Archive of Our Own ^beta

King Arthur watched the fire flicker and dance in the middle of the camp, vaguely tuned into the chatter around him as his eyes blurred with deep thought. It’s been a long week of assisting the army of Caerleon in a battle against a foreign army. In any other instances Arthur would’ve declined the request to intervene and fight against a power he had no clue of but Queen Annis was a long time friend and ally and he knew if he were in the same position, she’d send her army to help. 

He only sent a hundred knights, with him leading them and of course Merlin by his side. They worked hard and with no losses on their side, he decided they were to not push their luck and return to Camelot immediately after the capture of the other kingdom’s King. 

He watched the men around him chatter and eat the warm soup Merlin had prepared with his group of servants. On the way home they decided to split the army in four so they could spread about more evenly and each campsite wouldn’t be as crowded. Arthur made sure to stick with the group of knights he’s closest to, letting his older knights lead the other groups. 

This group of his were rowdier but they chatted with him like he was a friend so he couldn’t complain. In fact, he thinks perhaps they deserve some sort of reward for trusting him to lead them in a battle that was not their own. 

He stood up, taking his spoon to the steel bowl and clanked against it until he got the attention of some of them which started an effect where they slowly hushed down until it was dead silent. 

“Men. I know we’re all tired but I’m glad you’re in such good spirits. We are set to return home by tomorrow evening, and once we do I suggest you pack your belongings and go home to see your families if you would be pleased,” There was a collective confusion among them, as they turned to look at each other with furrowed brows and questions on their lips. “As an offering of my gratitude for your loyalty and hard work, you all have a week off, relieved of all your duties, starting the moment we step foot in Camelot.” 

The camp erupted with cheers and chants of Long live the king and he bit back a smile as he tried to contain their excitement. “But you better enjoy it, as the moment you’re back, training will be hell if I have anything to do with it!”

The knights continued to celebrate, and Merlin emerged from where he was perched by the fire with the pot of soup. “Does all duties include serving the king?” he asked, batting his eyes, glassy, pupils blown and lit by the fire. 

Arthur couldn’t help the smile that tugged at his lips, of course Merlin wanted a day off. “Go on then. But you better not complain about wanting a day off again for at least two seasons!” 

He watched as Gwaine shook Merlin’s shoulders in excitement. Merlin kept his eyes on Arthur, a smile threatening to spill out. “My lord, you know I’m going to complain anyway.”

“Whatever, but your break doesn’t start until the morning after, I still need a warm bath and dinner when we get home. No, George is absolutely useless in getting the temperature of my bath right,” he added when Merlin opened his mouth to protest.

“Aw, the princess needs you to warm his bath, Merls,” Gwaine laughed, hitting Merlin’s shoulder. 

“Alright, sire, you have me for another day and then I’m free of you for 7 days.”

“Correction, Merlin. I’m free of you.” 

On Merlin’s first day off, by the end of breakfast, he had already ran into Arthur on his way to the knights’ quarter. It was so strange seeing Arthur and not being called to walk with him to whatever King-ly tasks he had to do. 

Arthur instead gave him a curt nod in passing, “Merlin.”

“My lord,” Merlin replied, trying to contain his smile. Although no longer a servant for the week and not quite a noble, to Arthur he was just another person walking around the castle. So all he could do was nod in acknowledgement. 

Merlin could get used to this, he thought. 

It happened once more that evening as Arthur was probably retiring for the night. 

“Merlin!” 

“Arthur.”

“If you have a mome–”

“No can do, Sire, it's my day off. One of seven,” He quipped with a glimmer in his eyes. 

Arthur followed him with his eyes and body, “Yes, I recall, I just–”

“Merlin, hurry up! Gwaine is getting impatient,” Leon called from down the hall. It was certainly strange seeing the First Knight out of his maille and cloak. He waved at Arthur. “Evening, sire.”

“Where are you guys headed to?” Arthur asked softly, turning his attention back on Merlin once Leon turned the corner. 

“The tavern,” Merlin replied earnestly. “Whatever you wanted can wait til next week right?”

“Yes, no. I’ll have George get on it, instead,” Arthur mumbled, lips tight. “Enjoy your night, Merlin.”

He turned down the hall to his chambers.

Merlin had realised that the majority of the knights took the chance to go to their homes and visit their families, some having to travel to neighbouring villages and others staying in their homes in the city. The ones that did stay in the knights’ quarters were the close pack he’s grown to love, the knights of the round table. Well, bar Elyan and Lancelot who decided to stay down in Elyan’s home in the city.

They sat around at a table in the tavern, after a game of dice,laughing their heads off at an outrageous story Gwaine was telling. It's very rare that they were able to gather like this and drink to their hearts desire without worrying about being too inebriated at training the following day. Leon, in particular, was almost never with them – deeming his responsibilities as First Knight were too important and it required him to set an example for others to follow – and yet here he was on his third pint of ale with his cheeks the colour of his cloak (long forgotten in his quarters). 

Merlin exhaled as the laughter died down and brought the mug to his lips. He wasn’t much of a drinker, he didn’t like the taste of it much less how intoxicated it made him so he was taking it slow. Just in case.  

“So Merlin, how was your prattiness?”

Merlin rolled his lips in and put down the mug. “What do you mean?”

