Arthur's face was a study in pure disbelief. "Merlin? The stories must be detailed, indeed, to include my servant." But, at least, if the tales had Merlin as an old man, that would mean Arthur would be one, as well-- so, that was something.
He had to nod at Robin's advice. The idea of having his future foretold was too close to magic for his comfort, anyway. "Well, I have few choices in life, but that does not mean that things always play out as we expect." Actually, he had almost no choices in life, but who was counting?
"Excellent." Sizing up Robin's position and stance, Arthur moved into action. Robin parried and rejoined nicely, and Arthur nearly laughed. This was exactly what he had been needing, a match with a worthy opponent. The match went on for some time; whenever it seemed that one of them had gained the advantage, the other found a way to turn the tides, and they had both worked up a good sweat by the time Arthur finally managed to knock Robin's sword away.