#theweepingmonkxreader

The group was readying themselves near one of the church’s walls, Gawain and Arthur were debating on trying to climb in through a window they spotted but Lancelot considered it a bad idea.

Red Spear took out the sheep’s blood and poured it over the front of your tunic, then she went ahead and tore a hole with a knife in the tunic as well. It had to look real and serious and the raider’s Captain was going all out on it.

She smeared it over your clothes, put a hand-print of it on your stomach and coated your own hand in it.

The others looked stunned by the display.

“Isn’t that a bit much?” Arthur dared to question.

Red Spear shot him a glare “Do you want them to believe it or not?”

It silenced him. Gawain shot Lancelot a look.

When she was finally satisfied, you looked like you had partaken in a massacre.

She looked proud of her work “There. That should do it.”

Gawain placed a hand to your shoulder, then lifted it up when feeling the stickiness on his palm “You will do well. Don’t worry and try to distract them as much as you can. We’re not far away if anything goes awry.”

You nodded and walked away around the corner towards the church’s entrance. The second you were around the corner, was the moment your act began.

You hunched over, clutching your abdomen, and your face distorted in a pained grimace.

Of course you did not call out for help until you were slamming the heavy iron knocker on the door and pleaded for those inside the church to help.

When it took a little too long, your frustration could easily be mistaken for despair and you shouted a little louder and more urgent.

The door was opened by a nun who loudly gasped in shock “Heaven! What happened to you?!”

Dammit, you’d forgotten to think of that.

So you went on to act like you could barely speak “Please…help…”

The nun threw the door open and called out to the other nuns for help, even the priest came to see what the ruckus was about.

You stumbled into the church and grasped a hold on the nun’s arm, the door was closed and locked again.

The priest took one look at you and urged the nuns to help “A sister from an abbey, hurry and bring her to the back.”

The nuns were quick to help you towards one of the infirmary rooms this church had, it seemed like you had not been the only one that had ever stumbled into this place like this.

On your way to this room, you had seen similar rooms to help those who needed it.

This place was build like a sanctuary, no wonder they kept their door locked.

They helped you onto a cot and right then a loud thud came from above.

The nuns looked up at the sound of it.

“That was in the storage room…” A sister commented.

It was obvious that none of them truly went into that room and that’s why they found it strange to hear noises coming from it.

Only an outsider would not know this…

To mask the sound, you began to cough loudly “So much blood…”

A sister began to help you out of the bloodied tunic and found your undergown completely free of blood…

A frown settled on the faces of them very quickly.

Mad nun, it was…

You acted like the removal of the tunic had miraculously healed you “I’m… it’s gone! By the grace of god I am healed!”

It still earned you a lot of strange looks, but who were they to doubt the mysterious ways the god they prayed to worked?

One of them placed a hand on your shoulder, visibly concerned “My name is Sister Mary. Can you tell us what happened?”

You hoped it sounded convincing “I came to Helgenstone to purchase some vegetables our abbey is struggling to find. I was on my way to return when a thief stole my satchel. I tried to fight him off but he had a knife.”

Another nun was looking at the tear in the tunic, she looked like she believed in the miraculous healing.

By appearing thankful and relieved you hoped to convince the others “This place, it’s sacred grounds have saved me.”

Sister Mary asked another to fetch a clean tunic for you to wear “You should remain here for a while, until you are certain you are healed. You lost a lot of blood, Sister…?”

Giving your real name could pose a big problem if Wicklow learned of this.

“Sister Pym.” You lied.

“Welcome to our modest home, Sister Pym. Fear not, you will be safe here. But I must warn, we expect a visit from Abbot Wicklow this afternoon and he always travels with the Trinity Guard. Do not worry, you have nothing to fear from them.”

If only she knew…

The one she had send for a clean tunic returned and helped you dress.

“Would you like some tea or perhaps some soup?” Sister Mary asked.

Well, now that she offered it “Some tea would be nice. Thank you.”

As the nuns cleared out of the room, you stood and hoped to follow Sister Mary and learn your way in this place.

By being polite, you hoped she would allow it “The lord’s grace has filled me with life again. Do you mind if I walk with you a little? I would love to see the place that holds so much of his goodness.”

Sister Mary took you aside and quietly asked “Tell me the truth now. You were never wounded. Are you with child? Is that why you seek shelter here?”

It was a necessary lie to not ruin the plan and she was practically feeding it to you… “I am…I fled from my abbey out of fear of bringing dishonor to them.”

She was compassionate “You have nothing to fear here. Our church helps everyone in need. Come, walk with me. I’ll give you a small tour of the place.”

  Walking with her around the church reminded you of your days at the abbey. Sister Mary showed you the kitchens and explained that this was where they made meals for the poorest everyday. It was also where she gave you some tea that you drank while listening to her.

There were indeed multiple infirmary rooms and you could have sworn there was a bowl with what looked like Fey medicine inside…

You said nothing of it.

