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Uther finds his son seating द्वारा the window in his apartment. He closes the door behind him slowly and walks towards Arthur. He has learned what happened from Merlin and though he liked Aredian’s idea, he prefers the current situation better. Arthur is दिल broken because of the girl, Gwen, and what better opportunity to get closer to his son than now. Uther will pretend he didn’t know anything about the incident या the girl. He will allow Arthur to confide to him and offer his support. He will buy his son’s trust and slowly Arthur will turn to him completely.
Arthur thinks he hears someone around his apartment. He flinches in his seat. Is it her? Has she returned, he thinks to himself. His दिल flutters slightly. He knows he shouldn’t hope too much but, there’s no harm in at least trying.
“Who’s there?” he asks, searching with his hand. His दिल flips in anticipation. He hopes it’s her but something in his दिल tells him he will be disappointed. He moves to get up but Uther hands gets to him first, stopping him. Arthur’s दिल sinks. It’s not her after all. His sadness resumes.
“It’s me, your father.”
‘What’s he doing here?’ Arthur thinks to himself sarcastically. “Oh…” Arthur sits back, his face blank and sad. Uther recognises the expression well, quite familiar with it. He has seen it many times on Arthur’s face before, whenever Uther is concerned.
“Don’t आप want to say hello to me, Arthur?” Uther knows what the answer will be but he still decides to give it a shot.
“I’m sorry father… what brings आप here?” Arthur asks impatiently, his voice flat and emotionless. Uther sighs deeply. Typical father son conversation.
“Are आप still angry with me Arthur?
“Is that what आप are here for? To ask me this ridiculous सवाल to which आप already know the answer?” Arthur asks. ‘Why doesn’t he just leave me alone?’ he thinks again.
“Arthur, look… whatever happened between us… please forgive me son. I know I haven’t been the father आप expected but give me a chance…”
“Too late for that, Father. आप लॉस्ट your opportunity,” Arthur cuts Uther before the old man can finish his conversation.
“But I’m your family, Arthur, and आप are mine! Please… I beg you… do consider forgiving me, Arthur. आप are my son!”
“Glad to see आप finally realised that, Father… unfortunately, it’s a little late for me,” Arthur says in sarcasm again.
“Say what आप want, Arthur, I am not here to argue with you. I came back for reconciliation… to become a father. And I am asking like a father to a son, please forgive me,” Uther pleads again.
Arthur’s दिल sinks. He has never heard his father pleading like he is right now. He didn’t wish to be nasty to his father but, thinking back all the things कहा and exchanged between them, Arthur isn’t sure if he is ready to forgive his father just yet.
“Father, please don’t do this to me. I can’t… not now. What आप are here for?”
“Arthur…”
“Father… please!” Arthur raises his voice. “Just tell me why आप are here now?”
Uther sigh sadly. “I heard what happened? Merlin told me… are आप alright, son?”
“Yes, I am… I’m all right” Arthur says flatly.
Uther walks closer to his son. Arthur feels his father’s presence but he just wishes his father would leave him to grieve alone. And why the hell did Merlin tell his father about the incident? Wait till Merlin gets home.
“You hurt या something?”
“I am FINE, Father… now, if आप please I’ll like some time alone, it’s been a very tiring दिन and rest is all I prefer at the moment.” Arthur is getting impatient.
“I’m just here to…”
“To what, Father? To see if I’m dead already, या will be? Why are आप here? I haven’t got the time for आप या your sympathies… I’d just like to have some time on my own… so please… leave!” Arthur waves his hand and rakes it through his hair. Dropping his head, he shuts his eyes and sighs in frustration. ‘Come on father, just leave, before I start regretting what I say’ he thinks in silence.
Uther reaches out and pats Arthur’s shoulder. Arthur doesn’t try to elude him; at least this is all he can offer his father. “I understand things haven’t been good for आप these couple of days, but I just want आप to know that if आप need anything, anything at all… आप know where to find me,” he says. “I didn’t come here to argue with आप but to make sure आप are all right. आप are my son, Arthur, my only bloodline and I am worried for you. I didn’t know what happened and it saddens me to know I have to learn about आप from others. I understand we haven’t been able to see eye to an eye on lots of issues, but I have never stopped loving आप as my son. I suppose… it’s all I can say at the moment. Take care, Arthur,” Uther says and leaves. But he stops short द्वारा the तालिका, टेबल and turns around. “Don’t think I’m helping आप out of sympathy, no… I am helping आप because this is what a father should do. I लॉस्ट my opportunity to be a good father when I had the chance but I don’t want to lose any more, not when it concerns my only son. I प्यार you, Arthur, take care of yourself,” Uther adds and spins back and starts heading to the door.
Arthur feels guilty for the treatment he gives his father. He is angry, there’s no doubt in that, and he is channeling his anger towards his old man. What does his father know? या what did Uther do to deserve absorbing Arthur’s anger? Arthur is angry with himself. He hasn’t been fair to Gwen and now he is repeating the same mistake with his father. Uther means only goodwill, and as far as Uther is concerned, he is here to meet his son and Arthur should respect what his father is doing for him, not scorn him even if it sounds a tad suspicious. Uther, a changed man? Arthur isn’t sure about that but at the moment Uther deserves respect. Arthur should give his father respect. Even if he doesn’t want to do it for Uther, Arthur should consider it for himself because Arthur has never been disrespectful of another no matter who they are.
“Father, wait!” he looks up.
Uther stops in his stride and turns around. “Yes, Arthur?” his eyes flashing with hope. But deep in his heart, Uther’s relishing his first success. ‘It’s working’ he thinks menacingly.
Arthur didn’t know how to start. He looks disturbed but after a couple of minutes, he gathers his strength and says, “Look… I’m sorry. I am not exactly in good mood and…”
“Arthur, it’s all right. आप don’t have to explain it to me. I understand what you’ve been through and I know आप need all the rest in the world…”
“Father, I’m fine” Arthur cuts him short again, waving his hand in front of him to make the statement. “I’m just… sad, that’s all”
“Is it about your friend?”
Arthur’s mouth drops. ‘How in the world?’ he thinks. [/i]‘It’s impossible …’[/i] “How do आप know that?”
“Merlin tells me आप and your friend had been hurt at the Diner, so… I suppose that’s why आप are sad, for that girl.”
Now Arthur didn’t know what to say at all. “I… yes, yes I am”
“You want to talk about it?”
“No!”
“All right, Arthur. आप don’t have to if आप don’t feel like it. But if आप need me, आप know how to find me, yeah.”
Arthur feels stupid. He has been consistently shouting at his father and yet Uther’s been nothing but kind to him. ‘What is wrong with me? My father wants to help me and all I’ve been doing is shouting in his face. What kind a son am I?’ he asks himself. Someone touches his shoulder.
“Arthur?”
“Sorry Father, I shouldn’t have shouted at you… I am sorry,” Arthur says softly.
“I understand, Son, you’re sad about your friend and anyone in your place would do the same. I understand how आप feel.”
“You do?” Arthur couldn’t believe himself. ‘This is a dream, when I wake up all this will be gone’ Arthur tells himself.
“Yes, from what Merlin tells me it seems both of आप are pretty shaken up, the girl especially. Tell me, is she hurt?”
