Short, I know, and not particularly original but...I couldn't get it out of my head.


The sound of the King shouting at his manservant was not uncommon in Camelot; most of the regulars in the castle had learned to ignore it long ago. This time, however, it sounded slightly more serious than the usual bickering over a dropped plate.

"Arthur, please! I can explain!"

"NO! You've betrayed me, Merlin! I thought I could trust you..."

"You can, Arthur, I swear. Please listen-"

"Why should I? How can I possibly believe you now?"

As the argument continued a small crowd of servants and nobles began to congregate outside the King's chambers, ears practically glued to the door. No one knew what was going on. Arthur and Merlin had been bantering as usual when they entered, accompanied by a laughing Queen Guinevere, and reminiscing about their previous adventures. So what had triggered Arthur's fury?

"...thought you were my friend...worst possible betrayal...how could you...will never forgive you."

They could hear both Merlin and Guinevere's voices, merging together as they protested Arthur's words.

"I never had a choice!"

"Please Arthur, calm down. You must listen to the full story."

"You know I'd never do anything to hurt you."

The group outside the door pressed closer, wondering if Arthur would listen to this desperate plea or if they were about to hear a legendary friendship splinter.

There was a large sigh.

"Go, Merlin. Just...leave. I need to think."

The eavesdroppers leapt back from the door as footsteps approached and attempted to look like they had a purpose for loitering outside the royal chambers. Merlin flung open the door, rolled his eyes at his audience and wandered off down the corridor looking half exasperated and, for some reason, half amused.

The nosy spectators peered hesitantly back towards the still open door. There was a rustle of cloth and then they heard the Queen's voice.

"Honestly, Arthur. I kissed him."