A/N: Set shortly after Valliant. To understand Arthur's snoring, please visit my other story 'A Monster in the Castle' oh, and nightshirts are a kind of nightie for men. Please R&R!

Disclaimer: I do not own Merlin or any of its characters.

Chapter 2 – The First Night

Arthur watched Merlin set up his bed in front of the chamber doors, an insult played on the Prince's lips. He stood up and strode over to where Merlin was stood, admiring his handiwork. The prince slapped Merlin's shoulder, winding the young warlock, "Well, Merlin. I didn't think you could get any lower, but once again you prove me wrong!"

Merlin was going to reply but thought better of it as the prince made his way to his warm, comfortable, bed. Once Arthur had settled, Merlin did his usual tour of the Prince's chamber to put out the candles and oil burners. On his way back to his bed, Merlin stubbed his toe on one of Arthur's chests. Arthur merely sighed at his servant's muffled curses before rolling over.

Just as Merlin's eyelids were starting to droop, a sound that could have rivaled the Dragon's roar erupted from Arthur's bed. Merlin shot up, "What the…?" he whispered to no one but himself. The sound erupted again and Merlin rolled his eyes before covering his head with his pillow, 'No wander his last servant warned me against sleeping in his chambers!' Merlin thought before sleep claimed him.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

"Oomph!" Merlin awoke to a leg in his stomach and a rather unpleasant view of the Prince. As soon as the still sleeping prince was out of the chamber, Merlin got up and followed, donning his jacket as he went. Gaius had made Merlin promise to try and not to wake the prince as it could be dangerous.

The young warlock groaned inwardly as the prince took the route to the armory. Once inside, the prince picked up a sword and drew it from the sheath. He let the sheath drop to the floor and lifted the sword above his head. Merlin froze. The world around him slowed down as Arthur's grip on the sword lessoned. With a flash of his eyes, Merlin sent the sword flying away from the prince into a pile of lances, scattering them. Merlin had no chance to rest as Arthur was once again on the move.

Half an hour later, the prince was still wandering the castle when he suddenly stopped. Unlike before, Merlin was unready for what was to happen. The prince's legs gave way and the 'ever-loyal' servant dived forward to stop his head hitting the stone floor. As he dived, his ankle twisted and gave way.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

The armourer turned up for duty early for the Prince was inspecting the armory. His mouth dropped open with shock. A sword had hit the lances, one of the lances had fallen on to a loose shelf, a helmet that had been on the loose shelf was now at the opposite side of the room and had landed among the bottles of polish. Some of the bottles had fallen and leaked their contents onto a pile of tunics! Tears ran down his cheeks.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

Arthur awoke to the sun shining in his face. He sat up as delicious smells tempted his nose. Merlin had already set the table for Arthur to break his fast. Merlin walked over to place Arthur's clothes, ready for dressing. The Prince frowned, "Merlin, are you limping?"