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Chapter Text

Arthur was having recurring nightmares. 

In his nightmares, Morgana had wild eyes, unkempt hair and a murderous personality. He watched as she plotted to murder him, his father, Gwen, and even Merlin. He saw a dragon destroy half of Camelot and he looked on, helpless, as armies of undying soldiers descended upon Camelot. The dreams always ended the same way. After watching his father die and his knights die, Arthur would be stabbed by a brown-haired young man. Merlin would cradle Arthur’s body in his arms and weep. 

However, this nightmare was different from the rest. While watching the terrible battles unfolding across the dreamscape of his mind, an old man with a long white beard popped up and flickered, before solidifying.

“These dreams will soon be true, Arthur,” the old man gestured at the clashing bodies surrounding them. “These dreams will soon be true if you don’t find your destiny and open your heart.” 

Arthur turned to the man. “What destiny? Open my heart to what?” 

The old man sighed. “You will find that you are only one side of a coin. You will meet the one who makes yourself whole, if you are able to not only use your strength, but also your compassion.” 

“I will be on the side of a coin when I am king,” said Arthur. “What does that have to do with anything?” 

“No, it is a metaphor, you ass. The metaphor is that you are but one side of a coin.” The old man sighed and then muttered under his breath, “Though, I’m afraid you are the duller side. The other side is much much brighter.” 

“You dare to insult me, old man?” threatened Arthur. 

The old man rolled his eyes and said, “Just don’t be such a prat about --” and the dream ended suddenly.

Arthur sat up panting in his bed. It was still dark and the castle was quiet. There was no sign of any sort of old sorcerers or any sign of evil Morgana. His father was still alive. Arthur took a deep breath and laid back in bed. He resolved to Gaius for a sleeping draught because this was simply unacceptable. Perhaps he had been eating bad bread. He should ask if anyone else had been having nightmares. 

Arthur was just falling asleep when Merlin opened the curtains with a cheery, “Rise and shine, sire!” 

Arthur groaned and put his head under his pillow. 

“Oh, come on Arthur,” said Merlin in an inordinately cheerful voice. “You’ve got a princess to see and it is a beautiful day today!” 

The pillow was ripped away from Arthur’s head. Arthur squinted blearily at Merlin. “What’s got you so cheerful this morning? I should outlaw that. Cheerfulness in the morning. I’ll send you to the stocks.” 

Merlin didn’t respond, but just stood there staring at Arthur with his mouth slightly open.

“What’s the matter with you?” asked Arthur squinting at Merlin in the brightness of the morning.

‘“What’s the matter with you?” Merlin asked back. “You look awful!” 

“Shut up, Merlin.” Arthur closed his eyes again and flopped an arm over his eyes. “Help me get dressed.”

“No, you really do!” said Merlin. “You look absolutely terrible. I should go get Gaius.” Arthur cracked open an eye and carefully inspected Merlin’s face for any evidence of a joke. He found none; Merlin looked genuinely concerned.

“What’s wrong with me?” asked Arthur, patting his face with concern. “Merlin. Answer me.” 

“You don’t look well.” Merlin wrinkled his brow and pouted his lips with concern. “Did you get any sleep last night? Or the night before?” 

“Yes!” said Arthur. “I slept. I just had a strange dream last night.”

Merlin gave Arthur a skeptical look. “I’m going to get Gaius. He’ll know what’s wrong with you.” Merlin swiftly turned and made to leave the room. 

“Merlin!” cried Arthur. “Come back here. Did you even bring me breakfast?” He waited hopefully for an answer, but Merlin had already exited. 

Arthur groaned. He really didn’t feel that good at all. His father was entertaining Princess Olwen who was a potential political match for Arthur. Princess Olwen’s father was a rather brutal king who had caused much trouble for Camelot. It was important that Arthur made a good impression. 

Arthur was finding Princess Olwen rather difficult to court. While she was soft, sweet, and demure, she was rather too shy, acting almost as if she were scared of Arthur. When she did speak, she did so softly and hesitantly, as if she were afraid of speaking out of turn. 

Arthur rolled over so he was sitting on the side of his bed and reached for a silver tray that Merlin had left behind (being the useless servant that he was). Arthur looked at his reflection in the tray and grimaced. He had dark crescent shadows underneath his eyes and his hair looked like a birds nest. He tried to flatten his hair down on his head, but his hair merely spring back to it’s unruly position. He sighed. He didn’t want Princess Olwen to be any more scared of him than she already was. 

The door burst open and Merlin rushed in closely followed by Gaius. “See how horrible he looks, Gaius?” Merlin was practically dancing with nervous energy. “I told you it was an emergency.” 

“Shut up, Merlin,” Arthur said. “I don’t look that bad.”

Gaius frowned at Arthur. “Have you been having problems sleeping, sire?” 

“I’ve been able to fall asleep,” explained Arthur. “But I have been having rather terrible dreams of late.” 

Gaius’s frown deepened. “What is the content of these dreams?” 

In the daylight, Arthur felt a little embarrassed about his dreams. “Just some terrible scenarios. Magic entering Camelot.” Merlin winced in sympathy. 

“I can prescribe you some sleeping draughts,” said Gaius. “I’ve been giving some to Morgana and they have been working quite well.” 

“Thank you, Gaius,” said Arthur. 

“In the meantime, I can give you a brew called buna that is known to give extra energy. The brew is made from the seeds of a very exotic plant.” Gaius pulled out a flask with dark brown liquid in it. 

Arthur opened the flask. The flask had a pleasing roasted earthy smell to it. Arthur took a cautious sip.

“Bleagh,” Arthur nearly spat out the brew. “It’s so bitter.”

“Apologies, sire,” said Gauis. He waved his hand in the air to indicate Arthur was to drink the rest of the brew. 

Arthur screwed up his face and downed the whole bottle. The brew left an unpleasant taste on his tongue, but Arthur did notice that he seemed more alert throughout the day. 

Instead of his usual morning practice with the knights, he took Princess Olwen on a picnic in the forest. She sat politely on the blanket, shyly surrounded by curtains of red hair, and watched Arthur with rather blank brown eyes as he attempted to regale her with stories of the court of Camelot. He silently thanked Gaius for the energy given by the brew, when a more energetic story managed to get her to smile.

After, Gaius’s brew helped Arthur get through several long and rather boring meetings with his father’s advisor about a new and improved way of counting wheat. Arthur even made it through the nightly feast without falling asleep, but by the end of the feast, he was ready to sleep. 

Merlin helped Arthur undress and gave Arthur the sleeping draught from Gaius. Arthur fell asleep the instant his head hit his pillow. 

That night there were no terrifying dreams, just the faint impression of the old man with the long white beard muttering about magic sleeping potions. 

When Arthur awoke the next day, he felt refreshed like he hadn’t felt in days. Arthur got out of bed and opened the curtains. It was morning, well past the time he was supposed to be up. Arthur’s stomach rumbled. He saw that Merlin had yet to bring breakfast.

“MERLIN!” Arthur bellowed. Where was he? 

I forgot how much of a prat you were when you were younger , said a voice. 

“Hello?” Arthur called cautiously. “Who is it?” Arthur drew his sword from the side of his bed, but accidentally hit the hangings on the bed and face planted on the bed.

Someone sniggered loudly. 

Arthur propelled himself up from the bed and brandished his sword wildy. 

“Who is there?” Arthur yelled. “I command you to reveal yourself.” 

Don’t be an idiot, Arthur , said the voice. No one is there. It’s just me .

