Fic: Expiration Date (Part 2)
Dec. 16th, 2012 07:27 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
geeklover80Title: Expiration Date
Author/Artist:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
geekslave
Pairing(s): Arthur/Merlin, Ganieda (OFC)/Gwaine, Lancelot/Gwen
Characters: Merlin, Arthur, Gwaine, Ganieda (OFC), Gwen, Lancelot, Gaius, Uther, Kilgarrah
Word Count: 35,554
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Just before receiving vital treatment for cancer, Arthur meets Merlin and his life is turned upside down when one night with Merlin results in an unforeseen pregnancy. To protect the baby, Arthur refuses the treatment.
Disclaimer: Merlin characters are the property of Shine and BBC. No profit is being made and no copyright infringement is intended.
Warnings: Mpreg, angst, lots of talk of cancer, fluff.
Notes: Written for the![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-community.gif)
merlinmpreg fest. Special thanks to my beta dustfinger223. I'm not a doctor just play one while writing fic. :) I did a lot of research, but I'm sure I didn't get everything right.
Part 1
When the doctor, Gaius Emerson, arrived, he helped Uther rouse Arthur and decided to take more blood tests after Arthur explained some of his new symptoms. Arthur hated having to wait one more day to get the treatment started. Living in limbo like this was clearly taking its toll on him. When Arthur and Uther arrived the next day, Uther being a little upset that he had to miss more work, they were seated almost immediately. Arthur examined the doctor’s face, to try and determine the kind of news he’d get. But he couldn’t really decipher was the doctor was thinking. He seemed confused and nervous. He looked at Arthur. “I don’t quite know how to say this, but you’re…pregnant.”
“And you’re drunk.” Arthur retorted.
“I can assure you I am not.” Dr. Emerson replied.
“You clearly are. Either that or you’re playing some kind of joke. There’s no possible way I can be pregnant. I’m a man.”
“Dr. Emerson, we have been coming to you for years. And you’ve generally been a very competent doctor. But if you expect us to believe this, I will have no trouble ceasing our dealings with you and seeking help elsewhere.” Uther decreed.
“I know this seems more than a little odd,” Dr. Emerson started.
“Odd?” Arthur cried incredulously.
“But it is possible. You are aware that there have been a few reported cases of male pregnancies.”
“Yes, I’ve heard of such things.” Uther explained. “But those are cases having to do with magic.” Uther practically shuddered when he said the word “magic.”
“That is correct.”
Uther went on. “And women can’t get men pregnant. Only men. While I know my son has had questionable dealings with people who claim to practice magic. I can assure you my son does not have dalliances with men.”
Arthur looked down, trying to see if he dug his chin hard enough into his chest if he could disappear. He could feel Dr. Emerson and his father’s gaze on him. He couldn’t look at his father, so he turned to the doctor. “There has been one…man. But he doesn’t have magic. The only person I know who has magic, or claims to anyway, is…Ganieda.” Merlin’s twin. Perhaps getting to know each other before having sex really would have been for the best.
“We ran the test several times and I can assure you that you are indeed pregnant.” Arthur sat back and stared at the ceiling too stunned to speak. “Dr. Emerson continued, “I understand that you’re having trouble processing this information and I don’t want to overwhelm you even further, but there are a lot of things to consider now.”
Uther sat up straighter and squared his shoulders, trying to put his shock aside. “What possible questions are there to consider?”
“Well, I wasn’t sure if Arthur wanted to proceed with the treatment as scheduled-
“Of course he does.” Uther interrupted.
“In female patients who have cancer and become pregnant we advise against radiation because it can be very harmful to the baby.”
“I don’t understand. You said it yourself that the chemo wasn’t working and Arthur’s best chance was radiation.”
“I understand that. But Arthur still has other options. There are many experimental drugs that are showing promise or we could try a different cocktail of drugs and give the chemotherapy another chance.” Gaius explained.
“And would any of those options work as well as the radiation?” Uther asked plainly.
“The chances are slightly less-
“Then there is no other option. Arthur simply has to terminate this pregnancy.”
Arthur had only been half listening, trying to process this news, but upon Uther’s last statement, he swiftly looked at his father. He tried to speak, but when Uther fixed his stare upon him, he couldn’t formulate a response.
Gaius looked extremely uncomfortable and kept throwing Arthur sympathetic glances. He cleared his throat and while addressing Uther, looked straight at Arthur. “With all due respect Mr. Pendragon that should be Arthur’s decision.”
Arthur felt like he was about to start hyperventilating. He didn’t know what to do. Uther turned to him. He couldn’t make eye contact, but tried to put on a face of concern. “Arthur, despite the perversions that got you to this moment,” Arthur flinched at that comment, “I am trying to keep your best interests in mind.”
Arthur closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “I can’t have a baby. I’d like to schedule whatever it takes to take care of the situation.”
~*~
They had made an appointment for an abortion later in the week. Arthur found that he couldn’t say the word abortion and tried to put the whole thing out of his mind, which was next to impossible. He avoided Gwaine, Ganieda, and especially Merlin, at all costs. He felt horrible for not informing Merlin of the situation. But he tried to absolve his guilt by saying it was his body, his life, his decision. He partially blamed Merlin as well, if only he’d told him about his magic. Arthur doubted it would have changed a single thing, but being angrier at Merlin was a lot easier at the moment.
