See Chapter 1 for warnings & info

Notes: Headcannon casting: Robert Downey Jr. as Sir Robert.

Gaius was pleased with the progress Merlin was making. His wound was healing nicely, and that in itself was a comfort considering how much worse it could have been. Gaius had initially feared infection and having the unenviable task of amputating Merlin's arm. "How are you feeling this morning?" inquired the physician. He stepped toward the bed and sat down, reaching out to give the warlock a cursory examination.

"Fine. I guess." Merlin shifted a little, though he didn't keep Gaius from looking him over. It had been two days. TWO DAYS. He took a breath to keep from shouting that fact and instead turned hopeful eyes to Gaius. "Is Arthur back? Is he alright?" Not a word. Two days and not a word. Arthur had promised he'd come the next day, and Merlin still hadn't heard a thing. Between that and being trapped in bed, he was on his last very frayed nerve with the whole situation. "Has he been to see me?" Perhaps he'd been sleeping and Gaius thought it best that he not be disturbed.

"Merlin," sighed Gaius, "the prince has yet to return." He had been loathe to share the news with the warlock, as Gaius feared Merlin would set out after Arthur at the first opportunity. "It appears the siege is taking longer than expected," the physician explained. "This robber baron, Irongron, seized the keep of a noble while he was away. Although Arthur and his men must breach its fortifications, I'm certain he shall win through in the end."

Merlin's eyes went wide, and what color had found its way into his face faded at once. "Gaius! I should be with him," he protested, already climbing out of bed before the physician could say anything. Though the shoulder was still sore, there was no sharp pain anymore, and Merlin had seen the wound well enough to know that it was knit together as much as it could be so soon. "He won't be safe. Anything could happen..." The very thought that something could happen to Arthur was enough to set the young sorcerer's pulse racing. "I have to go and help."

"No, you musn't," Gaius insisted, moving to stand between Merlin and the door. "Merlin, the King has already sent word that if you're well enough to be out of bed, then you're well enough to see after his guest." The physician was not unsympathetic to the warlock's plight, but he did not want Merlin to incur Uther's wrath for disobedience. He smiled softly, adding, "If Arthur has not returned by tonight, then I will not object to you leaving to find him."

Though Merlin didn't like the idea of waiting, he wasn't so stupid as to think he was in a position where he could afford to anger Uther Pendragon. The sorcerer sighed and finally nodded. "Alright. Tonight, then." Lips set in a determined line, Merlin lifted his chin and tried to look as calm and together as possible given the circumstances. "So who's the guest, then?" It wasn't often that he got assigned to serve others for more than one off tasks. Generally when Arthur was gone, he simply helped Gaius instead. /Either means this guy's really important... or really out of favor with the king./ Despite his saving of Arthur's life on more than one occasion, Merlin was pretty sure that Uther thought he was barely sane and even more marginally competent.

"Sir Robert Wesley," Gaius explained, his aged shoulders visibly relaxing. "It was his castle that was overrun while he was away. Uther invited him to stay in Camelot until things have settled. They're old friends." Resting a hand on Merlin's uninjured shoulder, the physician stepped aside and encouraged him to rest at the table. "I do want you to take it easy, Merlin. No heavy lifting or anything that might strain your wound. I'm certain Sir Robert will understand."

Merlin was finding it exceedingly difficult not to sulk at the idea of being foisted off on some noble. On the other hand, the man was a friend of Uther's, which meant impressing him was important. "I'll be careful, Gaius. Has this Sir Robert arrived yet?" He wasn't eager to work, precisely, but Merlin knew that time would pass more quickly if he had something to do than if he was simply sitting around and waiting for Arthur's safe return. /And he will return safely,/ Merlin thought fervently.

"He arrived this morning," Gaius confirmed, pleased to find Merlin focusing on his duties and not tearing after Arthur as he'd feared. "If you feel well enough, Sir Robert is staying in the guest quarters on the other side of the north tower." The older man's expression sobered as he added, "Again, I want you to promise to take it easy. You'll be no good to anyone - especially Arthur - if you hurt yourself."

"Right... yes. Of course." The promises were accompanied by a faint smile, and Merlin hoped he sounded convincing as he made his way out of Gaius' rooms. It was strange walking down the halls of Camelot and knowing he wasn't going to Arthur's rooms. /Stop dwelling. It doesn't help anything,/ he chided himself before plastering on a smile and knocking on the heavy door of the guest quarters. Uther would expect him to be on his best behavior, so he needed to focus even if his heart was with Arthur.

Sir Robert strode across to the door, and having expected some dour, overly plump servant of the female persuasion, was instantly enchanted by the young man waiting on the other side. His anger at having been kept waiting vanished in an instant, and the former knight's eyes fairly glittered as they raked over Merlin's form. "Well, hello there," he greeted the boy with a seductive purr. Sir Robert rested his hand on the frame of the door, leaning in closer. "And who might you be?"