While walking down a hall, you nearly froze at the sight of two Trinity Guards walking down it as well.

Sister Mary explained “They are here to make certain all is safe for Abbot Wicklow’s arrival, he must be outside waiting with the rest of them. He has acquired many enemies.”

No wonder…

You and Sister Mary moved aside to let them pass, they walked by like neither of you were more than air. By bending your head down, you hoped to stay unrecognized.

Time was ticking…

Getting lost during this tour would not raise many questions, it was a new environment after all.

Waiting for a chance to escape Sister Mary’s sight took a while.

When entering a crowded hall, you blended right in with the veiled crowd and were lost to Sister Mary’s sight.

At least this way you would have an excuse if someone questioned you. Being ‘lost’ offered the opportunity to explore the place in search of Wicklow or the priest who was expected to meet with him.

Where he would be, guards would be.

You came upon a place where eight of the Trinity Guard stood.

Nuns were still walking near the place but kept a distance from the golden masked murderers, one nun almost past you by with a ceramic jug filled with wine and you stopped her.

“Is that for the Abbot, Sister?” You asked the rather young and new looking nun.

She nodded her head shyly “It is.”

It was clear that she wasn’t very keen on the task of bringing it to the Abbot…

You offered her an escape “If you want, I will bring it to the room.”

The young girl was quick to hand you the jug “That would be so kind of you!”

Now that she sounded talkative, you fished for information “Gosh, I wish the Abbot would not bring so many guards. Those masks frighten me.”

The girl sympathized “I agree, he didn’t have to bring along so many… there’s eight of them over there with him just… standing around him. And there’s even more roaming the church.”

Dammit…

She saw the distress on your face and offered “We could go there together. You pour the wine and I serve it?”

It would allow you to be at a distance and lower the risk of getting recognized “Double the hands is half the work.”

Together you walked further down the hall and turned the corner with her into the spacious opening where the Abbot sat opposite the priest.

Neither of you were comfortable walking between the Trinity Guards and you kept your head down and let the veil do it’s work of blocking curious eyes.

The girl went right to the empty tankards that stood on a table nearby at the opposite end of the room.

While watching her accidentally knock over the tankards due to nerves, you could overhear the conversation between Wicklow and the Helgenstone priest.

Wicklow was speaking in that arrogant tone again “As you can deduce, your cooperation will prove valuable for all included parties.”

The priest was not convinced of the Abbot’s ‘preaching’ “Helgenstone has always welcomed everyone regardless of their faith. It is why our city has flourished.”

The Abbot was persistent “It will continue to flourish.”

It was met with a matched stubbornness “Everywhere they-” the priest looked at the golden guard nearest Wicklow “-show their masks, death follows.”

Wicklow wasn’t happy with the defiant priest “Father Samael, Helgenstone is important for the Church’s mission. Many roads lead here, it is crucial that we ensure that the Fey do not seize power here. And we know of your tendency to help all in need without questioning who or what they are.”

Father Samael spoke wise “Is helping those in need not what has been our true mission? The true message the faith has given us all this time. The Church seems to have forgotten what and who we once were.”

Wicklow threatened “Careful, Father Samael, speaking like this is blasphemous.”

The priest rose from the chair abruptly, causing some of the guards to draw their weapons but he did not even flinch “I know the scriptures, Abbot. The real ones that guided us to a better world, not the ones the Church now preaches to the lands.”

The Abbot signaled for the guards to sheath their weapons and stood as well “You will not aid the Church, is that your answer?”

The priest confirmed it “I will not.”

Wicklow threatened him further “This will have consequences, Father Samael. The Holy Father will not support Helgenstone if Helgenstone gives nothing in return.”

You saw Father Samael keep his composure and it only agitated Wicklow further.

After a brief glare, the Abbot tilted his head and signaled to the guards that he was done here.

The girl stood next to you, the tankards of wine now unwanted.

As Wicklow began to walk out the place one guard rudely bumped into you and the jug fell from your hands, shattering on the floor and staining it with red wine.

They were too arrogant to even acknowledge it, even a simple apology was too much.

As you knelt with the girl to collect the shards, you ached for the knife at your ankle.

“I’ll clean it up.” The young nun said.

On another occasion you would have refused to let her do this alone, but Wicklow was leaving…

So you accepted the offer and offered a “Thank you.”

Discreetly you followed the group of guards and Wicklow at a distance, hoping for a chance, one moment where he would be seperated from his guards.

Another came from around the corner and headed straight for Wicklow.

The guard kept his voice low “One of us was found with his throat cut. Others are missing.”

Wicklow realized something was very wrong and still he only responded by giving a simple nod.

He knew now that enemies were near, you needed to get back to the others.

The last thing you knew of their whereabouts was when they were in that storage room, it was the floor above the one you were on.

You headed into the opposite direction from where Wicklow and his guards were heading and searched for a stairwell.

Whilst searching, you did spot a couple of blood drops in a corner near a door opening. Upon opening the door, all you found was an empty sleeping quarter.

