Fic: That's What Servants Are For (Part 2)

[geeklover80]

Author/Artist/Vidder: GeekSlave
Title: That’s What Servants Are For
Pairing(s)/Character(s): Merlin/Arthur, original characters
Rating: R
Summary: When Arthur and Merlin head out of Camelot to the neighboring kingdom of Cambia, Arthur is more than a little surprised by some of their strange customs especially when one of those customs has him sharing a bed with Merlin. Now Arthur finds himself facing feelings for Merlin that he never knew he had. When he finally realizes the true extent of his feelings, it may be too late as another man makes a play for Merlin.
Warnings (if any): None
Total Word Count/Length: 15,334
Disclaimer: This story/artwork is based on characters and situations created and owned by the BBC and Shine TV. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Author's/Artist's/Vidder's notes (if any): Written for the merlin_muses fest!
Beta(s): Special thanks to my beta, greeneyes_fan who did very quick work. Thank you!


Part 1


For a trip he was initially dreading, Merlin found that he was having a splendid time in Cambia. All of the other servants were unfailingly nice and friendly. They explained some of the differences in how they did things there versus how they were done in Camelot.

It wasn’t just the servants who were welcoming to Merlin; the knights were just as fun as Arthur’s knights and treated Merlin like an equal. If Merlin didn’t know any better he suspected that Sir Gareth was actually flirting with him. He got the same feeling from Lord Kay as well. Lord Kay was even more obvious with his stares and compliments to Merlin. Merlin wasn’t used to that kind of attention.

He still had to keep his magic hidden, but it didn’t bother him as much here. He wasn’t constantly on edge and felt no real need to use it.

And now Arthur was finally starting to come around. Lord Kay must have had a better effect on Arthur than either of them would have thought. Arthur’s behavior after the feast was so different and it would have been startling if Merlin didn’t enjoy it so much. Merlin sincerely hoped that this could lead to long-term changes in their relationship.

Even the kitchen was different in Cambia. In Camelot the cook would rather gnaw of your hand then allow you to help her, but the cook here welcomed everyone’s assistance. Right now, Arthur was helping her prepare some bread by kneading the dough for her. Merlin heard someone walk in and was surprised when he saw Lord Kay walk toward him.

“Lord Kay! I’m surprised to see you here.”

“The kitchen is one of my favorite places in the castle. It smells incredible and as ruler of this land, I get to try anything I want.” Lord Kay smiled.

Merlin laughed. “You’re lucky you don’t live in Camelot. King or no King, no one gets anything from the cook.”

“I’ll make sure not to spend too much time in the Camelot kitchens then.”

“Are you and Arthur done for the day? I hope negotiations are going well.” Merlin turned the dough over and smoothed it out slowly with his hands.

Lord Kay nodded. “Things are going much better today. I don’t want to speak too soon, but I feel we may come to an amicable arrangement very soon.”

Merlin smiled. “That’s wonderful.”

“It is.” Lord Kay sighed.

Merlin looked up at him and saw that Lord Kay was frowning. “Is something troubling you?”

Lord Kay crossed his arms in front of his chest. “Reaching an agreement is best for both Camelot and Cambia, but I’ll be sad to see you and Arthur depart.”

“Trust me in two days you’ll be glad to see the back of Arthur’s head.” Merlin chuckled.

Lord Kay laughed. “He can be quite prickly can’t he?”

Merlin nodded. A fond smile spread on his face. He enjoyed teasing Arthur and joking about him, but he really wouldn’t change anything about him, a thought which surprised Merlin. “He can be quite…difficult.”

“Do you enjoy working for him?”

“For the most part.”

“And living in Camelot, how is that? I know things in Camelot can be quite contentious at times.”

Merlin pursed his lips. “Camelot does have its share of problems. There’s so much that I wish was different, but it’s my home now. I know that things can get better and I want to be there for that.”

Lord Kay nodded. “You’re very loyal.”

Merlin just shrugged awkwardly, looking away when he met Lord Kay’s eyes.

Lord Kay walked around the table and put his hand on Merlin’s shoulder. “You’re a remarkable man, Merlin. If Arthur doesn’t know what he has then he’s a fool.”


~*~


Arthur had a constant feeling lately of wanting to sit on his hands when he was around Merlin. His hands felt like they had minds of their own and were desperate to find any excuse to touch Merlin. He kept fidgeting and having to clench his fists. Merlin was in the middle of undressing him for the night and Arthur almost ran a hand through Merlin’s hair. They hadn’t talked about the previous night. Arthur just hoped that Merlin was clear on how Arthur felt about him. Arthur sighed. How could Merlin be clear on Arthur’s feelings for him when he wasn’t even clear on his feelings?

After Merlin lifted his shirt over his head, he looked down at Merlin. “What do you think of Lord Kay?”

Merlin shrugged. “I think he’s a very nice man.”

“That’s all – nice?”

Merlin laughed. He unlaced Arthur’s breeches. “What else do you want me to say?”

“You’ve talked to him quite a few times since we’ve been here. He speaks very highly of you. I thought you might have more to say than that he’s nice.”

Merlin walked to the bed and picked up Arthur’s white night shirt. Arthur raised his arms and Merlin slipped the shirt over Arthur’s head. Merlin’s chest grazed Arthur’s bare chest and Arthur dug his fingernails into his palm.

“All right. I think Lord Kay is a great man. All of the servants really love him. He treats them like equals and is very respectful. He’s brought peace and prosperity to Cambia. He’s warm and funny and…” Merlin trailed off.

“And?” Arthur prodded.

“And…” Merlin bit his lip. “He’s not displeasing to look at.”

“Not displeasing to look at? If you think he’s attractive Merlin, just say so.”

“I just didn’t want to give you the wrong idea.”

Arthur crossed his arms in front of his chest. “And what would that be?”

