Fantasy I Was Fine Until You

[Officer Newt]

Caroline winced a bit at Gaheris's words. She had hoped he'd be more sympathetic if he knew about her feelings. Then he was dismissing them. Causing Caroline to frown. But she slowly nodded before trailing after her husband. Relieved when they stepped out of the tent into the cold air. Letting out a deep breath. Her gaze flickered towards Arthur and she sheepishly nodded at him. It seemed keeping a affair hidden was turning out harder then she thought. But she just needed to keep her mouth shut.

Caroline then moved towards Arthur. Wrapping her arms around him in a hug as she murmured. "Arthur? Thank you... " They might not care for each other romantically. But Caroline very much saw him as a friend. They were a team. Slowly she pulled away. They probable should find Lance and tell him what had happened. She could only imagine how much he was fretting. Sadly, They weren't going to get a chance to talk to him alone yet. Because as Caroline searched for him. She saw someone just as they were heading over to talk to Lance.

Ruth, The girl probable should be in bed. Her leg was still injured and she was heavily limping as she walked. But sitting still had never been one of her favorite traits. She hated being cooped up. So as soon as she had gotten a chance to sneak off. She had sought out Lance. Approaching from behind. Though she was hardly being stealthy with the way the snow crunched under her feet. Still, She let out a soft. "Boo! " As she reached him. Grin on her face. But she wasn't out without reason. In her hands was a small box containing- Well. Breakfast. "The hunters wife cooked us some breakfast. Fair warning. The bread she made is so hard you could probable use it as a axe. " That caused Ruth to snicker a bit. She didn't think the woman was very good at cooking. But it was a nice thought and Ruth was already fond of the woman. She then asked Lance. "Think I can pull you away long enough to join me for a meal? "

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Arthur wasn’t interested in kisses and romance from Caroline, he found far more pleasure in the hug she graced him with and he squeezed her back gently. “ You deserve to be happy“ he reminded her. Making sure she stayed safe was the least he could do. Lance would have to wait a bit longer for the news but maybe they could signal to him, maybe with a thumbs up or something just so he didn’t have a breakdown or something whilst talking to Ruth. And Caroline probably wouldn’t mind tearing Lance away from Ruth but she seemed to have learnt enough over the past few days that Lance wouldn’t stand for it.

Lance was...stressed. He didn’t think them talking to Gaheris was going to end well, even if they worked out a deal, Gaheris was a nightmare enough as it was but now he had blackmail over him! The rest of the ride back was going to be pure agony. Because of his current feelings, he was somewhat jittery and whilst he noticed her footsteps, he didn’t quite fully prepare himself for her. He couldn’t muster up an easy smile to send back at her, his was more forced and tense than he would’ve liked. At least Ruth seemed relaxed though, even with her injuries. He‘d been worried she might have trouble sleeping or that it would affect her mood but she seems quite chipper and hopefully was on the way to recovery.

“You should maybe be a bit more grateful for the effort” he pointed out to. Hard bread was not the worst atrocity in the world but he got that she was being playful. He glanced around a little frantically as she asked him to join her for breakfast but Percival wasn’t around for him to foist her off into so he could talk to Caroline and Arthur. He should just relax anyway, he’d know if Gaheris spilled his secret because he’d be screaming it at the top of his lungs, or coming straight to Lance to rub it in his face. So he forced out another grin and nodded. “Sure, before things start getting busy” and once all the knight were up. “How are you feeling?” He asked. Her leg probably didn’t feel much better, probably bruised and aching but it didn’t seem to be getting her down at the moment.

 

[Officer Newt]

Caroline frowned for a moment. Lance and Ruth seemed to be already heading off together and well... Caroline didn't think they'd be easily able to separate the two. So she sent a glance towards Arthur. Murmuring. "I don't think we're going to be able to tell Lance the news for a while. " They'd have to wait until they could pull him aside. Caroline then nudged Arthur. Suggesting. "Lets head back to the inn for now. That way he can easily find us. Also I think if we aren't then when my lady wakes up she'll have a heart attack from worry. " Hopefully she wouldn't find a reason to scold Arthur while they were there.