“I’m not sure, Father, but her face is swollen because she was slapped द्वारा those men who attacked us. I’m not sure if she is badly hurt या not.”
“But she must be very shaken up द्वारा the incident. I just hope it doesn’t traumatize her… poor girl,” Uther sympathizes for Gwen. Arthur still cannot believe he is hearing all this.
“It’s my fault, father, if only I could have saved her…”
“No, Arthur, it isn’t your fault at all… who would ever say this to you? आप have done me proud, Son, I heard आप tried your very best to save her and isn’t that proof enough you’ve done your best?”
“No, Father, I haven’t done anything. I didn’t save her at all, she saved me.”
“What do आप mean, Arthur?”
“I could have been killed if she hadn’t alerted me, and all I ended up with is a स्लैश on my arm. She saved me, Father… I did nothing for her in return.”
“You’re hurt!”
“It’s just a cut, Father… nothing serious.” Arthur regrets telling his father about his injuries. “It’ll be gone in a couple days and I’ll be good as new.”
“God, I was scared when I heard about your injuries. Thank heavens आप are all right. No, Arthur, आप mustn’t feel disheartened द्वारा this. आप gave your best shot and what could आप do, Son?”
“If only… never mind,” Arthur dismisses the thought that has been swirling in his head for a couple of days. Uther realises what Arthur’s mind is troubled with.
“Arthur… sometimes, in life we cannot do everything for everyone. आप did your best and आप had your limitations. I am sure she understands that. No one is prefect, Son.”
“But…”
“Listen, Arthur, आप gave your best out there for her but unfortunately luck isn’t on your side so आप had to back down. But she isn’t blaming you, is she? I am very sure she understands and will forgive you. But आप must forgive yourself, Arthur. When Merlin told me about your heroics, I wasn’t angry या कड़वा at you, instead I am proud. I am और proud of आप now than I was when आप excelled in your studies. But do me a favour and stop feeling sorry for what happened. Let go of what happened and lets concentrate on the future, yeah?”
Arthur is truly in dreamland. Hearing his father speak with wisdom puts him in awe for a while. He has never heard Uther say anything like this to him before या admit he is proud of his son. This is the first time, and how Arthur has longed for these words. Though it comes a tad too late, Arthur admits, he is in awe with his father at the moment. But, is it for real?
“Arthur?”
“Huh? Oh… I know, Father… thank you. It’s… nice hearing आप speak like this after…”
“I know Son, I know,” Uther shakes his head in dismay. “I have been a jerk.”
“Father, please… don’t do this to yourself. What’s done is done… maybe after today everything will change, who knows?” Arthur suggests, giving hope. Uther smirks.
“Thank you, Arthur. Is your arm… are आप sure it’s all right?”
“Yes, it’s just a slash. I will be fine.”
“Good to hear that… do आप want to visit your friend? If आप do, then maybe we can do that together.”
Arthur cannot believe what he hears. He has to pinch himself to believe everything. “No, Father, not today. I am sure she’d like to be on her own for now. I will take आप to meet her when the right time calls for it.”
“All right… I’ll take my leave now, but do take care, Arthur, and please, ask me if आप ever need anything. Let’s forget what happened before and start over with what ever is left of us both. आप are my only son and I beg you… please.”
“Father, please!! Don’t do this to me… no और begging, please.”
“Sure, Son, I’ll keep that in mind. Take care,” Uther says and leaves, with a smirk on his face. Arthur is left pondering if everything he just heard is really true या not. Has his father really changed या is it one of his schemes again? Arthur doesn’t know what to make out from this conversation. Should he trust his father या should he just be cautious? Uther Pendragon isn’t one who to mellow easily but if he happens to दिखाना any sign of that, then Arthur should be prepared for anything.
Two weeks later …
Elena tosses the गुलाबी dress she held and picks up the blue लगाम, हेलटर necked evening dress and holds it against herself in front of the mirror. She pouts and throws it away and spins around, her hands on her hips. She looks back at the बिस्तर where a mountain of dresses lie in a heap and a smile escapes her lips. She chuckles to herself and hums a tune as she walks back to her wardrobe and reopens her cupboard. She gasps.
“Oh dear, I need new clothes and I have to go shopping,” she tells herself as she looks at the almost half empty cupboard. She pulls out the remaining dresses and piles them on चोटी, शीर्ष the already piled heap on her bed. She bites her lips and sighs. Today is an important दिन in her life and she isn’t ready, neither physically nor mentally. After almost five years, she is finally going to see Arthur and she hasn’t got the appropriate dress to weat!
“Come on, Elena… think! What are आप going to wear?” she asks herself and crosses the floor to get to her बिस्तर and sits down. She carelessly digs her hand into the heap and fishes out dresses, one द्वारा one.
“I have to be on my best tonight… perfect. No mistakes. Nothing but the best will do,” she tells herself and sighs, throwing the dresses away. She falls back and lies on her back on her bed, thinking about Arthur. No matter what she wears tonight, it will make no difference. He will not be able to see her at all, let alone admire what she’s wearing. Elena rolls to her left and sighs sadly. The moment she heard about his blindness her दिल exploded. She was in the midst of her exams and the news hits her like a torpedo, exploding in her head. She didn’t expect it when her father brought her the news, didn’t want to believe it at all. But after Uther Pendragon confirmed the news, she knew she has to prepare for the worst. She cried all week, thinking about Arthur and mourning his loss. She wished she was with him to comfort him, but her exams took her time and despite preparing for the exams, she couldn’t concentrate on it because her mind and दिल was set upon Arthur. And it almost cost her marks. Thankfully she managed to divert her attentions back to the examinations and obtained if not the best but credible results. She wanted to come घर immediately but Uther advised against it, saying it wasn’t the wisest thing to do because of Arthur’s condition. And because of that she had to postpone her travel back to Camelot until today. या she would have been here a महीना ago. Of course she was here before. On the दिन Arthur met in that unfortunate accident; Elena and her father were supposed to meet Arthur and Uther Pendragon. She came back to Camelot for a brief two दिन visit to meet Arthur but didn’t get to meet him because he was involved in the accident. Uther didn’t tell her या her father in the beginning. He simply कहा Arthur had an emergency and couldn’t make it for the dinner. Despite being disappointed, Elena knows one दिन she will be married to him and can afford to attend countless रात का खाना parties with Arthur. She will have him for herself and it’s the one thought that keeps on her toes.
She turns back on her back and stares at the ceiling. She wonders how Arthur is coping with the blindness. Has he overcome it या has he obtained the proper medications for his blindness या has he simply दिया up? She has been thinking about Arthur all the way home, nothing else occupies her mind since she learned of his tragedy. Her दिल goes out to him and she wonders if he thought about her just the way she does him.
“Elena?”
Elena looks up and finds her faithful servant, Camille waiting द्वारा the door.
“Camille… come in, please,” Elena wakes up and gestures for the old woman to enter. Camille does and as she steps in, she looks at the mess in surprise. Elena follows the servant’s look and smiles back at Camille sheepishly.
“Sorry, Camille… I will clean it up in a while,” Elena says and slips down from the बिस्तर but Camille waves at her and starts cleaning up the mess herself.
“Nonsense, Elena… this is my duty and let me do it… but why mess the lovely dresses, may I ask?”