“Where are you? Show yourself, you coward.” Arthur moved around the room, looking for the source of the voice. No matter where he went, it appeared as though the voice was coming from right behind him.

I can’t show myself , said the voice. I’m trapped in your head. Luckily, there’s lots of space in here as there really isn’t much here .

“No,” said Arthur. “You’re playing tricks on me. This must be magic.”

It is magic, you doofus , the voice said. You’ve seen me before. I’m the sorcerer from your dream . 

Arthur remembered the old man with the long white beard that haunted his dream last night. “Why are you here?” asked Arthur. “Go away.” 

I wish I could, Arthur , said the voice. But without me, you’ll die . 

“I refuse to believe that,” said Arthur. “You are clearly trying to influence me. I will tell my father and you will be persecuted for this act of treason.”

Arthur, I know that you lack substance in your head, but you can’t be that stupid. Your plan is to go to your father and tell him that you are hearing voices of a sorcerer in your head? The only way he can get me out of your head is to cut your head off. 

“So is that your plan?” asked Arthur. “To get me killed?”

NO , the voice sighed. Weren’t you listening at all, turnip head? I’m trying to keep you alive. If you fulfill your destiny to become one of the greatest kings that ever lived, I promise you I will be able to depart and leave you in peac e. I can only live if you live, so I gain nothing by your death.

“May I at least know the name of the annoying voice in my head if I am to be stuck with it until I become king?” asked Arthur. 

I have many names , said the voice. You will eventually come to know me by those names. But for now, you can call me Myrddin .

“Alright,” said Arthur. “If you want to keep me alive, will you do me the courtesy of shutting up? As you said, if I reveal that there is a sorcerer's  voice in my head, this may end badly for me.”

Of course, sire. Anything you ask for, said Myrddin in an annoyingly smarmy voice.

Arthur strongly felt that he was being made fun of, but was suddenly too tired to deal with it. He sat down on the bed and put his head in his hands. It seemed like he had moved out of the frying pan right into the fire. He preferred nightmares over the annoying voice in his head.

The door crashed open and Merlin came running in, a plate of food balanced precariously in his hands.

“Rise and shine!” Merlin beamed at him and put his breakfast tray down on the table. “How are you feeling today, Arthur?”

“If you came when you were supposed to, I would be having a wonderful day!” growled Arthur grabbing a piece of bread.

“Someone’s hungry,” teased Merlin. Arthur threw a piece of bread at his head. 

“Where were you, Merlin? What took you so long?” 

Merlin shifted uncomfortably. “Gaius wanted me to help him make a potion,” Merlin wouldn’t meet his eyes. 

“You are a terrible liar, Merlin,” chidded Arthur. “I bet you were at the tavern again.” 

“All right, you caught me,” sighed Merlin. “I was definitely at the tavern at the break of dawn drinking barrels of ale.”

Inside Arthur’s head, Myrddin sniggered. Arthur ignored him. “You have a problem, Merlin,” said Arthur as he took a big bite of bread. “Maybe Gaius can help. Have you asked him about it?” 

“Speaking of your problem,” Merlin dodged the question. “Did the sleeping draught help?” 

“Yes, it did. Thank Gaius for me, will you?”

“Will do,” said Merlin. “Gaius also sent me another of the buna brew.” Merlin pulled out a glass bottle and put it in front of Arthur.

Arthur took a small sip and made a face. “Ugh, that tastes disgusting.”

“Drink up,” smirked Merlin. His eyes twinkled as he watched Arthur gulp down the bitter brew. 

Arthur pointed at Merlin. “You were late today. For that, you’ll have to go muck out my stables, clean my armor, shine my boots, and fix the hole in my red tunic.” 

Merlin pouted a bit, but then bounded out of the room with more energy than Arthur had seen before. 

“What’s up with him?” asked Arthur. 

He’s been sampling your espresso shot , said Myrddin. He likes the taste .

“What?” Arthur wrinkled his nose in confusion. Then he shook his head. “No, don’t answer that. That was a hypothetical question.” 

As you wish, sire , came the smarmy voice again.

“Of all the sorcerer’s I could have been stuck with, I had to be stuck with such an annoying ass!” Arthur complained heatidly. 

The feeling is mutual, prat . Despite all the name calling, Arthur didn’t get the feeling that Myrddin was annoyed. Strangely, he felt that Myrddin was rather enjoying himself. 

Myrddin mercifully stayed silent all day, though Arthur thought he might have heard a snigger when Arthur somehow managed to bash himself on the head with his shield after insulting Merlin. 

However, that night at the banquet with Princess Olwen, Myrddin started muttering in Arthur’s head causing Arthur to slop some of his wine onto himself. 

“Will you shut up, Myrddin?” Arthur whispered furiously into his hand.

Arthur felt a touch on his shoulder and looked into Merlin’s laughing eyes. “More wine, sire?” asked Merlin. 

Arthur nodded and the anger at Myrddin loosened as he watched Merlin pour wine, that ridiculous neckerchief around his neck. When Arthur first met Merlin, Arthur thought he was a funny looking thing with ears big enough to fly with and scrawny little limbs. Now, Arthur found himself admiring the sharpness of Merlin’s cheekbones, the pretty blue of his eyes, the slight curve of his lips as he smiled, and the--

“Prince Arthur?” murmured Princess Olwen in a quiet little voice. Arthur tore his eyes away from Merlin and turned back to her. 

“Sorry, Princess,” Arthur apologized. “I’m afraid I haven’t been getting enough sleep. I believe you were talking about the sweet plums?” 

Princess Olwen’s reply was drowned out by Myrddin letting loose a long amused hmmmm . 

When Princess Olwen had been distracted by an offer of a new glass of wine by Gewn, Arthur muttered, “Shut up!”

I haven’t said anything , replied Myrddin. I'll just be in your head, making no noise and pretending I'm not here. 

“Good,” said Arthur savagely.

“What was that?” asked Princess Olwen meekly. 

“Er, the food is good, I said,” responded Arthur. He smiled at Princess Olwen soothingly. “Delicious.”

“Oh yes, it is indeed,” Princess Olwen nodded her head enthusiastically. “Everything is cooked to perfection.” She blushed and looked down at her lap. 

“I am pleased you are enjoying your stay at Camelot,” said Arthur. He wished the the princess would stop behaving like a startled deer in his presence. 

“It is much to my liking,” Princess Olwen gave Arthur a small sweet smile. 

“Excellent,” replied Arthur. “Excellent...” He trailed off and cleared his throat, searching for something else to say. 

Arthur was spared from future conversation, when the doors to the hall opened and a large man stepped inside. He moved stiffly and carefully, as though he weren’t used to walking on his legs. His red robes billowed around him and a heavy golden crown encircled his wispy red hair. 

“Ah, King Custennin,” King Uther rose to welcome him. “We didn’t expect you for another week.” 

Uh oh , Myrddin muttered. This is different . 

“My plans changed,” grinned King Custennin. The smile didn’t quite reach his eyes and Arthur couldn’t help but to shiver. 

King Uther called for servants to bring up a chair, and King Custennin joined them at the table. The rest of the meal passed uneventfully except the more King Custennin talked, the more uneasy Arthur felt. 

When Arthur finally made it back to his room, he took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He wasn’t sure why he reacted so strongly to King Custennin, but something about him put Arthur on edge. Arthur thought it may be the king’s smile, which seemed forced, or the king’s cold glittering eyes taking in Camelot with a hungry look.

You mustn’t trust King Custennin , warned Myrddin. There is something different about him, something wrong. He reeks of blood magic .