Merlin found himself blushing under the scrutiny but answered promptly, "I'm Arth- er, Prince Arthur's servant, Merlin. The king asked that I see to you while you're here." /As much as I can anyway./ The truth was that Merlin knew he'd probably spend as much time coordinating efforts with other servants as he would doing things himself. Still, it was a load off the other staff for him to take on even some of the duties rather than their having to deal with all of it. "Did you, um, need anything, Sir?"

"Now that is a loaded question," teased Sir Robert, arching an eyebrow as he noted the becoming flush coloring Merlin's skin. He stood aside, extending his hand and allowing the boy entry into the room. As Merlin passed by, Sir Robert closed his eyes and inhaled the boy's sweet musk. "Ahhhh, yes..." Closing the door, he turned his full attention on Merlin. "So, you serve Arthur exclusively? That must keep you on your toes. Tell me Merlin, is the prince as arrogant and difficult as ever?"

The question seemed to put Merlin at ease, and he finally cracked a smile. "Yes, Sir. At times. I mean, I love serving him," he hurried to add, not wanting Robert to report back to Uther that he'd been bad-mouthing the man's son, "but he can be, um, a handful." Hoping he wasn't overstepping his bounds too thoroughly, the servant ventured, "You know the prince then, Sir?" Obviously he did, but it seemed like the least leading way to inquire how Robert knew Arthur and for how long.

Having only been in Merlin's presence for a short time, and Sir Robert recognized a kindred spirit. When the boy spoke of Arthur, his handsome face lit up and his beautiful eyes glittered. It was clear that Merlin, like himself, was quite taken with Camelot's crown prince. "Yes, I've known Arthur most of his life," the former knight explained, a knowing smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "He's always been... rambunctious, shall we say? Despite that, he's grown into an handsome man. Wouldn't you agree?"

Merlin couldn't help but smile at that, though his cheeks colored once again. Indeed the blush spread to the tips of his ears. "I haven't noticed, Sir," he answered as casually as possible. Of course he had noticed. Anyone with eyes would see that Arthur was handsome, and he felt foolish for having even pretended not to see the very obvious fact that Arthur was gorgeous. That he'd hidden the answer was more suspicious than a positive response. /Silly./ "That is, I mean, it doesn't really... it's not my place to say."

Sir Robert found the warmth coloring Merlin's features even more becoming, and his own smile brightened. "There's no need to be shy, certainly not around me." He tossed Merlin a conspiratorial wink as a bit of encouragement. "Relax, be yourself. I often tire of servants who are afraid they might say the wrong thing." As a way in which to bond with Merlin, Sir Robert produced a locket from the folds of his ruffled shirt. He opened the clasp and revealed a small painting of Arthur within. "Arthur has never looked twice at me, but I do keep this close to my heart," he confided with a sigh of sadness. "A man can dream, can't he?"

Merlin felt a shock of surprise at the sight of the perfect replica of Arthur's handsome face staring back up at him. "Yes... I suppose so." He had dreamed enough himself whether he wanted to or not. The dreams of Arthur came whether he wanted them to or not, both at night and in rather pleasant daydreams which the real Arthur often shook him free from. "It isn't his choice who he notices, really. Someday the King will find him a proper match, someone to be a good queen." Merlin hardly realized that he was speaking the words aloud until he realized how intently Robert was listening. "I mean, that's what... it's what I've always thought."

Sir Robert's heart clenched at the forlorn sadness in Merlin's voice. "But you don't really believe that, do you?" he said softly. "Granted, Uther will insist on Arthur marrying a proper young lady; however, I've known far too many who have embarked down that road and never found love. It's all for show, isn't it? A facade to make the kingdom look good in the eyes of its subjects." Robert smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "You've been right under Arthur's nose all this time..." He paused, tipping Merlin's chin up with a gentle press of his finger, "...and he hasn't noticed how you feel?" The former knight sighed, "Forgive me, but the prince is a fool. A servant you may well be, but your heart shines true. I could never ignore one so beautiful."

Merlin went white for a moment, nervous at the touch, and then red all over again as embarrassment set in once more. "Yeah, well... nothing special about me, really," he protested. Was it really so obvious? It must have been. Even Gaius saw that he wanted the prince. It was embarrassing to think that his feelings showed so easily to all the world. /To everyone but Arthur./ "No reason for Arthur to notice." Except that their destinies were supposed to be one and the same. They were meant to be entwined somehow, bound together by fate. He thought of the flare he had felt, the way his magic responded to the simple touch of Arthur's thumb to his lips. /It would be dangerous if he did notice./

"I beg to differ," countered Sir Robert, meeting the servant's gaze. As taken with Arthur Pendragon as he had always been, and having rarely glanced at another, the nobleman could instantly see something special in Merlin. It pained him to recognize the similar sadness of knowing one could never have Arthur. Deciding to bring some cheer into Merlin's life, Robert clapped his hands and then rubbed them together. "Do you feel up to taking a stroll with me?" he asked, moving toward one of the stained glass windows and casting his eyes outside. "It's been a while since I last visited Camelot, and I'd be honored to have such a lovely young man on my arm."

