Quick warning: This does get a little dark near the end of the chapter, might be triggering but I am not sure, as I deliberately played it down. If you feel uncomfortable skip to the A/N at the end.

A Knight and a Plot

-Santana-

It was late afternoon and we had just returned from the town, Artie was wriggling his nose and staring at the spectacles that rested upon it. I stifled a chuckle, his eyes had crossed and he looked terribly confused. I nudged his arm to knock him out of this little daze he had fallen in. Neither of us spoke as we entered the gardens, it was quiet, a cool afternoon breeze blowing through the trees, and there was a soft yellow glow from the setting sun. Crickets chirruped and there were other small bugs flying around with no particular place to go, it was as though they had been drinking wine and could not fly in a straight line, if that was the case then they must drink a lot.

'What do you think of Gwen?' Artie asked suddenly, snapping me from my thoughts of alcoholic insects.

'She...' I was not sure how to answer, I did not want to make him suspicious of my true feelings, and yet I also did not want him to think I disliked her. 'She is very pretty and quite sweet.'

'Aye, I think she is rather lost. Mentally I mean, last night she would not stop talking about Unicorns and dragons and other such mythical creatures...' He wrinkled his nose and stared at the spectacles again. 'I do not know, perhaps it is because she is so young.'

I frowned in confusion. Was she not Arties age? 'How old is she then?'

'She is only 16. Still only a child really.' He sighed. She certainly seemed older whenever I saw her, he was 16 not 3 years ago. I was only 17. Did he see me as a child? I asked him as much. 'Not really, you seem older than you are, wise before your years as it were, she seems stuck in her childhood.'

I do not know why but this annoyed me. Surely he cared for her and did not see any bad in her? I have never believed in love. It was only for stories and poems, nothing like real life, in real life you settle for someone. Preferably someone who you could suffer through your final years with. He seemed to have a problem with her age also, sure she was young but that does not stop a friendship, or a relationship from forming, I know that Uther was 21 and his wife was 15 when they married, they did not seem to care. Arthur and Brittany were married and therefore Artie should care for Britt, she was his wife, he needed to make her feel special and loved-

A sudden thought hit me, it was not suitable to ask it, but I found I wanted to know. I do not know why I should care what happens between them in private, but the thought of someone touching her, it made me feel sick. Why should I care? She is his wife not mine. The sudden thought of Brittany as my wife made me feel warm inside and I smiled. No. I pushed the idea from my mind and focused on where we were walking. He had escorted me to my chambers. Then I realised he was still talking.

'-have not even consumated it yet, but it does not matter because we shall tonight, I am sure of it.'

I stopped dead in my tracks when I realised what he had said, and the sick feeling in my gut slowly disappeared.

'Santana? Are you ok?' He asked a puzzled look crossing his face.

I snapped my head to face him and blinked a few times in confusion, I realised he was waiting for a reply still. 'A-Aye, I just felt d-dizzy all of a sudden, perhaps I should go l-lie down.' We bowed to each other and I quickly went to sit on my bed all the air knocked out of me for some strange reason. I smiled weakly, but then it faded and the nausea slowly crept back. They had not consumated their marriage, but Artie planned to tonight. I shook my head. Why do I even care, it has nothing to do with me.

I sighed deeply and walked over to my window. The sun was setting over the mountains, making the sky around it a deep red, a few clouds rolled lazily through the sky and the first hints of night were coming from the east, an almost sinister darkness that was forcing the light away. It was getting late and as I saw a few carriages stopping outside the main gates I realised that I should prepare myself for this evening. It was merely a celebration of our triumph at Lunatog and usually I would happily sneak out for a mead in a tavern in the villiage, play a few games of cards before finding a young maiden and wasting the night, but I was needed this evening. I had led the seige and Uther had clearly stated that he had a surprise for me.

'Is everything ok Miss?' I heard from behind me, recognising the voice as Quinns I did not turn around, I simply stared out the window again, watching as the clouds morphed into different shapes, and marvelling at how the sky changed as the sun set. I bet Brittany would love this. Sensing Quinns annoyance at my lack of answer I replied.

'Aye, just thinking is all.'

'You should not think too much Sanny.' I winced at the nickname, I have never liked it and she only ever says it when she is after something.