“I can’t find anything appropriate to wear tonight, Camille… I need new dress. What do आप think?”
“But Elena, these are all new dresses… isn’t it so?”
“Hmm… yes, but…” Elena trails.
“Something’s wrong, child?” Camille scoops another dress from the floor and hangs it around her arm.
“I have to visit Arthur tonight, आप know that don’t you? And…”
“You are nervous, child… I can sense it,” Camille says with a smile and carries on picking up the dresses.
“Yes, and I… want to make an impression on him. Impress him,” Elena says and helps Camille pick up the dresses off the floor.
“You will impress him, Elena, with या without a new dress, I am sure of that.”
“But, he is blind, Camille…”
“I know, Sir told me about Mr. Arthur’s condition. Poor boy, must be feeling distraught and all alone right now. But trust me, Elena, if he likes you, he will like you… even without all these…” Camille points at the dresses.
“You think so?”
“Yes. Now stop feeling low about yourself. आप are one pretty young lady who will meet her handsome knight in shining armour tonight and don’t let anything tell आप otherwise,” Camille flicks Elena’s nose and continues to pick up the dresses.
“Camille, आप know I haven’t seen him for five years… I don’t know how much he has changed या how he looks now and if he’ll like me… how can आप be so sure everything will be all right?”
“Because I know you, child. I might not know Master Arthur but I do know आप very well. And I have confidence in you.”
“Camille, that is different… what we are discussing here is about feelings. Arthur’s feelings towards me. I don’t know if he likes me.”
“He doesn’t like you?” Camille looks at Elena surprisingly.
“He never कहा anything to me, that’s for sure,” Elena says, recalling back all the conversation she and Arthur had when they were in their teens.
“But that doesn’t mean he will not like you.”
“With Arthur, it’s a bit different, actually.”
“And why is that?”
“I’ve known Arthur since we were children, I played with him and he would visit me when ever there was time but as we grew up, he started changing. He stopped visiting me and confined himself with his studies. We rarely spent any time together, let alone talked, and after I left to pursue my studies, we drifted further. I wrote to him but he never wrote back and I found out from his father that Arthur kept my letters but he isn’t the लेखन type so I forgive him there. I tried to call but he never calls back, and… I gave up on him Camille. If it wasn’t for my father, I would have found someone else back in the university, trust me, I would have.”
“What stopped you?”
“Arthur,” Elena says and sits back on the bed.
“Your प्यार for him?”
“I wouldn’t say it’s love, Camille, not yet. I like him, yes, but… I don’t know anything else beyond that. I didn’t have the chance to find out because it’s been just my feelings not his. We have yet to find out his version in this drama,” Elena arches her brow.
“If Master Arthur has no such feelings for you, Elena, would आप be disappointed?” Camille asks as she drops the pile she holds on the बिस्तर and starts folding the dresses, one द्वारा one. Elena looks at her servant with a surprised face.
‘What an interesting question’ Elena thinks. She hasn’t thought about this before because, as far as her दिल is concerned, Arthur is hers. End of story.
“Elena?”
“Yes Camille, I will be. Not just disappointed, but hurt… here,” Elena points at her heart. “I’ll die without him, Camille.”
“But आप कहा yourself that you’re not sure if he likes आप the way आप do him?”
“I know, but my दिल isn’t giving me the chance to let him go, no! I can’t, Camille… I can’t imagine a life without him.”
“And what will do आप if he…”
“I will force him!” Elena says quickly. Camille gasps. The जवाब stuns Elena herself but this is what she’s been telling herself when she traveled back home.
“Sounds pretty harsh huh? I know, Camille, it’s wrong, yet I just can’t give him up, not yet. I have to have him… I won’t give him up for anyone.”
“Elena…”
“Camille, I am sorry but I can’t change my decision. I know it’s immoral to say या talk like this but I have a heart, Camille, and I don’t want to be hurt”
“I understand, but आप have to understand other’s feelings too”
“I know, but not now, Camille. I haven’t seen him for years and I don’t know what to expect या anticipate. I just… let me just meet him first and we can start from there.”
“Elena, dear… I am with आप on whatever decisions आप make. I don’t want आप to be hurt and I want आप to make the right decisions in your life. Listen to your heart, is all I will say.”
“Thanks, Camille, I will” Elena reaches out and hugs her servant.
“Now… आप were saying something about dresses?”
“Yes… आप have a plan?”
“Let’s go shopping, Elena, let’s get आप the best dress available,” Camille says with a wink.
“Splendid, Camille, come on let’s go” Elena says drag Camille out from the room.
Merlin helps Arthur with his vest and swipes the dust of his friend’s pants. Once done he stands back with his arms crossed across his chest and looks at Arthur, his brow arching, lips twitching.
“Merlin?” Arthur calls out.
“Yeah?”
“What are आप doing?” Arthur realises Merlin haven’t spoken a word after helping him with the vest.
“Looking at you… trying to see if I have done a good job या screwed it up,” Merlin says jokingly. Arthur smiles.
“Of course you’ve done a good job, like आप always do… now tell me, how do I look?”
“Like a prince,” Merlin जवाब and examines Arthur from चोटी, शीर्ष to toe. He nods to himself, agreeing he’s done a commendable job in getting his friend ready.
“Thank you, now will आप be kind enough to walk me to the living room?” Arthur asks.
“Sure, come on,” Merlin takes Arthur’s arm and leads him to the living room where Uther is waiting for them.
“Arthur, आप look dashing,” Uther says with a smile, looking at Merlin and then at his son.
“Thank you, Father… but credit should go where it’s due. Merlin did all this for me, so if आप are looking for someone to thank, then it’s Merlin.”
“You are absolutely right, Arthur. He looks great, Merlin” Uther says. Merlin smiles and releases Arthur’s hand from his.
“Thank you… I just did what any friend will do. So, have fun tonight Arthur,” Merlin tells his friend. Arthur smiles faintly and Merlin understands that smile. Arthur isn’t interested in meeting Elena but Uther has been very persuasive lately and to keep his father happy, Arthur agreed to meet her. Though physically Arthur is meeting Elena, mentally Arthur isn’t ready. Merlin feels bad for his friend but what can he do? This is a meeting between two very old families and who is Merlin to deny Arthur the visitation? या stop him from meeting Elena? Though Uther कहा Elena is here to meet Arthur, Merlin knows the real reason is something else, something more. Elena and Arthur have been pushed together since they were babies; a promise Uther made to his friend Godwyn after the death of Arthur’s mother. Since then Elena grew up with Arthur in her mind. Though Arthur fancied her in his childhood, it was merely on a friendship basis and as he grew up, his interest in her started to fade. And now after the arrival of Gwen in his life, he confessed to Merlin he has only one spot in his दिल and it’s already taken द्वारा Gwen. Elena will remain his friend but he cannot bring himself to offer her more. Merlin fakes a smile at Uther when the latter turns around to meet him and Merlin wonders why Uther is insisting Arthur to meet up with Elena so soon. Knowing Arthur, Merlin doesn’t think it was wise to push both Elena and Arthur into this relationship so fast. Uther should allow Arthur to recover, regain his लॉस्ट confidence and be prepared to meet the world before bringing आगे the meeting. Merlin didn’t care much for the meeting but he hopes Arthur will keep his anger in check. Bursting his चोटी, शीर्ष in the presence of Godwyn and Elena isn’t the wisest move, even for someone like Arthur.