And so your search continued, you did find the stairwell and went to the other floor.

It was not as simple to pretend to fit in while also looking odd by going back and forth between hallways and doors…

You tried to locate the storage room and hoped to catch a glimpse of someone soon.

By opening another door and peaking inside, you were caught by Sister Mary.

She sounded very suspicious of you right away “What are you doing? Why did you wander off?”

By keeping up the facade, you hoped to leave the place without a fuss “I’m sorry, I got lost.”

Sister Mary looked disappointed “I don’t believe you. You came into this church by lying and now this.”

It was half a miracle that you were able to stay calm “I can explain.”

Could you?…

She gave a stern look and waited for the explanation.

The same explanation you were struggling to make up on the spot…

Something flew in through the open window nearby and planted itself into the wooden wall behind you.

A burning arrow lighted the wood on fire, the dripping oil from the cloth wrapped around it made it spread even faster.

More burning arrows found their way into the church seconds later and you ducked for cover with Sister Mary.

“Heaven! What is happening?!?” She cried out in fear.

The sound of screaming echoed through the church, alerting you that this floor was not the only one under attack “It’s the Trinity Guard, they are setting this place on fire.”

She could not believe it “Why would they?”

You grabbed hold of her arm and steered her out off the burning hallway “Father Samael refused to hand Abbot Wicklow the reins to Helgenstone’s church, I think the Abbot no longer sees use of it’s existence because of it.”

Fire was blocking path upon path, they were aiming to fire arrows through all windows they could find.

Smoke came from under most closed doors you ran past and you prayed none of the others were in danger.

Sister Mary took the lead and guided the both of you back to the stairwell “We have to get to the doors, quickly!”

Smoke was starting to fill the place and limited your vision.

Once downstairs, the sight of the priest and the other nuns trying to open the large doors made your heart sink.

The Trinity Guard had barricaded the doors from outside, trapping all those present inside of the church.

Your shaking legs did not stop you from going to try and open them yourself.

Pushing past the small crowd, you began to help the Father Samael.

The doors did not budge at all.

Panic rose inside of you “Is there another way out?”

The priest regretted to inform “The fire is blocking it and they are killing those who escape through windows.”

A slaughter had commenced when those trying to escape the flames crawled out the windows and were met with the Trinity Guards who were waiting for them outside.

It was burning alive or getting tortured to death…

The mark’s response on your arm was strong, you could feel it’s pattern.

Was he safe?

Were the others?

Would you ever see him again?

Yeva had seen the fire in your future, had she seen the end?

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You had ordered Raphael to inform everyone that Lancelot was permitted to carry his weapons freely again. As well as informing them that he would be training Percival himself.

When you met them you had sensed many things through the boy.

But him.. the Weeping Monk... Lancelot..

Even though you were skeptical, you could sense something coming from him.

But you never expected that he was fey. It had made you wonder what kind he was ?

After dinner you had went to the small library where the fey books were kept. Not many were left, most showing visible signs of burning. You had searched until one particular description sounded more then familiar to you.

The weeping eyes.

“Ash Folk..” you whispered to yourself as your fingers traced the page. Most of the other text had become unreadable.

You carefully closed the book and placed it back. You could only imagine how he ended up with the Red Paladins. There had not been any Ash Folk around for a long time. He was the first you had met.

Perhaps he was the last ?

There had been doubt about him in your mind, doubt that you could trust him. But what you had sensed through the boy was what made you give him a chance in the first place.

And as you had held your hand above his you had sensed the guilt he felt.

He didn't belong with the Red Paladins, he never really did. He belonged here.

With the boy, with his fey brethren.

You had to speak with him and you made your way towards the infirmary.

You knocked on the door and were greeted by Dahlia, who only held the door open a little. Which alerted you that there was definitely someone present in the room with her. It was her way of protecting the privacy of her patients.

“Your highness. Do you need my help ?” She sounded worried as she studied you.

You quickly shook your head before asking quietly “Is he here ?”

Dahlia gave a nod before she opened the door a bit more, revealing Lancelot who was laying on one of the cots. You had clearly interupted Dahlia's work as his torso was unclad, his wounds now visible to you. You swallowed because of how painful they looked, had you known, you would have never allowed him to come with you to rescue the fey group.

His eyes fell on you still standing in the doorway.

“Can I come in ? I wish to speak with you..” you blurted out a little nervous before realising this might not be appropriate “..or I could return another time..?”

He shook his head and sat up on the cot “It's fine.” he looked at Dahlia, seeking confirmation that she wouldn't kill him for interupting her work “Please, come in.”

You stepped inside a little uncertain.

Dahlia excused herself before she left the room so you could speak to him in private.

When you walked around the room to sit on a small stool nearby, your breath caught in your throat when you saw the scars on his back. They looked self-inflicted, you knew about self-flagellation but you never expected it from him. They were recent, you figured they must have been from around the time he had decided to save the boy.

“You saw.” he stated, keeping his eyes focused on the ground.

