Simple really, it explained everything. The sudden disappearances, all the bad excuses, even Merlin's desire to save every bunny and bambi they came across.

Of course he understood why Merlin hadn't told him, it's certainly not accepted here, not to mention if Merlin came clean it would end them both, the shame Arthur would feel if this was public knowledge, his personal servants a ...No he couldn't say it, hell he couldn't even think about it. How long had this been going on for? Now that he thought about it there had been clues, glimmers of truth woven through the lies, but he'd been so blind. Arthur released a sigh as he reached to his chambers. What should he do? Should he pretend to remain ignorant? He dismissed the idea; he wasn't going to act like a blind fool anymore. No he would confront Merlin, it had to be done.

So later that day, when Merlin arrived in Arthurs rooms with his hands full of polished boots, Arthur, looking out his window, spoke first.

"I know Merlin." Merlin froze.

"It makes sense, everything adds up, the few times I've caught you ... well you know." Merlin swallowed, this was it.

"I mean you stole a dress, what would you need it for, I'm certain Gaius didn't need it, nor any mysterious moth infections." Arthur gave Merlin a look as if to say 'really, you thought that would work?'

"I mean I joked about it not suspecting it to be true... but now I know it is."

"Sire" a now very confused Merlin swallowed. Needing clarification he asked "What's true?" Arthur sighed and turned around.

"You're a transvestite." Merlin froze, seeing this Arthur quickly continued "Don't worry I won't tell anyone!" Merlin looked at Arthur, looking for the joke. There wasn't one. He was serious. Merlin smiled, and then to Arthurs shock, started to laugh. The look of annoyance on Arthurs face just made him laugh even more.

"You think..."Merlin stuttered out between the laughter which was not helped by the very confused look on Arthurs face.

30 years later

King Arthur stood, looking over Camelot. He'd been king for 25 years, looking after his home. He sighed remembering the early years. He heard footsteps behind him. Merlin stepped to the edge of the wall and looked out to Camelot beside Arthur.

"I remember the first night I came to Camelot I looked out the window, and fell for its beauty." Merlin sighed. Arthur smiled.

"I was remembering the early years" to usual grin appeared "you were such an idiot"

"Sure I was, prat." Merlin countered smirking.

"A role one?"

"Yep." Merlin grinned at the old memory.

"I was remembering how I found out that you were a sorcerer, who would have guessed." Arthur said laughed in disbelief. Not seeing Merlin's grin.

"Oh I remember when you found out my secret, the other one, I mean. You as usual took one plus one and made transvestite." Merlin said, laughter gracing his voice.

Arthur moaned "You promised to never mention that!"

"Actually I didn't, but you sort of ordered me not to, but when do I ever listen to you." Merlin laughed once more "The look on your face was priceless, and I was so sure you knew about my gifts."

"Merlin?" Arthur said slowly.

"Yes Arthur?" He replied mockingly, knowing what was coming.

"Shut up!" Merlin smiled, something's never change.