“I noticed it too,” said Arthur, remembering the unease filling his body and he shuddered.

I doubt it , said Myrddin. You’re about as magical as a pile of turds . 

“Excuse me!” cried Arthur. “Let me remind you who you are talking to.” 

Alas it is true, my princely turd , Myrddin sniggered. Then in a more serious tone, he continued. You must be feeling residual magic from me. Hmmm.

“I don’t want any magic!” cried Arthur. “How do I know that the feeling of unease doesn’t come from you?” 

Magic won’t tarnish you, even if you did possess any sort of magical ability (which you don’t), Myrddin replied.  Magic is a bit like a knife. It depends upon how you use it . 

“Magic has only brought terror and chaos to Camelot,” said Arthur. “My kingdom has seen it’s effects. I have seen it’s effects firsthand. Even my servant was nearly killed by magic.” 

Myrddin chuckled a little before he replied. Arthur, if you only saw knife wielding maniacs, you would think that knives bring terror and chaos. But it’s not the knife's fault; knives are handled and controlled by people. Knives can also do much good, like help with cooking, protection, or entertainment. 

“No,” said Arthur. “Magic corrupts people. Magic makes them evil.” 

What do you know about magic, Arthur? You are speaking to a sorcerer . 

“Every instance of magic I have encountered has been evil,” said Arthur. 

Every instance of magic that you have seen , replied Myrddin. Some prefer to keep their talents hidden. 

“You are full of lies and poison,” sneered Arthur. 

“Are you really that upset about me being late, Arthur?” said Merlin. Arthur jumped and saw Merlin leaning by the door with a fake earnest face. “I was really helping Gaius, you know. You can ask him yourself.” 

“No, I was just…” Arthur waved his hand in the air and paused to think. “I was just going over a speech.” 

“A speech?’ asked Merlin, an amused smile blossoming on his face. “Who is this speech for? I would love to hear it.” Merlin’s blue eyes crinkled at the corners and Arthur felt his heart pound strangely. 

“It is not for your ears, Merlin,” chidded Arthur. 

“Mainly because what you said is a whole load of codswallop,” Merlin said cheekily while helping Arthur get undressed. 

“What did you say, Merlin?” Arthur asked threateningly, but the effect was rather ruined as his head was stuck in his tunic. 

“Don’t worry your big head about it,” responded Merlin, rescuing Arthur from his tunic. 

Arthur was going to have a witty response, but being free of his tunic he was suddenly inundated by Merlin’s stunning blue eyes, wonderful pink mouth, deliciously sharp cheekbones-- 

Merlin’s mouth quirked. “Alright, Arthur?” 

“Yes,” said Arthur. “I was just overwhelmed by your smell. Did you just come from mucking out the stables?”

( Liar , coughed Myrddin.)

Merlin just laughed and tackled Arthur. “Are you sure it isn’t your breath? I am sometimes stunned by it as well.”

“Get off me, you crazy git!” shouted Arthur. “What’s the matter with you, Merlin?” Arthur easily managed to pin Merlin to the ground, holding Merlin’s wrists above his head with one hand. 

“Dunno,” said Merlin. “Just happy, I guess.” Merlin smiled at Arthur. Merlin’s cheeks were turning a pretty pink.

“I’ll never understand what’s going on in that strange head of yours, Merlin,” said Arthur. He was quite close to Merlin’s face. He could count everyone of Merlin’s eyelashes if he wished. 

“That’s alright, Arthur,” said Merlin. “Wouldn’t want to overwhelm you with more than you can handle.” 

Merlin gazed up at Arthur, eyes widened in a faux innocent manner. Merlin’s breath was warm and despite what Arthur said before, Merlin smelled really good. Arthur felt as though he could not take enough breath. If Merlin was a girl and not a boy servant, Arthur would prefer Merlin to any of the princesses he had seen. Arthur really wanted to lean down, press his lips to Merlin’s and--

“Did you gain some weight recently, Arthur?” asked Merlin. “You are rather heavy.” 

Arthur groaned and smacked Merlin’s arm. “Get up, you idiot. I’ll see you tomorrow in the morning. You better not be late.” 

“Of course, Arthur,” Merlin said earnestly. “Good night. I left your sleeping draught next to your bed.” 

“Night, Merlin,” said Arthur. He downed the sleeping potion and settled in his bed. 

For some reason, all that was coming to mind was Merlin’s face beneath him as he was pinned to the floor by Arthur. As Arthur slipped into sleep, he dreamed of dark curly hair and laughing blue eyes just out of reach.  

***

Arthur woke up to Merlin enthusiastically yelling, “Good morning, Arthur! Up you get.” 

“Merlin,” Arthur groaned. “My day was going so well until you were in it.” 

Merlin threw the blankets back from the bed and peered down at Arthur. “You must have missed me a lot yesterday.” 

Arthur stretched and yawned. When he turned back to Merlin, he could have sworn that Merlin was staring at his chest. 

“What are you looking at?” asked Arthur. 

“I’m checking to see if we need to change your diet,” Merlin smiled. “We want you to be the fittest of all the knights!” He gave Arthur’s stomach a little pat and Arthur glared at him.

“I am the fittest of all the knights!” cried Arthur. “I can beat every one of them.” 

Merlin gave Arthur a questioning look. “Whatever you say, Arthur.” Arthur tossed an apple at Merlin’s head. 

Merlin caught it. “Thanks, Arthur!” He took a big bite out of the apple and grinned.

Arthur threw himself back on the bed. “Why do I have the most annoying and incompetent servant in all of Camalot?” 

“If you don’t like me, we can always go back to George,” said Merlin. “Otherwise, get up so you can get dressed.”

“Please no George,” groaned Arthur. “The last time he was here, I told him to talk to me and he started a conversation about polishing pewter.” Arthur got out of bed and Merlin helped him dress. He scarfed down his breakfast and went downstairs to train with the knights. 

The princess was in attendance to watch him train, so he first stopped by to say hello. She was sitting on a blanket, covered with an umbrella and popping grapes into her mouth. Her posture had changed since Arthur had last seen her; she was sitting up straighter than Arthur had seen before. Her hair wasn’t covering her face, but was pulled back in a tight bun.

“Are you doing well, Princess Olwen?” Arthur bowed to Princess Olwen and took her hand to kiss.

“I’m doing quite fine, thank you. I’ve got a big strong prince to protect me.” Princess Olwen ran her hand down Arthur’s arm, batted her eyelashes, and bit her lip. 

Arthur almost stepped back in shock. Princess Olwen had certainly gotten more forward since she first arrived. Two days ago, she was too shy to even make eye contact. Now, Arthur could very clearly see her brown eyes unobscured by her red hair. Arthur was surprised to notice that the brown of her eyes appeared to be muted, as though they were cloudy with a white film.

“I’m glad you are feeling comfortable, princess,” Arthur said, feeling a bit uncomfortable himself. 

“Got your stuff, sire,” Merlin clambered over to Arthur, nearly dragging his sword through the mud. 

“Merlin!” cried Arthur. His heart skipped a beat when he saw Merlin; he was so relieved to be rescued from the princess. “It’s about time you arrived.” 

“You were the one who wanted me to do all those chores yesterday,” Merlin replied. “I was up late polishing your armor! I didn’t get a chance to put things back properly” 

“That’s no excuse, Merlin,” said Arthur. He turned to Princess Olwen. “Forgive me, I must leave you to go to practice.” 

