A/N: Thank you all for your support so far with this story 25 Reviews in 4 chapters, you're the best ^^ they've been a great motivation and continue to be so. This chapter was originally going to be posted tomorrow night, but it was growing too long, so it's been cut in two (roughly) separating the 2 POVs again and giving you the first half a day early. This half is from the POV of Merlin, and you'll get your first taste of angst too.
Disclaimer: Merlin belongs to the BBC and the writers of the show, sadly.
Chapter 5: Lavender
Merlin
"For goodness sake Merlin! Will you hurry up! We're going to be late." Gaius shouted from beyond Merlin's room where he was finishing getting cleaned up and ready. Merlin rubbed a towel furiously over his body as he quickly dried of after not long being out of his latest bath. When he decreed that he was sufficiently dry, he pulled on his breeches and socks then slipped on his boots.
Merlin sighed, 'Do this, do that.' He had been rushed of his feet for most of the day, in fact the only time he hadn't been rushing around doing something for someone today after meeting Arthur in the morning, was his short spell in the stocks. 'Thank you again Morgana.'He thought with a grin as he shook his head.
Merlin uncorked a little vile he had acquired from a... unique merchant, and then splashed the liquid all over his chest. He took a sniff of himself, contented with how clean he was he then pulled on his favourite blue shirt and tightened his red neckerchief around his neck, picking up his jacket he hurried out the room to meet the old physician.
"Finally! What took you so long?" Gaius asked with an impatient stare.
Merlin just stared at his guardian. "Have you ever been in the stocks and mucked out the stables in the same day? It's not an easy stench to get rid of!"
"That's what happens when you lie to me and mock the King's ward." Gaius sighed and picked up his leather pouch, which he had filled with remedies and antidotes in case of attempted poisoning or drugging.
Merlin went to open his mouth and come up with a witty reply or an excuse, but nothing he could say would make his current situation any better. 'That and I don't want to give Gaius an excuse to get me to clean out the leech tank...'
He cast a look over at the grimy container of blood sucking pests. Shuddering from the memory of the last time he quickly replaced the image with something positive and pleasing. 'Morgana... And her full red lips on me...'
With a sheepish smile he brought his fingers up to where she had kissed him this morning, and softly stroked his cheek as he remembered her fondly. His smile grew as he recalled her fingers stroking the same area a few hours back, her soft gentle fingers; he wanted nothing more at the time then to cup her hands in his. To pull her close and run his nose along her neck, taking in her alluring aroma, to return the favour and place his lips on her.
As he turned on the spot in his daze, he caught the glare of Gaius. "What?" He asked in an innocent and confused tone.
With a roll of his eyes Gaius shook his head. "Nothing... Come let's-" He paused and sniffed. "What... What is that smell?"
"I... Err nothing! I bathed three times! It's not me." Merlin quickly replied and shuffled his feet nervously.
"No it's not that kind of smell..." Gaius started to move closer as he sniffed at the air. 'Damn for an old man he's got keen senses...'Merlin moved away from Gaius stepping slowly over to the other side.
"It's coming from you Merlin." He stated with a look of bewilderment. "Come here." Gaius moved towards Merlin but he kept his distance and started to circle the table.
"You're mistaken, and were late... We should really-" Merlin tripped over a bucket and caught the table before he could land flat on his face.
Merlin silently cursed his clumsiness as he stood up; Gaius had taken advance of Merlin's little accident and held his arm then sniffed the young man. "Erm Gaius... That's slightly strange." Merlin laughed nervously as he ran a hand through his black hair.
"That's... Lavender… Why..." Gaius let him go and stared at him confused. "Who are you trying to knock out?"
"I... Wait what?" Merlin stared back at him with a blank expression.
"That smell is strong enough to knock out a dragon!" Gaius looked slightly befuddled as he stepped back; he made the point of taking a large breath of fresh air.
'Great... Thank you for that blow to my confidence.'Merlin groaned "It's not that strong is it? And..." Merlin paused then pulled a frustrated face. "Your joking with me aren't you?"
Gaius laughed briefly then smiled. "I might be, although you really have put too much on. Who are you trying to impress?"
"No one!" Merlin scowled at himself as he replied a bit too quickly.
"I see... Maybe I'll finally meet this mystery woman tonight." Gaius smiled then gathered up the rest of his things. "I was talking to Morgana earlier about how infatuated you are at the-"
"What?! You told her?" Merlin almost yelled out in disbelief.
"It's ok I doubt she mock you about it, from what I've been hearing Morgana also has a secret someone hidden away and..." Gaius, who was looking back and forth between his things and Merlin, widened his eyes as he saw the blush on Merlin's cheeks. "Oh no... I know that look, please tell me you and Morgana aren't-"
"No! Of course not!" Merlin cut him off quickly but he could hear the hesitation in his own voice, which meant Gaius, had too.
