Ned let out a sigh of relief when it seemed he had Sisse securely under the arms, and she'd finally let go of the paddle. The weight of her and her many skirts had him sinking slightly, but he wouldn't allow her to go under. Leaning back, so they were both somewhat laying in the water, he started to fiercely kick his legs out, in almost a frog-like fashion. It seemed his plan would work as they started to propel their way closer to the shore.

His face grew red from the exertion, finding it exceedingly difficult to swim while carrying another, especially without the use of his arms, but he was determined not to let her drown. Just when he thought they weren't going to make it, his legs drifted downward, and Ned felt his toes graze the silt that gave the Black Lake its murky appearance.

"Al...most..." he hissed out between breaths, suddenly gaining a second wind in which to close the gap between the deep and where he could stand. Once his feet confidently hit the ground, he allowed a tired grin to grace his face, and he half, pulled, half stumbled over Sisse until she too could stand. He continued to urge her toward the shore, even as the water began to only reach their waists.