"Of course, Sir," Merlin agreed at once. He was feeling antsy thinking about Arthur, and after having been cooped up inside for days already, the sorcerer was more than a bit on edge. Some sunlight and pleasant conversation might be just the cure. /Until tonight. Then if Arthur isn't back... then I can go./ The thought was comforting, a security blanket that he clutched close against his heart - just as Gaius had intended it to be when he made the promise. "The grounds are quite beautiful." Uther made it a point to always keep things in top condition to show his castle as well as his kingdom in the best possible light.

"Let's be off, then." Sir Robert reached for his cloak, draping it across his arm as he offered Merlina cordial bow and allowed the servant to take the lead. He, too, had grown worried over the long siege to retake his humble castle. And yet he was certain that Arthur would win in the end. The prince had made quite a reputation for himself as a fighter. "Tell me, Merlin, how long have you been serving Arthur?"

It felt good stretching his legs, and the healing wound wasn't even complaining for the moment. "Nearly a year now," Merlin realized with a sort of wonder. "Guess I didn't realize. It's been... eventful." Bizarre, in truth, but there was no way to explain to Robert all that he'd seen. There were too many secrets embedded in the stories - and moreso in the solutions to the problems they had faced. "Has Camelot always been like that?" It seemed as if the kingdom were a hub of unusual activity.

Sir Robert laughed, "Oh, you haven't seen anything yet." He strolled through the garden, which was lush and filled with brightly colored flowers and immaculately trimmed hedges. It was a glorious day, considering the time of the year, and Robert found the scenery even more breathtaking with Merlin at his side. Although Arthur had dismissed his numerous advances, he found it incredible that the crown prince never noticed one as lovely as Merlin right under his nose. It was probably Uther's influence, Robert decided with a mental
sigh. This thought brought the topic of conversation back to Arthur. "An entire year at Arthur's side?" he commented, "It must be difficult keeping your feelings hidden."

Again Merlin found himself somewhat at a disadvantage. He blushed but finally nodded his agreement with the words. "Yes, Sir. And no at the same time." It was difficult to explain, but Merlin knew that his being quietly in love with Arthur had led him to be even more loyal, to work even harder to keep the prince safe - and certainly that had worked well. "It's my job to serve him. Caring for him," and how strange was it to say those words?, "only makes me more aware of what he needs. Someday Arthur will be king. Whatever I can do to see that he is the greatest king Camelot has ever seen, I will do gladly."

Sir Robert admired Merlin's loyalty and his steadfast resolve to support the Prince from behind the scenes. But it also pained him to think of one so young and full of life pinning away for someone who might never love him in return. As he and Merlin walked beneath a stone arch and a sudden breeze lifted Robert's wavy dark hair from his brow. Pausing, the former knight, wearing a curious expression, tilted his head at his companion and wondered aloud, "How are you feeling? Gaius told me of your wound. I do hope our stroll won't be too strenuous for you."

Merlin immediately gave a slight shake of his head. "No, sir. It's actually nice being out of doors again. I think anymore sitting alone in my room and reading and I might have gone mad." Especially when he added on top of it all how terribly he was missing Arthur. At least now he wasn't cooped up inside thinking about it. He was talking to someone, moving around. "I probably shouldn't overdo it, though," Merlin admitted reluctantly. As much as he would have liked to continue on walking for the better of the day, he doubted that would be the smartest solution to his problems.

"Indeed," Sir Robert said, with a slight nod of his head. "I promise not to work you too hard. My needs are meager. Actually, I have very few servants at home. Uther thinks I'm mad, but I prefer to do things for myself." With the wind channeling its way through the arch, it made for a cool resting spot. Robert closed his eyes and took a deep, soothing breath. After a moment, he regarded Merlin again. "I admire your spirit," he confessed, his eyes twinkling with admiration. "You risked your life to save Arthur's. Somehow I get the feeling that wasn't the first time. Am I right?"

Merlin blushed at that but couldn't disagree. He nodded his agreement and shrugged, "It was how I got my position. I saved Prince Arthur in front of the king, and he off- well, he assigned me to be the prince's servant." It hadn't been an offer, it had been an order. That was simply how Uther worked. The man demanded, he never asked. "It's my job to look out for him and all, so..." Merlin gave a little shrug but couldn't help feeling proud that Robert seemed to think so much of what he'd done. "I'd do whatever I needed to do to keep him safe."

Sir Robert considered that for a moment. Then, he smiled and reached out to caress Merlin's cheekbone with his fingers. "I wonder if Arthur realizes what a precious gift you are?" he said half to himself. As entranced as Robert had always been with Camelot's Crown Prince, he could not deny Merlin's beauty or the spark of attraction. "If you ever tire of waiting for him to notice you," the former knight started, his tone rich and seductive as he took a step closer, "I'm always here."

Merlin was shocked by the offer, by the man's obvious attraction. No one had ever really come on to him before - not and meant it, anyway - and he honestly wasn't sure what to say. The burst of sound from the courtyard thankfully drew away Robert's attention and did away with the necessity of a direct response.

The moment was broken by a commotion at the front gates, followed by a rousing cheer. Robert stepped out from beneath the arch, taking a glance toward the sound and then offered Merlin a warm grin. "Arthur's returned."

