ext_373682 ([identity profile] gilli-ann.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] camelot_drabble2022-03-07 09:07 pm

Another Kind of Fight

Author: [livejournal.com profile] gilli_ann
Title: Another Kind of Fight
Rating: G
Characters: Merlin, Arthur
Summary: When the prince gets ill, Merlin argues for self-care in a language Arthur understands.
Word Count: 250
Prompt: 495 'Fever'
Author's Notes: Canon ficlet, dialogue only



Another Kind of Fight


"Good morning, Sire. Rise and shine!"

"Go away, Merlin."

"Arthur, you're shivering. And you look sweaty."

"Don't fool yourself. It's not because of you."

"As if. Just let me feel your brow.... "

"You're such a girl's blouse, Merlin."

"You're scorching hot."

"Why, thank you."

"You're clearly running a fever, you prat. Are you unwell? Muscle aches? Chest pains?"

"Mostly my chest. I've had much worse. It's time for me to get up."

"You'll be staying in bed. You're ill."

"Nonsense."

"It's probably a chest infection."

"Don't be absurd, Merlin. I'm strong as an ox, at the top of my game. I don't get ill."

"And yet, just telling me that leaves you gasping for air. Everyone gets ill now and then, no matter how healthy they are."

"The heir to Camelot can't be dawdling in bed all day. Get out of my way, you dolt."

"Arthur—"

"Oh. Urghh."

"Dizzy, my lord?"

"Shut up, Merlin. Give me a hand. I must get dressed."

"No. Arthur, you're very ill. The high fever means your body's fighting back, battling the illness. When you stay in bed and rest, you fight. If you don't, the illness may win."

"Well, when you put it like that—"

"I'll get you some fresh water, a bowl of chicken broth, and I'll get Gaius."

"Alright."

"Stay in bed. Fight that battle."

"I'm Camelot's best warrior, Merlin. I'll beat this nuisance in no time."

"See that you do, dollophead. Otherwise, I might just have to beat you.