arthur-of-camelot

[arthur-of-camelot]

*Don't cry don't cry don't cry fck I lose...*

[arthur-of-camelot]

Leslie Odom Jr. for Flaunt Magazine by Jonny Marlow

[arthur-of-camelot]

Into the West

In which Arthur Pendragon takes his final bow and says his goodbyes.

tw: death, blood, emotions ok I got real emo @fallcntrees @geehosaphat  @eilonwy-notjustgirl @labellerose-acheron @truitt-story @marzelsoto @aurora-rosewood @alzcomicbarn @simba-bonfamille-lyons

Goodbye to Belle!

Lay down your sweet and weary head The night is falling, you have come to journey’s end

Arthur Pendragon tw: blood, dying

He knew in his bones that this was it. The feeling was not an unfamiliar one. Once long ago there had been a great battle too. The people were dressed differently, the enemy with swords and not magic, but the outcome felt the same. Innocent people strewn across the room...but Zira was dead. Zira had been defeated, and that at least would do some good for this town.

Arthur let go of his chest for a moment and put his hand over Simba's. "Simba..." he shook his head. He was certain that it would be no use. The wound was too deep and even if they could get someone to come help...there was not nearly enough time. But he did have time for some things. He could speak to his knights, he could thank them for all that they had done....and he could say his goodbyes.

"I...I need you to do something for me," Arthur said after a moment, a small smile spread across his face. "Can you gather up the knights? I..." he sucked in a sharp breath and let it out again. "I don't have much time, but I would like to see them all before...." he squeezed Simba's hand. "Will you do this for me?" 

Belle Acheron

Belle had known that everything was going to go to hell. She had felt it in her bones and it was a comforting feeling, for usually, attacks came without warning. However, what she hadn't expected was Hades collapsing within moments. He was supposed to do this by her side. He wasn't dead, but it was clear that whatever had happened to him was not good, that if they didn't fix it--But they would fix it, because the knights outnumbered the vampires. The Blackwells.This would be their victory.In the meantime, Belle had spent her time trying to help Hades and the others that had been poisoned, jumping from body to body to turn them on their sides and make sure that they were at least breathing before she took a deep breath and tried to start brainstorming. She watched as Zira fell, as her compatriots handled Vitani and Nuka, waiting to jump in if necessary but knowing her mind was better spent trying to find a solution and how could she do anything else when Hades was one of the people she needed to save?

The sound of her name being called had her getting reluctantly to her feet and moving from Hades' side. Most of the danger had passed but now--Belle realized why much of the fighting had stopped as she came upon Arthur--ashen and covered in blood. Her own breath caught in her throat and she hovered a few steps away, unable to force herself closer."Oh, Arthur," she murmured, her hands going to cover her mouth, as if she could press that feeling of dread back inside herself.

Arthur Pendragon Arthur turned his head at the sound of Belle's voice. Good. Belle was one of the more level headed of the bunch. The knights would need that. And he believed he could trust her to do what needed to be done.

"You will no longer need to worry about Zira," Arthur informed her softly, a weak smile stretched across his face. "I feel better knowing my actions today could make up for my uselessness the last time we faced her together." He still felt bad for his failure then, even if there hadn't been much option then.

Arthur gestured for her to come a little closer. "Can you come closer? I...I have two things I want to say to you."

Belle Acheron

tw description of stabbing/anxiety/ptsd Belle didn't want to get closer. She couldn't even look at Arthur's face. Her eyes were fixed on the dagger in Arthur's chest. The mirror wound on her own chest burned and she knew, without knowing how she knew, that--

Arthur would not be getting up and walking out of here.

When Arthur spoke, Belle blinked rapidly to clear her vision and tore her eyes from his wound so that she could look at his face. She clenched her hand into a fist to stop its trembling and moved closer, kneeling down across from Simba.

"You weren't useless, Arthur," Belle told him softly. She reached out and grabbed his hand, giving it a squeeze. The world felt like it was tilting around her, like she might faint, but she just smiled at him. "We made a good team and you succeeded. You beat them."

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur hummed, squeezing Belle's hand back softly, a small smile spread across his face. "It relieves me a little to hear you say so." He sucked in a shaky breath and let it out again. He had to push past those feelings of guilt now. There were more important things to say...about the knights, Excalibur, and Belle. He wanted to thank her. He wanted to thank them all.

"I would like to start by asking you for a favor." Arthur glanced toward Excalibur that rested at his side. "I know you to be.... a... a level headed woman. In fact, of the whole group.... I am certain you would be the most capable of steering everyone right." He sucked in another breath. "Will you hide Excalibur? This weapon in the wrong hands...it could do untold damage."

Arthur knew that something as legendary as the sword was difficult to send away. The temptation to keep something so useful would be there. But he firmly believed Belle would do the right thing.

Belle Acheron

Belle was still trying to push away at her instincts that wanted to run from Arthur and his wounds. The very same ones she had had, once upon a time. Those fatal wounds. She could remember, looking at him, how cold it had been. How terrible it had been to die alone on the floor of the bookshoppe--

Except, Arthur wasn't alone. He was surrounded by people who loved him. Who looked up to him. Belle knew that it was gentler to go that way. And as much as she wanted to use whatever nonexistent power as the Queen of the Underworld, there was nothing she could do except let a dying man tell her what he wished.

Her eyes strayed to the sword at his side as he mentioned it and it was Bedivere who appeared for just a moment. This scene having played out once before, thousands of years ago. Then, Bedivere had hesitated, had wondered at Excalibur's great power and if it was not better used...and Belle wondered...would she make the same mistake? Would she be strong enough to let got of a weapon that might protect her family in the future?

"Of course, Your Highness," she told him, keeping her voice from wavering, though she did not know how. "I won't let it fall into the wrong hands again, I swear to you."

Arthur Pendragon

A small smile spread across Arthur's face. He could rest easier knowing that he had asked this of Belle. While the temptation would always be there...he was sure that she would do the right thing.

"I know you won't. I have faith in you. You'll do what needs to be done." Arthur had always known that Belle would do so. She did everything that she could. She had done so while pregnant, she would certainly do it now. Sometimes it felt like there was nothing the woman couldn't do if she set her mind to it.

