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Merlin didn’t know how he was going to explain how he was able to get a hold of a few extra yards of fabric and take them back to his chambers. Perhaps he would mention that Arthur was making sure he was able to mend longer pieces of clothing for when he finally decided on someone to marry. He was sure that after he found a wife, Arthur would ensure his workload doubled. In truth, it was easier to lie to the guards than to Gaius, he knew him far more than anyone in the castle. Rushing down the hall to his chambers he was hoping that no one was in to see Gaius for any questions or medicine. Thankfully it appears Gaius was out for the afternoon, probably doing his rounds to the lower city. He quickly took the fabric and hid it in his small cupboard in his room. He was going to make sure that he would get the spell just right this time. He did not have much fabric to spare if he messed up again. Spreading the red and black material out on his tiny bed he focused and carefully spoke an enchantment towards its direction. Suddenly the square shapes of fabric shifted into a dress that would make even Morgana green with envy. “Yes!” Merlin exclaimed. All he needed to do now was wait until nightfall and prepare for the start of something he has always wished to do.

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“Merlin!’ Arthur yelled. “It is far too early to be helping me into bed”. “I’m sorry sire, I only suggested you retire early because you mentioned you were not feeling great after the feast”. “It had nothing to do with what I had to eat” Arthur uttered “I just don’t have a good feeling about the council meeting tomorrow” Arthur slowly walked over to his bed and flopped down. Merlin could see Arthur’s eyebrows furrowing, which surely meant that this topic of conversation was bothering him more than normal.

Merlin wanted to push further and question Arthur about exactly what was bothering him, but he was afraid that it would put him too far behind schedule. He should be making his way to the tavern by now. Merlin glanced toward Arthur, wishing that he could be of more comfort to him, but decided that it was not the right time. “I’m sure after a good night’s rest, you will be prepared to face anything in the morning” Merlin said calmly to Arthur, trying to reassure him that everything would be alright.

Arthur glanced over at Merlin, who was starting to walk toward the servants' hall. “You are truly a good servant, Merlin. I don’t know where I would be without you”. Merlin blushed and slowly turned back toward Arthur, “I don’t think I am that good, surely you had a better manservant before I moved here”. “No,” Arthur stated, “because he was not a friend like you have been to me”.

Merlin could not believe the words that were coming out of Arthur's mouth. Did he truly believe that the two of them could be friends? No, he would not put those thoughts into his head. It was bad enough that he had to hide the very essence of himself. Magic. He had magic, and he could not afford to risk anyone like Arthur getting close to him and discovering his secret. Sure, Lancelot knew of his magic, but Lancelot was open-minded and not raised by a man who only thought of Magic as a crime against Camelot. Even though Uther has been dead for the last year, there was no way that his beliefs and fear of magic disappeared overnight. Keeping this from Arthur was the only decision he could make for now. Perhaps, one day, he would be able to share more of himself, but until then, I would protect him from a distance.

“What’s your plan for tonight, Merlin?” Arthur questioned him with a genuine look on his face. “I’m off to help Gaius by collecting some herbs for various medicines’. A lie, he told another lie which has become easier and easier each year since coming to Camelot.

“Isn’t it a bit late to be searching for herbs?” Arthur enquired. “Only these herbs can be found at night, and in a certain part of the forest”. He knew Arthur did not fully believe him, but he did not know much about medicinal practices to fully dismiss it as hogwash. “Good luck, Merlin” Arthur said as I was starting toward the hallway again. I just pray that he was distracted enough by the thoughts of the council meeting tomorrow that he does not try to beckon me tonight. I was certainly late now, I would have to find an alternative route to the tavern since the guards will be changing stations shortly. Running out of Arthur's chambers, I hoped that I had enough time to arrange my transformation fully.

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Arthur did not know when he started feeling this way. Was it before or after the death of his father? During his childhood, he knew that he was different from the other boys his age. The way he felt around them was not normal. There was no doubt that his father would disapprove if he ever found out, so he pushed those thoughts down to where they would not be easily felt. He thought that he had those feelings in control, but that was until a slim young man from Ealdor showed up in Camelot all those years ago.

