Big Bang: The Pendragonlords 1/3

Title: The Pendragonlords
Pairing: Arthur/Merlin, slight! Gwaine/Merlin
Rating: PG-13
Word Count: ~18000
Summary: This is the story of how Arthur began the best bands of the century. (Not really)
Warnings: Some virginity talk, male/male kissing, etc.
A/N: FIRST BIG BANG OMG. I've never written something so long. //cries out of such glee
Also, even though this is beta'd (anonymous beta trolololol), I'm still sorry if there are any mistakes. My beta and I sometimes overlook things. :|

Arthur didn’t like his new day in college.

Sure he seemed superior, surviving years of hardcore studying that could make one go crazy. But somehow, it seemed easy for Arthur to surpass these things. But this year, he realized something. He realized something was missing in his life. Then one day as he walked down the streets and saw a blind man performing with his guitar, he stared at the man and approached him.

“Sir,” Arthur started as politely as he could because he knows that the next thing he might say would be terribly awful. “You’re blind, and yet you play music. Why?” The man simply laughed with his whole body bending backwards and his hand pressing against his stomach.

“Young lad, you are missing something.” Arthur stared. “I may be blind, but I can hear. And music makes me feel. It gives me a passion that I was never aware of.” Then it hit Arthur like a ton of bricks.

He needed to start a band. And fast.

And that is why he hated his first day. Not only did he need members, he couldn’t recognize if they were capable of even playing instruments. This one man, who wore all black and had a sharp Mohawk perched on his scalp, could be mistaken as a rock band genius, only to realize later that he was playing Celine Dion in his music player. Great. Just great. Unfocused by his train of thought, Arthur didn’t notice a boy who was running full speed until he bumped into him. Irritated and annoyed, Arthur stood up and glared at the boy beneath.

“Watch where you’re going.” He warned as the boy glared back. The boy was lanky and pale while he wore a sweater vest with khakis and a pair of glasses that made him look like a modernized Harry Potter.

“Why don’t you, you prat?” The boy bit back, obviously offended by Arthur’s choice of words as he bent down and grabbed his books.

“What gives you the right to call me a prat?” Arthur countered back as the boy fixed his things and laughed.

“I know that everyone like you,” the boy pointed to his chest. “Is insufferable, mean and insensitive.” The boy said as he stormed off, leaving Arthur angry and disoriented.

“Well that was rude.” Arthur said, shrugging it off as he walked away.

---

Arthur always thought that seniors at their school were cool because they had free dormitories. It was a pathetic reason, but true. The dormitories were unusually high priced, so it was a miracle to actually get in. Arthur was worried about his roommate though, since he hasn’t seen him ever since unpacking earlier that day. Arthur lay on his bed and thought about random things. Bands. Girls. Shows. Bands. Dammit. He needed to make a band real soon.

Then it dawned to him.

“Why don’t I make auditions?” Arthur whispered. “Brilliant! Arthur, you’re a genius!” Arthur said to no one in particular as he started typing onto his laptop.

---

“Is that good enough?”

Arthur stared at his poster that he posted on the dormitory bulletin board, where apparently, anything could be posted. Arthur wondered if anyone would be willing to audition. If anyone even wanted to be in a band. While thinking, Arthur suddenly heard the sound of an instrument. Arthur perked up by the sound. He stormed out of the room in search of the playing instrument. Arthur shut his eyes and listened attentively to the sound. It was a bass. After listening and learning about music, he knew a thing or two about instruments. And that definitely was a bass. Arthur could imagine the fingers gliding against the chords, perfectly and with such mastery. Finally stopping in front of the source, he unconsciously opened the door and saw a boy with black hair and a sweater vest grasping onto a bass and—

Wait.

The boy turned around and Arthur widened his eyes at the boy he encountered earlier. The boy stared back, before letting go of the instrument and rush to the door to push Arthur back out.

“What the fuck are you doing!” The boy did all but ask. “You can’t just go into people’s dorm rooms you stupid perv—“

“You play great.”

Silence.

“Excuse me?” The boy said with a raised eyebrow as he closed the door a little, making Arthur feel like a creeper.

“I mean, I think you have a really great talent and that you’re a great bass player.” Arthur said. The boy blinked before giving a really small smile.

“Thanks.” He said. “But I still think you’re a prat.” Arthur nodded.

“Call me whatever you like. I just need to ask you one favor...” Arthur motioned for him to speak his name.

“Merlin.”

“Merlin.” Arthur repeated, etching it in his brain. He wasn’t good at memorizing. “Would you be willing to join my band?” Arthur said quickly as he crossed his fingers behind his back.