“Are आप ready, Arthur?” Uther asks, breaking the silence.
“Yes, Father.”
“Then, let’s leave,” Uther says and leads Arthur to the door.
“Goodbye, Arthur, see आप later Mr. Uther,” Merlin says, standing where he did a while ago.
“Goodbye, Merlin,” Arthur says softly.
“Goodbye Merlin” Uther उत्तरों and opens the door. He helps Arthur out and closes the door behind them.
“Are they gone?” Gwaine steps out from the kitchen, licking his spoon. He is eating ice cream and walks right up to Merlin and stands beside him, the spoon still stuck in his mouth.
Merlin looks at Gwaine quickly and sighs. “Yeah, just left.”
“How was he?” Gwaine asks, digging his spoon into the ice cream in the tub and rakes his hair.
“Not happy. I noted that much.”
“As I expected… And how was the dictator?”
“He was thrilled… smiling from ear to an ear, I have never seen him happy like this before,” Merlin answers, still not looking at Gwaine.
“Why wouldn’t he be? This is what he wanted from the beginning, isn’t it?” Gwaine snaps angrily. “He plotted this well Merlin, he’s one clever…” Gwaine stops as Merlin turns his way. “Sorry bout’ that,” he adds and walks to the sofa.
“I understand your anger, Gwaine, but Arthur is his son and we are just his friends. What can we do? If Uther insists on this meeting, there is nothing आप या I can say. Besides, at the end of the दिन Arthur will consider his father above us. He has been listening to him a lot these past few days.”
“That’s crap, Merlin. Uther is one clever puppeteer and he’s been planning to get Arthur back since that accident because his son had been slipping away from his grips. He was losing Arthur to us and now he plans to reconcile with him with his feigned love. He’s been controlling Arthur before and what’s makes आप so sure he is thinking of Arthur’s best interests now?”
“What’s your point, Gwaine?”
“Merlin… don’t tell me आप believe this!” Gwaine points at the door and looks bewildered at Merlin. “That this meeting with Godwyn and all the visits Uther’s been making here are actually in Arthur’s best interest?”
“I don’t believe him, Gwaine.”
“Precisely! That’s what I’m asking you. I don’t believe this shit either. He is the sole reason why Arthur is blind today and after dumping his son to survive alone, now he comes back to reconcile? On what merits does he think he deserves forgiveness from Arthur? And how dare he try to get back in all our good books!!”
“Gwaine…” Merlin nears his friend.
“Don’t आप dare calm me down, Merlin! I went berserk the moment आप told me Arthur is reconciling with his father. What is Arthur thinking? That son of a…” Gwaine stops and sighs, “That man doesn’t deserve to be forgiven for everything he caused Arthur. If I was Arthur, I would rather be alone all my life than to have anyone like Uther as my father.”
“Gwaine, it’s not fair for Arthur here. Uther is his only family and what’s wrong in forgiving his own father? After all, Uther is trying to turn over a new leaf.”
“Come on Merlin, आप are not believing all that crap, are you?”
“I…”
“That tyrant spits venom in his talk and nothing he says या does can be trusted. Nothing!!” Gwaine spits again, in anger.
“I didn’t say I believe him but I’m just trying to think of this from Arthur’s point of view.”
“I’m not looking at this from anyone’s point. I don’t have to. I have known Uther quite enough to suspect this is just another ploy in his drama. I am suspicious of his graciousness towards Arthur, his behaviour towards us, the संपूर्ण, कुल मिलाकर attitude change… I am suspicious of him on the whole. आप and Arthur might be blind but not me. I will always be extra cautious with him. Know why he was grinning like an नितंब, गधा a while ago? Because this meeting has a significant meaning for him. He wants Elena to be married off to Arthur द्वारा any means and he’s been getting in Arthur’s good सूची to get his son agree to meeting Elena!”
“That I very much suspected, Gwaine.”
“He’s an asshole, Merlin. Pardon me for saying it out loud but that’s what he is.”
“We ought to wait and see what happens tonight and then we can decide how to tackle the subject, yeah. Just be patient please, Gwaine. I understand your anger, but this is our friend we are talking about, and for Arthur’s sake, let’s be patient and deal with this carefully.”
“For आप and Arthur…” Gwaine points at Merlin, digs into his ice cream and nods.
“Thanks,” Merlin says and sighs. Gwaine scoops a spoonful of ice cream into his mouth.
“Have आप spoken to her?” Gwaine asks, licking the back of the spoon. Merlin turns towards him, his face quizzed.
“Who?”
“Gwen of course, who else?” Gwaine tells Merlin.
“No, after she left the apartment, I haven’t spoken या met her anywhere. You?”
“Same here. I think we should talk with her,” Gwaine suggests.
“I feel the same, too, but Arthur made us promise not to reveal anything to her. How can we defy that?”
“Screw Arthur, Merlin!! I really don’t care what he made us promise. I think that poor girl deserves a proper explanation and if Arthur can’t do it, let us do it on his behalf. First and foremost, I’m pretty gutted द्वारा the way she was treated and second, she likes him. That is all that matters to me. And finally, Arthur likes her too. I want them to be reconciled द्वारा all means. I am willing to sacrifice anything to see that.”
“I do as well, Gwaine, but…”
“Merlin, I know you’re Arthur’s best friend, but sometimes, आप have to defy him. Go against his wishes and maybe पंच him in the face to make a statement या two. What I’m trying to say is, Arthur really likes Gwen and she likes him. They are match made in heaven and I feel it’s fated. But Arthur is अभिनय like an arse द्वारा turning his back on her because of a real lousy reason, his guilt. I’m sorry, but for me it doesn’t make any sense. And I want to correct it. The only way we can do that is persuade Gwen to accept him back in her life. She wouldn’t do that unless she knows the real story Arthur rejected her. And who to explain it to her if not us?”
“Everything sounds good, Gwaine, but…”
“Look, Merlin, if you’re hesitant on doing it, fine. Let me do it. If Arthur finds out, I will be responsible. What do आप say?”
“No, Gwaine. I feel responsible for the hurt Gwen endured and I want to rectify the situation as much आप do. I just feel guilty dishonoring the promise we made to Arthur.”
“I understand, Merlin, but I think Arthur belongs with Gwen. Not Elena. With all due respect, I have no problem with Elena but she doesn’t match Arthur at all. She does not understand him like Gwen does. For me Gwen is the ideal woman for Arthur.”
“Well, let’s get going, then. We shouldn’t be wasting any time,” Merlin says with a smile.
“Now आप are talking, mate!” Gwaine adds.
Uther finds his son seating द्वारा the window in his apartment. He closes the door behind him slowly and walks towards Arthur. He has learned what happened from Merlin and though he liked Aredian’s idea, he prefers the current situation better. Arthur is दिल broken because of the girl, Gwen, and what better opportunity to get closer to his son than now. Uther will pretend he didn’t know anything about the incident या the girl. He will allow Arthur to confide to him and offer his support. He will buy his son’s trust and slowly Arthur will turn to him completely.
Arthur thinks he hears someone around his apartment. He flinches in his seat. Is it her? Has she returned, he thinks to himself. His दिल flutters slightly. He knows he shouldn’t hope too much but, there’s no harm in at least trying.