“Leon said he found you talking to him before we left,” Gwaine grinned. “You really couldn't stay away, could you?”

Merlin’s eyebrows furrowed. “Well, hold on! I just happened to run into him on my way out. It’s a common space.”

“Right in front of his chambers.” Leon scoffed.

“I wasn't there for him! I was–”

Lancelot nudged him, “It's alright, Merls, it's not your fault you’ve spent nine years serving your king. You probably have an innate attachment to his chambers.” 

Elyan and Gwaine snorted at that, sharing a look that Merlin was not privy to. His cheeks began to burn, feeling betrayed by Lancelot’s comment. He was the only one who truly knew the lengths of Merlin’s devotions to Arthur. Although he knew it was nothing more than friends ribbing on each other, it stung that his feelings were the butt of the joke. 

Lancelot may only know because Merlin admitted it in a spur of the moment whilst their lives were partially in danger but he had an inkling that the rest of the table also understood that his love for their king was deeper than theirs. He could see it in the pitiful ways they looked at him whenever Arthur was a tad bit dismissive or the teasing ‘Ooh’s they threw his way whenever Arthur complimented him (which was starting to become less rare these days).

“I can survive a week without needing to serve Arthur, you guys! I swear I was only there to speak with George.”

“And pray tell, why were you speaking with George?”

Merlin grumbled before taking another sip of his ale. 

“Sorry, what was that?” Elyan asked.

“To let him know which fragrance oils to use for Arthur’s baths, alright! He’s very particular about this stuff and I don't want to go back to work with a prissy prat who unloads all of George’s work on me.” He felt hot all over as he sank in his chair and covered his face. 

Okay so maybe his first day off wasn’t going too well. He’s been serving Arthur for too long, as a prince, a king and as his other half (of the coin) that he doesn’t know how to not serve him. And he wonders if Arthur also doesn’t know how to not be served by Merlin or if he’s normal and notices no real difference between him and George. 

Leon chuckled. “Merlin, you really do need a holiday. Arthur’s driving you mad.”

Merlin shrugged, a pout on his lip, “He’s not that bad – Oh Gods, I already have captured syndrome,” He groaned into his hands. 

A hand came up to caress his back in sympathy. “You’re alright, Merls. Just forget about Arthur for the week and relax.” Lancelot said softly. 

“Just hang out at the knights quarters with us,” Percy supplied. 

Merlin nodded meekly. “I suppose I will, I’ll try to busy myself with helping Gaius.”

“Merlin, Merlin,” Gwaine drawled, his hand heavy on his head, giving it slow pats. “It's your week off, I’m sure old Gaius wouldn't mind also giving you some time off. Get out of the castle, come down to the lower town with us and have fun. I’m sure we can find you a lovely lad to get your mind off our princess.”

Merlin’s face contorted into something akin of disgust as he shrugged his hand off causing him to laugh. “I’m not doing that but… I will try to be as workless as possible,” He raised his jug, “To our week off!”

The men cheered.

His second day was already a bore. After Gaius agreed to give him some time off as well, Merlin had nothing else to do but wait out the sun. Some of the men were already nursing their hangovers and others (Lancelot, who rarely ever gets drunk) were on horse rides in the forest surrounding the kingdom. 

And Merlin,.. He was becoming restless. He couldn’t sit still, he needed to do something, always had. Now without having to run errands for Gaius or prepare potions and remedies, he was left to his own devices. 

So he decided to clean around. Starting with the infirmary because that’s not really a job or a chore forced on him, he just needed it to be clean so he can walk through it on his way out to the tavern without breaking something on the way. Yeah, that’s all.

After cleaning his room next, he came to the realisation that some of his things were missing. Some clothes and spell books. Well, not missing because he knew exactly where they were. 

With a groan, he left the physician chambers and made his way to the king's, praying he was in his court like he normally was during the middle of the day. If it had been any other place he would’ve been glad for the excuse to leave his room. 

As he barged in he was immediately met with alarmed Arthur sitting at his desk with some documents in his hands. He looked regal as always, the sun shining onto him from the window behind him, the circlet crown on his head, his golden hair glistening in the rays. 

Dammit, Merlin thought exasperatedly.  

“Merlin!” The smile that stretched across his face was blinding and any other time Merlin would revel in it being directed at him. But he had something to prove, to himself and his friends, that he wasn’t at Arthur’s beck and call even when he’s off duty. “Back already? I knew you would become restless not serving me. Come, help me sort–”

“No, not here for that, sire. I just remembered I have left some books in the antechamber from the night you were ill.” 

It was rare that Arthur was ill without any magical reckoning so when one winter week he couldn't break a sudden fever, Gaius advised that Merlin stay close to him in case he was needed at night. It was the first time since becoming Arthur’s manservant that he used the antechamber and ever since then he slept in it maybe twice after returning home late from a trip and helping Arthur into bed, too tired to walk across the castle to his own room, he decided to sleep in the antechamber.

“Oh,” Arthur sank back into his chair then turned away allowing Merlin the chance to run into the room and grab his things. He quickly hid his spell book in between two of Gaius’ physician books then walked back out.

“Had fun last night?” He asked as soon as Merlin was back in his view. 

“Yeah. It was alright.”