Ruth was quick to grin at Lance. Snickering. "Fine, Then you can eat the bread. " Hopefully he didn't break his teeth on it! She then paused. Tilting her head to the side. Lance seemed a bit... Off. Though she soon pushed the thought aside. He constantly seemed stressed these days. Besides he was soon questioning her. Ruth then decided to lead the way to a nice spot to sit as she talked. "Well, My leg hurts like hell. But I'll live. Besides, I've had worse before. " Yeah that probable wasn't comforting. Ruth then paused as they reached the porch of the hunter. Flopping down to sit on the edge of it. Her gaze flickering down for a moment in thought.

Ruth then looked up at Lance. Biting her lip before she murmured. "That... I actually sort of wanted to talk to you about that. " Averting her eyes. How best to ask this? Ruth then finally said. "I wanted to ask you if you could teach me how to defend myself. " That was risky. If any of her previous owners had heard her say that she would have certainly gotten beaten. But she trusted Lance. Ruth then murmured. "I just... I know I shouldn't. But I hate being hurt. I hate watching my friends be hurt. I don't want to be scared anymore and if something happens... I don't want to just sit there and let it happen. " Ruth had been in scraps before. Fighting had sadly been just a normal part of her life. But she hadn't been trained. She might not be allowed to pick up a sword. But Lance could probable still teach her a few things. Ruth then quickly decided to put in. "I don't mean now. But when things aren't as hectic. I fear if I put anything more on your plate right now you'll get even more grey hairs. "

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Arthur nodded in agreement. It wouldn’t be wise to pull away Lance now; Ruth was naturally curious and would no doubt ask him what it was about or eavesdrop and that meant maybe more lies and just a whole ’nother level of complications. Instead, Arthur got the joy of going back into the warmth, and seeing Caroline’s lady. You know, the one who hated him, but yay for the warmth. He was not really looking forward to getting back in the road and forging back into the snow with no real buildings to protect them. “I think she’d more likely blame me for your disappearance” he murmured to Caroline. She just seemed to think that Arthur was a bad seed.

Just because Lance suggested she didn’t complain didn’t mean he wanted to eat the crusty, stone-like bread. He followed her and watched her plop down. He didn’t want to think about what worse things had been done to her but such was the life of a slave, especially one as rebellious as Ruth. He frowned gently as he continued talking, divulging other conversation with him. He crossed his arms over his chest as he listened. He’d already given her his knife but training would really help a lot, even if it was just how to escape a grasp or how to properly slash at someone without opening yourself up too much.

He scowled gently, but it was playful. “Don’t talk so rudely about my glorious hair” he defended, lifting a hand to it. He took pride in his appearance, even if that was a bit...vain and such a bit sinful, too much pride wasn’t good, but he knew he didn’t look the best right now. “I think it’s a good idea” he agreed, especially with Gaheris now more likely to push him. If she could defend herself a little bit better then Gaheris would have a harder time and that would offset the blackmail he had on Lance a little. Of course Gaheris had his own training so it wasn’t as simple to fend off someone with knowledge like that as it was to defend yourself against a random aggressor but it certainly gave Ruth a better chance. “Once all this is sorted out, we’ll start working on it” he promised. He’d prefer her to learn sooner rather than later but obviously he was a bit preoccupied with keeping them from getting killed right now. “Was that all?” he asked. Maybe she had another suggestion or something she wanted to talk about now that they were alone.

 

[Officer Newt]

Caroline grinned at her husband. Seemed both Caroline and Arthur had protective maternal figures in there life. Malia too annoy Caroline. And Carolines lady to annoy Arthur. Briefly Caroline wondered if her own mother would have behaved the same. But she didn't let the thought say. "Well, If need be I'll fend her off while you make your escape. " Caroline didn't want the woman yelling Arthur's ear off!


Ruth tilted her head to the side. "Oh don't worry. You look perfectly fine for your age old man. " She teased. But it was only for fun. He wasn't Ruth's type. But she would be willing to bet he had plenty of admirers. Ruth then found herself blinking in surprise. She had truly expect Lance to refuse her. But he even thought it was a good idea. A big grin grew on her face before she flung herself forward to wrap him up in a hug. "Thank you Lance... " Hey, Atleast this would be good practice for him for when he eventually got his own squire.

She soon pulled away though. Still smiling happily. Before saying. "No... Thats all- I mean. Well. Not really. " She ended up pausing. Frowning for a moment before she then finally continuing. "I also wanted to see if... Well, You wanted to talk. I know you're being a bit run ragged. " She was worried. The events of yesterday probable did little to ease his concerns. Ruth couldn't help but be a bit ashamed. She should have been able to stop Arthur and Kay. But it was hard for a slave to order a prince what to do.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

(Sorry, I had a busy week.)