“You want me... To join your band?” Merlin said, full of awe. Arthur nodded. “I’m not so sure....” Merlin said, hesitantly.

“Arthur.” Arthur said immediately. “I haven’t even introduced myself, god.” Merlin laughed a little at his mistake.

“I... I have to think about it, Arthur.” Merlin said. “I don’t even own a bass—“

“Wait.” Arthur stopped him. “You don’t? Then who owns that?” Arthur pointed to the one that was lying on the couch.

“Oh that’s Gwen’s, my roommate. She wanted to learn how to play the bass, so I’m teaching her. “ Merlin explained as Arthur sighed.

“Just, come to my room, 1106, this Saturday at 1 PM. I’ll be having auditions then so if you’re gonna join just go there. Ok?” Arthur bargained as Merlin nodded.

“That’s fine.” Merlin smiled. “You’re still a prat.” Arthur sighed.

“Yeah, whatever.”

---

Arthur woke up in the middle of the night when he heard a loud noise erupt from the other side of the room. Alarmed, he looked and saw his new roommate, Gwaine.

“Sorry, mate.” The Gwaine man slurred. “I was having too much fun. I’m Gwaine, by the way.”

“And I’m Arthur.” Arthur said coldly. “Do you know what bloody time it is? Give me some sleep.”

“Whoa. Sorry.” Gwaine put up his hands, as if he was at fault. “Well, I’ll let the king have his beauty sleep, a’right?” Gwaine chuckled as he jumped on his bed.

---

Arthur walked down the hallways and spotted Merlin. He raised his hands for a wave, until Merlin spotted him and gave him a sheepish smile. Arthur grinned as he approached Merlin.

“Hello, bandmate.” Merlin nodded awkwardly to Arthur.

“Hey there, Arthur. “ Merlin greeted before taking a deep breathe. “I don’t think I can play for your band. I don’t even have a bass—“

“What are you talking about?” They both turned around to see a petite girl with black hair. “You do have a bass. My bass!” She faced Arthur. “You must be Arthur. Merlin has told me—“ she glanced at Merlin. “About you.” She smiled and Arthur smiled back. “He’d love to be part of the band. On one condition.” Arthur stared. “I get to be the make-up artist.”

“Oh god, Gwen no—“

“You can’t be a bassist with that outfit Merlin, seriously.” Gwen said, reprimanding his Star Wars shirt and jeans. “It’s hideous!”

“Gwen, for your information, I like what I’m wearing and—“

“No you don’t!” Gwen persisted. “You don’t like it! I know you don’t!” Arthur chuckled at the little argument the two were having.

“Stop laughing!” They shouted in unison.

“I’m sorry.” Arthur said, putting his hands in the air like a robber when caught.

“Anyways, I will be the make-up artist and no one” She glanced at Merlin “will stop me.” Gwen said as she turned around and stormed off.

“Who was that?” Arthur asked.

“That was Gwen. She’s my roommate and she’s really protective of me—“

“Wait, you’re roommate?” Arthur said, disbelief evident in his voice. “I thought we’re not allowed to have co-ed roommates.”

“Well, I’m not like most guys.” Merlin said, suddenly quite and avoiding Arthur’s eyes. Arthur blinked and opened his mouth to ask before the bell rang. “Well, I need to go. Good luck on your auditions later, Arthur.” Merlin smiled as he headed for his classroom. Arthur nodded and headed for his.

---

It was already after school and Arthur was still sitting on his sofa, waiting for someone with an instrument to enter his room and audition. But so far, none. Nada. Zip. Zero. Arthur groaned. He checked his wristwatch and sighed. 6 PM. He opened the auditions at 4 and nobody has entered the room. About to give up, Arthur went back to the door to lock, until a tall man burst through the door.

“Are the auditions still open?” he said, out of breath.

“I’m sorry but—“

“Please? I promise you I won’t fail you.” The man said, almost kneeling down. Arthur sighed.

“Where’s your instrument then?” The man froze.

“Dammit.” He bit his lips. “I play drums!” The man grabbed drumsticks behind his pockets. “I’ll just play some rhythms.” The man grinned as he grabbed a random bucket and started drumming. Arthur stared at him for a moment with disbelief. But when the man started playing, a melodious rhythm erupted into the room. It was nice to the ears and every beat made you wanting more. Before he knew it, the man was done playing.

“You’re in.” Arthur said, as if in a trance. The man had the brightest grin and stopped himself from jumping up and down. “What’s your name?”

“Percival.” The man grinned.

“Alright. We start practice tomorrow.” Arthur informed him as he left and went on texting Merlin about the new member.