Arthur took a breath and let it out again. "I want to say how... how proud I am to have been able to...to work with you and get to know you." Arthur knew that they could contribute a good deal of success to her wisdom. "I figure...someone with your wisdom should...should be given a gift worthy of you..." @Sir Kay/Bedivere

Belle Acheron

Doing what needed to be done felt almost as if it was becoming a burden, rather than an honor. The more that she did, the harder it felt like it became. She wondered if there would ever be a time that someone would ask something of her and she would not be able to do it. Or would refuse.

But that was the thing about Belle, she didn't think she could ever refuse. To do so felt like...denying who she was. Which was someone who always wanted to help.

Even now, amongst the chaos, she managed a small blush when Arthur told her he was proud. Not many people said that to her, and she would cherish the fact that King bloody Arthur had said it to her. Had meant it too.

"You don't have to give me anything," Belle told him. "Being your friend, learning from you. That's all I could ever want." 

Arthur Pendragon

It was funny really, that Belle had mentioned learning. He had the kind of knowledge that no historian would have. And he would do what he could to impart some on her. He was certain that this would be more valuable than a trinket.

"Well... I can make no promises as to... to what you'll find, but... I thought my gift to you would be the... the location of Camelot." Arthur managed a small smile. "Or at least...what might be left of it. There were... many hidden tunnels and...and underground dungeons and things...they could still be there..." Arthur sucked in a shaky breath and let it out again.

"As I said, I cannot guarantee it to be a very...fruitful gift...but it may at least be something engaging." 

Belle Acheron

Belle's eyes widened and her grip on Arthur's hand tightened. She couldn't even feel her excitement, because she knew that she would rather had Arthur live than Camelot. A hundred times over she would choose him over Camelot. As queen of the Underworld she knew a thing or two about chasing ghosts and how painful it could be.

"I--" Belle breathed, her lip trembling, but she let go of his hand with one of hers and reached it into her pocket, drawing out her phone. It took her several times to unlock it as blood--hers? Hades'? Arthur's?--smeared across the screen and her hands trembled. She had to keep blinking tears out of her eyes as well, but she managed and set it on her lap between them after having turned on the voice memos.

"If...if you're sure. I will make sure that the knowledge I find is only used for the benefit of others. I promise." She lifted Arthur's hand and kissed the back of it. "Is there anything I can do for you? To--to make you more comfortable?"

I know what it's like, Belle wanted to say. Tell me what you need.

Arthur Pendragon

"I know. You're one of the only people I think.... that I think would actually use such knowledge for good." Arthur knew plenty of people who couldn't help but want to use what they found for their own benefit. Belle had never seemed like that type,

It was why he felt like she could handle what he offered. "I know...but it's what I have to give...and I wish to give it to you." 

Belle Acheron

Belle’s eyes filled with tears, but she did her best to hold them in, pressing her lips together as she nodded. “Alright, tell me then.”

She let Arthur murmur the coordinates. Could hear his breath coming harder and shorter as he spoke and she rubbed her thumb gently over the back of his hand.

“Thank you,” Belle told him once he’d finished. “For this. For your friendship. Know that you are going somewhere gentle. A place for heroes and the best of people.” Belle had always felt that as the Underworld’s queen, she didn’t have any power, but at the very least, she could be sure about death.

“You have no unfinished business, rest easy, Your Highness.” She leaned over and kissed his forehead lightly.

Goodbye to Tiana!

Sleep now And dream of the ones who came before

Tiana Truitt

tw blood

Tiana rushed in. Her ankle still felt a little off, but she didn't care. She had heard shouting coming from this room, and when she saw the scene, a strangled kind of scream came from somewhere Tiana didn't recognize. She didn't even notice Zira. Just Arthur, bleeding on the ground, Simba knelt beside him. "Arthur!" Tiana gasped, dropping to the floor next to him and not even noticing all the blood she was getting on her suit.

He looked like he was in bad shape. Very bad shape. But he wasn't-- he couldn't-- the Knights were going to win! They had outsmarted the Blackwells, they had saved the day-- Arthur was going to live. He had to. It was just a little wound, wasn't it? Surely people had suffered worse.

"Arthur, we need to get you out of here!" She looked around, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "Somebody! Do something!" 

Arthur Pendragon

tw blood

Arthur was grateful that Simba had done what he asked. He had looked reluctant, like maybe he did still think there was something that could be done. He understood that. He'd seen it on the faces of many of his friends, his knights before with each loss they'd dealt with.

"Tiana..." Arthur said softly, a blood covered hand reaching out for her own. "Tiana it's okay. There's nothing that can be done here." He knew that his time here was unnatural anyway. He had been tasked here for the purpose of protecting the town from evil, from Zira...and he had done his best and taken out the monster. He could die peacefully knowing that he had accomplished something.

"Well...there is one thing..." He glanced up at Tiana and smiled slightly. "This may be very old fashioned, but will you allow me to give you a blessing of sorts?"

Tiana Truitt

Terror seized Tiana and she shook her head, a sob escaping from somewhere deep inside her. She didn’t like to cry in front of people. Never had. But she couldn’t help it. This wasn’t how the story was supposed to go. Gareth was supposed to die while working with Arthur, not the other way around. Even the rational part of her that told her there was nothing that could be done for him, that a dagger to the chest meant a certain fate, was drowned out by the alarm bells in Tiana’s head.

And then she saw the smile on Arthur’s face. He had always been so wise, so strong. It was why Tiana had always wanted to do right by him. It was more than just the inner Knight telling her that Arthur was her commander, it was his reassuring eyes, his steady wisdom. The scenes flashed before Tiana— training together with the swords he had gifted the team, Arthur’s calm advice. His encouraging words when Tiana ventured out onto the roof of the church, and how she never feared falling with the line of rope in his hands. Laughing together, playing Dungeons and Dragons while the rest of the team ventured into the unknown. And now, Arthur asking to do one final thing for Tiana.

And suddenly, Tiana understood. She didn’t want to, but she did.

“Go ahead. Please,” Tiana said, nodding and not even bothering to try and stop her tears anymore. She had never been very religious, but she found comfort in ritual. If it was what Arthur wanted, then Tiana wanted it. To the end, she was his Knight.

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur let out a relieved breath, taking her hand and squeezing it gently. "Tiana...you are one of the...bravest people I know. It's been such an honor to...to get to know you...and to know your incredible cooking skills," he said with a small laugh, wincing a little as he did.

"I know that your future will be a good one. You will walk on the highway of greatness. Instead of curses, you shall be greatly blessed. Your little efforts will yield great results and your mouth shall always be filled with songs of victory. I hope that you live the life of joy that you deserve. Don't let anyone make you feel as if you can't do something...you've proven a thousand times over that you can."