She offered her hand to be kissed again, but as Arthur took her hand to kiss it, she gave him a kiss on the cheek instead. “Good luck, my handsome prince. My heart throbs loathsomely at our parting.” 

“Er, yes,” said Arthur whilst awkwardly nodding. “Mine as well, princess.” He eagerly followed Merlin away from the princess. 

“Would you like me to help with your armor, my handsome prince?” teased Merlin, batting his eyelashes. 

Arthur meant to laugh, but was taken aback by the beautiful blue of Merlin’s eyes. 

Merlin sniffed in fake indignation. “Well, if you don’t want my help, you can just do it yourself.” 

“Merlin,” said Arthur. 

“What?” 

“You’re an idiot. Have I mentioned that before?.” 

“Thank you, sire.” 

Arthur rolled his eyes and Merlin ducked his head and smiled. 

Once Merlin had finished helping Arthur with his armor, Merlin paused, his head tilted in thought. “Princess Olwen came on a bit stronger than before, do you think?”

“A bit stronger,” said Arthur. “She seems like an entirely different person.”

“Hmm,” Merlin pursued his lips and Arthur couldn’t help but to look at them. “She did get bolder after her father came, didn’t she?” 

“Yes, that’s true,” agreed Arthur. “Maybe she was just shy before.” 

“Maybe,” said Merlin. He put his hand on Arthur’s shoulder. “Be careful, okay?” Merlin’s worried blue eyes framed by black eyelashes blinked into his face. 

Arthur’s mouth somehow felt a little dry and he swallowed. “Aren’t I always careful? It’s you I need to worry about.” 

Haha , snorted Myrddin. Arthur ignored him. 

Arthur worked his knights hard. It was important to show to the princess the might and power of the Camelot knights; it was even more essential to prove his strength as the future leader of Camelot. Uther and Arthur both knew that the princess reported directly back to the king, who would be making a decision about who the princess would marry. Arthur remembered Merlin’s comments about his weight this morning. Instead, Arthur imagined Merlin calling him fit and strong, which filled his stomach with all sorts of wonderful bubbly feelings. He used this feeling to put extra force into his sparing with the other knights. 

He must have been hitting harder than usual because after practice, Sir Kay slapped Arthur on the shoulder. “That was a hard practice. Showing off for the little lady out there?” Sir Kay winked. 

“Just making sure you all don’t get lazy,” replied Arthur. For some reason, the image of piercing blue eyes and a cheeky smile kept flashing in his head. 

“Alright, sire,” Sir Kay smiled. “Whatever you say.” He gave Arthur’s shoulder another friendly shove before walking away to talk to Leon. 

Merlin came bounding up with that stupid little grin of his just as Arthur reached his chamber door. “Well, you certainly got muddy out there.” 

“Don’t talk and help me get this off,” snapped Arthur. “My head hurts.” He entered his chamber and put down his helmet. 

“Well, you did get some blows to the head,” teased Merlin. “I’d be worried if I didn’t know how hard your head is.” Merlin laughed and blinked beautiful blue eyes up at Arthur. Arthur frowned. 

“I bested every single knight,” said Arthur. “In record time, I may add.” 

“Right,” said Merlin, sounding unconvinced. He started to take off Arthur’s armor. 

“You saw me,” argued Arthur. “I won every match.” 

“Well, of course they let you win,” exclaimed Merlin. “You’re the prince!” 

“They didn’t let me win,” protested Arthur. “You’ve seen me in battle before fighting people who didn’t know I was the prince.” 

“Yes,” said Merlin. “I didn’t say you couldn’t win some of the time.” 

Arthur sighed. Merlin was infuriating. “I am the fittest knight, not because I am the prince, but because I train the hardest.” 

Merlin peered up at him while undoing a buckle. “Is this about our conversation this morning? About you being fit?” 

“No,” said Arthur. 

“It is, isn’t it. You were offended.” 

“I was not.” Arthur folded his arms stubbornly.

“Well, you certainly did do a lot of work pushing all those knights into the mud.” 

“Merlin.” 

“Yes, Arthur?”

“Go get me a bath. Now.” 

“Of course, Arthur.” 

Once Merlin had finished lugging all of the water for the bath up the stairs to Arthur’s room and Arthur had sunk into the warm water, Arthur felt a lot better. He opened his eyes to see Merlin staring at him with a strange expression. 

“What is it, Merlin?” 

“You’ve got a bit of mud,” murmured Merlin. He motioned to the right side of his face. Arthur scrubbed his face and looked back at Merlin.

Merlin shook his head. “No, you’ve missed it entirely. Here.” Merlin leaned over and gently used his thumb to wipe something off of Arthur’s face. Merlin’s hands were cool and smooth against the heat of the bath. 

“Thank you,” breathed Arthur. Merlin’s face was still entirely too close to Arthur’s body. 

“You know, you may not be the fittest knight,” said Merlin. Arthur opened his mouth to protest, but Merlin placed a cool finger on Arthur’s lips and Arthur instantly became silent. “But you are the best knight. It’s clear in the strength and agility with which you move. The best part is your triumph. You do not goad or boast after your opponents defeat. You take my breath away.” Merlin only breathed the last sentence, so Arthur couldn’t be sure if he heard it right. 

Before Arthur could ask what Merlin said, Merlin sprang up and gave Arthur a hearty nudge on the head. “Now don’t let that get to your head, cabbage brain.” 

As Merlin scampered out of the room, Arthur could have sworn that Merlin’s face was bright red. 

“How strange,” remarked Arthur. “I don’t know what goes on in that weird head of his.” 

Hmmm , replied Myrddin. I don’t think there was anything on your face to begin with .

“What does that mean?” asked Arthur. 

Figure it out yourself , Myrddin responded and went silent no matter how many questions Arthur asked. 

***

Dinner was quite a production as King Uther pulled out all of the stops to impress King Custennin. 

Arthur spent the beginning of half of it trying to escape the wandering touches of Princess Olwen as she chatted about something that Arthur had long given up on trying to follow. Arthur couldn’t understand why Princess Olwen had a sudden shift in personality, but he found himself longing for the shy, meek princess to return.

About halfway through the dinner, King Custennin summoned servants to bring a decorated box onto the table. 

“I have a treat to you all, for being such spectacular hosts,” said King Custennin grinning at Uther and Arthur. 

“We are pleased to have you,” responded Uther. 

King Custennin opened the box and revealed a small cake. “This is a special confectionary that is considered a treat in our lands. We hope to share it with you to exchange customs. Unfortunately, as the supplies are expensive, we only have enough for the King and Prince Arthur, and not for the entire court to share.”

Don’t eat that cake, Arthur , Myrddin warned urgently. It’s poisoned.

“I have to eat the cake,” Arthur muttered. “It’d be rude not to.” 

Pretend to eat the cake , said Myrddin. And try to tell your father as well . 

“I can’t tell my father that the sorcerer in my head told him not to eat the cake,” whispered Arthur. 

You can think of something , said Myrddin. If not, your father may die . 

“I don’t believe you,” murmured Arthur. “I think you want to disrupt the peace treaty with King Custennin.” 

You can think whatever you want , said Myrddin. Just don’t eat the cake . Pretend to take bites and drop it on the floor when no one is looking. 

“That plan is ridiculous,” said Arthur. He must have spoken too loudly because Princess Olwen leaned in close. 

“What did you say, my dearest prince?” asked Princess Olwen. She fluttered her eyelashes aggressively at him. 