Not only did he feel a connection to him, but it felt like he had met him before. When asked, Merlin simply stated that he had never traveled outside of his small village until he moved to Camelot on that fateful day. Hoping to spend more time with him was something he wanted from their first interaction, but he never imagined that his father would make him his manservant after saving his life. As he watched Merlin leave his chambers tonight, he dreamed of what a life with him would entail.

I had once mentioned wanting to run away to a foreign land and living on a farm. Having that animosity and freedom to spend it with the man he loved was something that could only be dreamed of. Being the King of Camelot did not allow him those luxuries, such as being able to leave everything behind. He wished that he could be as courageous as Merlin. Even Merlin knew exactly who he was. I am just a figurehead who sits on a throne, serving as the face of an entire kingdom. To Camelot, I look like I have everything that I could ever want. But deep down, the only thing I would ever need was forced to stay 10 paces behind me.

The only thing that keeps me going each day is knowing that he will always be there to wake me up in the morning, and help me to bed at night. Sometimes it was just so tiring trying to keep up the facade. That’s when I have to remember that I am luckier than most. I was lucky to have been born into all of this luxury, even though I want to throw it away some days. I could still do something with the responsibility that has been thrust upon me. I could make a difference, I know it. And that is what I was going to do, I could instill changes to Camelot and throughout my kingdom to ensure that people like me may be able to one day live and love whoever they want freely. But Merlin was right, I should get a good night’s rest, and the answers would come to me tomorrow. And how could they not? I would wake up to the sound of Merlin preparing everything for my day. So, I got under the covers on my bed and dreamt of a better world.

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The gravel was getting everywhere in my shoes. I do not understand how women can wear these. I had snatched a pair of these from Gwen so that I could not be questioned for stealing anything from the royal household. Before I left the castle grounds to travel to the Tavern, I was able to make and use the potion, which allowed me to transform myself into a more feminine version of myself.

My jaw became more rounded, and other parts became… fuller. I was able to glance at my reflection in the well and did not hate the way I appeared. This could work; I might be able to pull this off. I made my way down to the stables and grabbed my bag, which included that stunning gown.

I quickly changed and made sure that I stashed my personal belongings under some hay in the corner of the room. I was not exactly sure how long this potion would last, but I was hoping that I could make it through the evening. I should have done a test run, but then I would be unable to make the monthly tavern celebration. Hopefully, they would allow someone to perform even if it was their first time there. If I ran there now, I would be there in enough time to get a drink in me before the spectacle starts. Hopefully, these shoes won’t badly damage my feet.

Running as fast as I could, I quickly made it outside of the Crown and Dagger. Someone was leaving as I approached the door, loud music was already playing inside, and I was wondering if I had missed the action yet. As I was about to open up the door, that’s when I heard their voices. Two Knights of Camelot were walking this way. Oh my God, they were walking towards me. “Shit!” I exclaimed.

“Well, hello there,” Gwaine subtly said as I held the door open. “Were you on your way in as well?” I was at a loss for words, I had no idea that they would come all the way down to the lower city to the Crown and Dagger, and on the night of the celebration. “No!” I shouted, “I mean, yes…Yes, I am going here tonight. How about you, are you coming in?” I stuttered. How embarrassing, this could not have started off worse.

“Yes, my friends and I love to come here after a long day. We’ve never seen you before though. I think I would have recognized such an exquisite young lady like yourself”. “Now now, Gwaine” Elyan said, “Don’t tease the poor girl”. Gwaine laughed heartily. “I wasn’t, I just wanted to see if she would like to accompany us to our usual table”. Oh God, no, this can’t be happening. Someone will surely recognize me. Not to mention, I don’t know how much longer I have in this form. Just one night, I wanted to experience what it would be like to dress up like the other ladies in town and perform at the tavern, and now I am stuck with my friends pretending to be someone I’m not.