Arthur was immensely proud of her, as he was of all of his knights. "And...it's a small thing really, but...there's an old globe in my..my apartment that I'd like you to have. To...to always remember that you have a whole world of opportunity out there."

Tiana Truitt

Tiana tried not to let her fear and grief take over. She tried to focus on Arthur’s words, burn them into her memory. She knew what was happening, even if she didn’t want to accept it. And Tiana never wanted to forget this, ever.

She nodded as Arthur spoke, committing each word to memory. Arthur believed in her. And she wasn’t going to let him down. It seemed to be how Tiana grieved: she committed herself to a legacy.

“Thank you,” Tiana said, her tears slowing now. “I’m going to make you proud, Arthur. I promise. I’m never going to let anything happen to this town. To these people. You did your part and now it’s time for me to do mine.” She mustered a small smile. “Swynlake will be safe. We’ll never forget you.”

Arthur Pendragon

"You have already made me prouder than words can express," Arthur replied warmly. "You already do make me so proud." There was no need for her to work harder than she already had. Arthur knew that she had done amazing and would continue to do so.

"I will never forget you either. I'm certain...certain that I'll look down on you all and will be in awe of all that you guys accomplish without me." He squeezed her hand gently. "Thank you for helping me with everything. Truly...it's been an honor."

Tiana Truitt

There was always more to do. Tiana was sure of that. But the words still hit Tiana, somewhere deep she didn’t go often.

She didn’t know what to say. There weren’t really any words for what she was feeling. So she just nodded. “It’s been an honor for me as well,” she said in a low, choked voice. She glanced over her shoulder. The rest of the knights had arrived. “Goodbye, Arthur. Thank you.” Tiana squeezed his hand and nodded at the person behind her, then took one last long look at the king. She would never forget.

Goodbye to Eilonwy!

They are calling From across the distant shore

Eilonwy Llyr

TW: Blood

Turning away from the fallen Vitani, Eilonwy cradled her injured arm against her body and ignored the blood dripping down her sword. It was done. Not good enough, not fast enough, there were far too many injured that she needed to find a way to help, but the pain fogged her mind slightly as the initial rush of adrenaline began to fade.

That was, until she walked closer and saw the expression in Simba's eyes where he stood next to Arthur. On the ground. Covered in more blood than any person had the right to be.

She ran over and knelt next to him sword clattering to the ground as she felt the way her heart pounded in her chest. The words tumbled out across from each other, speeding up as if she could feel the way she was running out of time before she could consciously think it, "I'm sorry. I should have been with you, I should have been faster, I'm sorry. Please don't go."

Arthur Pendragon

"Eilonwy...." He reached out for one of her hands, squeezing it lightly to try and ground her a little. Even as his chest ached and he struggled for breath, he wanted to be of comfort to her. It had only been a dream, but he still felt as if, in some small way, she was a daughter to him.

"You have done nothing wrong. You don't need to apologize for anything. You've been brilliant." Arthur smiled at her, rubbing his thumb over her hand. "You are such a talented young woman. It is...I'm only sorry I won't be able to see how much more you'll grow and accomplish."

Eilonwy Llyr

As he took her good hand, she squeezed his in return, clinging desperately. He'd been her father in her first ever Swynlake dream, and in nearly every way that made him the first father she'd ever known.

She'd lived her whole life with the knowledge of her own parents death. That loss had always defined her, and she thought she'd come to terms with it. She hadn't known that there was more she could lose after all.

"Tod and I, we stopped Vitani. We'll make sure everyone's ok. You don't have to worry about anything." She wasn't sure if it was Brunor inside her or her own feelings that had her brushing her lips against his hand, pledging fealty as they had in another life. She didn't even notice the first tear begin to roll down her cheek as she did so. 

Arthur Pendragon

"You did?" Arthur asked, his smile only widening. Despite his pain, he knew that he had found a great group of people. They fought hard, and they had done so much to try to protect this place. Just as Arthur had done everything in his power to do so.

"How could I worry with such brilliant knights?" Arthur added, still gripping gently onto Eilonwy's hand. "I only really wish to... to offer you something for the future. Not much...but at least... something. Will you accept a blessing?" 

Eilonwy Llyr

"Of course." She didn't even have to think as she agreed. During the nightmare fog, she had given a blessing of her own to a friend she hadn't realized would become as important as he did. It felt like the closing of a circle to receive one now. She wasn't a healer. She wasn't someone powerful enough to keep him here. And for all she was a knight, there was a part of her that was still the little girl who didn't know what home was and who had never gotten to say goodbye to anyone. She wouldn't waste it now.

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur smiled, reaching for her hand to squeeze it gently. "I hope... that you continue to grow and prosper and... and shine the way that I know you can. You are... an incredibly capable young woman and I hope that you.... you get everything you desire." He sucked in a breath and let it out again. "I wish I could see you continue to succeed."

Eilonwy Llyr

Eilonwy let out a short sob before pressing her lips together again and nodding, trying to take in the words he was saying. Although she knew she would never forget them. How could she? For all the times people had vanished, this was her first ever goodbye. "I'll try. I will. Is there anything you want? Something I can do? Anything you ask, I'll do."

Arthur Pendragon

"I want you to continue to...to do what you can to protect the people of this town." He took a breath and let it out again. "And...I'd like you to accept a small gift...if you will." He debated over what would be the most useful to her. What she would value the most. "In...in my apartment I should have a...a journal somewhere of...of different fighting tactics and...and I wrote down some possible scenarios that...that you could try with incorporating your magic and...and the sword. I know I'm not a magick myself...but I hope it will be helpful to you."

Eilonwy Llyr

Eilonwy had spent the last few years with the knowledge that she was supposed to be Queen one day. But she had never seen what that had looked like for herself, so she didn't know what it was supposed to be. Instead, she knew that when she thought of what it meant to be a royal, she would think of this and think of him.

Even now, she didn't feel comfortable sharing that secret where so many could hear, as it wasn't hers to share. She hoped he would understand. But she could take his promise and inscribe it on her heart. "I will. I promise." For as long as she lived.

The gift had several more tears spilling down her cheeks as she nodded. "I'll treasure it forever. Thank you. Hyd nes y byddwn yn cwrdd eto bydd y duwiau yn eich dal yng nghledr eu llaw."

Goodbye to Aurora!