Arthur didn’t think that her eldest lady would really let Caroline get in the way of giving Arthur a jolly good scolding. But the offer was nice and he smiled gently at her. “That’s very kind of you” he mused. Speaking of maternal figures, he did miss his mother. It wasn’t often that he spent such time away from her or such distance and frankly he was worried about her. He wanted her pregnancy to go okay and also to not get caught up in whatever else Morgan might be planning. He also figured that Alexander would be too busy with Morgan and other kingdom affairs to look after Malia although he wasn’t sure if that was good or bad really. Malia seemed to chafe under too much attention from her husband. Anyway, Arthur felt a bit...lost being so far away from his family. He was unused to it, like he’d been set adrift in an endless sea.

Lance gave Ruth a playful glare as she called him old again. He wasn’t even a decade older than her! athe hug was sudden but a Lance squeezed her back. There was something so tension relieving about hugging someone. Gareth hadn’t liked it too much when Lance found him with those girls and had hugged him but Ruth wasn’t trying to impress anyone. And Lance also missed hugging his son. He’d be home soon though, hopefully. His face turned to a frown as she asked him how he was doing. He had been a bit....pulled in lots of directions. He had Ruth and Gaheris to keep an eye on, the stress of Morgan and Arthur, Vere to watch, Merlin to take into account, his affair with Caroline and now the news that Gaheris knew. And that was before he even got to the person trying to kill them. It was a very stressful time.

”I’ll be fine” he insisted. “We just need to find whoever’s terrorising us and deal with them. As soon as that’s done things will be okay” they had to be. “We’ll go home, I won’t have to deal with Vere or making sure the prince and princess don't get killed and I’ll get to see my son” he sighed. But he’d still worry about Caroline and Arthur, he’d still have to deal with Gaheris knowing and pushing his buttons and Ruth being in danger from him. Merlin would also still be about so it’s not like things would be normal. “It’s cute you're worried about me though” he teased. Things would be okay, he was sure of it. God was just testing him, seeing his limit. Soon he’d be back at home with his son and his father and he’d take a few days off perhaps. See how Caleb was doing, maybe see about getting Galahad baptised.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

bump. how you doing?

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Just bumping again, hope you’re okay. If youre feeling a bit low on muse then I’m happy to time skip a bit.

 

[Officer Newt]

Hey! took me a minute to find the thread.
Do you mind if we start off with a small timeskip so I can get back in the swing of things.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

I’m more than happy to timeskip. We could timeskip forward to Loth being revealed as the danger in the town and play out his and Arthur’s confrontation if you wanted or if you had something else in mind I’m more than happy to role with it.

 

[Officer Newt]

Ooh, The Loth confrontation will be fun! Can you start us off?

 

[British. Intelligence.]

(do you think they should already know about Loth? Or he’s just about to reveal himself by burning the town down or whatever)

Stress for Lance had been at an all time high for the last few days. The anticipation of the killer striking again had everyone on alert and tensions running high, the men were chafing under the strict rules and constant vigilance. Somehow, he’d managed to keep Ruth, Arthur, Caroline and Vere out of any major trouble recently but the worry was always there. Most annoyingly had been the renewed pushing from Gaheris. Ever since finding out about the affair he’d been bolder. He hadn’t done anything too brash but he was revisiting just a bit more, making snider comments, just seeing how far her could push Lance whilst being careful to not break his agreement with Caroline and Arthur. Lance had known it was going to be a nightmare but it was driving him nuts and he wished he could strangle the boy sometimes. Luckily, Gaheris hadn’t pushed over the boundaries with Ruth, yet. He probably knew that was dangerous for him. After all, if he pushed Lance too much, a fight might occur and a dead Gaheris couldn’t tell any tales. Besides, Gaheris already thought Lance had killed one of his brothers.

In order for the peace to be maintained, Arthur had written Gaheris a letter, addressed to Alexander, recommending his promotion to a knight upon the basis of his service on this trip and protection of the princess. He’d signed it and sealed it for him so that it was the real deal and Gaheris kept it on his person at all times. He hadn’t told his father about it though. Gaheris didn’t think Loth would react well for some reason, didn’t want it taken from him just in case. Maybe didn’t want his father to think that he didn’t deserve to be a knight. And speaking of Loth, Gaheris had felt his father’s violence grow with every meeting they had. The air of expectation that filled the room, as if he was planning something big and something dangerous. All his men also seemed to be anticipating something too.

