A/N: I updated twice in a day! (I'm a MONSTER, rawr!) Well, to tell you the truth, this was originally part of Chapter 35, but then I thought the ending to that was better than just jumbling all these things up. But wow-wee, you guys reply fast! I LIKE IT! Keeeep it comin'! It makes me happy. Thank you all!
Alright, I made the "MY KNIGHT" OC CHARACTER COLLAGE! I hope I didn't miss any important-ish characters! .scratches head. I missed Aiden and Isabella when I first started! lmao Silly me. Anyway, the link to the image is on my profile page under "Currently writing". It's a nice, blue link, so you won't miss it! But if for some reason it doesn't work and you still want to see how my OCs look like, let me know and I'll personally send you the link/image! Hope you guys like it and that it helps you picture the characters a little better! Definitely, if this was a movie, these actors/actresses would be AWESOME for the roles!
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Jenni: You make a really good point. I mean, we all act foolish when we're hurt, right? And he's angry because he loves her, which makes total sense. Anyway, here's another chapter! Enjoy!
DeathDealer210912: Man, why does love have to hurt so much? Geeze.
Kates: I know what you mean. I wouldn't know how to react if that happened to me. Lourdes friggen rocks. And even if Lancelot did try to hurt her, I'm pretty sure she can hold her own!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I work incredibly hard on this story, it's not even funny. You wouldn't believe the revisions and editing I go through! Which explains why I update so slowly. But I'd rather have something good for people to read than rush the story completely and have garbage!
Again, he's a man. haha I just love playing with the fact that even if two people love each other so much and it's so evident, they still won't take it. They're still afraid of being hurt, when all they do is hurt each other anyway.
Oh man, Tristan is the greatest character. He can make me laugh as hard as Bors, and the beauty of it is he doesn't even try!
Ahhh, I can't wait for your art! And yep, the cast list link is up on my profile page. I also love doing that because it helps me picture the characters, their movements, facial expressions, etc., so it will help with their dialogue and characterization as well. And we ARE cool! Enjoy this chapter!
Kalanie: hahahah Oh my gosh, I'm giggling so hard. I seriously want to join you and stick Lancelot repeatedly! (First, I'd just poke him a little bit, then really start whacking him...ohhhh yeahhhh.) The "Torture Lancelot Now!" fanclub is now in session.
I love writing about Lourdes' relationship with each of the knights! I would have written sooo much more, but then, this story would be like a million words. Eep. And as for Tristan, that was TOTALLY it! Man, he's so cool! But here's another chapter for you. And I will bring a mop and bucket to clean up Lancelot's blood after you've beaten him up! haha
delusional anvil.: I should change the title to this story to "The Truth About Men". You can tell evolution hasn't really affected them when it comes to love, eh?
I love the fact that my writing can affect your moods. That really means a lot! And for sure, I'll continue to keep writing so that that will keep happening!
haha You see? Told you there will be more Tristan! I have plans for him, so watch out for that! .wink wink.
Yeaaah, Paramore is great! That was the kind of band I wanted to make. But...nope, we sucked. I actually just started to play the guitar again, so we'll see where that takes me. My fingers have blisters on 'em after that practice, so it hurts to type! .frowns.
And yeah man, I can't believe I'm in the 30's with the chapters. I estimate this story to be about 55 - 60 chapters by the time I'm done, since I still have a lot of ideas floating around. But alas, here's another chapter! Enjoy!
Withered Lover: HAHAHA Oh my God. I would pay to see you trip Lancelot and have him eat some snow! Then Kalanie can come from behind and beat him senseless with her stick.
Yep, I'm alright. That accident didn't even phase me. I think I'm desensitized or something!
And yaye for pics! Tell me what you think of them (and if I missed anyone semi-important!) I would love for you to make a community for this! I want to see how many people like this story!
I just finished my work term, so I have plenty of time to work on this story now! YAAAYE! I'll keep writing so that I can make you speechless! haha Yeah man, that's so true about us Flips. My "talkativeness" is through the computer, so I type a lot of words instead of saying 'em! Here's another chappy, my lovely!
Props also go out to: Arabelle James, Fallen Ashes, Gerdie, Raging Raven, ZELINA, i heart coffee, janell, jubes-zcg, makedamnsure, mangoskin93, xOxO.rOmance, HateFilled-Demon, Jane-MC, Lady of Trebond, cleopatra32003, kdawn7, tvfanatic64
...and to anyone else reading this!
This story is gaining fans. I like it.
