The Man: A Merthur Fanfic

Chapter 3

Gaius was the the king's consultant, as well as the best healer in all of the kingdom. He was also Merlin's guardian, and nothing was more concerning then to have the king's son bursting through the door, covered in blood and tears, carrying Merlin in his arms. Arthur lay Merlin across the table, Gaius springing into action.

Merlin was no longer unconscious, but said nothing as Gaius mixed some herbs into a pasty cream. He cleaned Merlin's wounds with alcohol, causing him to whimper in pain. Coating the gash with the cream, Gaius wrapped Merlin's head with a bandage, and Arthur carried him into the room down the hall. He had never realized how small the villager's homes were. Merlin's room was half the side of his closet!

As Arthur lay Merlin down, he tripped, landing on the floor. He sighed, realizing it was just a loose floorboard. Too loose. As Arthur reached to lift up the wooden plank, a weak voice croaked his name. "...Arthur..?" Arthur quickly stood up. Merlin smiled at the sight of him, and Arthur grinned back. Merlin suddenly frowned, and whispered, "I heard you." Arthur turned away, his cheeks tainted red. "Er-Yeah.." "Is it true?" Arthur let his blonde bangs cover his face. "Just...just because you're..you know. That doesn't mean your not a man. Your father will accept you."

His voice became horse, and Arthur spoke. "No. Maybe if I liked an honorable man, but I don't. I like a commoner. I like-" Merlin's eyes glowed a little brighter as he uttered two words. "I know." Gaius burst into the room, setting a glass of water on Merlin's side table, and pushing Arthur out of the room. "He needs his rest, I say, the boy needs his rest!" Arthur stood there, shocked. Merlin knew. Had he always known? Did he like him back? Arthur exited the door, and slowly made his way through the town, bothered quite a lot by the disgusted stares he was receiving from everyone he passed.

"What!?" He finally yelled, and everyone looked away. Were...were they bothered by his announcement..? By him being gay? He was soon answered when Connor Bowen walked past him. " Where's your husband, My lady?" He snickered, sticking his foot out. Arthur stumbled, landing in the dirt. Connor laughed, and went on his way.

Author's Note: Dear Readers, This is for all my gay fans, I am completely supportive of you, and true friends will be too. There is nothing wrong with you, and you are no different than anyone else. People who hate on you, are jealous of your bravery, so just be strong. You'll get through it! Leave a like to show Arthur some support! 😘👍

P.S, Comment if you got the floorboard reference!