A/N: Hello September! I'm back from America finally so anyone following weakness can expect an update later this month. This is the 3O day OTP challenge and it is Merthur, so, if slash isn't your thing…you were warned. Also If I don't update then it means I was too busy and two wil be coming the next day.

"Speaking"

Thoughts

A/N Author notes

Enjoy!

Day 1: Holding hands.

Arthur had held Merlin's hand hundreds of times throughout their time together. Reassuring touch that lasted only seconds, pulling each other from the ground (but not into a hug), and, when one or the other was injured, helping them onto their horse. This was of course common when you were a danger-magnet prince and his secret sorcerer. Merlin knew though that this time was different.

Arthur's hand was lightly curled around his; his thumb lightly ghosting over the back of Merlin's hand. He stared down at Merlin, who refused to meet his eyes, with kindness and understanding. He knew that Merlin was afraid because he was as well (of course Arthur would never admit that).

Tears were pooling in Merlin's eyes as his body began to gently shake. There wasn't a high chance of Gaius surviving and it was destroying Merlin. Gaius had been like a father to him when he had none. He had been treating an outbreak in one of the outer villages when a group of bandits and sorcerers had attacked; Gaius had been badly injured trying to protect his patients. The sounds of pained moans and gasps coming from the next room elevated Merlin's fear until he couldn't think anymore. Merlin didn't notice when Arthurs hand slipped gently into his but he finally looked up when Arthur's hand squeezed his gently.

"It's okay Merlin. You know Gaius, nothing'll defeat him. " Arthur's eyes held sympathy but there was also pain too it was then that Merlin understood. Gaius had always been there for Arthur too. Merlin held tighter onto Arthurs hand and together they waited for news, never letting go of their conjoined hands.

A/N: Done! This is the first of 30. I'm not too happy with this one but I haven't written anything in a while and its all good practise, right?

YukiOnnaOfWinter