sidhe_faerieTitle: The Future Is Now (Chapter 45)
Rating: PG
Pairing/s: Arthur/Gwen
Character/s: Merlin, Queen Elizabeth, Lord Weatherly
Summary: News comes from Parliament as Arthur feels the weight of his claim for Britain
Warnings: none
Word Count: 515
Prompt: 360 Village
Author's Notes:
Chapter 45
Arthur pulled Gwen aside when they returned to Buckingham palace. He had a concerned look on his face that worried her.
“What is it Arthur? Are you having second thoughts?” Gwen asked.
“No, but I feel out of my depth here. How am I going to run a country when I've never even ran a village. My father has been doing it for years but he never showed any interest in teaching me anything.”
“Your father is just doing what his father did before him. You'll find your feet.” Gwen rubbed his arm. “If Parliament objects to this, you won't have to worry.”
“Queen Elizabeth seems confident that they will allow it.” Arthur glanced over to the others. “I think she's looking forward to Scotland.”
Gwen laughed. “I know. She's very enthusiastic about it all. Don't worry. It will all work out in the end. You have all of us to help you.”
“I know. I'm glad you are on my side.” Arthur kissed her cheek. He whispered in her ear. “Think of all the naughty things we can do in all these rooms.”
“Arthur!” Gwen blushed.
Suddenly, Lord Weatherly burst through the door. “My apologies but I was instructed to come as soon as possible. Lord Cardiff, the Parliament wishes to speak to you and have you present your evidence for your claim. After we receive a copy of the translation of the Royal Orders, we will debate the matter.”
“I don't understand. You saw his proof. You know that he has a legitimate claim to the crown. Why is there a need for debate?” Queen Elizabeth looked at the breathless lord with annoyance. “He is the true king.”
“This isn't the fifth century. The Royal Orders were written for another time. We must do what is best for Britain in this time.” Lord Weatherly countered.
“You just don't want to relinquish your power.” The Queen stared him down. “It's time some of you stepped aside and let someone with a fresh perspective take control.”
“My claim is legitimate and I will do whatever Parliament feels is necessary to prove that.” Arthur stepped forward. “When the truth is proven, will you all back down willingly or will there be heads on spikes at the Tower. You know, like the fifth century.”
Lord Weatherly swallowed hard. “This isn't some feudal village that we are talking about. This is Britain.”
“I am aware.” Arthur glared at him. “Merlin, how soon can you be ready?”
"I need an hour.” Merlin answered without looking up from the scroll.
“We want someone else to look at that.” Lord Weatherly pointed to the scroll. “Who else knows the language that its written in?”
“Just his father, Balinore Emrys.” Arthur told him. “It's passed down through his family. Merlin of Camelot wanted it kept it secret.”
“So we only have his word as to what it says?” Lord Weatherly rolled his eyes. “How fortunate for you.”
“Enough!” Queen Elizabeth shouted. “Go back Parliament and get this settled.”
Lord Weatherly bowed. “Yes Your Majesty.” He turned and left the way he came.