Disclaimer: I don't own Mutant X or any of the characters.
~* Chapter 3 *~
Sir Jesse prepared himself to make a pass against Sir Philip. Both knights sped toward each other lowering their blunted lances. After passing and making contact, the two remained on their horses. Lady Emma watched with baited breath. They turned for a second pass, but this time Sir Jesse's lance landed over Sir Philip's heart, knocking Sir Philip to the ground.
The crowd roared and as Sir Jesse strode passed the maidens he removed his helmet, made eye contact with Lady Emma and kissed her handkerchief which he was now holding in his hand.
Now Sir Brennan and Sir Hector were ready to begin. At the signal they dashed off each determined to unseat the other. Sir Brennan's lance struck with such force that lightning from heaven seemed to come forth from it. The crowed gasped, as Sir Hector appeared to fly from his horse, landing on his back, momentarily stunned.
Thinking he had seriously hurt the knight, Sir Brennan jumped his steed over the barrier and quickly approached the spot where Hector had fallen. Dismounting and seeing the knight was unharmed Sir Brennan extended a hand and helped the knight to his feet. Applause of admiration rose quickly from the crowd.
Lady Shalimar found herself standing at the edge of their platform actually wondering about this mysterious new knight. He had definitely captured her interest.
The crowd became silent as they prepared for the final joust. Sir Jesse and Sir Brennan received new lances and prepared to charge. Within moments they were rushing toward each other, lances lowered, bodies braced and heads down. Contact was made, lightning flashed and yet both riders remained upon their mounts.
They turned and charged again. This time Sir Jesse's lance cracked and broke against Sir Brennan's armor and again they were both seated.
Disbelief spread across the faces of every maiden.
Returning to the ends of the field, Sir Jesse was given a new lance. Each knight resumed his starting position and spurred on his horse faster and with more determination than before. As their distance closed each tightened his grip on his lance handle and braced it as they leaned forward anticipating the impending contact.
Upon impact, both horses reared and kicked their front legs high in the air throwing both riders to the ground. A gasp was heard as if by everyone in unison.
Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse both rose to face Lord Adam. "I declare this tournament at an end. My lords and ladies, my I present our victors, Sir Jesse and Sir Brennan." Cheers arose as the two knights approached each other, shook hands, bowed before Lord Adam and turned to the maiden platform.
All the maidens tossed flowers, as the knights bowed low before them.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Adam was sitting next to Shalimar in the lab, holding her hand. They were taking turns staying with her watching for any changes in her condition. All had been quite. Suddenly there was slight movement. Adam could swear he had heard her gasp. With hope fueled he began speaking to her again.
"Shalimar? Shalimar? Shalimar, can you hear me?
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
"Shalimar? Shalimar? Shalimar, can you hear me?" Lord Adam called from the door to his daughter's room. She had been gazing out of the window thinking about the tournament and the strange new knight who was so handsome and gallant.
Shalimar turned suddenly when she felt a hand on her shoulder. "Oh, father, you startled me."
"I'm sorry, my dear. You did not hear me calling. What is it that has you troubled so?" There was concern in his eyes for he loved his daughters greatly and would give his kingdom for their happiness.
"Oh father," She said smiling. "I'm not troubled. I was just thinking about the events of the day."
Relieved he asked, "You enjoyed the tournament?"
"Yes, very much. All of the knights were splendid."
"Was their one in particular who drew your attention?" he asked raising an eyebrow.
"Father." She blushed and looked away.
Taking his daughter's hand he smiled. "I may be older and beyond my prime but I can still recognize attraction. I saw the way you looked at him when he bowed to the maidens."
Throwing her arms around her father, she declared, "You are very much still in your prime. I love you, father."
"And I you, dear daughter. Come let us go the banquet." Turning to walk out the door he looked at his daughter. "He has captured your interest, hasn't he?"
"Faatherr!" was all she said as they left the room arm in arm.
The Great Hall was brimming with guests all gaily dressed in their finest with royal robes and sparkling adornments. Music filled the air. There were many wooden tables set in rows of five, each with a variety of different foods. One table, though, was set at the head of all the others on a small platform. On this table were seated the knights who jousted with Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse seated in the center with three empty seats between them.
