Queen of Camelot ~~~ON HIATUS~~~

Chapter Fourteen (IV)

Bayard continues to talk unaware of the Pendragon's annoyance. "And may the differences from our past remain there. To your health, Uther."

Artura arose with everyone else at they all lifted their glasses into the air for a toast. "Arthur." Bayard cries pointing towards Artura.

She sent him a smile waving her glass at him. She began to bring the goblet to her lips but stopped when Bayard continued, "The Lady Morgana."

Artura didn't even try to take a sip this time knowing there was more to be said. She just wanted a drink and to enjoy the rest of the party. Morgana's nods towards Bayard, Artura could tell that Morgana felt the same about the party.

"The people of Camelot." Bayard finished loudly.

Once again Artura brought up the cup to her lips feeling positive that it was all over but her father grinned as he shouted. "And to fallen warriors on both sides."

With those final words everyone started to drink Artura could practically taste the drink before it touched her lips.

"Stop!" Someone shouted followed by Merlin running in fear planted on his face. "It's poisoned! Don't drink it!"

Merlin grabbed the goblet from Artura's hand and taking a few steps away so Artura couldn't take it back.

"What?" Uther cried glaring holes into Merlin.

Artura sighed wishing she didn't have such an idiotic manservant. "Merlin, what are you doing?" Sue growled.

Merlin hesitated for a second before replying, "Bayard laced Arthur's goblet with poison."

"This is an outrage!" Bayard bellowed clearly upset about said accusation.

Bayard men were quick to fly into action pulling out their swords. In response so did the knights of Camelot. Artura had her own sword drawn and glancing at Morgan's she realized she had a kitchen knife in hand gleefully ready to fight.

"Order your men to put down their swords." Uther commanded more of his guards rushing in. "You are outnumbered."

Bayard growled, "I will not allow this insult to go unchallenged!" This was an insult to him and his kingdom. It made sense, he would be happy.

Uther turned sharply towards Merlin towering over the young man. "On what grounds do you base this accusation?"

Merlin looked ready to faint in fear which wouldn't get them any answers so Artura jumped in telling her father she could handle Merlin. Artura skirted around the table grabbing Merlin's hand harshly. "Merlin, you idiot. Have we been at the sloe gin again?"

Merlin frowned shaking his head. Artura took the goblet back sending Merlin a look of utter disappointment.

"Unless you want to be strung up, you will tell me why you think why you think it's poisoned now." Uther demanded. He wanted this treaty more than anyone so if Artura's manservant was going to ruin it he was going to be beyond pissed.

Merlin shrunk back hiding slightly behind Artura in fear. "He was seen lacing it." Merlin said quietly.

"By whom?"

Merlin glanced over towards the door before gulping, "I can't say."

Bayard took a step forward. "I won't listen to this anymore."

Uther rounded the table extending his hand towards Artura. "Pass me the goblet." Artura knew better than to argue with the King and handed to goblet. "If you're telling the truth..."