Why do you weep? What are those tears upon your face? Soon you will see all of your fears will pass away

Aurora Rosewood

Aurora still felt sick to her stomach, both from her magic use and participating in the death of Nuka. But everyone was okay so it was worth it. She had seen Nuka look toward Zira and Arthur and lose control when Zira had died but Aurora's focus had shifted to control Nuka and protect Tiana and Marzel. She hadn't even noticed Arthur on the ground until she was checking that everyone was okay, until it was Simba's voice that signaled anything was wrong.

Then the sickness in her stomach got worse.

He wasn't supposed to die, perhaps she could still help? She had a number of herbs and she could do something. Stumbling over to Arthur sitting at his side trying to assess the wound. They could still fix this couldn't they? But Aurora did know. it was useless it hung in the air.

"I'm sorry," Aurora whispered, tears already starting to slip down her cheeks. She should have helped but if she had- then would Tiana and Marzel be okay? "I'm so sorry."

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur smiled at Aurora. "You have nothing to be sorry for. You are beyond anything I could have imagined." For it was true, he had had some doubts at the beginning. His memories of Lancelot felt a lot more fresh than they actually ought to be. He couldn't help the concern that he had felt.

But Aurora was a breath of fresh air. She did her best, and she was a pacifist at heart. "I am the one who should apologize to you." He took a breath and let it out again. "You...who are so... you who wanted nothing to do with fighting and...and were a peaceful person... I threw you into this. For that I beg your forgiveness." 

Aurora Rosewood

Aurora shook her head, for how sick to her stomach she was that she had helped in the battle she would do it again if it meant the others were safe. No one ever deserved death but these Blackwell's were meant to be dead long ago. Life had meant to move on without them.

"There is nothing to forgive, you fight for those that you can not lose." Looking around briefly Aurora smiled at their group of people. "Please rest your heart of any guilt you have of me. And please know, my legacy with Lancelot might not be one of pride but it will be from now on."

Arthur Pendragon

He let out a relieved breath. He did feel at least somewhat like he could forgive himself if Aurora could forgive him. Arthur felt like there was still so much he hadn't done and wished he could do...but he had done what he had set out to do. He had stopped Zira. He could die in peace knowing he had managed that much.

"Thank you Aurora. You are beyond who Lancelot was. You... you are your own person and... and it is an honor to know you." He forced another quick breath. "I have... I have a blessing and a gift for you. I hope that you will know peace from here on out. I will look down from the stars and know that there goes one of the kindest souls out there."

Arthur managed a small smile. "You are your own person...and with that in mind... I have an old mirror somewhere in my apartment...the frame looks to be of gold....it's useful but it also... whenever you feel doubt or...or worry... look there and see the powerful, beautiful, good knight that I know you to be."

Aurora Rosewood

Tears dripped down Aurora's cheeks faster than she could even attempt to stop them but there was a point she didn't want to. Grief wasn't something to be hidden, this life had been cut too short and Aurora had been unable to do her duty as a knight and protect him. In both Lancelot's life she had failed and could only make the promised to move forward with strength she didn't have before. A resolve for her kindness, a nod to her king that believed in her.

Leaning down Aurora placed a kiss to Arthur's forehead.

"May you know rest among the stars and know we are safe here because of you." Aurora whispered. "It was my honor to know you, To follow your lead once more."

Goodbye to Tod!

What can you see on the horizon? Why do the white gulls call?

Tod Sionnach

TW: blood, ptsd

Tod was in a daze. He could hear the screams, the cries, the panic, but it was as if he were underwater. He was staring down at the body of Vitani and it would flicker from his foe’s body to his grandmother’s body, back and forth, over and over again. He had taken everything from her and everything she would have. Even if she was the enemy, he felt broken by this.

At the calls of Arthur’s name from the others, he folded the woman’s arms over her chest and stumbled away, finding himself in a much more difficult and violent situation.

The knights were all around a dying Arthur and he had blood splattered all over him. What was he supposed to do? What was he supposed to say to someone he looked up to so much? He fell to his knees, leaving his sword beside him.

“Arthur I—“ he was breathing heavily, the tears heavy in his eyes. “Arthur, I’m so sorry. I don’t know what I’ve done. Vitani’s gone I just— What did she do to you? I wasn’t strong enough to help you. I— I’m sorry.” In his eyes, somehow, this was all his fault. He trapped his leader in his unlucky mess. “Don’t go.”

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur glanced over at the boy, shaking his head a little. His head spun a little bit, but he would ignore it. He only had so much time left to care about these minor discomforts. It was alright. He just needed to say his piece.

"You have nothing to apologize for Tod." He managed a small smile. "You defeated Vitani? That's incredible. I always knew you would be able to do whatever you set your mind to. You're...you're a very capable young man." 

Tod Sionnach

Tod shook his head. He was just so clouded with guilt and worry over someone that had meant so much to all of them. What would they ever do without him?

“I laid the final blow, Eilonwy did so much more,” he said, still staring down at his bloodied hands. He didn’t feel capable. He wished he could be so much better. “How— How do I get over taking someone’s life? I know she did awful things but I… I took everything from her.”

Arthur Pendragon

"Hey, you did a great deal." Arthur would not let one of his knights think they were anything other than great for doing what they could.

He reached for one of Tod's hands and squeezed it gently. "You remember what that person would have done if you hadn't. Remind yourself of all the people that will be safe because of your actions. How more people in this town will be able to be free and to live in peace... you allowed for that."

Tod Sionnach

When Tod had felt the warmth of Arthur’s hands, he felt the first tears of many fall down his cheeks. He considered his words, his advice, much more carefully than anyone.

He never had a father or a father figure, he had just assumed that  this was what it felt like to lose one. Someone you looked up to as a role model. Someone great.

“I’ll remember that. Always. I promise.” There was Melody and her cousins that he hoped were safe. Perhaps because of him. “Thank you, Arthur… Is there anything I can do for you? Anything at all? Please.”

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur hummed, debating over what he could say. "Stay safe. I wish... for you to live a happy life." He smiled at Tod softly. "I also... well I have a gift for you. I thought maybe... well I had a feeling something..." he just felt that his days had to be numbered. He was living in a reality that wasn't his own. This was the closest he would get to peace. "There's...a pendant in my study I think... it is something I find quite charming and...I believe it gives a bit of calm...it helps you ease your nerves some."

