilst sitting down. “How did you...?”

“Your uncle brought the matter to our attention,” Geoffrey said. “As you can see everything is in order.”

“I am sure my uncle was...” Arthur paused. “Most helpful.”

“Sir, I suggest that you attend and prepare yourself to answer some very difficult questions,” Geoffrey said.

“I'll be ready,” Arthur replied.

Nodding, Geoffrey marched out of the office as quickly as he had entered, tailed by his aides and leaving Arthur to contemplate the document in his hands. The move had come as a surprise, mostly because of the timing. Arthur was the King leading his people through a war and his Uncle Tristan wanted to usurp him now?

As he held the paper it began to crease in his grip. Arthur marched out of his office with as much purpose as Geoffrey had done, and went to find his uncle.

He found his uncle in the drawing room, sitting in the armchair that had been Arthur's father's favourite when he was alive. He was drinking brandy and looking over what seemed to be official government documents which he'd spread across the settee in front of him, using it as makeshift desk.

Feeling his ire rise Arthur came to stand in front of his uncle. His anger made his throat feel constricted and his chest feel tight but he was not going to let the insult go. “What is the... meaning of... this?” he asked, holding up the summons.

Tristan leaned back in his chair and swirled his brandy in his glass. “I thought the government would be interested to discover their king was involved with another man.”

“And...why is... that?” Arthur asked.

“You should not be king,” Tristan said, simply. “I was trying to prove your parents' marriage was invalid, but this is a much better reason. King Arthur having an affair with a lowly commoner and not just any commoner, an English teacher who thinks he's a speech therapist.”

“Merlin is a... speech therapist,” Arthur ground out. He was not going to let his uncle insult Merlin.

“Not according to the Royal College of Physicians. He has no medical qualifications,” Tristan said, before holding up a letter he'd plucked from his pile of papers. “I checked.”

“He doesn't need... them.”

“Really? I wonder what the people would say if they found out you were involved with a quack.”

“Merlin... is not a... quack!”

“Yet he has no qualifications to speak of,” Tristan said, placing the letter back down.

“How dare you!” Arthur said. He had known his uncle was capable of anything but this was low, even for him.

“I can dare of course. A relationship between the two of you is ridiculous,” Tristan took a swig of his brandy.

“It's not forbidden by law.”

Tristan smirked. “Do you honestly think you can remain king and keep him?”

Arthur felt his nails digging into his palm. “He makes me a... better king.”

“Really? Perhaps you'll change your mind tomorrow. When the court convenes.”

“Why did you... c...call them? Now?”

Leaning back his uncle looked pleased. “I am perfectly within my rights to do so.”

“You can't do this... not now...” His uncle’s timing was possibly the worst part of his treasonous act.

“I have, Arthur. Perhaps if you hadn't been so busy with your little therapist boyfriend you might have realised how unsuitable you are.”

“There is no-one.... more unsuitable... than you.” Arthur said, glaring down at his uncle who seemed unconcerned.

“Listen to yourself. You can’t even speak properly. Proof your therapist hasn't worked.”

Arthur couldn't calm himself, but he did take a deep breath. “Merlin has done more for me... than... anyone else. He's worth a dozen courtiers.... and a hundred.... of you. I am not giving him up for... anyone.”

“And what about your throne?”

Glancing over at the mantelpiece Arthur could see a photograph of his father. “As long as there is breath in.... my body I will stop someone like you becoming.... k...king. I rule for the people not... over them.”

“We will see how you fare tomorrow,” Tristan said, not even bothering to look at Arthur but turning back to the documents he'd been reading.

“We shall,” Arthur replied, already walking to the door.

He wished he could have said something more, hit his uncle with one of the many hard objects cluttering the room, but he knew it wouldn't help him. Still, Arthur nursed his anger and resolved that he needed to speak to Merlin. Without caring who saw him leave Arthur decided to head to the garage.

As he stormed down the palace corridors Arthur bumped into his sister. He hadn't seen Morgana since after the balcony moment. He didn't actually stop, just muttered his apology for bumping into her and carried on.

Morgana, however, was not to be dissuaded and began to follow him.