"For someone with such a big secret you are a terrible liar Merlin! Do I need to remind you she's Uther's ward! How could you be so stupid?" Gaius threw his arms up in the air as he yelled at the young warlock.
"Nothing's going on!" Merlin protested weakly, it was half true; nothing was going on yet, not really. But there was something there; Morgana had made that very clear today.
"There better not be." He said sternly as he pointed a finger at Merlin, warning him. "Believe it or not I'm actually quite fond of your head attached to your shoulders. But Uther would soon change that if you got involved with the lady Morgana!"
"Don't you think I don't know that?" Merlin snapped, his face began to warp with sorrow as he fought back the tears that threatened to spill out. "Do you know how it feels…? To love someone but never be able to be with them or tell them how you feel? That you have to spend your life watching from a distance and only ever friends for fear of execution or worse? And…" Merlin couldn't finish his desperate rant; he turned away from his guardian not wanting Gaius to see him break down. 'My life… My destiny… Why do they require so many sacrifices? I can't be the person I am, I can't be with the person I love…'
Merlin sat down on one of the desks with his back to Gaius, looking up and out of one of the windows; tears had slowly started to stream down his face. "And I do, look at her a lot. I know I shouldn't but I can't help it... I feel so drawn to her, in body, soul and magic. She's just so... Her smile Gaius, it's so beautiful so perfect, her lips utter nothing but good and kindness ... Her eyes, sometimes I look into them and I see the loneliness that I used to know all too well and I just want to put my arms around her... Tell her she's not a monster and she's isn't alone, and never will be." Merlin paused as he wiped his eyes with his sleeve.
A hand gently cupped his shoulder. "Merlin... I'm sorry." Gaius spoke softly; all his past annoyance and anger had completely fled his tone, instead all Merlin could hear was his pity. "But some things… they are just not meant to be."
'Not yet maybe.' Merlin sighed, there was no point arguing. "I know..." He turned around to face Gaius who looked at him with nothing but love and care.
"Come let's join the festivities and get something warm inside you."
"Yeah... Can't miss an opportunity to see Arthur make a prat of himself." Merlin said and shared a smile and a chuckle with Gaius as they left the physician's chambers.
Merlin's spirits quickly picked up as they passed through the castle, the sound of merriment and light hearted banter enveloped the passageways, the smells of the lavish delights that would be lining the tables in the hall had escaped there place of rest and wafted deep throughout the castle. The pleasant smells of hog roast's, roasted vegetables and pies of all fillings flooded Merlin's nose and was enough to send his taste buds wild. By the time Merlin and Gaius had arrived at the great hall where the nobles would be feasting and drinking, Merlin was buzzing with excitement. Despite Gaius's words earlier about Morgana, he was going to enjoy the night. 'And enjoy Morgana's company while I can.'
Merlin's eyes darted to meet the faces of those already present; Arthur and some of the knights one of which Merlin recognised as Sir Leon, were standing by a pillar boasting away with each other, Uther was engaged in talks with Geoffrey while other nobles occupied some of the seats. 'No Morgana yet.' He thought with a pout.
Gaius gave Merlin a nudge and indicated for him to get to work. Although the festivities were meant to be enjoyed by all, servants still had to serve the nobles at the start of evening before everyone was seated, and had to lay out the tables with the cuisine, then the rest of the celebrations were theirs to do as they please. Merlin headed over to where the platters and jugs were and began servings the lords and ladies of the court as they slowly poured into the hall.
There were countless different brews on offer, more wines, ales, ciders and meads then Merlin had ever laid eyes on. Many of which had unique aromas and colouring, the only place Merlin had ever smelt so many odours originating from a variety of coloured liquids was Gaius's chambers. Some looked more like tonics and potions then alcohol. 'It's almost as if Gaius has been let loose in a tavern and experimented.' He had yet to try any for himself but from the faces of those he poured drinks out for, he guessed there tastes were as varied as there looks. He had to try hard to suppress fits of laughter as some nobles would pull faces that shouldn't have been humanly possible.
"Merlin!" Arthur's voice carried over the crowd of people. "Bring me a drink."
'Destiny calls.' Merlin thought to himself with a pout. "Which one my lord?"
Arthur just waved his hand in an impatient gesture. "I don't care just hurry it up will you."
Merlin turned to look at all the different pitchers; a smirk crossed his lips as an idea came to him. 'Don't care you say... Well if you insist.'Merlin looked for what one he guessed was either the strongest or the worst tasting.
"Gaius?" He hissed over to his guardian in a low tone. "Which of these tastes the most like manure?"