'What are you after Q?' I asked slowly tearing my eyes from the beautiful scene outside to face the maid, her clothes were slightly tattered but she always had this air of elegance and grace surrounding her, normally it was appealing but at the moment it just made it seem like she thought she was better than me and made me want to punch her.

'Nothing... Whatever makes you say that?' She slowly walked towards me batting her long eyelashes and twirling a lock of hair around her finger.

'You called me Sanny...' I stated taking a step back as she took a step forward.

'Aye, that I did.' She replied continuing her path towards me.

'You only call me that when you are after something.' I said coldly glaring at her as she had walked me against the wall, trapping me by standing right in front of me.

'I want you Sanny, it has been too long.' She pouted, it made her look like a stroppy child.

'Not tonight Q. I am needed downstairs, can you just fetch my robes please.' I was not in the mood for her games tonight.

She glared at me. 'Are you serious Santana?' I nodded and stared her down. 'Fine.' She relented, I sidestepped her and again sat on my bed. 'Are you sure you want robes and not a gown?' I looked at her pointedly. She knew I hated them, which is probably why she offered me one after turning her down. I knew what she was like and she was going to be stubborn and difficult until she got what she wanted so bad. I looked into her emerald eyes and waited. She stared back, determined to make me look away first, she failed of course and quickly went to fetch my clothes. Among them was my squires belt. I arched an eyebrow at her but she insisted that I wear it.

-Two hours later-

Uther stood at the front and called for everyones attention. His wife Queen Rose was beside him. We were in the dining hall again, the tables had been cleared away, minstrels sat in the corner playing soft music and servants were walking around with glasses of bitter wine and mead. Not many were drunk and I had spent most of the evening searching the room, but for what I did not know. You know. Nay, I did not.

'Good evening all, as you know this evening is in honour of the brave Lancelot and the Knights that followed her into battle against the Lunatogians.' Uther stated once the minstrels had stopped and everyone was focused on him. There were a few murmurs about me being a woman and not a knight. I had heard it all before and so I did not really care. Uther continued. 'But, I wish to give this celebration a new meaning tonight.'

'The strength and stability of the Kingdom lie in these virtues of its people: creativity, service and chivalry - for if any of these are lacking, the Kingdom fails. The fighters of the Kingdom defend it with their swords and with their honor bring it glory on the field.' He said suddenly serious, the crowd fell silent as we realised what was happening. 'Let all Members of the Order of Chivalry of this Kingdom here present come forward and kneel before the Crown.' Someone was being Knighted.

I watched as Sires Arthur Pendragon, David Karofsky, Joe Hart, Ricorn Nelson, Blaine Anderson and the three Princes from Lothian kneeled before Uther. He continued.

'What business have you before us?'

Arthur stood and bowed before saying 'Your Majesty, we, the Chivalry of Camelot feel our numbers are not complete, and that there is one here present whose honour, prowess, and chivalry, both on the field and in the hall, entitles them to recognition as our Peer.'

'We are agreed. Go forth and bring the candidate to Us.' Uther said smiling knowingly at me.

I gasped as Artie turned and with some trouble picked his way through the crowd towards me. He bowed before taking my hand and walking me to the front of the hall, before Uther.

'We here present Santana Lancelot for Your Majesty's consideration as a Candidate for membership in Our order.' Arthur said smiling wickedly at me. They had planned this all along, the dogs. I was grinning like a fool as I kneeled before him a little in front of the others.

'You have spoken with me of her before. We are in agreement that she is worthy of Membership in your noble Order. If you are squired to any Knight of this Realm, name him now.' Uther said.

'Your Majesty, I am squired to Sir Arthur Pendragon.' I replied.

'Sir Pendragon, approach Their Majesties.'

Artie came and stood beside me.

'Sir Pendragon, We are minded to Knight your squire Lancelot. Will you now release her from your service and release her from whatever fealty exists between you?'

Artie turned to me and said 'I now release you, Lancelot, from my service and the fealty we have had between us.'

'It has been my honor and pleasure to train with you. I release you, Sir Pendragon, from all of the responsibilities and duties you took upon yourself when I became your Squire. I here return this token of my bond to you.' I replied as I handed him my squires belt. I understand now why Quinn had told me to wear it.