From: Merlin
To: Arthur

Where the bloody hell did you get my number?

From: Arthur
To: Merlin

Gwen gave it to me.

From: Merlin
To: Arthur

God. Alright, how awesome is this Percival man?

From: Arthur
To: Merlin

He broke the bucket he used for drumming.

From: Merlin
To: Arthur

Jesus, Arthur, I hope for a drummer, not a bucket murderer.

From: Arthur
To: Merlin

No. Christ, No. He was too awesome even the bucket couldn’t handle.

From: Merlin
To: Arthur

Oh. I guess that’s good enough. Now, goodbye, Arthur, I need to study.

From: Arthur
To: Merlin

Who needs to study?

From: Merlin
To: Arthur

You, of course. Now go away or I’ll never reply to you again.

From: Arthur
To: Merlin

You heartless sod.

And Merlin never did reply. That day, of course.

---

Arthur smiled at the people before him. Merlin Emrys, bassist. An awesome one, at that. From Gwen’s stories, he seems to be a closet nerd and doesn’t party much. Sad. Then there’s Percival (Arthur never had the heart of asking his last name), drummer. He had rhythm. And finally, Gwen, make-up artist. He didn’t know if they really needed one, but Gwen persisted. Saying that they needed to look pretty if they wanted to attract fans, to which Merlin blushed.

“Alright, let’s start with a song I wrote earlier this year.” Everyone raised an eyebrow.

“You write songs?” Merlin said. “Hope you didn’t strain yourself.” He teased.

“Shut up.” Arthur glared as he passed along a sheet of paper. Everyone read the papers before they started to frown. Merlin opened his mouth to say something, but closed it almost immediately.

“What?” Arthur asked, noticing the long looks.

“Arthur, this is um...” Percival said, unable to finish the sentence.

“Rubbish!” Gwen said. “What is this! It’s absolutely horrifying it’s—“ She stopped when she noticed Merlin and Percival giving looks. “I’m sorry I shouldn’t have—“

“No, it’s fine.” Arthur said, sounding melodramatic. “We should just, practice some chords.” Arthur turned away to get his guitar as Merlin stared sadly at the piece of paper with some thought.

---

Practice have come and gone through the past week, Arthur realized. He found out that they were more cooperative than expected. Merlin was as cocky as he was when they met, but managed to be professional when practicing and Percival wasn’t all that of a bully, despite his looks. Arthur smiled smugly as they continued to play some random songs they listen to.

You’re so delicious, you’re so soft
Sweet on the tip of my tongue

Arthur strummed as he sang. He felt his fingers grow numb, but he didn’t care. He wanted to finish the song. It was one of his favorites recently, as he heard it from Gwen’s Ipod.

You taste like sunlight, baby.
And strawberry bubblegum

Merlin played his bass with such expertise and Percival continued to add more rhythm to the song. Arthur closed his eyes, hoping to feel more of it.

Only you, own
Can rattle my bones
And turn me over and over
‘till I can’t control myself

Arthur felt the lyrics roll out of his tongue. He liked the sound of the band and cracked an eye open to look expectantly at Gwen, who seemed to be the critic.

Make me a liar, one big disaster
Cause you make my heart beat – Faster.

“Dear Lord , what is that music?” Gwaine enters him and Arthur’s shared room and has an annoyed expression on his face.

“Um, we’re playing music, Gwaine.” Arthur said, coldly. “You don’t have to be in the room if you don’t—“

“Oh my god.” Merlin’s voice is heard form across the room as everyone looks at him.

“You’re Gwaine! The guitarist of The Knights In Shining Armor!” Arthur raised an eyebrows.

“Knights In Shinning what now?” Arthur asks as Gwen stands up.

“Oh my god you’re right!” Gwen squeals as she jumps up and down in glee.

“I’m not understanding any of this—“

“Oh, you mean the one who sang the song ‘Fight in Camelot’?” Percival joined in on the escapade. “I loved that song. It’s my song whenever I go jogging.”

“Will someone please fill me in on this I have no idea what you people are saying!” Arthur says, quite angrily, making everyone (finally) notice him.

“That’s Gwaine! The best guitarist ever!” Merlin says, dreamily. “I’m a big fan! Despite your recent...” Merlin looks away and Gwaine smiles.

“I like you.” Gwaine says. “What’s your name?” Gwaine grins at him in a predatory way.

“M-Merlin.” Merlin stutters.

“Well, Merlin, I’m sure we’ll get along just fine.” Gwaine winks as he leaves the room. “Laters!”

“You’ve got to get him in the band.” Merlin says when Gwaine is out of the room.