Arthur had been doing his best to stay out of trouble, to try and lower the stress that Lance was feeling. He’d also done his best to keep Caroline from getting too drunk since that didn’t seem to ever end well, and to maybe not agree so readily to the adventurous plans of Vere and to not leap into violence with Kay. It hadn’t been easy, he felt a bit in limbo, just waiting for something to happen with not all that much to do in order to keep his friend sane. He had enjoyed spending time with Caroline though, not so much her eldest lady but the feeling was mutual there.

 

[Officer Newt]

(Maybe they have some guesses it might be Loth? But aren't certain yet? )

Things had been quiet lately. Which perhaps only added to the tension in the air. The anxiety of waiting for something to happen. hopeful whatever happened next would put a end to this killer. Though more realistically another death was more likely. Loth had only been biding his time. Planning his next strike carefully. But he was not a patient man. And as soon as he had sensed a opening. He leapt for it. A chance to flush out and separate Arthur. Thus. Loth had set some simple fires around town. Enough to stir chaos with the knights.

Next, All he needed was a small note. Tied to a arrow. A simple message. 'meet me in the forest alone' Short and sweet. The prince seemed brave- Or well, Foolish enough that he'd likely listen. Probable hoping to prove himself or something silly like that. Shooting the arrow threw the window of the princes room. He spared a brief moment, Starting one last blaze at the bottom of the inn. Hopeful that everything would be smoldering soon enough before turning and making his getaway.

Caroline sadly wasn't there to see the arrow. No, She had been spending most nights in the same room as her ladies. Finding it more comforting then anywhere else. It had a way of making her feel at home. The cold air, The familiar voices. But it was also wrong and empty. One of the group was missing and all were still grieving. Heavy thoughts often kept Caroline awake these nights. Thankful that her bed was separate for she was sure she tossed and turned plenty in the night. It was this reason she smelled smoke. At first she brushed it off and someone starting a campfire or something outside. But the scent only seemed to become heavier and a feeling of dread found its way into Carolines stomach. Sitting up. It was then she became more aware of the shouting outside. Blinking. She quickly got up. Moving to her eldest lady as to shake her and stir her awake. "Hey... Hey, Something's going on."

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Gaheris had not know his father’s full plan but when the fires started and the smoke started billowing, he figured that Loth had made his move. He wasn’t sure if the other men had known but now wasn’t the time to ask as he gathered his belongings and stuck close to the men of his father’s allegiance. If this was to be a stand then he did not want to be caught on the side against his father. He would not burn with the likes of Lance.

Arthur was more than surprised to have an arrow thunk into the wall and he froze at first, expecting more but when none came, he went to the projectile and spotted the note bound to it, pulling it off and reading the invitation. He instantly knew it was a bad idea but he also knew that he wouldn’t refuse the taunt. This killer wanted to face him? Then so be it. Arthur was not a coward like this killer, hiding in the shadows and striking at innocent lives. No. He would end this, one way or another. Because of the arrow, Arthur noticed that the atmosphere seemed different and he was soon sticking his head out of the window and seeing the fire. He had a brief memory of the palace in flames, him and Kay trapped in a room with the fire closing in. Things would not be the same this time. He had to make sure everyone was out before he went to the forest. So he was going to the ladies’ room, forging the usual etiquette of knocking first. “We need to go now” Arthur commanded. ”get to Lance and the others“ those downstairs had probably already made their way out or were doing so now. They should get moving themselves before any structural damage occurred. He’d see Caroline to safety and then he’d go. Hopefully in the panic she wouldn’t notice until it was all over and hopefully he’d also be victorious, his hand unconsciously gripping his sword hilt at that thought.

Lance heard the shouting before he saw the fires and he was quick to run to the voices, the smoke from the fires already starting to make the air thick, they needed to evacuate the town, move everyone and themselves away from the fires and to safer ground. “Get the townspeople to safety” Lance shouted to a group of his men. They’d come here for refuge and all they’d brought was trouble. But it wasn’t just the townsfolk, they needed to look out for themselves, and for the royals, this was clearly an attempt to cause chaos and get them even more on the defensive. If the killer was lucky it might even separate them. They couldn’t have that so he set his sights on the inn, he had to get over there and protect Caroline and Arthur. They were the priority. As much as he wanted to keep Ruth by his side and also go after this maniac himself, he needed to look after the royals, that’s what this was all about. It was not as easy to get over there as he would’ve liked though, the fires were growing rapidly, latching onto houses eager to stay away from the snow and people were running about, the panic was palpable, he could taste it.