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"MY KNIGHT" ' SOUNDTRACK' #4
1. Emergency – Paramore
2. Call Me When You're Sober – Evanescence
3. Echo – Trapt
4. Lost in a Portrait – Trapt
5. Pills – The Perishers
6. Pretty Girl – Sugarcult
7. Work - Jimmy Eat World
8. There You'll Be – Faith Hill
9. Miami – Taking Back Sunday
10. Pour Toi – Jenifer
11. The Grace - Neverending White Lights
12. Torn - Natalie Imbruglia
13. Only One - Yellowcard
14. Burn - Usher
15. Kill - Jimmy Eat World
16. You'll Think Of Me - Keith Urban
17. Louder Than Words - Unsung Zeroes
18. Circles - Endo
19. Breakaway - Kelly Clarkson
20. Everything You Want - Vertical Horizon
21. Right Here Waiting - Richard Marx
22. Now and Forever - Richard Marx
23. At The Beginning - Richard Marx and Donna Lewis
24. Truly, Madly, Deeply - Savage Garden
25. Destiny - Martina McBride and Jim Brickman
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CHAPTER 36
Winter had begun to come to a close, most of the snow and ice melting away, dripping from the rooftops, trees, and statues. The newcomers were glad of this, for now, they would be able to see Kenji in all of its beauty and magnificence, even heightening their experience of the Shinodian culture. Arthur and the rest of the knights had spent the next couple of weeks adjusting to the Shinodian way of life, participating in their daily events and practicing their customs. Their daily schedules were indeed quite different from that which they were used to in Sarmatia. Everyone woke at dawn to begin their daily duties, and all of the warriors began their daily training not long afterwards. It was after they had lived this lifestyle for only two days that they realized the sheer discipline that these Shinodian warriors, even Shinodian commoners, undergo -- even Lourdes and Lucas themselves.
Lord Theodore's knights surprisingly took to this adjustment well, and even Lord Theodore was rendered speechless by this. He, as a matter of fact, had kept his loose tongue and haughty nature under control, even attending some of the Shinodian festivities as well. Even though he was still somewhat bitter about what had happened with the Shinodian incursions, he gave in to reason and realized that these were not the Shinodians to blame. Fortunately for him, he finally learned to manage his aggression, also reminding himself that he would be greatly outnumbered if he tried anything belligerent towards the Shinodians. Rightly so, he stayed away from Lourdes and the royal castle, moving about Kenji as inconspicuously as possible, avoiding a confrontation with her at all costs.
Out of all of the knights, Tristan was the one who mostly grew fond of the Shinodian culture, especially their art of war. He practiced with the warriors daily with much discipline, taking in everything that they offered to teach him, learning all that he could from them in as little time as possible. He was willingly influenced by it all - their lifestyle, techniques and philosophy. Most of the knights found this quite amusing, for they knew that there was simply no better way to make Tristan content than by teaching him how to effectively kill someone!
It was another languid day for the knights. Bors, Dagonet and Gawain sat together upon the courtyard steps, contentedly observing the kendo stick practice that about two dozen wariors were participating in -- including their very own Tristan! They watched with much interest as their fellow knight moved with much dexterity and grace, surprised that he had adopted much Shinodian technique in his own.
"Tristan has taken quite a liking to the Shinodian art of war, hasn't he?" Gawain commented lightly, watching intently as his comrade continuously and successfully blocked oncoming blows. He felt such awe, and even pride, at the fast-paced learning that Tristan has exhibited and continues to exhibit.
"Yes, quite." agreed Dagonet, taking a bite of his apple as he shifted his eyes slightly. "Just as Lancelot has taken quite a liking to the women!"
The three shared a jovial laugh as Bors spoke, "Well, the women have certainly warmed up to 'im quite nicely. Everytime I'm with 'im and we're walkin' 'round, some new wench giggles at the sight of 'im." He made a face and sound filled with distaste, wagging a finger at the two of them knowingly. "I'm tellin' ye, lads, that Lancey of ours knows witchcraft. I do not know how he does this...thing...to women!"
"Speaking of women..." Gawain squinted his eyes in disbelief, rising slowly at the sight before him. "Is Tristan fighting with a woman?"
All three knights stood up at this, walking closer towards the courtyard for a better look. Stopping just a few yards away from Tristan and Akira, they raised their eyebrows in wonder, looking around at one another.
"Yep, 'tis a woman, alright." Dagonet replied with a nod, crossing his large arms across his chest.
"Well, I'll be damned!" exclaimed Gawain suddenly, slightly startling the brothers. "Bloody hell, Tristan smiled!"
Bors snorted and waved a dismissive hand at the bewildered knight. "Bah, yer seein' things. Too much ale in ye."
It was then that they distinctly heard Tristan laugh.