“What? No!” Arthur shakes his head. “He’s horrible! He doesn’t do his laundry, he gets drunk a lot—“

“But he’s a great guitarist!” Merlin said. “He played for the Knights In Camelot, what other explanations do you need?” Merlin said in a pleading voice.

“I’m a great guitarist, too.” Arthur whispered with hostility before Gwen glanced at him urgently. Arthur noticed this and cleared his throat as Gwen looked away.

“Oh Arthur, we do need him! We could gain some publicity with him! ‘The Return of Gwaine’! That sounds pretty catchy.” Merlin said, talking to himself.

“What Merlin means to say is,” Percival butts in. “That I’m sure Gwaine could contribute a lot of good things for the band.” Arthur sighed. Two against One. Fine.

“I really don’t see what’s so special about Gwaine.” Arthur sighed. “I never even heard of this Knights band...” Merlin gasped.

“Have you been living under a rock, Arthur?” Merlin gave a sympathetic face. “The Knights in Camelot are the best band ever! They were really popular momentarily. Until the band broke up and Gwaine was well, left alone.” Merlin sighed. “So we should bring him back into the music business! We could be recognized as that!” Merlin said, eyes dazzling with excitement from just the thought of it.

“Or just a back up group of the Knights.” Arthur said and Merlin rolled his eyes.

“Come on Arthur!” Merlin pleaded. “You won’t regret it.” Merlin promised as Arthur sighed.

“Fine.” Merlin squealed in delight.

“Oh my god, Arthur. You are awesome.” Merlin made his arms round for a hug, but decided not to. Shame. Arthur sort of wanted one. Merlin then cleared his throat. “But you have to be the one that makes him join.” Arthur furrowed his eyebrows.

“What? No!” Arthur said, defiantly. “Absolutely not!”

“He’s your roommate!” Merlin reasoned. “You’re the only one who he can talk to on a daily basis.”

“But he’s an arse! He gets drunk everyday!” Arthur groaned.

“Arthur,” Merlin gave a small sound. “For the band?” And Arthur just had to look at Merlin, whose eyes were fluttering as he looked up at Arthur through his eyelashes. Whose lips were pouting and Arthur couldn’t help but stare. Whose cheeks were turning red after the shouting and reasoning. Arthur sighed.

“Alright. I’ll talk to him.” Merlin clapped his hands.

---

“Hey there, Gwaine.” Gwaine looked up as Arthur approached him.

“This is the first time you’ve spoken to me in weeks.” Gwaine said. “Is something wrong?”

“Well, Merlin wants you to...” Arthur took a deep breath. “Merlinwantsyoutojoinourband.” Gwaine blinked.

“I’m not quite sure I heard that, mate.” Gwaine said as he put out an ear. “Could you repeat that?” Arthur grit his teeth.

“Merlin. Wants. You. To. Join. The. Band.” Gwaine smiled smugly.

“I thought so.” Arthur frowned.

“Then why did you make me repeat that!” Gwaine laughed.

“I just love messing with you, mate.” Arthur glared.

“You’re a sick man, Gwaine. A very sick man.” Gwaine merely shrugged as Arthur left the rom.

---

“Hello, Merlin.” Gwaine gave a flirty grin as he wrapped an arm around Merlin’s shoulder all whilst Merlin blushed.

“H-Hello, Gwaine.” Merlin stuttered as he glanced warily at Gwaine’s arm.

“Hey there, Gwaine.” Percival entered and secretly removed Gwaine’s arm from Merlin shoulder, allowing Merlin to breath freely. “I’m Percival, drummer.” Gwaine raised an eyebrow at Percival.

“Pleasure, Percival.” Gwaine winked at Percival.

“I’m Gwen!” Gwen prompted herself behind Gwaine as she let out a hand for a friendly shake.

“Hello there, Gwen.” Gwaine held her hand and shook it, not letting go before he kissed the back of her hand. “Honor meeting such a lovely lady.” He said, making Gwen blush. Arthur cleared his throat as he stood across the room with his arms crossed.

“Enough with the introductions, we should start practicing.” Arthur said, bitterly.

“Shouldn’t we make a band name first?” Gwaine suggested as everyone glanced at him. “We can’t just walk around being untitled.” Everyone nodded their heads.

“Gwaine is sort of right.” Merlin agrees. Typical.

“Alright, what shall be our name?” Arthur said, mockingly.

“I was thinking Death by Soy Sauce.” Gwaine said. “Did you know Soy Sauce increases the rate of cancer?” Arthur slapped his forehead.