“Usual table?” I questioned subtly. “Yes, we come every month for the show. It’s one of our favorite pastimes,” Answered Elyan. “We would be glad to have you join us tonight,” he continued. “We are just waiting for the rest of us, but Gwaine can show you to your seat”. “Thanks,” I said through my teeth, trying not to sound ungrateful. “Right this way, my Lady” Gwaine said as he motioned with his hand offering to direct me to their table. God, he was such a shameless flirt. I now understand how he had the women eating out of the palm of his hand.

Once we reached the empty table, I could tell that they were telling the truth about coming here every month. The Tavern was packed; every table filled with guests squeezed together. But one table was left alone right in the front of the stage. They must come often enough that every patron knows that their table is off limits.

I finally mustered up the courage to ask, “So, how many fellow knights are we expecting to join us tonight?”. Gwaine paused to think, only to recite their names “Well there is Elyan whom you’ve met, and then there’s Percival and Leon. And with any luck, Lancelot may grace our presence tonight”. “Lancelot?” I accidentally spoke aloud. “Do you know Lancelot?” Gwaine inquired with a grin on his face. “No, how could I, I am not from around here.” Hopefully, my interruption came off like an innocent stranger passing through Camelot.

This was not good. Lancelot is the only one who knows about my magic. He was going to put two and two together. I may be in disguise, but I look like what I imagined my sister would look like if I had one. “Well, I am sure that you’ll love Lancelot. He is one of the most loyal people you will ever meet. He was on sentry duty this evening, but he is set to be relieved shortly.” Gwaine tried to assure me that he was no one to be feared. Little did he know that I was fearful of Lancelot, I feared that he would recognize me and unintentionally out me to the whole tavern. I was no fool; I know how fast word travels. First, the tavern would know, and then all of Camelot by morning. I would be sentenced to be burned at the stake by the time Arthur had a chance to eat his breakfast.

“Hopefully, I will get to meet him. He sounds like a great person,” I smiled, trying to hide any disappointment in my eyes. “Ah, here they come now,” Gwaine gestured towards the men making their way through the crowd. “Well now, you know Elyan,” Gwaine gestured toward the young knight. “And this is Percival and Leon,” Gwaine said as I glanced up at my friends, who also have no idea that it is me in disguise. “And this is… this is… well, I’m so sorry we were too focused on ourselves that we forgot to ask for your name,” Gwain said embarrassingly.

Oh god, I had not thought of a name. I really had planned out almost everything but a name. I glance around, trying to find something in the tavern that might inspire a name. I looked at the table on the other side of the room where a single Lily is sitting in a glass half-filled with water. “Lily, my name is Lily…. Well, it’s short for Lillian, but I go by Lily,” I explained. Hopefully, that did not come off as awkward as it seemed in my head.

“Well, Lily, I just wanted to say that you may be named after a common flower, but there is nothing common about you,” Gwaine said as he picked up my hand to place a kiss upon it. “Dear Lord” Percival muttered and rolled his eyes as he watched Gwaine pull out my chair and insist that I take a seat”. I could not help but feel butterflies in my stomach. I think that I could get used to this, being doted on.

“Alright, everyone, who wants a pint of ale” shouted Leon from the far side of the table. Everyone put up their hands in agreement. Leon strolled over to the Barmaid to put in our order. I could surely do this; I could get up there and perform. With my friends at my side, even if they do not know that it is me. I have everything that I need. Well, mostly everything.

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The Barmaid returned to the table with enough pints for us, and then some. “Thanks, Millie,” Gwaine said as he cheekily winked at her. This must be a recurring event based on the smirk that crossed her face and the shake of her head.

“So,” Gwaine started talking, looking intently towards me, “What brings you to Camelot, Lillian?” Great, yet another question I was not prepared for. “Just looking for a change of scenery”, I said before pausing, “Plus, I hear of all the opportunities afforded to the citizens here”.