A trumpet sounded and all arose as Lord Adam entered the hall with his two beautiful daughters on his arms. Everyone clapped and cheered as the host went to his place and bowed to the assembly.
Lady Emma smiled as she approached her place. Sir Jesse took her hand and gently kissed it before she was seated.
Sir Brennan bowed to Lady Shalimar as he held her chair for her. *So gallant,* she thought
"Honored guests, we celebrate tonight the valiant knights you see before you. On behalf of my daughters, Lady Shalimar and Lady Emma, I bid thee welcome." Lord Adam took his seat and food and drink were served to all.
During dinner Lady Emma was grateful for the opportunity to speak with Sir Jesse. "You defeated many knights at the tournament today. Were you not hurt?"
Taking her hand once again he kissed it and said, "Even a moment by your side, hearing your voice is enough to sooth away any discomfort." She was hopelessly lost, melting in the gaze of his gorgeous blue eyes.
Meanwhile, Lady Shalimar spoke quietly with her father and made sure the needs of his guests were met, dutifully fulfilling her role as the woman of the house. (Her mother had died a few years before, leaving her father feeling incomplete, for he had loved her more than anything in life. Now he had his beautiful daughters who were determined to do all they could to fill at least part of the emptiness in his heart. He loved them dearly, for they each displayed qualities of their mother, which made him feel as if she were still with him.)
Through the evening Sir Brennan continually fought the urge to stare at his hostess. She was indeed the most beautiful maiden he had ever seen. Once, she met his gaze and he quickly looked away hoping she had not noticed his obsession with her.
After dinner as everyone mingled around the room, Sir Jesse was introducing Sir Brennan to the other knights. When they were alone Sir Brennan asked, "Pray thee, tell me if you know is my lady betrothed?"
"My Lady Emma, is indeed betrothed... to me." He answered with a grin, knowing that she was not of whom he spoke.
"My admiration and congratulations, Lady Emma is indeed beautiful."
"As for Lady Shalimar," Sir Jesse continued, "her heart has yet to be won." Sir Jesse saw a look of relief and challenge cross Sir Brennan's face. "Come and allow me to introduce you."
Eagerly Sir Brennan followed Sir Jesse to the area where Lord Adam and his daughters now stood.
"Lord Adam," said Sir Jesse.
"Ahh, Sir Jesse," replied Lord Adam. "and Sir Brennan, are you enjoying the feast?"
"Very much so, my lord." Sir Brennan smiled and couldn't help gazing at Lady Shalimar.
Seeing the knight's attention drawn to his eldest daughter, Lord Adam offered, "Allow me to introduce the Lady Shalimar..."
Sir Brennan humbly took her extended hand and raised it to his lips gently kissing it as he bowed.
"...And the Lady Emma."
Reluctantly releasing his gaze from Lady Shalimar, Sir Brennan turned and excepted Lady Emma's extended hand in the same manner.
Lord Adam turned aside as another knight begged his attention.
Sir Brennan dared to speak. "Did my lady enjoy the tournament this day?"
"I was greatly impressed by the skill and valor displayed on the field."
"My lady is too kind."
"Not at all. You, Sir Knight and Sir Jesse well deserve the honor my father has given you." Lady Shalimar replied, averting her eyes from his entrancing gaze.
Sir Brennan smiled as he gazed at this vision before him. She was as beautiful as a delicate flower, yet confident and sure.
Lady Emma and Sir Jesse had been standing by watching them. Lady Emma squeezed Sir Jesse's hand as she saw her sister blush.
Sir Brennan was about to speak again when there was a sound like great thunder behind him.
Suddenly there was a cloud of black smoke and a haunting laugh. Silence filled the room as the unexpected visitor spoke. "Ahh, my lord." Ashlocke the sorcerer took a mocked bow.
All the knights quickly gathered to the center of the room surrounding the unwelcome intruder. The sorcerer was dressed in black robes with a dagger hanging at his side, an amulet around his neck and a staff in his hand.
Lady Emma and Lady Shalimar moved quickly to their father's side.