“Er...That cake looks ridiculously delicious,” smiled Arthur. Princess Olwen smiled back and ran her hand down Arthur’s arm. Arthur tried to subtly scoot his chair a little further away from the princess. 

Get your servant to help , said Myrddin. 

“Merlin?” whispered Arthur. 

He is much more than you give him credit for. He would be willing to help. Remember when he drank that poisoned chalice?  

“I’m not making him eat the cake,” muttered Arthur. 

No, you idiot , Myrddin sighed. Just signal him for more wine and when he comes by slip the cake to him . 

“What if he eats it?” asked Arthur. 

He’s much more intelligent than you , replied Myrddin dryly. He won’t eat the cake . Arthur scoffed. Myrddin didn’t know Merlin.

King Custennin had finished cutting up the cake and was now distributing it around the table. 

Arthur cut up his cake and pretended to eat. “This is delicious, Princess Olwen.” He looked around for Merlin, but to his surprise found Merlin already next to him blocking Princess Olwen’s view. 

“More wine, sire?” asked Merlin. 

“Certainly,” said Arthur. He tried to give Merlin a significant look, but Merlin just looked confused. 

“Are you alright, Arthur?” Merlin whispered into his ear. 

“I’m fine, Merlin,” said Arthur and gave Merlin a significant eyebrow wiggle. 

Merlin looked even more confused and shrugged. “Let me know if you need more wine, sire.” 

Merlin walked away and Arthur glared in Merlin’s direction. The idiot didn’t get it!

Look at your plate, Arthur , came Myrddin’s voice and Arthur noticed that half of his cake was gone. 

“You really like the cake!” explained Princess Olwen. 

“How could I not?” smiled Arthur. “It was delicious!” 

Princess Olwen gave a simpering giggle and smiled. Arthur nodded at her and gulped down the wine in his cup. 

“Merlin!” called Arthur. 

“Yes, sire?” asked Merlin, moving in between Arthur and Princess Olwen once more. 

“I would like some more wine, Merlin.” 

“You know, you shouldn’t drink so much wine, sire,” scolded Merlin.

“It goes deliciously with the cake,” said Arthur wiggling his eyebrows at Merlin. 

“Yes, but I’m afraid you have eaten all your cake, sire,” said Merlin looking at the plate. 

“Ah?” asked Arthur. “So I have.” He grinned at Merlin. 

Told you it would work , Myrddin’s smug voice rang in his mind. 

“Good, sire,” said Merlin and moved away. 

“You shouldn’t let him talk to you like that,” said Princess Olwen. 

“Who? Merlin?” asked Arthur. 

“He’s rather insubordinate, is he not?” 

“I’ll punish him tomorrow,” said Arthur privately thinking that he’d do nothing of the sort. 

“Of course,” said Princess Olwen. She was about to lean in to say something else, when there was a commotion at the head of the table. 

King Custennin had started to grow. Soon his weight became too much for the chair and the chair splintered beneath him. The King stood up with a roar.

Princess Olwen fainted besides Arthur. Arthur leaned over to revive her, but when he touched her, her eyes opened wide. 

“Prince Arthur, I’m so sorry,” Princess Olwen apologized quickly, her dark brown eyes wide and clear of the cloudy film Arthur had puzzled at earlier. Princess Olwen gestured at the head of the table. “That’s not my father--- it is the giant, Ysbaddaden! He wants to take over my father’s kingdom.” 

“Guards!” called Arthur and he looked desperately around for a sword. 

Ysbaddaden roared and swiped at the table, sending men flying. He took a step and the hall shook with his weight. 

“You shall pay, you insolent girl,” Ysbaddaden bellowed, moving towards Princess Olwen. 

“I have promised myself to Prince Culhwch and I’d die before I break that promise,” Princess Olwen yelled, holding herself completely different from the princess Arthur had seen previously in Camelot. Princess Olwen stood proud and tall; her face was not meekly nor seductive, but was strong and bold. When the giant roared at her, she stood her ground and glared at the giant. 

Arthur grabbed a sword from the wall and ran to protect Princess Olwen, but got shoved out of the way by Merlin. The giant somehow tripped and fell straight on Merlin. 

“Merlin!” cried Arthur and ran towards the giant with a sword and swung the sword into the giant’s neck. He pulled the sword out of the giant and was about to swing the sword again, when he realized the giant was still, very very still. 

Arthur quickly dropped the sword and began to try to push the giant. “Help me!” he called to his knights. To his surprise, the first person to join him was Princess Olwen. With the help of the knights and Princess Olwen, they managed to push the giant over on his side. 

“Merlin!” Arthur knelt beside Merlin. “Someone go get Gaius!” 

Arthur carefully moved Merlin’s neckerchief and put his finger on Merlin’s neck. He breathed a sigh of relief when he felt a quick, but light pulse under him. Arthur stroked Merlin’s hair back from his face and worried. Merlin was so fragile and yet he always insisted on throwing himself into harm's way. Merlin had delicate features and such a skinny little body, Arthur couldn’t help but to feel protective over him. Arthur lightly ran his fingers down Merlin’s face, feeling reassured that he was still warm and alive. 

Gaius rushed in and checked for injuries along Merlin’s back. He probed Merlin’s head with his fingers, lifted up Merlin’s eyelids and then sat back and sighed. 

“I’m worried about Merlin’s spine,” said Gaius. “We’ll have to move him away from this area, but we will have to do so carefully. One wrong jostle, and Merlin could lose the ability to walk.”

“Take him to my chambers,” Arthur ordered. “They are much closer than his room.”

Arthur helped Gaius carefully move Merlin onto a stretcher before carrying Merlin down the corridor to his room. They gently transferred Merlin down on Arthur’s large comfortable bed and Arthur gave a quiet sigh of relief. Arthur worriedly paced besides the bed as Gaius carefully examined Merlin, applying bandages of white cotton that soon soaked with red. After a long while, Gaius sighed and stood up. 

“How is he?” asked Arthur urgently. 

“He will live, but he needs some time to heal. He appears to have a few broken ribs and a large laceration to his side. I will need someone to apply this balm of arnica to his ribs and calendula oil to the laceration so I can collect the herbs necessary for the potions for his head wound and blood loss as quickly as possible.” 

“I can help,” said Arthur. “I can send a team of my men with you to find the herbs, while I apply the balm and the oil.” 

Gaius nodded. “Thank you, Sire. Merlin should be fine for the next couple of hours.” 

After calling a team of knights to accompany Gaius, Arthur sat on the bed besides Merlin. Merlin looked far too pale next to Arthur’s red blanket. Arthur dipped his hand in the balm of arnica and began to gently rub it into Merlin’s ribs. Merlin’s skin was soft and white, but Arthur was concerned about a few scars dotting Merlin’s torso. A fierce protectiveness rose in Arthur, surprising himself. He never thought that he would feel this strongly about his servant, but in that moment Arthur was certain that he would die for Merlin. 

Merlin teased Arthur to no end and spoke his mind far more than he should as a servant. Yet, Merlin was loyal; not to the future king of Camelot, but to Arthur himself. There was no other that regarded Arthur in that sense. 

Arthur watched as Merlin’s thin chest rose and fell with his steady breaths. He drizzled the oil over Merlin’s dressings and rubbed his hand soothingly into Merlin’s side. Merlin’s breaths deepened and his face relaxed, as if he was comforted by Arthur’s touch. Arthur leaned forward and studied Merlin’s face. Then, Arthur leaned down and pressed a kiss onto Merlin’s sweaty forehead. 

Arthur heard a noise in the doorway and saw Princess Olwen standing with a small smile on her face. 