A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Merlin quickly helped Arthur into his trousers and practically ran to the door.

Lord Kay stepped and nodded at Arthur. “I’m sorry to disturb you.”

“It’s no trouble. What do you need?”

“Arthur, I was wondering if I might…borrow Merlin for the evening.”

Arthur’s brow furrowed. “Borrow?”

“Yes. John will be… attending to Sir Tor this evening and I think Merlin could be of assistance to me. You don’t need him do you, Arthur?” Lord Kay asked.

Arthur looked from Merlin to Lord Kay and back again. Merlin was watching Lord Kay with interest. Arthur closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened his eyes, he glared at Lord Kay. “Yes, I do need him.”

Lord Kay’s eyebrow rose.

“Arthur, you can manage without me for one night, can’t you?” Merlin added.

Arthur couldn’t read the expression on Lord Kay’s face. He couldn’t tell if he was upset or amused. Merlin looked at him with huge blue eyes that seemed to be imploring Arthur to give in to Lord Kay’s request. So he did.

Arthur sighed deeply. “I suppose I can manage for one night without Merlin.”

Lord Kay clapped his hands together and beamed with happiness. “Splendid. I’ll give him back to you with nary a scratch on him.” Lord Kay grinned.

Arthur gritted his teeth and forced a fake smile. “See that you do.”

Lord Kay beckoned to Merlin with his hand. “Shall we, Merlin?”

Merlin nodded. He followed Lord Kay. Before walking through the door, he looked back at Arthur. He gave him a brief smile.

Arthur threw his head back. Why did he say yes? He didn’t want Lord Kay around Merlin and certainly not alone with him. He could have said no and now Merlin was “attending” to Lord Kay. If Lord Kay tried anything with Merlin…Arthur sighed, there was nothing he could do now. He sat down on the bed. He just had to hope that Merlin wouldn’t allow anything to happen. Arthur fell back against the bed. He had a feeling he was in for another sleepless night.


~*~


Arthur turned over in bed. He was surprised when he was greeted with Merlin’s smiling face. “I thought you were with Lord Kay?”

Merlin reached out and caressed Arthur’s cheek. Arthur closed his eyes. “I was, but I couldn’t stand to be away from you, not for one more second. Did you miss me?” Merlin leaned forward, his mouth inches from Arthur’s.

Arthur nodded.

Merlin breathed heavily against Arthur’s mouth. “Do you want to kiss me?”

Arthur didn’t answer him. He lurched forward and devoured Merlin’s mouth. He climbed over Merlin, running his hands through Merlin’s hair.

Merlin moaned deeply into his mouth. Merlin pulled away slowly. He stared up into Arthur’s blown pupils. “Do you want to fuck me, Arthur?”

Arthur gasped awake. He sat up quickly and looked over and saw that Merlin was not there. He hadn’t come back all night. The room was eerily quiet. Arthur couldn’t hear any signs of life outside. Arthur stood up and began to pace. He had half a mind to go storming over to Lord Kay’s chambers but resisted. He took a few calming breaths. Negotiations with Lord Kay were so close to being finished, Arthur didn’t want to take any chances of ruining it. With all likelihood they could come to an agreement today and soon they could leave Cambia behind. The faster he separated Merlin and Lord Kay the better.


~*~

It wasn’t easy for Arthur to put Merlin out of his mind, the urge to question Lord Kay about last night insanely strong. But Arthur set those thoughts aside to concentrate on the business at hand. His decision paid off. As he hoped negotiations went well and they were able to come to an agreement that worked well for both of them. Lord Kay agreed that Camelot’s claim to the land had more merit as long as Arthur assured him that he would not forbid anyone access to the lands and that Cambia would be able to seek refuge there if there was any need. They would sign an official agreement after the tournament tomorrow. Arthur hoped to leave the next day after that.

Lord Kay smiled at Arthur and clapped him on the back. “I’m glad this matter is settled and we can now enjoy the tournament tomorrow without this matter hanging over our heads.”

Arthur nodded. “I agree. I’d hate for you to blame a lack of concentration when I win tomorrow.”

Lord Kay threw his head back and laughed. “You’re so competitive, Arthur. You always did hate to lose. I’ve never seen anyone so red-faced after I bested you last time.”

Arthur rolled his eyes. “I was fourteen, Kay and I was a very gracious loser.”

Lord Kay grinned. “Yes, you were.”

“I don’t plan on losing to you again.”

“You know what they say about plans, Arthur.”

Arthur tried to grin, but it was more of a grimace. He looked down and cleared his throat. “I should go and find my wayward servant.”

Arthur began to walk away and Lord Kay fell in step with him. “I’m surprised you haven’t asked me about last night.”

Arthur shrugged. “I assume everything went well.”

“Very well.”

Arthur’s step faltered and he scowled at Lord Kay. “What does that mean?”

Lord Kay waved his hands, trying to look innocent. “Nothing in particular. Merlin is a very good servant. He did everything I asked with no complaints. I’ll be sorry to see him go.”

Arthur scrutinized Lord Kay for a moment, before continuing to walk from the throne room. “I’m sure that Merlin will miss it here. He’s come to really admire you.”

“The feeling is mutual.” Lord Kay inhaled a breath and stopped Arthur with a hand to his arm. “I was thinking that perhaps Merlin didn’t have to leave.”

Arthur narrowed his eyes. “It would be very difficult for Merlin to serve me in Camelot if he never left here.”

“Perhaps you could find another servant.”

Arthur hugged his arms to his chest. “Why would I do that?”

Lord Kay bit his lip. “It just seems to me that Merlin is really enjoying the way things are here and after what he’s told me about his life in Camelot-”

Arthur interrupted Lord Kay. “What did he say? Is Merlin unhappy?”