Lord Adam stepped forward grimly and said, "Sorcerer. What need do you have that you come from you're evil castle and put a dark cloud on this joyous night?"
"I know of your desire to wed your daughters and but have the need to find suit for the eldest. I have come to ask for her hand in marriage." He said as he gazed longingly at Lady Shalimar.
She stepped back in horror at the thought of being united to such evil and angered for being made to sound undesirable. Her father put a protective arm in front of her. "Never will I agree to give you one of my daughters."
Slowly the sorcerer moved toward Lord Adam, glaring at him with defiance.
Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse immediately stepped between them. With a look of nuisance, Ashlocke merely spread his hands through the air and with unseen power threw both knights in opposite directions.
In a low determined voice, dripping with venom he declared, "I will have...the Lady Shalimar... as my bride." In one swift move he pushed Lord Adam aside and quickly grabbed Lady Shalimar's arm and pulled her to him.
Every knight lunged forward, but stopped when they saw the staff in his hand turn into a fiery red and yellow serpent and coil around the Lady's shoulders. "Take not another step, or my pet shall be the death of your fair maiden!" The serpent slithered around Lady Shalimar's neck, threatening to strike and kill her at any moment.
Lady Shalimar was frozen with fear. Her tear filled eyes moved from her father, to her sister and then rested on Sir Brennan who had quickly returned. She could see the concern he held as he watched this creature weave his evil plan.
"Sorcerer, I shall give thee anything thy heart desires if you will only let my daughter go." Lord Adam said.
"There is nothing my heart desires more than the willing hand of this fair maiden. I will convince her of our destiny." The sorcerer answered as he kissed the hand he now held. "Look upon your dear daughter one last time for you shall not see her again. Though, if it is any comfort, I give my word she shall not be harmed. Farewell!" The sorcerer threw a small vile that broke and surrounded him and Lady Shalimar in another cloud of black smoke.
The people gasped in fear when the smoke cleared. The sorcerer and Lady Shalimar were gone.
~*~**evil laugh* Don't worry, I'll get Chapter 4 up soon.*~*~
~* Chapter 3 *~
Sir Jesse prepared himself to make a pass against Sir Philip. Both knights sped toward each other lowering their blunted lances. After passing and making contact, the two remained on their horses. Lady Emma watched with baited breath. They turned for a second pass, but this time Sir Jesse's lance landed over Sir Philip's heart, knocking Sir Philip to the ground.
The crowd roared and as Sir Jesse strode passed the maidens he removed his helmet, made eye contact with Lady Emma and kissed her handkerchief which he was now holding in his hand.
Now Sir Brennan and Sir Hector were ready to begin. At the signal they dashed off each determined to unseat the other. Sir Brennan's lance struck with such force that lightning from heaven seemed to come forth from it. The crowed gasped, as Sir Hector appeared to fly from his horse, landing on his back, momentarily stunned.
Thinking he had seriously hurt the knight, Sir Brennan jumped his steed over the barrier and quickly approached the spot where Hector had fallen. Dismounting and seeing the knight was unharmed Sir Brennan extended a hand and helped the knight to his feet. Applause of admiration rose quickly from the crowd.
Lady Shalimar found herself standing at the edge of their platform actually wondering about this mysterious new knight. He had definitely captured her interest.
The crowd became silent as they prepared for the final joust. Sir Jesse and Sir Brennan received new lances and prepared to charge. Within moments they were rushing toward each other, lances lowered, bodies braced and heads down. Contact was made, lightning flashed and yet both riders remained upon their mounts.
They turned and charged again. This time Sir Jesse's lance cracked and broke against Sir Brennan's armor and again they were both seated.
Disbelief spread across the faces of every maiden.
Returning to the ends of the field, Sir Jesse was given a new lance. Each knight resumed his starting position and spurred on his horse faster and with more determination than before. As their distance closed each tightened his grip on his lance handle and braced it as they leaned forward anticipating the impending contact.
Upon impact, both horses reared and kicked their front legs high in the air throwing both riders to the ground. A gasp was heard as if by everyone in unison.
Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse both rose to face Lord Adam. "I declare this tournament at an end. My lords and ladies, my I present our victors, Sir Jesse and Sir Brennan." Cheers arose as the two knights approached each other, shook hands, bowed before Lord Adam and turned to the maiden platform.
All the maidens tossed flowers, as the knights bowed low before them.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Adam was sitting next to Shalimar in the lab, holding her hand. They were taking turns staying with her watching for any changes in her condition. All had been quite. Suddenly there was slight movement. Adam could swear he had heard her gasp. With hope fueled he began speaking to her again.
"Shalimar? Shalimar? Shalimar, can you hear me?
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
"Shalimar? Shalimar? Shalimar, can you hear me?" Lord Adam called from the door to his daughter's room. She had been gazing out of the window thinking about the tournament and the strange new knight who was so handsome and gallant.
Shalimar turned suddenly when she felt a hand on her shoulder. "Oh, father, you startled me."
"I'm sorry, my dear. You did not hear me calling. What is it that has you troubled so?" There was concern in his eyes for he loved his daughters greatly and would give his kingdom for their happiness.
"Oh father," She said smiling. "I'm not troubled. I was just thinking about the events of the day."
Relieved he asked, "You enjoyed the tournament?"
"Yes, very much. All of the knights were splendid."
"Was their one in particular who drew your attention?" he asked raising an eyebrow.
"Father." She blushed and looked away.
Taking his daughter's hand he smiled. "I may be older and beyond my prime but I can still recognize attraction. I saw the way you looked at him when he bowed to the maidens."
Throwing her arms around her father, she declared, "You are very much still in your prime. I love you, father."
"And I you, dear daughter. Come let us go the banquet." Turning to walk out the door he looked at his daughter. "He has captured your interest, hasn't he?"
"Faatherr!" was all she said as they left the room arm in arm.
The Great Hall was brimming with guests all gaily dressed in their finest with royal robes and sparkling adornments. Music filled the air. There were many wooden tables set in rows of five, each with a variety of different foods. One table, though, was set at the head of all the others on a small platform. On this table were seated the knights who jousted with Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse seated in the center with three empty seats between them.
A trumpet sounded and all arose as Lord Adam entered the hall with his two beautiful daughters on his arms. Everyone clapped and cheered as the host went to his place and bowed to the assembly.
Lady Emma smiled as she approached her place. Sir Jesse took her hand and gently kissed it before she was seated.
Sir Brennan bowed to Lady Shalimar as he held her chair for her. *So gallant,* she thought
"Honored guests, we celebrate tonight the valiant knights you see before you. On behalf of my daughters, Lady Shalimar and Lady Emma, I bid thee welcome." Lord Adam took his seat and food and drink were served to all.
During dinner Lady Emma was grateful for the opportunity to speak with Sir Jesse. "You defeated many knights at the tournament today. Were you not hurt?"
Taking her hand once again he kissed it and said, "Even a moment by your side, hearing your voice is enough to sooth away any discomfort." She was hopelessly lost, melting in the gaze of his gorgeous blue eyes.
Meanwhile, Lady Shalimar spoke quietly with her father and made sure the needs of his guests were met, dutifully fulfilling her role as the woman of the house. (Her mother had died a few years before, leaving her father feeling incomplete, for he had loved her more than anything in life. Now he had his beautiful daughters who were determined to do all they could to fill at least part of the emptiness in his heart. He loved them dearly, for they each displayed qualities of their mother, which made him feel as if she were still with him.)
Through the evening Sir Brennan continually fought the urge to stare at his hostess. She was indeed the most beautiful maiden he had ever seen. Once, she met his gaze and he quickly looked away hoping she had not noticed his obsession with her.
After dinner as everyone mingled around the room, Sir Jesse was introducing Sir Brennan to the other knights. When they were alone Sir Brennan asked, "Pray thee, tell me if you know is my lady betrothed?"
"My Lady Emma, is indeed betrothed... to me." He answered with a grin, knowing that she was not of whom he spoke.
"My admiration and congratulations, Lady Emma is indeed beautiful."
