Chapter 1
Something Quite Special
Midnight had long since passed. Arthur staggered against Merlin exhausted in body and spirit after his experience in the woods and Merlin was far too proud of him to goad him. Elyan was safe in Gaius' care and now it fell to Merlin to take care of Arthur.
Arthur had been incredibly noble and courageous in his response to the druid boy's spirit. Merlin knew he was seeing more and more glimpses of the legendary king he would become. The vulnerability and remorse, the willingness to sacrifice and to make changes had been breathtaking. Arthur was indeed special.
As he set the royal boots aside and pulled the soft covers down, Uther's words from years ago popped into Merlin's head.
"This merits something quite special."
True, at that moment, Uther's idea of a boon had felt more like a punishment. To both of them.
But, he reflected as he maneuvered the weary prince into bed, when Uther made him Arthur's manservant, it truly was the greatest reward he could have given.