 

[Officer Newt]

Caroline jumped a bit as she heard the sound of Arthur's voice. But her surprise was soon changed into one of relief. Luckily, Caroline's ladies were quick to stir and get into action. Soon roles had switched and Caroline was no longer the one trying to coax them awake. Instead the eldest lady was practically dragging Caroline out the door where she caught proper sight of her husband. "Arthur, Whats h- " She didn't get to finish. The eldest lady urging her towards the stares. Passing Merlin's room. Caroline paused for a brief moment to glance into the room. The door though was already wide open and Merlin no where to be seen. Had she already fled? Caroline didn't think much of it though. For panic flushed her as they reached the bottom of the steps.

She could see the flames. Further back in the inn. But the smoke was everywhere and Caroline couldn't help but cough the more she breathed. Her lady wasn't going to let her stand around and gawk though. Hauling the girl outside. Dread instantly filled Caroline as soon as she looked around. For the inn wasn't the only place alight. Multiple buildings were ablaze. Spread far enough apart to make things obvious. This wasn't a accident. Oh god. If this was attack what else could have been done? Where was Lance? quickly Caroline was scanning the area searching for him.

Seeing now, Some of the houses looked like they were completely engulfed. A loud crash made Caroline jump. Swinging her head around in time to see the room of a building seem to cave in. Alarm flashed across Caroline's face. That... That was the house Lance and that little slave had been staying at. Right? The home was small and wooden. Something easily eaten by flames. And well, with a high ranking knight staying there, It was a good target. What if he hadn't been able to get out? What if... Caroline was already taking a step towards the building, Her mind already running threw all the worst possible outcomes. When she spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Lance! A smile spread across her face and Caroline wasted no time sprinting towards him. Earning a small shout from her lady when she escaped the old womans grasp.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Arthur was bringing up the rear as they escaped the inn. If Merlin wasn’t in her room then Arthur could only hope that she’d already escaped, maybe she’s sensed this coming, she did seem to know an awful lot. Arthur knew he’d complained about the cold a bit but this hadn’t been what he meant when he’d wanted things to be warmer. The searing heat and the thick air was not something to bask in. Luckily the door wasn’t blocked snd they managed to escape, the adrenaline in Arthur preventing him from feeling the cold of the snow.

Whilst he had been in his best behaviour for Lance the past few days, now was a time to be a little reckless. They couldn’t have this killer tailing them when they were out in the open, it’d be even more dangerous. So, when Caroline tore off to Lance, distracting both her ladies and Lance himself, he slipped away. He needed to get to the forest so once he was a little bit away he started running, the sooner this was dealt with, the better. But where In the forest? Arthur wasn’t entirely sure and he knew he might be jumped out at. He started making his way towards where the bear trap had been, he at least knew the killer had been there before. “If you’d wanted to fight me, you could’ve sent me a message ages ago, no else needed to die” Arthur announced to the forest, sensing his surroundings waiting to see someone.

A wave of relief hit Lance as he saw the group escape the inn. They were okay for now! And Caroline didn’t seemed injured if her sprinting to him was anything to go by. He went to grab her arms as she got close, scanning her for any injuries. “Are you okay?” he asked. “Are you hurt?“ she didn’t look hurt but he couldn’t be sure. “We need to leave the town, get to safer ground” he told her, away from things that burnt. “You and Arthur need to get out of here” They needed a company of knights to protect them and Lance glanced over to the group and it wasn’t so much a group anymore. “where’s Arthur?” Lance asked Caroline, his voice cold as dread filled him. He could’ve sworn he’d seen Arthur leave with them. He’d been right there!

(For some reason I keep picturing Arthur beheading Loth cos that’s gonna be a bit traumatic for him)

 

[Officer Newt]

(Oh, That will be dark! Go for it! I imagine he'll be messed up over that for a good while. )

Had Lance not been quick to grab Caroline's arms. Caroline perhaps would have tackled him in a hug. He was quick to fret over her. she wasn't given much chance to answer a question before the next was rolling off his tongue. Luckily she was uninjured and looking Lance over. He seemed alright as well. Then he was mentioning Arthur. "He's right over t-" She started. Turning to gesture behind herself. Though she soon froze up as she saw the empty space. Looking back to Lance. "He... He was right behind us a moment ago. " He couldn't still be inside? Could he? Maybe he had run off to try and help the other knights evacuate?