“Who’s there?” he asks, searching with his hand. His दिल flips in anticipation. He hopes it’s her but something in his दिल tells him he will be disappointed. He moves to get up but Uther hands gets to him first, stopping him. Arthur’s दिल sinks. It’s not her after all. His sadness resumes.
“It’s me, your father.”
‘What’s he doing here?’ Arthur thinks to himself sarcastically. “Oh…” Arthur sits back, his face blank and sad. Uther recognises the expression well, quite familiar with it. He has seen it many times on Arthur’s face before, whenever Uther is concerned.
“Don’t आप want to say hello to me, Arthur?” Uther knows what the answer will be but he still decides to give it a shot.
“I’m sorry father… what brings आप here?” Arthur asks impatiently, his voice flat and emotionless. Uther sighs deeply. Typical father son conversation.
“Are आप still angry with me Arthur?
“Is that what आप are here for? To ask me this ridiculous सवाल to which आप already know the answer?” Arthur asks. ‘Why doesn’t he just leave me alone?’ he thinks again.
“Arthur, look… whatever happened between us… please forgive me son. I know I haven’t been the father आप expected but give me a chance…”
“Too late for that, Father. आप लॉस्ट your opportunity,” Arthur cuts Uther before the old man can finish his conversation.
“But I’m your family, Arthur, and आप are mine! Please… I beg you… do consider forgiving me, Arthur. आप are my son!”
“Glad to see आप finally realised that, Father… unfortunately, it’s a little late for me,” Arthur says in sarcasm again.
“Say what आप want, Arthur, I am not here to argue with you. I came back for reconciliation… to become a father. And I am asking like a father to a son, please forgive me,” Uther pleads again.
Arthur’s दिल sinks. He has never heard his father pleading like he is right now. He didn’t wish to be nasty to his father but, thinking back all the things कहा and exchanged between them, Arthur isn’t sure if he is ready to forgive his father just yet.
“Father, please don’t do this to me. I can’t… not now. What आप are here for?”
“Arthur…”
“Father… please!” Arthur raises his voice. “Just tell me why आप are here now?”
Uther sigh sadly. “I heard what happened? Merlin told me… are आप alright, son?”
“Yes, I am… I’m all right” Arthur says flatly.
Uther walks closer to his son. Arthur feels his father’s presence but he just wishes his father would leave him to grieve alone. And why the hell did Merlin tell his father about the incident? Wait till Merlin gets home.
“You hurt या something?”
“I am FINE, Father… now, if आप please I’ll like some time alone, it’s been a very tiring दिन and rest is all I prefer at the moment.” Arthur is getting impatient.
“I’m just here to…”
“To what, Father? To see if I’m dead already, या will be? Why are आप here? I haven’t got the time for आप या your sympathies… I’d just like to have some time on my own… so please… leave!” Arthur waves his hand and rakes it through his hair. Dropping his head, he shuts his eyes and sighs in frustration. ‘Come on father, just leave, before I start regretting what I say’ he thinks in silence.
Uther reaches out and pats Arthur’s shoulder. Arthur doesn’t try to elude him; at least this is all he can offer his father. “I understand things haven’t been good for आप these couple of days, but I just want आप to know that if आप need anything, anything at all… आप know where to find me,” he says. “I didn’t come here to argue with आप but to make sure आप are all right. आप are my son, Arthur, my only bloodline and I am worried for you. I didn’t know what happened and it saddens me to know I have to learn about आप from others. I understand we haven’t been able to see eye to an eye on lots of issues, but I have never stopped loving आप as my son. I suppose… it’s all I can say at the moment. Take care, Arthur,” Uther says and leaves. But he stops short द्वारा the तालिका, टेबल and turns around. “Don’t think I’m helping आप out of sympathy, no… I am helping आप because this is what a father should do. I लॉस्ट my opportunity to be a good father when I had the chance but I don’t want to lose any more, not when it concerns my only son. I प्यार you, Arthur, take care of yourself,” Uther adds and spins back and starts heading to the door.
Arthur feels guilty for the treatment he gives his father. He is angry, there’s no doubt in that, and he is channeling his anger towards his old man. What does his father know? या what did Uther do to deserve absorbing Arthur’s anger? Arthur is angry with himself. He hasn’t been fair to Gwen and now he is repeating the same mistake with his father. Uther means only goodwill, and as far as Uther is concerned, he is here to meet his son and Arthur should respect what his father is doing for him, not scorn him even if it sounds a tad suspicious. Uther, a changed man? Arthur isn’t sure about that but at the moment Uther deserves respect. Arthur should give his father respect. Even if he doesn’t want to do it for Uther, Arthur should consider it for himself because Arthur has never been disrespectful of another no matter who they are.
“Father, wait!” he looks up.
Uther stops in his stride and turns around. “Yes, Arthur?” his eyes flashing with hope. But deep in his heart, Uther’s relishing his first success. ‘It’s working’ he thinks menacingly.
Arthur didn’t know how to start. He looks disturbed but after a couple of minutes, he gathers his strength and says, “Look… I’m sorry. I am not exactly in good mood and…”
“Arthur, it’s all right. आप don’t have to explain it to me. I understand what you’ve been through and I know आप need all the rest in the world…”
“Father, I’m fine” Arthur cuts him short again, waving his hand in front of him to make the statement. “I’m just… sad, that’s all”
“Is it about your friend?”
Arthur’s mouth drops. ‘How in the world?’ he thinks. [/i]‘It’s impossible …’[/i] “How do आप know that?”
“Merlin tells me आप and your friend had been hurt at the Diner, so… I suppose that’s why आप are sad, for that girl.”
Now Arthur didn’t know what to say at all. “I… yes, yes I am”
“You want to talk about it?”
“No!”
“All right, Arthur. आप don’t have to if आप don’t feel like it. But if आप need me, आप know how to find me, yeah.”
Arthur feels stupid. He has been consistently shouting at his father and yet Uther’s been nothing but kind to him. ‘What is wrong with me? My father wants to help me and all I’ve been doing is shouting in his face. What kind a son am I?’ he asks himself. Someone touches his shoulder.
“Arthur?”
“Sorry Father, I shouldn’t have shouted at you… I am sorry,” Arthur says softly.
“I understand, Son, you’re sad about your friend and anyone in your place would do the same. I understand how आप feel.”
“You do?” Arthur couldn’t believe himself. ‘This is a dream, when I wake up all this will be gone’ Arthur tells himself.
“Yes, from what Merlin tells me it seems both of आप are pretty shaken up, the girl especially. Tell me, is she hurt?”
“I’m not sure, Father, but her face is swollen because she was slapped द्वारा those men who attacked us. I’m not sure if she is badly hurt या not.”
“But she must be very shaken up द्वारा the incident. I just hope it doesn’t traumatize her… poor girl,” Uther sympathizes for Gwen. Arthur still cannot believe he is hearing all this.
“It’s my fault, father, if only I could have saved her…”
“No, Arthur, it isn’t your fault at all… who would ever say this to you? आप have done me proud, Son, I heard आप tried your very best to save her and isn’t that proof enough you’ve done your best?”
“No, Father, I haven’t done anything. I didn’t save her at all, she saved me.”
