The Wedding Of Borus
Author's Notes: Firstly, I do not own any of the characters in this fanfiction. They belong to Konami's Genso Suikoden 3. Next, I'd like to warn you that some people might be out of character. Plus I'm writing this with my eyes half shut, so pardon the bad writing. Last, but not least, please read and review. Thank you.
Btw, the names Bors, Perceval and Galahad did exist as Knights of the Round Table.
_____________________________
If it had been one of those peaceful days Galahad would have laughed at Borus' bulging eyes and red (...or was that purple?) face. However, this was a matter of life and death. Galahad knew from Borus' bewildered expression that he was in a state of disbelief, so he decided to tell the story from the beginning. Borus was still baffled as Galahad gently pushed him back to his chair and then began his tale.
***
Galahad and Pelise had inspected the outskirts of the city when Galahad decided to visit the fateful forest again. He excused himself as wanting to explore the borders of the Grasslands and made his way alone. Half way on the path a cloaked figure on a white steed stopped before him. The horse was a magnificent creature, with its silver hair glistening under the sun and its body fancifully adorned. Its master, however, didn't seem quite human with its curved back and less than proportional body. Galahad was puzzled as to why this...person blocked his way. There was no weapon at sight, but that didn't mean there was no threat. Galahad's hand automatically felt for his sword.
"There is no need for your sword, good sir. I mean you no harm."
It was the voice of a lady, yet when the cloak was taken off Galahad could not hide his surprise. He almost fell off his horse. Literally.
She was the ugliest creature he, or any man for that matter, had ever seen. With a red face and a nose running like a tap, calling this woman ugly would be complimenting her. She had yellow teeth with two long, crooked fangs and a wide mouth to fit them all. Her bulging eyes and flat, broad cheeks were nothing compared to her elephant-leg-like neck. Her gray and white clotted hair was filled with dirt (I hope it's dirt), which laid on her one-yard-wide shoulders. There was no difference between the waist and the hips, and her breasts fell onto her lap. There was no word fit to describe her, as she was the most hideous thing ever created. No, this was beyond ugly.
'Egads...WHAT in heaven's name is she?' Galahad wasn't even sure that she could be classified as a 'she'. He would have fainted on the spot if he had a weaker heart. What did she want with him? As Galahad was too traumatized to ask, the woman decided to speak first.
"I am pleased to meet you, good sir, for your life is in my hands. Do not look so confused, sir, as I know all about your little secret. All the answers you have now will do you no good, but only I can prevent your death. However, I want you to promise something in exchange for your life."
'She must be a witch....' Galahad was filled with contempt by her arrogant words and that scornful grin plastered on her already awful face. However, imagining him being chained as a slave to her sent cold shivers up his spine. A moment passed before he asked,
"Lady, do not beat around the bush. I have no need of you. Tell me what you mean and why my life is in your hands. What is it that you want?"
"Truly, Captain, I am no villain. All I ask is this; if my answer saves your life, you must grant me a knight to wed."
Horrified, Galahad's face turned white. His entire body seemed to have frozen while his mind was whirling a million objections. He would most certainly rather die than have this monstrosity as his wife. The longer he stared at her the larger the urge to just stab himself with his own sword became. The witch (Galahad deemed her as one) sniggered most terrifyingly before continuing,
"It is not you whom I want, good but old sir. His name is Sir Borus. You must promise me this, or you will lose your head."
Although relieved, Galahad felt his heart being squashed. He could not allow Borus to suffer with this...woman because of him, but this was the only way to save his head. 'Dear Lord, this cannot be happening...' Depressed, the captain replied,
"I cannot promise you, fair lady, that I will order Sir Borus to wed as that all depends on him. However, I shall try and tell him of my dilemma."
"Then go now, good sir, and ask him nicely. Though I am foul, I am still a woman, with needs. Borus is the one now who can save you, or kill you."
With that the woman reached up and used her claw-like fingers to scratch her hair, from where dust-like mass started to fall out. Disgusted, Galahad's heart fell, as he knew Borus wouldn't say no to this request, but how could he allow his loyal comrade and trusted friend to wed such a unsightly, lusty woman? There was nothing uglier than her, yet he would be giving her to Borus. 'What am I to do?'
"This is the only chance you get. You shall meet me here alone with your answer in two days. Now farewell, Captain."
"Wait. Pray tell, what is your name?"
