ARTHUR'S POV
Merlin had grown quiet over the last week, I saw the gradual fall in his smiles everyday. At first, I attributed it to the new chores he had gained since I became king, but I realized quickly it was something more. The quietness worried me. I can't remember the last time he called me a prat. I laughed silently as the memories of our banters played in my head. My laughter faded though, when I saw my servant's thin frame come through the door.
"Merlin...you're late." I said trying to illicit some kind of response from him.
"Sorry sire." Merlin said in a half whisper.
His response made me feel uneasy like my skin was no longer made for me. I watched him in silence trying desperately to think of what to say to find out what was wrong. That has never been my strong suit. My pride often got in the way, but this was my friend and I don't know how much longer I can watch him waste away.
"Do you know what we're going to do today?" I said slightly loud.
He flinched at the sound of my voice as it filled the air. My eyes caught his for a moment before he looked to the ground. I swear the expression he held was of pure fear. It was silent for another moment before Merlin spoke.
"No sire." It was almost silent.
"We're going hunting! I know how much you love that!" I said with mock excitement. Complain, I thought. That's all I need you to do. Let me know you're still in there somewhere.
"Okay sire, I'll ready the horses." Without breaking his gaze with the floor and with that said he left.
MERLIN'S POV
I can't remember the last time I had slept a full night or ate. Its been a couple days at least. I slowly made my way to Arthur's chambers to start my chores. I was late again, but I hoped he hadn't noticed. I opened the door as silently as possible and slipped inside. I could feel Arthur's eyes tracing my every move, but I didn't care. I knew he was worried but the truth is I am too. I just can't get the visions out of my head and I've lost so much of myself I can barely feel.
Memories of the past few months filled my head while I absentmindedly tidied Arthur's table. I jumped as the sound of Arthur's voice broke the stream playing in my head. My eyes locked his for a second as I focused on trying to calm my heart rate long enough to answer him. I found what was left of my voice and replied not breaking my gaze on the floors of his chambers.
I could hear his breath hitch in his throat before excitedly declaring we were going hunting. Another hunting trip, that's what I needed right now, more nightmares to haunt me as the forests crawl with bandits. I don't even have the energy to convince him not to. I can feel the weight of my destiny crushing me. I leave in an effort to get ahold of my thoughts before riding out, but every time I close my eyes all I see are flames.