He found himself constantly touching his stomach and examining it in the mirror. It was too early to feel anything or see anything, but just knowing there was a life growing inside him freaked him out, and also fascinated him. He was constantly looking up information online, trying to see how big the baby and how it was developing. So much of him was sure of his decision. The best chance he had at surviving was the treatment. He couldn’t do that and keep the baby. His mother died after giving birth to him. She had never even laid eyes on him. Could he really make his own child go through that same aching misery?
The day before the procedure, Lance came over to check on Arthur like he always did. Lance wasn’t the most talkative person, but his mere presence usually calmed Arthur and made him feel better. As Lance was about to leave, Arthur asked him to stay. He looked the door to his bedroom and looked at Lancelot solemnly. “I need you to promise that whatever is said here stays in this room.”
Lancelot backed away somewhat apprehensively. “Arthur, your feelings are very flattering. And while I think you are a very attractive man-
Arthur rolled his eyes. “I’m not hitting on you, Lance. I’ve got enough problems without Guinevere clawing my eyes out.” Lance chuckled and sat down on the bed and Arthur sat next to him. “May I ask you a hypothetical question?” Lance nodded. “If you had a patient who had cancer and discovered she was pregnant, would you advise her to continue seeking treatment despite the potential harm to the baby?”
Lancelot sighed. “It would depend on the situation. Not all forms of treatment would be harmful to the child. Chemotherapy could be risky, but is less so during the second and third trimesters. Ultimately, it would be the patient’s decision how best to proceed with treatment.”
Arthur groaned; that wasn’t the answer he was looking for. He decided to just lay it all out there. “Lancelot, have you ever heard of a man getting pregnant.”
Lance pursed his lips, thinking. “There have been a few rare cases that I’ve read about. Most of the time it involves magic. It’s really fascinating.”
“Then you should find this news rather interesting. I’m pregnant.”
Lancelot just stared at him. “I’m sorry, what?”
“I’m pregnant. I had sex with Ganieda’s twin brother. Apparently, Ganieda really did have magic all this time.” Arthur explained.
“We always knew that, Arthur.” Lancelot smiled. “I don’t know why you never believed her.”
“It was a little hard to believe without proof.” Arthur touched his stomach. “I have all the proof I need now.”
“What are you going to do?” Lance asked softly.
“Well, the treatment would be very harmful to the baby, and if I don’t have the treatment my chances of survival lessen. So I’m-I’m not having it.” Arthur fought the urge to look down and looked back at Lance, awaiting the judgment he was sure was coming. But Lance just squeezed his hand.
“No one can blame you for wanting to save your own life, Arthur. You don’t have anything to feel guilty about.”
“But I do. I haven’t even told Merlin about the baby.”
Lancelot did frown at that bit of news. “I think you should tell him. But I’m not going to tell you what to do.”
“But I want you to.” Arthur said desperately. “I don’t know what to do. In every way, I think it makes sense to not go through with this. But I just - I don’t feel comfortable with this. I can’t figure out what the best decision is. I feel there is no way this situation doesn’t end badly.”
“I know you’re going to want to kill me for saying something so cliché, but the only thing you can do is listen to your heart.” He picked up a baby book that Arthur had done a poor job of trying to hide. “I have a feeling you may already know what that is.”
~*~
Arthur came down the stairs the next morning and found Uther barking orders at their newest butler, George. “If you think you can manage not to muck it up, bring the car around.”
Arthur interrupted. “That won’t be necessary, George. I need to talk to my father privately.”
George looked between the two like a deer caught in the headlights. Uther looked at Arthur appraisingly and nodded for George to go away. “What are you doing, Arthur? We have to leave for your appointment soon.”
“I have something important to tell you.” Arthur took a deep breath. “I’m still going to see Dr. Emerson, but I’m not having an abortion. He’s agreed to do an ultrasound and make sure everything is going well the baby. I’m going to have it.”
“You’re going to have it?” Uther repeated incredulously.
“Yes.”
Uther shook his head slowly. He was a lot calmer than Arthur thought he would be. “I will have his head for this. Dr. Emerson will not get away with filling your head with foolishness. I’m going to sue him for everything he’s worth.”
Of course, when all else failed, sue. That was his father’s go to method of controlling everything around him. “Dr. Emerson didn’t do anything wrong. The only thing he’s done is be supportive of my decision.”
“He’s sanctioning suicide, is what he’s doing. You’re going to kill yourself, Arthur and I will not allow it.” Uther slammed his briefcase down.
“Father, you can sue Dr. Emerson if you want. But you won’t win. Dr. Emerson is loved and respected in this town, while you are-
“What?”
Arthur sighed. Uther was well aware of his reputation. He was a struggling, young attorney who many believed married his mother for her money. Ygraine came from an extremely wealthy family who were very well-respected and loved despite being lawyers. Ygraine and her family weren’t the kind of lawyers who took on cases simply to make a profit. They had their share of high-priced clients, but they also did a lot of charity work and took on pro bono clients. After Ygraine’s father died, he left the business to her and she in turn left it to Uther upon her death. Uther did nothing to help his reputation by quickly changing the firm to suit his ambition. He worked strictly on criminal cases for the most disreputable people imaginable and he wasn’t above dirty tricks to succeed.
Challenging his father like this was not going to get him anywhere, so he decided to change tactics. “Did you know that at six weeks a baby’s eyes start to develop?”
