Disclaimer: I don't own anything KoH related; movie rights belong to 20th Century Fox and the great Sir Ridley Scott. Although I wish I owned Balian!

Again, a big thank you to all my reviewers:

Nevasaiel: Heh heh, two great minds think alike! I enjoyed writing it. ;)

Kelly: Thanks, I did want my fic to go in a different direction than the movie and I'm glad that you liked it!

Tasmaniantiger: I'm glad that it intrigues you. (I try)

Jellemegg: Of course he does, he's Balian! And always he follows his oath, because he's noble like that. Admit it, he was hot in KoH!

RedCloudPhoenix: The bit with the son was completely omitted from the movie. I'm pretty sure that it will be back in the DVD. Along with the you-know-what!

Rachel Sparrow: You'll find out in this chapter who those men were!

Ch. 4: Let the scheming begin!

The next morning, four templar knights led two ragged men to a small, abandoned hut within the walls of Jerusalem. Once inside, the two unkempt men threw their hoods off, sat at the uneven table, and smirked at each other.

The dark haired one spoke. "I congratulate you, my brothers. Not only did you not abandon us, but you have successfully snuck us back into the city. You will be rewarded for your loyalty." The knights nodded their thanks. "Now we must begin to plan our revenge and our ascent back into positions of power. Any suggestions, Reynald?"

The huge man stroked his beard as he replied, "We will need to get word to the templars that we've returned. We'll definitely need their support if we are to succeed."

"Very good," answered Guy. One of the templars told him that he'd be honored to deliver their message straightaway. Guy nodded and the knight quickly left, promising to return soon.

"I also wish to be rid of Balian. He will cause trouble for us if left alive. He must be killed!" he roared, banging his fist on the table.

"That's not only why," Reynald said knowingly. "You want him dead because your wife outsmarted you, and chose him over you. If she marries Balian, he'll become the next king of Jerusalem." Guy gritted his teeth in irritation and motioned to one of the three knights.

"You, come here!" One man stepped forward. "I have a little assignment for you. It is crucial that it is completed on the first try – that means no mistakes!"

"I will serve you, my lord," the knight dutifully answered.

"Of course you will! Now, here's what you need to do." He whispered instructions into the man's ear.

"It will be done, my lord, the knight promised as he prepared to leave.

"Just remember, do not leave the palace until you are positive that he's dead. Bring me his ring as proof. If you fail, don't bother coming back," said Guy, with unhidden malice. The second knight went on his way.

"I'm famished! We need some nourishment," whined Reynald. "We should send the remaining two into the marketplace to bring back food!"

"You're right," Guy agreed. "You two!" he yelled at the templars. But they paid no attention, as they were caught up in a fist fight. "Stop that and pay attention."

"Sorry, m'lord, but Henri gave me a black eye." The other bristled and defended himself. "But you started it, Gerard." Guy sighed and ignored this.

"It is now your duty to go to market and buy some food for us – enough to last for at least a week. We don't know how long we'll be staying here." He handed Gerard a bag of coins to use.

"We have to sleep here!" Gerard said in mock indignation. "But there are only three beds. I get the third bed!"

"No I do!" yelled Henri. Guy saw another fight brewing.

"If you don't shut up you BOTH will be sleeping on the floor. Now go!" When all they gave him were blank stares, Guy and Reynald rolled their eyes. "Now gentlemen, focus." Guy repeated his instructions.

"We understand m'lords," said Gerard, his head nodding vigorously. Apparently, Henri did not.

"Can we just buy desserts, or do we have to buy other foods?" Exasperated, Reynald told them to buy a little bit of everything. The dull-witted knights finally left, with Henri waving goofily. He shouted over his shoulder, "Are we supposed to come back?" Guy screamed, "YES, YOU IDIOT!" He stopped to catch his breath. "And the marketplace would be that way," he shouted, pointing left while the knights reversed their direction. Reynald shook his head, "I could use a nap."

"Best idea you've had all morning, my friend," Guy agreed.

Sorry it's so short, the next one will be longer.