Tod Sionnach

Tod managed a small smile through his tears and nodded. “I will. I’ll try.” It meant a lot to him. To have someone that cared enough to want that for him. He furrowed his brows, thinking of the gift and where it was. He would never forget it, especially if Arthur wanted him to have it. “I’m honored that you want to give something like that to me. Thank you.” He gave the other man’s hand a squeeze. It felt like he was growing colder or perhaps that was just his mind. Either way, Tod hated it.

“I wanted to tell you thank you. For the life you’ve lived and the good you’ve done. If there was ever a man I’d want people to remember me like… I believe that man would be you, sir.” He sniffled then, shaking his head. “It’s hard to let go. You’ve changed so many of our lives and I will never squander that. I’ll keep getting stronger, I— I promise.”

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur smiled softly at Tod, squeezing his hand again in return. He was sure that Tod was ready. He would grow into even more of an incredible person without Arthur there guiding him.

"Take care of yourself Tod. You are an incredible...truly incredible person. You will do wonderful things."

Goodbye to Al!

Across the sea A pale moon rises The ships have come to carry you home

Al McWiggin

His King was down --

Everything was a blur. Everyone surrounded Arthur, reaching out to him, as he said his last blessings. Al had never actually seen someone die. And he'd never had someone who was actually, well, important to him die.

Arthur had given him a purpose. Arthur had reignited his love for Swynlake and made him feel like a hero for the first time in his life. Like a real, true bonafide hero in all the books he read and all the movies he watched and all the games he played.

"My King," said Al, getting down on one knee and grasping Arthur's hand. "Don't go where I can't follow." He felt tears sting his eyes and he knew those words were meaningless; Arthur would pass on. Arthur would be at peace, at last. 

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur squeezed Al's hand gently. He could recall where those words were from. He was fairly certain. Al had shared a great deal of movie trivia and games and things, but Arthur did recall the epics that he had taken a lot of meaning from.

"Do not weep for me Al. I know that I will move on to a more peaceful place....perhaps it will be like it is in that story of yours. White shores...and a far green country as far as the...the eye can see." He smiled at Al. "I did recall your movies a little you know. I have to say, you've shown me so much... I wish to thank you for...for all that you've given me."

Al McWiggin

Okay -- he was definitely ugly crying now. Arthur remembered the movies. He remembered the movies!

"You've inspired me to be a better man," said Al, sniffling through his tears. "I won't stop you from going... but I want you to know that before you do."

Arthur Pendragon

"That...I'm honored Al." Arthur replied softly, a small smile still spread across his face. "You've made me want to know more about this time. It was a joy...it really was a joy to learn from you." Arthur forced a breath in and let it out again. "I...I have something for you...if you'll accept it."

Al McWiggin

Al certainly didn't have King Arthur telling him that learning from him was a joy on his Swynlake bingo card, but it was enough to make him blink away tears.

"Of course," said Al, bowing his head. "It would be an honor."

Arthur Pendragon

"I tried my hardest to learn about your...movies. I thought I might give everyone...for Christmas..." he took a moment to breathe and try to refocus on what he was saying to Al. He only had so much time. "Anyway...I...I hid a sword in my closet...it's not. It's one of the...the one that glows..."

Goodbye to Martin and Archimedes!

Don't say We have come now to the end White shores are calling You and I will meet again

Martin Ambrosius

Martin felt as though his heart had been struck by an icicle as he stared at Arthur. Medes abandoned his usual perch on the mundus' shoulder to fly to Arthur's side which prompted him to also approach slowly.

Martin could hear his father's voice in the back of his mind hiss that they had failed, that he had failed, and he almost couldn't find the words to say.

"I'm sorry," he murmured, some distance still kept between himself and the king.

"You deserved better, old friend," Archimedes added.

Arthur Pendragon

Arthur reached out to place a gentle hand on Archimedes' head. "It's alright. I did what I set out to do." And he would be able to rejoin his love...Guinevere would be waiting for him.

"Thank you for all your help my friends."

Martin Ambrosius

Medes leaned into Arthur's touch, tears springing to the familiar's eyes. "I only wish that there was more we could have done, more time. I'm not ready to mourn you again, not yet."

Martin ducked his head, feeling the weight of a legacy so old and also the grief of his own washing over him. "You were a great leader, you taught everyone here so much. You won't be forgotten. I'm... I'm sorry. I understand why my family has remembered your name with so much reverence."

Arthur Pendragon

"Don't be sorry. I know that this was what I was meant to do. This....I will return to those I lost long ago." He smiled weakly at Archimedes and Martin. "I would hope that...that the two of you would be able to prosper for years to come."

Goodbye to Simba!

And all will turn to silver glass A light on the water Grey ships pass Into the West

Arthur Pendragon

He had said nearly all that he could say, and he knew it was coming toward the end. There was just one more person he wanted to speak to before he passed on. And that was Simba. Simba who had become a good friend, and who shared memories of his brother.

Arthur turned his head toward Simba. "I'm sorry for the burden I'm placing on you...but would you stay with me in this last moment?

Simba Bonfamille-Lyons

Simba had sat with Arthur, not really paying attention to what he was saying to the others. He oscillated between praying to Allah (though, he had a feeling Allah had turned away from this place) and blinking into Kay's memories, the edges of the ballroom blurred. Sometimes they were on the battlefield, sometimes they were sitting on cool marble. He kept his hand over Arthur's wound the whole time, uselessly applying what pressure he could with his injured arm.

When Arthur finally turned towards him, Simba sniffled, blinking the tears out of his eyes. Some of them fell on Arthur's golden suit.

"Of course," Simba said, adjusting Arthur a bit, so that he was better enclosed in his arms. "I-I don't know what to do." His bottom lip trembled.

Arthur Pendragon

It was getting harder to stay conscious, and his breathing was becoming sharper and more painful. He knew soon he would lose the fight with this. But he wanted to...he needed to be able to speak with Simba just a bit longer. Sometimes he still saw himself and Kay growing up, his half brother helping him learn to fight...then he saw them now as they had figured out Zira's plans...worked together.

"Stay with me," he said softly. "I do not have any other family in this world. They're all long gone. You...you still carry my brother's memories. And I like to think...well I think of you as someone very dear to me." He sucked in a shaky breath. "There's not enough gifts in the world to give to one I'm so grateful for."

Simba Bonfamille-Lyons

tw death/mention of car accident Simba had never been with someone when they died.

Well, there had been his grandmother, but he'd been very little and his mama hadn't let him in the room.

