A/N: I don't own Merlin. That was the luck of the BBC

Next chapter - I'm so impatient I really don't have any sort of upload schedule, I'm just putting stuff up when I feel like it ^^

Chapter 3

After many years of service to the Pendragon regency, Leon thought he had perfected his stony expression. To be a knight, one must overcome fits of emotion and be seen as an emotionless leader. Leon knew this was one of the more important items any good knight should practise; if Leon looked worried, the younger knights, squires and servants too would worry. If he became upset after a disastrous battle, everyone would doubt his ability to make rational judgements on their next movements, in which Leon also included himself. Just like his father had taught him, 'a wall of no emotions maketh the knight'.

'Could you help me with this speech? I want to speak passionately about the King but fear I do not have the eloquence to write such an honour.' The knight with sandy locks sighed.

'As soon as I've done this list of chores. But I won't write too much, it might make the prat's head too big.' The servant with ebony tresses chuckled.

Those were the last words he spoke to his king's fellow protector. Leon had disapproved of the way the boy spoke to the then prince. Insolence would not be tolerated while he was a knight. It had taken him a while to truly notice and accept the odd relationship between prince and manservant. Even though the dark haired fool scolded his lord as if he were a child, the prince returned the banter with a smile. Leon had also not realised how fiercely loyal he was to Arthur until he had drunk from the poisoned goblet not long after being 'gifted' to him. This was what had made Leon trust the boy, as they shared a common passion to protect the King, even if it meant laying down their lives for him. He truly had put his faith in Arthur that day. He should never have had to be protected from the one he was protecting. Never.

After many years of service to the Pendragon regency, Leon thought he had perfected his stony expression, but he couldn't help himself from scowling, something nagging in the back of his mind that this was inherently wrong, as the flames curled around his fellow protector's legs.