'Will you now give Us your word that you will henceforth comport yourself as befits a Peer of Our Realm, as you most surely have until now, and that you will attempt in all your endeavors to be a noble example to Our people?' Uther asked.

'I will.' I replied.

'Will you promise further to treat all with Courtesy, and to uphold the Laws and traditions of Our Kingdom?'

'I will.'

Suddenly Rory bounded towards us presenting a sword hilt foremost, to Uther. He took it and layed it across his upraised palms. 'Place your hands upon Our own.' He told me, so I placed my hands upon his. Blaine came and stood beside me, telling me to repeat after him.

'Here do I swear by mouth and hand fealty and service to the Crown and Kingdom of Camelot to speak and to be silent to come and to go, to strike and to spare, to do, and to let be in such matters as concern the Kingdom on my honour, and the lawful commands of the Crown in need, or in plenty in peace, or in war in living, or in dying from this hour henceforth until the King depart from His Throne, or death take me, or the world end so say I Santana Lancelot.' I repeated, trying to stop a smile from spreading across my face.

'And this do We hear, nor fail to remember, and We for Our part do swear fealty to you, Santana Lancelot, to protect and defend you, and all your household, with all Our power, until We depart from Our Throne, or death take Us, or the world end. So say We, King Uther Pendragon of Camelot'

'So also say We, Queen Rose Pendragon of Camelot.' The queen stated smiling at me.

Uther then lightly struck me three times with the flat of the blade, first upon the left shoulder, next upon the right shoulder, and finally upon the top of the head, while saying: 'I dub thee once ... I dub thee twice ... I dub thee Knight. Rise, Sir Santana Lancelot.' I did, and the Queen placed a new belt around my waist, while Uther put a cloak baring Camelots coat of arms on me. 'Go now to your peers.' He said grinning at me.

I turned and was met with hugs from all of the Knights, I felt a small tear fall down my cheek as I realised what just happened, I had been Knighted, and what is more. I was the first woman ever. Perhaps it was strange that I was deemed a Sir but I was not about to dispute it.

'For Sir Lancelot, newest Knight of the Kingdom of Camelot. Cheer.' And everyone did. I grinned like a fool as I looked across the sea of faces finally falling on the one I had been searching for all night. Brittany. She was so beautiful and I could not stop myself from admiring her looks and her enthusiasm as she was smiling, applauding and cheering the loudest as the Knights and I returned to the crowd. The cheers died down and swarms of people came to congratulate me. I smiled and once everyone had left me alone I walked over to her.

She curtsied and I felt my heart swell in my chest. 'Good evening Sir San. Congratualtions on becoming a Knight at last. How does it feel?'

'Amazing.' I looked at her soft pink lips and imagined how they would feel against my own, about how they would taste. I licked my own lips subconsiously.

'Good.' She smiled, Artie was no where to be seen so I did not worry about talking to Britt and the mistrels had started their music again.

I bowed to her. 'May I have this dance M'lady?' I asked offering my hand.

'Why of course you may Sire' she curtsied and took my hand as I felt a jolt of something shoot through my body, I led her over to where others were already dancing drunkenly. Her left hand was on my shoulder and I rest my right hand upon her hip. I felt her shiver at my touch and I smirked as she blushed. We danced, it was slow but sweet and being this close to her felt so right. Our bodies were pressed together and we were both smiling, her blue eyes piercing into my chocolate ones.

After two songs had gone by I felt a tap on my shoulder I turned to face Artie who was smiling also. 'May I steal my wife?' He slurred. He sounded very very drunk. I nodded and kissing Britts hand I bowed, she curtsied and took Arties hand waving at me as they left the hall. I sighed, once she was gone I felt like something was missing. I did not wish to be here any longer so I thanked Uther, said my goodbyes and retired to my chambers. Thankfully there was no sign of Quinn and I was able to change into the bedclothes she had left for me without being bothered by her.

I settled into bed and drifted off to sleep, once again dreaming of a certain blonde haired, blue eyed beauty.

/.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../

-Quinn-

I met him out in the gardens almost immediately after my Sanny had been knighted. It hurt when she turned me down earlier. But never fear, she will still be mine. I just had to sort this out with that oaf of a prince.

