The light of the sun

Hello, my name is Merlin! If you've come here in search of a friend, I welcome you with open arms. As long as you aren't trying to kill Arthur, that is. So why don't you pull up a bench, kick back, and watch some knights training? Trust me, as long as they aren't hitting you, it's always entertaining.

[immortalsirleon]

[immortalsirleon]

arthurclotpole:

Arthur stood by  the captain of the guard as he watched leon aiding Gaius off his horse, eyes wanting to wander back to the still form of the girl on the ground, his heart trying to get him to recognise the pity and pain he felt for her senseless death, but Arthur remained resilient, knowing they had a job to do, and that sentiment could be better channelled in finding out what the cause of he death was. He saw Merlin moving forward purposefully, pouch in hand, and before Arthur could reach out to catch his arm, Merlin had knelt down before the girl, and Arthur had to resist rolling his eyes. He heard Gwaine telling Merlin to be careful, and although Arthur shot him an irritated look, Merlin’s wellbeing more of his concern than Gwaine’s, he couldn’t help but agree with his knight. As Gaius moved forward to kneel by Merlin, Arthur too took a step forward, hand on the hilt of his sword as he watched them, a frown creasing his brow. “Gaius?” he said after a moment, and then Gaius turned to him, and Arthur saw the bruise circulating the girl’s neck, and he knew before Gaius had spoken, that she had been strangled. As Gaius confirmed it, Arthur’s jaw set, and he nodded once, hearing Guinevere’s weight shift, and he glanced at her, knowing the instinctual anger she would be feeling, and he tried to give her an assuring look. He looked to Gaius, seeing him turning the girl’s body over onto her back, her hair matted and ragged against her skin, and he heard Daymon’s gasp beside him, his own frown increasing as his eyes fell on the new focal point of attention; the ugly black symbol marring the girl’s forehead.

Arthur’s hand tightened on his sword, and he took a careful step forward, glancing at both Merlin and Gaius, and then back to the girl. He was careful to take stock of the reaction of the captain and his men, for if the girl was not long dead, he would hold them in suspicion no matter what their rank or title. Arthur knew only too well of knights who abused position. “Gaius.” he said tensely, “That symbol, it is difficult to make out, what is it?” 

[onlyguinevere-deactivated201309]

The symbol on the girl’s forehead was the outline of a triangle crossed by a wavy line. Gaius stared down at it, frowning as he contemplated Merlin and Arthur’s question. “It does seem familiar,” he said, “though I’d like to look at my books to be sure. I do know it’s a symbol used in some Druid rituals, but the memories I have of it are that it’s peaceful in nature.”

He looked back over his shoulder. “Could one of you spare a cape?”

Leon glanced at Gwaine, then started to remove his own cape but Daymon beat him to it, sacrificing his fur-lined cloak to wrap the girl in. The guards were watching them with some suspicion, but once the girl was wrapped in the cloak the captain motioned one of his underlings forward to take her.

“Alderley is just a through this small stretch of woods,” Captain Leopold told Arthur, indicating the small trail.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Gwen Held her tongue as the men around her talked, slightly concerned that her questioned was overlooked, but understanding because, she knew, the question of the symbol on the girl’s forehead was far more important. Better to know what you were up against before you went looking for it. She couldn’t quite see the poor girl’s forehead, but it sounded bad enough and she was struggling ever-so-slightly with the rage that boiled inside. She took a slow breath and stood on her tip-toes, trying to peer over Arthur’s shoulder, an amazing feat in and of itself. 

The Captain indicated a small trail and Guinevere looked toward it, wondering what lay beyond it. Was it really safe to do anything without knowing where whatever had done this might be? She took  a deep breath, clearing her head of any anger that might escape her facade over the poor girl. “Gaius, did she die long enough ago for us to continue in relative safety? I don’t think we’re prepared enough, not knowing what we’re up against.”

Merlin frowned as Gaius answered the question about the symbol. If it was peaceful in nature, it seemed strange for it to be on a strangled corpse of a girl. Nothing about her death seemed peaceful in the least. Perhaps a druid had come along after and seen the horror, and wished her only safe passage, so he put it there. However, Merlin knew, whatever the nature of the symbol, it would come into suspect, and potentially cause problems for the Druid people. Who would believe that they were only trying to do somethig good when everyone around them was convinced magic was only pure evil? He pushed up onto his feet, meeting Arthur's gaze briefly, wanting to say something, or to reach out and touch him, to get some kind of comfort and to comfort in return, but he knew this wasn't the time or place. He was only Arthur's servant here, out on this journey, in front of the others. Nothing else.

His focus was broken by Gwen's question, his gaze moving over to her. She had a point. If something was out there, this would be horribly dangerous, but then, he supposed they'd known that coming into it. He moved over to Gwen, sliding an arm easily around her shoulders in support. "I don't know. It looks recent to me, but not so new that it happened moments ago. I'd say...a couple hours?" He glance over at Gaius for some kind of confirmation on his guess.

Gwaine took a step forward after that, raising an eyebrow. "Well, safe or not, we can't stay here, eh? Not if whatever or whoever killed her returns. Besides, we're knights, if something tries to attack us, we'll just cut that sucker down!" he exclaimed, placing a hand on Gwen's other shoulder, giving her a small smirk. "It's what we do."

It was a hard effort for Merlin not to roll his eyes right then, but he managed. He knew Gwaine was trying to put them at ease, but he also knew that if this turned put to be magical in nature, they really likely stood a low chance. Most of the time the result of that kind of battle ended up with them unconcsious. Still, he gave Gwen a small smile, before saying "see? Gwaine's got it covered. He'll take them all down single handedly." His gaze flicked over to Gwaine, meeting it briefly, before feeling awkward, his eyes dropping away. Looking at Gwaine just reminded him that he had hurt him, and that he had yet to tell Arthur what had happened between them, so it felt like it was somehow a secret. Another one crawling beneath his skin now that they were all put together.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

 The amused sound that came from Merlin’s throat pulled Arthur’s lips into a smile, the huff of air that escaped his manservant tickling the hairs on his chest, and he glanced down to find Merlin raising a brow at him, one that might have been worthy of even Gaius’ standards. As Merlin spoke, Arthur had to fight the urge to roll his eyes and give him a shove for being a prize idiot. Well, his prize idiot. ”You’re berating me for the fact that I saw fit to acquire a stand in to tend to me whilst my current idiot manservant was recovering from a grave and near fatal injury?” Now it was Arthur’s turn to quirk a brow, “Well, Merrrlin, I’m so sorry to have disappointed you. I shall most certainly make sure to demand your presence at my side no matter what perilous and painful injuries you may sustain in the foreseeable future, alright?” Arthur couldn’t help the smirk of amusement that crept over his lips as he teased him, his fingers idly tracing the contours of Merlin’s shoulder blades. Whilst the thought of Merlin’s injury was still enough to make him want to pull the stupid man in against his chest and never let him go, the fact that he had Merlin in his arms now was enough to satiate the fear, confident in knowing that nothing could hurt Merlin whilst he was here in his arms, wrapped up and warmed by his own bed. Merlin was mumbling against him again, telling him it was Arthur, rather than the chores, that he was keen to get back to. Arthur could feel merlin’s embarrassment, and he couldn’t help but allow his smirk grow, heart heating and expanding. Arthur kissed his temple, allowing his lips linger on the incredibly soft skin. And, of course, Merlin couldn’t finish a sentence without an added comment, one laying the blame on Arthur for kicking the dishes and food off the bed. Arthur scoffed. “Your distraction is to blame entirely, Merlin. Those hips of yours demanded my attention, I simply cannot be held responsible for collateral damage.” The poke to his ribs robbed him of all suave, and he let out an undignified yelp, jerking away from the assault on the sensitive area, feeling a kiss being placed at his collar bone.

Arthur clung to merlin as he pressed kisses over his ridiculously soft skin in a way that he would never cling to another person. It was undignified and childlike, but even knowing that, it was a reaction he could not quell, not when he knew he needed Merlin so. There was no denying it, no brushing it away. He needed him more than he could remember needing anyone, and as he kissed him, his neck, his throat, his ear and jaw, his own body seemed to know it, primal reactions rising within him, gripping him to the source of his comfort, a silent plea that he would never consciously make, begging Merlin to stay, to be with him, to be the man Arthur had grown to rely on to just be there. Merlin’s lips reached the pulse point in his neck then, stilling Arthur. He closed his eyes, swallowing gently, holding Merlin a little more relaxedly, feeling himself almost comforted by the gentle touch.  Merlin was smiling, he could hear it in his voice, and Arthur had to let out a soft chuckle at his whisper. He huffed, opening his eyes and giving Merlin a long look, fingers tracing their way over his cheeks. “I’ve never been able to get rid of you when I wanted private time, Merrlin. I’ve come to accept that through years of frustration and target practice”, and he grinned, turning onto his side, arms moving to secure Merlin in against his own body, lips finding their mark as they kissed his nose, each cheek, and then his lips once more. He kept his face close then, allowing his nose brush against merlin’s, smiling slightly as he stared into his eyes. “Fancy telling me another story, Merlin? About where you grew up?” He searched the blue, as though trying to discern all of Merlin’s secrets so that he might learn them all. He pulled Merlin a little closer again, his head resting against the pillow, tucking it in against merlin’s chest where he pressed a few mindless kisses of affection.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin laughed as Arthur said he would make sure to call for his services even if he was on his death bed. He knew it was ridiculous to request that Arthur not find a temproary servant when he was incapacitated, but he liked the idea of being the only one allowed to take care of Arthur, the only one allowed to be by his side the entire time. He didn't think that he needed to protect his position or his place at Arthur's side, but he likes the idea that he was the only one that was allowed to be there. It was a strange feeling of wanting to belong to Arthur completely and have Arthur belong to him in the same way as well. Merlin grinned as Artbur said that his hips had demanded attention and he couldn't be held responsible for the tray. "I don't know, Arthur, that sounds like an excuse to me...," he murmured, looking upnat him impishly. "Afterall, they are only hips. I don't know why they would have such a profound affect on you," he teased, leaning in to press a kiss against his chin, rolling his hip in a tease for emphasis. "You mean you had to give attention to these?" He chuckled at he did it, unable to keep a straight face as he leaned into him. He knew he wasn't exactly playing fair, but no one said that he had to play fair when it came to Arthur. In fact, if anything, he loved to break the rules.