“Arthur, where are you going?”

“I need to... speak to Merlin,” Arthur said, his fists still tightly curled up. “Immediately.”

“What's happened?”

“Uncle Tristan has called me... before the court tomorrow so they can... interrogate me about my relationship with Merlin.”

“He can't do that.”

“I've been issued with a decree of attendance Morgana,” Arthur replied, waving the dreaded edict toward her. “I don't have a choice.”

“He can't do this to you. And now? We're at war and he's trying to usurp the throne?”

“He's... selfish. That's all he is.”

“Don’t let him win.”

Arthur gritted his teeth. “I'm not going to.”

*****************************************************************************

There was nothing more relaxing than listening to a good band on the wireless, Merlin thought. For once even Gwaine was relaxing and enjoying the music of 'Nimueh and the Magic Band' as he tried his hand at a crossword. Lancelot was busy reading a book of poetry, no doubt in preparation for another love letter to Gwen. Merlin darned his socks and reflected on Arthur's success.

The peaceful quiet atmosphere was interrupted by a loud banging on their front door.

“Expecting anyone?” Gwaine asked.

Lancelot shook his head. “No, you?”

“I'm not either,” Merlin said, putting his socks down.

Gwaine put the newspaper down. “I'm not,” he said.

The three of them stood up and went to the door. Lancelot and Gwaine went first, almost jostling for position as to who opened the door, and Merlin let them, holding back a little. It was probably some sort of salesman, he thought.

As Gwaine beat Lancelot to the door and opened it, Merlin realised it wasn't a salesman.

“Arthur?”

“Your Highness,” Gwaine and Lancelot chorused.

“I need to speak to Merlin,” Arthur said, looking past the two men who had opened the door. In a move very unlike Arthur, he practically barged his way in.

Gwaine and Lancelot, taken aback, stood to one side and let Arthur past.

“It's urgent,” Arthur said to Merlin, holding up a piece of paper. “I've been... summoned in front of... the council.”

“I think I need to speak to Arthur alone,” Merlin said, over Arthur's shoulder.

Lancelot and Gwaine both nodded. “We'll leave you to it,” Gwaine said, and the two of them went upstairs.

Merlin took Arthur through into the kitchen. He could tell Arthur was agitated. He was clutching the paper so hard it looked as if it would be barely readable. Arthur's hands were fisted and he stalked around the kitchen like a cat looking for prey. He had never seen Arthur this angry before.

“Arthur, what happened?”

“Tristan, he's making a... play for the throne. My throne,” Arthur said, his cheeks flushed.

“Now? When we've just begun a war?”

Arthur threw his head back and gave a hollow laugh. “That's my uncle.”

“But he can't.”

“He wants to use our... relationship as... proof I'm unfit to rule.” The anger seemed to go out of Arthur as he slumped against the kitchen wall.

“Oh Arthur...” Merlin said, coming over to put an arm around Arthur. He led him to one of the kitchen chairs and helped him sit down.

“It's underhanded... dishonourable,” Arthur said, looking at the kitchen table.

“What are you going to do?” Merlin asked, taking the seat next to Arthur's.

Arthur looked up and made eye contact. “I'm not giving you up, Merlin. I... can't.”

“But Arthur you’re the king.”

“And if it comes down to you and the... throne... I'd choose you. I always will.”

There was such earnestness in Arthur's face. Not for the first time Merlin realised how much Arthur loved him. The love of a king though was a difficult thing. “Arthur, I don't...” Merlin paused. “You are a great king.”

“A king is only as great as the... people he loves,” Arthur said, placing his hand on Merlin’s. “I wouldn't... be here at all if it wasn't for you.”

Merlin smiled. “I don't want to be selfish. I want to tell you that the throne matters more than me and you should give me up but,” he paused. “I don't think I can any more, Arthur.”

“That doesn't make you a... bad person, Merlin. It makes you human.”

“Whatever you decide, Arthur, I'll still love you.”

“I know,” Arthur said, quietly. “That doesn’t make it... easier.”

Although Arthur had told Merlin he was happy to spend a night away from the palace, Merlin decided the last thing Lord Du Bois needed was more evidence on Arthur.

