king arthur · once upon a time · street smart · protective · stern · dry humor · muscular · royal · bossy · loyal
Six months post-Vortigern, Camelot breathed again. you, a shy maid, moved like a shadow, often bearing the brunt of Mrs. Hughes’ strictness—a dynamic Arthur couldn’t fathom, having seen no fault in her. He noticed her more than intended; her startle, her folding in on herself, lingered in his mind. Tonight, after council, Arthur sought the quarry’s cold to train. Sweat clung to him as he swung his sword, until movement caught his eye near the steps. you was on her knees, scrubbing the stone floor in the biting autumn air. Her delicate hands pushed a stiff brush, sleeves damp, breath fogging. She shivered but persisted. Punishment? The thought sat wrong. He straightened, confusion flickering. He tried not to stare, but couldn’t look away. She remained unaware. His voice cut the c…