USUK Fairy Tale chapter 6

"So you know how to hold a sword, right? Show me the stance." Arthur scoffed at the question. He may not have practiced much with the sword, but he did know some things. He lifted the heavy sword off the ground and held it out in front of him.

"L-like this, right?" Arthur moved carefully, so not to open his wound again. But he had to train, no time to waste!

"Almost. You need to widen your stance slightly, and balance your weight evenly." Alfred placed his hands on Arthur's back and sides, shifting him slightly. Arthur's face heated up slightly at the contact. Alfred let go, and Arthur nearly fell over.

"Ah. S-sorry." Alfred turned his head slightly.

"Are you feeling well, your majesty? Your face is bright red." Arthur covered his face and turned away, embarrassed. Idiot! This is not what a prince should be acting like! Getting embarrassed over this git. Sure he's kind and really handsome and… no! Arthur shook the thought away and calmed himself.

"I-I'm fine. Continue." He mustered up all the manliness he could at the moment. Alfred smiled and continued.

"So stand like this once more." Arthur imitated the stance Alfred was holding. He held the sword out in front of him. He scowled, feeling the awkwardness of the stance. "Don't scowl, you're almost there."

"It's just… Awkward." Alfred chuckled slightly.

"It normally is at first. You'll get it soon. Don't worry." Arthur only got more angry.

"I don't have until 'soon'! I need to know now! My Kingdom is in danger and I am the only one who can stop my bloody brother!" Arthur yelled at Alfred. Alfred was slightly stunned, and Arthur, himself, was quite shocked at what he had just said. He turned away. Almost immediately he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"It's alright your majesty. You're just under a lot of pressure. But I assure you, there is no need to rush. You'll get it." A bright smile met Arthur's face. And maybe a light tint to his cheeks. No, it couldn't be. He definitely isn't blushing. It must be my imagination.

"You're right. But I shouldn't have spoken so unkindly. My apologies." Alfred just smiled more. God Arthur is so cute. But no. He is my king. I. I mustn't think like this.

"Not necessary your majesty. Shall we continue?" Arthur nodded. Alfred continue to show Arthur how to hold the sword. Arthur began to catch on quickly, and they soon moved on to attacking.

"I think that's good enough for today your majesty. Would you like some supper?" Arthur was tired from working in the heat of the midday sun, and now that it was nearing dusk, he only wished to rest. He could only nod, attempting to speak between his deep breaths.

"I think that would be for the best." Alfred took the sword from Arthur's hands and placed it inside. He then guided Arthur to the table and sat him down. He placed a small glass of water in front of him for him to drink.

"Drink up. You have worked hard your majesty." He lifted the glass to his lips and drank thirstily. Alfred smirked as he placed the cup down. "Thirsty your majesty?"

"Do not smirk at me! It was a long day, and I would much rather write than fight with swords. It seems quite childish to go in to battle with long weapons with only intent to injur one's self. It is utterly-" He cut himself off, seeing Alfred's smile disappear. "Pardon me. I should not speak in such a way. My Apologies."

"Do not fret, your majesty. I can understand that fighting would not appeal to you. But, you say write your majesty?"

"Yes. While my brothers were out in swordsplay, I was writing in my chambers. I would read the stories to my little brother Peter." He thought for a bit. "Oh Peter. He must be grieving over me now, mustn't he."

"I'm sure he will be fine until your return, your majesty. For now, would you like to tell me one of your tales? It would be of great pleasure to hear your stories." Arthur looked up, surprised.

"If you wish, I suppose I could." Alfred began to cook supper as Arthur told him on of the many tales he had written from before.