He let out a small sound as Arthur rolled them on their sides, his lips finding his own, then his cheek, before landing on his own again. He loved being touched this way, that Arthur seemed as infatuated with touching him as he felt himself with touching Arthur. He didn't care what kind of touch it was, as long as it was his and against his skin. He couldn't stop smiling even as Arthur mentioned target practice in his quest for privacy. He chuckled, thinking of the way Arthur constantly lobbed objects at his head. "You always missed more than hit, I hope that wad your intention, or you need some practice," he joked, letting out a small laugh. He hummed contently as Arthur pressed more kisses along his face, leaning into the attention, wanting to keep it forever. He met Arthur's gaze, smiling softly as he searched his eyes, melting into the soft stormy blue. He heard him asking to tell him another story about his past, and Merlin furrowed his brows in thought, trying to cast for a sory to tell Arthur that he could amend. He wanted to just tell him everything, but so many of the stories he had dealt with his magic interfering in one way or another. Thinking back on it now, he was amazed that no one had ever caught him.

After a long pause, Merlin began to speak. "When I was a kid, I was always helping out on the farms for a little extra cash here and there. Mum and I didn't have much, but we had enough, and that's what mattered, but I always wanted to help her, since she always did so much for me. Sometimes I wouldn't even work for money, sometimes it would just be for chicken eggs or a bit of spare meat." He paused, thinking about it before continuing. "Anyway, one year, I wad helping one of our neighbors with the farm, and there was this female calf that had a broken leg. They'd done everything they could to fix it and help her, but she wasn't eating, and she seemed upset. They were talking about how they were going to have to kill her, so at least they could get some meat out of her, that it would be more humane than letting her starve, but they were upset about it. They had wanted her to grow up so she could birth more cows and produce milk, and she was going to help them survive in the long run. Well, I was just upset at the idea of killing the poor cow, so I went out there and sat with her for a week. Took along food and water and just trie to ge her to eat. I pet her and calmed her when she got upset, and tried to make her comfortable." Merlin left out the part where he had tried to heal her leg, and when that failed, had taken away some of the pain with his magic. Arthur didn't need that one small detail. "One night, I even slept there in the barn with her, right in the hay. Slowly, I guess I must have become a comfort or she trusted me, because she began to eat from my hand, and then eventually, she was eating on her own and ended up healing, an she was perfectly alright. Ended up birthing a couple of calves herself late on, and I alway went to see her and give her something extra special as a treat. I got a whole dozen eggs for that," he said, letting out a chuckle.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur’s fingers traced up and down Merlin’s back as he spoke, grinning as he said that he didn’t think Charlie would be keen on serving Arthur anytime soon after how Merlin went off on him, and Arthur laughed, partially at the fact that Merlin was insinuating that Charlie would have  a choice in whether he served Arthur or not, but mostly from the memory of Merlin’s jealousy fuelled outrage at finding Charlie serving in his place. Merlin pressed another kiss to Arthur’s chest, making his heart flutter, saying that they’d scarred Charlie for life, and Arthur raised an eyebrow. ‘We scarred him for life? What do you mean, we?’ he grinned, brushing a hand through Merlin’s hair, cocking an eyebrow. “You know, if I’d known you wanted to do your chores so badly I’d never have imposed Charlie on you,” he teased, giving Merlin’s ear a gentle tug, “I’ll know better from now on.” Arthur studied Merlin’s face, eyes moving over each feature, feeling an undeniable sense of possession over him, the word ‘mine’ echoing at the back of his mind. Merlin teased him about being so quick to offer up Charlie but not bothered to clean it himself, and Arthur grinned saying ‘I’m a Prince. I don’t clean things, merlin.’ But Arthur curled Merlin in closer to him, hands moving slowly over his skin, and he decided that if Merlin wished it of him, he’d probably clean until his hands were sore. But of course, telling Merlin that was completely unnecessary. 

Arthur felt Merlin interlocking their fingers as their lips brushed together, and he closed his fingers around Merlin’s securely, holding his hand tight in near their bodies, his heart quickening as it never seemed to stop doing once he was kissing his manservant. Arthur parted his lips, searching Merlin’s face, happiness warming him as Merlin said he wasn’t going anywhere, eyes closing as merlin’s lips brushed over the tendon in his neck, Arthur swallowing thickly at the intimate gesture. Merlin murmured softly to him, Arthur turning his head to meet his gaze, and Merlin said he wouldn’t ever have to be without him, promising it. Arthur smiled softly at him, wishing it didn’t feel so forced. It was a thing to promise, something that could never be guaranteed. People left, disappeared, not always of their own volition, sometimes it could not be helped, but by default or design, those around him often strayed. Morgana had left them with anger in her heart, his father was ill, god knew how long he had left, he’d never known his mother, every carer he’d had growing up had been sent away, knights died beside him, good men, even Guinevere and he had fallen apart after all their promises. It was inevitable that a man like Arthur would somehow end up alone. Still, Arthur knew Merlin meant only good with his words, so he smiled, tracing the line of merlin’s jaw with gentle fingers. “Thank you, merlin..” 

Arthur closed his eyes and melted into Merlin’s kiss, body surrendering to him without struggle. His heart quickened again, aching for Merlin, wanting to envelop him in how he felt and keep the idiot safe from harm. He wrapped his arms around him, legs curling in with Merlin’s in an attempt to keep himself grounded, his mind unable to focus on anything but the emotion he felt rising within him. It should have been humiliating, feeling like this, making such soft sounds, being so vulnerable and open, but he hadn’t the capacity to feel it, to even consider it, not with merlin wrapped around him so beautifully.Merlin pulled back then, and Arthur would forever deny the whining sound he made as the contact broke. Merlin met his gaze, telling him he wanted to spend his life at Arthur’s side, and Arthur’s chest tightened. Merlin’s soft kiss made Arthur feel breathless, and he held him tighter, pressing kisses to his jaw and up to his ear, nose brushing against it, and he let out a breath. “Don’t promise me anything, just…just be here.” 

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin let out a soft laugh as Arthur made a comment about it being both of them who scared him off. He had to admit that Arthur really hadn’t had anything to do with the scaring part, but it was his fault that Charlie was there to begin with. He let out an amused laugh against Arthur’s chest, glancing at him, raising a brow. “Well, if you hadn’t been so intent on getting someone else to take over for me, maybe I wouldn’t have flipped out. You didn’t even tell me you were. How was I supposed to react?” he asked, knowing that wasn’t completely fair. He had been injured, so he really should have expected as much, but he hadn’t been able to shake the need to be near Arthur after he’d held him through a near death experience. It had felt that if he hadn’t gotten back to him, that intimacy would have slipped right through his fingers, forever lost to the void. He was incredibly glad that wasn’t the case, as lying here with Arthur now proved. He heard Arthur making a comment about him being so keen to return to his chores and Merlin smiled at that, and his reply to offering Charlie up and not himself. “I’m not keen to do my chores. I was only keen to get back to you,” he mumbled, feeling a little embarrassed at the admittance despite the fact they were so close now. “And being a Prince is no excuse for leaving your food all over the floor when you’re the one who kicked it there,” he teased, poking Arthur in the ribs, before pressing a kiss against his collarbone affectionately.

As Merlin held Arthur’s gaze and promised to be with him, he could see that Arthur didn’t believe it. There was a tension in his face, in the way he was smiling, and it made Merlin’s heartache to think that Arthur had lost so much and had so little to hold onto. He couldn’t blame him for not believing. Looking at his own past, perhaps it was foolish for him to promise such a thing, when death seemed to follow them like an assassin in the night, weaving and ducking, striking blows to those that surrounded them, those that they loved. Merlin knew they had both only barely managed to dodge death themselves so many times, the count was near ridiculous. One of these days, their luck was bound to run out, but Merlin didn’t want to think of that, didn’t want to consider that one time he might not be there when Arthur needed him most, or that he himself might fall to the blade of an enemy as he’d almost done recently. He’d always felt so invincible, his magic lifting him up above the rest to protect and be protected, and while he’d known he could die, had come close to it, it always seemed like something that happened to other people. That his magic, their destiny, that something would always protect him. He wasn’t afraid to die, far from it, but the thought that it might happen suddenly and without purpose, had made Merlin feel edgy. He’d always believed, if it would happen, it would be his choice. That he would take Arthur’s place, that it would be a final act that showed how much he believed in Arthur and the future he’d build, not a sword to the back in some clearing by accident, that had merely occurred for no other reason than misjudging the situation.