“Hmmm”, Gwaine grunted before continuing, “It would not have anything to do with the well-known tales of the handsome Knights of the Round Table?”. I laughed a little too much for someone who supposedly met these men a few minutes ago.

“I wouldn’t say that you are particularly well known,” I jousted. “And what was your name again? Geoff?” I glanced over the rest of the table, and Leon was choking on his pint of ale. Percival was fighting off his laugh as he was patting Leon’s back, trying to bring him some comfort. Meanwhile, Elyan could not contain his own laughter.

“It has been some time since a woman has spoken to Gwaine like that. I am glad that you joined us this evening. It certainly was getting a little monotonous”. Gwaine was still staring at me with his jaw dropped, studying me still like he was trying to figure me out.

“Well then,” said Elyan, “Why the Crown and Dagger? And why tonight?”. I hesitated to answer, fearful that I would give too much away.

“I came here to perform”. I said straightforward and to the point, not giving them anymore time to speculate about my reason for being there. I certainly gained the attention of all the Knights now, even Leon, who was still recovering from his coughing fit.

“Performing?” Percival enquired. “Yes, it has been a dream of mine to perform ever since I was little”.

“What kind of performances?” Leon asked with an eagerness to know. “I guess you will all have to wait and see when the time comes. “Wow,” Elyan muttered. “Two performances in one night. The fall of Gwaine and the Rise of Lily”. Leon and Percival chuckled along with Elyan to the blatant disapproval of Gwaine.

“I think I can say for my fellow men that we are very much looking forward to seeing you perform,” Leon said while the remaining Knights nodded in agreement. “I just hope that you do not get your hopes up; this will be my first time,” I said, almost shying away.

“Well, if it's anything like how you talk to Gwaine, we are in for quite a treat”.

“I’ll toast to that!” I said as my pint came in contact with everyone’s minus Gwaine’s. My eyes moved toward his direction as he lifted his glass and pretended to toast in my direction and then winked. He’s such a Cad, I thought to myself.

Not long after that, a man loudly silenced the tavern and explained that the performances were set to begin. He also gestured to a sheet of parchment on the bar, which was filled out with names of the acts who would be showcased. “If anyone else would like a shot at performing this evening,” He paused for dramatic effect.” By all means, sign up, for the winner will go home with 300 coins.”

Three, Three Hundred coins? Surely, he cannot be serious. That’s as much as Arthur pays me for two months of service, and I could make that all in one night.

Shakily, I hopped down off my wooden stool and made my way over to the parchment. I was in luck because there was only one spot remaining for the first-time performers. I quickly took the quill and ink and signed my name. I stopped myself and pondered if I needed a surname. I decided against it because the only information they needed to know was Lily. Forcing confidence, I strutted back to the table.

Hopefully, by watching my competition, I could strategize what exactly I needed to do to secure those coins. Just as the chattering died down, the owner appeared again at the front of the stage to let us know that the show was ready to begin.

Two and a half hours later, and we were paraded with acts of fire breathing, juggling, and of course, the occasional singer. I was glad that I had ale in me because there were a few who could not find the note even if it was right in front of them. The libations seemed to help with my impending doom as I awaited my name to be called. I took one last sip from my mug and decided that I should stop before I made a complete fool of myself.

During the intermission, I started getting my thoughts together, trying to hype myself up in the process. At least if I screwed this all up, I wouldn’t have to be Lily ever again. I’m sure it would just fade away like a long-lost memory.

And then it happened. Everyone at our table snapped their necks in the same direction. The relatively tall man was making his way to the front of the room, towards our table.

“Lancelot” shouted Elyan and Gwaine simultaneously. Immediately, I felt my face start to flush and my eyes were going to bulge out of my head. Suddenly, the effects of three pints of ale were hitting me all at once. I now know what it feels like to be the prey who has just been spotted by the hunter. Lancelot was here! I knew that there was a slight chance he would show up, but it was shocking all the same. Lancelot knows me more than anyone here, especially the parts of myself that I haven’t even spoken aloud.