Lord Kay wrinkled his nose. “I won’t tell you what he said. You’ll have to ask Merlin if you want to know. I can only say that from what I have gathered Merlin enjoys his work with you, but things in Camelot are very difficult and I think he would find it easier somewhere that was less…restrictive.”

Arthur looked down, running a hand across the back of his neck. He felt dizzy. This past week had opened his eyes to so much about Merlin. He knew that Merlin thought that he didn’t care about him, but he thought that overall Merlin was happy in Camelot. But if that wasn’t true…

“Arthur, if you were to give me Merlin-”

“Merlin is not mine to give. He’s not property.” Arthur gritted out.

Lord Kay shook his head. “Of course not. That wasn’t what I meant. If Merlin were to come and stay here, we would look after him. I promise. Ultimately, I just want Merlin to be happy. Talk to him and ask him how he feels, Arthur. That’s all I ask.”

Arthur closed his eyes for a moment. As soon as he felt he could walk again, he turned on his heel. “I’ll talk to him.” He said as he walked away.


~*~

Merlin thought hiding in the kitchen wasn’t the greatest idea. Lord Kay had found him in there once before, he could again. Mainly, Merlin wanted to avoid Arthur and he thought Arthur would be less likely to look for him in there.

Merlin put down the plate he was cleaning and rested his hands in the warm, soapy water. He tried not to think about last night, but he couldn’t get it out of his head. Lord Kay had kissed him! And he had kissed him back! What had he been thinking?

Merlin sighed deeply. He had been so caught off guard; he hadn’t known exactly what to do. And Lord Kay was a very handsome man who was clearly attracted to Merlin. For a moment, Merlin gave in to his curiosity but then an image of Arthur flashed in his head and he had pushed Lord Kay away. He had apologized profusely, but Lord Kay had waved off the apology. He had said Merlin had nothing to be sorry for. He truly didn’t seem upset in the slightest. Lord Kay didn’t touch him for the rest of the night. He was unfailingly polite, but Merlin had still felt awkward around him. He had left as fast as his legs could carry him when Lord Kay dismissed him. He had chosen not to go back to Arthur’s chambers and actually slept in the stables that night.

Merlin almost jumped ten feet in the air when his thoughts were interrupted by someone standing next to him. He looked over and sighed in relief when he saw John standing next to him. The boy joined Merlin and picked up a goblet and began to clean it. He turned to Merlin and smiled. “Hello, Merlin.”

Merlin nodded at him. “Hello.” Merlin removed his hands from the water and wiped them on a towel. “How was your evening?”

John pursed his lips slightly, his cheeks reddening. “It was very good.” He turned his gaze to Merlin. “How was yours?”

He chewed on his lips for a moment. “Lord Kay kissed me.” Merlin blurted out. His eyes widened immediately. He could not believe he just blurted that out.

John surprised Merlin by laughing. “I’m not surprised. Lord Kay has had his eye on you since you arrived. If King Arthur wasn’t going to take advantage, Kay certainly would.”

Merlin rubbed a hand across his face. “Wow, I thought you might be a bit jealous.”

John’s brow furrowed. “Why would I be jealous? I was with Sir Tor last night.” He grinned at Merlin. “I don’t belong to Lord Kay any more than he belongs to me.”

Merlin turned around and rested his hands against the sink. “I don’t know why, I just assumed that you loved Lord Kay.”

John shook his head. “I care about Lord Kay. I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t come to Cambia and had him welcome me the way that he did. But I am not in love with him. When the servants bed the noblemen, it’s not about love. It’s just a way for them to sate their desires.”

“And for you?”

John shrugged. “It’s fun.”

Merlin thought on that for a moment and twisted around. He began to clean again. “Were you at all scared the first time he made advances toward you?”

John shook his head, smirking a little. “I actually made advances toward him first.”

Merlin’s eyebrows shot up into his hairline. “Really?”

“Yes. It was very subtle. I knew the way things were done in Cambia, but I couldn’t be sure if Lord Kay wanted the same arrangement with me. He didn’t look at me the way he looks at you.”

Merlin blushed.

“I’d been his servant for a fortnight and he hadn’t touched me. I didn’t know how to ask what he wanted, so I thought I would find a way to see how he felt. I was bathing him one night and instead of the usual short and light touches, I let my hand linger every so often. Nothing too overt, but he knew what I was asking. And when I looked down between his legs, I had my answer about what he wanted.”

Merlin swallowed thickly.

“Lord Kay said afterwards that he had just wanted to be sure that I wanted it too.” John continued. He eyed Merlin for a second. “You might want to try that with King Arthur.”

Merlin’s head swiveled around. “Try what?”

“Do something like I did to see how he feels.”

Merlin let out a light chuckle. “I know how Arthur feels.”

“Are you sure?”

Merlin nodded slowly.

John coked his head to the side and stared at Merlin. “It may not be about love here in Cambia, but if Lord Kay looked at me the way Arthur looks at you…I’d be a very happy man.”

Merlin watched John turn back to the task of cleaning the plates. Merlin sighed. Perhaps John was onto something.


~*~

Arthur was tired and dirty. He’d taken a long ride on one of Lord Kay’s horses to clear his head. It didn’t work as he hoped. Now on top of being confused, he was dirty and tired and irritable. He hadn’t seen Merlin all day. He had no idea what he’d tell Merlin about Lord Kay’s offer when he did.

He opened the door to his chambers and spotted Merlin immediately. Merlin was standing in front of the small wooden tub; it was filled with steaming water. He turned around swiftly when he heard Arthur come in.

Arthur walked further into the room slowly. He couldn’t take his eyes off of Merlin. He pointed to the tub. “What’s this?”

“You haven’t forgotten what bathing is, have you?” Merlin teased. His tone was gentler than normal.

Arthur just stared at Merlin.

“John told me that you went for a ride. I thought you might want a bath when you got back.”