He leaned into the kiss they shared, pouring out emotion, pouring out everything he felt, everything he wanted. He couldn’t imagine a life that was different from this one, one where he was without Arthur, without the feel of his lips against his own, the taste of his skin, the feel of his body beneath his. It felt as though they fit together, that they weren’t meant to exist without one another. The whining sound Arthur made when Merlin’s lips pulled back from Arthur’s was exquisite, and he knew he would remember it always, the soft vulnerable sound that was purely his and no one else’s. He felt Arthur pressing soft kisses along his jaw and his ear, the intensity of the emotion behind each kiss seeping through to his skin, making him feel so wanted, it was incredible. He heard Arthur’s words and knew that he would do exactly as he said for once in his life. He smiled softly, and pressed a kiss against the pulse point on Arthur’s neck, then trailed kisses up along his face to his cheek. “Good luck getting rid of me when you want some privacy,” he whispered against his skin teasingly.

[immortalsirleon]

[immortalsirleon]

When the other riders stopped to await Arthur’s orders, Gaius let his horse continue to move until it reached the head of the column to stop beside Merlin and Gwaine, squinting at the cluster of men that Arthur was leading Leon and Daymon toward.

He…

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin saw Arthur gesturing them forward from a distance, indicating that they were to approach. He pushed Helios on, reaching the group before the others just seconds before them, hopping off his horse, going to Arthur’s side. The quiet anxiety that had been building in Merlin regarding being split from Arthur quieted in his mind, and he was able to concentrate on the situation at hand. He saw the girl, lying on the ground, her skin deathly pale, and he knew that if this was the sickness they were dealing with, then this was dangerous. He grabbed the small pouch of travel healing supplies off the side of his horse and made his way toward the girl, kneeling down at her side with no fear.

Whatever this was, he had to work it out, and he looked across, meeting Gaius’s gaze and he was helped off his horse by Sir Leon, trying not to convey his anxiety, only his worry for the girl before them. He reached out towards her, trying to search for a sign of life, for a heartbeat, breathing, anything.

“Merlin,” came Gwaine’s warning tone, and Merlin’s gaze flickered over towards him. “Careful, you don’t know how it’s spreading.”

Merlin ignored his words of caution, more intent on finding out what was going on that worrying about his own safety. If he didn’t do it, Gaius would, so it wasn’t as if they would all be immune to it. He heard Gwaine sigh at his refusal to listen, and Gwaine moved over to Leon’s side, muttering “it’s like trying to talk to a brick wall. Though I think the wall might be more personable.”

[immortalsirleon]

“Merlin,” Gaius complained, as he saw Merlin walk right up to the body, as he made his way stiffly forward, then knelt beside his ward, patting his shoulder to show he understood Merlin’s sentiments. He touched the child, noting the cold skin. She was probably not long dead.

Leon cocked his head at Gwaine, still not sure where he stood with the other man, though his body was still eager to react to his nearness. “You two still fighting?” he asked Gwaine quietly, eyebrow arched in amusement.

“This girl was not killed by a disease, sire,” Gaius announced suddenly. “She has been strangled.” His fingers traced the bruise on her neck that had been hidden by her hair, then turned her body so that she was lying on her back.

Beside Arthur, Daymon gasped, and the reason was immediately clear when her face was revealed: there was a black symbol painted on her forehead.

[onlyguinevere-deactivated201309]

Gwen couldn’t really see what was happening. She wanted to see, to know, but she held her place. She’d whatever wretched sight it was soon. Part of her worried deeply for Merlin. He was touching the girl without a second thought.

Then she heard Gaius speak. “The girl was not killed by a disease, sire. She has been strangled.” Gwen’s eyes rounded in horror. Who would strangle a small girl, a child? A protectiveness rose up in Gwen’s chest and she wanted to find whatever sod had done it and tear him to pieces, but she held her ground, her back straight and face emotionless. She didn’t think her rage showed through her eyes—and no one would notice, so long as Leon did not look at her. He seemed to see things more than she liked him to see.

“Gaius, can you tell, at all, how long ago this was done?”

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Gwaine glanced over at Leon when he asked him that question, quirking a brow at him. "Fighting would imply it's more than onesided. I'm not sure what we're doing," he murmured back honestly, glancing over at Merlin briefly. Whatever it was, hr wished he could find a way to get his friend back, but the awkwardness that had settled between them after his admission seemed impossible to penetrate. It was almost sick how easy it was to break down a relationship that had seemed so strong. Gwaine was merely glad that he had Leon to lean on for support and understanding. The other knight was surprising to him in many ways, all of them quite pleasureable. He turned his attention back to the crowd just in time to see the young girl turned over and splayed out with a symbol drawn on her forehead.

Merlin listened as Gaius said the young girl was strangled and he could see the markings of it up close. It was horrible to think that anyone may want to strangle a young girl like this and leave her for dead, that was enough of a shock. However, it wasn't the only one, he stilled as his gaze landed on the symbol on the girl's forehead, his heart pounding a little faster. He thought he recognized it, thought he knew, but he had to be sure, had to have confirmation. His concentration was only broken when he heard Gwen ask how long ago she died, which was a good question to ask. Whoever or whatever killed her could still be lingering around if it was recent, and his body tensed, feeling more on edge now. "Gaius...," he said as calmly as he could, gaze moving back to linger on the symbol, "what does that mean...?"

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur held Merlin’s gaze, heart still hammering, something heavy in the air that he couldn’t place, everything was beating, alive, yet there was nothing in the world but he and Merlin in that moment, Arthur’s mind losing all interest past the blue of Merlin’s gaze. Merlin leant in, pressing the softest kiss to Arthur’s bottom lip. Arthur closed his eyes, holding Merlin in close, the touch sending shivers through him, feeling emotion crackling like raw energy between them, and he let out a soft sound of submission to it. Merlin was curling into him then, his face pressing in to Arthur’s neck, and Arthur pulled him in all the closer, needing the intimacy, and as Merlin let out a breath Arthur pressed a soft kiss into his hair, breathing in the scent of him, letting it fill him.

Merlin’s fingers traced his hip lightly, and Arthur knew that he could easily spend every night of his life just like this. He and Merlin lying together, touching, kissing, holding. He’d be happier than any man, surely, if nature would grant him that. He felt Merlin pressing a kiss to his chest, and his heart skipped a beat, Arthur hands running over Merlin’s smooth skin. Merlin whispered, teasing, that the food was on the floor, asking rhetorically who was going to have to clean it up. Arthur smiled, leaning into him, and he murmured; ‘wasn’t hungry anyway…’ and he brushed his lips over Merlin’s jaw. “If you’re less than inclined to clean it, I could always call Charlie. He was so efficient you know, a real talent.” 

Arthur smirked, leaning in and kissing Merlin’s neck, pulling the blanket further up over them, no intention of allowing Merlin leave his arms to clean anything up. He could clean it in the morning Arthur decided. That would suit far better. Arthur took Merlin’s hand, slowly interlocking their fingers together, eyes closing momentarily, feeling relaxed and happy, ‘Just lie with me’ he murmured softly, ‘please.’

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin let out a small huff of laughter against Arthur's chest when he said that he could have Charile clean up the mess. He remembered the scrawny boy who seemed to only get joy when he was properly serving the people he was meant to serve, and how he had gone a little off the plot when he'd found him in here serving Arthur, even though the intentions behind him being there were pure. "Yeah, I don't think Charlie will be too keen on serving you any time soon, the way I went off on him. Probably best not to ask him to clean it," he said, trying hard not to chuckle at the image of his scared face in his mind if he was placed between Arhur and Merlin's arguing again. "I think we may have scarred him for life." Merlin smiled, pressing another kiss against Arthur's chest, loving the warmth and the steady beat of his heart in his ear. "I also like how you were sooo fast to offer up Charlie, yet you couldn't even hint or suggest that you might do it for me, oh no...," he teased, feeling so happy and content that he just wanted to melt into Arthur and never look back.

He closed his eyes as Arthur kissed his neck and took hold of his hand, interlocking their fingers. The intimacy between them felt so natural, so pure, and Merlin knew that this moment was something he would never forget. Somehow the two of them had come together in a way that felt as if they'd been made for one another, the soft rise and fall of Arthur's chest matching his own. He heard Arthur asking him to just lie with him, and he knew without a shadow of doubt that he would lie with Arthur forever if he merely asked him to. "I'm not going anywhere," he whispered, nuzzling his face into Arthur's neck, tracing up along the tendon with his lips gently. "I promise, you won't ever have to be without me," he murmured, lifting his head, meeting Arthur's gaze. He knew that after not growing up with a mother, Morgana's betrayal, and his father's illness that Arthur had to be insecure about the people in his life leaving him, of having no family, of being left behind. Merlin knew it was part of the reason Arthur had searched out his uncle, that he had felt the need to have a tie to someone, to have someone that was family nearby. He didn't want Arthur to feel that way with him. He never wanted him to question if Merlin was going to leave him.