Arthur hummed, tapping his fingers gently against the table. “Going out again?” He could tell Arthur was probably feeling lonely and perhaps even peeved about having to go through council meetings with none of his knights. 

Merlin shrugged. “Probably. Maybe just Lancelot and I, the rest are still in bed.”

He nodded. 

“Is George serving you well?”

“He's– decent. Can't complain.”

Merlin snorted and teased, “But you want to.” A part of him wanted to pull out a chair and listen to Arthur prattle on about how his room’s a mess and his baths are tepid and his breakfast is too full– okay maybe he won’t be complaining about the portions of his food. But Merlin knew if he sat down he'd only get up to go to sleep once the dark blanket covered the skies and Arthur began yawning. And that is quite the opposite of ‘forget about Arthur and relax’.

“I’ll save it for when you're back,” He replied with a smirk, giving him an out, then turned back to his papers. “Have fun, Merlin.”

“Thank you, sire.” And for once, there was sincerity in his tone as he called him by his title. 

He left the chamber with his heart caught in his throat and he decided that he needed to stop coming anywhere near this quarter of this castle. He had to last a few days without seeing Arthur. 

On the third day of the honourable week off, Arthur found himself at the threshold to Morgana’s room. He didn’t come up here often, at least not since he became king. But there was a time when they were kids that he always found solitude in her room, so high in the tower, away from the rest of the nobility. She had been the coal he needed on the coldest winters of his childhood and she was prepared to give him a share of her warmth. 

Aside from seeking out her counsel when he had issues he couldn’t solve alone, he also came to her when he was bored out of his mind. Like he was this instant. All of his men were gone, he'd gotten his work done by midday, there were no random quests or attacks to deal with and no Merlin. 

This was personal hell for someone who lived off on adventure and chaos. 

So he came to his original source of adventure before Merlin and he watched her as she sat at her vanity table staring up at Gwen who was carding her fingers through her hair, twirling the loose curls on her forefinger. Their voices were hushed as they chattered and Morgana was using any excuse to touch her maiden. 

Arthur cleared his throat as he stepped in, pretending not to notice the way Gwen stepped back and how Morgana’s mood immediately dropped, her icy eyes glaring at him. 

“Can we help you?”

“What are you ladies up to today? Shall we set out to the clearing for a picnic?” A grin was plastered on his face but internally he was grimacing at the thought. 

A picnic… he’s not – Merlin. Weirdly in fact, the last time he went on a picnic was with Merlin. It was technically lunch in the middle of their hunting trip but there was still a basket and a blanket and all the goodies Merlin packed for them. Did that count? 

They raised their eyebrows and shared a look. “you want to hang out with us?”

“Can't I want to spend time with my sister and her – friend?” Arthur asked, fingers fiddling with the embroidery of the duvet cover on her bed. 

Gwen looked unimpressed. “What’s really going on, my lord?” 

Arthur pouted then twisted his lips to the side. “I made the grave mistake of giving my men the week off and now I’m bored out of my mind and unfortunately I can't also give myself the week off and because I’m always actively king, I can't just join them at a tavern and now I just feel like I’m not really their–” he cut himself off, going red in the face with both embarrassment and frustration. 

It’s only been three days, he shouldn’t let it get to him like this but whenever Merlin mentioned they were going for drinks, a part of him hoped they would invite him. Sure, he couldn’t actually go with them, at least not without placing Morgana in charge beforehand but he would’ve still liked to be invited. To be asked, to be thought of and prioritised. 

But the other part of him knew it could never be, he was their king and no matter how many quests they go on together or how willing they are to risk their lives for him, there’s always going to be this dynamic where unless they’re on the job, he’s not someone they want to hang around with. 

They were his men but he was just their king. 

Morgana sighed before flipping her hair over her shoulder. “You miss Merlin.”

Arthur snapped his head to her. “What? No, I didn't even mention him.” He hated this look she was giving him, like she could see right through him, like she knew all his secrets. She didn’t! Merlin was his – Gods, he was his friend, that much he could admit now after everything they’ve been through. Though he knew that’s not what Morgana meant. 

“You didn't have to. We know he has the week off because he was just in here yesterday trying to find a reason to hang around us,” Gwen responded with a small smile. 

That piqued his interest. So Merlin was also bored without him. Good to know. Great, even.  “So…”

Morgana raised her eyebrow. “So?”

“You ladies in the mood for a race to the river?”

That seemed to excite Morgana as she immediately hopped to her feet and held onto Gwen’s arm. “Oh Gwen, bring out our riding wear. I have a title to reclaim.”

Arthur rolled his eyes. She was undoubtedly the fastest rider between them, the only reason she lost to him last time was because Arthur had taken a shortcut he discovered the day before. Not that he would ever admit that to her face. He’ll just have to win again. 

“It’s settled then, this time it’s a three man.. woman race– wait no,”

The girls sputtered out a surprised laugh. “Aw princess,” Morgana cooed.

“‘Gana, please have some respect, it’s her majesty the Queen,” Gwen interjected, causing Morgana to belly laugh and Arthur to blush deeply.

He was already starting to regret suggesting this day. 

Gods, he missed Merlin.

When he returned later that evening just as the sun was setting, he bid the ladies goodnight as he was to retire early and made his way to his chambers. 