“Thank the Gods I was able to make it. Sir Gavin came down with some sort of illness, so I had to wait until Sir Bryan showed up”. “Well, we are glad that you could spare us some time,” Percival said as he patted Lancelot's shoulder. Lancelot’s eyes peeled towards me with a quizzical brow. He wanted to ask questions, but must have thought them untoward”.

“You arrived just in time, Lancelot” Gwaine boasted. “Our new friend Lily is going to enchant us with a performance tonight”. “Is that so?” Lancelot stared at me as if seeing directly into my soul. “We’ve never had any friends talented enough to partake”. “Hey,” Growled Gwaine. “I sang an original three months ago”. “Well, I’m not sure if we could call that singing,” Elyan said as he choked out laughter.

Lancelot narrowed his eyes again, but was distracted when the owner returned to the stage. “It is that time of the evening, unfortunately. We only have two acts remaining”. Once more, I tried to boost my confidence. This was going to be my moment, MY MOMENT! If I could not get the recognition I deserved as Merlin, then I was going to showcase my talents as Lily.

“Please welcome to the Crown and Dagger for the first time, Lily”.

I could do this; it did not matter who was in the audience. Slowly sinking out of my chair, I walked onto the stage, making sure not to trip up the steps. Once I reached the center, I inhaled deeply, trying to even out my breaths. Now in the spotlight, I prepared myself for the start of my life, the one of MY choosing.

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“Good evening,” I addressed the crowd, “Tonight, I have for you a different sort of performance”. I winked toward the audience, feeling my confidence grow. “If I could have a volunteer join me on stage, anyone will do”.

Surprisingly, a young man toward the back of the tavern raised his hand. “Come on up,” I gestured to the stage, and the eyes followed him as he made his way forward. “And what is your name, good sir?” I asked. “Stephen,” he replied, slightly hesitant. “Well, Stephen, I need you to stand to my right and place your hand over your heart”.

Stephen followed my instructions exactly. “Very good, can you please acknowledge that we have never met before?”. “I think I would know if I was graced with such a beauty,” he retorted. What a cheeky bastard. “You are too kind,” giving him a half smile, “Now, I’m going to determine everything I need to know about you without asking a single question.

“What?”, “How?”, “Can she do that?” and other outbursts came from the crowd.

“Stephen, Stephen, Stephen,” I said then clicking my tongue, “Is it hard work, ploughing fields all day?”. “What?” he said, standing with his mouth agape. “Tell me, what were you farming today? Tomatoes? Or no, I have it, Grain. “Well, that’s just a good guess,” Stephen chuckled, trying to laugh it off. “Very well, fair enough, let's dig a little deeper. You are the eldest son of a Blacksmith, but he never trained you since you are always out gambling and finding yourself down at the… Tavern,”. I left him speechless, and the room went quiet as well. Even though I did not know of Stephen as Merlin, apparently, he must be a frequent visitor to the Crown and Dagger.

“I am sorry if I have offended you, sir, you have been so gracious this evening, but I cannot let you go without a token,”. I leaned forward, appearing to have pulled something from behind his ear. Opening my palm, I revealed a butterfly, the most magnificent shade of blue. The creature flew away and into the crowd, eyes from all over watching its escape. “Oh no! I am so sorry, I must have left it over here,” I said as I moved toward Stephen's other ear, and pulled out a single coin,” I believe this is for you”. The crowd erupted into commotion and cheers. Although many jesters have visited Camelot, not many have been fortunate enough to attend those feasts. Using that to my advantage to truly show them something they have never seen before.

“Well, well, well,” The owner approached the stage,” Please give it up for Lily, we’ve never seen an act quite like it”. I patted Stephen’s back and quickly left the stage, returning to our table.

“Well done,” Leon said as he was still clapping, and I once again took my seat. “I think this deserves another round of Ale for us all,” Gwaine shouted. I was floored at how they all reacted.