Uther looked momentarily caught off guard. “Just what on Earth are you talking about?”
“I’ve been reading some baby books and doing research on-line. A baby’s eyes start to develop at the sixth week. . It’s the only thing I can think about. The only thing I can see. I picture it looking up at me with these gorgeous blue eyes. And I want that moment, father. I want this child more than anything.”
“More than your own life?”
Arthur sighed. “We don’t know that I’ll die. I could survive.”
“And what if you don’t?” Uther stalked over to Arthur and looked down at him. “You, more than anyone, know what it’s like to lose a parent all too soon. Do you want to do that to your child?”
“Growing up without my mother has been terrible. I never even met her, but I miss her all the time. But I do take some comfort in knowing that she loved me. And I believe with all my heart, that she would make the same decision if she were in my place, if she knew what would happen to her.”
Uther turned around. “And I believe with all my heart that you are being a selfish fool. If you expect me to stand by and watch my son die, so he can give birth to some thing-
Arthur clenched his fists. “Don’t call it that. It’s not a thing. It’ll be your grandchild.”
“A child with two fathers is bad enough. But a child born of magic,” he spit out. “I will not have anything to do with it.”
Arthur took a shaky step back. He didn’t realize Uther’s hatred of magic ran so deep. “How dare you look down on people with magic considering the murderers and rapists you deal with on a daily basis.”
“I’d be careful how you judge those people. It’s because of those clients that I’ve been able to provide you this life of privilege. If it weren’t for them I wouldn’t have been able to afford the care that you’ve received. I’ve done everything I can to help you. If you think you know better than me, you need to leave this house.”
Uther’s stony face was all the proof Arthur needed that Uther meant every word. Arthur was unsure of what to do. He trembled with rage and fear. But he refused to let Uther see him crumble. “If that is what you wish, I’ll leave tonight.” And with that he marched out of the room and out of the only home he’d ever known.
~*~
In his anger, Arthur decided he needed to vent his anger and decided he knew the perfect recipient of his rage. That was how he found himself banging on Ganieda and Gwaine’s door. He was searching through his pockets for his key when Merlin threw open the door. When he saw Arthur he started to smile, “Well, long time no-
“You have magic!” Arthur declared.
“Yes.” Merlin said simply, not looking surprised by Arthur’s declaration.
Arthur stormed passed him into the house. He whirled around to face Merlin. “You didn’t think that was important to mention?”
Merlin shrugged. “It never really came up. And I kind of thought that you already knew. Ganieda has magic and I am her twin.”
“I never really thought she had actual magic. There was never any real proof. Her predictions don’t always come true.”
“It’s not like she can just call up a vision at will. She can’t control when they come.” Merlin defended his sister. “Besides, she can’t control what people do. Things are never-
“Set in stone. Yes, I know. That is beside the point. Why didn’t you tell me you had magic before we had sex?
“Why would I have? What would it have changed?”
“Men who have sex with…wizards?” Arthur raised his eyebrow in thought, knowing that probably wasn’t the right word.
“The proper term would probably be warlock.” Merlin supplied.
“Warlock. Fine. Men who have sex with warlocks can get pregnant.”
Merlin rolled his eyes. “That’s a stupid myth.”
“Oh really?” Arthur crosses his arms in front of his chest. “I suppose that’s why I’m six weeks pregnant.”
Merlin burst out laughing. “Sure, you are prat.” He laughed again, but as he saw the look on Arthur’s face his laughter died. “I’m sorry, what?”
“Knocked up. Up the duff. With child. I…AM…PREGNANT!”
Merlin sat down heavily on the spot. “Bloody hell.”
Arthur looked at Merlin’s sweet, confused, and clearly terrified, face and felt his anger fade. He sat down next to Merlin. “Just one of the many things I’ve said the last few days.”
Merlin looked at him. “How long have you known?”
“Almost a week.” Arthur looked down and wrung his hands. “And you’re going to hate me, but I decided that I was going to terminate the pregnancy.”
Merlin’s eyes doubled in size. “What? Without even telling me? Don’t you think I had a right to know?”
“I know. I’m sorry but I was so afraid and I didn’t know what to do. I knew the risks and I was scared.”
“What risks?” Merlin asked anxiously.
“I was supposed to start treatment this week, but the radiation used would have been extremely harmful to the baby. But without the treatment, the chances of beating the cancer weaken considerably.”
“Oh.” Merlin said. “I understand why you didn’t tell me now. I still wish you would have talked to me first, but I’m glad you’re telling me now. I can’t ask you to give up your life.”
“You don’t have to. I’ve decided that I want this baby. Our baby.”
“Our baby,” Merlin mouthed silently. He put his head between his knees. He looked back up at Arthur after a moment. “Are you sure about this, Arthur? What are you going to do for treatment?”
“My doctor has said that he can get me into a study for an experimental drug that has been successful with my type and stage of cancer. There’s always the possibility I can try chemo during my third trimester. It’s not as risky as doing it during the third trimester, but it’s still a risk and I don’t know if I want to risk doing any harm to the baby.” He smiled at Merlin. “I asked for another miracle Merlin and I got it. I am not throwing it away again.”
Merlin turned to Arthur and gently stroked his cheek. “I couldn’t think of anyone better to have a baby with.”
