Chapter 2- Swordplay

Note- This fan fiction is based on both the TV series, Merlin, and the legend of King Arthur, though my inspiration comes from Merlin. Enjoy! I intend to continue this fan fiction, so drop me a comment on what you'd like to see or just your thoughts, lol. J

"Arthur?" someone called.

The future king glanced around. It was Merlin. Arthur stopped immediately.

"Merlin, good morning."

Merlin caught up with him, eyes full of mischief, Arthur pondered, and secrets.

"Morning, sire. Gaius let me have the morning off." the boy said, smiling.

"Well, I have nothing to do today. Tell me, Merlin, how's your swordplay?"

***

Merlin landed heavily in the mud for the fifth time. He rubbed it off his face and curly black hair, stumbling to his feet. Arthur laughed, brandishing his shining sword in a sophisticated style.

"Come on, Merlin! Do you not have any skills with a blade?" he asked.

Merlin smiled weakly, reaching for his own borrowed sword, a rusty, heavy thing.

He dived at Arthur and missed. Arthur effortlessly knocked the weapon away. He smirked and sheathed his sword. He offered a hand and swung Merlin up off the ground. Again.

"What, no more training? I'm starting to get use to the bruises!" Merlin said, smiling and following Arthur into the castle.

"No more today, Merlin. You're not exactly a formidable opponent." Arthur replied, climbing the steps to his chamber. He stopped and turned to Merlin.

"Say, you're good as Gaius' servant. And you've saved my life once before. Do you want to become my servant? I could do with someone like you around."

Merlin looked astonished. "Me? Your servant? Really?"

Arthur raised his eyebrows. Merlin nodded "OK, yes, I'd be honoured."

Arthur walked into his room. "Good. You start now." he shoved a pile of laundry at the boy. He began to change into his night clothes. Merlin stood there, open-mouthed.

"What?" Arthur asked, bare-chested. Merlin grinned and shrugged. "Nothing."