George had not been around on his way and was certainly not there when he entered. He was contemplating whether to skip dinner solely so he didn't have to deal with the endless yapper of his manservant. 

At least he had cleaned his rooms while he was away. He wasn't any better at the tasks Merlin did but one thing about him was that he did them with little to no smart mouthing or grumbling or even a sigh. He was almost honoured to serve him, as he should be - he is the king afterall. But Merlin… his nonsensical prattling was certainly missed at quiet times like this.

As he rounded his bed he noticed his small clothes were laid out for the evening and he felt his pulse quicken and his breath got caught in his throat. It wasn't something George did, or any of his other temporary servants. It was only Merlin who would lay out his nightly clothes whenever he wasn’t able to be there to dress him. 

Just a little sign to let him know he thought of him, that he was still a priority in Merlin’s mind. 

So, Merlin had sneaked in while he was away and cleaned his chambers and readied his clothes. 

Arthur snorted, he knew he couldn't last long without serving him.

–

Merlin was nursing a hangover and a headache on his fifth day after going out with Percival and Gwaine. Leon had decided heavy drinking was not his thing and Lancelot and Elyan were out hunting together. 

He groaned as he stumbled out of his small room and walked around Gaius’s workshop for a potion for his headache. The sickening feeling settled into his stomach with the urge to vomit all over the place he could handle, but the pounding of his head was far too much. 

“Gaius- Gaius! Where is the poultice for headaches?” 

Gaius peaked into the room. “Why?”

“Because… I have a headache.”

“We’re all out. I was meaning to get some more herbs today, so I’m afraid you’ll have to deal with that.”

Merlin moaned and clutched his head. For fucks sake, he needed to find away to get rid of this and quick. 

Oh! He had some in a vial in– Arthur’s antechamber. 

“Do you know where Arthur is?”

“The king was in a council meeting an hour ago. He’s probably still in the court.”

Good. He could sneak in and grab his vial before Arthur returned. 

The guards greeted him as he walked to the door. “The King is not in at the moment, Merlin.”

“I know, Gareth. I just need something from my room.”

“Yes, sir.”

He ignored the teasing in his voice and walked in. The room was a mess and it slightly irked him but he couldn’t be told to care at that moment. He stumbled through to his room and started rummaging through the mess. 

“Aha!” He immediately popped open the vial and downed the remaining substance. Grimacing he stood on wobbly legs and walked out into Arthur’s room. The mess was really starting to piss him off, he grumbled as he picked up the strewn clothing on the floor and went over to the basket he used for the dirty laundry. His head was pounding and he was beginning to feel a little dizzy. 

He walked over to the bed to catch himself and as he regained his bearings he noticed the bed was undone so he pulled at the covers to straighten them. As he leaned over to fix the pillows his body hit the comfy bed and before he could even blink he was out like a light.

Arthur felt the pull of exhaustion deep in his bone, heavily dragging him across the castle into his chambers. He had dismissed George for the night, too mentally exhausted from all the meetings to want to take a bath. 

He entered his room and stopped in his tracks at the figure on his bed. “Merlin?”

The body didn’t move. The dolt was probably drunk and snuck in for whatever reason. He sighed and walked over to the privacy screen to begin getting changed out of his robes. Once in the comfort of his night clothes he walked over to the unmoving body and reached over to place a hand on his forehead. “Merlin, you alright?”

He didn't have a fever though he was a little pale but given the circumstance, with him drinking so much the last few days, Arthur's not entirely surprised.

He moved to take off Merlin’s boots, throwing them on the floor next to his own, then maneuvered the dead-asleep body under the heavy covers. Merlin stirred at the movement. He grumbled and his eyes blinked open. “A-arthur? What are you doing?”

“Getting you comfortable.” He mumbled before getting into his side of the bed. He couldn't help but scoff at himself, his side. It was his bed, entirely. There is no his side and Merlin’s side! 

God help him.

Merlin pressed his face into the pillow. “Why are you in my bed?” He asked, his voice muffled by the pillow. “Did you miss me already?”

Arthur would laugh if he wasn’t so damn tired. “Are you feeling ill?”

“A little. Headache. Hangover.” 

“You shouldn't drink so much.” 

“I don't know what else to do. I’m so bored, Art– I can't keep up with Gwaine’s drinking but it's all I can do.”

Arthur gave a sympathetic smile then rubbed his back. “Only a couple of days left and you’ll be back working a million jobs.”

“Yay,” He deadpanned. “Good, really. I – I’ve missed–” 

Arthur waited with his heart in his throat. His hand became heavy on his back. 

“Llamrei.” 

The horse. He missed the horse. Arthur rolled his eyes and turned on his side, his back facing the drunken man. “Goodnight Merlin.”

“Goodnight, Artie.” 

Arthur didn't show any reaction to the absurd nickname that most definitely didn't tug at his heart strings and he definitely didn't show any reaction when Merlin scooted over and placed himself against Arthur’s back, not really touching him but so close that he could feel his breathing through his shirt. 

This was certainly an interesting way to end his night.

–

Merlin wakes up on day six hours before the sun rises, his head clear and mind rested. It shocks him to his bones when he realises where he's sleeping.

Arthur is right behind him, his warm breath down his neck and his heavy hand on his hip. 