The young man stood at once, hope shining in his eyes again. He had been terrified that Arthur would be hurt or, worse, lost on the campaign. It was foolish considering how many battles he had weathered successfully on his own, but Merlin hated not being there as an extra layer of protection for the prince. It was the one way in which he was truly able to be significant to Arthur even if the prince never noticed. "I am glad," Merlin answered, quick to add, "And it must mean that your home as well is safe once more."

Sir Robert breathed a sigh of relief, "I do hope you're right, Merlin." He took note of the boy's expression and the way in which his eyes brightened knowing Arthur was safe. "Perhaps you should go to Arthur's side?" he suggested, again his smile warm and thoughtful. "I'm certain he has more need of you now than I do."

Merlin hesitated, not wanting to shirk his duty or make Robert feel that his kindness wasn't appreciated. But more than anything he wanted to see Arthur and be satisfied that the prince was well and whole. "I would like to check on him, make sure that he is well cared for." Merlin's bright blue eyes flashed up to the man's face. "I will not leave you long without help." After all it was Robert to whom he was assigned while the man was in court, and Uther would not appreciate him turning his back on that fact.

Merlin's heart was light while he made his way as quickly as he dared to the sounds of cheering. And there he was. Arthur sat atop his horse, helmet off but armor still on. He looked every inch the hero that he was, and Merlin found himself staring openly. He'd known that he missed Arthur but hadn't realized quite how much until he saw the prince before him.

Exhausted but triumphant, Arthur eased down from his horse and found Merlin standing at the back of the crowd. His first instinct was to rush over to him, but the prince tamped down that urge and weaved his way toward him at a sedate pace. "Merlin," he began, trying not to sound overly pleased to see his servant. "Tell me, how's your shoulder?"

Merlin wanted badly to throw his arms around Arthur, but that would have hurt his shoulder and made a scene besides. "Better, sire. Honestly, it's hardly bothering me now. I was more worried about you," he added almost shyly. They rarely made such admissions to one another, but the feeling had run too deep for him to even really think of hiding it. "Gaius told me what happened. The King has asked me to serve Sir Robert while he's here as well, so... but now that you're back..." His tone was uncertain and hopeful all at once. A word from Arthur to the king might well mean his being back in the prince's service before dinner time.

"Oh..." In a rare moment for Arthur, he faltered. His father was meddling again, foisting Merlin upon Sir Robert in a vain attempt to keep them apart. When would he learn that Merlin was his servant, no one else's? "I think it might be for the best if you steer clear of Sir Robert," he advised, unlatching his grimy armor. "He's a bit too... hands-on, shall we say? I'll have a talk with my father. Meanwhile," Arthur paused, and wearing a crooked grin, shoved his helmet and other discarded bits of armor into Merlin's hands, "do something about this, will you?"

Merlin blushed at the mention of Sir Robert's forward tendencies. He had noticed that himself, though in a way, he hadn't minded. It was nice being noticed, and Robert was rather handsome. The only problem was that the man's presence didn't leave him feeling intoxicated the way a simple look from Arthur could. "Of course, Sire," Merlin answered promptly before offering Arthur a grin that showed clearly just how pleased he was to have the blond back. He hefted the armor and carried it obediently up to Arthur's room. Just being in the space and setting about the same old chore of polishing the silver surface put Merlin's soul at ease as if the universe were suddenly falling properly back into place again. /When did I stop minding doing this?/

Stripping off his chain mail, Arthur collapsed onto his bed. He exhaled heavily, tossing an arm above his head. Every last muscle in his body ached and Arthur couldn't even muster the strength to wiggle his big toe. He did, however, glance at Merlin happily polishing his armor and that sight in itself warmed him. Going into battle without him had felt distinctly wrong, but Arthur wasn't about to risk Merlin getting wounded... or worse... again. "Is your shoulder well enough to fix me a bath?" he asked, knowing he probably sounded overly concerned. "I don't think I can stand the combination of blood, dirt and sweat any longer."

"Of course," Merlin answered without hesitation. In truth he knew he'd have to get a little help carrying the water, but that hardly mattered. He wasn't going to give the whole of the task to someone else, and it took only a moment to summon another of the servants to aide him. In no time there was a tub filled and waiting in the room, and Merlin was laying a clean towel out to be ready for Arthur as well. "Your bath is ready, Sire." He supposed it was more than slightly inappropriate to look forward to the task quite so eagerly, but Merlin couldn't help it. He loved the glimpses that he got of Arthur's lean, muscular form and the act of serving the man so intimately.

Using what little strength he had left, Arthur hoisted himself up from the comfort of his bed and shuffled toward the waiting tub. He peeled off his clothing along the way, tossing his garments over his shoulder with the knowledge that Merlin would dutifully catch them before they hit the floor. The steamy water beckoned him into its warm embrace, and Arthur groaned as the liquid caressed his tired body. He closed his eyes and laid his head back, relaxing himself. Aware of Merlin's presence, he asked, "Did I miss anything while I was gone?"