Arthur walked over to him. He stopped a few feet in front of Merlin. “Thank you, Merlin.”

Merlin stepped forward into Arthur’s personal space. He gently removed Arthur’s robe and Arthur helped him remove the chainmail. Merlin quickly worked on the laces of Arthur’s trousers. Once Arthur was fully undressed, Merlin led Arthur to the tub. Arthur slowly climbed into the tub and sank down. He sighed as he laid his head over the rim.

Merlin grabbed a flannel and soaked it in the water. Arthur closed his eyes. The sound of the water dripping as Merlin removed the flannel was soothing. Arthur felt Merlin moved right beside him. He opened his eyes and Merlin was hovering above him. Arthur sucked in a breath as Merlin slowly scrubbed the flannel down his chest. He repeated the motion. Arthur wasn’t sure if Merlin was doing this on purpose but his movements seemed slower and more methodical than usual. The combinations of Merlin’s strokes and his breath hot against his ear was making Arthur’s whole body tingle.

He licked his lips and tried to get his breathing under control. When the flannel rubbed against his nipple, Arthur’s toes curled. Arthur looked up and Merlin was peering down at him intently. The look in his eyes was one Arthur only recognized in his dreams. But Arthur knew he wasn’t dreaming now. His heart was beating far too hard in his chest.

“Lean forward.” Merlin whispered.

Arthur did as he was asked. His body tensed and his shoulders were almost up to his ears. Merlin squeezed the flannel and the warm water trickled over his shoulder. Arthur tensed impossibly further when Merlin touched his shoulder with his bare hand. Merlin didn’t usually touch him when he bathed him. Arthur wondered what had gotten into Merlin. Even more so, he wondered how he was going to stave off the blood that rushed to his nether regions. Thinking of battlefields and dead bodies didn’t work and neither did, surprisingly, picturing Gaius naked.

“Merlin…” Arthur started.

“Shhh…don’t say anything.” Merlin pushed up against his back. He rubbed the flannel hard against Arthur’s back bringing it slowly over Arthur’s shoulder and to Arthur’s chest.

Arthur decided to give in. His erection was inevitable and his itchy fingers longed to bury themselves in Merlin’s hair.

Arthur had never been more grateful, or more aggravated, when there was a knock on the door.

Merlin groaned and stood up. He hurriedly placed a screen in front of the tub. He rushed to the door. “Lord Kay!” Merlin announced.

Arthur rolled his eyes. “Of course.”

“Are you here to see Arthur?” Merlin asked.

“No. I wanted to talk to you, Merlin. I’m not sure if I properly apologized for last night.”

Arthur’s ears perked up.

Merlin exhaled softly. “You apologized last night. It’s not necessary to do it again.”

“I just don’t want you to feel uncomfortable around me, Merlin. I know that kiss was a surprise.”

Arthur’s mouth dropped up. His fingers dug into the sides of the tub. Naked or not, he seriously contemplated jumping out of the tub and strangling Lord Kay.

“I’m not uncomfortable. It was just one kiss and you already apologized. We don’t need to talk about it anymore.”

“Alright. I’ll see you at dinner tonight.”

Merlin didn’t say anything. The next thing Arthur heard was the door closing.

Arthur jumped up immediately and removed the screen. Merlin was walking towards him with his head down. Arthur stalked forward. “He kissed you?!”

Merlin still couldn’t meet Arthur’s eyes. “Yes. But it was just one kiss and…”

“And did you like it?”

“That’s not the issue.”

“I think it is.” Arthur huffed. “Did you enjoy it, Merlin?”

Merlin looked up at Arthur, before quickly looking back down. “Yes, briefly but-”

“Merlin, I’d like you to ask John to come up here and assist me?”

Merlin furrowed his brow. “John? Why?”

“Because I need to prepare for the tournament and I don’t want you here.”

Merlin sighed deeply. His shoulders heaved up and down as he stared at Arthur. “Arthur, why are you acting like this?”

“I don’t need to explain myself to you, Merlin.” He turned his back to Merlin. “I gave you an order. Now go!”

Arthur refused to turn back and look at him. Merlin stayed rooted to the spot for another minute before Arthur heard his feet slap against the ground and then the door slammed shut.


~*~

Arthur couldn’t remember the last time he trained so hard, especially for a simple tournament. Part of him had hoped that when he got back to his and Merlin’s room that Merlin wouldn’t be there. Though another part knew if that were the case it was more than likely that Merlin would be with Lord Kay. Arthur knew that his anger at Merlin was irrational. He knew that he should have let Merlin explain, but he didn’t want to hear it. He was angrier at himself than at Merlin or Lord Kay. He hated having these feelings for Merlin. He didn’t understand where they came from and he hated how they made him feel out of control and anxious. Perhaps distancing himself from Merlin was for the best. But just how much distance was necessary, he wondered.

When he got to their room, it was dark and when he walked further inside he could see Merlin was in bed. He didn’t wake Merlin. He got undressed quietly and slipped into bed. Merlin had his back to him and didn’t move as Arthur settled against his pillow. Arthur stared at Merlin’s back for a moment before sighing and turning over.


~*~

When Arthur woke up the next morning he felt something heavy against his chest. He opened his eyes and looked down to see Merlin’s arm draped across his chest and Merlin’s head close to his, sharing Arthur’s pillow. Arthur gulped. He made a move to remove Merlin’s arm, but hesitated. Instead he carefully and gently ran his hand through Merlin’s hair. He smiled when Merlin smiled. Arthur looked down at Merlin’s face and wondered why he refused to take what he wanted.

He was about to wake Merlin when he heard a short knock on the door. John stuck his head in. Arthur almost forgot he asked John to come over first thing in the morning. Arthur quickly removed Merlin’s hand and stood up. He looked down briefly to make sure he didn’t have an erection and walked towards John.