Arthur smiled. “Before we get all soppy, we need to talk about something important.” Merlin nodded and squeezed Arthur’s hand. “I really want this baby, but it’s not just going to change my life. Nothing’s ever going to be the same, Merlin. And if I die, you could become a single father? Do you think you could handle that?”
Merlin took a deep breath. “Honestly, I don’t know. The thought of having a baby, sharing it with someone else, is scary enough. To do it by myself, I don’t know. I can only say that I will try my best and love our baby the best I can.”
Arthur nodded. “That’s all I can ask for now.”
Merlin put his arm around Arthur and Arthur rested his head against Merlin’s shoulder. ‘Arthur, I want you to know that if I had known what would happen by not wearing a condom, I would have been more careful.”
“I know. This isn’t exactly the ideal situation, but I don’t regret that night.”
Merlin smiled. “Oh, and I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about my magic. I really thought you knew. I really don’t like talking about it. People get weird and act like I’m some magic genie that can grant them anything they want.”
“You probably thought I’d ask you to heal me.” Arthur said.
Merlin lifted Arthur’s head to look at him. “You didn’t have to ask. I tried to that first night, but it didn’t work. My healing powers aren’t very good. It didn’t work with my mother, either.”
Arthur nodded. “Thank you for trying.” He suddenly grinned mischievously. “I don’t want you to think I’m trying to turn you into a genie, but is there anything magical you can show me?”
Merlin laughed. He got up and looked around the room. “So you want a magic display?”
“Just something simple.”
Merlin grinned. “Something simple…” Arthur gasped a little when Merlin stared at him and his eyes took on a golden light. After a few seconds, Arthur was surprised when his pants suddenly came down. He looked down at his naked thighs, while Merlin laughed. “Simple enough?”
Arthur shook his head. “You have a one track mind.” Merlin just laughed. Arthur pulled up his pants. “I have a couple of favors to ask.”
“My, my, you impregnate a man and suddenly he’s so demanding.” Merlin teased.
Arthur just rolled his eyes. “I want you to document this pregnancy, every moment you can when I cross things off the list, doctor’s appointments, mood swings, everything. If you want to make it into a documentary, you can. But I mainly just want something for the baby to have…in case.”
Merlin sighed. “I’ll do it. But you have to try and promise me something?”
“What?”
“I don’t want you to act like your death is already pre-determined. I refuse to think that way and I don’t want you to either.”
Arthur worried his lip. “I don’t want to think the worst, but we have to be realistic.”
“That’s fine. But please don’t start making your good-byes already.” Merlin pleaded.
“Alright, I’ll try not to think the worst all the time. I promise.”
Arthur was awarded with a smile that the stars would be jealous of. “Good. And now what was the second favor.”
“Well, I seem to be without a home…”
~*~
And that was how Arthur found himself moving in with Gwaine, Ganieda, and Merlin. It definitely took some getting used to. After being reminded countless times, Gwaine finally remembered to stop eating breakfast without pants on after two weeks. Merlin had gone with Arthur to get his first ultrasound the first day Arthur told him about the pregnancy (both of them were too astounded to speak when they heard the baby’s heartbeat for the first time and didn’t say anything the whole way home) and had been to every doctor appointment Arthur had, including the date the doctor had told them the baby’s due date, which was November 4. They had decided to stay with Dr. Emerson, not just because he’d been Arthur’s doctor for years, but also because Dr. Emerson had dealt with a couple of magical pregnancies and births before and explained it could get complicated.
Arthur had started his new drugs, which he had been assured would not harm the baby. He hadn’t really noticed any side effects yet. He had the traditional morning sickness and tiredness. Arthur found that the advantage to having cancer was that he was so used to the nausea and fatigue that it didn’t really affect his mood anymore. True to his word, Merlin was there to document every disgusting bit of this process.
“For fuck’s sake!” Some side effects though, weren’t so welcome.
Merlin came barreling into Arthur’s room after hearing Arthur’s screeching. “What’s going on?”
Arthur quickly shut his bathroom door. “Nothing. Go back to your room.”
Merlin stood patiently by the door. “Arthur, I’m not going anywhere. You wouldn’t scream like that unless something was wrong.”
“It’s silly.”
“If it’s silly, it shouldn’t be a problem to tell me about it then.
Arthur didn’t say anything for a long time; slowly he opened the door keeping him hidden from view. “I think I’m starting to become deformed.”
Merlin gaped at Arthur. “What are you talking about?”
“I’m growing...breasts.” Arthur whispered the last word.
Merlin blinked. “What?”
Arthur came out from behind the door. Merlin tried valiantly to stifle his laughter. Arthur’s once firm, sculpted pecs were now sagging a bit and definitely larger than they once were. “I know that I’m pregnant, but I didn’t think I’d actually start turning into a woman.” He turned to Merlin. “Can’t you....magic them away?
Merlin laughed loudly. “I don’t think so. You know what this means, right?”
“What?” Arthur braced himself for what Merlin was about to say next.
“I think someone’s ready for his training bra. I’m thinking B cup.” Arthur glared at him. Merlin cocked his head to the side and stared at Arthur’s chest. “You haven’t started leaking, have you?”
“Leaking?! That’s not going to happen...right. I’m not going to be breast feeding.” He furrowed his brow. “At least I don’t think so. Bugger! I’m going to call Dr. Emerson.” Arthur rushed out of the room, leaving a laughing Merlin behind.