“So, how did you know?” Elyan asked, trying to understand the deduction of the act. “How did you know everything about Stephen? He’s a local and tends to keep to himself. Not many people are aware of his family’s dynamics”. “Do you really want to know?” I asked, raising one eyebrow, “If I told you, I would have to…” I gestured my hand up to my throat in a slicing motion. Elyan chuckled, “You are a riot, you know that”. “I try”.

“Well, if you can’t tell us about how you know everything about Stephen, perhaps you can show us the butterfly and coin trick,” Gwaine insisted. “Fine,” I quickly enchanted my pockets to show a cocoon and a few additional coins. I reached down under the table to show my contents with a smirk on my face.

“You have got to be kidding me,” Said Percival, “You are incredibly smart”. “I prefer quick-witted, but that works too. Also, distracting the crowd with the butterfly allows you to collect the coin from your pocket”. They were gobsmacked. Like they have never seen a quick hand trick before. Well, I was not entirely truthful; I was using my magic, but if I were a Jester, that is how I suppose the trick would be performed.

We sat through the final performance of the evening, which was quite entertaining. How someone ever discovered that they could play the lute with one arm between their legs beats me. When my heart was finally recovering from my performance, the owner made his way to the stage again. “Alright, everyone, that is all for this evening. It is time to announce the winner of this month’s spectacular.

The room got so quiet, I swore they could hear my heart beating. “For the first time, the winner is Lily!” ‘Oh my God! I did it. “Come join me on stage, young lady,” he said to me. Percival almost picked me up where I sat and placed me on the stage. “I got it,” I said, smiling in his direction.

Glancing out into the crowd, I was starting to feel pride sweep across my face; I cracked a smile. “Congrats, Lily,” he said, “Can we know a little bit about you? I think we are all interested. “Well, there is not much about me that is interesting. I am from a small village near the white mountains and have journeyed here to explore what Camelot has to offer". “Well, that is intriguing,” He said as he passed me the coin purse. “As promised, your winning share. We hope to have you again soon". “Thank you for your generosity,” I told him while panning to the crowd.

As the applause calmed down, I returned to the table, and all eyes were now on me. “Since you are not from around here, would you mind if we escort you to an inn for the evening?” Leon asked. ‘How considerate,’ I thought, half tempted to take him up on his offer. I almost forgot that my belongings are currently under a bale of hay in the stables. And then suddenly, I was struck with a sharp pain and became almost sick to my stomach. The enchantment was starting to wear off. I needed to leave now! “That is quite the offer, but I must decline.” my words came out harsher than I intended. “It’s not a bother to us,” Elyan said, “We can get you set up for the night,”. “I am very grateful for everything, truly, but I must be going,” I said, getting up from the stool.

Turning to the direction of the door, I realized that someone had grasped my arm. As if I knew who it was, I turned slowly to meet their gaze. Lancelot stood there with a determined look on his face, wanting to escort me. I shook my head and removed my arm from his. Pushing through the crowd, I almost thought I heard him say, “Be safe, Lily”.

Rushing out of the tavern, I picked up my pace and started to run toward the Castle wall, nearing the stables. Careful to avoid any guards, I was able to sneak into the back door. Digging through the hay, I came across my bag and hurried to change out of my gown. Putting on my trousers, I realized that I still had the hips of a woman.

Squeezing as hard as I could, I was finally able to pull them up. As I stretched the tunic over my head, I realized that I must have finally returned to myself completely. Testing this, I cupped my chest; Thankful that it was now flat. I changed out of my shoes and into my boots, careful to place “Lily’s” belongings in an enchanted cupboard. Only I could open and remove its contents. I closed the cupboard and shoved my winnings into my pockets. ‘Great, now I just needed to sneak back to my chambers.’