Arthur heard Merlin begin to stir behind him. “Thank you for arriving promptly, John.”

John bowed his head. “Of course, sire.”

“Arthur?” He heard Merlin call out.

Arthur took a deep breath and turned around. He gave Merlin a bored expression as he walked toward the bed. “Good morning, Merlin.”

Merlin rubbed at his eyes. “Did John bring breakfast?”

“Not yet. I asked him to come up here before he did that.”

Merlin looked behind Arthur to John. “Why?”

Arthur sighed. “I think it would be for the best if John helped me prepare for the tournament today. I think you should go and help Lord Kay. I suspect that’s where you would prefer to be.”

Merlin frowned. “If that’s what you want…”

Arthur nodded. “It is.”

Merlin threw back the covers roughly. “I shouldn’t keep Lord Kay waiting then.”

Arthur watched Merlin rip clothes from the cupboard and get dressed hastily. Merlin glared at Arthur before storming out of the room.


~*~

Merlin had been incredibly flustered as he helped Lord Kay put on his armour. He’d made mistakes that he hadn’t made since he first became Arthur’s servant. Lord Kay had been patient. Merlin couldn’t stop fuming about Arthur’s behavior over the last 24 hours. Arthur’s moods were giving Merlin whiplash. He wasn’t sure why Arthur was being so chilly and refused to let him explain Lord Kay’s kiss. A part of Merlin suspected Arthur of being jealous, and the thought did give him a bit of a thrill. But he was too upset over Arthur’s behavior to be consoled by that thought.

Merlin finally got the last piece of Lord Kay’s armour in place and reached for Lord Kay’s helmet.

Lord Kay took it and pursed his lips. He looked at Merlin with concern. “I’m sorry if I’ve caused any discord between Arthur and you.”

Merlin’s eyes widened slightly. “It’s not really your fault.”

“I suppose this is Arthur’s way of giving me his answer.”

Merlin ran a hand through his hair. “Answer about what?”

Lord Kay sucked in a breath. “Oh, dear.”

Merlin looked toward the man sharply. “What’s wrong?”

“I suppose Arthur didn’t talk to you then.”

Merlin stepped closer to Lord Kay. “Tell me about what?”


~*~

As expected, Lord Kay and Arthur were the last two left standing. Arthur mounted his horse. He looked across the field and watched as Lord Kay leaned over and kissed Merlin on the cheek. Arthur’s blood boiled. He practically ripped the lance out of the poor servant’s hand, gripping it tightly.

He briefly waved to the crowd as they cheered. He stuffed his helmet over his head and stared daggers across the field at Lord Kay. He took off at a fast pace when the flags were raised. As the horse galloped faster and faster, and he got closer and closer, his anger at Lord Kay began to boil over. If it wasn’t for him he wouldn’t be feeling like he was. It was Lord Kay’s insistence that he share a bed with Merlin, his ideas about taking your pleasure where you can, his behavior around Merlin that caused Arthur’s problems.

Arthur had never wanted to cause serious bodily damage to anyone as much as he wanted to hurt Lord Kay. He thrust his lance forward at the same time as Lord Kay thrust his forward. They both narrowly missed the other.

Arthur gripped his horses’ reins and quickly brought it to a stop. He got back in position right away and charged forward again. This time he focused his anger better and was more precise. He landed more than a glancing blow to Lord Kay’s side and the man toppled off of his horse and was dragged briefly by his horse.

Arthur ripped off his helmet and thrust it in the air. Even though their ruler wasn’t victorious the crowd was very loud with their cheers. Arthur smiled sincerely. He spotted Merlin on the sidelines. He did not look amused or happy in the slightest.

Arthur trotted over and dismounted. He handed his lance to a servant and the servant took it and the horse away. Arthur sauntered over to Merlin. “Aren’t you going to congratulate me?”

Merlin’s lips formed a thin line. “For what – your victory just now or on finally getting rid of your useless servant?”

Merlin stormed off as Arthur spluttered behind him, having no idea what Merlin was on about.

It took Arthur a long time to catch up with Merlin. They were just outside of their chambers when Arthur grabbed Merlin’s arm. “Merlin, stop!”

Merlin paused briefly.

“Thank…”

Merlin charged forward again, throwing the door open to their chambers and literally slamming the door in Arthur’s face.

Arthur’s eyes widened and he stared in shock at the closed door for a moment. He wrenched the door open and stalked toward Merlin, who had begun to pace.

“What…the…hell has gotten in to you, Merlin?”

“Lord Kay told me about his offer. He wants me to stay here as one of his servants.”

Arthur’s anger deflated a bit. “Oh.”

“Yes, oh. It seems in your rush to remove me from your life, you forgot to inform me of this rather important decision which happens to concern me.” Merlin yelled.

“Nothing has been decided.”

“That makes me feel so much better.” Merlin muttered in a sarcastic tone.

Arthur threw up his hands. “I don’t know why you’re upset.”

Merlin narrowed his eyes. “You don’t know why I’m upset? You actually have to think about whether or not to get rid of me.” He shrugged. “Why would that upset me?”

Arthur ran a frustrated hand through his hair. “I couldn’t make the decision on my own, since as you said, this affects you, too. I was going to tell you about Kay’s offer, but-”

“But you had to overreact to his kissing me instead.”

Arthur clenched his hands tightly. “Yes. I’m sorry about that.”

Merlin hugged his arms to his chest. He shook his head slowly. “I actually believe what you said to me the other day, that you were my friend and that you cared about me.”

Arthur crossed the room quickly and Merlin stopped pacing. “I was considering this because I do care about you. I thought you might want to stay in Cambia.”

“Why would you think that?”

Arthur growled. “Because…because you like it here. Cambia’s much more peaceful and less restrictive than Camelot. And the people here don’t treat you horribly. You think Lord Kay’s a great man. You like kissing him.”

