Starfall was beautiful this time of the year, the view from Palestone Sword tower one that brought him far too many memories. Of childhood, of innocence, of times before he became a knight, times before he served King Aerys and times before he had been so bloody loyal to Rhaegar.

They were times like these where he found himself wondering how he'd be of any use. Rhaegar had already told him more than once since he started preparing for the journey: If I die, you're free from your vows.

What sort of knight would he be if he didn't upheld them even after his liege died? But then again, it was a promise sealed in ink and blood, one that he knew he wouldn't be able to come back from. He'd still be a knight, but he wouldn't ever be able to wear the white cloak of the Kingsguards, he wouldn't be able to share drinks with Ser Barristan, or spar with Ser Gerold after a long day.

But he had to protect you. It was his duty now, his only reason to keep going. If he didn't have an oath to keep to Rhaegar, then he'd keep one to you. If something happened with the rest of the royal family, you would be his only hope.

Arthur took in a sharp breath, fingers curling around the edge of the window, and for a moment he could hear Ashara's laughter ringing in the courtyard below. He didn't dare look, but he could sense the presence of someone by his side, most importantly, you, and he couldn't help but turn to give you the most somber smile he could muster.

"Your Grace."