There was his dad but--well, Simba didn't remember any of that, his brain addled by drugs. Plus, he'd been knocked unconscious at the moment of impact.

He hadn't realized how helpless he felt. His fingers pressed harder into Arthur's wound, but his blood was already growing cold around his fingers, the flow of it coming slower now. Simba wanted for there to be something he could do. He glanced up at the semi-circle of people around them, looking for anyone who could help. He wanted to shout at them, but they were just as helpless as he was.

Simba looked back down at Arthur, sniffled, and managed to smile at him. "You don't have to give me anything. I'd always wanted a brother, you know. Nothing could be better than that." Simba swallowed roughly. "It's alright. You're alright. A great man once told me that the great kings of the past go to the stars, so that they can watch over the rest of us. So, you're not going too far. We'll all be okay. Don't--don't worry about us." 

Arthur Pendragon

"I know...but I...I wish you could have something...a token. I often..." He gasped and reached for Simba's hand, his whole body trembling for a moment. He didn't have much longer, and though he knew it ought to scare him...he thought that this time it felt vastly more comforting than the last.

"I often wished I had something of those I lost..." Arthur mumbled softly, leaning his weight into Simba. He couldn't even try to lift himself up to look at him like he might want to. "I...I will always worry about you all...but...thank you. It's thanks to you that I...I could make it to this moment."

He gripped his hand a little tighter. "Protect them in my stead. Please. The town...no sheriff either...someone needs to.....you can find the right person for it." 

Simba Bonfamille-Lyons

Simba moved his hand, finally, from Arthur's wound, so that he could grasp his hand. He bit down on his tongue, so that he wouldn't sob. Arthur didn't deserve to be worried in his last moments. He should be peaceful. He had saved them all. Saved Swynlake. It didn't matter, in that moment, what Zira had revealed. What Arthur had done made up for all of that, a hundred fold.

His head bowed as he tried to pull Arthur a little closer, but with his injured hand, there wasn't much he could do.

All he could do was nod. "Of course," Simba said. "I promise. I will--I will do my best."

Arthur Pendragon

He let out a relieved breath, a smile spreading across his face. He was almost ready to go. He had to pass on some of his cares, but this way he could soon be at peace. He could feel himself starting to slip a little.

"I know you will. Whatever....whatever I have that I have yet to give anyone else...it's yours. Thank you for...for being my brother...for letting me have family again..." 

Simba Bonfamille-Lyons

Simba smiled when Arthur did. If Arthur could smile in these moments, when he was no doubt scared and in pain, then Simba could smile too.

"Thank you," Simba repeated. "For being my family too. For--for teaching me that following is just as important as leading. I would've--I would've followed you anywhere."

Arthur Pendragon

tw DEATH

"I know," he replied softly, his breaths coming out more and more shallow. He had prolonged it as long as he could. He'd been granted a new life and experienced a future he never thought he'd see. But this time he felt more sure of what would come next.

He had helped plant the seeds of the garden. The rest of the knights would make sure that everything grew and the town could continue to prosper. Arthur was ready. "Thank you..." Arthur said once more, his eyes drifting shut after a while, head lulling as his grip on Simba's hand relaxed.

One more harsh breath, and then it evened out, and Arthur Pendragon, the Once and Future King was dead, in the arms of one that had known him best.

[arthur-of-camelot]

simba-bonfamille-lyons​: 

Catching Up | Lion King 

He supposed that it was a comfort that Arthur said that this land would still stand, no matter what. Simba didn’t know who he was without Swynlake, without this land that felt so important to him. It was his home. It would always be his home. Even if he moved away. (Which, he knew was a possibility at some point. Berlioz did not want to stay in Swynlake.) 

No longer protected. Simba wasn’t sure what that meant. Protected from what? Or from who? The memories of Kay’s impression of Swynlake before the charter was struck was minimal. He hadn’t visited often, only for his sister’s wedding to Mohatu. He hadn’t been very involved besides that.

“I am assuming that has something to do with its magical properties?” Simba asked, keeping his voice low. He rubbed a hand over his face, scrubbing at his beard. He didn’t like being worried, or appearing worried, but there was something about Arthur that made him drop his defenses. Maybe it was just Kay. Whenever Simba looked at Arthur, there was an echo in the back of his mind that said: brother. 

“What are the chances that they succeed in at least breaking the charter? I mean–Zira has been ruthless. The cobblestone is gone, the spire, she took the flame right out of my own hands.” 

Well, it had been a wolf, who was clearly working for Zira, but that was besides the point. 

“It does, yes.” Arthur nodded. All the strange occurrences, the dreams, they all had taken on a life of their own in the years since the charter had been formed. It had not at all become what he had pictured originally. But he supposed that was how these things went. No one could ever know what the future might be.

Arthur pursed his lips. “There are good chances, but no matter what happens, it won’t destroy the world or the town. But it means that other towns, other people will take notice of whatever magic happens here.” Though people knew about Swynlake, it had been protected. The charter had kept people from asking too much, likely kept the british government from responding to many of the strange incidents that occurred here.

If the charter broke...that layer of protection would probably be gone. “I believe that the biggest danger lies in how the outside world would recognize this place. The magic might not stay centered here as well. There’s no telling what that may do.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

simba-bonfamille-lyons​: 

Catching Up | Lion King

Mitigating disaster didn’t feel like enough to Simba. In fact, it would feel like a failure. He wanted to do better than that. Not, necessarily, because he wanted to be a hero, but because he loved this town and the people in it. Mitigating disaster wasn’t good enough when the people he loved were inside of its borders. Berlioz. Ashlee. His mother. The Acherons and their children. Yallah, all of his students. 

It made him itchy, to think they may fail. That something might happen to this place if they weren’t successful. Simba didn’t know who he was without Swynlake. 

“What happens if they succeed?” Simba asked bluntly. “What will happen to all the people here? To the land? And the creatures? And the magic?” 

Simba’s family had always seen themselves as guardians. Okay, well, not always. He was aware that there were pockets of history where his family had been corrupt and cruel. But–throughout the centuries, they had stayed. They had defended it. The idea of being the person in charge of his family when that all…stopped broiled in his gut. 

Arthur’s eyebrows furrowed. The truth was that he could only guess at what might happen. He couldn’t be certain. The magic and the way this town had been rooted in it was so ensnared, it was hard to say just what would happen. He knew how things were before...but there was no way that undoing the charter could take everything away that had built on it. In this place.