“I can come back if this is a bad time,” she said. 

Arthur blushed fiercely and cleared his throat. He didn’t know what had overcome him to kiss his manservant in such a tender way. “This is fine.” 

Princess Olwen bowed gracefully with none of her previous shyness or overt flirtations present in her movements. “Thank you, Prince Arthur. I will be brief.” 

Arthur nodded. “Go on, Princess Olwen.” 

“I wanted to apologize for bringing such chaos to your court and your kingdom,” Princess Olwen heaved a great sigh. “ Ysbaddaden the giant has been terrorizing my kingdom for years. Then, a sorcerer came forth with the prophecy that after I fell in love, Ysbaddaden would die.”

“I take it that Ysbaddaden did everything in his power to prevent you from falling in love, then,” said Arthur.

“That is unfortunately correct. To stop the prophecy, Ysbaddaden, the giant imprisoned my father, and used his magic to impersonate him. He also bewitched me to keep me from rebelling against him and arranged my marriage to you with King Uther. Ysbaddaden thought that if I married you, I would not fall in love and the prophecy would never be fulfilled.” Princess Olwen blushed and looked down at the floor before meeting Arthur’s eyes. “However, unbeknownst to him, I had already promised myself to a young prince called Culhwch.”

“I am grateful that Ysbaddaden is finally laid to rest and you can marry Prince Culhwch,” said Arthur. “Ysbaddaden’s actions are his fault, not yours. If you wish, Camelot will remain an ally to your kingdom.” 

Princess Olwen bowed her head. “That is very great news, indeed. I was worried about informing you that I would not be able to marry you. Some men don’t take that too well, so I was relieved that you, too, love another.” She nodded her head to the back of the room. 

“I would never force a woman to marry me against her will,” said Arthur. “And I respect that promises made under the hold of a spell are not binding.” 

“Thank you, Prince Arthur,” smiled Princess Olwen. “Camelot will gain much from your leadership.” 

“It was my privilege to meet you,” said Arthur, giving Princess Olwen a bow. 

“I’ll leave you to tend your loved one,” Princess Olwen had a soft smile on her face. “I understand it is hard to marry for love and not for the good of your kingdom, but for your sake Arthur, I hope you get to do the former. You, of all people, deserve it.” 

Arthur frowned and then gaped when he realized what Princess Olwen was hinting at. “Er, no, no, no. I’m afraid you’ve gotten it all wrong. Merlin isn’t my lover.” Arthur let out a slightly hysterical laugh. “Merlin is my servant.” 

“I understand.” Princess Olwen winked at Arthur. “Your secret is safe with me.” 

Arthur blushed fiercely as Princess Olwen walked out the door. “Merlin isn’t my loved one,” he muttered to himself. 

Idiot , murmured Myrddin. Arthur jumped. He had completely forgotten about the old sorcerer living in his head. 

“Do you know if Merlin will be alright?” asked Arthur. 

He’ll be fine , Myrddin responded. He’ll be even better if you keep rubbing arnica onto his ribs like Gaius told you to . 

“That’s what I was doing before Princess Olwen came in,” protested Arthur. 

No, you weren’t . Myrddin sounded exasperated. You were stroking him and kissing his face .

“I was not!” exclaimed Arthur indignantly. 

You were too, you great big idiot .

“Merlin almost died,” said Arthur. “I don’t know if you care for servants, but Merlin is also my friend. I was very concerned for my friend.”

Would you do that to any other friend? Myrddin sounded smug. I think not.  

“You are taking this out of proportion,” Arthur replied hotly. “I was expressing my care. I never want to take advantage of him.” 

You weren’t taking advantage of him, don’t worry , assured Myrddin. It was all very virginal and innocent. But I think he’d like you to do that when he is awake instead . 

Arthur opened his mouth to give an outraged reply, but Gaius burst through the door. 

“How is he, sire?” asked Gaius slightly out of breath and sweaty.

“He is doing well,” said Arthur. “I did everything that you requested me to do.” 

And more , smirked Myrddin. 

“Excellent,” said Gaius. He rested his hand on Merlin’s forehead. “I knew I could count on you. Merlin seems to be doing much better. I have collected all the herbs I need and will have the concoctions ready by dawn at the earliest.” 

“Take care of yourself, Gaius,” Arthur said. “Is there any way I can help?” 

“If Merlin could remain here for the night, that would be best for him,” said Gaius. “I am afraid that moving him may slow his healing.” 

“Of course,” said Arthur. “Merlin is welcome to stay here and heal. Do you need anyone to help make the concoctions?” 

Gaius shook his head. “No, sire. No one else has the skill to help me but Merlin.” 

Arthur nodded. “I’ll stay here and keep an eye on him.” 

“Thank you, sire,” said Gaius. “I appreciate your concern for Merlin.”

“Of course, Gaius.” 

Gaius turned to leave, but hesitated by the door. “You can sleep, Arthur. Merlin is strong and will make it through the night. He doesn’t need someone to watch him all night. It would help me best if you were awake and alert to assist me tomorrow.” 

“Of course,” said Arthur. 

After Gaius left, Arthur changed into his bedclothes. “I can do this by myself, believe it or not,” he told the sleeping Merlin. 

Myrddin sniggered a bit, but didn’t say anything. 

“Where should I sleep?” asked Arthur. “Merlin is in the bed.” 

Your bed is big enough to fit three comfortably. Merlin doesn’t take up that much space . Just don't crush him in your sleep. 

Arthur slipped into bed besides Merlin and tried to fall asleep. However, he was so conscious of Merlin laying in the bed next to him, he couldn’t fall asleep. His body was awake and alert from the nerves of the day. 

After tossing and turning for a good amount of time, Myrddin sighed. Arthur, go and take a walk. You need to calm down so you can sleep . 

“Says the person who invaded my dreams and didn’t let me sleep well for weeks,” grumbled Arthur. 

That was a mistake , said Myrddin. I didn’t know that you’d be so affected by them.

Arthur frowned and looked over at Merlin. “Will he be okay on his own?” Merlin looked so soft in the moonlight. Arthur felt a strange sort of squeeze in his heart at seeing Merlin in his bed. 

He’ll be fine , Myrddin promised. You heard Gaius. You’re more helpful if you are awake tomorrow. Go and wear yourself out so you can sleep .

Arthur tore himself away from the warm bed besides Merlin and opened the door to his room. He walked past the night guards feeling the cold stone of the castle seep into his feet. He turned the corner when he saw familiar brown curls at the end of the hallway. 

“Morgana?” called Arthur. Morgana turned around, her face pale in the moonlight. An image from one of Arthur’s dreams of Morgana with messy hair and a crazed look in her eyes taking the crown from his father flashes in Arthur’s mind. 

“Arthur?” said Morgana and the sight of her concerned face wipes the image from his eyes. “What are you doing up this late?” 

“I, er, couldn’t sleep,” said Arthur. “Today was…” He trailed off, unsure what to say. 

“I understand,” replied Morgana. “It was a bit terrifying. Is Merlin alright?” 

Arthur nodded. “Gaius is working on the medicine as we speak.” 

“That’s a relief,” sighed Morgana. “I can’t get the image of the giant falling on him out of my mind.” 

Arthur shuddered. The image haunted him as well. “What are you doing awake?” asked Arthur. 

“You know I have problems sleeping,” said Morgana. 

“I thought Gaius gave you sleeping draughts for that?” asked Arthur. “Gaius gave me one and it knocked me right out.” 