“That sounds horrible, Gwaine.” Gwaine shrugged nonchalantly.

“I was thinking, How about Dungeon and Dragons?”

“Is that a reference to your old band?” Arthur laughed.

“Hey! We were a great band!” Gwaine bit back.

“How about the Pendragonlords?” Merlin suddenly said, making the whole room quiet.

“What kind of a name—“

“That’s actually quite brilliant.” Percival said as Arthur widened his eyes at him. “How did you think of that?’

“Well, Arthur’s last name is Pendragon,” Merlin started explaining. “And I play online games and my status is a dragon lord.....” Percival blinked.

“You play online games?” Percival said with a teasing tone.

“Shut up!” Merlin retorted.

“Well then, who votes for the Pendragonlords?” Arthur asked.

“Me.” Gwen raised her hand ecstaticaly as she glanced at Merlin.

“And I.” Percival raised his hand, giving an approving glance at Merlin.

“Nothing better to do.” Gwaine smirked as he did too.

Arthur sighed. “Then it’s settled. We are now called, the Pendragonlords.” Everyone cheered as Arthur approached Merlin and sighed.

“I could’ve thought of something better.” Arthur shrugged nonchalantly. But smirked when he saw Merlin’s face fall. “But that’s a great name, Merlin.” He covered up as Merlin began to grin like his foolish self.

---

“Gwen. Who is this.” Arthur said, obviously irritated.

“This is Leon.” Gwen smiled as she gestured at him. “He’ll be my assistant.” Arthur rolled his eyes.

“You don’t need an assistant Gwen!” Arthur said, grasping her shoulders and shaking her a little. Gwen opened her mouth, an act of being offended.

“I do, I’ll have you know!” Gwen said, dramatically. “Everything needs to be precise and only Leon can help me in that! He—“

“Gwen.” Arthur said, gritting his teeth. “Fine.” Arthur said, throwing his hands up in the air. “Do whatever you want, as long as the band stays in one piece—“

“Arthur, you’re in a band?” Arthur turns around to see his sister.

“Morgana?” Arthur says, in dismay. “Why are you here—“

“I came to visit, moron.” Morgana said. “Now what is it with this ‘band’ business?” Morgana said, crossing her arms for a good listen. Arthur sighed.

“I just made a band recently, we’re called the Pendragonlords—“

“I like it.” Morgana said, cutting him off. “I’ll be the manager.” Arthur widened his eyes.

“You can’t just decide whatever you want, Morgana!” Arthur said, angrily.

“I’ll have you know that I can and I will!” Morgana said, sternly. Arthur groaned as he turned around and raised his hands up in a defeated way.

“Fine! Do whatever you want to do!” Arthur said, walking out of the room.
“That went better than expected.” Arthur heard Morgana say.

---

“Hello, I’m Morgana” Morgana greeted cheerily as he stood in Arthur’s living room, Gwaine and Percival on the couch while Merlin sat on the floor in a pretzel like position. “I’m your Manager.” Arthur sighed behind Morgana.

“Nice to meet you, Morgana.” Percival was the first to stand to shake Morgana’s hand.

“Pleasure to meet you, Morgana.” Gwaine winked and Morgana grinned back just as flirty as Gwaine.

“And I’m Gwen.” Gwen said with such glee. “And this is Leon.” She motioned to Leon, who was standing behind her.

“Pleasure, Leon.” Morgana smiled. “Gwen.” She smirked at Gwen in a predatory-like way, making the petite girl blush.

“And who do we have here?” Morgana grinned evilly as she approached Merlin. Arthur cleared his throat.

“T-That’s Merlin, Morgana.” Arthur said.

“I can introduce myself, you know.” Merlin said, trying to act strong despite the pink tinge on his cheeks. “But yeah, I am Merlin.” Merlin smiled as he looked timidly at Morgana.

“Oh my god.” Morgana said. “He’s adorable!” She squealed, shocking all the people in the room as Morgana started hugging Merlin. “Can we keep him Arthur?” Arthur rolled his eyes, not at Morgana but himself, for actually thinking about it.

---

“Hello, hello, Testing. 1, 2, 3.” Arthur spoke into the microphone as he stared before Morgana, Leon and Gwen, who were sitting in the couch. “Right, well, we’ll be practicing a song, so, please enjoy.” Arthur said as he looked behind his shoulders, checking if the members were ready, before mouthing “1, 2, 3, 4” Then they started playing their instruments, the notes melodically blending. Arthur closed his eyes, feeling the music before he opened his mouth to start singing.

You think you got me
I’m trying to have some fun
You think you know it all
I’ve only just begun.

