USUK Fairy Tale chapter 7

A few days had passed since Arthur had met Alfred. He had lived with him, eaten with him, and practiced with him. Alfred had given him the only bed that he had, and he slept on the floor with a few blankets. 'It's a hero's job to aid you in any way, your majesty. No need to fret' he had said so nonchalant.

He would always rouse Arthur from his sleep so early, for the sun had barely dawned upon the land, and guided him out into the chill of the morning. He would take up his sword and begin his practice.

His wounds would then be checked and rewrapped. It was healing, and soon it would no longer last. It shall scar, however. Forever a mark on what has transpired.

"Your wound is healing well, your majesty." Alfred pulled Arthur from his thoughts. He placed a hand on Arthur's wound, and he blushed. "It shall be gone in no time."

"That's wonderful. And what of the war. Any news?" Alfred shook his head in dread.

"The date draws near. He has declared war on the Kingdom of Diamond. He soon will lead a war party into battle."

"So I must learn faster. That is enough. Alfred, please, teach me of the more advanced material. We must hurry."

"Your majesty, I must advise against it. It is far too soon for you to learn such difficult   strikes."

"I do not have much time. The sooner I raid the palace, the sooner I can strike down my brother and end this war that is soon to come."

"Your majesty, the training now is putting a strain on your body. If you work any harder the wound will reopen and-"

"I understand your concern, Alfred. But I have to do this for my Kingdom. I do not have time for selfishness."

"I have concern, so be it not selfish if it is for me." Arthur pondered this and sighed.

"My deepest apologies that I cannot fulfill your wish. But I must train. Come, we must work."

"Your majesty, I must say no. Punish me if you will, but I will always put your safety first rather than the kingdom. You majesty I would much rather take your place in battle with your brother rather than you, so you may not have to. Please your majesty, hear me, and put this off but for a day longer." Alfred looked upon Arthur with pleading eyes. Arthur sighed.

"I see. Then if you shall insist."

"I do."

"Then I shall wait. This will not wait too long, but one day. When is the battle dated for?"

"King Erin has declared that he shall send an army by the end of next week."

"Damn. No matter. I will defeat him. I am certain." Arthur ate the food in front of him and drank the water. "Thank you for the meal."

"Not a problem your majesty. Would you like to prepare for bed?" Arthur nodded.

"Thank would be much appreciated Alfred." They left the room to dress for bed.

"Your wound has healed well." He touched the scar again, causing Arthur's face to heat up once more.

"Y-yes. It has. I'm certain I can take the training. Maybe we should-"

"Arthur. We may continue tomorrow. But now you need to rest. Please sleep well your majesty." Alfred turned to leave, but Arthur caught him by the sleeve.

"If you don't mind, please take the bed tonight." Alfred shook his head.

"That would be wrong your majesty. I will insure your comfort."

"T-then, you can sleep in it with me." Alfred blushed lightly. "You see I feel uneasy making you sleep on the floor while I sleep comfortably and I find it easier for us to just-"

"T-that would inappropriate y-your majesty."

"Either you take the bed, or we take it together. This is a degree from your majesty." Arthur flushed a deeper red, but Alfred smiled.

"Well, then, we must sleep together."

"Idiot, I did it to be nice."

"But of course."