Part 3
Author/Artist:
geekslavePairing(s): Arthur/Merlin, Ganieda (OFC)/Gwaine, Lancelot/Gwen
Characters: Merlin, Arthur, Gwaine, Ganieda (OFC), Gwen, Lancelot, Gaius, Uther, Kilgarrah
Word Count: 35,554
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Just before receiving vital treatment for cancer, Arthur meets Merlin and his life is turned upside down when one night with Merlin results in an unforeseen pregnancy. To protect the baby, Arthur refuses the treatment.
Disclaimer: Merlin characters are the property of Shine and BBC. No profit is being made and no copyright infringement is intended.
Warnings: Mpreg, angst, lots of talk of cancer, fluff.
Notes: Written for the
merlinmpreg fest. Special thanks to my beta dustfinger223. I'm not a doctor just play one while writing fic. :) I did a lot of research, but I'm sure I didn't get everything right.Part 1
When the doctor, Gaius Emerson, arrived, he helped Uther rouse Arthur and decided to take more blood tests after Arthur explained some of his new symptoms. Arthur hated having to wait one more day to get the treatment started. Living in limbo like this was clearly taking its toll on him. When Arthur and Uther arrived the next day, Uther being a little upset that he had to miss more work, they were seated almost immediately. Arthur examined the doctor’s face, to try and determine the kind of news he’d get. But he couldn’t really decipher was the doctor was thinking. He seemed confused and nervous. He looked at Arthur. “I don’t quite know how to say this, but you’re…pregnant.”
“And you’re drunk.” Arthur retorted.
“I can assure you I am not.” Dr. Emerson replied.
“You clearly are. Either that or you’re playing some kind of joke. There’s no possible way I can be pregnant. I’m a man.”
“Dr. Emerson, we have been coming to you for years. And you’ve generally been a very competent doctor. But if you expect us to believe this, I will have no trouble ceasing our dealings with you and seeking help elsewhere.” Uther decreed.
“I know this seems more than a little odd,” Dr. Emerson started.
“Odd?” Arthur cried incredulously.
“But it is possible. You are aware that there have been a few reported cases of male pregnancies.”
“Yes, I’ve heard of such things.” Uther explained. “But those are cases having to do with magic.” Uther practically shuddered when he said the word “magic.”
“That is correct.”
Uther went on. “And women can’t get men pregnant. Only men. While I know my son has had questionable dealings with people who claim to practice magic. I can assure you my son does not have dalliances with men.”
Arthur looked down, trying to see if he dug his chin hard enough into his chest if he could disappear. He could feel Dr. Emerson and his father’s gaze on him. He couldn’t look at his father, so he turned to the doctor. “There has been one…man. But he doesn’t have magic. The only person I know who has magic, or claims to anyway, is…Ganieda.” Merlin’s twin. Perhaps getting to know each other before having sex really would have been for the best.
“We ran the test several times and I can assure you that you are indeed pregnant.” Arthur sat back and stared at the ceiling too stunned to speak. “Dr. Emerson continued, “I understand that you’re having trouble processing this information and I don’t want to overwhelm you even further, but there are a lot of things to consider now.”
Uther sat up straighter and squared his shoulders, trying to put his shock aside. “What possible questions are there to consider?”
“Well, I wasn’t sure if Arthur wanted to proceed with the treatment as scheduled-
“Of course he does.” Uther interrupted.
“In female patients who have cancer and become pregnant we advise against radiation because it can be very harmful to the baby.”
“I don’t understand. You said it yourself that the chemo wasn’t working and Arthur’s best chance was radiation.”
“I understand that. But Arthur still has other options. There are many experimental drugs that are showing promise or we could try a different cocktail of drugs and give the chemotherapy another chance.” Gaius explained.
“And would any of those options work as well as the radiation?” Uther asked plainly.
“The chances are slightly less-
“Then there is no other option. Arthur simply has to terminate this pregnancy.”
Arthur had only been half listening, trying to process this news, but upon Uther’s last statement, he swiftly looked at his father. He tried to speak, but when Uther fixed his stare upon him, he couldn’t formulate a response.
Gaius looked extremely uncomfortable and kept throwing Arthur sympathetic glances. He cleared his throat and while addressing Uther, looked straight at Arthur. “With all due respect Mr. Pendragon that should be Arthur’s decision.”
Arthur felt like he was about to start hyperventilating. He didn’t know what to do. Uther turned to him. He couldn’t make eye contact, but tried to put on a face of concern. “Arthur, despite the perversions that got you to this moment,” Arthur flinched at that comment, “I am trying to keep your best interests in mind.”
Arthur closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “I can’t have a baby. I’d like to schedule whatever it takes to take care of the situation.”
~*~
They had made an appointment for an abortion later in the week. Arthur found that he couldn’t say the word abortion and tried to put the whole thing out of his mind, which was next to impossible. He avoided Gwaine, Ganieda, and especially Merlin, at all costs. He felt horrible for not informing Merlin of the situation. But he tried to absolve his guilt by saying it was his body, his life, his decision. He partially blamed Merlin as well, if only he’d told him about his magic. Arthur doubted it would have changed a single thing, but being angrier at Merlin was a lot easier at the moment.
