Authors notes: (by the way, I edited the previous chapter a little bit because I didn't like it that much. I only added more detail to it c: ) In this chapter, Merlin begins to think his feelings. Enjoy! :)

Merlin walked up the stairs of the castle slowly by Gaius's side. They didn't talk. A solemn silence had fell all over Camelot since it had happened. The knight was in the dungeons, but right now Merlin couldn't care less about that. He just wanted to see Arthur.

Merlin's thoughts swirled around in his head, most his thoughts about Arthur being dead, about if he didn't survive. He tried to stop it, tried to black it out. He didn't want to believe Arthur was going to die, and he wasn't going to let that happen either. Gaius would have a cure, he was sure of it. Gaius always did.

But what if Arthur was to die? What would he do? He couldn't think about that, not now, not ever. He wiped his eyes furiously, trying not to cry for what seemed the hundredth time since this morning.

He blamed himself, really. It was his fault. He should have stopped it! He could have used magic! He didn't give a damn about the consequences if it meant Arthur would be safe! But he didn't. He was stupid. He didn't see it coming when he should have, he didn't react quick enough. He just didn't do anything to stop it and now Arthur was dying.

"Gaius." Merlin croaked, trying not to sob as he spoke. He hadn't spoke at all since it all happened. He shut himself off. It was only when Gaius announced he might have a cure he decided to come out again.

"Yes, Merlin?" Gaius was looking at him with worry. He could see how much Merlin was hurt, and he knew Arthur meant a lot to him, perhaps even more than a friend. It must be hard, the two had always been so close.

"W-Will.. will it work?" He was looking at the floor. Afraid if he looked up, he'd see nothing but sorry, regret, and disappointment.

"I don't know, Merlin." He answered truly. "I hope it does."

"Me too." He mumbled.

Walking in to see Arthur almost made Merlin want to cry. He stood outside the door to his room for about 5 minutes dreading going in, until Gaius finally told him he had to, that he should see Arthur.

When Merlin saw Arthur laying so peacefully on top the bed, arms by his side, wearing nothing but boxers, mouth set in a straight line, Merlin thought he'd break down. He looked so content, so perfect even though he was wounded. How could one possibly look so angel like, so beautiful, even though they're dying? He stared at his prince, captivated by how lovely he looked in such a horrible time.

Both Gaius and Uther had noticed that Merlin was staring at him, and they shared a look. Uther realized Arthur's death would hit everyone hard, definitely himself -he hadn't given up yet, there was still hope from Gaius- and Merlin more than most people. They saw Merlin's eyes glisten with the tears that threatened to spill, they saw how he was trying to remain calm.

Uther looked between his son and his son's manservant, and with a sigh he decided he should leave. He had spent enough time by Arthur's side already, it was time to leave Merlin so he could have some time. He placed his hand on Gaius's arm, nodded towards Merlin and then the door. He nodded back then they both headed out after giving Arthur the potion, leaving Merlin with his prince.

Merlin, although realizing the others had left the room, remained still in his place. He was stunned still. What would he do? Simply sit by his side and pray for his health? Merlin nodded to himself. That was exactly what he was going to do.

He took a seat besides the bed and gently reached out, cautiously taking Arthur's hand in his and stroking the back of his hand with his thumb soothingly. He sat in silence for a while, just looking at Arthur, studying his fine detail. Every freckle, every scar, every line. It was all so... so perfect. He was perfect. His prince was perfect.

I know it's not that much but I have to stop it there as I'm going out! I thought this would be a good place to stop as any! I really hope you liked it. Please tell me what you think! ^.^