Merlin groaned. “It was one kiss. I briefly enjoyed it and then I pushed him away.”

“You pushed him away?”

“Yes.”

Arthur sighed. “I’m sorry I didn’t let you explain.”

Merlin sat down on the bed heavily.

Arthur walked over and sat down next to him. “Merlin, I just want you to be happy.”

Merlin’s forehead creased deeply as he shot Arthur an incredulous look. “You really are an idiot, Arthur!”

Arthur’s eyes widened.

Merlin’s expression softened. “I told you once that I was trying to find a place where I fit in and I found it. Camelot is my home. I belong there and I belong with you.”

Arthur looked into Merlin’s eyes. They gazed at each other. Merlin stood up. “But I won’t stay there if you don’t want me to.”

He walked out of the room.


~*~


Merlin stood behind Arthur during dinner wanting to be anywhere but there. Lord Kay looked to him a few times, but Merlin was in no mood to deal with him.

Lord Kay clapped Arthur on the shoulder. “Your cup is empty.” He twisted around. “Merlin? Could you come here please? Arthur’s goblet is empty.”

Merlin sighed and walked forward stiffly. He refilled Arthur’s drink and went back to his previous position.

“Things aren’t any better between you and Merlin.” Lord Kay said to Arthur.

Arthur didn’t answer him. He just took a long gulp of his ale.

Lord Kay shook his head. “I didn’t mean to cause any trouble between you two.”

Arthur laughed, surprising both Merlin and Lord Kay. “That’s all you’ve tried to do this entire week.”

“Arthur-”

“It’s true. Lord Kay I respect you as a leader and how you choose to rule your kingdom is entirely up to you. But I’m not you. I’m not father. I will rule Camelot as I see fit and if that means following old, rubbish traditions that’s my decision. I’m glad that we were able to reach an amicable decision and I don’t want to spoil that, but I’m going to turn down your offer. Merlin is going to come home with me because that’s where he belongs and because I couldn’t imagine Camelot with him. You were right about one thing this entire time – Merlin is special and I wouldn’t give him up for anything.” Arthur looked over and smiled at Merlin. Arthur got up and dropped his napkin on the table. “Now, if you’ll excuse me I’d like to try and get some sleep. We have a long day’s journey home tomorrow.”

Lord Kay just nodded.

Merlin tried to hide the beaming smile on his face when Lord Kay twisted to face him, but he couldn’t help it. “Goodnight.”

Lord Kay smiled back. “Goodnight, Merlin.”

As Merlin passed him, Lord Kay grabbed his hand and placed something in it. “I think you may need this tonight.”

Merlin scrunched up his nose as he looked down at his hand. “What’s this?”

Lord Kay just smirked. “When the time is right, you’ll know what to do with it.”

Merlin looked at it for a moment longer before looking once more at Lord Kay and walking away.


~*~


Arthur held up his arms as Merlin took his shirt off. Merlin hadn’t said anything as he’d walked into the room. He walked up to Arthur and started to undress him for the night. He had that look in his eye again, the one from Arthur’s dream and from when he was bathing him the previous day.

Arthur chose to sleep shirtless that night. He got into bed and watched Merlin undress. Merlin didn’t make a show of it, but he took his time. Arthur shut his eyes tight when Merlin walked over to the bed and he felt the dip in the bed when Merlin lay down.

Merlin’s hand ghosted over his gently. “Arthur?”

Arthur found he had difficulty breathing as he turned to Merlin. He swallowed thickly. “Yes?”

“Thank you for what you said tonight. I won’t forget it.”

Arthur nodded his head jerkily. “I meant every word.”

“I know.” Merlin squeezed his hand. He then laid back and closed his eyes.

Arthur looked up at the ceiling and blew out a slow breath. He didn’t know why he was just lying there. If anything was going to happen he would have to do something. But he found that for one of the few times in his life he was truly paralyzed with fear. He knew that the time was dwindling. They would be home soon and Arthur knew he would never have the courage to act on what he was feeling there.

Arthur lay there for a while, thinking. Arthur’s indecision wasn’t the only thing that kept him awake. Merlin had managed to get some rest, but he was clearly distressed as well. He proceeded to toss and turn repeatedly, constantly stealing the covers. Merlin rotated again, giving Arthur his back and took the covers again. Arthur rolled his eyes and grabbed the covers. He sat up on his elbows. “Merlin, I swear…” His voice became choked as Merlin turned again onto his back. The sheets had slipped down to Merlin’s thighs and Arthur couldn’t help it as his gaze traveled to Merlin’s groin. There was a clear tent in his trousers.

Arthur gulped and looked away for a second. But he quickly turned back when Merlin began to mumble in his sleep. “Arthur…” He said in a hushed, reverent tone.

Arthur slid both hands down his face. Merlin was thinking about him and clearly whatever he was dreaming about was affecting him in a very, very big way.

Arthur sat up in bed and leaned closer to Merlin. He slowly snaked his hand closer to the front of Merlin’s pants. He couldn’t hold back any longer. He had to feel it, just once. He tentatively touched Merlin’s clothed erection. It was a feather light touch but Merlin moaned. With that moan something broke inside of Arthur and he was hit with a wave of lust he couldn’t hope to contain it.

His touch went from feather light to firmer, harder strokes. Arthur moved to crouch above Merlin. He put his head in Merlin’s crotch and sniffed loudly.

Merlin finally began to stir at Arthur tugged at the laces to Merlin’s pants. Merlin’s eyes fluttered open. His unfocused gaze cleared up quickly when he saw Arthur and what he was doing. “Arthur?”

Arthur pulled down Merlin’s pants. Merlin’s thin, long cock was standing at attention. “Tell me you don’t want this, Merlin.” Arthur grasped Merlin’s cock by the base.