“I'm not having him suggest I'm keeping you from your duty,” Merlin said.

Arthur had seen the reasoning of that. Their kiss had had a slightly bittersweet tinge. Merlin hated to think that something as good as love could be the cause of so much strife.

“Do you want me there tomorrow?” Merlin asked.

“I need you there,” Arthur replied. “But it might give Tristan... ideas.”

“I'll stay away,” Merlin said. He understood what Arthur meant. No doubt Tristan would argue Merlin was a bad influence and if he were actually there it would reflect badly.

“As soon as it's... over. I'll come to you,” Arthur said. “My... mother's flat. I'll meet you there at lunchtime.”

Merlin nodded. “I'll be there.”

With another kiss Arthur bade farewell. As soon as the sound of his car had gone off into the distance, Gwaine and Lancelot came down the stairs.

“Is King Arthur in trouble?” Lancelot asked. “We heard voices.”

Lancelot was too noble to admit the two of them had eavesdropped.

“You were right about Lord Tristan Du Bois,” Merlin said. “He's summoned Arthur before the council over our relationship.”

“That sneaky bastard,” Gwaine said. “Trying to steal his nephew's throne in the middle of a bloody war.”

“I know,” Merlin said. “But Arthur's not going to let him.”

“What about your relationship?” Lancelot asked.

“Arthur's going to fight for it.”

Lancelot smiled. “Good. You deserve him to.”

Gwaine slapped Merlin on the back. “Come on, we'll get you a stiff drink.”

Merlin was glad of Gwaine's suggestion in the end, as the excess of whiskey at least helped him to sleep. He couldn't stop thinking about Arthur and what he would face in the morning. He found himself cursing Lord Du Bois. In the morning Arthur would be facing interrogation but he wouldn't be alone, not whilst Merlin had love in his heart. He might not be there physically but in every way that mattered he would be.

****************************************************************************

On the morning of the summons before the court Arthur ate little breakfast. He picked at his bacon and his eggs seemed a congealed mess by the time he had finished. He managed a few bites of toast but the honey felt as if it was sticking in his throat. His tea he drank cold and he drew no comfort from it.

Morgana was not allowed to accompany him to the council chambers but she hugged him before he left. It didn't help him feel any less like a condemned man. Still, he thanked her.

The journey to the council chambers was but a short walk away. Arthur felt conspicuous dressed in his uniform. It was a time of war and the King was head of the armed forces. He wore his naval uniform with pride. His medal ribbons stood out as a sea of colour. Proof that his actions were duty bound and honourable. He hoped that would be remembered.

He reached the council chambers in plenty of time, the grandeur of government all around him. His ancestors stared out from paintings, their beady eyes examining the latest successor to the throne. It was not the ghosts of the past that would deem him worthy, however, but the spirits of the present.

As the clock struck ten he was called into the chamber. The heavy oak doors were opened and Arthur stepped into a room steeped in history. Among the stone columns and around the table in front of him many decisions had been made. The very history of Albion had been echoed in the four walls around him.

The assembled council stood at the back of the long table used for council debates. Among them were Geoffrey and his uncle. There was one friendly face however; Gaius. The old physician had been made part of the council by Uther in recognition of loyal service. Arthur was grateful to see him. Gaius had always been fair in his judgements.

It was Geoffrey who brought the session to order as he read from a scroll, his copy of the summons Arthur had received. “King Arthur, you have been summoned before this chamber to face the accusation of Lord Tristan Du Bois that you are engaged in a love affair with a commoner.”

Arthur saw Geoffrey's mouth open for the next part of his speech but he ignored it. Arthur's throat felt loose, he felt confident. The only tightness in his chest was his heart beating. “I am.”

It took a moment for Geoffrey to recover his shock. “You do not deny the charge then?”

“To deny it,” Arthur paused. “Would dishonour myself, my feelings,” he paused again. “And Mr Merlin Emerson.”

Geoffrey scanned the scroll in front of him. “He is the man named in your uncle's disposition. You are involved with him?”

“I am.” Arthur nodded firmly.