He cracked one eye open as he glanced expectantly at the three critics. Morgana gave a satisfied smile as she leaned over at Gwen to whisper something inaudible, but making the smaller girl blush, who leaned over to Leon to whisper, who ended up grinning from ear to ear. Arthur smiled, knowing Morgana.

You’re sliding on the surface
I’m reaching for the bottom,
The past is so suppressing
The future fades away

Before he even knows it, he’s glancing at Merlin with a smile as he sings. A few moments later that Merlin finally notices his glance. They stare into each other’s eyes for a while, blue eyes meets blue eyes. Finally, Melrin blushes and looks away. But even after, Arthur continues to stare at him.

And if you think your brain is hollow
You just have to scream
And dig a little deeper

And then it happens.

There’s a slight screeching sound and then they notice something off. “Shit.” Merlin breathed out. Everyone looks at him, seeing that a string of his bass instrument got cut. Merlin blinked, obviously holding back tears. “Shit shit, Gwen, I’m so sorry.” Merlin said airily. “Fuck, I am so—“ But Merlin wasn’t able to finish his sentence before running out of the room.

“What’s his problem?” Gwaine asked, sounding concerned and weirded out.

“That wasn’t his bass.” Arthur started explaining. “And now he thinks he’s fucked things up.” Arthur sighed.

“Whose bass was it, then?” Percival asked.

“Mine.” Gwen sighed. “He really didn’t want to use mine, that’s why he was quite reluctant of the idea of the band.” Gwen said. Arthur bit his lips as he put away his instrument.

“Practice is over.”

---

“You need to give him something.”

Arthur looked up from his magazine and stared at Morgana straight through out. “Excuse me?” He said, unable to say anything else.

“You should invite him to my Christmas party!” Morgana squealed. “That’s brilliant!” Morgana started jumping up and down. “And give him something! Something he’d love—“

“Morgana.” Arthur said, seriously. “I don’t think he’d like that.” Morgana frowned.

“And why not?” She said, placing her hands on her hips.

“He just—“ Arthur said, incoherently. “He just doesn’t.” Morgana shrugged.

“Never know until you try.” She walked away, leaving Arthur pondering.

---

It was a stupid thing, it was too late, Arthur knew. But somehow, he thought it was right. He put on his coat as he went out of his dorm to head to Merlin’s room. He counted his steps, as stupid as that sounded, but that seemed like the only thing he could do, with his sweaty palms and his dry lips. He finally stood before the room and knocked, placing his hands inside the pockets of his pants.

“Whoissit?” Merlin said with words so slurred he sounded foreign.

“Hey.” Arthur breathed out, obviously breathless from the running.

“Arthur?” Merlin asked, completely shocked. “What are you doing here?”

“I just.. I-“ It only dawned to Arthur then that his reason wasn’t valid enough to wake Merlin up at this ungodly hour. “I just wanted to ask if you wanted to go with me Morgana’s Christmas party.” Arthur asked, looking down at his feet and unable to look at Merlin properly.

“Arthur, what time is it?” Merlin asked, obviously annoyed.

Arthur checked his wristwatch and sighed. “Quarter to 1.” Arthur said, softly.

“Couldn’t it have waited until tomorrow?” Merlin said, containing his anger as Arthur winced a little. Arthur shut his eyes, he couldn’t bear hearing no from Merlin. Then Merlin sighed.

“Alright. I’ll go, Arthur.” Arthur faced him and grinned from ear to ear. “Oh, stop being so smug. I just felt bad for you, anyway.” Merlin rolls his eyes affectionately as he closes the door, leaving Arthur to his happiness.

---

Arthur groaned as he held the side of the banner that had ‘MERRY CHRISTMAS!’ written in all caps. He liked that banner though. He made it himself, purposely planning on writing ‘CRAPPY CHRISTMAS!’ but Morgana caught him red handed and told him to write the proper thing on the other side. Arthur obliged, but couldn’t’ help but laugh at himself for that.

“Is it alright now?” Arthur asked, irritated as Morgana held the other end of the banner for pinning.

“Almost….” Morgana grunted as she reached the portion of the wall. “There!” Morgana squealed as she walked back to appreciate her work. She made a rectangle with her fingers, figuring out if the spot was perfect. Suddenly, the doorbell rang.

“Our first guest!” Morgana screamed. “But, he’s...” She checked the clock behind her. “Early. Too early.” Morgana narrowed her eyes, not believing it. But in the end, she headed to the door and opened it, squealing incoherently.

