Featured Character: Arthur
Rating/Warnings: K
Word Count: 334
Summary: This is based off of the Poisoned Chalice.
Arthur knew he was doing wrong. He knew he should listen to his father and follow his orders. However, the Prince knew that he should break the Kings command just this once. A man, his servant, his friend, risked his life for him, Prince Arthur. He was now laying in his deathbed with no antidote in sight. But, Arthur could get the flower. He would save Merlin, even if it was the last thing he did. The Prince really wouldn't be surprised if Uther stripped the titles from him or skewered him alive, but both things were worth it if it meant Merlin could live.
The hours seemed to drag by, but finally the night settled firmly on the land. He peered out the window and watched as the candle lights were slowly extinguished – one by one until no home was lit. That was the Prince's signal.
Securing his sword, Arthur grabbed the rope he stored in the chest at the foot of the bed. One never knows when climbing out of a window is a must. After all, the castle could catch fire in the middle of the night and without rope no one could escape. Also, the citadel could always be infiltrated. In that situation, the royal family would need to flee in haste and the only way out might be through the window.
Tying the rope to the sturdiest piece of furniture in his room (that was also near the window), he climbed down the rope as fast as he could. Within minutes Arthur knew the warning bell would ring. The Prince needed to be out of the gates before it rang. He had to be long gone before then and in fact he planned on it! With haste he went to the barn and slapped a saddle and bridle on his horse. Tightening the straps and latching the buckles, Arthur rode out through the night. He was going to save Merlin if it was the last thing he'd ever do.