---

Loth had stalked patiently outside of town. Observing the inn from where he hid in the woods. And he was certainly relieved when he saw the silly prince make his way towards the wilderness. The boy hadn't even bothered to bring backup. Perhaps a fatal mistake. Still, Distance was good. Loth thus trailed slowly for a time. Hopefully the knights would be distracted for a while. Still, He could not spare too much time leading the prince away. So when he was atleast comfortable that they were far enough that no one would hear any screams. Then Loth made his presence known.

"Mmm... Perhaps. But that would hardly hurt you. " Well it would, Because Arthur would be dead. But he wouldn't suffer. Carefully Loth picked his way forward. But he didn't engage right away. Scanning along. The forest had enough of a clearing that he deemed it well enough for there duel. Though he kept near the tree outline. Leaning against a tree. Hand resting on the hilt of his sword. Though he didn't bother to draw it yet. "...Your excited? Aren't you? "

His gaze flickering over the man before he assessed. "To prove yourself? To get your sword bloody? Atleast you'll be fighting to kill now." Before Arthur might have held back. Loth doubt that would be the case now. Grunting as he straightened himself up. He pulled his blade free. Beginning to stride towards the clearing. Might as well have a proper duel for this battle. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited. " He mused. Turning to properly face Arthur now.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Lance was calmed by her seeming to be fine but his blood pressure was soon back to suffering as Caroline only confirmed what he’d dreaded. “That’s what I’d thought too” he muttered. Arthur had definitely exited that building and that meant that either Arthur had gone back inside which wasn’t a smart decision, or that he’d gone off somewhere which was infinitely stupider so Lance had his money on the latter. He squeezed Caroline’s arm gently, a gesture of his relief before he was stalking off to her lady. “Where did Arthur go?” He asked, shouting before he fully reached her. Maybe she’d spotted the prince slipping off in the chaos. God, he hoped so. Now was not the time for Lance to be playing hide and seek with Arthur.

The prince stilled as Loth revealed himself, hands gripping his drawn sword a little tighter. “Loth” he greeted, because of course it was Loth. He’d known in the forest before that they hadn’t been done, Loth was vengeful and he was determined and he was violent, it all added up and it infuriated Arthur. Innocents had died all because of some perceived slight against him? Loth didn’t love his wife and Arthur hadn’t been a willing participant. This was all so pointless. Death for the pride of one man.

Arthur frowned as Loth suggested he was excited. He....he wasn’t looking for a fight. Except, this had been building up for a while and Arthur certainly had some bottled up emotions he could get out and he hadn’t used his sword properly for a little while. And he did want to prove himself, he had before, to show his father that he could do something, fight battles and stand up against powerful men rather than be kept behind fighting lines and protected in the palace. He wasn’t excited, he was determined. He watched a Loth warily as the man spoke and moved. Kill. Arthur wasn’t a killer. He knew knights killed but he’d never been in war or a quest. He was sheltered and didn’t spill a whole lot of blood but he’d do what he must to protect those left standing.

Arthur held his sword defensively. He’d fought Loth before but they’d been interrupted by another knight. Arthur couldn’t match his sheer strength and Loth knew the majority of his training seeing as he’d been the one to train Alexander. Maybe there were a few moves he might’ve picked up from Lance or someone, a foreign tactic bay might throw him and maybe Arthur had speed or agility on his side but the odds didn’t look great. Loth had picked the ground, Loth hadn’t had emotional turmoil and troubled nights. Loth instead had experience and a thirst for blood. “We don’t need to do this Loth” Arthur insisted. “Morgan drugged me” he told the man, maybe if he knew he wouldn’t blame Arthur except he’d come too far now anyway, Loth was hardly going to turn around and walk away. “Killing me gives her power, she’s going to use this child for the throne” that’s what Alexander had been insisting. Didn’t Loth want to stop that?