Leaving the stables, I walked toward the servants' entrance when I heard the male voices come from behind me. “Well, that certainly was an interesting evening,” Elyan said as they were stumbling back to their quarters. “She was quite the woman,” Gwaine retorted, “I just wonder where she ran off to?” “Yes, she was rather mysterious,” Lancelot said, and Leon nodded in agreement.

I knew I needed to hide, but the only thing nearby was a wheelbarrow, and that certainly was not going to do. I needed to create a distraction in order for them to stop making their way over here. “Has anyone ever noticed how creepy the castle grounds are at night?” Gwaine said, looking around as if he could feel my presence. “Come on, Gwaine. Aren’t you supposed to be courageous, or was that all talk?” Elyan replied, “Besides, it is probably just the fog”.

As they were nearing the outer edge of the castle, I noted two barrels that hopefully were empty. Suddenly, I had an idea. Focusing my powers on them, I enchanted them to roll right into the Knights. The first barrel hit Leon in the side, knocking him down, while Percival barely avoided the second. “Who goes there?” shouted Leon, still splayed out on the ground. I took this opportunity to dash to the servants' entrance, praying that they were still preoccupied.

I must have made record time returning to my chambers. Opening the door, I was relieved to see that Gaius was fast asleep. Once I made it to my room, I was finally able to take in a deep breath. Putting my winnings into the cupboard, I changed into my nightshirt and readied myself for bed. Staring at the ceiling, not truly convinced that everything that happened tonight was real. I had shown my powers and was not strung up for it. Well aware that I still kept the magic to myself, and only shared half-truths. I allowed the thoughts of the tavern to carry me to sleep. The dreams that I once had were now a reality.

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“Merlin!” Gaius shouted, “Come get your breakfast now, or you will be late”. My head was pounding, I really needed to start learning my limit when it came to mead. Stumbling out of my room,I shuffled over to the table. “Too loud” I said to Gaius who raised an eyebrow in question, “You’re in a wonderful mood this morning”, Gaius spoke in a tone far louder than I hoped. “It will feel better after I eat” I blurted out too fast that I felt bad about the harshness of my voice. Hopefully some herbal tea and bread will help me put my head back on my shoulders.

“Well, hurry,” Gaius shooed toward me, “Arthur will want you on time for the council meeting, and he has yet to have his breakfast as well”. “Absolutely, Gaius. How could I forget?”, I said as I turned to him with a half smile.

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Making my way up to Arthur’s chambers I finally started feeling better. Just thinking of last evening made me want to burst with joy. I entered the chambers from the servants hallway and placed Arthur's breakfast on the dining table.

Arthur must have had a restless sleep because when I approached the bed, he was lying on his stomach sheets tossed over both sides. My eyes focused on his slow breaths, taking notice of every inhale and exhale. He was nice like this, no pressure weighing him down. He laid there as if he was not the most powerful man in all of Camelot.

“Up and at ‘em” I exclaimed while undoing the curtains to let the morning light in. The rays kissed his body, warming everything around him as if he was the sun itself. “One more hour” he demanded. “Oh, I’m afraid we cannot do that today sire, you would not want to miss the council,” I said tilting my head to the side, grateful that Arthur’s head was still encapsulated under his pillow.

“If I must," Arthur said slowly, picking his body up from the mattress. “ I have prepared a special breakfast for you today, Sire, I hope that you enjoy it”. I removed the cloche from the tray to show the sausage, eggs and fruit upon it. “That will do nicely, Merlin”, he said strolling over to the table. “Not a problem, sire” I said, bowing in his direction.

“You are certainly in a good mood this morning, Merlin” Arthur beamed, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”. “Nothing out of the ordinary”, I said, “It’s a wonderful day outside”,Unable to hide my emotions. “Do you mind if I prepare your outfit while you eat, so that I not bother you?” I asked. “You may”, Arthur said with a hint of curiosity in his tone. “Thank you, Sire”, I retorted and got to work.

“Oh, and Merlin”, Stopping me half way to the cupboard, “Can you push up the council meeting and extend training hours with the knights?” “Absolutely”, I replied while winking towards Arthur.