He kissed me straight away, his mouth sloppy and wet, he forced his tongue into my mouth and he prodded around as though he was searching for something. It was vile, nothing like my Sanny. His stubble was scratchy and it made my face itch terribly. I just closed my eyes and ignored the feeling of wanting to gag, I had to get him to fall in love with me or at least d everything that I asked, without him, my precious Santana would fall foul to that ugly horrible harlot of a Princess Guinevere. That could not happen. He moaned and I felt it press against me through his robes. I gently pulled away and smiled as thought kissing him was amazing and did not make me want to throw up and then eat soap to rid myself of his taste. It did not help that he was drunk.

'You so pretty' he slurred grinning lopsidedly at me as he leant in to kiss me again. I pushed him back.

'Sire please, we must be careful. Imagine the scandal if we are caught' I glanced around carefully hoping that no-one was around.

'I do not care.' He leant in again but I pushed him back firmly.

'Nay. I do, and I wish to talk to you first. Is it true that you are to become King of Lothian?'

'Of course, being the oldest and the most good looking, I am next in line for the throne.' he grinned that stupid smile again.

'Well, how would you like to be King of Camelot as well?' I asked watching him carefully, I know I had kind of thrown this upon him but I wanted to get away as soon as possible, he stank and I could still taste his tongue in my mouth.

He smirked. 'Of course, but how am I to do that?'

'I have a plan Sire, but for now I must leave, will I see you again tomorrow?' Not that I want to.

'Aye, meet me in my bedchambers after lunch, we can talk then.' I nodded and grimacing I quickly kissed him again before running back to the servants quarters. The first part of my plot was done.

/.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../

-Brittany-

I pushed him away again, but he was stronger than he looked.

'Come my sweet, you are my wife, tis your job to make me feel good.'

'Nay, Arthur. I feel unwell, please not tonight.' I pleaded as he kissed my neck.

I felt sick, as soon as we got to our shared chambers he had basically thrown himself at me, kissing me and hands wandering all over my body. He was bad last night, but tonight he was so much worse. His kisses were wet and sloppy and the feel of his tongue in my mouth made me feel nauseous.

'Aye tonight.' He growled at me and started tearing clothes from my body. 'You are mine.' I tried to fight him off but I could not. I felt something hard pressing into my thigh through his robes as he continued to kiss my neck. I pushed him off of me then suddeny he slapped me. Hard. It stunned me as I cupped my face, it felt like it was on fire at the sharp stinging sensation. I felt close to tears.

Since I stopped fight he took his chance and forced himself on me. I felt a sharp pain in my lower area as he thrust into me. The sudden sharp intrusion hurt even worse than when he hit me, I could not look at him so I closed my eyes tight, forcing the bile that had risen in my throat and stopping myself from crying. He was panting and his thrusting became faster as his hands found their way to my throat. I could not breathe and I opened my eyes in pain. My whole body was aching and I felt dizzy from lack of oxygen. He suddenly stopped thrusting and just groaned loudly before flopping onto my body. I inhaled quickly trying to breathe propery again. He rolled off of me and started snoring softly.

Eventually I was breathing ok again, but I was crying. Badly. I felt used and dirty and wrong. I felt like I had betrayed someone. I was sobbing as I thought back to how happy I had been today.

Watching San train with Artie was wonderful, I noticed she held her sword in her left hand and her sheild in her right, while everybody else I had seen held them the opposite way around. She was so beautiful and cute. When she smiled her whole face lit up, she had a dimple and she was such a gentleman. It was adorable. She seemed so happy when she was Knighted and I felt so proud, then when we were dancing with our bodies oh so close and tight. It had never felt so good or so right. When she pressed into me, even slightly, our bodies fit perfect as though they were meant to be. I thought about what she would say if she knew what had just happened, and I cried even harder.

So much for love, I do not even like Artie. I was in so much pain and my throat and privates felt sore from it. I sobbed even more when I realised what was happening. It was bad but I think I was falling for Santana. For the third night in a row, I cried myself to sleep.

/.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../

A/N Okay so I know I went into a lot of detail about the Knighting but it was just too cool for me, I'll admit I may have researched just a little into the protocol for knighting someone and I liked that, I hope you did too, sorry about the end getting a little dark but there was fair warning at the beginning. Sorry for minimal Brittana, it will be more in future chapters. Please review and yeah.

Gx

P.S. This is the longest chapter yet. hehe.