Gwaine searched for water while Elyan stood watch outside.
Arthur knelt beside his injured servant, tucking the blanket more closely round his neck.
"Listen, lazybones," said Arthur, "I am ordering you to get well."
No response.
"The trouble with you is your defiance. You've been defying me since the day we met."
Merlin remained unconscious.
"I get it now, you know. You've always stood up to me. Of all the things you've ever done for me, maybe that's been the most important."
The firelight flickered.
The worried prince, already on his knees, decided to try praying.