He already figured out why you were here now. He had seen the shock in your eyes in the forest when you saw he was fey.

You fidgeted with your clothes “I did. I know what you are. I found a description in one of our books. I never met anyone like you though.” you gestured to your own eyes.

“I'm a traitor to you.” it was something that haunted him.

“Perhaps to the Red Paladins. But not to me.” you corrected him “You know what they say 'A traitor to an enemy is my friend.” you tried to lighten the conversation.

He found himself smiling at your comment, he couldn't even remember when the last time was that he genuinely smiled.

It faded quickly but you had seen it.

“Where will you go when your wounds are healed ? When you're back to your full strength ?” you asked him quietly.

He sighed and laid his head back on the pillow, looking at the ceiling. He opened his mouth to speak but couldn't find the words. He hadn't forgotten that you had allowed him to stay here only until he was healed. After spending time here he had thought about letting himself get injured again by the paladins in the forest, only for a chance to stay here just a little longer. If he left this place he would have to leave the boy here. Percival was safe here, a place where there was a chance for him. A place where he would be protected and clearly you cared for the boy.

But it would be selfish to do so, him staying here was a risk you had taken.

Another selfless act that had shown him that fey, his kind, were never the enemy. That it was all lies fed to him as a child. Lies that had molded him into the weapon to do Father Carden's bidding.

Not long ago it was his mission to wipe out all fey and now he wished for nothing more then to join them. He could not erase what he had done, but he could try to protect what was still left.

You watched him in silence, having expected that he would not have a place to go if he was to leave this city. As a queen, you were taking a big risk to allow him to even enter the city. But you couldn't help but feel that his actions truly haunted him. It was clear when he saved the boy, when he helped you save the fey in the forest, it was in the little things he did. Seeing him now, knowing that he had helped you in the forest while being this wounded from fighting the Trinity Guards before..

“I don't know yet.” he finally admitted quietly “I might head west.” he added.

You quirked a brow at him “What's in the West ?”.

He shifted on the cot and swallowed.

You knew the answer.

Nothing. Nothing was left in the West. Nothing for fey at least.

“Stay.”

He thought he had imagined it and he looked to you, scanning your face “What ?”.

You clasped your hands together in your lap and repeated “Stay”.

His mouth was open but he was lost for words. Were you really asking him to stay ?

“Is that a command, your highness ?” he didn't look at you, now he was the one trying to make light of it. Trying to hide the hope that had build inside of him by that one word.

You smirked at his choice of words “No. It's a request. We need people like you.”

“People who can fight.” he concluded.

“No.” you shook your head before correcting him “People who we can trust. Who do the right thing. And you've proven yourself to be that kind of person.”

You weren't even expecting him to fight ?

“They don't trust me. And I have given them little reason to.” he wasn't sure if he would ever gain their trust.

You smiled at him reassuringly “They will. In time. They know I wouldn't just allow you to stay here without a good reason.”

“And what reason would that be ?” he inquired, now looking at you.

“I trust you.”

He fell silent, his gaze now landing on his hands “After everything I did ?”

You stood up from the stool as you replied sincerely “I know you will not betray me or my city. This is where you belong, Lancelot.”

His eyes snapped up to yours at the mention of his name. Still not knowing how you even knew his name if Percival hadn't told you.

“How do you know my name ?” his eyes followed you as you stepped closer.

You reached out your hand, letting it hover above one of his and that's when he felt it.

He could feel a soft tingling sensation on his hand, but there was something different there. Nothing like any fey magic he has experienced.

He looked at your hand above his, and noticed silver fey marks lighting up from your wrist and hand. The feeling grew stronger. It wasn't an unpleasant feeling, just strange..like it wanted to draw something from him.

He always believed there was more to your magic then you let on.

“Like I said, I can sense certain things.” you went to move away your hand.

But he was quick and took hold of your hand with his, and at that moment it felt as if a rush of magic passed through him.

It was enough for him to confirm his theory about your magic “When you use your magic, you pick up on things about them ?”

You didn't move or pull your hand away as you gave a short nod.

“Memories, names and sometimes their true emotions. Percival looks up to you, I learned your name because you saving him left quite the impression on him.”

He let go off your hand, the last thing he wanted was for you to see the memories that haunted him “But you didn't sense I was fey ?”

You shook your head and explained it to him "Children are easiest to sense. The boy, Percival, he hides almost nothing. His boldness is admirable. The older they become, the harder it is to sense something. Adults... only the strongest things slip past their barrier."

His eyes locked on yours “What did you sense about me when we met ?”

His eyes on yours made you nervous, but it was clear to you that he wanted the truth.

“You feel guilty.” you carefully said “It's been tearing you apart. And by touching my hand just now.. I know that you wish you could undo it all. You were just a child and they filled your mind with lies to make you into their weapon.”

Lancelot's eyes moved away from yours, swallowing hard. He feared his voice would break if he spoke. He didn't expect you to get all that from him.