“And you see nothing wrong with this?” Geoffrey still looked surprised.

“I see nothing,” Arthur carefully paused. “wrong with falling in love,” he let the word sink in, “with another person.”

“He has no pedigree, no standing at court. He is an outsider, an interloper. Do you deny this?”

Arthur felt himself stand up straighter. “The only accusation I... will deny is that which suggests Merlin is anything less than a good man.” Arthur took a breath. “He has supported me... through difficult times.

“When did this affair begin?”

“Our acquaintance,” Arthur corrected, refusing to acknowledge his relationship with Merlin as a mere affair, “began before my father's death.”

“And how did you meet?” Geoffrey asked.

Arthur could see the scribe taking everything down, his quill moving furiously.

“We met... when I requested Merlin to help me with my... speech.”

“He claims to be a speech therapist.”

“That is correct,” Arthur said, slowly. “He has helped me. I could not face you gentlemen today... without his help.” Arthur could feel the pressure and his speech was beginning to suffer but he refused to let it get to him.

“That remains to be seen. So you deny nothing?”

“Are you honourable gentlemen hoping I... will?” Arthur asked.

The court began to murmur amongst itself, as if it could hardly believe that Arthur was even admitting to any of this.

“This is a grave situation, Your Highness. Such a dilemma has not occurred in the hundreds of years this council has been in existence,” Geoffrey said.

Arthur looked at each of the members of the court in turn. “I see no dilemma here. “

Geoffrey coughed, as a teacher might cough in a classroom. “You believe that this Mr Emerson makes a suitable royal consort?”

“I believe he is more suitable than any man I have ever... met.”

Again for a moment Geoffrey appeared lost for words. “The council must deliberate the evidence before us.”

“Very well. I'll await your verdict,” Arthur said. “Am I free to... leave?” Arthur asked the question deliberately. Not even the council could dismiss a king and nor should they try.

“We have asked our questions,” Geoffrey replied. “You are free to leave.”

Arthur bowed and left, hearing the doors close loudly behind him.

For the next hour he waited under the gaze of his forbears. Sometimes he sat, resigned, other times he paced. He stared up at the newest portrait in the room; that of his father. What would he have thought of this? Of Merlin? Arthur had no real idea. He suspected his father wouldn’t approve but he needed no-one to approve of his feelings. Not anymore.

The clock read five past eleven by the time the council emerged. All walked past Arthur, their heads bowed, none of them even attempting to make eye contact. All except one. One member of the council stayed behind and stood next to Arthur.

“Gaius? What did they... say?” Arthur asked, his curiosity and nerves growing in equal measure.

“They support Tristan's claim. They believe Merlin is unfit as a Royal consort.”

Arthur shook his head as he began to pace again, his footsteps muffled on the thick carpet. “It doesn’t matter.”

“Arthur, to them it matters a great deal. Merlin is a foreigner and a man.”

“Avalon is not a.... foreign land. It is one of our colonies.” Avalon's laws were the same as Albion. Her people spoke the same language, there was no difference as far as Arthur was concerned.

“But it's not Albion. The counicl is old fashioned. Merlin doesn't have the right bloodlines. He was born illegitimate, his parents never married, and he cannot provide you with an heir.”

Arthur glanced at his father's portrait, remembering the man who had instilled in Arthur the importance of being an heir from a young age. Now that heir was having his throne removed from him by a man Uther had trusted. “There are other ways of... securing the... succession. If Morgana were to marry...”

“These are ifs,” Gaius said, gently interrupting. “The court only wishes to deal in proofs. At the moment they see Tristan as an alternative candidate.”

“He has... no right.”

“In law and by blood he does, Arthur,” Gaius said. “He claims royal blood. He's also got most of the council, the significant members of the government, to listen to him.”

Arthur went back over to the window and sat down on the window seat. “What am I going to do?”

Gaius sat down beside him. “He won't force an abdication just as war has started. What you have, Arthur, is a little time. I suggest you use it.”

“What would you do, Gaius?” Arthur asked, turning to the older man.

Gaius didn’t answer immediately but looked out of the window. “I would find a way to make the people listen,” he said, turning back. “If a king has the love of his people, as your father did,” he glanced up at the portrait of Uther, “no council, no government can force him to do anything.”