Gaius frowned and headed over to the table. "If you mean which one tastes the most unpleasant then..." He paused as he looked over the contents then pointed to one of the pitchers filled with a light green liquid with a yellow tinge. "I hear that one is most unpleasant, tastes like rotten fish and cabbage with a hint of sour cheese."
Merlin almost threw up in his mouth and made a sound of disgust. "Eugh... Why would someone make something like that?"
Gaius chuckled and picked up the pitcher. "Apparently it has a good kick after... Why what do you want it for?"
"Merlin!" Arthur shouted from across the hall, giving him an annoyed look.
Merlin gave Gaius silly grin and took the pitcher from him. "Duty calls."
Before Gaius could reply Merlin hurried around the hall with the pitcher to where Arthur was waiting impatiently and poured him out a goblet.
"Finally, was beginning to think I might die of thirst." Arthur didn't look at the contents of his goblet as he raised it to his lips and took a large gulp.
Merlin waited expectedly for Arthur's reaction, and it seemed he didn't have to wait long as Arthur sprayed out the contents of his mouth in disgust, soaking Merlin's face. 'And why didn't I see that coming...'
They stared at each other for a few moments, the look of disgust on Arthur's face slowly changed to one of amusement as the green liquid dripped from Merlin's face. "Thanks for that Arthur." Merlin said and feigned a smile, he was sure he heard the sound of Gaius chuckling in the background.
Arthur laughed and patted Merlin hard on the shoulder. "You know me Merlin, always the sharer and..." Arthur paused and wrinkled his nose after sniffing hard. "Is that... You?"
Merlin wiped his face vigorously with his jackets sleeve and sighed. "Yes it's me, its lavender."
Arthur had a double take and stared at his servant in bewilderment. "Why do you smell of lavender? Honestly Merlin you're such a girl at times."
'It's going to be a long night...' "There's nothing wrong with wanting to smell nice, and all you have to do is ask and I'll give you some."
"And why would I want to smell like a flower?"
"Oh I don't know... Maybe to make yourself more appealing to Gwen?" Merlin said with a sheepish grin, his voice just loud enough for Arthur to hear.
Arthur made shushing noises as he blushed and looked around to see if anyone might have heard. "Merlin you really are an idiot at times!" The Prince hissed. "And besides I don't to make myself more appealing, I'm... Wait, you did this for your mystery woman."
'Great... Way to give Arthur another reason to mock me.'"I err... I never said that!" Merlin casually looked around, not wanting to look Arthur in the eye.
"You don't have to; it's written all over your face... Although, you might want to keep your distance from her, the smell is rather strong. You don't want to knock the poor girl out." Arthur said with a silly smile as he teased Merlin.
"It's not that bad!" Merlin protested with annoyance. 'At least I hope not, last thing I want it to do is repel Morgana.'
If Arthur had planned to tease Merlin some more on the subject it never came, as the Prince's eyes focused over behind Merlin, his mouth wide open. Noticing Arthur's gaze, Merlin followed it and looked over to the halls entrance to where Morgana and Gwen were how standing.
Morgana had changed from her earlier attire and into a deep blue gown that Merlin would recognise anywhere. 'It's the gown she had on when I first laid eyes on her...'She looked even more beautiful in it now then she had the first time, even more tempting and hot then when the gown had been half way down her body.
A bright blue sapphire hanging on a silver necklace laid snug sitting just above her chest, her raven curls trailed wildly around her shoulders, almost encasing the precious gem in darkness and mystery. Her lips were as deep and crimson as ever against her ivory skin, so inviting and yet so forbidden. 'How could such a vision of beauty be interested in someone like me? She's perfect.'
As if sensing his eyes burning at her, Morgana's head snapped in his direction, their gazes locking as their eyes met, 'Sapphires and emeralds.' Merlin swallowed quietly as her smile slowly grew, a look of desire filled her features. Merlin felt his cheeks warm then returned a grin and felt a sense of satisfaction as Morgana blushed in reply.
Her eyes spoke to him in a way her lips wouldn't be able to in present company, she was giving him an 'I want you' look, or so Merlin believed anyway. The deep green in her eyes swirled with unspoken lust and desire, luring not only his body, but his heart and soul. What he wouldn't give to lock his lips with hers and peer into her orbs, into her very heart and soul. It was said that a person's eyes are the gateway to their soul. 'I wonder if that's true or just old religion mumble jumble.'
He watched as her beautiful red lips danced as she said something to Gwen. Morgana turned her face slightly towards her maid but never broke eye contact with Merlin; he saw a smile creep up on Gwen's lips as she looked over to Merlin also. 'Is she... Talking about me?'
