In the late 5th century, Arthuis succeeded his father, King Mor, as the monarch of a Greater Ebrauc (York). He was probably a contemporary of the great High-King Arthur of romantic legend, and stories of the latter's exploits in the north may well be a muddled memory of this Northern King, who is thought to have fought against the Picts on numerous occasions. Upon his death, his kingdom was divided amongst his sons: Eliffer Gosgorddfawr taking the central region around the city of Ebrauc (York) and Pabo Post Prydein taking the Pennines.