"I am commonly known as The White Hag. Good day, sir."
Without waiting for a response from Galahad, the White Hag put her cloak back on and rode away. The captain's heart sunk even further. This was even sadder news. He was to blame for all this. He should have left the deer alone. It was all too late for regrets now. He just wished Borus would refuse.
***
Borus sat there, his face blank while his mind was filled with running thoughts. Why did she choose him to marry? Why not Percival? He had broken so many hearts that he deserved to be punished. No, that was not the point. Percival was better at satisfying women and had more experience. Or Salome, though old, he was still strong. Or anyone. Marriage was the last thing Borus had in mind yet here he was, being asked to wed to save his captain. 'WHY ME???'
However, a knight has his duties. Borus would never let anything bad befall his commander if he could prevent it, even if it means losing his chastity to the ugliest thing on earth. Galahad was like a second father to him, having looked after him all these years and teaching him everything needed to be a noble knight. He would save him, regardless the consequences. Taking back control of his rational self, Borus said,
"Captain, I shall wed her and wed her again if necessary, even if she is a Lizardfolk or uglier than one. I would wed her, I swear, or I would not be your friend. You have been kind to me, sir, thus I will not hesitate to save your life. 'Tis my duty."
Galahad was once again touched by the words of this brave young knight. Feeling his eyes warming, Galahad asked once again,
"...Are you sure, Borus? This White Hag said that her answer would save me, but in return she wants you. Alas! She is the foulest creature I have ever seen!"
'That...isn't very comforting...' Borus had better assure both his captain and himself before his resolve collapsed.
"This will not stop me, sir. Rest assured that I will wed her no matter how ugly she is."
Just then Borus felt himself lunging forward as Galahad pulled him into a warm hug.
"Oh thank you Borus! You are the best knight I have ever found. You have saved my life and reputation and for that, I will never stop honoring you."
_____________________________
Two days later, Galahad rode off to give his answer to the White Hag as well as Jimba. Borus wanted to come along, but it wasn't allowed. Thus he settled for praying for all to go well.
Not long had he ridden down the path when he met the White Hag.
"Good day, Captain! I can see you've come with good news."
"Now, tell me your answer and save my life, and Sir Borus will wed you. He has made that promise and you shall have your desire. Therefore tell me the answer quickly."
Galahad may have sounded rude, but he was extremely displeased with the wretched woman's smirk. The White Hag sighed and said,
"I shall now tell you what women want most from all men. Some say we desire to be beautiful, or pleasure in bed, or many husbands, or money and jewelry, but you just don't understand. We want something entirely different. We want full control of our lives, sovereignty and power over men. 'Tis is what we desire. Now go, good sir, and tell that man what I have told you. Your life now is safe in all ways, this I promise."
_____________________________
Galahad rode fast and far to the place of meeting. Sure enough, Jimba had been waiting for him at the same spot with an eager look on his face. When he asked for an answer, Galahad showed him the books of answers in which Borus and he had collected from their journey. Having looked through the last page, Jimba shook his head and said,
"No, Captain. All these answers do not suit her. You are a dead man."
'Suit who? Is your question not referring to all women in general?' Galahad decided not to pursue that matter and prepared his final answer.
"Wait, Sir Jimba. I have one last answer."
"Hurry and say it then, Captain, or you'll suffer a painful death."
Jimba was now quite annoyed, as he still did not know what 'she' would want.
"I have the true answer here, though a heavy price was paid. What women desire most is sovereignty. They want to rule over even the most powerful of men. Only then will they be happy."
Jimba's eyebrows shot up. Why didn't he think of that? But of course! How could the chief of a big clan like Karaya settle for anything lesser than power and control? Indeed, that was very much like 'her'. Satisfied with the answer, Jimba smirked,
"Thus a true answer indeed. The one who gave you that answer must be wise and fair."
'Hardly...' Galahad thought dryly. Nevertheless, that answer saved his life and Jimba left, his mind running with ideas to win his lady's heart.
Galahad turned around relieved, mentally warning himself never to let such a foolish mistake happen again, and headed back home when he met the White Hag at the exact same spot she was earlier. His heart stopped for a moment. She ignored the expression on his face and beamed,
"Captain Galahad, I am glad we have won! I have kept my end of the bargain and now it is your turn. Sir Borus must marry me, good sir, just as you promised."