"As for Lady Shalimar," Sir Jesse continued, "her heart has yet to be won." Sir Jesse saw a look of relief and challenge cross Sir Brennan's face. "Come and allow me to introduce you."
Eagerly Sir Brennan followed Sir Jesse to the area where Lord Adam and his daughters now stood.
"Lord Adam," said Sir Jesse.
"Ahh, Sir Jesse," replied Lord Adam. "and Sir Brennan, are you enjoying the feast?"
"Very much so, my lord." Sir Brennan smiled and couldn't help gazing at Lady Shalimar.
Seeing the knight's attention drawn to his eldest daughter, Lord Adam offered, "Allow me to introduce the Lady Shalimar..."
Sir Brennan humbly took her extended hand and raised it to his lips gently kissing it as he bowed.
"...And the Lady Emma."
Reluctantly releasing his gaze from Lady Shalimar, Sir Brennan turned and excepted Lady Emma's extended hand in the same manner.
Lord Adam turned aside as another knight begged his attention.
Sir Brennan dared to speak. "Did my lady enjoy the tournament this day?"
"I was greatly impressed by the skill and valor displayed on the field."
"My lady is too kind."
"Not at all. You, Sir Knight and Sir Jesse well deserve the honor my father has given you." Lady Shalimar replied, averting her eyes from his entrancing gaze.
Sir Brennan smiled as he gazed at this vision before him. She was as beautiful as a delicate flower, yet confident and sure.
Lady Emma and Sir Jesse had been standing by watching them. Lady Emma squeezed Sir Jesse's hand as she saw her sister blush.
Sir Brennan was about to speak again when there was a sound like great thunder behind him.
Suddenly there was a cloud of black smoke and a haunting laugh. Silence filled the room as the unexpected visitor spoke. "Ahh, my lord." Ashlocke the sorcerer took a mocked bow.
All the knights quickly gathered to the center of the room surrounding the unwelcome intruder. The sorcerer was dressed in black robes with a dagger hanging at his side, an amulet around his neck and a staff in his hand.
Lady Emma and Lady Shalimar moved quickly to their father's side.
Lord Adam stepped forward grimly and said, "Sorcerer. What need do you have that you come from you're evil castle and put a dark cloud on this joyous night?"
"I know of your desire to wed your daughters and but have the need to find suit for the eldest. I have come to ask for her hand in marriage." He said as he gazed longingly at Lady Shalimar.
She stepped back in horror at the thought of being united to such evil and angered for being made to sound undesirable. Her father put a protective arm in front of her. "Never will I agree to give you one of my daughters."
Slowly the sorcerer moved toward Lord Adam, glaring at him with defiance.
Sir Brennan and Sir Jesse immediately stepped between them. With a look of nuisance, Ashlocke merely spread his hands through the air and with unseen power threw both knights in opposite directions.
In a low determined voice, dripping with venom he declared, "I will have...the Lady Shalimar... as my bride." In one swift move he pushed Lord Adam aside and quickly grabbed Lady Shalimar's arm and pulled her to him.
Every knight lunged forward, but stopped when they saw the staff in his hand turn into a fiery red and yellow serpent and coil around the Lady's shoulders. "Take not another step, or my pet shall be the death of your fair maiden!" The serpent slithered around Lady Shalimar's neck, threatening to strike and kill her at any moment.
Lady Shalimar was frozen with fear. Her tear filled eyes moved from her father, to her sister and then rested on Sir Brennan who had quickly returned. She could see the concern he held as he watched this creature weave his evil plan.
"Sorcerer, I shall give thee anything thy heart desires if you will only let my daughter go." Lord Adam said.
"There is nothing my heart desires more than the willing hand of this fair maiden. I will convince her of our destiny." The sorcerer answered as he kissed the hand he now held. "Look upon your dear daughter one last time for you shall not see her again. Though, if it is any comfort, I give my word she shall not be harmed. Farewell!" The sorcerer threw a small vile that broke and surrounded him and Lady Shalimar in another cloud of black smoke.
The people gasped in fear when the smoke cleared. The sorcerer and Lady Shalimar were gone.
~*~**evil laugh* Don't worry, I'll get Chapter 4 up soon.*~*~