He leaned in, kissing Artbur deeply, heart thumping against his ribcage. The emotion seemed to keep building between them, cresting in high waves that attempted to overwhelm, and Merlin was more than happy to ride it out, to feel Arthur's muscles shifting in his chest beneath his body, to feel his heartbeat, to express just how much he felt for him. "I want to spend my whole life by your side," he whispered to him, gaze searching Arthur's face. "Whether it is like this, or in some other manner, though I really hole it is like this...I just want to be near you," he murmured, pressing a soft kiss against his lips.

[immortalsirleon]

[immortalsirleon]

When the other riders stopped to await Arthur’s orders, Gaius let his horse continue to move until it reached the head of the column to stop beside Merlin and Gwaine, squinting at the cluster of men that Arthur was leading Leon and Daymon toward.

He...

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin saw Arthur gesturing them forward from a distance, indicating that they were to approach. He pushed Helios on, reaching the group before the others just seconds before them, hopping off his horse, going to Arthur's side. The quiet anxiety that had been building in Merlin regarding being split from Arthur quieted in his mind, and he was able to concentrate on the situation at hand. He saw the girl, lying on the ground, her skin deathly pale, and he knew that if this was the sickness they were dealing with, then this was dangerous. He grabbed the small pouch of travel healing supplies off the side of his horse and made his way toward the girl, kneeling down at her side with no fear.

Whatever this was, he had to work it out, and he looked across, meeting Gaius's gaze and he was helped off his horse by Sir Leon, trying not to convey his anxiety, only his worry for the girl before them. He reached out towards her, trying to search for a sign of life, for a heartbeat, breathing, anything.

"Merlin," came Gwaine's warning tone, and Merlin's gaze flickered over towards him. "Careful, you don't know how it's spreading."

Merlin ignored his words of caution, more intent on finding out what was going on that worrying about his own safety. If he didn't do it, Gaius would, so it wasn't as if they would all be immune to it. He heard Gwaine sigh at his refusal to listen, and Gwaine moved over to Leon's side, muttering "it's like trying to talk to a brick wall. Though I think the wall might be more personable."

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur swallowed down Merlin’s groans, wanting to hear more, the noises Merlin could make sweeter to Arthur’s ears than the most beautiful music in the land, each moan and gasp able to tug at his body, mould and transform him, lighting his desire and making him desperate for more. He let out a moan of approval himself, keeping Merlin in close to him, and he felt Merlin’s hand slide up to the side of his head, fingers teasing in his hair, thumb brushing his cheek. Merlin mumbled against his lips, the words almost lost to the passionate kiss, but Arthur heard, and he felt his heart ache as Merlin said he didn’t want anything but him, and as Merlin pulled their bodies flush together he let out a gasp of his own, lips parting as his neck arched, eyes closing at the contact. He captured Merlin’s lips again, his hands sliding down to graze over Merlin’s ass and the back of his thighs, breath shorter now, all needy and wanting. “God, Merlin..” he managed between kisses, “I’m never letting you go, never. I’ve never felt so…alive.” 

As Merlin pressed feather light kisses down his cheek to his jaw and then his neck, Arthur could feel the adoration coming from Merlin’s lips, choking on it. Arthur was used to feeling wanted, wanted for leading an army, for making treaties, for attending banquets and ceremonies, wanted sexually by various maidens or knights even, but never had he felt wanted so completely and wholly for being him, no title, no duty, not just his face, but everything he was. Merlin knew him better than anyone, he knew his bad and his good, and the kisses he was giving him now made Arthur want to cling to him like a child, his heart unable to take the emotion he felt for him. He heard Merlin gasp his name, both breathless, and their eyes met, blue on blue, and Arthur made a choked sound, trying to get air into his lungs. He could see it all reflected in Merlin’s eyes, everything, and Arthur almost felt he should look away from something so raw, but he didn’t, because he could feel the same thing reflected in his own eyes, and he wanted Merlin to see it.

Merlin brought their entwined hands up between them, and he slowly pressed the back of arthur’s palm to his own chest, and Arthur could feel Merlin’s heart thrumming hard to his breast, like a young bird, or a small deer. Arthur stared at him, feeling Merlin’s heartbeat, thanking the Gods for it, and after a long moment he slowly did the same, bringing Merlin’s hand down to rest against his own heart which was beating just as hard and just as fast, holding his hand there and keeping merlin’s gaze with his own. He studied his face a long moment, feeling a blush creep to his cheeks at the intimacy, and then he slowly leant up, pressing a gentle, barely there, kiss to the corner of Merlin’s mouth, letting his head drop back to look at him again, smiling very slightly.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin leaned into the kisses Artbur was giving him, letting out a small moan as his hand slid along his thighs and ass, body quivering from the touch, loving how it made him feel. He smiled, hearing Arthur telling him that he was never going to let him go, that he felt so alive. He knew exactly what Arthur meant, exactly how he felt, and his heart leaped at the confession, wanting to drown himself in everything Arthur. He leaned in, kissing him harder, sliding his lips along Arthur's in a passionate way that left him completely breathless, his chest burning with the need for air. He didn't care though, because this was Arthur, and he could have even his last breath if it meant he got one more second this close to him.

As Merlin met Arthur's gaze after pressing soft kisses along his skin, he could see in his eyes the same affection and adoration that he was pouring out onto Arthur. He didn't know how things had gotten so incredibly intimate without words, but the back of his hand was now pressed against Arthur's chest and he could feel the soft thrum of it through his chest, the heavier beats occasionally thumping hard, as though his heart wanted to be touches by him. He smiled gently at Arthur, holding his gaze even as Arthur dropped his head back to look upon him.

There was something incredible and intense passing between them, something that made the air feel both electrified and like a comfortable blanket, keeping them contained in their warm, perfect world. Merlin leaned down, pressing a soft kiss against Arthur's bottom lip, feeling something rise inside of him, choking him. It made him want to cry and laugh at the same time, a mix of pure, unfiltered emotion pulsing through his veins. He curled against Arthur, burying his face in his neck, letting out a long breath, trying to quiet the swell before he did something ridiculous. His hand slid along Arthur's hip, fingers light and nimble, trailing along the bone, sliding up along his stomach. He curled in, pressing a kiss against his chest, allowing the beat he heard against his ear to sooth him further. "Guess no more food for you...it's all on the floor. Guess who is going to have to clean that mess?" he whispered, tone teasing, trying to lift some of the intensity that had settled upon them.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur let out a laugh at the hooked eyebrow Merlin managed to give him, a perfect imitation of the old Physician, letting his head fall backward in mirth, grinning at the ceiling. Merlin was teasing him about following him around or checking up on him and Arthur smirked, cocking his own eyebrow as he turned to Merlin, adoring the light in his manservant’s eyes. “I’m just an all knowing being, Merlin. As Prince it’s my job to know everything about everybody, that’s why my hair’s so big, it’s full of secrets.” He touched Merlin’s chin, gently brushing away a few crumbs. “I’ve been forced to eat Gaius’ food once or twice, I know it’s the stuff of night terrors.” As Merlin curled in closer so that half Arthur’s body mass was covered with his manservant Arthur could only grin, looking down at Merlin in amusement. He pressed a fond kiss into Merlin’s hair, securing him in his position, liking the added warmth and comfort that the closeness brought, Merlin’s bare skin soft against his own.

Arthur held Merlin’s gaze as he spoke, searching the blue eyes, and he knew he could see the disappointment which clouded Merlin’s gaze, though he wished he couldn’t. He felt guilty for his words, no matter how true, and he had to bite his tongue to stop himself from taking them back immediately, wanting to see Merlin smile, to see his eyes shine again. Arthur didn’t like the idea of not being able to touch or hold merlin anymore than he supposed Merlin did, the thought settling like lead in his gut the moment it was born, and as he imagined the cold nights they would spend travelling or in the village itself, now that he’d had a taste of Merlin’s comforting presence, he wasn’t sure he’d be all too happy without it. Arthur couldn’t help but let a soft moan slip into Merlin’s mouth as they kissed, his breath shortening against Merlin’s soft lips, willing to cease completely if it meant he could kiss him for a prolonged time.

Merlin spoke softly, telling him he didn’t think he could do it, that he knew it was irresponsible, but that he didn’t know how to stop now they’d started, and he trailed off, meeting Arthur’s gaze, and the intensity in his blue eyes made Arthur’s breath hitch somewhat. Arthur swallowed, heart beating a little faster. ‘I know, Merlin,’ he whispered, searching his gaze, his cheeks flushing, ‘It is like fire; consuming, demanding, wild, and desperate,’ and as Merlin took his hand, Arthur allowed him entwine their fingers, taking comfort from it. ‘I cannot imagine anything worse than being parted from you now that I’ve tasted what we can be..’ Arthur let out a breath, unsure if he’d even done an adequate job of describing his feeling for merlin, unsure if he ever would be able to. Merlin said he was staying there tonight, and Arthur’s face brightened, his lips curling into an approving smile as Merlin kissed his jaw, the prospect making him feel rather giddy. He chuckled as Merlin said someone would have to knock him unconcious to stop him, but the chuckle soon dissolved into a moan as Merlin’s lips moved up his neck, and once he reached Arthur’s lips, the Prince’s hands tugged Merlin in close, kissing him deeply, his leg curling up over merlin’s hip, arms locking his manservant to him, the tray of food slipping from the bed and clattering loudly on the floor. Arthur hardly heard it.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin listened as Arthur described what had blossomed between them, and he had to agree that it was very much like a fire. The only thing that he didn’t like about the description was that fires usually burned bright, consumed fast, and then died out as quickly as they were lit. The last thing he wanted was for something like that to occur between himself and Arthur. He wanted him for the duration, to keep stoking that fire and to make it burn continually and a steady pace so that they might last through everything that would undoubtedly be thrown their way. He allowed his gaze to wander over Arthur’s face, taking in the way his lips curled at the edges, how his hair swept around his ear, the soft way he looked at Merlin, memorizing it all, so he could keep it with him always. Whether he was afraid they would fall or not, he knew one thing was undeniable. They wouldn’t ever be able to walk around the castle and touch and kiss one another, so he knew that storing up on these moments while he had them was going to be something he would have to get used to.