What in heaven's name happened? He could barely question it before he was jumping out of bed as inconspicuously and quietly as possible. He grabbed his boots and silently made his way out of the chambers. 

The guards on shift stared at him in confusion. “Is everything okay, Merlin?”

“Yes, nothing's amiss! Just - er heading out before the sun to look for some herbs for Gaius.” 

He didn't wait for a reply as he patted down the hall. 

Later that day he found himself in the Blacksmith household with Gwen, Elyan and Lancelot. Merlin had his throbbing head in his hands, sitting on the edge of Gwen’s old bed (She had been living in her antechamber of Morgana’s room since Elyan and Lancelot moved into the old Blacksmith house for the week). 

Lancelot looked over at him in concern, “you think you did something you might regret?” 

“I don’t know, I mean I don't feel weird, physically,” Like I’d had sex last night, he didn't need to add. “But I hardly remember anything outside of waking up in his bed.”

“You probably were just tired and passed out from the pain medication and Arthur probably couldn't wake you up and let you sleep it out.” Her delicate hands rubbed his back comfortingly.

Gwen was right, obviously, but it didn't make sense. At least not why Arthur just slept next to him like it was nothing instead of maybe sleeping elsewhere or–

Listen to him, he sounded ridiculous. Asking the King to sleep elsewhere or insinuate he should've carried him to the antechamber. His greed was something.

“Merls, you didn't do anything wrong, arthur would've told you by now” 

He gazed up at where Lancelot and Elyan were sharing a single chair, and he could've rolled his eyes at them but they were weirdly sweet in their own way. And it’s not as if Merlin had any ground to stand on, what with him sharing a bed with–

He decided at that moment he couldn't dwell on it nor could he avoid it if it came to be a matter of discussion. He wasn't mentally there! Arthur, on the other hand, knew exactly what he was doing getting Merlin comfortable under his covers and sleeping next to him.

The next time Merlin saw Arthur it was in the training field where he was supervising the training of some new squires. The field looked so empty without his knights. 

Arthur turned to Merlin, eyes squinting from the sun and gave him a wave. “Merlin,” He nodded, and the younger man walked over to him like he was answering a call to prayer. 

He’s not going to do anything he asks, he's not working, he is simply just talking with his king– his friend. 

“Arthur, missing your knights so much you're getting yourself a new squad of bumbling idiots?”

Arthur shoved him. “You would know about bumbling idiots, Merlin.”

Merlin hummed, “I would, I served one for ten years.”

Arthur twisted his lips to keep himself from laughing. “You’re an ass.”

“Takes one–”

“Do you ever shut up, Merlin.”

“Would you like me to, sire?” He batted his eyes at him. Arthur opened his mouth to reply and Merlin turned away, “Too bad, I don't have to listen to you for another day and a half!”

“I am still your king, Merlin. Or have you forgotten?”

“Like you’d ever let anyone forget.”

“You speak treasonously, I should have you in the stocks.”

Merlin actually burst out laughing at that. It took him by surprise really, he hasn't heard that threat in years. Oh he does not miss the stocks.

Arthur couldn't help but smile at his joy. He dared to place a hand on his shoulder, firm and true. “I take it you're feeling much better?”

“Huh?”

“From last night. You slept for what seems like half a day or more.”

Merlin blushed, so they were going to have this conversation. “Yeah, sorry about that, I had a banging headache and the only remedy I had was the one I used for you when you were ill, I suppose I forgot the drowsy effect it had, I ended up crashing trying to put your room together–”

Arthur grinned, “And why were you putting my room together? Are you not on a break?”

Merlin shoved his hand off, his cheeks burning. “In my inebriated ill state I may have become overtaken by my sense of duty and really, sire, it was an absolute pig sty in there. I mean really, what is George good for?”

“About as much as you’re good for, Merlin. He's certainly learnt from his hero.”

Merlin rolled his eyes and let the conversation come to an end as he was not in the mood for this back and forth before he even returned. 

“Why didn't you just wake me up?”

“I tried. You were in a deep sleep, Merlin. And when you did finally crack open an eye you asked me why I was in your bed.” 

Merlin sputtered. He didn't remember that. Did they have a whole conversation he wasn't privy to? What else did he say? 

“And you still let me stay?”

“It was a long night, I barely had the energy to move myself let alone your ass. Besides it was a big enough bed, it's not a big deal.”

Merlin could see a hint of blood rushing to his cheeks as he turned away to view the squires. Merlin decided to take the silence over this conversation and turned his attention to the field as well. 

“Why– when did you leave this morning?”

Merlin paused, his pulse was banging against his skin. “I woke up suddenly at sunrise, thought it was proper to leave before you woke or worse before George got in to wake you.”

Arthur hummed. “I had asked George not to tend to me until midday so you could've–” rested, stayed.

Merlin gave a small nod. “If I had known I might've. Your bed is wonderfully comfortable.”

“As it should be, it is fit for a king.”

Merlin rolled his eyes.

“I could replace the bed in the antechamber for you, if you’ll finally act like a manservant and stay there…” 

A shiver went down his back at the thought of staying so close to Arthur at night. He doesn't know what he’d do if he was given that permission of proximity. 

“Why is it you don’t use my antechambers anyway?”

“Are you also trying to take away the freedom of my nights, sire?” He joked but Arthur didn't laugh. “It's best for both of us that I stay with Gaius.”