“The sleeping draughts don’t help anymore,” sighed Morgana. “I’ve been having these terrible nightmares…” 

“Oh really?” asked Arthur. “What about?” 

Morgana shook her head. “I’d rather not say.” 

“If it is weighing that heavily on your mind, I’d be happy to shoulder some of the weight,” replied Arthur. “I’ve had my share of nightmares as well.” 

Morgana gave Arthur a small quiet smile. “You are normally such an oaf, but you can be quite sweet sometimes.” 

Arthur frowned and scratched his head. “An oaf?” 

“An oaf,” confirmed Morgana with a larger smile. “I did say that you could be sweet as well.” She was beginning to look more like herself. 

“Well, thank you for that vote of confidence,” said Arthur. “If I am going to be further insulted, I may as well head back to bed.” Arthur nudged her with his arm to show that he was joking. 

Morgana nudged Arthur back. “You should go. You need to sleep, Arthur. Tomorrow is likely to be a long day.” 

“You haven’t really told me much. Are you sure there is nothing I can do?” asked Arthur. “I can go get Guinevere if you’d rather talk to her.” 

“Oh no, I don’t want to wake her up,” said Morgana. “She does enough already.” 

“Alright,” said Arthur. “Well, if you don’t want to tell me that’s fine. But I’ve already seen you at your worst. Remember when you tried seducing that poor visiting knight? I don’t think there is anything you can do that will change my perspective of you.”

Inside Arthur’s head, Myrddin shifted slightly as if he was uncomfortable. 

“There are still things you don’t know about me,” Morganna sighed. 

“I can’t help you if I don’t know them,” said Arthur. Morgana tilted her head and studied him thoughtfully.

“Will you promise not to tell anyone about this?” asked Morgana softly. Morgana was always so powerful and defiant, but now she looked sad, soft, and scared.

“I promise,” said Arthur, taking her hand. “You are family. I will protect you. How bad are these dreams anyway?” 

Morgana took a deep breath and squeezed Arthur’s hand. “I dreamed what happened today.”

“What?” asked Arthur. “Like the whole giant impersonating King Custinnen?” 

“Yes,” said Morgana. “And it’s happened before. My dreams lately-- they’ve been coming true. Not all of them come true, but most of them do. Gaius always tells me not to think about it, but I’m afraid it might be magic. I’m afraid I might be magic.”

The Evil Morgana from his dreams came to mind. Her disheveled hair swirled as her magic shifted the air around her. Her mouth was a thin grim line and her eyes were filled with pain. 

Arthur wanted to retract his hand from Morgana’s grasp. All he could think of was that magic had caused the injuries to Merlin, but the words of Myrddin seemed to echo inside of him: Open your heart . 

The image of Evil Morgana faded from his head as he looked at the Morgana in front of him. Her hair was in order, her mouth was soft, and her eyes were kind. He hoped with all his being, that Morgana would never feel the kind of pain and distrust that the Evil Morgana had in her eyes. 

“We’ll figure it out, Morgana,” promised Arthur. “Whatever it is, we’ll figure it out. Even if you are magic, it’ll be okay.” 

Morgana looked down and Arthur was surprised to see her composing herself as a tear ran down her cheek.

“I may have misjudged you all of these years,” Morgana said thoughtfully. “Thank you, Arthur.” 

Morgana gave him a quick hug and Arthur felt the tension in her shoulders relax. 

“Try to get some more sleep, Morgana,” said Arthur. 

“You too, Arthur,” she smiled at him and walked away down the dark corridor. “Look after Merlin for me.” 

Very good, Arthur , Myrddin’s voice was clear within Arthur’s head. For some reason, Arthur was suddenly reminded of the curse from Anhora for killing the unicorn. 

“Is this a test?” asked Arthur. “To see if I’m worthy of being king?”

You were always worthy of being king, Arthur, replied Myrddin. Your heart is pure and you have the best of intentions in mind. I’m just helping you with your kingdom.

“Just yesterday, you said I was a turd,” complained Arthur. 

You are a turd , came the reply. A princely turd with a heart of gold . 

“Shut up,” said Arthur but he smiled feeling more relaxed than he had in the past six hours. 

Go to sleep, Arthur. You need it and Merlin will need you . And you definitely need Merlin.

Arthur obediently walked back to his room, slid underneath the blanket besides Merlin’s body and fell into a deep dreamless sleep. 

*** 

Arthur woke to find Gaius studying at Merlin who was still in the bed besides him. Arthur blushed, but quickly got over himself after he saw the serious expression on Gaius’s face. 

“Is he alright?” asked Arthur shooting up in bed. “Is Merlin alright?” 

“He is healing,” responded Gaius. “I am worried that he has not awoken yet. If he does not wake, I may have trouble getting him to take his medicine.: 

Arthur frowned. “Is there any other way you can get him to take it?” 

Gaius shook his head mournfully. “I can’t risk him choking on the medicine.” Arthur would have probably stayed pacing his room all day if a servant hadn’t knocked on his door. 

“King Uther requests your presence, sire,” the servant said respectfully. “I am here to help you dress when your manservant is healing.”

“Thank you,” said Arthur. “There is no need for your help. I will be on my way shortly.” 

Arthur dressed himself with only a few mishaps and met his father. King Uther was surrounded by his advisors. 

“Good, you’re here,” said King Uther. “We need to discuss what to do about Princess Olwen.” 

“I talked to her last night,” said Arthur. “I think it is best to let her marry her promised one. If we do so, that will make an ally out of her and her kingdom.” 

“Do you think that we should let her crimes go unpunished?” asked King Uther. 

“Crimes?” Arthur was confused. “What crimes?” 

“The crime of magic,”  said King Uther. “She knows that magic is forbidden in Camelot.”

“But she didn’t use magic,” protested Arthur. “She was the one under a spell.” 

“We can’t be certain,” said King Uther. “We need to think carefully about this.”

“I don’t understand what there is to ponder,” argued Arthur. “We let her go back to her kingdom. She was a victim, father.” 

“We can’t be certain,” repeated King Uther. He wiped his forehead with a shaking hand and Arthur drew closer. 

“Are you alright, father?” 

King Uther nodded, but on closer inspection, King Uther looked grey and sweaty. There were deep bags underneath his eyes and his cheeks looked sunken.

The cake! Myrddin was suddenly very agitated. Ask him if he ate the cake .  

Arthur could have slapped himself. In the chaos of last night, he forgot all about Myrddin’s claim that the cake was poisoned. 

“Did you have some cake last night, father?” Arthur asked. “If so, I am afraid that it may make you ill as it was brought by the giant.” 

“Don’t be ridiculous. I feel fine,” insisted King Uther, wiping a river of sweat off his brow. 

“I can go fetch Gaius to be certain,” suggested Arthur. 

“No, I insist that I am well,” said King Uther. 

“Very well, father,” Arthur replied. 

King Uther nodded just once and then leaned over to vomit a bright green substance all over the floor. 

Go, quickly , Myrddin urged, but Arthur was already sprinting towards his chambers. 

“Gaius, Gaius,” Arthur panted as he entered the chamber. “My father.. He is unwell. I can help with Merlin.” 

“Please give Merlin the rest of this brew,” said Gaius. “One spoonful every ten minutes. He needs a spoonful in about a minute.” Gaius shoved the brew into Arthur's hands and rushed off. 

Arthur moved closer to the bed to see Merlin gazing sleepily at him. “You’re awake,” said Arthur feeling something in his chest loosen. 