Merlin did his best to keep his gaze off of Arthur. He was always sure somehow that the future king was aware when he let himself stare too long - and yet it was difficult not to stare at the gorgeous body slipping beneath the rippling water. "What? Oh, no. Nothing. I've been stuck in my room until today." /Waiting for you./ But Merlin suppressed the urge to voice that bitter thought out loud. "Then Gaius told me that the King had asked me to see to Sir Robert." Merlin considered whether he should push that issue and finally looked back to the tub and Arthur's muscular back over the top of it. /What was I say- oh,
right./ "What you said about him earlier... I mean... he seemed pretty nice to me."

Arthur made a disapproving grunting sound, clearly exasperated by Merlin's naivete. "He may be nice," the prince said flatly. "But he's been trying to seduce me ever since I came of age." He waited a beat to let that tidbit of information sink in. "I don't know if he'll try the same thing with you. Either way, that's why I want you to be careful around him." Arthur's throat tightened; the thought of Sir Robert touching Merlin was something he couldn't quite deal with. It made Arthur feel overly protective, especially after Merlin had all but thrown himself onto a sword in order to save his life. That was something Arthur Pendragon would not soon forget.

That was no help. It was just what Arthur had said before... though it was interesting to know that the prince had indeed been aware of Sir Robert's advances. /Not as unnoticed as he thought, I guess./ Though part of Merlin's mind warned him harshly not to be so foolish, Merlin heard himself asking, "What would it matter if he did? I mean, if he was interested... what's the harm?" It was playing with fire, and Merlin found himself genuinely regretting his lack of self censorship once the words were out of his mouth. He was glad for the first time to be sitting behind the prince instead of directly in his line of sight. /But I never would have said something so stupid to Arthur's face... might have been better that way./

Arthur shifted uneasily in the tub, the water rippling around him with a soft sloshing sound. His mouth opened and closed. There were certain things that he could never say out loud. Certain things he should not feel or think. How could he tell Merlin the real reason for not wanting him and Sir Robert together? /Because I care for you... and I want you for myself.../ His heart hammered fast and heavy, making him feel sick. "Merlin," Arthur said, but he could see that there was very little he could say at this point that would not end up
going down a dangerous path. "I am your prince and I have need of your services," he said instead.

Merlin's brow furrowed, and his lips pressed tightly together for a moment. There was something behind the words, but staring at the back of the man's head did little to yield any further information. Finally Merlin sighed softly and tried to relax his posture. "Yes, Sire. I'm only sorry that I wasn't with you during the siege. How was it, by the way? The fight went well, I guess?" The returning knights hadn't been carrying many wounded, so it seemed that things couldn't have gone too terribly. Thankfully what he could see of Arthur also looked to be in lovely shape. /As if his shape is every anything but... And I'm not thinking about that. I'm not./

Arthur, grateful for the change of subject, felt some of the tension ease a little. "I lost a lot of good men," he replied, a different kind of edge underlying his tone. "I'm glad you weren't there to see it, Merlin." Arthur caught himself expressing too much again, and the prince added, "You might have received worse than a sword in the shoulder." Tired fingers reached for a cloth, and Arthur washed away the evidence of battle from his arms. "Anyway," he continued, flicking his gaze back at Merlin, "that's why you should take care with Sir Robert. It will take some time before his castle's habitable again, and he'll be Camelot's guest for a while."

"Right," Merlin agreed without any real enthusiasm. He considered pointing out that it was none of Arthur's business who wanted to seduce him, but that sounded silly even in his head. Instead the sorcerer kept quiet and let his gaze travel to the washcloth smoothing over Arthur's arms. At first it made little tracks in the dust that clung to the skin, muddy rivulets running over the prince's flesh. Soon enough the cloth came away clean, and the prince's skin took on a healthier pink tone in the absence of the dirt. Merlin didn't realize how long he'd sat silently staring at the oddly sensual tableau, but Arthur's armor sat more or less forgotten on his lap as he watched.

"Merlin? Merlin?" Arthur called over his shoulder, thinking the other young man had fallen asleep. "If you're done with my armor, I'm done with my bath." He fully expected Merlin to already be by his side, towel in hand. Instead, Merlin's dreamlike expression startled Arthur's heart and it took a great deal of blustering on the prince's part to behave like his old, prattish self again. "Come on, then," he huffed. "I'm waiting."

"What? Oh, right. Yeah, 'course," Merlin mumbled as he set the armor aside - it was mostly polished - and grabbed a fluffy towel. "Just got lost for a minute." That he had gotten lost in Arthur was another issue entirely, and he set that aside as he held the towel at the ready. "All set now." The towel did a rather lovely job of hiding him from Arthur's view. That was particularly important since his contemplation of the water running over the prince's body had left his interest just a bit too obvious. Merlin blushed and tried to avert his gaze as Arthur stepped out of the water.

No sooner than Arthur had begun to dry off then there came a knock at the door. Ready to fall into bed and not in the mood for visitors, the prince cursed under his breath. "Merlin, go and see who that is," he said, wrapping the towel around his waist. "Tell them I do not wish to be disturbed."

On the other side of the door, Sir Robert waited to be seen. For the first time in a long while he wasn't interested in visiting Arthur, he was more curious about Merlin and how he was feeling about their talk earlier that afternoon.