He found himself constantly touching his stomach and examining it in the mirror. It was too early to feel anything or see anything, but just knowing there was a life growing inside him freaked him out, and also fascinated him. He was constantly looking up information online, trying to see how big the baby and how it was developing. So much of him was sure of his decision. The best chance he had at surviving was the treatment. He couldn’t do that and keep the baby. His mother died after giving birth to him. She had never even laid eyes on him. Could he really make his own child go through that same aching misery?
The day before the procedure, Lance came over to check on Arthur like he always did. Lance wasn’t the most talkative person, but his mere presence usually calmed Arthur and made him feel better. As Lance was about to leave, Arthur asked him to stay. He looked the door to his bedroom and looked at Lancelot solemnly. “I need you to promise that whatever is said here stays in this room.”
Lancelot backed away somewhat apprehensively. “Arthur, your feelings are very flattering. And while I think you are a very attractive man-
Arthur rolled his eyes. “I’m not hitting on you, Lance. I’ve got enough problems without Guinevere clawing my eyes out.” Lance chuckled and sat down on the bed and Arthur sat next to him. “May I ask you a hypothetical question?” Lance nodded. “If you had a patient who had cancer and discovered she was pregnant, would you advise her to continue seeking treatment despite the potential harm to the baby?”
Lancelot sighed. “It would depend on the situation. Not all forms of treatment would be harmful to the child. Chemotherapy could be risky, but is less so during the second and third trimesters. Ultimately, it would be the patient’s decision how best to proceed with treatment.”
Arthur groaned; that wasn’t the answer he was looking for. He decided to just lay it all out there. “Lancelot, have you ever heard of a man getting pregnant.”
Lance pursed his lips, thinking. “There have been a few rare cases that I’ve read about. Most of the time it involves magic. It’s really fascinating.”
“Then you should find this news rather interesting. I’m pregnant.”
Lancelot just stared at him. “I’m sorry, what?”
“I’m pregnant. I had sex with Ganieda’s twin brother. Apparently, Ganieda really did have magic all this time.” Arthur explained.
“We always knew that, Arthur.” Lancelot smiled. “I don’t know why you never believed her.”
“It was a little hard to believe without proof.” Arthur touched his stomach. “I have all the proof I need now.”
“What are you going to do?” Lance asked softly.
“Well, the treatment would be very harmful to the baby, and if I don’t have the treatment my chances of survival lessen. So I’m-I’m not having it.” Arthur fought the urge to look down and looked back at Lance, awaiting the judgment he was sure was coming. But Lance just squeezed his hand.
“No one can blame you for wanting to save your own life, Arthur. You don’t have anything to feel guilty about.”
“But I do. I haven’t even told Merlin about the baby.”
Lancelot did frown at that bit of news. “I think you should tell him. But I’m not going to tell you what to do.”
“But I want you to.” Arthur said desperately. “I don’t know what to do. In every way, I think it makes sense to not go through with this. But I just - I don’t feel comfortable with this. I can’t figure out what the best decision is. I feel there is no way this situation doesn’t end badly.”
“I know you’re going to want to kill me for saying something so cliché, but the only thing you can do is listen to your heart.” He picked up a baby book that Arthur had done a poor job of trying to hide. “I have a feeling you may already know what that is.”
~*~
Arthur came down the stairs the next morning and found Uther barking orders at their newest butler, George. “If you think you can manage not to muck it up, bring the car around.”
Arthur interrupted. “That won’t be necessary, George. I need to talk to my father privately.”
George looked between the two like a deer caught in the headlights. Uther looked at Arthur appraisingly and nodded for George to go away. “What are you doing, Arthur? We have to leave for your appointment soon.”
“I have something important to tell you.” Arthur took a deep breath. “I’m still going to see Dr. Emerson, but I’m not having an abortion. He’s agreed to do an ultrasound and make sure everything is going well the baby. I’m going to have it.”
“You’re going to have it?” Uther repeated incredulously.
“Yes.”
Uther shook his head slowly. He was a lot calmer than Arthur thought he would be. “I will have his head for this. Dr. Emerson will not get away with filling your head with foolishness. I’m going to sue him for everything he’s worth.”
Of course, when all else failed, sue. That was his father’s go to method of controlling everything around him. “Dr. Emerson didn’t do anything wrong. The only thing he’s done is be supportive of my decision.”
“He’s sanctioning suicide, is what he’s doing. You’re going to kill yourself, Arthur and I will not allow it.” Uther slammed his briefcase down.
“Father, you can sue Dr. Emerson if you want. But you won’t win. Dr. Emerson is loved and respected in this town, while you are-
“What?”
Arthur sighed. Uther was well aware of his reputation. He was a struggling, young attorney who many believed married his mother for her money. Ygraine came from an extremely wealthy family who were very well-respected and loved despite being lawyers. Ygraine and her family weren’t the kind of lawyers who took on cases simply to make a profit. They had their share of high-priced clients, but they also did a lot of charity work and took on pro bono clients. After Ygraine’s father died, he left the business to her and she in turn left it to Uther upon her death. Uther did nothing to help his reputation by quickly changing the firm to suit his ambition. He worked strictly on criminal cases for the most disreputable people imaginable and he wasn’t above dirty tricks to succeed.
Challenging his father like this was not going to get him anywhere, so he decided to change tactics. “Did you know that at six weeks a baby’s eyes start to develop?”
