Arthur sat with his head in his hands, a blinding migraine rendering him immobile. It had been a long, hot day and he'd been up since dawn training in heavy armour and sat in a blistering hot office talking to irritating people. He'd just about had enough of this day, and was ready for bed. He didn't care that the sun was still out, all he wanted was to sleep. He lifted his head as there was a knock on the door, the sudden brightness making his stomach churn. The door opened and in walked Merlin, a silly grin on his angular face. His brow furrowed as he caught sight of the too-pale king.
'Everything alright' he questioned, setting Arthur's dinner on the end of his bed. The king had been quieter that usual that day. He'd barely spoken during his meeting, and when Merlin had dropped a plate or three he had merely rolled his eyes and walked away instead of yelling as he usually did, and now he looked as good as death himself.
'I'm fine.' Arthur said, quietly.
'You don't look fine.' Merlin moved to Arthur, a look of concern etched onto his face.
'I'm fine,' Arthur repeated. 'Its just a headache.' He did his best to force a smile, but the look on Merlins face told him he ha failed. The sun shone brighter than it had ever done before and he was sure that the walls were moving, closing in on him and making it hard to breathe. His stomach tightened and cold beads of sweat dripped from his hairline.
'Oh, right,' Merlin glanced to the window and then back to Arthur. 'Do you need anything? Water or-'
'No, I'm fine. Just stop talking, please.' The king let his head fall into the desk, and he squeezed his eyes shut to block out the light. Merlin raised an eyebrow. He had never heard the king say please in all the years he'd known him, especially not to him. He reached out a hand and gently placed it on Arthur's shoulder.
'I think you should go to bed.' He stated, lowering his voice. He gripped Arthur's arm gently and helped him to his feet. The king protested, smacking away his hand and stumbling towards his bed.
'Its a headache, I can still walk moron.' He grumbled. Merlin smirked.
'Yes, sire.' Arthur collapsed onto the bed on his stomach, his eyes closing instantly as Merlin took off his boots. Before he headed for the door, he poured Arthur a cup of water and set it on the table and pulled the thick red curtains closed. As he left the room, he whispered goodnight, and as the door shut behind him he was sure he heard the king say thank you.