Finally, the end of the day.

The auditorium was partially crowded, about what you'd expect for a high school drama production. Apart from the numerous rows of red leather seats, there was a medium sized table sitting in the middle, two tiny maps lit, enough to light the judge's papers. Mrs. H and Uther sat gingerly at it's end.

The first student walked onto the stage, trying out for the main part. The second student the same. Then the third, then fourth. Then Guinevere took the stage, she sang beautifully, her poise and dignity lending a helping hand with the persuasion of the judges. She did a small courtesy before gleefully leaping off stage. A few more auditioned, and then it was Arthur's turn.

Merlin sat in his seat, wide eyed and mouth parted, just hanging without acknowledgment. He listened to Arthur audition, his song beautifully ringing throughout the auditorium. He had a hidden talent. The stuck up jock Merlin had met was gone, and the loveable goof he'd come to know hidden. Standing before him was a famous singer, full of talent and pride as he beamed with confidence. It was... just amazing.

Arthur finished his piece and it was Merlin's turn. He almost failed to reach the stage thanks to his shock. His legs wobbled slightly and his stomach flipped as he stepped up. He wasn't exactly the most confident, but he wanted to be in the play, main character or not. So Merlin sang his heart out, raising his voice with the volume of a lion, and the confidence of a powerful man. Some of the students who were chatting in the front paused to look at him, and listen. Mrs. H dropped her jaw. Uther didn't blink. The song ended sadly, its tune silently fading into the auditorium air.

Merlin was magnificent, and Arthur was the first to start clapping. When the entire auditorium was clapping, Merlin knew that on the stage was where he wanted to be. He smiled politely before exiting the stage. Gwen waiting for him, seat open at her side.

Some people didn't even audition after that, they just left.

"Hey." Arthur grinned, catching up with him as he was leaving the auditorium. "I had no clue you could sing like that."

Merlin blushed a bit, "Yeah, well... I don't exactly show it off much. You were pretty good too. I wasn't expecting that."

Laughing, Arthur slapped a friendly hand to his back. The two walked side by side through the hall, "So where you off to?" he asked.

"Locker, then home I guess."

"Oh cool, got your own car then?"

Merlin shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans, attempting to stay composed, "No, I walk."

"You walk? So... you live close by?"

Merlin shrugged, "Not exactly..."

Arthur chuckled. They reached Merlin's locker and sadly departed. Stooping to his knees, Merlin fiddled with his lock. He stuffed a few papers into his bag before slinging it over his shoulders. He kicked it shut with ease before starting for the door. To his pleasant surprise, Arthur was waiting for him. "Hey..." he called, "What are you still doing here?"

Arthur nodded to the clear door and Merlin's heart sank. The rain was pouring down heavily, and he'd failed to bring an umbrella. "Shi-"

"Hold that thought." Arthur grinned, reaching into his pocket. He dangled his keys in front of Merlin, "C'mon I'll give you a ride. The weather is crappy."

Merlin smiled, "Thanks. Not too much trouble?"

"None."

The two of them rushed across the lot, through the rain and climbed into the little red car Toyota. Arthur flipped his hair, spitting water at Merlin's face, who flicked the water from his back at Arthur. "Prat!"

They started giggling pretty hard before Merlin noticed the faint M still printed on Arthur's cheek. He reached out to touch it, "Sorry about that by the way..."

Arthur slapped his hand away before turning a light shade of red. Was he blushing? Merlin furrowed his brow with confusion, but Arthur refused to acknowledge him. Merlin finally consented with the silence and turned to face the window. "Two more blocks then take a left..."

Arthur nodded quietly.

When they reached Merlin's house he grabbed up his bag quickly, maybe a little bit frustrated. "Thanks for the ride."

He turned to leave, "Hey, Merlin."

Merlin turned back slowly, leaning down a bit to make eye contact. "Sorry about that, I just don't feel so good."

"Oh..."

"I'll see you tomorrow in class?"

Merlin grinned, "Yeah. Besides, we still need to finish that stupid poster."

"Ohh! Does that mean I get to draw some more stars?"

Giggling, "No way! I'll draw on your face again!"

Arthur made a pouty face, only managing to hold it for a few seconds before he starting laughing as well. "Alright. See you tomorrow Merlin."

"See ya!" He waved as Arthur pulled away. He shook his head, muttering to himself, "That cabbagehead is gonna be the death of me."