Becoming Magic

Rested

The weeks following the event that was meant to be a celebration for Merlin, were filled with patrols and many arrests of slavers and thieves. Though not those that had captured the group. They had managed to evade all patrols. Arthur had a knighting ceremony at least weekly, and he was having to make due, through all of it, without Merlin. He often found his thoughts turned to Merlin during his council meetings. He'd look over his shoulder for a smile of encouragement or word of advice, to find the space empty. He knew it was for the best. Gaius had said that some time off at home should help Merlin to heal completely. Percival and Lancelot had rode out to Ealdor with him to ensure his safe arrival. After a few days, they had returned, but without Merlin. Lancelot had told him that he wasn't ready to come back just yet. But that he did plan to. Merlin had given a letter to Lancelot to give to Arthur. It didn't say much, just that he promised to come back soon so the prat shouldn't worry. And that he'd send word ahead when he was ready to come back. The Knights were all subdued as well. Arthur hadn't realized how much they all relied on his smile, his snarky comebacks, or his ability to just talk to everyone as equals. He knew that Lancelot and Percival were hiding something, but he hadn't had time to work out what it was. His Uncle Aggravaine gave sound advice, but it wasn't the same.

"Arthur?" Aggravaine asked.

He hadn't realized his uncle was speaking until then. "Sorry, Uncle, what can I do for you?"

"Are you well, Sire?" he questioned back.

"Fine. Just thinking. Is there something you needed?"

"I just wanted to check about preparations for the Samhain Feast. It is fast approaching, and I wondered if you intended to continue the tradition? Since you are breaking many traditions such as the addition of commoners to the knights."

Arthur could tell his uncle was still bitter about this, but he refused to acknowledge the statement. "We will hold a feast and uphold the tradition. But, it is, as you said, still a ways off. Is that all?"

"I should think so. The patrols have cleared the woods and it appears as if you either arrested or scared off all the bandits that were responsible for your capture. They are nowhere to be found."

"That's great news. Keep up the patrols for a few more weeks. We need to ensure our people know that their safety and well-being are my priority."

"Of course, Sire." He bows slightly and leaves Arthur alone with his thoughts. Maybe heading to the training grounds will help him focus. At the least he knows it will help relieve some stress. George helps him in to his armor and he heads out to meet the knights already sparring.

"Nice of you to join us for a change, Princess! We were beginning to think you forgot about us," Gwaine yelled across the field. Arthur couldn't help but smirk.

"What have I said about calling me that, Gwaine?"

"Hmm, I forget." He says with a broad smile.

"Alright then, I'll help it sink in a bit more." They sparred and Arthur started to feel better getting back in to the rhythm of an everyday task that he always enjoyed. After Gwaine and him fought, Lancelot and Leon fought, followed by Elyan and Percival. More had paired up after, including the new additions of Sir Corbett and Sir Eoin, and kept the energy going.

"I think this successful training session requires a celebration!" Gwaine stated.

Arthur readied himself to argue and quickly changed my mind. "You know what, you are absolutely right. Let's all get a drink tonight."

"Very well. Drinks tonight it is." Leon says smiling.

The men part ways to head to their rooms to change and have dinner before heading out. They all head down to the tavern together making light hearted conversation. When they get to a table Gwaine was already bringing drinks over and passing them out. It was nice getting out and being around the knights again. They helped fill the void that had been left by Merlin. Naturally as soon as Arthur thought this, he felt his smile falter and looked down to the table hoping no one noticed.