“Why?” He asked. “What could happen?”

Arthur was so close, so focused on their conversation, his voice dropping into a deep whisper. Merlin felt a heat pool in the pit of his stomach. 

He licked his lips and asked, “Do you want something to happen?”

He shrugged, “Depends what that something is.” Oh, Arthur, you are not making this any easier for me. Could the king even hear himself? Did he not know what he was saying was suggestive and damn near sex-talk (or at least the closest thing to it Merlin’s ever gonna hear)? 

Merlin gave an uneasy chuckle and broke the tension as he stepped back. Arthur blinked like he was coming out of a trance and increased the distance as well. “Alright, I should– I can't spend my last couple of days as a free man conversing with you. I’ll see you around, your majesty.”

“See you on Monday, Merls.”

–

The seventh and final day of his break came and Merlin spent the first half of the day laying on his bed, waiting. For what he didn't know. Gwaine had said the night before that they were going to get so inebriated that they could opt out of training the next day. Merlin tried to warn him that that wasn't a possibility, there was no opting out, Arthur would make them run laps with their own sick down their fronts. But Gwaine never listened to anyone's words (except maybe Leon when he was authoritative) so tonight they were all to get drinks and play games in the knights quarter. 

Merlin got dressed a few hours before sunset and walked around the castle. He spoke to a few of the laundry maids, seeing how they were, they said they missed seeing him around which made him blush. 

He met George just outside Arthur’s chambers and he had half the sense to try and see if Arthur was in. 

“Merlin, enjoyed your week off?”

“You could say that. Feels a bit weird not having anything to do, Gaius also gave me the week off.”

“Lucky you.”

“How was the prat?”

“His majesty was – okay. Brilliant even. He’s a lot less demanding than before.”

Merlin sighed, he knew what that meant. Arthur probably made a list of chores he couldn't ask George to do so that Merlin would do them perfectly when he came back. He wasn’t even that much better than George (who was immensely dedicated to his craft), he only had his magic on his side for efficiency and that’s not something Arthur is even aware of. 

He opted out in seeing the king as he bid farewell to George and made his way down to the knights quarters. 

Gwaine kept his promise as he got drunk almost instantly and the rest of them had to carry him back to the quarters. They plopped him down on one of the bags of straw then sat around on the floor and the beds. The room they were in was Gwaine and Percy’s shared quarters, two twin beds side by side and a whole load of knightly equipment on the opposite wall. 

“Alright what are we gonna do on our last night?” Elyan asked, his head in Lancelot’s lap. 

“I don't know about you lot but I need my beauty sleep–”

they all yelped to contain Leon before he got up to leave. 

“Come on Lee, let's just chat.”

“About what?”

“...Castle gossip. Yeah, everyone says one gossip they've heard around the castle and if they believe it or not.” Gwaine explained, his goofy grin on display. “I’ll go first, baby Elyan and Lady Morgana are in love.”

“What!?” 

“I am not!”

“Not you, I mean your sister.”

A chorus of Oh’s rang through. Merlin had always suspected this. A lot has changed between the two since he met them, he was a little jealous of how easy it must've come to them. The touches, the hugs, the kisses. He remembered once seeing them reunite after Gwen was kidnapped and the delicate fleeting kiss Morgana pressed into her lips, they weren’t together then and yet– 

Arthur hasn't hugged him once. 

“I believe it. Elyan? Could you confirm it?”

“My sister's business is her own,” he sat up and leaned against Lancelot’s chest. 

“Right, you have your own thing going on,” Percy snorted. “How long has this been going on anyway?”

“I don’t know what you could possibly mean.”

“We’re just– trying things out,” Lancelot, ever noble, answered truthfully. Merlin smiled at them. They really were sweet. “About a season.”

“Is it serious?”

“Must be if they're unabashedly clinging to each other like that. I mean really what did you guys expect us to think when you left the quarters for the week to be alone at Elyan’s house?”

Elyan rolled his eyes at the drunk man, kicking him in the knee. “Move on, Gwaine.”

“Fine, who else?”

“I heard,” Leon started, clearing his throat. His eyes flittered to Merlin and then down at the ground. “That Merlin was seen sneaking out of Arthur’s chambers before first light.” Merlin paled. How the hell did he know that?

“When was this?”

“Yesterday.”

“I believe it.”

“I do too.”

Gwaine smirked, “Really couldn't last a week could you?”

“Are you two also trying things out or what?” Percival asked. “Did– did you guys do it?”

Merlin made a face that caused them to chuckle. “No, no way. He doesn't– we’re not like that. It's a long story but I happen to accidentally fall asleep–”

“Oh I’m sure.”

“It’s true! Lance, Elyan, back me up here.”

“You told us you didn't know what happened.”

“Yeah, but I know nothing like that happened!”

“How are you so sure?”

“Because Arthur isn't like that!”

The room went quiet. 

Leon gave an apologetic smile. “I was only joking, sorry if I upset you Merlin.”

He shook his head. “It’s fine. It's just not like that,”

“Would you like it to be?” Gwaine asked earnestly. “You seem to really like him.”

“I– I do but it’s not like it matters, He's the King. Nothing could ever happen.” If there was ever a time where they could try things out it would've been when Arthur was only the prince but now there was too much on the line. Arthur was to sire an heir and he had to pick carefully who he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. 