“Morgana, who is it—“ Arthur stopped as his eyes averted to messy black hair. “Merlin.” Arthur said, sounding more amused than he should have been. Merlin looked up at Athur and grinned goofily as he took off his black trenchcoat, revealing a blue argyle striped sweater vest he was wearing with black jeans and oh God did he look amazing.

“Hey Morgana.” Merlin smiled. “Arthur.” Merlin nodded his head, acknowledging his presence. Arthur smiled, opening his mouth but he decided against it.

“Right, well, I’ll get you something to drink.” Morgana gritted her teeth as she walked to the kitchen. “Would you like Lemonade or Raspberry Iced Tea?”

“Raspberry Iced Tea, please.” Merlin replied politely. “Did I come at a wrong time or..” Merlin asked Arthur.

“Oh no, Morgana just expected the visitors to come later.” Arthur explained. “She doesn’t like being unprepared.” Arthur said as Merlin nodded, somehow understanding that aspect of Morgana.

“Nice banner.” Merlin pointed to the banner that was newly pinned.

“Yeah.” Arthur agreed. “Morgana designed the whole thing. I just wrote the words.” Merlin snickered, as if it was unbelievable of Arthur to even write. But then stops himself when Artrhur glares. “Did she draw that?” Merlin asked as he saw a drawing of a landscape.

“Yeah,” Arthur said. “She’s an artist.”

“Oh,” Merlin said, unsurprised. “Does she like, draw naked subjects?” He asked, blushing.

“Only if that subject is you.” Morgana finally came in with a wink. “Here you go, Merlin, Raspberry Iced Tea.” Merlin nodded a thanks to Morgana. “And you, Arthur.” Morgana passed over another glass to Arthur, who gladly accepted it.

“So, Merlin, why are you here?” Morgana asked, sternly. “Shouldn’t you, I don’t know, be with your friends or something?” She asked, stiffly as Merlin looked over at Arthur mouthing ‘I get it’, at which Arthur shrugged.

“Oh, I just moved last month, so I don’t know that much people.” Merlin explained. “But if your not prepared, I could come later. There’s a coffee shop at the other side and—“

“No.” Morgana sighed. “You could help us, if you like?” Merlin grinned.

“That’d be awesome.” Merlin said, smiling.

---

“Merlin, be a dear and help me place the food on the table.” Morgana said, handing him the turkey.

“Morgana,” Merlin said, shocked. “This is too much.” Morgana laughed.

“Nothing is too big during Christmas.” Morgana said before going back to the kitchen. “Arthur! The banner is falling off!” Morgana shouted as Arthur groaned.

“On it.” He said as he stood up from his seat and walked to the banner to pin back.

“Hurry! They’re almost here!” Morgana called as she nervously checked her wristwatch.

“Such a rush.” Merlin commented as he ran to help Arthur with the banner.

“Every year.” Arthur said, bemused as he finally got to pin the banner. “Thanks for helping, by the way.” Merlin grinned at him.

“No problem.” Merlin said as the doorbell rang.

“Shit.” Arthur whispered. “Here comes trouble.” Arthur said, heading to the door to open it. He blinked furiously. “Gwen?”

“Hello Arthur!” Gwen greeted cheerfully.

“How did you know—“ Arthur said, not comprehending the current situation.

“You think Merlin was alone in the dorm last night?” Gwen said, giving her are-you-serious face.

“Oh.” Arthur said, giving a face of understanding. “Right.” Arthur blushed, not from the fact that he was caught, but from the fact that he did think about it.

“Yes, well, Merry Christmas.” Gwen grinned as she gave Arthur a box with small Christmas trees and a ribbon wrapped on top.

“Thank you.” Arthur smiled. “Merry Christmas.”

“Gwen, dear!” Morgana grinned like there was no tomorrow. “Such a surprise to see you.” She hugged Gwen, as Gwen blushed at the crook of her neck.

“Yes, well, Morgana,” Gwen said, timidly. “The feeling is mutual.” Gwen grinned awkwardly as Morgana grinned back, not awkwardly though.
“Merlin.” Gwen said as he ran towards him for a hug. “You didn’t eat dinner last night.” Merlin sighed.

“Don’t mother me now, Gwen.” Merlin said, feeling embarrassed.

“That’s just me being me, Merlin, now stop fussing and get me something to drink.” Merlin sighed.

“Yeah, yeah.”

---
Hours later, more and more guests started arriving. Percival came, then Leon, then Gwaine, and so on and so forth. Gwen’s brother even arrived hours after her, explaining that he had a shift to take over.

