I've been falling behind on wordbound prompts, but mainly because the return of classes means I am on fire with my writing and therefore am not relying on the prompts to move forward. (Seriously, sitting in on the class you TA for is amazing concentrated writing time.) But apparently my brain has been paying more attention than I because I looked back at this prompt and realized it influenced my writing this week. Merlin is struggling to let go of being responsible for everything. Good thing he has Gwen.
In other news, I was bored and started looking up writing contests. I found a couple I might consider for next year, some ones with weekly prizes, and one or two that I might consider submitting my one good short story to. Maybe my nano from last year will eventually get submitted to one of them. But my goal for that story is publishing, so we will see. It needs more work before I send it off to someone professional.
Favourite writing from this week:
A week and a half later and routines had been settles into. Merlin woke up Arthur in the morning while Chet brought breakfast. Merlin sorted documents while Chet helped Arthur dress. Most other chores alternated between the two servants and Nerlin learned that he had more time to himself.
He spent his time writing letter to friends outside of Camelot and actually studying books of magic. He particularly enjoyed a book intended for teachers of magic covering the basics.
What he was enjoying most, however, was the chance to sit with Gwen at the joust celebrating the coronation.
He arrived late on purpose, lingering in the library before leisurely strolling out to the tournament ring. He waited for a break in the action before sliding onto the bench next to Gwen.
“Merlin!” she exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”
“I’m watching the joust.” He smiled widely at her.
She swatted his arm. “You know what I mean.”
“The people needed to see that Chet is officially Arthur’s servant now.” Merlin waved in the direction of the Royal stands. Arthur was sitting on a plain chair, not the overly ornate one Uther had preferred. Behind him, Chet was the image of a perfect servant. He saw when Chet saw his wave and the other man scowled slightly. “Arthur can’t stand not being about the compete,” Merlin explained. “He’s been complaining all week. I had to blackmail him in order to convince him that competing in disguise was not an option.”
“Who would host if he competed?” Gwen added. “I can’t see Leon doing it.
Merlin shook his head. “I can’t see anyone else being loud enough.” Merlin turned his attention to the match. “Besides, you and I both know he couldn’t stand being anonymous during this whole tournament. Who are you supporting?”
Gwen lifted the scrap of blue fabric in her lap. “Blue. Specifically the blue diamond.”
“Are you sure that’s who you want to support?”
“Why? Do you know who it is?” She shoved Merlin when he said nothing. “You do. Tell me!”
“Nope, that would spoil all the fun.” Merlin smiled wide, hiding the niggling feeling. When he looked at the roster, there was no blue diamond. Someone had entered late. And with a tournament like this, it could be anyone. He could hide his face. Perhaps he was sent to kill Arthur. He wasn’t competing, sure, but he was a stationary target, perfect for a long range attack.
“Merlin? Is something wrong?”
But maybe it was only a knight who signed up late and therefore nothing to worry about. “It’s been quiet and calm for too long,” Merlin muttered, putting his elbows on his legs and resting his chin in his hands. “This is Camelot; there is always trouble. What am I missing?”
Gwen put her arm around Merlin and pulled him into a hug. “This is just leftover stress from the transition. The coronation went smoothly, Arthur’s chambers are properly set up and decorated, invitations and announcements for the celebration were sent out, and you are settling into your new role as the head of the household.
“Don’t remind me about that one.”
“You know Arthur asked me to make you nicer clothes.”
Merlin raised his head to look at her in surprise. “Really? We’re talking about the same Arthur here? Or is the Steward’s name Arthur too?”
“No, silly. His name is Kay. How did you not know that? Yes Arthur asked me to get you nice clothes. He tried to say it was because he was king now and didn’t want you to give a bad impression, but you know he really cares. He even knew what colours you prefer.”
Merlin put his head on Gwen’s shoulder. The crowd cheered as the green circle knight unhorsed the knight in black circles. “Still worried though.”
“Hey, come on now. Enjoy your time off. You always take on too much responsibility. You aren’t the only one who cares about Camelot and the king. There are knights, guards, and everyone who works in the castle. You aren’t alone, so stop acting like you are.” Gwen glanced up at the angle of the sun. “Up you get, you and I are going to have an early lunch at the Chalice. This moping is nothing food can’t fix.”