“What do आप mean, Arthur?”
“I could have been killed if she hadn’t alerted me, and all I ended up with is a स्लैश on my arm. She saved me, Father… I did nothing for her in return.”
“You’re hurt!”
“It’s just a cut, Father… nothing serious.” Arthur regrets telling his father about his injuries. “It’ll be gone in a couple days and I’ll be good as new.”
“God, I was scared when I heard about your injuries. Thank heavens आप are all right. No, Arthur, आप mustn’t feel disheartened द्वारा this. आप gave your best shot and what could आप do, Son?”
“If only… never mind,” Arthur dismisses the thought that has been swirling in his head for a couple of days. Uther realises what Arthur’s mind is troubled with.
“Arthur… sometimes, in life we cannot do everything for everyone. आप did your best and आप had your limitations. I am sure she understands that. No one is prefect, Son.”
“But…”
“Listen, Arthur, आप gave your best out there for her but unfortunately luck isn’t on your side so आप had to back down. But she isn’t blaming you, is she? I am very sure she understands and will forgive you. But आप must forgive yourself, Arthur. When Merlin told me about your heroics, I wasn’t angry या कड़वा at you, instead I am proud. I am और proud of आप now than I was when आप excelled in your studies. But do me a favour and stop feeling sorry for what happened. Let go of what happened and lets concentrate on the future, yeah?”
Arthur is truly in dreamland. Hearing his father speak with wisdom puts him in awe for a while. He has never heard Uther say anything like this to him before या admit he is proud of his son. This is the first time, and how Arthur has longed for these words. Though it comes a tad too late, Arthur admits, he is in awe with his father at the moment. But, is it for real?
“Arthur?”
“Huh? Oh… I know, Father… thank you. It’s… nice hearing आप speak like this after…”
“I know Son, I know,” Uther shakes his head in dismay. “I have been a jerk.”
“Father, please… don’t do this to yourself. What’s done is done… maybe after today everything will change, who knows?” Arthur suggests, giving hope. Uther smirks.
“Thank you, Arthur. Is your arm… are आप sure it’s all right?”
“Yes, it’s just a slash. I will be fine.”
“Good to hear that… do आप want to visit your friend? If आप do, then maybe we can do that together.”
Arthur cannot believe what he hears. He has to pinch himself to believe everything. “No, Father, not today. I am sure she’d like to be on her own for now. I will take आप to meet her when the right time calls for it.”
“All right… I’ll take my leave now, but do take care, Arthur, and please, ask me if आप ever need anything. Let’s forget what happened before and start over with what ever is left of us both. आप are my only son and I beg you… please.”
“Father, please!! Don’t do this to me… no और begging, please.”
“Sure, Son, I’ll keep that in mind. Take care,” Uther says and leaves, with a smirk on his face. Arthur is left pondering if everything he just heard is really true या not. Has his father really changed या is it one of his schemes again? Arthur doesn’t know what to make out from this conversation. Should he trust his father या should he just be cautious? Uther Pendragon isn’t one who to mellow easily but if he happens to दिखाना any sign of that, then Arthur should be prepared for anything.
Two weeks later …
Elena tosses the गुलाबी dress she held and picks up the blue लगाम, हेलटर necked evening dress and holds it against herself in front of the mirror. She pouts and throws it away and spins around, her hands on her hips. She looks back at the बिस्तर where a mountain of dresses lie in a heap and a smile escapes her lips. She chuckles to herself and hums a tune as she walks back to her wardrobe and reopens her cupboard. She gasps.
“Oh dear, I need new clothes and I have to go shopping,” she tells herself as she looks at the almost half empty cupboard. She pulls out the remaining dresses and piles them on चोटी, शीर्ष the already piled heap on her bed. She bites her lips and sighs. Today is an important दिन in her life and she isn’t ready, neither physically nor mentally. After almost five years, she is finally going to see Arthur and she hasn’t got the appropriate dress to weat!
“Come on, Elena… think! What are आप going to wear?” she asks herself and crosses the floor to get to her बिस्तर and sits down. She carelessly digs her hand into the heap and fishes out dresses, one द्वारा one.
“I have to be on my best tonight… perfect. No mistakes. Nothing but the best will do,” she tells herself and sighs, throwing the dresses away. She falls back and lies on her back on her bed, thinking about Arthur. No matter what she wears tonight, it will make no difference. He will not be able to see her at all, let alone admire what she’s wearing. Elena rolls to her left and sighs sadly. The moment she heard about his blindness her दिल exploded. She was in the midst of her exams and the news hits her like a torpedo, exploding in her head. She didn’t expect it when her father brought her the news, didn’t want to believe it at all. But after Uther Pendragon confirmed the news, she knew she has to prepare for the worst. She cried all week, thinking about Arthur and mourning his loss. She wished she was with him to comfort him, but her exams took her time and despite preparing for the exams, she couldn’t concentrate on it because her mind and दिल was set upon Arthur. And it almost cost her marks. Thankfully she managed to divert her attentions back to the examinations and obtained if not the best but credible results. She wanted to come घर immediately but Uther advised against it, saying it wasn’t the wisest thing to do because of Arthur’s condition. And because of that she had to postpone her travel back to Camelot until today. या she would have been here a महीना ago. Of course she was here before. On the दिन Arthur met in that unfortunate accident; Elena and her father were supposed to meet Arthur and Uther Pendragon. She came back to Camelot for a brief two दिन visit to meet Arthur but didn’t get to meet him because he was involved in the accident. Uther didn’t tell her या her father in the beginning. He simply कहा Arthur had an emergency and couldn’t make it for the dinner. Despite being disappointed, Elena knows one दिन she will be married to him and can afford to attend countless रात का खाना parties with Arthur. She will have him for herself and it’s the one thought that keeps on her toes.
She turns back on her back and stares at the ceiling. She wonders how Arthur is coping with the blindness. Has he overcome it या has he obtained the proper medications for his blindness या has he simply दिया up? She has been thinking about Arthur all the way home, nothing else occupies her mind since she learned of his tragedy. Her दिल goes out to him and she wonders if he thought about her just the way she does him.
“Elena?”
Elena looks up and finds her faithful servant, Camille waiting द्वारा the door.
“Camille… come in, please,” Elena wakes up and gestures for the old woman to enter. Camille does and as she steps in, she looks at the mess in surprise. Elena follows the servant’s look and smiles back at Camille sheepishly.
“Sorry, Camille… I will clean it up in a while,” Elena says and slips down from the बिस्तर but Camille waves at her and starts cleaning up the mess herself.
“Nonsense, Elena… this is my duty and let me do it… but why mess the lovely dresses, may I ask?”
“I can’t find anything appropriate to wear tonight, Camille… I need new dress. What do आप think?”
“But Elena, these are all new dresses… isn’t it so?”
“Hmm… yes, but…” Elena trails.
“Something’s wrong, child?” Camille scoops another dress from the floor and hangs it around her arm.
“I have to visit Arthur tonight, आप know that don’t you? And…”
“You are nervous, child… I can sense it,” Camille says with a smile and carries on picking up the dresses.
“Yes, and I… want to make an impression on him. Impress him,” Elena says and helps Camille pick up the dresses off the floor.