You saw how he was barely keeping his composure now, the pain he felt threatening to reach the surface.

“I..” you fell silent, thinking about your next words “I don't need to use my fey senses to know that you belong here. With us. With the boy.”

He looked at you and you could see in his eyes how broken he was from it all.

“I want you to stay.. please ?” you knew you were almost begging now. But you refused to give up on him. Not after what you had just sensed through him.

He slowly nodded his head. Perhaps it was selfish, but he just couldn't refuse. Not with how you were almost begging him to stay.

After everything, you still didn't turn him away.

A wide smile grew on your face when you saw him nod. It would not be an easy path for him but this was the right thing, you could feel it.

“Welcome home, Lancelot.”

The sadness in his eyes was replaced with hope at your words.

He was able to stay here, with Percival.

It dawned on him that he felt relief when he realised he would not have to leave you. You were one of the only people who had treated him like a person. To you, he was not a weapon to wield, but an actual person.

"How did you become queen ?" he suddenly asked.

A question that had lingered in his mind since he got here.

You thought about your own past now "I was born from a poor family. My parents fell sick when I was a child and passed away not long after. I had to fight to build this place.." You walked around the room. "You weren't born here then ?" He guessed. "When I arrived here this place was but ruins. My father had taught me the basics of fighting, I used it to help fey and humans who searched for a safe place. Away from those who wished them dead." He understood why people respected you now "You have build your own kingdom." This made you smile "I never asked to be queen. They just chose me, they rely on me to keep them safe. To make the rules and the decisions." He was impressed to say the least, you were but a child and fought your way through it all to be where you were now. "Your people look to you with much respect." He informed as he looked up at you. "These are your people too.” you smiled at him, tilting your head at him.

He let out a breath and nodded in silent agreement.

“What is the story of your knights ? Crillan and Raphael ?” He was mostly curious about the latter.

“I met Crillan some years after I met Raphael. I saved him years ago, his overconfidence almost got him killed when he thought he could fight off twenty paladins on his own. I really thought he wasn't going to survive. But Dahlia works wonders, as you can see.” You gestured at him.

And he looked at the wounds on his arm, agreeing with that fact.

“He's impulsive, but he's loyal. He would die to protect anyone in this city in the blink of an eye. I have to remind him often that his own life matters to me as well.” you joked.

To Lancelot it seemed like a good description after having met the knight “And Raphael ? He's your second in command is he not ?”

“Hard to miss isn't it ?” a soft laugh fell from your lips “He's been with me the longest. He's as old as I am. I met him when he was leading a fey group through this forest. Raphael saw his family get killed, his wife..” you fell silent.

He didn't have to ask to know that the red paladins had killed them, no wonder he didn't want him to accompany you in the forest. It explained why the knight was so protective towards you.

You continued quietly “He has an abundance of patience, but in a fight he's fast. I have never seen someone fight like that until I met him.. and you. You and him might be the fiercest fighters. I secretly wonder who would win in a fight.”

He scoffed softly at the thought “I do not wish to find out.”

“A wise thing.” you chuckled.

A knock on the door was heard before it creaked open.

Dahlia sticked her head around the corner “Your highness. It's getting late and he still needs my care.”

“Oh, yes. Of course.” you immediately went to the door as Dahlia came in “Forgive me for interupting. Please, take good care of him ?”

She looked at you as if you had asked her something silly.

“Right..” you realised your dumb mistake. Of course she would.

You turned to him one last time, tapping your fingers against the door “Then all there is left for me is to wish you a good night. So.. goodnight.”

A quick nod coming from him acknowledged you and you were already out the door when he said “Good night, y/n.'”

