Merlin: the secret prince

Merlins coronation

Merlin stood alone in his chamber, the heavy silence pressing upon him like a tangible weight. Tomorrow, he would be crowned King of Deria—a destiny he neither sought nor welcomed. To him, the crown felt like an ill-fitting shroud. Though the voices of his family, friends, and people swelled in encouragement, Merlin could not shake the feeling that he was unworthy. That he was not the man this kingdom needed.

Word spread swiftly. Concerned, Arthur—King of Camelot and Merlin's oldest and closest friend—requested Hunith to convene a meeting of Deria's people. The purpose was clear: to unite their voices and demonstrate beyond doubt that Merlin was the rightful, capable king.

The great hall brimmed with expectant faces—knights, nobles, commoners, and friends. Arthur stepped forward, his voice echoing through the chamber with the authority of a seasoned king.

"Good people of Deria," he began, "I am Arthur, King of Camelot. I stand here not as a distant monarch, but as a friend, who has known Merlin for many years. I come at the request of your knights and princes, to speak on behalf of one who doubts his own worthiness to rule. Merlin believes himself unfit to wear this crown because of years spent away from these lands. Yet, I ask you—what makes a king? Is it simply bloodline? Or is it the courage to serve, the heart to protect, and the wisdom to lead?"

A hush fell. Arthur's eyes scanned the crowd. "I have witnessed Merlin treat every man, woman, and child as his equal—an uncommon trait even in Camelot. I have seen his deeds, his sacrifice, and his unwavering loyalty. But do not take only my word. Tell me—why do you believe Merlin is worthy of this crown?"

Noah, Merlin's elder brother, stepped forward first, his voice ringing with conviction. "He is compassionate beyond measure. He is not just a brother to us, but a protector who would give everything for his family and kingdom."

Amelia, his younger sister, followed, eyes bright with pride. "He remembers everyone's name, their stories, their struggles. His kindness reaches even the forgotten."

Liliana, Merlin's fiancée, stood beside him, her hand resting gently on his arm. Her voice was steady and unwavering. "He is not only wise but steadfast. His heart beats not for power but for the good of all."

Voices rose from the crowd:
"He became the wielder of Excalibur at just fourteen!"
"He treats all as equals, noble or common."
"He is a fearless warrior!"
"He is a loyal and true friend."
"He is the finest son any family could ask for," Hunith added softly.

Arthur smiled warmly. "These are the truths you hold of Merlin as a prince. But I first knew him as a servant. When I was young, I believed servants were lesser beings—shadows beneath us. Merlin changed that belief. From the moment we met, he treated me as an equal, never demanding respect but commanding it through honor."

Arthur's tone deepened. "At first, I resented having Merlin as my servant. I wanted someone who would obey without question. Yet, in time, our relationship transformed into a profound friendship. Merlin never once disappointed me. He stood by my side through every battle, without armor or weapon, relying on courage and wit alone. Sir Leon, who has witnessed it all, can attest to their countless battles together."

Arthur took a breath, then continued with fierce pride. "Because of Merlin, Camelot's rules changed. Where once only nobles could be knights, now commoners—those of true merit—stand proudly in the Round Table. His vision reshaped our kingdom."

A murmur rose in the hall.

"There was a day," Arthur said quietly, "when I discovered Merlin was not only a servant or prince but Emrys—a warlock, said to be immortal. Only two things can end his life: Excalibur, the sword he wields, and a second blade forged in dragon's breath, which I bear. When I asked why he trusted me with such knowledge, he said: 'If I am to die, there is no one else I would trust to do the deed.' Such trust is rare beyond measure."