“You will impress him, Elena, with या without a new dress, I am sure of that.”
“But, he is blind, Camille…”
“I know, Sir told me about Mr. Arthur’s condition. Poor boy, must be feeling distraught and all alone right now. But trust me, Elena, if he likes you, he will like you… even without all these…” Camille points at the dresses.
“You think so?”
“Yes. Now stop feeling low about yourself. आप are one pretty young lady who will meet her handsome knight in shining armour tonight and don’t let anything tell आप otherwise,” Camille flicks Elena’s nose and continues to pick up the dresses.
“Camille, आप know I haven’t seen him for five years… I don’t know how much he has changed या how he looks now and if he’ll like me… how can आप be so sure everything will be all right?”
“Because I know you, child. I might not know Master Arthur but I do know आप very well. And I have confidence in you.”
“Camille, that is different… what we are discussing here is about feelings. Arthur’s feelings towards me. I don’t know if he likes me.”
“He doesn’t like you?” Camille looks at Elena surprisingly.
“He never कहा anything to me, that’s for sure,” Elena says, recalling back all the conversation she and Arthur had when they were in their teens.
“But that doesn’t mean he will not like you.”
“With Arthur, it’s a bit different, actually.”
“And why is that?”
“I’ve known Arthur since we were children, I played with him and he would visit me when ever there was time but as we grew up, he started changing. He stopped visiting me and confined himself with his studies. We rarely spent any time together, let alone talked, and after I left to pursue my studies, we drifted further. I wrote to him but he never wrote back and I found out from his father that Arthur kept my letters but he isn’t the लेखन type so I forgive him there. I tried to call but he never calls back, and… I gave up on him Camille. If it wasn’t for my father, I would have found someone else back in the university, trust me, I would have.”
“What stopped you?”
“Arthur,” Elena says and sits back on the bed.
“Your प्यार for him?”
“I wouldn’t say it’s love, Camille, not yet. I like him, yes, but… I don’t know anything else beyond that. I didn’t have the chance to find out because it’s been just my feelings not his. We have yet to find out his version in this drama,” Elena arches her brow.
“If Master Arthur has no such feelings for you, Elena, would आप be disappointed?” Camille asks as she drops the pile she holds on the बिस्तर and starts folding the dresses, one द्वारा one. Elena looks at her servant with a surprised face.
‘What an interesting question’ Elena thinks. She hasn’t thought about this before because, as far as her दिल is concerned, Arthur is hers. End of story.
“Elena?”
“Yes Camille, I will be. Not just disappointed, but hurt… here,” Elena points at her heart. “I’ll die without him, Camille.”
“But आप कहा yourself that you’re not sure if he likes आप the way आप do him?”
“I know, but my दिल isn’t giving me the chance to let him go, no! I can’t, Camille… I can’t imagine a life without him.”
“And what will do आप if he…”
“I will force him!” Elena says quickly. Camille gasps. The जवाब stuns Elena herself but this is what she’s been telling herself when she traveled back home.
“Sounds pretty harsh huh? I know, Camille, it’s wrong, yet I just can’t give him up, not yet. I have to have him… I won’t give him up for anyone.”
“Elena…”
“Camille, I am sorry but I can’t change my decision. I know it’s immoral to say या talk like this but I have a heart, Camille, and I don’t want to be hurt”
“I understand, but आप have to understand other’s feelings too”
“I know, but not now, Camille. I haven’t seen him for years and I don’t know what to expect या anticipate. I just… let me just meet him first and we can start from there.”
“Elena, dear… I am with आप on whatever decisions आप make. I don’t want आप to be hurt and I want आप to make the right decisions in your life. Listen to your heart, is all I will say.”
“Thanks, Camille, I will” Elena reaches out and hugs her servant.
“Now… आप were saying something about dresses?”
“Yes… आप have a plan?”
“Let’s go shopping, Elena, let’s get आप the best dress available,” Camille says with a wink.
“Splendid, Camille, come on let’s go” Elena says drag Camille out from the room.
Merlin helps Arthur with his vest and swipes the dust of his friend’s pants. Once done he stands back with his arms crossed across his chest and looks at Arthur, his brow arching, lips twitching.
“Merlin?” Arthur calls out.
“Yeah?”
“What are आप doing?” Arthur realises Merlin haven’t spoken a word after helping him with the vest.
“Looking at you… trying to see if I have done a good job या screwed it up,” Merlin says jokingly. Arthur smiles.
“Of course you’ve done a good job, like आप always do… now tell me, how do I look?”
“Like a prince,” Merlin जवाब and examines Arthur from चोटी, शीर्ष to toe. He nods to himself, agreeing he’s done a commendable job in getting his friend ready.
“Thank you, now will आप be kind enough to walk me to the living room?” Arthur asks.
“Sure, come on,” Merlin takes Arthur’s arm and leads him to the living room where Uther is waiting for them.
“Arthur, आप look dashing,” Uther says with a smile, looking at Merlin and then at his son.
“Thank you, Father… but credit should go where it’s due. Merlin did all this for me, so if आप are looking for someone to thank, then it’s Merlin.”
“You are absolutely right, Arthur. He looks great, Merlin” Uther says. Merlin smiles and releases Arthur’s hand from his.
“Thank you… I just did what any friend will do. So, have fun tonight Arthur,” Merlin tells his friend. Arthur smiles faintly and Merlin understands that smile. Arthur isn’t interested in meeting Elena but Uther has been very persuasive lately and to keep his father happy, Arthur agreed to meet her. Though physically Arthur is meeting Elena, mentally Arthur isn’t ready. Merlin feels bad for his friend but what can he do? This is a meeting between two very old families and who is Merlin to deny Arthur the visitation? या stop him from meeting Elena? Though Uther कहा Elena is here to meet Arthur, Merlin knows the real reason is something else, something more. Elena and Arthur have been pushed together since they were babies; a promise Uther made to his friend Godwyn after the death of Arthur’s mother. Since then Elena grew up with Arthur in her mind. Though Arthur fancied her in his childhood, it was merely on a friendship basis and as he grew up, his interest in her started to fade. And now after the arrival of Gwen in his life, he confessed to Merlin he has only one spot in his दिल and it’s already taken द्वारा Gwen. Elena will remain his friend but he cannot bring himself to offer her more. Merlin fakes a smile at Uther when the latter turns around to meet him and Merlin wonders why Uther is insisting Arthur to meet up with Elena so soon. Knowing Arthur, Merlin doesn’t think it was wise to push both Elena and Arthur into this relationship so fast. Uther should allow Arthur to recover, regain his लॉस्ट confidence and be prepared to meet the world before bringing आगे the meeting. Merlin didn’t care much for the meeting but he hopes Arthur will keep his anger in check. Bursting his चोटी, शीर्ष in the presence of Godwyn and Elena isn’t the wisest move, even for someone like Arthur.
“Are आप ready, Arthur?” Uther asks, breaking the silence.
“Yes, Father.”
“Then, let’s leave,” Uther says and leads Arthur to the door.
“Goodbye, Arthur, see आप later Mr. Uther,” Merlin says, standing where he did a while ago.
“Goodbye, Merlin,” Arthur says softly.
“Goodbye Merlin” Uther उत्तरों and opens the door. He helps Arthur out and closes the door behind them.