Uther looked momentarily caught off guard. “Just what on Earth are you talking about?”
“I’ve been reading some baby books and doing research on-line. A baby’s eyes start to develop at the sixth week. . It’s the only thing I can think about. The only thing I can see. I picture it looking up at me with these gorgeous blue eyes. And I want that moment, father. I want this child more than anything.”
“More than your own life?”
Arthur sighed. “We don’t know that I’ll die. I could survive.”
“And what if you don’t?” Uther stalked over to Arthur and looked down at him. “You, more than anyone, know what it’s like to lose a parent all too soon. Do you want to do that to your child?”
“Growing up without my mother has been terrible. I never even met her, but I miss her all the time. But I do take some comfort in knowing that she loved me. And I believe with all my heart, that she would make the same decision if she were in my place, if she knew what would happen to her.”
Uther turned around. “And I believe with all my heart that you are being a selfish fool. If you expect me to stand by and watch my son die, so he can give birth to some thing-
Arthur clenched his fists. “Don’t call it that. It’s not a thing. It’ll be your grandchild.”
“A child with two fathers is bad enough. But a child born of magic,” he spit out. “I will not have anything to do with it.”
Arthur took a shaky step back. He didn’t realize Uther’s hatred of magic ran so deep. “How dare you look down on people with magic considering the murderers and rapists you deal with on a daily basis.”
“I’d be careful how you judge those people. It’s because of those clients that I’ve been able to provide you this life of privilege. If it weren’t for them I wouldn’t have been able to afford the care that you’ve received. I’ve done everything I can to help you. If you think you know better than me, you need to leave this house.”
Uther’s stony face was all the proof Arthur needed that Uther meant every word. Arthur was unsure of what to do. He trembled with rage and fear. But he refused to let Uther see him crumble. “If that is what you wish, I’ll leave tonight.” And with that he marched out of the room and out of the only home he’d ever known.
~*~
In his anger, Arthur decided he needed to vent his anger and decided he knew the perfect recipient of his rage. That was how he found himself banging on Ganieda and Gwaine’s door. He was searching through his pockets for his key when Merlin threw open the door. When he saw Arthur he started to smile, “Well, long time no-
“You have magic!” Arthur declared.
“Yes.” Merlin said simply, not looking surprised by Arthur’s declaration.
Arthur stormed passed him into the house. He whirled around to face Merlin. “You didn’t think that was important to mention?”
Merlin shrugged. “It never really came up. And I kind of thought that you already knew. Ganieda has magic and I am her twin.”
“I never really thought she had actual magic. There was never any real proof. Her predictions don’t always come true.”
“It’s not like she can just call up a vision at will. She can’t control when they come.” Merlin defended his sister. “Besides, she can’t control what people do. Things are never-
“Set in stone. Yes, I know. That is beside the point. Why didn’t you tell me you had magic before we had sex?
“Why would I have? What would it have changed?”
“Men who have sex with…wizards?” Arthur raised his eyebrow in thought, knowing that probably wasn’t the right word.
“The proper term would probably be warlock.” Merlin supplied.
“Warlock. Fine. Men who have sex with warlocks can get pregnant.”
Merlin rolled his eyes. “That’s a stupid myth.”
“Oh really?” Arthur crosses his arms in front of his chest. “I suppose that’s why I’m six weeks pregnant.”
Merlin burst out laughing. “Sure, you are prat.” He laughed again, but as he saw the look on Arthur’s face his laughter died. “I’m sorry, what?”
“Knocked up. Up the duff. With child. I…AM…PREGNANT!”
Merlin sat down heavily on the spot. “Bloody hell.”
Arthur looked at Merlin’s sweet, confused, and clearly terrified, face and felt his anger fade. He sat down next to Merlin. “Just one of the many things I’ve said the last few days.”
Merlin looked at him. “How long have you known?”
“Almost a week.” Arthur looked down and wrung his hands. “And you’re going to hate me, but I decided that I was going to terminate the pregnancy.”
Merlin’s eyes doubled in size. “What? Without even telling me? Don’t you think I had a right to know?”
“I know. I’m sorry but I was so afraid and I didn’t know what to do. I knew the risks and I was scared.”
“What risks?” Merlin asked anxiously.
“I was supposed to start treatment this week, but the radiation used would have been extremely harmful to the baby. But without the treatment, the chances of beating the cancer weaken considerably.”
“Oh.” Merlin said. “I understand why you didn’t tell me now. I still wish you would have talked to me first, but I’m glad you’re telling me now. I can’t ask you to give up your life.”
“You don’t have to. I’ve decided that I want this baby. Our baby.”
“Our baby,” Merlin mouthed silently. He put his head between his knees. He looked back up at Arthur after a moment. “Are you sure about this, Arthur? What are you going to do for treatment?”
“My doctor has said that he can get me into a study for an experimental drug that has been successful with my type and stage of cancer. There’s always the possibility I can try chemo during my third trimester. It’s not as risky as doing it during the third trimester, but it’s still a risk and I don’t know if I want to risk doing any harm to the baby.” He smiled at Merlin. “I asked for another miracle Merlin and I got it. I am not throwing it away again.”
Merlin turned to Arthur and gently stroked his cheek. “I couldn’t think of anyone better to have a baby with.”
