A/N the entire reason I wrote this story is because, ever since the beginning of Merlin this issue has been plaguing my mind, 'Why did Merlin never question the abnormally large amount of time Arthur spends topless?' and yes I know, Merlin is usually with Arthur in his chambers so it's pretty understandable he'd spend some time topless, but as It has been one of my favourite aspects of Merlin (especially as, like the obvious flirting between Merlin and Arthur, this is total fanservicing on the writers part). And, as my dear friend Alex asked for a Merlin slash fic for her birthday. Here it is, my explanation to our beautiful power shots of Bradley James's naked chest.

Disc: I own nothing ect, and it goes on...

'Sire, can I be so bold as to comment on something?' The blue eyed serving boy asked politely as his eyes rove the bare chest presented in front of him.

'No Merlin you can't, but seems as that's never stopped you before; I'm sure you'll go ahead and tell me anyway,' came the sarcastic response of Arthur Pendragon, heir to the throne of Camelot, as he flopped dramatically onto his bed with an exasperated sigh.

'Well,' He began with a grin, 'I was just going to point out that as crown prince of Camelot, with, I might add, an extensive wardrobe, you do spend an awful amount of time with your shirt off.'

Arthur sat in silence for a few seconds; mouth slightly agape as he stared at Merlin's challenging expression. Then, sitting up suddenly, he blurted, 'Well maybe you haven't taken into account the fact that it's like a sauna in this room.'

'It's the middle of winter Arth... Sire.'

Merlin's eyes were flashing with a satisfied gleam, akin to a cat toying with its latest prey.

'Well maybe I just like to appreciate my physique,' the statement was blunt, to the point. 'I do a lot of exercise, and that also generally keeps me at a high body temperature... Besides, what's it got to do with you? Why are you so bothered if I choose not to wear a shirt?'

Merlin paled, the grin long since gone from his face and the playful gleam in his eye replaced with a flash of fear. 'I... It doesn't as such... I just worry, about your health...'

The prince suddenly rose and began approaching his stuttering manservant. 'I'm not making you feel awkward am I?' He was stood way to close for the others comfort now, his breath whispering over Merlin's face with each word and his body heat radiating until the temperature felt unbearable, 'Me showing off my body every now and then?'

Merlin gulped, his pulse a steady din booming in the back of his mind.

Then suddenly Arthur was gone, the warmth replaced by a chilly draft, the prince was chuckling softly as he walked over to his wardrobe.

'Draw me a bath Merlin; I need to relax a bit after today's training.'

Everything was back to normal again.

Merlin let out a shaky breath, 'Right Sire, will do.'

'Oh and Merlin,' Arthur shouted over his shoulder, causing the servant to snap his head around at super speeds, 'Stop blushing.'

'Oh... oh... k.' And Merlin slowly sank into the floor.

A/N so there you go, I hope this is adequate slashage alex, (i'll write some lemons for you if you want when i have the time) Please review, feedback is more addictive than heroin to me

( I DO NOT TAKE OR ENFORCE DRUGS, except Bradleys lovely chest... mmmmmmmmm)