He groaned into their kiss, sliding his tongue into Arthur’s mouth, hearing the tray clanging to the ground with force, but it didn’t matter, didn’t make him pull back, because Arthur was there beneath him, their lips sliding together, fitting so perfectly, as though they were made for each other, and it made Merlin’s entire body ache with something indescribable. Arthur’s hands were tugging him in close, his leg wrapping around his hip, and he felt so happy, so fulfilled, that he honestly couldn’t imagine anything better in life other than Arthur. His tongue slid against Arthur’s, tasting him, craving him, and his hand found the side of his head, fingers curling in the soft hair at the nape of Arthur’s neck, thumb brushing along his cheek. “Don’t want anything but you,” he mumbled against Arthur’s lips, body pulling flush against his.

He pressed feather-light kisses along Arthur’s cheek, along his jaw, down his neck, practically worshiping the skin, worshipping Arthur. He was everything to him, whether Arthur knew the extent of it or not, and he consumed him so completely that he didn’t know how else to exist any longer but by Arthur’s side. “Arthur…,” he whispered against his skin, feeling something so intense growing in him he felt as though he couldn’t breathe. He lifted his gaze, meeting Arthur’s, heart racing in his chest, and he slid their entwined hands between their bodies, pressing the back of Arthur’s hand flush over his heart, letting him feel the way that his body reacted to him. He felt vulnerable, stripped bare in that moment, but somehow he knew that despite all their teasing and shots at one another, Arthur would never take a shot at him when it mattered most. He trusted him so purely, in a way he almost couldn’t comprehend when he couldn’t reveal his secret to Arthur. Even though he didn’t think it was time, didn’t know how Arthur would react, he somehow knew that if it was only up to Arthur, he would be safe.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur’s look of petulance was pacified somewhat as Merlin curled in closer to him, and, confident that Merlin wasn’t going anywhere, Arthur smiled, pleased with himself, as though Merlin’s willingness to stay was entirely his doing. He let his lips brush Merlin’s cheek, moving them up into his hair, loving the softness as he always did, letting the sound of Merlin’s laugh calm and lift him. Merlin was busy telling him that although Arthur might have been fine with one world, his stomach wasn’t pleased. Arthur rolled his eyes, but was kept quiet by the kiss Merlin gave him, closing his eyes and leaning into it happily. 

Arthur blushed as Merlin said he seemed to like his ass well enough, grinning mischeviously, loving the cheeky grin merlin wore, the one he often pretended to hate. He loved how it touched merlin’s eyes as they shined, the creases around his jaw, the crinkles at his temples. His crinkles. His smile. But even so, Arthur wasn’t going to allow that cheeky grin to side track him from what he wanted, and he pressed the bread harder to Merlin’s lips saying ‘Yes, your ass is rather delectable, and I want to keep it that way.’ He grinned, satisfied when Merlin took a bite, though the enthusiastic chewing was perhaps an overkill. “Good boy.’ he teased. “The food you get isn’t half as good, and you know it. You probably had half an apple or something. Even if Gaius cooked, you can’t have licked your plate clean.” 

Arthur blinked as Merlin kissed him, then he sank into it willingly, nearly spilling the contents of the tray in his eagerness, and he let out a small groan of protest when Merlin pulled back to speak. His manservant voiced Arthur’s own sentiments about the up and coming journey, well, part of them. He sighed, leaning his forehead to Merlin’s as he asked if they could slip away. “I…I don’t know,” he confessed, meeting Merlin’s gaze, “perhaps at night… But I cannot be irresponsible, not with Guinevere and Gaius coming… no matter how much I want you..’ and he kissed him again, letting out a breath against his lips, hating the idea of not being allowed to touch and hold Merlin the way he wanted. 

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin considered Arthur’s words when he told him that the food he got wasn’t nearly half as good and that even if Gaius had cooked he likely hadn’t cleaned his plate. He lifted a brow in an imitation of Gaius, looking at him suspiciously. “Have you been following me around or checking up on my meals, because how would you possibly know all that?’ he teased, grinning at him, mirth dancing behind his eyes. He knew that Arthur most likely wasn’t all that interested in how much or what Merlin ate, as long as he ate and kept showing up at his room day in and day out. He leaned into Arthur more, his body almost covering half of Arthur’s in his attempt to be close to the other man. He knew he probably shouldn’t be trying to essentially climb all over Arthur when they were supposed to be eating, but he really couldn’t help himself. Besides, how could anyone blame him?

He leaned into Arthur’s forehead, holding his gaze, the intensity of the blue that met him, astounding. He listened as Arthur said he wasn’t sure they could slip away due to him feeling responsible for the lives of Gwen and Gaius as well as the knights, and while Merlin knew he had a point, he couldn’t help but feel somewhat disappointed. It was something he didn’t particularly want to think about, staying away from Arthur’s lingering touches, the feel of his warm body against his own, the soft way he kissed him, and the delectable way he tasted. It made his stomach ache with a yearning that was so severe, he thought it might buckle over right then and there. With the pulse of his magic under his skin itching for Arthur and his own extreme desire for the man next to him, he had no idea how he was going to make it through this without going insane.

He leaned into the kiss Arthur was giving him, lips parting in an open invitation beneath his, and slowly he kissed him until he was utterly breathless. “I don’t know if I can do it. I know it’s irresponsible and selfish, but I honestly don’t know how I can stop now this has started. The way I feel…,” he trailed off, his breath hitching in his throat, and he met Arthur’s gaze, hoping to convey what he meant. He lifted a hand, taking Arthur’s in his own, entwining their fingers so they were interlocking and he felt comforted once more. “I’m staying here tonight,” he whispered, pressing a kiss against Arthur’s jaw. “If anyone wants me to leave, they’ll have to knock me unconscious to even try.” He smiled against Arthur’s skin, pressing soft kisses along his neck until he reached his lips, pressing his against Arthur’s once more, thinking to himself that he should probably move the tray either further down the bed or off it completely before they tempted fate much more.

[immortalsirleon]

Three days of hard travel found Prince Arthur, his knights, Gaius, Gwen, Lord Daymon, and Merlin nearing the small village of Alderley in the fiefdom of Tybal. The village was less than an hour’s ride away, but Leon and Arthur could see a small cluster of Lord Garlon’s men — by the look of the…

[onlyguinevere-deactivated201309]

Gwen took in a deep breath. The travel had been hard on all, though Gwen was willing to admit to herself that it was precisely what she needed. Alderley was a small, comforting sort of village and Gwen looked forward to spending some time there, even if under grave circumstances. 

She saw one of the men, far off still, beckon to Arthur’s troop and a part of her heart skipped in excitement. She scolded herself. It was not appropriate to be so eager for something like this.

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur had been watching the approaching village as soon as it had appeared on the horizon, concentration unbroken as they’d made their way forward, mind on what they might find and any danger they might encounter. He had not let his mind slip once to forget with whom he was travelling, not all knights, not all trained in combat, and his sense of wariness only seemed to grow the closer they came to the cluster of buildings on the peripheral of the woodland. The party was tired, he knew that, they had ridden hard, Arthur pushing them on early each morning and stopping only to eat and water the horses twice in the long day. They’d stopped late at night and eaten before sleep claimed each of them, the fire their only warmth, and Arthur had hardly slept at all in the dark, even as his turn for watch ended, he had remained alert, unsure why he was so on edge. 

Another shape had formed up ahead of them, men in a cluster, their horses a few feet away, and Arthur watched them, noting their colours, Garlon’s men for sure. He patted Llamrei’s neck as she tossed her head, knowing the mare was eager for speed that Arthur had not yet granted her today. He sighed, hearing Leon’s voice addressing him, Daymon coming into his line of vision, and Arthur watched as one man beckoned their party forward. The Prince brought them to a brief halt, turning to Leon, and then forward once more. “Sir Leon, Daymon, and I shall approach to assess what the situation is. Gwaine, Lead the others on at a measured pace, and approach only at my command.” He looked to Leon, and nodded, kicking Llamrei forward, letting her break into a canter to close the distance between the two parties.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin saw the group of people up ahead, wonder what it was that they could possibly be looking at. He wondered if perhaps someone was ill and had fallen off their horse as they rode along. Then again, Merlin considered he might just be thinking that because he was starting to get weary of riding himself. Traveling for the past three days had been a test of endurance on them all, and Merlin had been constantly checking in with Gaius to make sure that he was still capable of riding on at such an intense pace.

He listened as Arthur gave his orders and urged Helios on to follow after Arthur when he was suddenly cut off by Gwaine, sitting high in his saddle, looking across at Merlin with disapproval.