“Observant of you to notice,” Merlin whispered and the corner of his mouth twitched in a half smile. 

“Don’t talk,” Arthur ordered. “You are still healing. I am going to give you a spoonful of this medicine and then I will find someone to look after you, while I help Gaius with my father.”

“Tastes gross,” Merlin murmured. 

“You liked the taste of my buna brew,” said Arthur. “I think you can handle a spoonful of this.” 

Arthur poured out a spoonful of medicine and held it in front of Merlin’s lips. As Merlin closed his lips around the spoon, grimaced and then pulled back to smile sleepily at Arthur, Arthur felt the same fierce protectiveness rise in him that he had felt last night. Merlin was so delicate that it worried Arthur.

Arthur watched Merlin’s eyes flutter closed. He got up and ran into the hallway to fetch a servant, almost running straight into Gwen. 

“Gwen!” Arthur said urgently. “Will you help me? My father’s ill but someone needs to give Merlin a spoonful of this medicine every ten minutes.” 

“Certainly,” said Gwen grabbing the medicine bottle from Arthur’s hands. “I’ve got it covered, Arthur.”

“Thanks Gwen,” Arthur gave her a brief smile and then hurried off to go find Gaius and his father. 

***

As Merlin got better, Uther slowly became weaker. 

Before long, Gaius had ordered Uther to bed rest. Arthur became worried when Uther was too sick to argue against it. 

Surprisingly, Arthur’s only solace was having Merlin near him every night. Merlin was still recovering and hadn’t yet left Arthur’s bed for long stretches of time. Arthur found Merlin's presence comforting. After a long day, he liked coming back to listen to Merlin's comments and funny little anecdotes. At night, listening to Merlin's quiet breathing soothed Arthur to sleep. 

Arthur should really have sent Merlin back to Gaius’s chambers long ago, but Arthur’s chambers were much better heated than the room Merlin normally lived in. Also, Gaius was worried about how moving Merlin would affect his back. Arthur didn’t think he could stand losing both his father and Merlin. 

Under the care of Gwen and occasionally Morgana, Merlin slowly became well enough to walk up and down Arthur’s room. 

When he wasn’t with Merlin, Arthur was busy running the kingdom on his father’s behalf and standing vigil besides his father’s bed. Morgana was a great help during these times. She helped Gaius look after King Uther and took on tasks without even asking Arthur. Arthur was forever grateful for her presence. 

As Merlin grew stronger, he grew more concerned for Arthur. Arthur could sometimes see the worry hidden in Merlin’s eyes even as he laughed and teased Arthur. In the chaos of King Uther’s illness, Merlin stayed in Arthur’s room without question. To Arthur, it made sense because Gaius spent most nights in the room next to the King’s and someone needed to help take care of Merlin. Arthur became accustomed to seeing Merlin’s clothes in his closet and Merlin’s sleepy smile before bed. It is a comfortable domesticity that seems almost natural to Arthur. The cheerful company of Merlin healing next to him gives Arthur strength to deal with the pain and stress of losing his father and taking upon the duties of a king. 

One terrible day, when King Uther seemed close to death, Merlin came and put his arm around Arthur’s shoulder’s. 

“I know you hate magic, Arthur,” said Merlin. “But maybe magic would help reverse whatever the giant did to Uther.” 

“Magic is outlawed, Merlin.” Arthur shook his head.. “Where would I find a sorcerer in Camelot?” Besides the one living inside his head, Arthur privately added. 

Merlin hesitated. “Well, there is one old man that lives in a hut in the forest. Some call him Emrys and say he is a sorcerer.” 

“The forest is a rather large area to cover,” said Arthur. “How would I find the sorcerer?”

“I could take you,” Merlin offered. 

No , Myrddin responded instantly. He is too weak. He means well, but in the state he is in, it would kill him and that wouldn’t do any good to anyone . 

“That is not an option, Merlin,” said Arthur firmly. “You can barely walk the length of my room!” 

“I wouldn’t need to walk,” argued Merlin. “I could ride upon a horse.” 

He’s an idiot , Myrddin interjected. Don’t listen to him . 

“No, Merlin,” said Arthur. “Don’t be an idiot.” He brushed the top of Merlin’s head fondly with his hand and left to go to another council meeting. 

When he was outside in the corridor, Arthur whispered angrily. “Do you really think that I was going to let him go out in the forest? I don’t need you to lecture me about Merlin. I already know he is a well meaning idiot.” 

You should send Gwen to keep an eye on him , said Myrddin. To make sure he doesn’t do something stupid . 

“Hmph,” said Arthur annoyed. Nevertheless, he had a servant fetch Gwen to keep an eye on Merlin. Just in case. 

***

King Uther died on a Tuesday and Arthur was crowned king on Wednesday. That night he got back to his room to see Merlin silently slipping out. 

“Where do you think you’re going?” asked Arthur. 

“Back to my chambers,” said Merlin. “I’ve overtaken your hospitality long enough.”

“No, I didn’t mind at all,” said Arthur. Arthur rather enjoyed having Merlin to talk to at night. The one thing that got him yesterday and today was the thought of Merlin's steady presence at his side. 

There are chambers for the Prince’s manservant adjacent to your room , Myrddin suggested. Merlin still isn’t quite aware how much he means to you . 

“You are welcome to the chambers next to me,” said Arthur. “That’s where the prince’s manservant is meant to sleep. If he wishes.” 

“Thank you for the offer, Arthur,” said Merlin. 

Merlin turned to leave, but Arthur grabbed his hand. 

“Tonight, just tonight. Would you mind staying with me?” 

Merlin nodded and they slipped into bed together. 

Arthur suddenly felt embarrassed. “I don’t want to pressure you into staying in my room with me. You are free to leave at any time.” 

“I’m not being pressured, Arthur,” said Merlin. “Your bed is much more comfortable than my bed and your chambers are much warmer.”

“Good,” said Arthur. “Good.” 

“I just thought that I had overstayed my welcome.” 

“What made you think that?” Arthur rolled on his side to look at Merlin. 

“There has been talk.” Merlin swallowed and Arthur watched his throat bob with the movement. “Gossip that I was doing more than just healing in your bed while the king was dying.” 

“Have you come to any harm?” asked Arthur with concern. 

“No.” Merlin turned to look at Arthur. “I am fine. I don’t want to reflect badly on you. Especially now that you are king.” 

“I am not worried about that.” Arthur felt such a fondness for Merlin. “I have bigger things to worry about than a bit of gossip. Surprisingly, your presence has been helpful.” 

“I’m glad to hear that,” Merlin gave Arthur a small smile. “Although, I must request to sleep in the servants chambers from now on. I’ve been resting, but I need to go back to my duties.”

Arthur felt his stomach drop unpleasantly, but nodded. “Of course, Merlin.” 

Arthur laid the darkness and listened to the steady sounds of Merlin’s breath. Arthur felt some sort of sadness, but he couldn’t quite identify it. It was not the harsh darkness of losing his father, but it was a quiet sort of mourning. 

Merlin cares deeply for you , Myrddin said. He merely wants what is best for you.  

“Weren’t you supposed to leave when I became King?” asked Arthur. 

I thought I would , said Myrddin. Apparently, there is still more to be done. You certainly have a lot to learn and many people to meet .

“So I’m stuck with you?” Arthur said. 

It appears so . Myrddin responded. And I, with you. Now sleep, Arthur. Tomorrow is your first day of being king .

Arthur opened his mouth to say that he wasn’t sleepy, but a wave of gentle golden slumber hit him and he fell asleep.