 

[Officer Newt]

Loth knew it wouldn't be long before the two were found. He doubt Arthur had hid his tracks in the snow that well. But Loth wasn't eager to rush this. So he took his time and softly sighed. "I'm not stupid, boy. I know Morgan had to have drugged you or something. And I know If Morgan gets half a chance. She'll tear the throne apart. " She wouldn't stop until her child was on the throne. The king was probable already dealing with her. But Loth had a feeling plenty more blood would be spilled over that matter. Loth then shook his head before saying. "I don't give a sh*t about the throne or the crown. " Perhaps that painted him in a strange light. He had been the best friend of Arthur's grandfather after all.

Loth took a few steps closer. Musing. "At this point? I'll be glad to see it burn. " Then, He was moving with little warning. Though Arthur was probable ready for that. Lifting the blade high and aiming to swing it down onto the others head. If there was one advantage Arthur had. It was that Loth was not as fast as he had been in his youth. But he had held onto his strength. Relying on a large greatsword that... Well, If he got one good hit in. It could spell disaster for the prince.

Loth though was talking as he moved. Rambling angrily. "Your voice sounds just like him, You know that? I hated that voice. It could make me do whatever it wanted with just a few sweet words. I wish I had cut that thing out of his mouth. " Seems he was taking this time to rant. Rushing forward to swing the blade towards Arthur's side. Someone was going to die in this fight. At this point, Loth didn't care who. But he still planned to make sure Arthur was left plenty bloody no matter the outcome.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Well, it seemed everyone but Arthur had known that Morgan was tricking him. Her family knew her nature well, Arthur should’ve listened to them. But, he did still blame Loth for what had happened to her. Surely not all of it had been a lie. She’d been married to him young, she couldn’t have been this twisted all her life and she had seemed scared of Loth. He believed some of the stories had been true, Loth had broken and corrupted her and now they were as bad as each other. Arthur frowned again as Loth claimed he didn’t care about the throne. He was a knight, a war hero! He’d been at his grandfather’s side in his victories, surely he would care about the throne? Or at least had at some point. Maybe he didn’t like Alexander but Arthur still found that strange. He’d trained the man a bit, seen him grow up and fought together, wouldn’t there be at least a little comradery? Except Arthur was assuming that Loth was a normal person with normal feelings.

Arthur was already taking a step back as Loth moved forward but his legs were shorter than the mountain that was Loth so the sword was well within striking distance. A swing like that could kill Arthur but luckily for him, something like that had momentum which was difficult to change so he managed to side step it as Loth started chatting again. He didn’t really understand what Loth was talking about, who. Alexander? His grandfather? Someone else? Arthur was moving again to try and avoid the blade, dodging most of the swing but gaining a slice in his side. Still, better than being cut in half. “I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Arthur replied as he went to make his own move, feinting low before going to strike Loth’s shoulder. He was hoping that any damage there might slow the man down or falter his grip on the sword but he didn’t have much faith in it.

Loth was clearly grouchy about something. Maybe he wanted to get it all out to someone before one of them died because when Loth was dead, it’d be trapped in him and if Arthur died, it’s not like he’d be telling anyone. Arthur moved again, going for a lunge and a stab rather than more of a slice. There was a lot of Loth to hit, and maybe a more severe wound would slow him down although he rather seemed like a charging bull.

 

[Officer Newt]

Loth was a bit to slow to avoid Arthur's blade as it sliced threw his shoulder. Though the action only seemed to add in angering Loth. Not slowing him down. For he was able to just move out of the way before Arthur could send his sword threw him. Snarling. "Of course you don't. You didn't know him? Did you? " He probed. Deciding to take a few steps back and put some distance between the two briefly. Eyes scanning Arthur up and down. Looking for a weak point it seemed. But then he told Arthur. "You have his stance. Hold your sword the same as him. Good. Your grandfather was talented. " Arthur's Grandfather had conquered much. Most men would probable be thrilled to have any of the mans ability.

Loth then was charging again. This time aiming to try and clash swords with Arthur. He had no doubt if he kept at the young prince. He could overpower him. Loth then growled. "Sadly for you. I was always a better swordsman then him. " Which was.. Well reasonable. He was known as one of the best knights in the kingdom. Still, He could be beat by numbers and Loth was becoming more and more aware of the time. He needed to finish this fast. So, He decided to buckle down and just keep swinging. Hoping to simply overwhelm Arthur.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Arthur had heard the stories of his grandfather, had seen the paintings but he hadn’t known him. It felt odd to be complimented about him, even stranger that Arthur felt pleased by it. The idea that he held a legacy in his bones and that he was living up to it was a little thrilling. There wasn’t room much time to be smug though because Loth was bringing his sword crashing down and Arthur could not move out of the way in time so he brought his sword up to block, his bones jarring at the pure force behind the blow and his muscles straining. He was not as strong as Loth, he would not be able to block many of those.