"What are you playing at, Merlin, you heard Arthur. You're staying with the group. Keep riding," Gwaine said, trying to block Helios and get him to turn to trot along with the rest of the group. Merlin frowned at that, looking off after Arthur.

"Arthur and I are a packaged deal, I always go with him," Merlin retorted, narrowing his eyes. "It was implied."

Gwaine looked at him, unimpressed by his logic, clearly not buying it. This had been the first proper conversation he and Gwaine had had since...well, the night of the feast. Merlin wanted to fight him, wanted to ride off after Arthur and force the issue, but he felt horrible for how he'd left things with Gwaine, so instead he looked wistfully after Arthur, hoping that whatever they were riding into wasn't dangerous. He knew if he saw any indication of trouble, nothing would stop him then.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur lay curled into Merlin, breathing in the scent that made his heart glow, lips brushing the soft skin of Merlin’s neck with every slight movement, and he tried to let go of everything that didn’t involve the exquisite way in which Merlin was pressed close to him. He wanted to forget the worry and the weight, to have even twenty minutes that belonged to him and not to Camelot, to be back in the meadow with Merlin, rolling around with him and feeling childlike and free again. He heard Merlin whispering that he loved this, felt him nuzzling into his hair, and Arthur’s lips pulled into a small smile, and he pressed a soft kiss to Merlin’s pulse point, lingering long enough to feel his pulse beat. He whispered Merlin’s name softly, his eyelashes brushing merlin’s skin, and he glanced up at him slowly, finding Merlin’s gaze. He almost felt as though the only escape from the weight of his world was the intense sea blue of Merlin’s eyes, the assurance and confidence that was unwavering, bright and sure, and Arthur looked into it, arms tightening around Merlin possessively, knowing it was something he could never let go.

When Merlin finally moved Arthur’s lips whined in automatic protest, not caring about food, just wanting Merlin in close, him being all the sustenance he needed. “No…” But Merlin had already managed to extract himself from Arthur’s grip, which in hindsight should  have bruised the knights pride somewhat, and was moving over to the table. The bed was immediately cold and uninviting, and Arthur pushed himself up, pouting furiously at Merlin for having disturbed the cocoon of warmth, feeling like a five year old who’s sweets were just taken away. Merlin carried the tray back over, placing it on the bed, and Arthur’s brow furrowed further as he placed the goblet beside him, ready to demand that Merlin get right back in beside him in case his manservant had other ideas. But Merlin seemed to be on the same wavelength, and as he crawled back in, Arthur secured a stubborn arm around his waist, determined to prevent him leaving again. 

Merlin said that now he had the best of both worlds and Arthur mumbled ‘One world would have been fine..’ and he nuzzled into Merlin’s hair, kissing into it softly. Merlin was telling him to eat before his stomach tried to mutiny, and Arthur parted his lips to protest only to receive a very pacifying kiss. He grinned. “ok then.” Arthur picked up one of the slices of bread, taking a bite and chewing on it, and then he glanced at Merlin and raised the bread to his lips in offering. He narrowed his eyes at merlin, swallowing, and he said; “We’re going on a journey tomorrow, Merlin. Eat now. You’re skin and bones as it is.” He reached across him, picking up the wine and taking a sip, ready to force feed merlin some of it right after the bread.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

As Merlin climbed into the bed and Arthur wrapped an arm securely around him, he let out a laugh, feeling joyful and wanted. He loved the petulant look on Arthur's face as he said that he would have been fine with just one world. Smiling, he curled his body in closer towards Arthur, feeling the desire to bury himself in his warm, for then to live in their own little cocoon of happiness and freedom. He didn't understand what it was about Arthur that made him feel this way. There was this undeniable draw to him, this feeling that nothing else in the whole world mattered. He supposed that had always been true. Merlin had been more than willing to give up almost anything to keep Arthur alive and breathing, even his own life, for years now. He leaned into Arthur, pressing a kiss against his jaw, whispering. "You might have been okay with one world, but I heard your stomach growling. You can't fool me. It was not pleased," Merlin murmured, pressing another kiss into Arthur's warm skin.

He let out a laugh as Arthur pushed the bread against his lips after taking a bite, amused by Arthur's assessment of him. "Can't be all skin and bones, you seem to like my ass well enough," he said cheekily. He loved the determined look in Arthur's blue eyes, the way he got when he was stubborn and had set his mind on something. He knew there was no way he was getting out of this without eating too, and he smiled against the bread, taking a bite from it, chewing it over enthusastically. "Delicious, that was great. You do realize I ate before I came up, right?" he said, letting out a low chuckle, taking another bite from the roll. He wasn't going to complain too much, Arthur's food was always of a far higher quality than the rest of the castle's, so it wad always a treat to be able to pick at it. He let out a surprised laugh when Arthur pressed the wine goblet against his lips seconds later, murmuring an "okay, okay...," before drinking deeply.

He had to admit, it was nice being spoiled like this. Far nicer than having objects thrown at his head, that was certain. Once the goblet was lowered and placed back on the nightstand, Merlin turned his body into Arthur's finding his lips, kissing him deeply. "I don't know if I can hold out a whole journey, being with you but not being able to kiss you or touch you," he whispered against his lips, leting out a sigh. "Do you think we'll be able to sneak away and steal some kisses at the very least?" he asked, wanting some kind of reassurance that he wouldn't be deprived completely. The thought of not having this for some time, especially after having just gotten it and found out that Arthur felt the sane as him, seemed like some kind of cruel torturethat he wouldn't wish on his worst enemies.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur rolled his eyes if Merlin asked if that meant he’d won and he gave his ass a gentle squeeze muttering ‘do I ever let you win, Merlin? Honestly.’ Arthur smirked, lips brushing Merlin’s ear, ‘Still learning to walk on your knees, aren’t you.’ He moved his hand back up to Merlin’s back, chuckling as Merlin said he wouldn’t like people walking all over him, and he muttered, ‘oh yes, because no one ever does that,’ closing his eyes as Merlin’s lips closed soothingly over the spots he’d sunk his teeth into, the ones that burned slightly. He wrapped his arms around Merlin, securing him in close, drowning in the comfort his manservant provided. Even if he became king tomorrow God Forbid, even if they went to war, if more disaster struck Camelot, Arthur could be sure of one thing, he could be sure of Merlin, of his stupid goofy smile and his awkward limbs, his bravery even at the most ridiculous times, his determination to follow Arthur through anything. It was the most warming and safe harbour in a storm, and Arthur knew that if he were given the option, he would never leave Merlin’s arms. 

Merlin murmured his name quietly, clearly with something to say brewing behind it, and Arthur murmured a quiet ‘mmhmm?’ in return, carding through his soft hair happily. Merlin paused before speaking, saying quietly that nothing could pull him away, and Arthur felt his heart glow in his chest, his arms tightening around Merlin further, and Merlin met his gaze, the blue eyes shining in sincerity, telling Arthur that he trusted him with everything.’ Arthur’s throat felt thick, and he nodded once, Merlin going on to tell him he’ll make a great king, because he knew he was a great person,’ and Arthur didn’t know what to say to that unwavering vote of confidence, one he wasn’t sure he even had in himself yet. He wasn’t ready, in all honesty, when would he ever be ready for something like that? It made Merlin’s presence appear all the more necessary. However doubtful Arthur was that he would be a good king, he was even more doubtful that he would be able for this without Merlin around, but of course, that was something he would never voice, not even to his manservant.

Merlin kissed the corner of his mouth, teasing him, and Arthur found his lips pulling into a smile. He flipped them over easily, pinning Merlin to the bed beneath him, arms locked around him, elbows supporting his weight, and he chuckled, shut up Merlin,’ he said, smirking at him, leaning in and capturing his lips in a full kiss, parting his own and forcing Merlin’s to do the same. He kissed him for a long moment, and then moved down to his throat, kissing and biting and sucking, adoring every inch of skin, and then he rolled onto his side, curling into merlin and pressing his face into the hollow of his throat, letting out a breath of contentment before his stomach rumbled, and he pressed another kiss there whispering Merlin’s name.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin stared at Arthur and he spoke about how he believed he'd make a great king because he was a great person. There was something in his gaze, a doubt that shadowed the awe, and Merlin wanted to sweep it away, to make him believe that it was true. In some regards, it was Arthur's doubt that he would be a great king that made him ideal for the position. Merlin knew that due to that doubt, and Arthur's incredible heart, that he would never stop trying to improve. He would never stop looking for ways to make life better for his people and for that reason, they would all love him in return. He could see it almost clear as day, yet Merlin still wanted to wipe away his insecurities and show him the truth. He wanted Arthur to know that it was all him, that he was believed in as a person, not a King or a prince. "You don't have to believe me, it's alright. I'll believe for you, until you're ready to see it for yourself," Merlin whispered, his chest aching in adoration of the man curled up with him.

Arthur flipped them over then and kissed him in such a way it made his toes curls. He could feel the adoration, the appreciation, and the passion that lingered behind the kiss. It was enough to make him feel dizzy and breathless, his heart pounding wildly in his chest. He tilted his head to the side when Arthur started kissing, sucking, and biting along his neck, giving him more room to work. He felt deliriously happy, and as Arthur stopped and curled into his side, face pressed into the hollow of his neck, he thought that this was exactly how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. He wanted to fall asleep with Arthur every night, and wake with him every morning, and feel this good every moment of every day whenever he caught Arthur's eye. "I love this...," he whispered, nuzzling his nose into Arthur's hair.