Arthur smiled. “Before we get all soppy, we need to talk about something important.” Merlin nodded and squeezed Arthur’s hand. “I really want this baby, but it’s not just going to change my life. Nothing’s ever going to be the same, Merlin. And if I die, you could become a single father? Do you think you could handle that?”
Merlin took a deep breath. “Honestly, I don’t know. The thought of having a baby, sharing it with someone else, is scary enough. To do it by myself, I don’t know. I can only say that I will try my best and love our baby the best I can.”
Arthur nodded. “That’s all I can ask for now.”
Merlin put his arm around Arthur and Arthur rested his head against Merlin’s shoulder. ‘Arthur, I want you to know that if I had known what would happen by not wearing a condom, I would have been more careful.”
“I know. This isn’t exactly the ideal situation, but I don’t regret that night.”
Merlin smiled. “Oh, and I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about my magic. I really thought you knew. I really don’t like talking about it. People get weird and act like I’m some magic genie that can grant them anything they want.”
“You probably thought I’d ask you to heal me.” Arthur said.
Merlin lifted Arthur’s head to look at him. “You didn’t have to ask. I tried to that first night, but it didn’t work. My healing powers aren’t very good. It didn’t work with my mother, either.”
Arthur nodded. “Thank you for trying.” He suddenly grinned mischievously. “I don’t want you to think I’m trying to turn you into a genie, but is there anything magical you can show me?”
Merlin laughed. He got up and looked around the room. “So you want a magic display?”
“Just something simple.”
Merlin grinned. “Something simple…” Arthur gasped a little when Merlin stared at him and his eyes took on a golden light. After a few seconds, Arthur was surprised when his pants suddenly came down. He looked down at his naked thighs, while Merlin laughed. “Simple enough?”
Arthur shook his head. “You have a one track mind.” Merlin just laughed. Arthur pulled up his pants. “I have a couple of favors to ask.”
“My, my, you impregnate a man and suddenly he’s so demanding.” Merlin teased.
Arthur just rolled his eyes. “I want you to document this pregnancy, every moment you can when I cross things off the list, doctor’s appointments, mood swings, everything. If you want to make it into a documentary, you can. But I mainly just want something for the baby to have…in case.”
Merlin sighed. “I’ll do it. But you have to try and promise me something?”
“What?”
“I don’t want you to act like your death is already pre-determined. I refuse to think that way and I don’t want you to either.”
Arthur worried his lip. “I don’t want to think the worst, but we have to be realistic.”
“That’s fine. But please don’t start making your good-byes already.” Merlin pleaded.
“Alright, I’ll try not to think the worst all the time. I promise.”
Arthur was awarded with a smile that the stars would be jealous of. “Good. And now what was the second favor.”
“Well, I seem to be without a home…”
~*~
And that was how Arthur found himself moving in with Gwaine, Ganieda, and Merlin. It definitely took some getting used to. After being reminded countless times, Gwaine finally remembered to stop eating breakfast without pants on after two weeks. Merlin had gone with Arthur to get his first ultrasound the first day Arthur told him about the pregnancy (both of them were too astounded to speak when they heard the baby’s heartbeat for the first time and didn’t say anything the whole way home) and had been to every doctor appointment Arthur had, including the date the doctor had told them the baby’s due date, which was November 4. They had decided to stay with Dr. Emerson, not just because he’d been Arthur’s doctor for years, but also because Dr. Emerson had dealt with a couple of magical pregnancies and births before and explained it could get complicated.
Arthur had started his new drugs, which he had been assured would not harm the baby. He hadn’t really noticed any side effects yet. He had the traditional morning sickness and tiredness. Arthur found that the advantage to having cancer was that he was so used to the nausea and fatigue that it didn’t really affect his mood anymore. True to his word, Merlin was there to document every disgusting bit of this process.
“For fuck’s sake!” Some side effects though, weren’t so welcome.
Merlin came barreling into Arthur’s room after hearing Arthur’s screeching. “What’s going on?”
Arthur quickly shut his bathroom door. “Nothing. Go back to your room.”
Merlin stood patiently by the door. “Arthur, I’m not going anywhere. You wouldn’t scream like that unless something was wrong.”
“It’s silly.”
“If it’s silly, it shouldn’t be a problem to tell me about it then.
Arthur didn’t say anything for a long time; slowly he opened the door keeping him hidden from view. “I think I’m starting to become deformed.”
Merlin gaped at Arthur. “What are you talking about?”
“I’m growing...breasts.” Arthur whispered the last word.
Merlin blinked. “What?”
Arthur came out from behind the door. Merlin tried valiantly to stifle his laughter. Arthur’s once firm, sculpted pecs were now sagging a bit and definitely larger than they once were. “I know that I’m pregnant, but I didn’t think I’d actually start turning into a woman.” He turned to Merlin. “Can’t you....magic them away?
Merlin laughed loudly. “I don’t think so. You know what this means, right?”
“What?” Arthur braced himself for what Merlin was about to say next.
“I think someone’s ready for his training bra. I’m thinking B cup.” Arthur glared at him. Merlin cocked his head to the side and stared at Arthur’s chest. “You haven’t started leaking, have you?”
“Leaking?! That’s not going to happen...right. I’m not going to be breast feeding.” He furrowed his brow. “At least I don’t think so. Bugger! I’m going to call Dr. Emerson.” Arthur rushed out of the room, leaving a laughing Merlin behind.
Part 3