Glad that Arthur hadn't noticed the state he was in and hoping the visitor would be similarly discreet, Merlin nodded and went to the door. He took a quick breath to center himself and then opened it. /Damn./ Merlin was simultaneously annoyed and pleased to see Sir Robert standing before him. "I'm sorry but, er, the prince has retired for the evening and doesn't want to be disturbed." It meant that he'd be sent on his way soon enough to, but Merlin tried not to think about it. His master had returned safe and whole. Nothing else really mattered. The rest was details - or at least he told himself so.

"Oh, well..." Sir Robert paused, taking note of the warm flush coloring the tips of Merlin's ears. Something had happened before his arrival, something that had left the servant flustered. /Being in Arthur's presence tends to have that effect,/ the former knight silently reminded himself. "Would you convey my thanks to the prince?" he continued, finding it a difficult task not to reach out and caress Merlin's cheek. "I take full responsibility for letting my home fall into unsavory hands. It's a lesson well-learnt to employ more soldiers."

"Indeed, it is." Arthur, having heard Sir Robert's voice, stepped out. More concerned with Merlin being taken in by the older man than the state of his own undress, the prince kept one hand on the towel wrapped around his waist. "Not only would extra guards offer better security, but you should see to your castle's fortifications."

Robert nodded, pursuing his lips as he took in Arthur's suggestion. Arthur, however, was taken aback by his father's friend's attitude. Sir Robert had barely noticed him in his current state, and he was certain he would have been ordering Merlin to clean the older man's drool from the floor. Instead, Robert seemed far more interested in Merlin and Arthur felt a hot spike of jealousy pierce his chest. /He does want Merlin.../

Merlin glanced back at his master and was shocked to find that the prince had stepped forward still with nothing but the towel to shield him from prying eyes. /Maybe he doesn't mind being ogled by Sir Robert quite as much as he says./ There seemed little other reason for the show. And what a show. Merlin found himself wandering again and forced himself to look away. Though he turned back toward Sir Robert, his gaze was locked on the floor as if he feared that somehow the man would read in his eyes every wicked thought that he'd had about Arthur.

If looks could kill, then Sir Robert would be a corpse heaped on the floor. He could feel Arthur glaring at him, and he took a discreet step away from Merlin. /If you have feelings for him, then tell him Arthur,/ Sir Robert wanted to say, but bit his tongue. "Well then, I'll bid you a goodnight Sire." He turned to leave, only to pause and add, "Sweet dreams, Merlin," which earned him another burning, tight-lipped expression from Arthur.

As soon as the former knight was out of earshot, Arthur stepped in front of Merlin and slammed the door closed. "Merlin, you are not to spend a moment alone with him. Is that understood?"

Merlin flushed with anger for a moment before he could get control of his emotions. After counting to ten silently, he ventured, "And if the king orders otherwise?" They both knew that Arthur's orders meant nothing if the king said something else. Arthur might be able to shirk his father's authority from time to time, but Merlin had no such freedom. Besides which part of him rebelled at the idea of following Arthur's orders simply because - at least in his mind - the prince was jealous that someone else was taking the man's attentions. /Why should I stay away from Sir Robert simply because he wants to?/

"Merlin, I'm not going to argue with you about this," Arthur said with a hint of steel in his tone. "I want you to keep your distance from Sir Robert, and that's the end of it." Furious over the fact that Robert had shamelessly set his sights on his own servant, the prince's jaw remained tight as he dressed for bed. He tumbled down onto the mattress with a sigh, too tired and angry to glance at Merlin. "Go to bed, Merlin. I'll see you tomorrow."

Merlin set his lips in a thin line and turned without a word to do just that. He was angry that Arthur would happily order him away from someone who showed a genuine interest but hadn't wanted to be bothered with so much as sending word to his injured servant not so long before. It was damnably frustrating and even more confusing. Despite his annoyance, Merlin shut the door quietly, careful not to make the sound too loud so that he didn't disturb Arthur's sleep. He felt a rush of frustration with himself afterwards. Why could he so rarely bring himself to show the prince just how exasperating he could be?

"Merlin." Sir Robert stepped from the shadows where he had been idling, certain that the comely servant would be appearing from Arthur's room soon. "I couldn't leave without making sure you were all right first," the older man explained. He placed a warm hand on Merlin's shoulder, catching the hurt and confusion in the boy's eyes. "Would you like to talk about it? If you don't mind the company?"

Merlin hesitated. "Arthur... he told me not to be alone with you." It wasn't a negative answer, though, and they both knew it. The truth was that Merlin very much wanted to be around someone who understood his feelings, someone he could speak openly to. If Arthur didn't understand that... well, there were a great many things that the prince chose not to understand. A faltering little smile found the sorcerer's lips. "Then again, what Arthur doesn't know doesn't hurt him, yeah?"

Sir Robert smiled warmly in return. "Well, I wouldn't want to be accused of corrupting you into going against the prince's wishes." With that playful remark, he started to lead the way down the hall and away from Arthur's room. "So he doesn't want you spending time with me? Forgive me for saying so, but I do believe Arthur's jealous of any attention I might give you." His interest in Merlin was no secret, and Sir Robert did not desire to hide it. "He cares for you, Merlin. Only he has too much damn pride to admit it."