______________
To be continued~
Author's Notes: Firstly, I do not own any of the characters in this fanfiction. They belong to Konami's Genso Suikoden 3. Next, I'd like to warn you that some people might be out of character. Plus I'm writing this with my eyes half shut, so pardon the bad writing. Last, but not least, please read and review. Thank you.
Btw, the names Bors, Perceval and Galahad did exist as Knights of the Round Table.
_____________________________
If it had been one of those peaceful days Galahad would have laughed at Borus' bulging eyes and red (...or was that purple?) face. However, this was a matter of life and death. Galahad knew from Borus' bewildered expression that he was in a state of disbelief, so he decided to tell the story from the beginning. Borus was still baffled as Galahad gently pushed him back to his chair and then began his tale.
***
Galahad and Pelise had inspected the outskirts of the city when Galahad decided to visit the fateful forest again. He excused himself as wanting to explore the borders of the Grasslands and made his way alone. Half way on the path a cloaked figure on a white steed stopped before him. The horse was a magnificent creature, with its silver hair glistening under the sun and its body fancifully adorned. Its master, however, didn't seem quite human with its curved back and less than proportional body. Galahad was puzzled as to why this...person blocked his way. There was no weapon at sight, but that didn't mean there was no threat. Galahad's hand automatically felt for his sword.
"There is no need for your sword, good sir. I mean you no harm."
It was the voice of a lady, yet when the cloak was taken off Galahad could not hide his surprise. He almost fell off his horse. Literally.
She was the ugliest creature he, or any man for that matter, had ever seen. With a red face and a nose running like a tap, calling this woman ugly would be complimenting her. She had yellow teeth with two long, crooked fangs and a wide mouth to fit them all. Her bulging eyes and flat, broad cheeks were nothing compared to her elephant-leg-like neck. Her gray and white clotted hair was filled with dirt (I hope it's dirt), which laid on her one-yard-wide shoulders. There was no difference between the waist and the hips, and her breasts fell onto her lap. There was no word fit to describe her, as she was the most hideous thing ever created. No, this was beyond ugly.
'Egads...WHAT in heaven's name is she?' Galahad wasn't even sure that she could be classified as a 'she'. He would have fainted on the spot if he had a weaker heart. What did she want with him? As Galahad was too traumatized to ask, the woman decided to speak first.
"I am pleased to meet you, good sir, for your life is in my hands. Do not look so confused, sir, as I know all about your little secret. All the answers you have now will do you no good, but only I can prevent your death. However, I want you to promise something in exchange for your life."
'She must be a witch....' Galahad was filled with contempt by her arrogant words and that scornful grin plastered on her already awful face. However, imagining him being chained as a slave to her sent cold shivers up his spine. A moment passed before he asked,
"Lady, do not beat around the bush. I have no need of you. Tell me what you mean and why my life is in your hands. What is it that you want?"
"Truly, Captain, I am no villain. All I ask is this; if my answer saves your life, you must grant me a knight to wed."
Horrified, Galahad's face turned white. His entire body seemed to have frozen while his mind was whirling a million objections. He would most certainly rather die than have this monstrosity as his wife. The longer he stared at her the larger the urge to just stab himself with his own sword became. The witch (Galahad deemed her as one) sniggered most terrifyingly before continuing,
"It is not you whom I want, good but old sir. His name is Sir Borus. You must promise me this, or you will lose your head."
Although relieved, Galahad felt his heart being squashed. He could not allow Borus to suffer with this...woman because of him, but this was the only way to save his head. 'Dear Lord, this cannot be happening...' Depressed, the captain replied,
"I cannot promise you, fair lady, that I will order Sir Borus to wed as that all depends on him. However, I shall try and tell him of my dilemma."
"Then go now, good sir, and ask him nicely. Though I am foul, I am still a woman, with needs. Borus is the one now who can save you, or kill you."
With that the woman reached up and used her claw-like fingers to scratch her hair, from where dust-like mass started to fall out. Disgusted, Galahad's heart fell, as he knew Borus wouldn't say no to this request, but how could he allow his loyal comrade and trusted friend to wed such a unsightly, lusty woman? There was nothing uglier than her, yet he would be giving her to Borus. 'What am I to do?'
"This is the only chance you get. You shall meet me here alone with your answer in two days. Now farewell, Captain."
"Wait. Pray tell, what is your name?"