He stayed like that for a long time, curled up in Arthur, not wanting to move, holding him so close. He remembered then that his stomach had been growling, and he let out a soft sigh. "Stay right here, I'm goin to get you fed," he murmured, slowly extracting himself from Arthur, hating the way the warmth on his skin was cooling as he climbed out of bed. He walked over to the table, picking up the tray of food he'd brought with him, placing it on the bed, and he placed the goblet for wine on the bedside table, filling it up. As soon as he was through he crawled back into bed, snuggling close to Arthur's side, saying "there, now you have the best of both worlds. Now come on. You have to eat before your stomach decides to mutiny." He gave Arthur a bright smile, pressing a soft kiss against his lips.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Sorry it is taking so long to reply! I wrote up an entire reply and then my phone froze. :| I'm working on a reply now.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur chuckled at Merlin assertion that he didn’t want to work and that Arthur couldn’t make him, and he kissed his forehead softly, murmuring ‘I know. Been trying to make you for years.’ Merlin’s body was so unfamiliar against him, yet in a strange way Arthur felt as though it belonged there more than anything, that it was made to curl ontop of him and keep him warm, that he was meant to keep merlin warm, and in more ways than one. Merlin was rambling about being the royal blanket, and Arthur rolled his eyes, smiling fondly. ‘I think you’d make an excellent throw rug,’ he commented airily, closing his eyes as Merlin kissed up his jaw, the feel of his lips a caress in itself, and his heart thrummed happily at the soft affection, feeling warm. It was unusual for Arthur to feel so wanted. He was used to being needed, but not necessarily wanted. Merlin gave him that, he made him important for who he was, not what he was.

Arthur frowned as Merlin said a bird must have flown into the windows, thinking that it would have had to have been a pretty damn big bird to do that. Merlin said he might not have secured them well last night because he was taking care of Arthur and the Prince let out a soft chuckle, pulling Merlin in tighter against him, burying his lips into merlin’s hair. ‘And that was much appreciated,’ he murmured as Merlin nipped at  his skin, his fingers tracing the pattern of one of the rivers flowing through camelot down Merlin’s back. He could fall asleep right there and then, despite the earliness of the hour and the work he had yet to do before retiring for the night, Merlin like a drug, the best drug one could encounter, making him feel almost carefree. He pressed a few kisses into Merlin’s hair, hearing Merlin speaking softly, asking him if he ever wanted to be closer. The question made Arthur smile, adoring the way Merlin tried to explain himself, rambling on as he usually did. Arthur let out a breath, letting his lips graze down to merlin’s ear, one hand moving across his lower back to rest on the opposite hip, the other resting on Merlin’s back, right above his heart, and Arthur inhaled slowly.

‘I’ll never be close enough to you, Merlin. Every inch I move only makes me want more,’ he whispered quietly. ‘If I could make us one in some way, then I would,’ and he let out another soft laugh, ‘although that would make it harder for us to enjoy activities such as the one we have just indulged in, don’t you think?’ Arthur grinned, hand sliding slowly up to the back of Merlin’s neck to toy in the hair at the base of his neck, fingers twisting easily in the soft strands. ‘You know, Merlin. I feel close to you even when we’re not pressed together like this. It’s like an invisible thread. I used to resent it, being tied to the incompetent manservant who never shut up’ Arthur glanced down at him with a smirk before kissing merlin’s nose. ‘But I’m grateful for it. You’re the only one who has never strayed from my side. I don’t think I could trust anyone as I trust you.’ 

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin let out a soft chuckle when Arthur mentioned that he had been trying to get him to work foe years. He supposed that was true, in it's own way. He certainly wasn't going to argue if Arthur decided that he wasn't going to try and force him to work. "Does that mean I finally win?" he murmured, grinning against his skin, unable to help hinself. He seriously doubted Arthur would ever admit defeat, but it was fun to try to get him to. He laughed when Arthur said he would make a good throw rug, and he leaned in, biting at his shoulder playfully, saying "I doubt that. I don't like people walking all over me." He pressed a kiss againstthe skin he'd bit at, trying to soothe it somewhat.

He closed his eyes as he felt Arthur's fingers trailing designs down along his back. His eyes closed and he felt so at peace, so at home, that he felt a little drowsy in the comfort. The scent of Arthur's skin filled him as he inhaled, and a soft smile graced his lips. His scent had a way of soothing him and of driving him crazy in equal parts, deonding on how he was feeling at any given time. There was something so perfect about it. It made him want to bottle it somehow so he could carry it around with him and wash all his own personal sheets in it, so he would never have to go without the scent that seemed to enfold him in it's embrace. He felt Arthur's hands moving on his body to find new positions, and he pressed back somewhat into the slide of his palm.

As he lay there, he listened to Arthur's words, his heart swelling. It was all exactly how he felt, how he knew things to be, and he couldn't help but chuckle when Arthur mentioned that it would be harder for them to engage in pleasurable activities if they were one. He had to admit that was true. He leaned into Arthur touch as his fingers started to stroke the back of his hair listening as he continued to speak. He knew exactly of the string that Arthur was talkig about, the way it seemed to twist and turn and pull, but never break. Arthur was always on his mind, always a part of him, even when they weren't together. As Arthur finished off, saying he trusted him more than anyone, his heart stammered and he tightened his hold on Arthur. He'd waited forever to hear those words, but all Merlin could think of was the secret of his magic that hung between them. "Arthur...," he whispered, wanting deaperately to tell him. Wanting to let him know everything about him, that he could trust him fully, tha he would protect him. It was onthe tip of his tongue, but then he thought of Uther, half gone and partially insane when he was lucid, he thought of all the weight Arthur seemed to be carrying on his shoulders the past few days, the way he'd barely been eating or sleeping properly until Merlin stepped in. It made him worry, made him think that Arthur needed him too much right now. He couldn't be selfish in the timing of this. To tell Arthur now, would only offer one more burden, one Merlin couldn't help him with, one that could potentially cut him off from helping with the others. He swallowed back the words, new ones forming on his tongue instead. "I feel the same way. As though nothing could pull me away from you." He lifted his head, looking into Arthur's eyes. "I trust you, Arthur. With my life, with this relationship, with everything. I know you'll make a great King only because I know you're a great person," he whispered, pressing a soft kiss against the corner of his mouth. "Even if you hide it extremely well," he teased.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur let out a sound of contentment as Merlin practically fell on top of him, covering him from head to toe in his warmth, too small to be a blanket, but so much better. Arthur could feel his heart beating against his own chest, thrumming like a bird, so vulnerable and yet strong in his own way, and he smiled as Merlin leaned into him, forcing his heavy arms into motion, slowly wrapping them around Merlin’s slightly sweat damp body. He wanted to be closer to him, but needed a moment to recover from the earth shattering pleasure, and he felt Merlin’s fingers running up his arm gently, so soothing and pleasant, and he let out a soft sound, murmuring something incomprehensible.

Merlin’s head turned slowly, and Arthur closed his eyes as he felt him press a kiss to his shoulder, the low moan coming from merlin’s throat pulling his lips into a smile. He leant into the touch, hearing Merlin saying he didn’t want to move, ever, and he let out a soft chuckle, arms tightening around him, adoring the feel of merlin’s lips brushing his neck, arching it slightly for him, and he whispered ‘don’t plan on letting you.’ Arthur traced his fingers up and down Merlin’s back, feeling content and peaceful, a rare feeling for the Prince, and one he usually experienced only with the man now lying naked atop him. Merlin let out an annoyed sound and Arthur wanted immediately to banish whatever was annoying him. He unwillingly opened his eyes, seeing merlin looking at the open windows, and Arthur frowned, murmuring ‘were they open before…?’

Merlin was pressing back into his neck, huffing out a breath, and Arthur wrapped his arms full around him, kissing his temple, wondering if the bang had been the wind blowing them open, only, it didn’t look too windy outside. Merlin was saying something abut him eating, his lips moving perfectly against Arthur’s skin, and Arthur let out a huff of air, nipping at merlin’s ear, and he pulled a heavy blanket up over merlin’s back to keep him warm, muttering ‘and you’re supposed to be cleaning the room.’ He brushed his nose to Merlin’s cheek, resuming his tracing patterns on Merlin’s skin, pressing the occasional lazy kiss where he could reach. 

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin let out a low sound of contentment when Arthur pulled the blanket up over his back. It was warm and comfortable being sandwiched between Arthur and the blankets. Closing his eyes, he allowed himself to enjoy the soft slide of Arthur's fingers along his back, the gentle press of his lips occasionally meeting his skin. It was everything he could have possibly wanted, and he felt more at peace than he ever had other than having been out in the field. "Don't wanna work, can't make me," Merlin mumbled into his shoulder, after he told him he was supposed to be cleaning. Lifting his head, Merlin smiled down at Arthur, saying "besides, I think my job as a royal blanket is far more important and appealing." He let out a chuckle, leaning in, kissing him slow and languidly, his heart beating rapidly, his whole body humming. It was a sense of completion that Merlin wasn't used to, a sense that he was exacty where he belonged and felt happy and secure. It wasn't only on a physical and emotional level, but magically as well. His magic seemed content, happy to lie peacefully under the surface after having touched Arthur, and Merlin wondered what it would be like if one day he released it completely to do as it wished in one of those intense moments of pleasure.