The conversation turned back to other light hearted gossip until they decided to call it a night. Elyan and Lancelot patted down to their shared quarters across the hall holding hands and Leon walked with Merlin down the hall. 

“For what it's worth, Merls, if there’s one person I see by Arthur’s side for the rest of his life it’s you.” He said before stopping at his door. 

“I’ll always be by his side,” he replied. “Just not in the way I – in the way it matters.”

“Goodnight, Merlin. Get some rest, I’m sure you're going to need it for tomorrow.”

Merlin grimaced before bidding him goodnight and making his way to the other side of the castle. To get to the physician’s chambers he had to walk through the royal quarters and he felt his feet slow in front of Arthur’s chambers. 

“Alright, Merlin?” Gareth asked.

“Uh, yeah just checking on the king.”

“Of course.”

Merlin pushed open the door very quietly and stepped in. Arthur was already asleep. He should have left but his legs were not moving. He closed the door behind him as he stalked through until he reached the four poster bed. 

Arthur stirred at the pattering of his feet. “Merlin? What– Why are you so early?”

Merlin walked over to the left side of the bed, “This is how dedicated I am to my job.” 

“Don't be ridiculous,Merlin, it’s the middle of the night. Go to sleep.” He flopped back onto his pillow. Merlin didn't move, just watched him breathe deeply. He cracked open his eyes then grumbled. He removed the cover from the side Merlin was standing at. “Get in.”

Merlin's brain never worked so hard to toe off his shoes and get under the cover. He swallowed hard as his head hit the soft pillow. 

“You're beginning to make a habit of this, Merls. Before I know it you’ll be moving in just to sleep here.”

Merlin’s heart skipped a beat. 

“It’s comfy.”

He hummed. “Should be, fit for a king” He mumbled. 

Silence filled the room and Merlin thought he went back to sleep until he moved again, positioning himself on his side, face in Merlin’s direction. “Had fun?”

“Oh, yes. We had the most enlightening conversation.”

“Am I to expect a revolt?” 

Merlin let out a low chuckle, “Maybe. We’ll see how hard training goes tomorrow.”

Arthur hummed, moving in. “I can't believe I’m saying this but– I’ve missed you…lot. It really was boring without you.” 

“Yeah? I missed you as well.”

“I know.”

Merlin raised an eyebrow. “You do, do you?”

“You’re in my bed Merlin.” 

“Fair,” he said shortly. 

“I take it no more days off?”

Merlin rolled his eyes. 

Arthur shifted closer, his arm slung over Merlin’s torso. Merlin’s breath hitched. “Is it such a hard ask? You and I were both bored out of our minds.”

“I still need days off, Arthur,” He replied sternly. His hand came to rest on top of his, thumb caressing it. “Perhaps just not away from you.”

“So no work, just us? Hanging out?”

“Does that work for you?” Merlin tried, turning to face him.

Arthur smiled then nodded. “Works absolutely fine.” He raised the cover over them higher and got comfortable against Merlin’s shoulder.

When Merlin woke up the next morning he was still tucked in comfortably in Arthur’s bed. He didn't remember at first why he was there but their conversation came flooding back to him and he felt his face heat up at the recollection. 

The sun was already out and Arthur wasn’t in bed. That meant he had purposefully let Merlin sleep in on his first day back. 

He got up and got changed into one of Arthur’s old raggy tunics stuffed into the back of the drawers. He made his way down heading straight to the field where he knew Arthur would be with his knights.

Gwaine had spotted him first as he jogged lightly in a lap. He whistled. “Purple looks good on you princess!”

The rest of them turned to face Merlin as he walked over to the fence where Arthur and Leon were observing. Arthur stared at him, eyes scanning his body as his cheeks started to glow crimson. “Nice of you to join us in the land of the living, Merlin.”

“Why didn't you wake me?” He hissed, quiet enough only for Arthur to hear but of course his First Knight heard if the laugh he stifled was any indication. 

“Oh, it’s my job is it?”

“You were right there, you let me sleep in.”

Arthur straightened his back and puffed out his chest in the arrogant kingly way he’s been doing before he was ever king. “Just because you slept in my bed Merlin, doesn't mean you're getting off easy. Two laps.” His voice was loud and teasing, certainly to show off in front of the knights who had paused to stare at them. 

Merlin’s body became hot all over at how unabashedly he announced that they slept in the same bed for anyone to hear. It made him want to hide and it made him want to drag him in for a kiss for good measure.

Merlin gaped at him, “I am not running laps. I’m not a knight.”

“Well you need to exercise if you want to continue coming on trips and hunts with us.” 

“You don't get enough exercise in bed, Merls? Oh Arthur, you gotta do better than that.” Gwaine teased. 

“Shut up, Gwaine.”

Arthur turned to Merlin who was bright red in the face. “He’s right, you know,” He began, voice low just between them. He took a step closer, his hands on his hips. “Purple does look good on you. Is that mine?” 

“Yeah, I didn't have enough time to – are you going to really make me run laps?”

“No,” He grinned, it was soft and private and Merlin wished he could kiss him. “Perhaps we can find you something else to do in my chambers. Sharpening my sword perhaps?”