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When you walked outside the castle, people were running around, preparing for battle. You walked next to Lancelot with a quick pace “How exactly are we going to do this ?” His focus was on the people running around and then he looked to the gates “Sir Raphael, tell the archers to find cover in the streets as well.” The knight looked at him in shock“The archers ?!” Lancelot resisted the urge to roll his eyes and looked at you. “Do as he says.” You tell Raphael who finally followed the order. He again started walking in a quick pace but you grabbed hold of his arm, making him look at you. “Our archers are our defenses ! Why are we sending everyone into hiding ?” You demanded to know. Lancelot finally explained "I know how they fight. They are at their strongest as a group. We need to find a way to isolate them from eachother. " Some fey archers ran past you “And how are we going to achieve that ?” “By using their own methods against them.” He said with a lopsided grin before tilting his head towards the gates. You followed him and watched in utter confussion when he started to open the gates and beckoned for you to help him, “Lancelot ! What are you doing ?!” You went to close them again but he stopped you. He took hold of your shoulder and made you look at him “Do you trust me, y/n ?” You furrowed your brows, but nodded “Yes.” “Then help me open the gates.” His voice was almost pleading. His calm exterior showing cracks, revealing how stressed he actually was. You stepped back and helped him open the gates, ignoring the confused looks from the people. Joining him again when they were open you quirked a brow “You do realise that they will be able to march right into the city ?” A low chuckle escaped him “I'm counting on it.” “Should I hand over my sword to them as well while we're at it or..?” Your voice was filled with sarcasm. “Don't exaggerate, your skill with the sword is not that poor.” He quipped, his voice deadpan. You scoffed and stopped in your tracks “Excuse me ?” He stopped to look at you, unable to hide how the corner of his mouth turned up a little as he saw how offended you looked. You knew it was a terrible time to be dramatic but sometimes he could be so arrogant “I bested you ! Remember ? You told me yourself.” Oh, he remembered it. He remembered how he would have disarmed you if it had not been so enjoyable to lose to you. “I lied.” He admitted whilst smirking. You narrowed your eyes at him now “If we survive this, we're going to settle this 'debate'.” “As you wish.” Lancelot looked quite pleased with that. You got the feeling that he found the idea of sparring with you again exciting. And that was exactly the case. He placed a hand on your back and guided you through the city, all while he seemed to keep an eye on the houses. “What signal are we using to alert the people when to attack ?” You found his silence nerve-wracking. “They will know.” He repeated, still smirking. Suddenly he stopped and looked around “We will wait here.” The streets appeared deserted now as if the people had disappeared into thin air. But he could smell them, they were there. Lancelot turned to you “They will fire arrows and set the houses on fire. When that happens I need you to try and use your magic.” Your eyes widened when he explains his plan “What ?! I don't even know if I can do it !” you panicked. In one quick pace he's in front of you, his hands cupping your face. Eyes boring into yours. “You can do this, y/n. I'm right here if it goes wrong.” You felt yourself calming down and then you figured out what his plan was. How he intended to break the trinity guard groups apart. Your eyes went to the houses and your mind connected the dots with what you had told him about your magic. He gave a knowing nod and you did the same. “If this goes wrong..” You feared the thought. He swallowed hard and brushed his thumbs over your cheeks “Then I will protect you and this city until my last breath.” You bit back the stab you felt at his words, you couldn't even stand the thought of losing him. “I did command you not to fight until you were fully healed.” You reminded him, lightly joking. His mouth turned into a smirk "I'm not one of your soldiers or a knight." "You could be.." You gazed at him "Sir Lancelot sounds nice." Lancelot opened his mouth in suprise “Are you knighting me ?” “I am.” There was no hint of joking in your voice anymore. He drew a shaking breath, a smile forming on his face. His eyes fell on your lips “How could I refuse..” You pulled him into a kiss, not caring if others saw it or not. Lancelot belonged here. A sound made you both break apart, he quickly looked up right on time to see a burning arrow land on one of the houses. You immediately got ready to use your magic but he stopped you. “Not yet. Wait until some others are burning.” He pulled you back a bit to get a clearer view on the streets. “I will ask The Hidden to help me. So my magic will not effect our eyes as much, only the trinity guards.” You quickly said. He acknowledged you with a nod and other burning arrows soon followed, setting a bunch of houses on fire now. Thick smoke emerged from the houses and then you saw a group of trinity guards approach. “Now.” Lancelot said loud enough for you to hear. You stretched your arms and called upon The Hidden for aid, the whispering started and grew louder. You felt your skin tingle before you felt your magic flow through your body. The silver fey marks spreading from your arms to your neck. Lancelot drew his sword, readying himself in case the plan failed. A gush of wind brushed past him, a familiar sensation. He could hear the whispering too now, it was faint at first but the wind grew stronger and the whispers louder. He watched as you focused on the burning houses, and saw the smoke circle upwards before it came down on the streets. Cloaking the streets in the smoke of the fires. His eyes still able to see a lot through the smoke. The plan was working. The people came out of hiding, realising that this was the moment to strike. The moment of advantage. You could hear fighting coming from the other side as well, and moments later it sounded like there were fights everywhere. You couldn't stick together if you were to win this battle “I'll go west !” He was ready to protest but knew that it was the right call if he wanted to win this fight. He watched as you ran to the west side of the city before turning his attention on the trinity guards who had been approaching. The only thing that alerted the trinity guards to their inevitable doom was the sound of steel as it moved through the wind.