The words were enough to make Merlin blush all over again. He hadn't been willing to admit that possibility to himself, but his mind flashed back again to that one stray touch, the brush of Arthur's thumb against his lip. Just the memory made his breath catch. But why did Arthur stop himself? Why did he hold back? /Because he's the prince and you're a servant - and not a very good one at that./ Merlin felt his spirits fall at the simple reality of the situation, and he managed a shrug for the other man as they wandered down the hallway. "It doesn't matter, really. The king wouldn't want his heir spending any undue attention to a servant anyway, and Arthur... he wouldn't disobey the king. Not over something important, and to the king, appearance is very, very important."

"It does matter," Sir Robert insisted, pausing to turn and face Merlin. "You have more than just your position invested in Arthur, Merlin. Even a blind man could tell how much the prince means to you." He ghosted a hand over the boy's wounded shoulder, adding, "This only attests to how much you care for him." Drawing away, the former knight carried on down the hall and cast furtive glances in Merlin's direction. "Do you know I am quite jealous myself? What I wouldn't give for you to look at me the same way you do Arthur." Although Robert laughed softly, there was a hint of truth that suggested he was truly a very lonely man. "To think someone would come along to drive my attention away from the prince."

Never having had such intense attention bestowed upon him before, Merlin found it at once exciting and uncomfortable. "Can't say I see why anyone would be looking at me with Arthur standing there in nothing but a towel." That was the sort of view that Merlin found it impossible not to enjoy - much to his chagrin. If he could only learn how to master his feelings and hide them more effectively, life might be a great deal easier. "I'm really not all that special." /At least not to look at./ Merlin definitely had his talents, but most of them would get him burned at the stake if he told anyone about them.

Again, Sir Robert stopped. Only this time, he was pressing Merlin against the nearest wall, his palms pressed against the cool stone on either side of the boy's dark head. "Merlin, I've known you for simply a day and you shine more brilliantly than the sun," he told him. "You are special, and at the risk of treason, Arthur is a fool if he cannot see that."

Merlin found himself barely able to breathe as he gazed into the man's dark eyes. For all his light joviality, when Robert focused himself in, his gaze was absolutely piercing. Only with an effort did Merlin keep himself from looking away as Robert bored holes into his soul. He had absolutely no idea what to say or do. He'd never been in such a situation, and Merlin honestly didn't know how to conduct himself under the pressure of the other man's attention.

Sir Robert never thought it possible to want to kiss someone else since he'd become enamored with Arthur. But standing there pressed close to Merlin, he felt as if he'd been swept up into a summer tempest with the beautiful younger man at the eye of the storm. Unwilling to force himself on the servant, Robert willed himself back and gathered his senses. "Forgive me, Merlin," he apologized, slightly out of breath. "Only it pains me to hear how little you think of yourself."

Merlin's heart was thudding in his chest as the man drew back, and he felt a pang of something he could only classify as regret. /I wanted him to stop... didn't I?/ It was becoming confusing sorting everything out. He tried to chalk it up to being tired after his convalescence, but that didn't seem quite right. "It's not that I don't think I'm good at things, just... they aren't always things that are quite useful." Even as Merlin spoke, he knew he was being deliberately dense. Robert had meant that he was attractive, but Merlin simply didn't believe that - especially not in comparison to Arthur.

"I highly doubt that, Merlin." Although Sir Robert had managed to get a hold of himself after the intense moment, he reached out and caressed one of Merlin's chiseled cheekbones with his fingers. "If I know Arthur, he would not have kept you on if you were as useless as you think you are." The former knight drew himself away and continued escorting Merlin back to the servant's quarters. Outside, the sky was covered in a blanket of shimmering stars and Robert noted how even more beautiful Merlin was in the moonlight. "I should really give you this," he said, removing the locket from around his neck. "I don't think I'll be needing it anymore."

Though Merlin automatically reached out to take the chain, he hesitated afterward. The locket was beautiful, and the idea of carrying Arthur with him at all times... well, that was more than slightly appealing, but he knew that it was worth a good deal. A man of Sir Robert's standing didn't wear cheap trinkets. "I... are you sure?" It didn't seem right accepting the gift as much as he wanted to, and Merlin searched the other man's face for the slightest trace of regret at the decision of giving it up.

"Of course," Robert assured him, closing his hand over Merlin's. "Whatever feelings I have for Arthur pale in comparison to yours." If it were anyone else, he might have dismissed them and told them they were wasting their time pinning for Arthur. But the deep, sincere affection twinkling in Merlin's startling blue eyes spoke volumes, as well as the palpable bond between servant and prince when the two were together. "Please Merlin, I'd like you to have it."

Merlin found himself distracted for a moment by the warmth of Robert's hand covering his but recovered soon enough to slip the locket over his dark hair. Once it was settled comfortably around his neck, Merlin clasped the gold oval for just a moment before tucking it firmly away in his shirt. "Thank you. I've never... I don't think anyone's ever given me anything like this before." The gift of understanding meant every bit as much as the locket himself. "Arthur said that you might be staying for awhile until things are settled down again."