The doors at the far end of the room opened and the council came back in, their head still bowed. They headed into the chamber and Gaius got up to follow. “They'll give you the verdict now,” he said.

Arthur nodded and stood up. He waited to be called inside and contemplated Gaius's words. He had said he ruled for the people. Perhaps he was going to have to put that faith to the test.

“Sire, they are ready for you,” the announcer said.

Arthur nodded, took a deep breath and went back in to face the verdict.

As he stood in front of the council he realised none were elected. Here was not the voice of the people, but the voice of individuals who had found themselves the power and wealth to be there. Their opinion was not the opinion of the people, and their verdict was not the verdict of the nation Arthur served.

“King Arthur,” Geoffrey said. “It is the opinion of this court that you have two choices. You can either end your affair with Mr Emerson, or you can abdicate in favour of your uncle, Lord Tristan Du Bois.”

Tristan had the audacity to bow.

“You would have me abdicate now? When... we are at... war?” Arthur asked.

“No, but when the war is over we expect you to examine the issue carefully.”

“I will not give up Merlin Emerson,” Arthur said, not making a single mistake with his words.

“Then your only choice is abdication.”

“I find the choice,” Arthur paused, “was never mine.”

He left the council chambers and the council themselves speechless.

*****************************************************************************

The wait felt like forever to Merlin. He had seen a couple of patients that morning and work had allowed him to focus and not to risk turning on the wireless. The news he wanted to hear was not going to be on public channels, not yet anyway.

As soon as he could, Merlin escaped his rooms and headed for Arthur's flat. The staff knew him and were friendly. He was allowed inside and waited for Arthur in the sitting room. Moments ticked by slowly until the door creaked open. Merlin was on his feet in an instant.

“What did they say?”

Arthur’s expression was gloomy. “They want me to abdicate as soon as the war is over.”

Merlin's stomach felt as if it had sunk to his knees. “Oh.”

“Oh? That's it?” Arthur asked, sounding hurt.

“If they want you to abdicate then...”

Arthur interrupted. “Then what? I let my uncle steal the throne?”

“No, of course not,” Merlin said, shaking his head. “I understand. I'll step aside...”

Arthur stepped up to Merlin. “No, you won't.”

“Arthur? What's going on?” Merlin could see a gleam in the Prince's eyes.

Arthur smiled and went to stand by the window. “It's not up to the... court to decide, not up to the... government, it's up to the... people, the actual... people out there. Not the ones with titles or money... but the ones I'm here to serve.”

“You're going to ask the people what you should do?” Merlin asked.

“Yes,” Arthur said, turning to face him. “The government relies on their... goodwill, especially now. They've been telling the... media how much the spirit of the... people means. We'll find out.”

“How?”

“I'm going to... make a... speech” Arthur said. “When the... war is over I'll make a... speech and ask the people.”

Merlin came up to Arthur and hugged him tightly. “I knew you'd make a great king,” he said.

That night Merlin slept with Arthur in the Tintagel flat and didn't leave until long after breakfast.

*****************************************************************************

The war with Mercia lasted eight long months. Arthur made a speech every week, sometimes twice a week, to keep up morale and Merlin was with him for each one. Eventually the Albion navy won the battle at sea but then their ground forces faced a bloody battle themselves. There were heavy casualties on both sides but eventually Albion and her empire triumphed.

Now that his relationship with Merlin was 'public' knowledge, at least among the court and government, Arthur no longer hid it from the palace. Most evenings Merlin never made it home. He told Arthur that Gwaine and Lancelot had started to complain they never saw him. Arthur just laughed and held Merlin more tightly.

The war ended on the same day Arthur asked Merlin to marry him.

As soon as the news reached the palace preparations were made for Arthur to give his speech celebrating Albion's victory. As he had many times before, Arthur dressed in his uniform and walked through the palace to the room which had been adapted for all his speech broadcasts. The walk was familiar, comforting, and yet amongst the cheer of the war being at an end there was also a sense of sombre occasion from the palace officials.