“I don’t think that the land could be destroyed. The land was here long before there was any charter. And it will still be here no matter what.” He wasn’t certain he could comfort Simba on everything. He didn’t have a full answer. But he knew that he would do everything in his power to stop it.

Arthur sighed. “My best guess would be if they succeed, this town will no longer be protected. If before other places didn’t pay much attention to it, they might now.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

simba-bonfamille-lyons​: 

Catching Up | Lion King

Simba saw the smile. He saw it not because he was Simba, but through Kay’s eyes. Who had known Arthur best. How to poke him. How to tease him. How to support him. Sometimes, the lines blurred between them and Simba had no idea if it was his personality or Kay’s that came out of his mouth when he opened it. It was a strange feeling. Like deja vu. 

There was a loyalty there that Simba was glad for, considering he wasn’t used to taking orders from people. If Kay–who was just as proud and stubborn as Simba–could take orders from Arthur, well, it wasn’t so bad.

Though, some of Simba’s amusement drained out of him at Arthur’s final comment. He stretched his long legs out under the table, cozying down. 

“Eh, yeah. It has but–just like any natural disaster.” At least, that’s how Simba always viewed it. They were mostly protected from things like hurricanes and tornados and the like. Their natural disasters were just magical. And magic was natural too. Couldn’t blame it. Couldn’t stop it.

“Though…I mean–I dunno what’ll happen with…y’know…” He shrugged his shoulders again, glancing around. They were mostly alone on the patio, but he would take his lead from Arthur when discussing the Blackwells.

He supposed most of the magical events were like natural disasters. The only problem was unlike with natural disasters, people expected the police or other members of the community to be able to do something about the magical ones.

But it was part of Swynlake’s unique charm, something that had been embedded in it since the charter was created. Arthur couldn’t help but think back to those who had been with him at the time. Would they appreciate the way the town had grown? Or would they bemoan the consequences that had arisen?

Arthur hummed, considering Simba’s words carefully. “That’s true. Though I think we’re all doing our part to try to mitigate disaster as much as possible, if not outright stop it.” Though considering the advantage Zira had as a vampire, he wasn’t certain they could stop what was coming. 

“Regardless of what’s to come, I will do everything in my power to prevent history from destroying now. We will come out the other side of this.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

Check and Mate + [Penwell feat. Belle]

In which Zira successfully steals the first cobblestone and grows closer to her goal…[takes place: August 29]

@arthur-of-camelot, @labellerose-acheron

[tw – graphic threats of violence]

Keep reading

[arthur-of-camelot]

simba-bonfamille-lyons​: 

Catching Up | Lion King

Simba laughed. Big and loud. He couldn’t help. 

Look, Simba loved people. In all their impassioned weirdness. He loved them. Some of them were just so misguided that it was actually funny. You couldn’t help but just laugh at them. Seriously, what did they expect? And Simba felt sympathy for them, because how could he not? He understood. After all, a woman he was distantly related to and that he knew was probably trying to kill them all had been the evil president behind making people fight to the death. 

What else could you do but laugh?

Though, Arthur wasn’t really laughing, which meant Simba’s laughter trailed off fairly quickly. He took a sip of his coffee. Probably shouldn’t have it, considering how antsy he already was. 

“Sorry, I just–it is kind of funny?” His voice went up at the end in question. “That must be annoying. Silly Swynlakers. Gotta love ‘em, though, y’know?”

Arthur sighed, though his lips twitched up with a slight smile. It was a little funny, even if it was a little exasperating that he had to explain the law to people so many times in one day.

“It’s both annoying and comical I guess?” It could be a bit of both really. It could be funny in a sense that people were silly and hoped that they could do something about their nightmares...annoying when it was up to the sixteenth person asking.

“But there’s always some sort of reaction after one of these crazy dreams. At least everyone really is in one piece. I know this town has had much worse before.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

simba-bonfamille-lyons​: 

Catching Up | Lion King

Simba was antsy.

He was antsy because of his birthday and he was antsy because of another horrible Swynlake dream. (Not because it had particularly affected him, but because he had this feeling in his gut…like it was some sort of omen. A sign that he should be listening to.) It meant that he was making a lot of plans. With as many people as he could to avoid that feeling that was following him like a second shadow.

Hanging out with Arthur was a good decision because Arthur had this calm air about him. It honestly kind of reminded Simba of his dad. He just didn’t seem to be bothered by much. Even if Simba knew it was a lie (after all, most people didn’t know when Simba was bothered by something either), it was comforting in its way. Also, he was one of the only people that he could talk to about this.

He was sitting casual outside, Bowie’s leash looped around his wrist, though Bowie didn’t move, just wagged his tail as Arthur arrived.

“Oh, y’know. It’s been good! Busy. Just finished my shift at the hospital. And I’m having dinner with my mum tonight, so I still have to decide what to cook and stop by the market on the way home.” Wasn’t a lie. “What about you?” 

Arthur shrugged his shoulders, settling down in a seat across from him.

“It’s been a...somewhat frustrating day. Nothing I can’t handle but...” He shrugged his shoulders. It was still frustrating. People really could say all kinds of things. And try all kinds of things.

Arthur took a small sip of his coffee. “A meal with your mum sounds nice. It’s nice of you to cook something for her.” He could imagine having family to enjoy a meal with in general would be a comforting thing.

“You know all this dream business stirs things up.” Arthur shrugged his shoulders. “A few people tried to have me arrest people who killed someone in that dream. I had to explain to quite a few that that isn’t actually possible.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

Catching Up | Lion King

@simba-bonfamille-lyons

Arthur knew a headache was heading his way the moment he woke up after that town wide dream. Because, inevitably, there would be people coming to him and listing off their grievances as if there was something that he could do about them. Their dream grievances. 

Which was why he was so glad when his shift was ending and he could go meet with Simba for some coffee. If he had to explain to yet another person that no, he couldn’t arrest someone for dream murder...he was going to scream. Even Arthur had his limits. 

He made his way into Hatter’s spotting Simba and waving as he made his way over to get some coffee. “Extra caffeine today for me I think. How’s your day treated you?”

[arthur-of-camelot]

My Muses as Horse Breeds! 1/8 Arthur: Shire 

Shire, draft horse breed native to the middle section of England. The breed descended from the English “great horse,” which carried men in full battle armour that often weighed as much as 400 pounds.