"I am commonly known as The White Hag. Good day, sir."
Without waiting for a response from Galahad, the White Hag put her cloak back on and rode away. The captain's heart sunk even further. This was even sadder news. He was to blame for all this. He should have left the deer alone. It was all too late for regrets now. He just wished Borus would refuse.
***
Borus sat there, his face blank while his mind was filled with running thoughts. Why did she choose him to marry? Why not Percival? He had broken so many hearts that he deserved to be punished. No, that was not the point. Percival was better at satisfying women and had more experience. Or Salome, though old, he was still strong. Or anyone. Marriage was the last thing Borus had in mind yet here he was, being asked to wed to save his captain. 'WHY ME???'
However, a knight has his duties. Borus would never let anything bad befall his commander if he could prevent it, even if it means losing his chastity to the ugliest thing on earth. Galahad was like a second father to him, having looked after him all these years and teaching him everything needed to be a noble knight. He would save him, regardless the consequences. Taking back control of his rational self, Borus said,
"Captain, I shall wed her and wed her again if necessary, even if she is a Lizardfolk or uglier than one. I would wed her, I swear, or I would not be your friend. You have been kind to me, sir, thus I will not hesitate to save your life. 'Tis my duty."
Galahad was once again touched by the words of this brave young knight. Feeling his eyes warming, Galahad asked once again,
"...Are you sure, Borus? This White Hag said that her answer would save me, but in return she wants you. Alas! She is the foulest creature I have ever seen!"
'That...isn't very comforting...' Borus had better assure both his captain and himself before his resolve collapsed.
"This will not stop me, sir. Rest assured that I will wed her no matter how ugly she is."
Just then Borus felt himself lunging forward as Galahad pulled him into a warm hug.
"Oh thank you Borus! You are the best knight I have ever found. You have saved my life and reputation and for that, I will never stop honoring you."
_____________________________
Two days later, Galahad rode off to give his answer to the White Hag as well as Jimba. Borus wanted to come along, but it wasn't allowed. Thus he settled for praying for all to go well.
Not long had he ridden down the path when he met the White Hag.
"Good day, Captain! I can see you've come with good news."
"Now, tell me your answer and save my life, and Sir Borus will wed you. He has made that promise and you shall have your desire. Therefore tell me the answer quickly."
Galahad may have sounded rude, but he was extremely displeased with the wretched woman's smirk. The White Hag sighed and said,
"I shall now tell you what women want most from all men. Some say we desire to be beautiful, or pleasure in bed, or many husbands, or money and jewelry, but you just don't understand. We want something entirely different. We want full control of our lives, sovereignty and power over men. 'Tis is what we desire. Now go, good sir, and tell that man what I have told you. Your life now is safe in all ways, this I promise."
_____________________________
Galahad rode fast and far to the place of meeting. Sure enough, Jimba had been waiting for him at the same spot with an eager look on his face. When he asked for an answer, Galahad showed him the books of answers in which Borus and he had collected from their journey. Having looked through the last page, Jimba shook his head and said,
"No, Captain. All these answers do not suit her. You are a dead man."
'Suit who? Is your question not referring to all women in general?' Galahad decided not to pursue that matter and prepared his final answer.
"Wait, Sir Jimba. I have one last answer."
"Hurry and say it then, Captain, or you'll suffer a painful death."
Jimba was now quite annoyed, as he still did not know what 'she' would want.
"I have the true answer here, though a heavy price was paid. What women desire most is sovereignty. They want to rule over even the most powerful of men. Only then will they be happy."
Jimba's eyebrows shot up. Why didn't he think of that? But of course! How could the chief of a big clan like Karaya settle for anything lesser than power and control? Indeed, that was very much like 'her'. Satisfied with the answer, Jimba smirked,
"Thus a true answer indeed. The one who gave you that answer must be wise and fair."
'Hardly...' Galahad thought dryly. Nevertheless, that answer saved his life and Jimba left, his mind running with ideas to win his lady's heart.
Galahad turned around relieved, mentally warning himself never to let such a foolish mistake happen again, and headed back home when he met the White Hag at the exact same spot she was earlier. His heart stopped for a moment. She ignored the expression on his face and beamed,
"Captain Galahad, I am glad we have won! I have kept my end of the bargain and now it is your turn. Sir Borus must marry me, good sir, just as you promised."
______________
To be continued~