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I awoke this morning like I do everyday. With Merlin at my side, just how I like it. But today seemed different. Merlin was radiating energy from deep within his soul, as if he was consumed by everything good that makes up this world. He truly was a better man than I could ever be.

He was right about last evening, a good night's sleep would show me the path in which I needed to take. It is amazing that it took me so long to realize that being King allows me to mould Camelot into the Kingdom of my choosing. I have the ability to leave it in better hands than how I’ve inherited it. Scarfing down my breakfast, I was preparing myself for a confrontation and questions about my decision. Little did they know that my beliefs were solidifying and can no longer be easily changed.

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“Slow down, Sire” I yelled and my voice echoed throughout the Castle. “Merlin, I’ve told you before. You don’t need to open every door for me. I am perfectly capable”. “Then what of my duties then?, I protested, “Are you going to start mucking out stables and polishing your own armor?” “Don’t be daft, Merlin” Arthur glared, “I would never do that”. “Of course not”, I said, rolling my eyes.

Thankful that he was still walking in front of me. I attempted to run in front of him and block him from moving forward, but he stepped aside while my body continued to move toward the floor. “Hmmmh”, I wheezed, trying to ascertain the injuries I just aquired. “Having fun down there?”, Arthur teased, holding out his arm toward me. Grabbing on, he pulled me up not realizing his own strength and I collapsed righ into his chest. Swaying, I almost brought him back to the floor with me.

“Never a dull moment with you”, Arthur murmured, brushing invisible dirt off of his shirt. “That’s only because you are here”, I said mocking Arthur’s voice, “Now, will you let me open the door for you, Sire?”. “Fine”, Arthur exclaimed, allowing me to open the door to the council chambers.

The Council were already sitting in their usual seats, probably wondering why Arthur pushed up this meeting, and more importantly why Arthur was late.

“Gentlemen, my apologies,” he said, smiling at the Council. Gods, Arthur clearly knew how to charm. “Thank you for allowing us to push up today’s session, I have somehting very important to discuss”. That must be what he was referring to last night.

“As you all know, we have recently added to our ranks. My newly appointed Knights have certainly improved our numbers and skill levels.” Arthur said clear and concise. “Allowing non nobles back into the Knighthood has been a blessing for all citizens of Camelot, and I wish to expand on that”. Whatever he was going to say next, he was very determined. “And that is why I want to include the common people on the council”. The room went silent, as if trying to register Arthur’s words. “It is a fact that Camelot would not function without the hard work of the servants, laborers and farmers. So, I declare that we shall have a representative member of each subsection of Camelot attend these meetings. For a King is only as great as the people he leads”.

Looking around the room, the men glanced between themselves, not daring to speak out of turn”. That being said, I value your options as well. Please tell me your questions and concerns”.

A man on the opposite side from Arthur said “Your Grace, I value your judgement and am willing to see your vision put in place. I served under both your Father and Mother, and can see that you received the best parts of each of them. “I Appreciate those words”, Arthur said shaking his head and moved his eyes around to the other men awaiting feedback. “Anyone else?” Arthur asked, hoping for any additional thoughts on his decree.

After a few more moments, Geoffrey of Monmouth interrupted the silence. “Just allow us until the morning so that I may be able to draw up the new law, then you can make your announcement and appoint the new members of the council. “At your leisure”, Arthur followed up with, “If you need anything further today, I’ll be training with the Knights; you may reach my manservant, Merlin”. “Will do, your Majesty” the men spoke in unison. “The Council is dismissed” Arthur stated loud enough for those outside to hear.

The guards opened the two large doors and Arthur was making his way toward them before I was able to move my body. “Merlin!” he snapped, “We can’t be late, hurry up now”. Sometimes Arthur's actions really puzzled me, and made me wonder what he would be like without a crown. Then I am ordered to my next task, and am reminded that he is still a supercilious prat.