[arthur-of-camelot]

Given to Arthur when she returned from her trip: 

Small knife engraved with the Celtic shield knot and other Welsh protective symbols

[arthur-of-camelot]

thesorceress-hera​: 

Clean up crew || Open

Despite it seeming like the event budget got smaller and smaller each year, there seemed to be a hell of a lot of cleanup after prom. Whilst most people were no doubt nursing hang overs, or even just trying to find their way back home, Hera had woken up bright and early… to get the volunteer group together to clean the town hall’s ballroom. It was far too much work for the town hall janitor to do, and besides, there had been a surprising number of willing volunteers writing their names down on the sign up sheet on the bullet board in the town hall foyer.

She directed some people to start taking down the decorations; others, to start clearing the tables. Jobs were doled out until everyone who had come looking for had been given one, all working away like busy little bees. Hera herself had been walking round with a large black bag, picking up the decorations and props and all sorts of things that had been been abandoned in corners when she felt a presence at her side; someone hovering close by, wanting her attention.

“If you’ve found something, there’s a lost and found box up by the stage there—” She began, straightening up and turning towards them, though when her eyes landed on what they were carrying with them, her eyebrows arched. “…What is that?”

.

Arthur had volunteered to help pick up after the festivities, figuring there would be a lot to get through there, and anyway there hadn’t been much action for the police to handle lately. A good thing, but Arthur did like to keep busy.

Which meant that he was finding all kinds of odd things, some he didn’t really want to think too hard about. This particular thing looked like it might have been a top to  some outfit, but its buttons were ruined, and Arthur didn’t think he wanted to consider how that had come to be. 

It was best not to dwell on that, he thought, as he brought it over to the woman who seemed to be running this whole thing. “I believe it might have been a shirt at one point, though it must have seen better days.” Arthur wrinkled his nose a bit. “Where would you like me to put this? Or would it be better to toss it?”

[arthur-of-camelot]

truitt-story​: 

You’re So Vane | Frog King 

Tiana nodded and caught her breath before standing up and handing it to Arthur. “It’s nice-looking, isn’t it?” Tiana said, looking curiously at the metal contraption. Up close, it was in surprisingly good condition for something so old, but she could see that the metal was not the same as the rest of the steeple. This was definitely hundreds of years old.

She untied herself and started down the stairs. “Hopefully they don’t miss it too much. Maybe we can get ‘em another one at Whosits and Whatsits or something…” Tiana chattered as she went carefully down the steep steps of the tower. She glanced over her shoulder. “You want me to hold onto it or do you have somewhere safe we’re keeping this stuff? ‘Cause I don’t mind, but I don’t want to interfere with the plan.”

Arthur hummed, studying the weather vane carefully. “I’m sure they’ll be fine. If nothing else we can put it back when things are all over. Hopefully.” He hoped that they would get through this soon enough. He didn’t like the feeling that this town had with someone like Zira around.

“I don’t have anywhere as of yet, but we can reach out to the other knights and discuss where we’d like to put it. And again, thank you for your help Tiana. I truly appreciate it.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

truitt-story​: 

You’re So Vane | Frog King

Tiana didn’t really feel sure about that, but Arthur seemed like he was, and she didn’t want to let him down. Arthur had done so much for this group, gathering them all together and helping them work through the knight memories and preparing them. Tiana still wasn’t sure what her contribution was, but at least this was something she could do for the team. The opportunity had presented itself. She just had to go ahead and take it.

“Thanks,” Tiana said, as resolutely as she could muster. Arthur believed in her. And so she was just going to have to believe in herself, too. She stuck the tools in the pockets of her leggings and glanced over her shoulder one last time before stepping out onto the roof.

This time, it was a little easier, if only because Tiana knew what to expect now. She climbed up the tower, slowly but surely, her muscles aching all the way up. It was a lot taller than she had thought.

Finally, she made it to the top. Shaking, Tiana perched on the small footholds she could find at the top of the tower and held on tight with one hand while she took out the screwdriver with her other. Slowly. Carefully. She didn’t want to drop the weather vane or, worse, fall off the tower entirely. But she couldn’t think about that. Tiana was used to making herself focus in stressful situations– years of waiting tables taught you that– and she just had to tap into that mode.

The weather vane freed, Tiana tucked it under one arm and slowly began her descent– even more difficult now with one arm occupied, but she knew Arthur was holding onto the rope. That was reassuring. She knew he wouldn’t let her fall.

“Got it!” Tiana called as she finally reached the roof again. Once inside the tower, Tiana doubled over to catch her breath. “Alright. I’m okay. Just give me a second.”

Arthur kept a good grip on Tiana, watching carefully as she made her way up and worked on unscrewing the weather vane. He watched with baited breath, though he was certain...absolutely certain that Tiana could get it down. 

Perhaps he should have been more nervous, but there was this faith that he had in all of his knights, old and new, and he felt that it made them more confident if he was confident in them too. All someone needed sometimes was having a person believe in them.

And Arthur believed all his knights were capable of great deeds.

“Well done!” She made her way back over, and Arthur kept a tight grip on the rope, watching as Tiana took a moment to catch her breath. “You did amazing. Take your time there. I’ve still got you.” He smiled warmly at her. “Thank you.”

[arthur-of-camelot]

truitt-story​: 

You’re So Vane | Frog King

“Maybe a drill, and some pliers just in case it’s really stuck in there?” Tiana said, glancing at the steeple and the weather vane.

Tiana leaned against the wall of the tower, catching her breath. She wasn’t totally out of shape, with her weekly spin classes with Vixey, but climbing was a whole different kind of athletic. And some people in the Knights were like superhumans (see: Merida), which made Tiana feel a little bit like she was back in secondary school phys ed. 

But the Knights were made up of all sorts. Some were Magicks like Eilonwy or Aurora, some had more academic skills like Belle or Dipper, and some… well, maybe Tiana was still looking for her niche. 

The best she could do right now was to get this done for Arthur.

She waited for him to return. “Alright, let’s give this another try.”

Arthur brought all the supplies that Tiana asked for, making his way back up the long stairs as quickly as he could. At least this way he could leave Tiana with less things to work on and worry about. All that was left was trying to get that part at the top.

They could do it now. He was sure of it. All they needed were steady hands.

“Okay. I have you. Don’t worry about your support, I’ll have you no matter what. Go slowly, and we’ll soon get this where we need it.” He was careful to double check the rope he had and tying it in a way that didn’t hurt her, but also was tight enough that it would hold her. 

“You’ve got this Tiana.”