"Beautiful isn't she?" Arthur said out of the blue, he kept his voice low, his tone was full of his sincerity.
Merlin knew Arthur was referring to Gwen but replied as if he meant Morgana. "Yeah... She most definitely is." His answer was mostly for his own benefit then gulped as the woman walked over to them.
'Why are they coming over here?'Merlin wondered, now that most had arrived and food had been laid out, everyone had begun taking their seats ready to enjoy the feast. The world seemed to grind to a halt as the full view of Morgana came into his line of sight, her gaze didn't waver as she approached. The elegant gown clung tight enough to her waist that every step she took towards him highlighted the curves of her hips as they swung hypnotically side to side. The gown trailed down legs that Merlin sometimes had to wander if those hidden slender limbs ever ended.
"Evening Morgana, Guinevere." Arthur said politely as they reached them.
"My lord." Gwen smiled in acknowledgement and bowed slightly to her Prince. "Merlin, good to see you all cleaned up now." Merlin rolled his eyes as Morgana and Gwen shared a smirk.
"Arthur." Morgana replied stiffly with a nod of her head, "Merlin." She acknowledged him next in a much softer tone of voice, a smile flickered at the corner of her mouth.
"My lady." Merlin said formally and bowed slightly, his eyes fixing on hers. "Gwen, you both look great."
Morgana chuckled lightly. "Why thank you Merlin."
Arthur shot Merlin a disapproving look then sighed as he rolled his eyes. "You might want to take your seats, the feast is about to start." Arthur inclined his head towards his father who had just taken his seat at the head of the table.
"I'm aware of that. But first I thought we could arrange a little... Shall we say wager?" Morgana asked with a devious grin.
"What did you have in mind?" Arthur's curiosity was peaked and smiled at Morgana. 'What you up to Morgana?'Merlin eyed her with suspicion then looked at Gwen who seemed to be fighting back a grin.
"Just something simple, first one to pass out from drinking loses." Merlin couldn't help but admire her as she pulled the cutest innocent look when she proposed her idea.
Arthur scoffed; he didn't make the effort to hide his disapproval. "That's hardly appropriate."
"Aww forfeiting already?" Morgana looked at Gwen and the girls shared a smirk. "Such a shame... But if you're afraid to be beaten by a girl..." 'Ah Morgana... Using Arthur's pride against him, how deviously clever... And attractive.'
"Wait a second I'm not afraid, nor am I forfeiting!" He looked at Merlin hoping for the same sort of support that Gwen was giving Morgana, but Merlin just shrugged. Arthur mouthed a sarcastic thanks to him then turned back to the girls. "I was just... Ok fine! What does the winner get? Or what's the loser expected to do?"
"Boasting rights for the winner and... A favour owed to the winner from the loser. Which could be anything, at any time. Do we have a deal?"
He thought about it for a second then nodded. "You're on Morgana."
"Oh there is one condition... To ensure we keep drinking and don't cheat... Gwen will be joining you in Merlin's place, and Merlin will join me." 'So that's what your agenda is, and you know Arthur won't refuse the chance to be with Gwen. So devious!' Merlin couldn't help but grin.
Arthur casted a glance at Gwen who smiled at him, Merlin saw the blush that appeared on the Princes cheeks before coughing into his hand. "Fair enough."
"Good, now I believe Uther is wanting to start so... Come along Merlin." Morgana excused herself with a grin and pulled briefly at Merlin's arm as she passed him.
Arthur gave Merlin a look before he left that said, 'Behave yourself.' Morgana and Merlin moved around to the head of the table where Morgana took the seat on Uther's left and Merlin took the seat next to her. He looked over to see Arthur and Gwen sit on Uther's other side and the Prince was immediately engaged in a conversation with his father.
Merlin felt slightly uncomfortable and a bit out of place sitting at the head table and so close to Uther. Gaius was seated not that far from him and must of sensed his uneasiness since he tossed Merlin a reassuring smile.
Morgana must have also noticed how he felt as she prodded him in the side and lent close to his ear. "Relax Merlin." She said softly and almost instantly he did. "I won't bite... Not till later anyway." She whispered the last bit seductively to him.
Merlin blushed then grinned at Morgana, he was going to give as well as he got tonight. "Promises promises my lady."
A/N: So! Is Merlin right to be depressed? And is he such a Girl like Arthur says? ;) I hope you enjoyed Chapter 5 ^^ Please review if you have time would love to hear your suggestions or feedback. Chapter 6 (Second half of Chapter 5) is just about ready and can be posted as early as tomorrow night if you so wish? :P It picks up immediately from this Chapter but in Morgana's POV. Also, Chapter 7 will bring about the M rating but more on that at the end of Chapter 6.