Hey guys! I'm sorry I haven't updated sooner. If you don't know, my mom limits my time on fanfiction. I am only allowed to respond to reviews, type on word document, watch Merlin episodes, update, and read fanfiction for 1 hour each day! Did you hear that? I only have 1 hour to do all of that! WOW! Do you feel sorry for me yet? Thanks so much for those who have alerted, favorite, and especially, reviewed! You're the reason I take time out of my hour to update instead of read. I will be gone this weekend, but if I get enough reviews, I'll do my best to update on Sunday night or Monday morning. IT'S ALL UP TO YOU! Well, enough chatting. READ ON!

Chapter Three: Going Through the Motions

It was morning. People always say tell you to sleep on a problem, and that's what Arthur did. He would talk to Merlin even less, if that was even possible. That was what Merlin wanted, right?

Merlin walked in and stiffly bowed. "Sire." Merlin handed Arthur his breakfast, which Arthur noticed was overly stuffed and rich. Arthur gave a small nod to Merlin, who then proceeded to polish Arthur's armor like a professional. He was doing even better than George! (All of those lessons must have paid off.) Merlin was being a model servant.

"Hey, idiot, you forgot a spot!" said Arthur, trying to loosen the atmosphere. Instead of replying with "Prat!", Merlin avoided eye contact and mumbled and apology, even though he really hadn't missed a spot at all.

"Merlin," Arthur crouched down and put a hand on his shoulder. "What's wrong?"

The words seamed to open a dam inside of Merlin.

"Nothing, sire." he stuttered, nearing tears. Merlin composed himself quickly and looked into Arthur's eyes. Arthur saw sadness and pain beyond measure reflecting in Merlin's sapphire blue eyes. Then, the moment ended. Merlin but his lip and muttered some lame excuse about having to wash some of Arthur's clothes. Arthur was about to point out that Merlin had done that yesterday, but he let it slip. Obviously, Merlin needed to get away. Then, Arthur remembered his resolve. Merlin didn't want to talk to him. He was jerked back into the present when Merlin brushed something from his eye. Was he crying? Why? The question had Arthur's attention for the whole morning, as everyone just went through the motions.

I know it's short, but it's better than nothing, right? Please review! It means the world to me! You guys are the best fans EVER! Thanks so much for your support! ~ Merlinfanatic77