“Are they gone?” Gwaine steps out from the kitchen, licking his spoon. He is eating ice cream and walks right up to Merlin and stands beside him, the spoon still stuck in his mouth.
Merlin looks at Gwaine quickly and sighs. “Yeah, just left.”
“How was he?” Gwaine asks, digging his spoon into the ice cream in the tub and rakes his hair.
“Not happy. I noted that much.”
“As I expected… And how was the dictator?”
“He was thrilled… smiling from ear to an ear, I have never seen him happy like this before,” Merlin answers, still not looking at Gwaine.
“Why wouldn’t he be? This is what he wanted from the beginning, isn’t it?” Gwaine snaps angrily. “He plotted this well Merlin, he’s one clever…” Gwaine stops as Merlin turns his way. “Sorry bout’ that,” he adds and walks to the sofa.
“I understand your anger, Gwaine, but Arthur is his son and we are just his friends. What can we do? If Uther insists on this meeting, there is nothing आप या I can say. Besides, at the end of the दिन Arthur will consider his father above us. He has been listening to him a lot these past few days.”
“That’s crap, Merlin. Uther is one clever puppeteer and he’s been planning to get Arthur back since that accident because his son had been slipping away from his grips. He was losing Arthur to us and now he plans to reconcile with him with his feigned love. He’s been controlling Arthur before and what’s makes आप so sure he is thinking of Arthur’s best interests now?”
“What’s your point, Gwaine?”
“Merlin… don’t tell me आप believe this!” Gwaine points at the door and looks bewildered at Merlin. “That this meeting with Godwyn and all the visits Uther’s been making here are actually in Arthur’s best interest?”
“I don’t believe him, Gwaine.”
“Precisely! That’s what I’m asking you. I don’t believe this shit either. He is the sole reason why Arthur is blind today and after dumping his son to survive alone, now he comes back to reconcile? On what merits does he think he deserves forgiveness from Arthur? And how dare he try to get back in all our good books!!”
“Gwaine…” Merlin nears his friend.
“Don’t आप dare calm me down, Merlin! I went berserk the moment आप told me Arthur is reconciling with his father. What is Arthur thinking? That son of a…” Gwaine stops and sighs, “That man doesn’t deserve to be forgiven for everything he caused Arthur. If I was Arthur, I would rather be alone all my life than to have anyone like Uther as my father.”
“Gwaine, it’s not fair for Arthur here. Uther is his only family and what’s wrong in forgiving his own father? After all, Uther is trying to turn over a new leaf.”
“Come on Merlin, आप are not believing all that crap, are you?”
“I…”
“That tyrant spits venom in his talk and nothing he says या does can be trusted. Nothing!!” Gwaine spits again, in anger.
“I didn’t say I believe him but I’m just trying to think of this from Arthur’s point of view.”
“I’m not looking at this from anyone’s point. I don’t have to. I have known Uther quite enough to suspect this is just another ploy in his drama. I am suspicious of his graciousness towards Arthur, his behaviour towards us, the संपूर्ण, कुल मिलाकर attitude change… I am suspicious of him on the whole. आप and Arthur might be blind but not me. I will always be extra cautious with him. Know why he was grinning like an नितंब, गधा a while ago? Because this meeting has a significant meaning for him. He wants Elena to be married off to Arthur द्वारा any means and he’s been getting in Arthur’s good सूची to get his son agree to meeting Elena!”
“That I very much suspected, Gwaine.”
“He’s an asshole, Merlin. Pardon me for saying it out loud but that’s what he is.”
“We ought to wait and see what happens tonight and then we can decide how to tackle the subject, yeah. Just be patient please, Gwaine. I understand your anger, but this is our friend we are talking about, and for Arthur’s sake, let’s be patient and deal with this carefully.”
“For आप and Arthur…” Gwaine points at Merlin, digs into his ice cream and nods.
“Thanks,” Merlin says and sighs. Gwaine scoops a spoonful of ice cream into his mouth.
“Have आप spoken to her?” Gwaine asks, licking the back of the spoon. Merlin turns towards him, his face quizzed.
“Who?”
“Gwen of course, who else?” Gwaine tells Merlin.
“No, after she left the apartment, I haven’t spoken या met her anywhere. You?”
“Same here. I think we should talk with her,” Gwaine suggests.
“I feel the same, too, but Arthur made us promise not to reveal anything to her. How can we defy that?”
“Screw Arthur, Merlin!! I really don’t care what he made us promise. I think that poor girl deserves a proper explanation and if Arthur can’t do it, let us do it on his behalf. First and foremost, I’m pretty gutted द्वारा the way she was treated and second, she likes him. That is all that matters to me. And finally, Arthur likes her too. I want them to be reconciled द्वारा all means. I am willing to sacrifice anything to see that.”
“I do as well, Gwaine, but…”
“Merlin, I know you’re Arthur’s best friend, but sometimes, आप have to defy him. Go against his wishes and maybe पंच him in the face to make a statement या two. What I’m trying to say is, Arthur really likes Gwen and she likes him. They are match made in heaven and I feel it’s fated. But Arthur is अभिनय like an arse द्वारा turning his back on her because of a real lousy reason, his guilt. I’m sorry, but for me it doesn’t make any sense. And I want to correct it. The only way we can do that is persuade Gwen to accept him back in her life. She wouldn’t do that unless she knows the real story Arthur rejected her. And who to explain it to her if not us?”
“Everything sounds good, Gwaine, but…”
“Look, Merlin, if you’re hesitant on doing it, fine. Let me do it. If Arthur finds out, I will be responsible. What do आप say?”
“No, Gwaine. I feel responsible for the hurt Gwen endured and I want to rectify the situation as much आप do. I just feel guilty dishonoring the promise we made to Arthur.”
“I understand, Merlin, but I think Arthur belongs with Gwen. Not Elena. With all due respect, I have no problem with Elena but she doesn’t match Arthur at all. She does not understand him like Gwen does. For me Gwen is the ideal woman for Arthur.”
“Well, let’s get going, then. We shouldn’t be wasting any time,” Merlin says with a smile.
“Now आप are talking, mate!” Gwaine adds.
I'm just tired of people getting it INCREDIBLY WRONG. Yes, her mother is that fine assed woman, Halle Berry and her ex is one of the world's best paid super models. That part is irrelevant, their offspring on the other hand IS RELEVANT.
Why am I sharing this shot? Cause I am tired of shaking my head.
Morgana uses ancient magic to bend Merlin to her will, turning him into a deadly assassin on a mission to kill the king. But with Arthur oblivious to the danger, his only hope rests with someone else noticing his manservant's strange behaviour before he commits the evil deed. Colin Morgan, Bradley James and Katie McGrath star.(Angel's name is not listed here)
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Cast and crew
Cast
Gaius Richard Wilson Merlin Colin मॉर्गन Arthur Bradley James Agravaine Nathaniel Parker Morgana Katie McGrath Gwen एंजल Coulby George Leander Deeny Voice of the Dragon John Hurt Sir Elyan Adetomiwa Edun Sir Leon Rupert Young Sir Percival Tom Hopper Sir Gwaine Eoin Macken Audrey Zee Asha
Crew
DirectorAlex PillaiProducerJohnny CappsProducerJulian MurphyWriterLucy Watkins