Merlin’s hands clutched the sheets. “I can’t. I’ve wanted this for so long.”

“Good.” Arthur licked at the head of Merlin’s cock experimentally.

Merlin’s entire body came off the bed as he let out a strangled cry.

Arthur pushed his body down gently with his hand. He swallowed Merlin down to the root. His eyes began to water, but he didn’t care. Merlin’s loud moans spurred him on. He retreated when he thought it might be too much for him. He wiped at his eyes.

He didn’t let Merlin recover as he gasped for air. Arthur licked a long stripe from the root to the base.

“Arthur!” Merlin moaned.

Arthur couldn’t get enough of him. He felt extremely foolish for having denied himself this for so long. Out of the corner his eye he saw Merlin’s hand as it hovered over the bed. Merlin kept clenching his fist over and over again. He reached over and brought Merlin’s hand to his head as he took Merlin into his mouth.

Merlin carded his hand through Arthur’s hair. He was gentle at first but as Arthur sucked on the tip of his cock, Merlin pressed down on Arthur’s head and forced it down further. Merlin let out a loud and long groan. “Oh! Oh, Arthur that’s so fucking good!”

Arthur hummed around Merlin’s cock and looked up to see Merlin’s eyes roll back in his head. He pulled back slowly savoring the taste of Merlin. Arthur swirled his tongue around the tip as Merlin’s breath comes out in a series of sharp gasps.

Arthur bobbed his head up and down speeding up as Merlin writhed against the bed. Merlin tugged at Arthur’s hair. “Arthur, Arthur I’m going to…”

Arthur doesn’t ease away instead he sucked harder until Merlin began to convulse and come filled Arthur’s mouth. He eased off Merlin’s cock to swallow the salty taste down. He stroked Merlin with his hand as he took his mouth off Merlin’s softening penis.

He kissed his way slowly up Merlin’s body. When he is finally face to face with Merlin his lust subsides for a moment as he looked at Merlin’s lust blown eyes. Merlin pants and his cheeks are flushed, but Arthur’s breath is stolen when for the first time he realized just how beautiful Merlin was. The realization of his luck to have had Merlin in his life for so long hits him so hard that tears spring to his eyes.

Merlin has finally recovered enough and has seen Arthur’s tears. Merlin caressed Arthur’s cheek so tenderly. Arthur buried his head in Merlin’s shoulder for a moment. Looking up, he quickly captured Merlin’s mouth in a bruising kiss. Merlin opened his mouth on a moan and Arthur swept his tongue against the roof of Merlin’s mouth. Merlin wrapped his legs around Arthur and writhes against him.

Arthur pulled back and ripped Merlin’s shirt over his head. He moved to Merlin’s feet and yanked his pants off. He roughly turned Merlin over. He licked his way up Merlin’s back and kissed the back of Merlin’s neck.

Merlin hooked his arm around the back of Arthur’s neck. He turned to Arthur. “Get undressed.”

“Are you telling me what to do, Merlin?” Arthur nipped at Merlin’s ear.

“Yes.” Merlin panted against Arthur’s mouth.

Arthur grinned and pressed a kiss to Merlin’s mouth and scraped his teeth against Merlin’s bottom lip. He got up and quickly got out of his pants.

Merlin twisted around. “Arthur, there’s a small jar in the cupboard. Get it, please?”

Arthur lifted an eyebrow but rushed off to do as Merlin asked. He gets back to the bed and handed the jar to Merlin with a questioning look.

Merlin looked down sheepishly. “Lord Kay gave it to me. He said I would probably need it tonight.”

“That cheeky wanker.” Arthur mumbled.

Merlin took Arthur’s face in his hands. “Do you want to think about him or do you want to fuck me?”

Arthur answered that with a slow kiss, and as Merlin’s tongue tangled with his, Arthur moved over Merlin. Arthur broke the kiss and pushed Merlin’s face gently down on to the pillow. He opened the jar of oil and coated his fingers. He quickly prepared Merlin’s entrance. Merlin groaned and pushed back against Arthur’s fingers.

Arthur coated his cock with the oil. He looked down and saw that he was leaking already. He feared that this would not last long his desire for Merlin too great. With that in mind, he climbed over Merlin and ran a hand through his hair as he entered Merlin with one thrust.

Merlin’s breathing is labored as he shut his eyes. Arthur stroked his hand down Merlin’s back and everywhere he could find. He began to undulate against Merlin’s back slowly and fucked into Merlin deeper and deeper. He groaned into Merlin’s ear.

Merlin began to keen and clutch at the sheets. He said Arthur’s name over and over again in a desperate cry for something Arthur did not want to give him yet. Arthur didn’t want this to be over, but he could feel the pressure building inside. His balls tightened and with one last thrust he spilled inside Merlin. “Merlin!”

He reached forward and pulled at Merlin’s cock. Once, twice, and that’s all it took before Merlin’s come spilled over his hand.

Arthur panted harshly and collapsed against Merlin’s back. As he began to pull out, Merlin reached back and held Arthur against him. “Not yet.”

Arthur kissed Merlin’s neck and then his cheek. He rubbed his cheek against Merlin’s. “I’ll stay as long as you want me to.”

Merlin looked back and gave Arthur a wide and gorgeous smile. Arthur’s too tired to fight it when he finally was able to put a name to what he felt when Merlin looked at him like that. He simply smiled back at Merlin and kissed him softly.




~*~

Merlin had never slept so peacefully. His body ached but he couldn’t feel any pain. The only thing he felt was joy. The realization that two arms were wrapped around him and a warm body pressed against his back hit him and he opened his eyes. When he looked up he saw two gorgeous blue eyes looking at him with such warmth and tenderness he almost didn’t recognize the person looking down on him as Arthur.

