That's Not Arthur

Chapter 3 - Enter, Thee Handsome Stranger

Leon and Merlin hadnt talked much on their journey. They had rested once for the night and now they were arriving in Ealdor. Why in Ealdor? Well, it was one of the rare things the two had talked about. They wanted to see Arthur. Even though technically Leon did see Arthur right now when he looked to his left, thats not really the same thing. They both wanted to know Arthur was safe and well. And if Merlin got to see his mother again, he could hardly complain, it was just a plus.

What they didnt expect to see though when arriving at Ealdor, was Arthur, technically still Merlin, working on the fields. And not just that, he was also using magic to help things along. He looked happy.

Leon and Merlin shared a look, which consisted of a lot of confusion and a bit of amusement. Okay, a lot of amusement, though it might have mixed in on the feeling of being relieved to see that Arthur was indeed safe, and by the looks of it, not having too miserable of a time either.

The two continued closer to where Arthur was, and soon enough the dollophead noticed them. Arthurs eyes widened when he first saw his two friends, but there soon appeared a blinding smile on his face.

He stopped what he was doing and hurried to greet the two. He was wearing Merlins usual clothes, just missing his jacket and neckerchief. He wouldnt need those to keep him warm, working all day was enough. The sleeves of his red shirt were rolled up and he was sweaty.

It was a surprisingly warm afternoon. The sun had shone all day, though now some clouds had found their way to the sky and covered up most of it. There would still be a few hours before the sun would set.

Merlin, Leon! Arthur shouted happily upon seeing two of his friends whom he hadnt seen in months. The two dismounted from their horses, Merlin giving the reins from his hand to Leon so he could go hug Arthur. He wouldnt care if Arthur hated hugs for whatever reason he may have, he would go and wrap his arms around his friend.

Surprisingly enough though, Arthur opened his arms and welcomed Merlin in a warm hug. It was weird. Not just because Arthur never hugged anyone, but because they were in each others bodies so they were technically hugging themselves. How weird would it be if we kissed, we would be kind of kissing ourselves Why am I even thinking that? Merlin thought as he hugged Arthur. Then he remembered his and Kilgharrahs conversation from earlier about true loves kiss being the only known way to break their curse. Thanks a lot Kilgharrah for your great advice! he said sarcastically in his mind as him and Arthur were pulling apart from their hug. And for attacking Camelot and killing innocent people, he added.

He gave Arthur an awkward smile, which the sorcerer happily returned with one of his own. That was weird, the brunette said and chuckled uncomfortably. Yeah, the blond agreed, then added, Its good to see you. You seem to be having a good time here, using my magic and all. He smiled, less awkwardly this time. Arthur gave a laugh and replied, Yeah. Its not totally horrible. He was smiling as well.

Leon joined their conversation, having tied their horses to who knows where so they wouldnt run off. One thought now dawned on Arthur. Wait! Does everyone in Camelot know youre actually Merlin? Why are you here? Is everything alright? well, maybe that was a bit more than just one thought. No! Merlin hurriedly answered. The only ones who know are me, you, Morgana, Gwen, Leon and Gaius. And I would guess my mother knows as well? he continued. Yes, of course she knows, Arthur told him with slight amusement in his tone.

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What?! came Arthurs worried question after hearing what had been happening in Camelot. They were sitting around the kitchen table in Huniths home, and after a heartfelt hug between mother and son and a few happy moments later, they had gotten to the conversation of why they were really even here.