You ran to the west side of the city, the people and soldiers were fighting bravely in the smoke and wind. The trinity guards sight was lesser but they still fought dangerously well. But Lancelot was right when he said they were more lethal in group and the smoke made it hard for them to work together. A fey man fell to the ground when he was struck by a trinity guard, the trinity guard raised his sword to stab the man on the ground but you struck him in the back. Blood splattered everywhere as the trinity guard fell dead to the ground. You helped the man up on his feet and told him to run when you saw another trinity guard approach. Your swords clashed, and you had to move to the side as he tried to disarm you. You kicked him in the stomach and he stumbled backwards. You charged at him acting as if you were going to strike and he held up his sword to block. But instead you spun and went low, letting your sword cut his abdomen open. You're suddenly grabbed from behind and you're just in time to grab their hand to prevent them from stabbing you with a dagger. You struggled against them, until something passed right by your face. The trinity guard fell backwards. You quickly turned around only to see an arrow sticking out of their head. You looked around to see where it had come from, half expecting it to have been Lancelot or even Raphael firing the arrow. But then your eyes focused on a small form approaching you. “PERCIVAL ?!?” You couldn't believe your eyes when you saw the boy standing there with a bow. “Are you alright ?” He hurried to your side. You nodded and grabbed hold of his shoulder to drag him with you through the streets “Why are you not in the tunnels ?!” “The tunnels are for those who can't fight !” He said matter-of-factly. It was no use to argue with the boy and you went to see where your knights were. You moved quickly through the streets with the boy “Have you seen Lancelot ?” “I saw him fighting near the training field.” He decided to leave out the part where he made sure Lancelot didn't saw him. “Then that's where we're going. Come on !” Percival followed you through the streets but then you noticed the smoke was starting to disappear. You cursed and moved faster, taking another trinity guard out who ran into you. You were nearing the field when you heard Raphael's voice. “It is him you're after !” You watched in horror and shock when you saw Raphael push Lancelot to the ground, he landed on his knees. His hands tied by rope. You grabbed Percival and took cover behind a hay wagon. “What is he doing ?!” Percival was just as shocked as you were. Was Raphael truly betraying you now ? After all this time ? Raphael held his sword against Lancelot's back “Take him and leave this city. That is my offer.” You gasped and had to hold Percival so he wouldn't run up the field. The remaining trinity guards gathered around them on the field and you watched in horror as the others also walked on the field towards them. You didn't know what to do, you grabbed Percival's face in your hands, making him look at you. “Stay here. Do you understand ? STAY!” There was no room for discussion. He reluctantly nodded to you and you sneaked closer to the field.

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Night was falling, yet the forest was never quiet in the dark. The sound of small animals clearly audible.

Crillan rode next to you “He won't admit it, you know ?”

You furrowed your brow and looked at him “What ?”

He looked at you again with a shit-eating grin “Lancelot.”

Your eyes snapped away from him again and focused on the forest.

“Your silence tells me that you know what I am speaking of.” Crillan sounded pleased with himself.

“I don't.” you lied.

He rolled his eyes “Although it was amusing at first, I must say that it has become painful to watch you two ignore what is so blatantly obvious.”

“Can we just focus on the task at hand ?” you tried to keep your voice normal.

Crillan ignored it and chuckled “He won't admit it. Not unless you admit it first.” his voice turned serious “I see how you look at him, y/n. The boy sees it and even Raphael has noticed. People are talking..”

“Let them talk.” your grip on the reins thightened.

“Tell him.” he leaned toward you, and there was no sign of joking in his voice anymore “End his suffering.”

You let his words sink in. You had been so afraid of rejection that you hadn't considered how Lancelot must feel if he indeed shared the same feeling.

Realising it must be worse for him if it was true, you looked at Crillan and nodded.

He smiled and then it looked like he spotted something on the ground.

You raised your hand and the soldiers behind you halted.

Crillan lowered himself off of his horse and kneeled down “Tracks.”

You nod and got off of your horse as well, the soldiers followed your example.

“How many ?” you asked him.

He looked around for more but couldn't spot any “Just the one.”

You followed Crillan through the dark forest as he followed the tracks.

Then he suddenly stopped and looked to the grass confused.

“What is it ?” You were alarmed by his expression.

Crillan's eyes went from confussion to realisation when he saw you had arrived at an open spot in the forest “They've stopped..”

You heard rustling coming and it sure didn't sound like small animals.

Cloaked men with golden masks emerged from the shadows. You cursed and grabbed your sword "Crillan !". Crillan had already spotted the trinity guards as well and readied himself for battle along with your soldiers. A scream was heard as one of your soldiers was struck with a flail. You ran up to help them, blood was gushing from their neck. The trinity guard lashed at you as well, only scrapping the skin on your shoulder. The impact caused you to stumble backwards as you regained your balance.

Your soldier he had struck was on the ground and no longer moving. The flail was a deadly weapon but it was slower then a sword. You had to move fast. Dodging his next attack before planting your sword in his side, pulling it back out again before you spun around and slashed his back. The trinity guard fell to the ground. One of your soldiers came to help and stabbed him through the throat with a dagger, killing him. You gave a gratefull nod. Then you felt something move past you and the soldier fell to her knees in front of you.

An arrow had landed in her chest. You were horrified and turned to see where it had come from. Crillan and the last soldier were fighting bravely, but when you looked around you saw you were outnumbered. And the worst part was that there were archers taking aim at you, Crillan and the soldier. He hadn't spotted the archers yet, the trees not close enough to find cover in time. "Crillan ! Look out ! ARCHERS !" Your voice desperate as you yelled. His eyes now landed on the archers, he tried to pull the soldier out of the way as he saw an arrow incoming only for the soldier to be struck by one coming from another direction. A trinity guard charged him and he defended himself, you ran up to him to help. He was able to kill the trinity guard and saw you running to him. You froze in place when an arrow landed in Crillan's chest. "NO!" you cried out and ran to him as he fell to the ground.

