The time has arrived...the sun has just started to dip beneath the horizon and it's now time to declare the beginning of the festival.

For the first time, Arthur heads out onto the balcony of Camelot Castle alone, he's not there to join his father (who remains in his room alternating between being completely unresponsive and sobbing) and there's no Morgana for support either.

The silence seems almost deafening to Arthur as he reaches the edge of the balcony and looks out at a sea of people. The whole town has managed to crowd into the castle courtyard and all are looking at him expectantly.

Arthur is terrified.

All the confidence he has on the tournament field, when hunting, when leading the knights seems to have deserted him. The only thing that keeps him from turning around is not wishing to let down the people, his friends and knights, Guinevere and even Merlin.

He takes a deep breath and tries to ignore his crown, which has always annoyed him, and speaks.

"People of Camelot, I welcome you all to the beginning of the Festival of Beltane. After everything that has happened over the last few months, this is a time for rebirth and renewal."

He's not sure, but he thinks he spots Monmouth out the corner of his eye nodding happily, no doubt glad some of his speech got through.

"For the next three days I invite you all to celebrate and enjoy and do all things that Beltane entails. Happy Beltane to all."

Arthur wasn't sure what he expected, in his opinion it was a pretty pathetic attempt especially considering he spent three days on it, but he's almost knocked off his feet by cheers and applause.

For a moment he wonders if they're cheering someone else, has his father suddenly appeared on the balcony.

But no, in amongst the cheers he can discern the words "Long live the Prince!"

Down in the courtyard he spots the knights joining in the cheering and applause, even Gwaine!

It's so surprising he's not even sure what to do, so settles on waving awkwardly before heading back inside, where hopefully he can find Guinevere, he needs a hug!