Mistaken Identity

- 24 -

"What would you do without me?"

Arthur sighed. Couldn't Merlin ever shut up?

"I'm sure I'd be fine, Merlin." His voice was flat, trying to discourage his servant from a conversation.

"Oh but I think we both know that's not true. After all, I was the one who prompted you to speak to your father."

"I would have done it anyway."

"Ah, but now we'll never know. Besides, I also saved your life."

"As if!"

"I distracted Uther!"

"Merlin, that was just you making a prat of yourself and trying to make it look as if it wasn't a complete accident."

Merlin decided to go along with it rather than explain what he was actually doing. Explaining to Arthur about his destiny might not be the best idea. "You know Sire, a man can do both."

"Well, Merlin, we both know you're not a man. You're a wimp."

"I am not!"

Arthur turned suddenly, causing Merlin to flinch. "I think you are, Merlin."

Huffing to himself, the servant returned to his chores.

-

Merlin sighed in relief. He had finally finished work for the day, and what with Arthur being back to his usual self, his job was getting harder.

The servant couldn't deny that it was good that things were back to normal, for both of them. He supposed it felt good to have to duck random objects that came flying his way in the morning. Sort of.

Just as he was about to leave, and finally receive some proper rest in his own bed, Arthur's voice called him back.

"Merlin!"

"Yes Sire?"

"I almost forgot! Before you go..."

Merlin looked questioningly at the Prince. "Yes?"

"Before you go, Merlin, I need you to go and muck out my horses." Arthur gave his servant a bright smile.

Merlin barely suppressed his groan at the prospect, and with a forced, "Yes Sire", he slumped from the chamber, leaving Arthur grinning in the doorway.

Oh yes, things were definitely getting back to normal.