“Good morning.”

Merlin blinked at Arthur. “Arthur?”

Arthur’s smile widened. “I thought you might like some breakfast.”

Merlin sat up slowly. He looked next to him and saw a tray with grapes, bread, and cheese.

Arthur picked up a grape. “I know these are your favorite.” He offered the grape to Merlin, who took it the look on his face a mixture of surprise, wonder, and confusion.

Arthur ran a hand down Merlin’s cheek. “Are you alright?”

Merlin swallowed. “I think I’m just a little…surprised that you’re still here.”

Arthur slid closer to Merlin and started stroking his leg. “You thought I would leave?”

Merlin shook his head. “I don’t know. Last night feels like a dream. I’ve wanted this for so long Arthur. But…” Merlin shrugs helplessly. “I don’t know what this means. I wonder if this only happened because you were jealous of the attention Lord Kay was giving me.”

Arthur looked down. “I admit that I’ve been jealous of what you might feel for him.”

Merlin took Arthur’s hand. “I don’t feel anything for him.”

Arthur bit his lip and his eyes brightened. “Good.”

“But Arthur does this really mean anything to you? Perhaps you decided to give in to whatever desire you have for me because it’s alright here. It’s fine to do this in Cambia. But we’re going home now. You’ve satisfied your curiosity and I don’t know what’s left.” Merlin’s bottom lip began to quiver and his voice cracked as he started to speak. “Arthur, for me this is more than just wanting you in my bed. I love you.”

Arthur sucked in a breath. “Merlin, I took you to bed not just out of some curiosity. I wanted you desperately.”

Tears filled Merlin’s eyes. “But you won’t want me in Camelot. You have Gwen.”

Arthur touched Merlin’s face. He wiped at his tears. “Merlin, Gwen is amazing. She’s beautiful and kind and smart. There’s only one thing that’s wrong with her.”

“What’s that?”

“She’s not the person that I love.” Arthur put his arm around Merlin and pulled him close. He kissed the top of Merlin’s head. He looked back and into Merlin’s wide eyes. “I love you, Merlin.”

“Really?” Merlin said in a small, shaky voice.

Arthur laughed. “Yes! I love you so much. It doesn’t matter where I am whether it’s here in Cambia or in Camelot. That’s never going to change.”

Merlin wrapped his arms around Arthur in a fierce hug. “I love you.” He pulled back and rained kisses all over Arthur’s face as Arthur smiled.

~*~

Lord Kay watched as Arthur and Merlin prepared the horses for their departure. When they were done Arthur looked back at his old friend. He had a sly smile on his face. Merlin and Arthur walked over to him.

Lord Kay shook both of their hands. He eyed Merlin with a mischievous glint in his eye. “I trust you used the gift that I gave you last night.”

Merlin’s cheeks reddened and Lord Kay snorted loudly, in a way most undignified for a man of noble blood.

“Goodbye, Lord Kay.” Merlin was a bit shocked when the Lord Kay bowed to him.

“Goodbye, Merlin. I hope one day our paths will cross again.”

Merlin looked at Arthur briefly.

Arthur just smiled at his old friend, and now his lover. He felt no jealousy whatsoever towards Lord Kay now that he knew where Merlin’s heart lay.

Merlin turned back to Lord Kay. “Perhaps they will.” He bowed his head one last time to Lord Kay and headed towards the horses.

Arthur watched Merlin walk away. He couldn’t help the besotted look on his face. He turned back to Lord Kay and saw him watching him. Lord Kay looked far too satisfied.

“I take it you finally realized what you have with Merlin.”

Arthur’s brow furrowed in confusion. “How would you know what I have with Merlin?”

“Because I have eyes Arthur. You could deny it all you liked, but I could see how you felt about him. I hoped that I could thrust you in the right direction.” Lord Kay explained.

Arthur looked at the man skeptically. “What are you saying? That you orchestrated Merlin and my…” Arthur trailed off, getting flustered at the smug look on Lord Kay’s face. “What are you saying?”

“You haven’t changed since you were a boy, Arthur. You’re the most competitive person I have ever met. I assumed if you thought there was competition, you might get off your royal arse and do something about it.”

Arthur looked back at Merlin, who was waiting astride his horse. “So it’s your claim that everything you did this week was part of a plan. Your attraction to Merlin, kissing him…?”

Lord Kay shook his head. “No. I told you Arthur I have eyes. Those lips are amazing. No, the kiss was for me. Everything else, yes that was a plan.”

Arthur clenched his fists. Arthur didn’t know if Lord Kay was really telling the truth or not. But ultimately, it didn’t really matter. Arthur knew if it weren’t for Lord Kay, he wouldn’t be heading to Camelot happier than he’d ever been in his life. Arthur stepped forward and threw an arm around Lord Kay in a brief hug. He stepped back. “Thank you, old friend.”

Lord Kay smiled sincerely at Arthur. “Take care of him. You’re luckier than you know.”

Arthur nodded. He turned and towards Merlin and the horses. He mounted his horse giving one brief smile at Lord Kay before directing his horse in the opposite direction.

Every so often, as they rode toward Camelot, Arthur would glance toward Merlin. Almost every single time he caught Merlin gazing at him as well. Merlin looked at him as he always did. How he hadn’t realized the love that Merlin felt and that he felt for him in return he would never be able to answer. But he would never get tired of seeing that look of intense love in Merlin’s eyes and never forget what it meant.

“Merlin, when we get back to Camelot there will be a lot of changes.”

Merlin nodded rapidly, a slow smile spreading across his face. “I know. I can’t wait.”

Arthur wasn’t prepared to completely embrace Cambia’s ways, but there were definite advantages to how they lived. Lord Kay may be unusual, but Arthur would forever be grateful to him and for this trip. It opened his eyes to the special man that had always been there for him and he knew always would be.