AN: I think everybody knows I don't own Merlin, but in case you couldn't figure that out for yourself, here is me saying I don't.

Sorry for the wait! Stuff happened. I really hate having long gaps between my updates, but sometimes it can't be helped. Also I'm lazy and I've been slow getting all my old files off my old computer.

Merlin pushed the door open, dirty and sweaty and scowling at the sight of Arthur leaning back comfortably in his mother's chair. They had just traveled to Essetir for an important treaty signing, and Arthur had allowed them to stay a few days in Ealdor on the way back since Merlin hadn't seen his mother in ages. Arthur, of course, took this as leisure time. However, they had happened to stop by at the busiest time of the year, meaning Merlin was spending most of the time helping the rest of the village with the manual labor.

"Of course it would be too much to ask you to help with all this," Merlin grumbled. He walked over to the table and began putting together a meal for himself, Hunith and Arthur.

Arthur watched through narrowed eyes. "Funny," he said. "I've noticed you've done a great deal of hard work since we've arrived here without saying anything, yet when I ask you to do the work I pay you to do, you grumble and complain about everything you have to do. Why would that be?"

Merlin gave him one of those 'isn't it obvious' looks. "Because helping with the farmwork is actually necessary for survival while polishing your boots is only necessary for your vanity?"

Arthur promptly threw the wooden cup he had been drinking from at his servants head.