Dagonet dropped the apple that he was holding, mouth agape as the three eyed each other once more, identical incredulous expressions plastered on their countenances. Bors' lips then curled in confusion as Gawain raised an eyebrow.
Gawain finally managed to shut his agape mouth, then stated unsurely, "The world must be ending or something."
"What are you three all gawking at?" Lancelot's voice came suddenly from behind them. He, Gareth and Bedivere walked to their side, the three joining the line of knights as they stood beside Gawain. When none of the three responded, their gazes became fixed on where their eyes were already transfixed. Lancelot and Bedivere automatically tilted their heads slightly to the side, running their eyes up and down Akira's form. Lancelot nudged Bedivere slightly as he smirked, "Well...she's certainly a beauty."
Bedivere gave out a low chuckle and nodded in wholehearted agreement. "I'd gladly take her to my bed."
Hearing this quiet exchange between the two, Bors turned to Lancelot and hissed, "Not her, fool!" He slapped Lancelot's arm, as if in reprimand, then pointed before him. "Tristan!"
Lancelot's face immediately turned into disgust, as did Bedivere's and Gareth's. As if about to wretch, Lancelot grimaced, looking at his three comrades in disbelief as he threw his arms in the air. "Tristan? Have you all gone bloody mad?"
"No, Lancelot." Gawain groaned exasperatedly, shaking his shaggy head profusely as he turned to him. "Tristan just smiled and laughed!"
Lancelot merely scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief as he crossed his arms. "Now, I truly believe that you are all bloody mad."
As the six shared a laugh, they continued to watch the scene before them. The warriors now stood in two lines, each practicing one on one combat. The numerous clacks of the colliding wooden sticks sounded in the air, each fighter immersed in their practice, never losing their concentration on their opponent. Tristan and Akira skirmished with one another with full force, neither showing mercy nor any signs of backing down. As the knights enjoyed this, their attention was then drawn to another figure walking down the courtyard steps just opposite of them.
Recognizing who it was, Lancelot's heart constricted, not having spoken to Lourdes since their confrontation those many nights ago. He felt guilt and remorse, and yet, he would ignore her whenever she passed by or when she was near, giving her the cold shoulder. He would not back down from this. He would not be led to believe that he was the aggressor in all of this, that he was to blame for everything that has happened between them. He had meant when he said that he never loved the women that he had bedded, and he had shown her affection even when he knew that she had feelings for Galahad.
She stopped just beside the edge of the battling warriors, curiously watching their combat. Her passing glance across the area landed on the knights, then Lancelot, but when she recognized him, she immediately looked away and bowed to the other knights instead. Her hair was tied into a high ponytail, the length of it still falling down near her waist. Dark coal lined her eyes, and her lips were the colour of cherries. The knights were surprised to see that she was clad in Shinodian armour. She wore black leggings that were tucked underneath knee-high boots. A protective, skirt-like armour was tied around her waist, protecting her lower section up to above her knees. A large, black belt was wrapped tightly around her waist, just above the top of the skirt-like armour, tucking in a snug, short-sleeved tunic. Her garments definitely emphasized her curves, and most men around her -- especially the knights in the distance -- did not fail to notice this. She did not seem to notice and kept her chin slightly inclined, holding a breastplate underneath her left arm and a katana in her right hand.
As she stepped closer to the practicing warriors, they abruptly stopped, all bowing to her. She nodded her head to them before striding towards their commander.
"Good morning, Akira, Tristan." Lourdes said cheerfully, punching Tristan lightly on the shoulder as she embraced Akira. She cleared her throat, looking at the two alternately with twinkling eyes, teasing, "I see you're both doing well."
Akira gave her a tired look at her blatant insinuation before calling out to a fellow commander. Lourdes recognized him as the leader of the Shinodians that she had first encountered in the woods those many nights ago -- the leader that she felt somewhat indebted to for leading her and her beloved Woadian comrades to Kenji. As he jogged to their sides, she gave him a wide smile. He gave her a bow and a smile in return, then handing her the weapon in his hand. "Your whip, your majesty."
Lourdes' eyes widened as she gingerly took the weapon. Her glance landed back to her friend. "Akira, I thought we were practicing with katanas?"
"We are." Akira shrugged nonchalantly, then smirking at her. "Though I never said we wouldn't practice with whips as well."
Lourdes gulped as the length of the snake-like whip unwinded, the tip touching the ground as she lowered her arm. The knights in the distance eyed each other incredulously, wearing the same expression as she. Lancelot's intense eyes remained transfixed to Lourdes as the knights silently watched the exchange before them.
"Takeo, practice with the princess, please." Akira lightly asked of the warrior, who smiled and nodded curtly. She smirked, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You are more skilled with the whip than I am."