Merlin blushed. “I’ll get right to it, my lord.”

When he turned around he was met with Leon’s intense stare. He smirked a little then turned back to the knights who were using Arthur’s distraction as an opportunity to rest. 

Merlin found himself quite literally sharpening Arthur’s sword later that day after running some errands for him and Gaius. It was his most cherished chore since it meant he could sit and take as long as he liked because it was of utmost importance that the king's sword was in top shape.

Arthur entered, holding papers in his hand. “Oh Merlin, thought you were still carrying out errands for Gaius.”

“Finished early,” he replied. “Thought I might tidy up around here before I get you your dinner.”

“How efficient of you, Merlin. Did your week off really change you that much?” He joked and Merlin gave a gentle smile and eye roll to indulge him. “Join me?”

“Hm?”

Arthur placed the documents on the table and sat down. It was the moment he sat that Merlin realised with flushed cheeks that he was sitting in the king’s chair but Arthur made no attempt to get him to stand. 

“Join me for supper. We can talk about tomorrow’s meeting and you can help draft me a speech for next week’s feast.”

Merlin pressed his lips into a thin line. “Alright.”

“Good,” he paused and watched Merlin work on the sword. “So did you hear? Morgana’s courting Gwen.” 

“What? Really?”

“Gwen didn't tell you?”

“I suppose not. I mean it was obvious they were– you know but are you sure they’re officially courting?”

Arthur nodded, a smile on his lips. “Morgana’s trying to push for the rules of the court to be changed. ‘Thinks royals should be allowed to court or even marry servants, non-nobles.” 

“Oh, you seem amused by that.” Merlin narrowed his eyes. His heart was pounding in his ears. Did Arthur not agree? Was he even opposed to the idea? 

“What do you think I should do?”

He shrugged, “You are the king and they are your friends, the law is whatever you make it.”

“You know, I spent years of my childhood trying to prove to anyone who’ll listen that I’m nothing like Morgana, that we have nothing in common but,” he paused to have a private chuckle. “it’s become more obvious in the last ten years that we’re more alike than we’d like to admit.”

Merlin curiously asked, “How so?”

“Defying our father, being stubborn as hell, falling in love with our servants, working hard to change laws that have kept the kingdom running for hundreds of years.”

Merlin blinked, mouth agape. “Sorry?”

“Hm?”

“Falling in love with whom?”

Arthur turned to him and for a moment he didn't reply, just stared at Merlin, his gaze heavy and intense. Merlin placed the whetstone on the table and returned the sword on its red cloth. 

“Arthur,”

“Merlin.”

“Did it really only take you a week with George to realise you’re in love with him?”

The choked laugh that escaped Arthur took them by surprise and he threw the paper at Merlin as he laughed into his sleeve. Merlin’s eyes creased as he grinned.

“Merlin, you are insufferable.” He stood up and gripped the back of the chair. Merlin mirrored him, nervously standing only four feet away. 

“Too bad you’re stuck with me.” 

“Too bad,” He repeated. He sighed deeply then ran his hand over his face. “Are you ever going to kiss me Merlin or do I have to wait until we’re at the altar exchanging vows to finally feel your lips on mine?”

Air was knocked out of Merlin as he clenched his core. He swallowed at the confession and his traitorous mind conjured up the image of the two of them holding hands at the head of the altar saying “I do”s and exchanging vows. 

“It is proper that way. Perhaps the court will be more at ease knowing we haven't defiled ea–” He was cut off by Arthur’s lips pressed against his. His large calloused hands held his head in place and good thing too because Merlin could feel his knees buckle as he melted into the kiss.

He kissed back as immediately as he could, desperate hands clinging to Arthur’s body, pressing into him. He licked a line onto the seam of his lips, begging for entry.

Arthur granted it, tilting his head to deepen the kiss. Their tongues danced between them, Arthur’s tasting on the fresh fruit he was snacking on during the meeting. Merlin sucked on it like it was promised nectar from God. 

They eventually pulled away with a gasp. 

“So…”

“So?” Merlin raised an eyebrow, his hands gripping onto his tunic, their hips pressed into each other. His eyes were glossy and lips wet and bruised. He ran his hand up Arthur’s arm and cupped his cheek, his thumb grazing his wet lips. 

Arthur pressed a kiss to his palm, “Will you finally take up my offer of moving in?”

“Was that supposed to convince me?”

“Are you saying I should try harder?” Merlin shrugged with a teasing smile and tangled his fingers into his blond locks. “Challenge accepted.” He attacked his neck with wet kisses and rocked his hips against Merlin’s, eliciting a moan out of him.

“Arthur!”

“Keep sounding like that and I fear you might have to take the day off tomorrow.”

Merlin moaned into his ear, quivering at the statement. Arthur ran his hand down the front side of his body until he was caressing Merlin’s crotch. Merlin bit his lip as he bucked into his hand. “A day off so soon after a week off? The knights will definitely revolt, Artie.” He bit out.

“Let them,” Arthur murmured against his neck. He struggled to get into Merlin’s trousers, warm hand immediately meeting his hot cock once the laces were undone. Merlin hissed, his body tensing at the touch. 

“Fuck, Arthur, take me.”

Arthur looked at him with dark eyes and a crooked smile. “Yes, sir.”