Work Text:
“Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him lord of all.”
Cloth rustled, murmurs filled the room. Merlin stepped forward, kneeling to his king. Arthur beamed as he placed the elegant circlet atop loose dark curls. He extended his hand, helping Merlin stand.
They faced the Court, faces looking back with regard, admiration, surprise, and even fear, as Merlin was acknowledged Court Sorcerer.
“Hip hip, hurrah! Hip hip, hurrah!” A loud cheer arose from the crowd, begun by Gwaine and Gaius.
Merlin’s eyes brimmed with tears which spilled over as his heart swelled from the recognition he was finally receiving.