He pressed a row of kisses along Arthur's jaw and up to his ear, nuzzling under it with his nose. He remembered in that moment that Arthur had been asking about the window, and he knew he had to tell him something, because it did seem awfully suspicious. "Wind must have got the window, or maybe a bird flew into it. I might not have secures it well last night, I was a bit preoccupied taking care of you," he whispered, nipping lightly at Arthur's skin. He curled into him, feeling the warmth of Arthur's skin against his own, some part of him wishing there was a way to be even closer, to feel even more as one. He slid his fingers lighly along the sides of Arthur's chest until one hand came up and started tracing along his collarbone, fingers feather light and adoring.

"Do you ever want to feel closer?" he murmured, knowing he probably sounded crazy, considering the fact he was lying on top of him, that they spent practically all their tine together, and they touched one another in the most intimate ways. "I feel so good with you that sometimes I just want to practically burrow myself in against you and never come out from it," he whispered, wrinkling his nose at himself. It was one thing to have ridiculous thoughts, it was another to share them. Though, he supposed he had said some crazier things in his time in Arthur's service. He suspected that Arthur was used to him coming out with all sorts of insane ramblings. That was one good thing about Arthur, he never seemed to mind when Merlin was going on about things, and if he did, a well placed shut up was never somethig he hesitated in saying.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur bit his lip as Merlin stared down at him, chest heaving a little, eyes dark with lust and wide in awe at the sight of Merlin over him, naked, flush, so perfect. As Merlin’s hand descended, Arthur watched, eyes following his fingers as they closed around his dick, and Arthur stroked his own, so aroused by the idea of Merlin pleasuring himself that he couldn’t stop himself. Merlin’s hand moved a little faster, and soon Merlin was groaning, the sounds going right through the Prince, his cock pulsing in his hand as he twisted his hand up over it, lips parting as Merlin began to thrust his hips in abandon. He looked desperate, wild even, his cheeks flushed and hair rumpled, his pale and angular body moving in arching patterns as he fucked his own hand. Arthur gripped his own cock tighter, unable to keep from groaning merlin’s name, telling him how how he looked like that.

Merlin leant in then, giving him such a forceful kiss that Arthur was sure it would bruise, and he kissed back for all he was worth, hand moving faster, wanting to finish, to feel Merlin all over him, to come with him as one. And then Merlin was crying out his name, and Arthur felt the liquid hitting his neck and chest, arching his back into it, on the edge of his own release, and then euphoria. Warmth, gold, pleasure, flying. The sensations flooding through him, feeling as though his body simply hadn’t the space to contain them. Arthur arched further, coming harder than he could ever remember, letting out a scream that might have been heard through the entire castle, and he gasped for air he could not get, eyes screwed shut and body begging, and he heard something bang, though, it might have been his imagination.

Arthur sagged, spent, groaning and whimpering, pleasure still coursing through him, feeling like he’d never move again. “M-Merlin…” he gasped, head falling back, letting out an exhausted breath.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin felt as though his entire body was burning up in a blaze of gold and pleasure. His heart was racing in is chest making it difficult to breath, and he could feel himself falling apart from the pleasure slamming through him, before he went completely boneless, practically falling on top of Arthur's body, covering him from head to toe. He leaned into him, murmuring Arthur's name, feeling as though his whole life was drained out of him. He'd heard a crash before, but all his muscles felt slack, and he couldn't bring himself to lift up and attempt to look around to see what happened. He curled into Arthur's body, feeling the drying come between them, not bothered in the least by it, just wanting to be closer to Arthur, as though somehow he could find a way to feel close enough. He lifted a hand, running his fingers lazily up along Arthur's arm to his shoulder.

As his fingers grazed Arthur's skin, he found the ability to move his head, turning it just slightly, lips pressing against his shoulder. He could feel his magic starting to settle down along with his body, along with the realization of how dangerous it was to have let his magic go like that in the first place. He found it bizzare how his magic seemed attracted to Arthur in the same way he was, but he supposed in some messed up way it made sense, since it was part of him. He let out a low moan, pressing his nose intothw skin beneath Arthur's jaw. "Don't wanna move," he mumbled, sounding petulant, snuggling closer. "Ever," he finished off with, sliding his lips against Arthur's pulse point, feeling as though somehow he belonged there. Feeling as though Arthur's heart and body thrummed in a way that made him feel complete. He was never sure he believed all that two halves of the same coin description that the dragon and his mother seemed so fond of, but in that moment it truly did feel like he'd finally slid into place. That he'd managed to become that other side in the most perfect and incredible way.

Merlin furrowed his brows when he felt a breeze hitting his back, letting out a small annoyed sound, having been sure that the windows had been shut when they started. He cracked open one eye and turned his head, noticing the windows flung open, and then he groaned, turning his head back into Arthur's neck. He realized that it must have been what the bang was when his magic wad going wild, and he huffed out a breath against Arthur's skin, trying to get warmer. "You're supposed to eat now," he murmured against Arthur's skin, not really all that bothered, wanting to stay close for as long as possible. Longer, even.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

[arthurclotpole-blog]

Arthur was enraptured by the desperate twitches and jerks from Merlin’s body, dragging his lips slowly over him as he observed every pull that made Merlin a little more needy, ever suck that made him whimper, and he almost groaned at the thought that it was his doing. Merlin’s pleas only made Arthur harder, and he wondered if he could come from just hearing Merlin’s sounds of pleasure, without any stimulation of his own. As Merlin began to thrust harshly into his mouth, Arthur closed his eyes, hands gripping Merlin’s arse, thumbs brushing the soft skin, adoring it, feeling the familiar slight choking sensation as Merlin hit the back of his throat, groaning around him, wanting him deeper.

Arthur moved one hand down, along the crease of his arse, wanting to explore, but as merlin pounded into his mouth, he decided to wait, nervous, unsure, and rather preoccupied. His hand found merlin’s balls, massaging, tugging gently, groaning lewedly around him, his other hand moving up merlin’s chest, palm dragging over the skin, reaching his nipples. Arthur massaged one, pinching lightly, brushing his thumb over it, and then he moved onto the next one, doing the same.

His own cock was leaking, hard as hell between his legs, and it only made him more desperate to have Merlin crying his name, and as he felt merlin’s orgasm coming closer and closer, his moans more erratic, Arthur pulled away, gasping for breath, and he smirked up at him, licking his lips, and he kissed Merlin’s thighs whispering; ‘not yes..’ Arthur stood, kissing up merlins throat, and he pushed him slowly back onto the bed, climbing ontop of him, stroking himself and groaning as he did, and he murmured, ‘want you to come on me, Merlin,’ turning them over so Arthur was beneath him, staring up at him, cheeks flushed, hand slowly moving over himself.

[asorcererandhisdestiny]

Merlin thrust up towards Arthur’s mouth, his entire body feeling as though it was being consumed by flames. He thought that if he was going to burn, he’d rather burn this way than by the flames of the stake. He felt as though he couldn’t breather, his body aching for release in a way that he couldn’t comprehend, couldn’t grasp. It seemed as though hard as he tried, he couldn’t get there, the pleasure coursing through him wildly, his body thrashing as he thrusts towards Arthur’s mouth, fingers pulling and tugging at his hair, at the sheets, looking for some kind of release of the tension built up in him. It was almost too much to bear. His heart was trying to escape his very ribcage, trying to leap out towards Arthur, trying to be one with him in a way he couldn’t be. He knew his magic was starting to course though him, and that it was begging to be released, building just as the pleasure was building up in him.

As Arthur pulls back he felt ready to scream, wanting to shout at him to come back, to put his lips right there, because he was almost there, almost going to come, but instead all he managed was to whimper in need. The kisses on his thighs and Arthur’s words were the worst of teases, and he wanted to tell him he hated him, because he really felt like he was going to die, and just let him get it over with. He was kissing up towards his throat then though, and all thoughts of cursing Arthur left his head at the glorious sensation of his lips on his skin, against his neck. Arthur was saying he wanted Merlin to come on him, and Merlin had almost forgotten in his blissful state that he had asked for that. He suddenly felt the desire to fill every one of Arthur’s requests, his heart racing, and as they rolled over, Merlin looking down at his face, he knew he wouldn’t take long. 

Merlin reached down, stroking himself, feeling the slick slide of Arthur’s saliva all around him, making him groan desperately, the reminder that Arthur’s lips had been around him making his cock twitch. He was so hard, so needy, and he thrust his hips into his hand with abandon, wanting nothing more than to just complete, to get himself past this torture, no matter how incredible. He thought of Arthur’s words, how he was asking him to come on him, the idea that he would be marking him, the scent of his come all over him, making him his. It was driving him crazy, and he thrust into his hand, gripping harder, leaning in, and kissing Arthur’s lips with a bruising intensity. He felt right at the edge of his orgasm, and he gave one long pull, forcing it from himself, causing him to cry out Arthur’s name, his magic slamming into him with such force he had to let it go, and he couldn’t even be bothered with concern for what it might do, because he felt shaken to his very core, as though his insides were being ripped out of him with every fresh wave of pleasure.