You fell to your knees next to him. He was drawing shallow breaths and tears fell from your eyes as you took his hand in yours. "Please, gods..no..please.." You didn't know what to do.

There was no chance for you to use your magic to heal him. They were already aiming for you now. Crillan looked up at you "Y/n, run.." he could barely form the words. Blood started to flow from the corner of his mouth. You shook your head, unwilling to leave him behind. Then, it was you that was struck by an arrow.

+++++++++++++++++

A gush of wind brushed against him, as if something had passed him by. He looked behind him as an unsettling feeling krept up on him. It was as if the wind had carried something with it, something only he had felt. His attention faltered because of this and Percival managed to strike him against the leg. His eyes snapped to the boy in suprise. "Are you sleeping or what ?" The boy taunted but then noticed the confused look on Lancelot's face. "Did you feel that ? That.." His instincts were telling him that it wasn't just the wind. Percival shook his head, looking at him as if he was perhaps going insane. He pauzed for a moment, waiting to see if it would happen again but it didnt't. This city was filled with fey, it could have just been someone using their magic. But why did the boy not feel it as well ? Percival went to swing his sword again, but this time Lancelot blocked it. He looked down at the boy who was getting tired of waiting around. Sighing he took a few steps back before gesturing to the boy to attack. ++++++++++++++++ After the arrow had struck you, you stood up to attack. Two trinity guards perished by your sword and you pulled the arrow from your shoulder before they overpowered you.

There were just too many. They pulled you by your hair in a kneeling position. You tried to break free from the guard's grasp and another struck your jaw with his fist. You could feel blood in your mouth now. Your eyes landed on Crillan laying lifeless on the ground not far from you. They pulled your head back to look up. The Trinity guard in front of you spoke "Are these your woods, fey?" You refused to answer and were struck again, it caused a cut next to your eyebrow. "Yes.." You answered reluctantly while thinking of a way to escape. "A man came through here recently, along with a fey boy. If you tell us where they are or where we can find them, we'll spare your life." It came as no suprise that the Trinity guard was here for Lancelot. Why else would they be ? But there was no way in hell that you were going to tell them what you knew. Instead you looked up at the trinity guard and spat at him. His golden mask was now covered in blood splatters. He wasn't happy with that answer, and proceeded to punch you in the stomach. Hard. You fell over, using your hands to prevent yourself from falling face down on the ground With your last strength, knowing this could be the end, you pulled out your dagger and cut him above the ankle and he lost his balance and fell over. You moved back to stab the one behind you in the stomach. Pushing another backwards against others charging at you. You ran knowing your life depended on it. You hid behind some trees as you heard them looking for you, until you decided to try and reach one of the horses. And you did. It took your last strength to pull yourself in the saddle. You had to reach the city to warn the others.

+ + + + + + +  + + + + +

Night had fallen when Lancelot walked back to the castle with Percival. His eyes searching for you, for a sign that you had returned.

The unsettling feeling grew inside of him, as if he senses were warning him.

He spotted Raphael and noticed the tension as the knight spoke to one of the fey archers.

With an inclination of his head, the archer stepped away from the knight in a hurry.

Lancelot approached him and the closer he got, the more he noticed how tense the knight appeared.

“The queen has not returned yet ?” It came out as a question but Lancelot knew. He knew something wasn't right.

The knight spoke in a hushed voice “None of them have returned yet.” he shook his head and grimaced “Our archers have not spotted them either. And there are no sightings of the people they were looking for.”

Lancelot's eyes snapped to the knight at the information “What people ?”

Raphael looked at him, realising he had said too much.

He sighed “Our scouts had spotted people in the forest. They were believed to be armed.” Raphael looked at the archers on the wall and how they hurried from one side to the other.

Lancelot followed his eyes, a feeling of dread now settled inside of him. He felt the tense atmosphere all over the place now.

“It is usually just people seeking refugee..” Raphael told him, but it was clear that the knight doubted this was the case now.

He put a hand on Percival's shoulder pulling the boy's attention to him “Go get Goliath.”

The boy understood the situation instantly.

“The queen was adamant that you would not take risks until you are fully healed !” The knight reminded him and Percival stopped.

Lancelot turned back to him, adrenaline already rushing through him “Night has fallen! Your queen and her company have not returned, nor have there been any sightings of them !!! If they are in danger I am your best chance at finding them !”

Anger was spilling over inside of him, he would not stand by and wait.

A commotion pulled his attention towards the city gates. He heard an archer on the walls shout to Raphael "It's the queen ! She's wounded !"

The archer informed Raphael loud enough for Lancelot to hear it as well. He looked at Percival, a worried look mimicking his. He hastened to the gates and Percival followed him. He knew you had been in battle before but what worried him greatly is that the archer didn't speak of the others who had gone with you.

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