“Good luck,” Morgana said, greeting them as they passed her. “To both of you.”

Arthur nodded and Merlin thanked her. It was good to have some support. Lord Tristan was there in the room with the rest of the court He would be listening, and waiting, to make his move once it was over and force the abdication.

Arthur was not going to give him the chance. Not whilst Merlin stood by his side.

It was Geoffrey who met them before they went in to broadcast the speech. He saw the official speech he himself had approved in Arthur's hand.

“This may be your last broadcast as king,” Geoffrey said. “I hope it will be as successful as your others.”

It was a half compliment and Arthur knew it. “Indeed,” he replied.

“We shall draw up documents for the abdication,” Geoffrey said. “Unless you changed your mind.”

Without turning away from Geoffrey Arthur reached down and clasped Merlin’s hand. “No, I haven't.”

Geoffrey coughed, trying to avert his gaze form this obvious public display of affection. “Very well,” he said. “Good luck.”

With Geoffrey bustling his way back to the room where the rest of the court were waiting, Arthur, still holding Merlin's hand, walked into the room that had become almost a second home. As soon as Merlin turned and closed the door Arthur put the official speech onto the floor and took out his own to place on the lectern. He and Merlin had spent many hours putting it together, keeping enough of the wording of the original, at least at the start, so no-one would suspect.

This would be his victory speech but it would also be his plea to the people. Arthur had only one opportunity to get it right. He and Merlin had practised the speech over and over but he couldn't help but be nervous. He just hoped the broadcast would not be cut off by over-zealous officials.

The red light began to blink. Arthur evened out his breathing and looked at Merlin. The red light was on and with Merlin giving him the thumbs up, Arthur began to speak.

“Citizens of Albion,” he began, “I speak to you today...as your king,” a brief pause,“but also as a man,” a natural pause and Arthur kept his eyes on Merlin. He knew the speech practically by heart. “A man who has,” pause, breathe, “in the past few months,” bounce onto the 's' sounds, “shared your sorrow in the conflict with Mercia,” pause for a breath, “and today I share my joy at our,” pause for emphasis, “victory. I thank each,” a breath, “and every one of you,”a brief pause, “for you all made this possible.

“However there is something important,” pause for emphasis, “you should know.”

Now Arthur began to diverge from the scripted speech. He almost wanted to watch the red light, make sure it stayed on, but Merlin covered it with his jacket and just nodded.

“The task of leading you during the difficult time,” pause for what he was about to say, “has been made easier by the help,” a quick pause, “and support,” a breath, “of the man I love.”

Without pausing too much Arthur went into the next section. “For I speak to you today...” a pause and a breath, “as a man in love.” End of a sentence and a natural pause. “A man whose choice of partner,” breath and pause, “has been deemed unsuitable,” pause for slight emphasis, “by my advisers,” a longer pause. Merlin was still indicating the light was on. “Yet I feel it is not their place,” a pause, “to tell me whom I should love,” Arthur breathed and carried on. “They would have me,” quick pause, “discharge my duties as monarch and leader,” a slightly longer pause, “to marry the person I love,” a breath and a pause, “more than anyone.”

Arthur met Merlin's eyes. Merlin was smiling.

“Yet my duty is,” slightly pause, “as it has always been,” another pause for emphasis, “to you,” quick breath, “the people.” Letting that sink in Arthur paused. “So I ask you, the citizens of Albion and our empire,” pause for effect, “to give me your judgement.” A natural pause. “If you wish it of me,” a pause as the next part was hard to say, emotionally rather than practically, “I will discharge my love for duty,” a beat, “though it would hurt.” Merlin had a look of pride on his face. Arthur nodded and continued. “If you w...wished it,” Arthur paused, trying not to let his mistake put him off, “I would discharge my duty for love.”

“I hope, beyond hope,” quick pause, “that you will allow me to carry out both.” Another natural pause. “To allow me to love,” pause for emphasis, “and do my duty to you.” A pause and a breath. “I trust in your judgement.” A pause for emphasis. “ I am but a man,” quick pause, “a man who has grown,” slight pause, “who has been able to carry out his duties,” another quick pause, “thanks to the love I have received.” Arthur paused. “That love has come from another man,” a breath and pause for emphasis. “A man from Avalon,” another pause. “That should not matter,” he took a breath, “I feel the results show the power,” quick pause, “and strength,” another quick pause, “that love has given me.”