Following the lead of the other warriors, Tristan and Akira resumed their fighting. As Takeo readied his whip, Lourdes bit her lip and hastily placed her breastplate on as she placed her katana on the ground. Following the commander's motion, she and Takeo walked slightly away from the practicing warriors, needing much space for what they were about to practice.
The knights' eyes followed them. Breaking their silence, Bedivere gave out a low whistle, "That is the princess of Shino?"
At this, Bors squinted his eyes in warning at the young knight, pointing a finger dangerously close to his nose. "Watch what ye say about our Lourdes, Bedivere. It might cost ye."
Not at all threatened by this gesture, Bedivere slung an arm around the shorter man, crossing his legs as he stood, slanted. "Am I not allowed to say that a woman that I find attractive is attractive?"
Bors only rolled his eyes and grunted at the cheeky knight as Gareth piped up, "Lourdes, you say? The same woman that participated in the archery contest during Lord Theodore's Tournament?"
"Same one." Gawain nodded, then nudged Lancelot, eyebrows raising repeatedly as he teased, "So have you told her that you love her yet, Lance?"
As all the eyes of the knights landed on him in sheer question and amusement, Lancelot shook his head once. "I do not know what you speak of."
"Come on, Lancelot, we are not as blind as you think we are." Dagonet shook his head, almost in disappointment. He made a face as he said, "Well, Bors is as stupid as you think he is, but..."
Bors shoved his younger brother in annoyance, then turned his attention to Lancelot. "Even if ye cannot see that ye love her, lad, we can."
"Alright, alright, stop teasing him." Gareth placed an arm on Lancelot's shoulder, who remained stiff even as the knights became quiet. "Look, their fight is about to begin."
As their attention drew back to Lourdes and Takeo, both warriors held their whips beside them, eyeing each other briefly.
"Swing at me, your majesty. Have no fear." Takeo instructed cooly, not fearing the impact of the whip. "Flick your wrist."
Lourdes nodded in obedience, finally raising the whip to her right. As she gave her wrist a flick, the whip's tip flew towards Takeo's unarmoured chest, but he blocked it easily as his whip stealthily rose and fell. Lourdes gasped at his dexterity, barely even seeing where his whip had gone. She staggered back a few paces as he freely swung at her, left and right, catching her lower torso at times and even the sides of her thighs. The clank of the whip on her armour worried some of the knights -- especially the tense Lancelot -- as she was cornered onto the courtyard railings. Gritting her teeth, she whirled around, extending her arm as she tried to catch Takeo off-guard. She succeeded, the tip reaching the side of his arm, ripping his tunic.
"Good." he commented with a nod. "Now, go for the lower body."
At this statement, Lourdes immediately squatted low, swinging her arms towards Takeo's legs. The warrior jumped and swung his whip, catching the side of her leg. It automatically wrapped itself around her ankles, and with a simple tug, the warrior sent Lourdes crashing onto the ground with a grunt.
The knights all breathed out and gave out low groans at this.
Fortunately, Lourdes rolled away right before Takeo's whip would have hit her straight on the chest. Breathing out in frustration, she swung her whip in wild desperation in order to block Takeo's oncoming attack. Though, she missed completely, and the whip came down on her face hard, snapping her head to the side. She cried out in pain as blood started to drip down her cheek. Immediately letting go of her whip, she pressed the palm of her hand on the wound, trying desperately to stop the bleeding.
"Get up, princess." Takeo forced himself to say, raising his whip as he swallowed. "Warriors must learn to fight through pain."
Before Takeo's whip could fall on Lourdes once more, a firm hand gripped his arm, and his swing was abruptly stopped. Takeo looked back to see Lancelot's burning eyes, the knight's grip becoming tighter as he said through gritted teeth, "That is enough."
Lowering his arm in acquiesce, Takeo nodded to him quickly before looking down at Lourdes. "I am sorry, your majesty."
"'Tis fine, Takeo. 'Tis part of the training." Lourdes said hoarsely, finding it painful to even talk. "We shall practice again tomorrow." The warrior bowed to her once more in apology and respect before walking off.
It was then that she locked eyes with Lancelot. Not bothering to hide the disdain in her eyes, she ignored his outstretched hand, using her own arms to push herself up. Immediately turning from the knight, she walked briskly back inside the castle, leaving Lancelot in the midst of curious onlookers. A stone expression appearing on the knight's face, he stalked away in the opposite direction, leaving his comrades looking after him in a state of bewilderment.
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A/N: Strike! Try again, Lancelot.
Again, if you want to check out pics of the OCs in this story, just go to my profile page and click the link "OC CHARACTER LIST COLLAGE". Tell me what you think! .winks. Later!