Disclaimer: I don't own Merlin.
A/N: This is for Ocean's Nocturne of the COCA who thought this would be a good story to continue. (Not that I wasn't sort of planning to anyways.) Sorry, for the shortness of the chapter.
Arthur watched the bustle of people in courtyard below. A young boy that was being yanked along by his mother gave her a pitiful look and whined. His shrill voice reached Arthur's window but the words eluded him. A knight dismounted from his horse; his brow furrowed with worry.
"Breakfast." A cheerful voice called from the door. Arthur turned away from his window to see his servant precariously carry the tray across the room and place on the table. It held a few pieces of bread and an apple.
Arthur narrowed his eyes at his servant, "Are you trying to tell me something again?"
"What?" Merlin asked, picking up a stray shirt. Glancing up from his work, his expression turning from one of playful bewilderment to slight concern. "Oh, you haven't heard?"
"Apparently not." Merlin nodded absently and placed the shirt in the laundary basket.
"Merlin, what haven't I heard?" Arthur bid his manservant.
"Oh. There is a bit of food shortage. A problem with the crops? I don't think there is anything really to worry about." His prattle coming to stop once he noticed Arthur's intense stare.
The prince headed for his dressing screen, pulling off his night shirt, "Prepare me. I must speak with my father."