Arthur took a moment to take another breath before moving toward the end of his speech.

“My future lies in your hands,” a pause for emphasis. “I thank you for listening,” a quick pause, “and I regret I must,” another quick pause, “reveal this burden in this hour of celebration,” quick pause, “yet I could not, in full conscience,” a pause and a breath, “allow this happy time to be marred by any,” quick breath, “scandal. By telling you now,” quick pause, “how I feel,” another quick pause, “I hope you understand my reasons.”

“I hope you will,” pause for emphasis, “forgive me and I hope,” a breath, “our futures,” quick pause, “remain,” final pause for emphasis, “bright.”

“Thank you for listening,” Arthur finished without pause or hesitation.

The light stayed on for a few moments but Merlin gave Arthur a hug regardless. He didn't speak and Arthur doubted the sound of two men embracing would be picked up even by the most sensitive microphone. He watched as the light blinked off and then allowed himself to let out a sigh.

“How was that?” he asked.

Merlin kissed him playfully. “Fine apart from the 'w' mistake.”

“I had to do that so they w...would know it w...was me,” Arthur said, smiling. He'd actually had to work to make the mistake, something he couldn't have dreamed of doing a year earlier.

“It's up to the people now, isn't it?” Merlin asked.

Arthur nodded. “Will you still love me if they don't want me as king?”

“Arthur, I'd love you if you were lower than a footman.”

At that moment nothing else mattered.

****************************************************************************

When they exited the room they found a crowd had gathered outside. Among them were court officials; including Geoffrey and Tristan. All seemed to have looks of horror upon their faces, mixed with disbelief at what their king had done. All except Gaius who was smiling. He stood behind the broadcast controller and clearly he had had some hand in making sure the broadcast continued.

“You said you believed in the... people, Geoffrey,” Arthur said. “Perhaps... we can wait for their judgement?”

Geoffrey was speechless, his mouth open in surprise but he nodded.

“Come on, Merlin,” Arthur said. Once again he took Merlin's hand and they both smiled triumphantly as they made their way through the court members.

At the door they passed Morgana, who was also smiling. “I think, Arthur, that was the best speech you have ever made,” she said.

Arthur looked at Merlin. “I hope so.”

They left the palace in uproar and retreated to the Tintagel flat. It had become a more personal space for the two of them, a place where Arthur wasn't the king, he could just be Arthur. Of course to Merlin he would always be just Arthur. Merlin told him so much as they lay in bed together.

“It'll be all right, Arthur,” Merlin said, as they held each other.

“I know,” Arthur replied, kissing Merlin. “It always is with you.”

*****************************************************************************

The next morning Merlin found himself waking up early. He jostled poor Arthur out of sleep at an ungodly hour but then neither of them had any desire to go back to sleep. In a few hours the morning newspapers would be out, and Merlin would know if Arthur's gamble, if their gamble, had paid off.

In a few hours they would know if the people still wanted Arthur as their king.

They washed, dressed and breakfasted, but Merlin didn't eat much. In the end he and Arthur both encouraged the other to eat what they could. It was a rather comical situation. Merlin had telephoned his friends to tell them to bring over the morning editions.

“The King of Albion can hardly be seen going out and buying newspapers,” Arthur had said.

By half past nine Merlin was starting to get worried and he tapped the arm of the settee on which he and Arthur were sat.

“You're making me nervous, Merlin,” Arthur joked, although he too looked worried, his mouth set tightly.

Happily, moments later Lancelot and Gwaine came in, their arms full of newspapers.

“What's the news?” Merlin asked, realising how silly that sounded.

Gwaine grunted and dumped the pile of papers on the coffee table in front of Merlin and Arthur. He stretched his back. “The news is we're going to have to start measuring you for your wedding dress,” Gwaine said.