"Yes," Robert conceded with a weary sigh. "I dread to think of the state of my home, let alone the loss of lives." His expression grew forlorn and faraway, as if he could pierce the night with his gaze and see his estate. Realizing how abruptly distant he had become, Robert managed a warm smile for Merlin's benefit. "Now that Arthur has returned, he'll have greater need of you than I. You mustn't concern yourself with me, Merlin. But if you ever need a friend, you have one."

"Thank you," Merlin answered sincerely. He needed a friend, an ally who would understand the faults that he feared to share even with Gaius. It was bad enough that the physician had seen how fond he was of Arthur. The idea of confessing to the man that it went beyond a case of puppy love... he wouldn't. Not if he could avoid it. Uther would be furious if he suspected, and Merlin didn't want to do anything that might put Arthur through any discomfort or disgrace. "I know what Arthur said, but... but if you need someone to talk to too..." He trailed off and shrugged his good shoulder almost shyly as the lingered by the door to the quarters he shared with Gaius.

"You're very kind, Merlin," Sir Robert replied, smiling softly. He took a step closer, finding it difficult to ignore the attraction he felt for the younger man. "Particularly to someone who would like nothing more than to kiss you right now." He managed to restrain himself, and instead, clasped his hands behind his back in an effort to stop himself from reaching out and touching Merlin. "One word of advice," he added, "don't give up on Arthur. He's too stubborn to admit how much he cares for you, but I can see it. He does have feelings for you, and he's all the more lucky to have you."

Confused and jittery, Merlin nodded. "Thanks. I... I won't." Not sure what else to say, Merlin took the opportunity to escape into Gaius' quarters. He surprised himself by being almost disappointed that Robert hadn't laid a hand on him. He had very nearly wanted the man to kiss him. /Why?/ He wanted Arthur, might even love him, and yet... Merlin tried to shake off the feeling as he stepped into the room and fidgeted briefly with his collar to try and be sure the delicate gold chain around his neck was fully disguised.

"Ah, Merlin," Gaius greeted the boy. "You're late, but I kept your supper warm for you." There, at the table, was a steaming bowl of soup. Gaius was already filling a cup with water and he pressed it into Merlin's hand. "How is the prince? I saw him for only a moment earlier; a few scrapes and bruises, but he seemed unscathed from the battle."

"He's tired, but he's well," Merlin agreed, beaming as he relayed the news. It broke the building tension easily, and he sat down to eat with apparent relish. "Thanks, Gaius. I was starving." He hadn't thought of food for a moment when he'd gone off to help Arthur. With the spell of the prince's presence broken, Merlin was hungry and more than slightly weary himself. Between bites, he added, "I guess they'll have to find someone else to look after Sir Robert now."

"Oh?" Gaius' eyebrow twitched as he scrutinized Merlin. "Well, I suppose you're right. But, if the King insists, you'll have to split your time between Arthur and Sir Robert." Merlin was flushed, almost as if he had jogged back to their quarters. However Gaius was well-acquainted with that certain hue, and he worried that something might have happened between Merlin and Arthur. Of course, it was known of his business if something intimate had occurred. He only hoped Uther never found out. "When you've finished, I'll have another look at your shoulder before bed."

It wasn't long before the bowl was empty, and Merlin shifted, pulling his shirt half off so that Gaius could get a look at the bandaged wound. It was no longer constantly painful, but the day of activity had left Merlin feeling more sore than it had been that morning. "How does it look?" The sooner it was completely healed the better so far as Merlin was concerned. Gaius had already cautioned him a half dozen times that he could use no magic on the wound. Arthur and the king both knew too well how its healing should progress, and anything he did to accelerate that process would only call undue attention. It made Merlin particularly antsy now that Arthur was back. He wanted to be able to serve the prince fully, not be stumbling around at half capacity. Arthur already thought him enough of an idiot.

"Much better," Gaius replied, pleased to see how well his medicines were working. As he prepared a fresh batch to apply to Merlin's wound, the physician said, "I must admit I was concerned you were returning to your duties too quickly. We don't want to risk an infection." Gaius applied the salve with great care, then wrapped Merlin's shoulder with a clean bandage. Once he was finished, he offered the sorcerer another cup of water. "Here, drink this. I added a little something to ease any discomfort and to help you sleep."

Merlin nodded, glad that he'd managed to pull the locket aside along with his shirt to keep Gaius from seeing it. "Thanks." He gladly downed the drink. After a slightly too eventful day, Merlin knew that he would have trouble sleeping without a bit of aide. "Thank you for taking such good care of me." In the absence of his mother's care, having Gaius looking after him was always comforting even if at times Merlin might have preferred a bit less observation on his mentor's part. "Think I'll turn in." Merlin tugged his shirt back on and fairly darted away before Gaius could ask anything more about his day. It was difficult contrasting his deeper feelings for Arthur with the odd bouts of attraction that he felt around Robert - and more than slightly confusing. Merlin heaved a sigh and closed his eyes, hoping he would drift off quickly.