“I’m Elyan.” He grinned like Gwen, making Merlin uncomfortable. Having one Gwen was enough for him.
“Pleasure to meet you.” Arthur said, prompting himself next to Merlin.
“Likewise.” Elyan grinned. “You must be Merlin?” Elyan said, putting out a hand for a shake. “Gwen talks about you all the time. He never mentioned blond hair and fit body.” Elyan commented as Gwen blushed.
“Elyan, that’s Arthur.” Gwen whispered to him as Elyan’s face grew from eagerness to shock. “That’s Merlin.” Gwen pointed not so subtlety at Merlin, who was looking down at his feet and shuffling them.
“Oh, I’m so sorry.” Elyan said. “You’re still much more than I imagine, though.” Elyan chuckled as Merlin all but smiled.
“Nice to meet you, Elyan.” Merlin whispered and soon more people appeared and greeted Morgana and Arthur. Arthur’s hand slowly grew tired from all the shaking of hands and it was freezing. Arhutr breathed on his hand, hoping that his breath could warm it up a little, before his eyes averted to the balcony, where a familiar skinny man watched the scene from the ledge. Grinning, Arthur approached the man and passed him a cup of hot chocolate.
“Drink?” Arthur suggested as Merlin grinned before grabbing the cup. Merlin opened his cup before looking back at the scenery

“It’s quite a party.” Merlin said after a few sips.

“Yeah,” Arthur said, looking down at his hot chocolate, feeling the warmth seep in. “I didn’t expect so many people to be here.” Merlin grinned. There was silence. But not the awkward type. Just the normal silence.

“So,” Arthur tried starting a conversation. “How are you today?” Arthur asked as Merlin laughed a little.

“Really?” Merlin asked. “Out of all other things,” Merlin sighed. “I’m fine, Arthur.” Merlin said as he took of his glasses for a nice cleaning, lifting the hem of his shirt and revealing a part of his stomach that Arthur was definitely not staring at. “And you?”

“Good, good.” Arthur replied, nodding before sipping his hot chocolate. “Pretty boring, though. We haven’t been practicing much.” To this, Merlin tensed.

“I’m not sure if I still want, Arthu—“

“Wait, stop, I’ve got a present for you.” Arthur said, stumbling away to a corner of the balcony, before coming back with a big box. “Merry Christmas.” He greeted before handing over the present.

“Arthur, you didn’t have to.” Merlin said, at a loss for words.

“I know.” Arthur shrugged. “I wanted to.” Merlin smiled wholeheartedly at him. “Go on, open it!” Arthur ushered him. Merlin gave a hesitant face, but decided to open it anyway. After ripping the wrappers to and fro, Merlin encountered a box. Slowly, he opened the box, somehow knowing what was already inside.

“A-Arthur....” Merlin said, holding an obvious brand new bass that Arthur bought him. “This is too much...” Arthur laughed.

“Nothing’s too much for me.” Merlin glared as he pushed Arthur playfully.

“You’re such a prat.” Merlin rolled his eyes affectionately. “I didn’t even get a chance to give you anything...” Merlin said, sorrowfully as he stared down at his cup of hot chocolate, circling the top. Arthur sighed.

“You didn’t need to buy me anything, it’s fine.” Arthur insisted and Merlin took a deep breath. “Besides, I don’t want the band to end just yet.” Arthur grinned as Merlin looked just as glad as he did.

“We better go back in, They might be wondering what we’re doing out here.” Merlin suggested as he walked a little ahead of Arthur.

“Yeah,” Arthur agreed as he caught up. Once opening the door, Merlin entered first followed by Arthur. But seconds before entering, the whole room erupted in laughs and screams. Merlin and Arthur gave questioning looks. Morgana, who was covering her mouth to hide the giggles, pointed above them. Looking up, directly above Merlin and Arthur, was a little mistletoe. Merlin stared wide-eyed before facing Arthur. Arthur bit his lower lip.

“You really don’t have to—“ But Arthur’s sentence was cute when Merlin placed his lips upon his. Arthur couldn’t believe that his lips were just as soft as it looked, not that Arthur was even looking. Arthur shifted his head a little, making their position easier as they continued to kiss. Finally, Merlin pushed him away lightly. Arthur’s eyes were wide and glassy, as was Merlin’s. Merlin bit his lips before giving a goofy smile. They stared at each other for a while, not believing what just happened.

“Merry Christmas everyone!” Merlin cheered, looking away from Arthur. Arthur stood there for a moment, but finally managed to sit down and just think.

“He’s a nice guy, Merlin.” Morgana said as she sat down next to Arthur. Arthur glanced at her with furrowed eyebrows. She merely shrugged and walked away, leaving a confused Arthur and a cup of half-empty hot chocolate.

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