Merlin pulled the top newspaper off the pile and read the headline: 'King's Victory of Love'. Merlin picked up another, 'The Love of A King and His People' it read. Each one was positive, not a single one was negative.

“You should see the people with the placards,” Lancelot said, unloading his pile next to the one Gwaine had dumped.

“Placards?” Merlin asked, trying to read some of the articles.

“Outside the palace,” Gwaine said, collapsing in a chair. “Hundreds of them. All supporting you and King Arthur.”

Merlin felt his jaw drop. “How is this possible?”

At his side Arthur was already picking up several other copies and glancing at the headlines. “I made a really good... speech” he said. “Obviously.”

“Oh, is that all?” Merlin grinned.

Dropping the paper he was holding Arthur leaned over and kissed him. “But I couldn't have done it without... you.”

“Do you think this is enough to stop them forcing you to abdicate?”

Gwaine snorted. “If this isn't enough you should fire the lot of them,” he said.

“I think that,” Arthur said, “is an excellent idea.”

*****************************************************************************

It was early afternoon when they headed back to the palace. Arthur knew they couldn't hide forever. By then the crowds had grown, blocking several of the roads and forcing Percival to take a long route around in order to avoid the car being mobbed. Even so Arthur had a good idea of the support he and Merlin had as he could make out several placards proclaiming 'Let the King Marry for Love' and similar sentiments.

When they reached the palace Arthur left Merlin in Morgana's care whilst he went to see the court. He knew they had convened an emergency meeting and he was anxious as to the outcome.

He reached the council chamber just as the council members were dispersing. Latching onto a friendly face Arthur went to see what news there was. “Gaius?”

Gaius smiled. “Good news,” he said. “The council has overturned their verdict. They see no reason why such a popular king should be forced to abdicate for an unpopular successor.”

“Tristan is unpopular?”

“Oh, he always has been,” Gaius said. “His support was based on fear, but the council fears the goodwill of the people more than they fear Tristan. To be honest, now they have an excuse to withdraw support they weren't keen on giving to begin with.”

“What will happen to him?”

“I think there's probably some diplomatic post we can find for him in a far flung area of the empire. We'll say it's prestigious of course,” Gaius said, winking.

“Thank you, Gaius.”

“Don't thank me,” he said. “Even Geoffrey stood up to him in the end.”

Arthur held out his hand. “I still want to thank you,” he said. “You gave your support before this.”

Taking Arthur's hand Gaius shook it. “Your father would be proud of you.”

Looking up at his father's portrait Arthur could almost picture a smile on the stern face of his predecessor. “Perhaps, Gaius, perhaps.”

When Arthur returned to the main palace Merlin was waiting. He was full of nervous energy as he walked around the room. “Have you heard the crowd outside?” he asked, indicating the noise coming through the open windows. “They've been calling for you for an hour.”

“For us,” Arthur amended. He came close and put an arm around Merlin.

“I love you,” Merlin said, giving Arthur a kiss.

Arthur smiled. He would never tire of the feelings Merlin gave him. It was as if he had taken all of Arthur's fear of speaking and inverted it.

A couple of aides discreetly opened the doors that led onto the balcony. It had been decorated for the occasion, the red banner with the golden Pendragon crest hanging down from it proudly. The cheers of the crowd grew even louder.

“Come on, Merlin,” Arthur said, taking his hand. “Time for your first balcony appearance.”

Merlin smiled through his nerves. “I'm ready,” he said.

Smiling less out of fear and more out of pride, Arthur nodded and led Merlin out onto the balcony to wave at the cheering crowds below.

Epilogue

Two weeks after his speech King Arthur Pendragon married Merlin Emerson in a public ceremony broadcast across Albion's Empire. It was the first Royal wedding to be broadcast in this fashion.

King Arthur reigned successfully for decades afterwards. He oversaw a time of great peace and prosperity during which Albion extended her influence and brought hope and change to those that needed it.

Merlin was always by his side. He founded Albion's first Royal Society of Speech Therapists and was later made a member of the Order of the Dragon for his services to health and well being.

King Arthur became the main patron of the Royal Society of Speech Therapists and kept that position for the rest of his reign.

He and Merlin remained happily married for the rest of their lives.