USUK Fairy Tale chapter 5

Arthur sat on the bed as Alfred unraveled the bandages from his torso. The large stain of deep red had dulled to a dark brown. The bandages were removed fully, after a while, revealing a large gash. The bleeding had stopped, thankfully, but it was only starting to heal. And once it was heals, it would definitely leave a scar.

"So can you tell me what happened?" Alfred asked curiously as he moved his hand to feel the would. "It was not deep enough to kill quickly, but it would have been fatal had I not found you."

"And I am eternally grateful for that."

"So. What happened?" Arthur sighed.

"My brother, Patrick, came in to wake me up, late in the night. He told me my brother was to have me killed, by Patrick's hand. He told me that to save my life, I would have to take a potion. I did. And I fell into a deep sleep. And when I awoke I was here in you room. I know nothing more."

"Ah so that is it. Well, I didn't see so much blood, and I was wondering how you had passed out from that." He gingerly touched Arthur's skin, his cold hands causing Arthur to shiver. "Well, this gash will heal quickly, but you must not strain it too much."

"How long will it take." He took the new bandages and began to wrap Arthur's torso once more.

"A couple days. But I wouldn't risk it. I know you're going to fight King Erin, so you might want to rest a bit longer." Arthur swallowed.

"F-fight?" Alfred turned his head slightly.

"Of course. What did you expect to do? Battle with your wits?"

"I didn't really think about what I would do. I mean. It makes sense that I would have to fight, but…" Arthur trailed off.

"But what? I'm sure that you majesty will be just fine dueling with your brother. You did receive the training as he did."

"I actually didn't." Alfred finished wrapping and sat on the bed next to Arthur.

"What do you mean?" Arthur sighed.

"My brother has actually been the one for fighting. I preferred to stay in my room writing stories that I would read to my younger brother Peter. I never was one for fighting."

"So you're saying that you don't know how to fight? No hand to hand, nor swordsplay? No dueling whatsoever?" Arthur shook his head.

"I'm afraid not. Oh what am I going to do!" He put his head in his hands.

"Not to worry, your majesty. I can always teach you." Arthur looked up confused.

"What would you know about dueling?" Alfred grinned taking out his sword.

"I happen to be a very strong swordsman! I can probably teach you how to fight in the end. Heck, I can even fight with you!" If that grin could get any wider, it did. But Arthur shook his head.

"No, I would not endanger you with my problems. It is my responsibility to defeat Erin. It is for my kingdom."

"Do I not reside within it as well?"

"Well, yes, but-"

"Then it is my duty to serve the kingdom and it's ruler whenever necessary. Please allow me to serve you, your majesty." Arthur thought for a bit. It would be useful to have a trained swordsman there to help him. Only if needed. And if he were to go it alone, he would surely die.

"Alright. I will allow you to assist me." Alfred smiled once more.

"Thank you, your majesty. I am happy to be of service."