Arthur was also aware of the time this was taking. Someone would be trying to find him, someone would get involved. This was his fight. Loth needed to be stop but it was Arthur’s duty to be the one to do it. “It’s not him your fighting” Arthur got out as he swung his sword towards Loth’s chest, continuing the motion to sweep low and using the momentum of his sword to sweep high again in a powerful blow. Arthur was not his grandfather, he had the skills taught to him by Akexander, from Loth and his grandfather, and from his fellow knights, from his style, from a few fights with his cousins and training with Lance. Arthur didn’t go to other kingdoms on diplomatic trips, he didn’t go out shopping every day, instead he stayed at the palace, training. And this might be one of his first real shots at a proper fight but he’d been born for things like these, trained since he was young and it was in his blood. Arthur was entering his prime, Loth hadn’t been in his for some time now.

 

[Officer Newt]

Loth was a ferocious fighter. Only having been even more dangerous in his youth. Arthur was lucky he was fighting a old Loth and not a young one. Still, Loth was grinning. He could practically feel Arthur straining as he blocked. Something that gave the old man more confidence. But it just took one mistake to turn the tides of a fight. For Loth? It was not being quick enough to block the next attack thrown his way. To late did he raise his sword to shield himself. By then he could feel blood beginning to seep threw his shirt. He didn't feel the pain. Didn't dare to look down to assess the wound. But he could see the blood on Arthur's sword.

The wound was deep and bleeding heavily across his chest. Perhaps now, Another person might have tried to retreat to lick there wounds. But Loth was grinning. Soon announcing. "Good hit, I like you. " Loth had been chasing a challenge for a long time. Arthur was giving him one. Loth then was moving again. first swinging his blade downwards. Before further stepping forward. This time the old man though was attempting to push past Arthur's defenses. Grab the prince by the collar of the shirt and hopefully toss him down. If he could get a grip on the boy. He figured he'd be able to finish it.

 

[British. Intelligence.]

Arthur hadn’t expected to get a hit off like he had although it was more than welcome. It seemed to give Loth new life though and that was bad news for Arthur as the sword was coming down again and he had no choice but to try and block it once more. It wasn’t pleasant, the sword getting dangerously near himself and he could feel his muscles starting to tremble a little under the sheer pressure of Loth’s attacks. That meant Arthur didn’t get a lot of time to scramble back and Loth was soon throwing him to the ground which was the last place you wanted to be in a sword fight, especially with someone as skilled as Loth. Thankfully, he still had a hold on his sword and was keeping it in a defensive position, he wouldn’t be able to block another one of Loth’s major blows though down here. No, he has to get up.

So Arthur was trying to scramble backwards, give him some space so he could get to his feet in time otherwise Loth would just stab him on the way up, he couldn’t afford to take his eyes off him. He would not like to have been trained by Loth, he was violent and harsh but he supposed in war times that wasn’t unusual. Still, his father hadn’t been nearly as dangerous as he guessed Loth would’ve been. Oh, what if he died here in the snow? He‘d never see his family again, never get to see his child or his new sibling. And what about his friends? Caroline would be widowed so soon after they’d married and Lance would have to face punishment from the king for ‘letting’ him run off. No, Arthur would not let that happen. He would win this fight! He just needed to get up.

 

[Officer Newt]

Loth couldn't help but feel a bit of relief as Arthur crashed into the snow. He couldn't let up. But it did give him a bit of opening to breath. Briefly moving his hand towards his injury. Though he soon grit his teeth and shook the pain from his mind. A wide grin formed on his face. Gripping his sword tighter he began to prowl towards Arthur. He could finish this. "You got moxie kiddo. " It was stupid of him to come this far from camp alone. But Arthur had spirit. Shame he'd be dead soon. Loth then lifted his blade. Ready to finish things. When he heard shouting in the distance. Knights probable searching for the prince. Had they found his tracks in the snow yet?

Loth made a mistake then. For a moment he glanced away from Arthur. Towards the noise. Likely fearing being attacked from behind. Though the knights weren't near yet. Still, Taking ones eyes off there opponent was never a good idea. Hopefully Arthur would be able to take advantage of the brief second.