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Kingdom of Knighton - Knightonia - Royal castle tower library.
Knighton was a peaceful kingdom, for the past 100 years since the battle at the golden castle. There had been nothing to worry about, nothing to fear, people never had to think about it the kingdom was going to be attacked. They didn't need to think about danger, chaos.. evil. It came down to one simple factor, they had magic to protect them, they had knights graduate every single year waiting in case of a threat. In case of danger. Some may say the kingdom had become reliant on magic, others believed they weren't reliant enough.. the kingdom, everything came down to the last standing wizard, the royal advisor..
"Merlok, I don't think I can do this.." a voice cut through the silence of the tower library, as the door slammed into the wall. "I can't ., I don't even know who I'm graduating with, you know I'm bad with people. It's going to be like the academy all over again." They continued, pacing around the floor as if this was the biggest crisis in the world. To them, it absolutely was, but to Merlok.. this was basically an average day.
"Clay, my boy.. why on earth do you think you can't do this?" Merlok was looking out of the window, listening to Clay's panic. "You've worked hard for this, why would you want to back out on graduation day?" He asked, keeping his gaze locked outside.
"I.. just can't, think about it. Sure I've worked hard, but this.. it's too much. I can't work with others." Clay ran a hand through their hair, and watched his father closely. "When you adopted me.. you told me I had great power within, is it because you saw me becoming a knight?" He brushed his foot on the velvet carpet, before looking up at the chandelier.
"Or because you felt bad for me living on the streets?" Clay shot the question so quickly, Merlok turned around. Yet, he wasn't upset at Clay asking such a question. He knew Clay, he adopted Clay because of his potential.. but also another reason, he couldn't yet explain.
"Clay.. you know why I adopted you, I see potential that nobody else can." He spoke gently, watching Clay's face. "You're my son Clay, and I understand it's never been easy for you." He continued, as Clay's hands clenched by his side.
"Don't ever think I took you under my wing out of guilt, that will never be the case." He added, as Clay suddenly wiped their face, and sniffled slightly. "I'm sorry Clay, just understand that I believe in you."
"Dad.. I'm sorry, I should get going.. the graduation is starting in an hour." Clay muttered, unclenching his hands and turning around. "Thank you.. for believing in me, outside of Jestro.. your the only person who has."
"I'll believe in you always Clay, that's what I'm supposed to do." Merlok responded, as Clay left the library, shutting the door gently behind them. "I do however.. need to tell you something.." he muttered, turning back to the window and observing the falling confetti that celebrated the annual graduation.
Knighton - Capital of the kingdom - Knightonia
Confetti flew everywhere, as people were walking in groups heading to the joust dome. People were travelling all the way from different places in the kingdom just to see the graduation, others who couldn't travel were instead watching from the live broadcast hosted by Herb Herbertson and Alice squires, who are the hosts of the Knighton news network. One of the biggest news stations in the kingdom.
"We are now LIVE straight from the Knighton news broadcast station, to give everybody the latest news and updates about our lively kingdom! I'm Herb Herbertson, she's Alice squires and today we're bringing the graduation to anybody who can't make it to the capital on this lovely day!" Herb spoke with enthusiasm, and a large smile on his face. He was known for his enthusiastic personality and also covering the news in an engaging way.
"That's right Herb, today is the annual 151st knights academy graduation! Everybody is excited to see who's graduating this year, and if they can truly be prepared to protect our kingdom in case of danger." Alice responded, leaning backwards in her chair. As Herb nodded to her words. "However! There's a question that seems to be currently driving everybody crazy." She spoke, leaning forward again.
"That question being, will Princess Macy Halbert, daughter of Queen Hama Halbert and King Egred Halbert, be allowed to graduate, I've heard rumours she's on the graduation list this year." Alice continued speaking, as Herbs face shifted for a second before going back to his enthusiastic smile.
"If she's graduating, I don't see why not! She's put the effort in, she's proven that she is worthy of graduating with the others. I think the king should give her a chance, after all her mother was a knight, might as well keep up the tradition!" Herb spoke, as he looked at Alice, then back at the camera again.
"I think it's time we give our lovely viewers a break Alice, once these commercials are over. We'll continue with everybody's favourite news broadcasting station!" Herb smiled, as the camera suddenly turned off.
Knightonia - Royal castle - Hallway
Macy paced the hallway of the castle for what felt like an eternity while waiting for her parents to stop talking. She'd already told her father she wasn't playing knight, why did he need to discuss it with her mother like she didn't want to be royalty anymore. It felt as awkward as when she came out to them, and they spoke to her about if this was what she wanted, of course it was.. considering she was a lot happier now. Yet her father treating her like somebody who needed protecting at all times, she knew he cared.. but sometimes he cared a little too much.
She groaned and leaned against the wall, as one of her only true friends since her first day at the academy suddenly appeared beside her. It was Lance, they basically grew up together and Lance had been temporarily staying at the castle with no further explanation.. and it seemed like he wasn't really fond of talking about it either. He was a nice guy, but never really had closer friends then Macy before.
"Trouble in paradise, princess?" He teased, elbowing her as he spoke. "What's the topic of discussion this time, it can't possibly be THAT bad can it?" He asked, running his hand through his hair.
"I don't think my dad wants me graduating." She sighed, as Lance snorted suddenly. "It's not funny Lance, if I can't graduate.. you're going to be alone, I know you don't want that." She muttered, as she slid her back down the wall.
"I think I'll survive, trust me.. I may not be people's favourite person to hang around, but they're going to have to deal with it." Lance responded, as he sat down beside Macy on the floor. "Besides, We've never met these guys before.. I doubt they'll even care about us." He added, bumping Macy's elbow playfully with his own.
"I just.. want to be by your side." She sighed, as the two of them caught glimpse of another assumed graduate walking down the halls with their face buried in a book. "Hm.. I'm assuming they're a graduate too." She laughed, as Lance nodded.
"Please, they're reading the knights code.. they're obviously a graduate." He spoke, as the door opened and Macy and Lance immediately stood up off of the floor. Both of them brushing off their armour despite having no dust on them.
"Macy, me and your mother have spoke it over." Her father spoke, looking at his daughter with a soft expression. "I've decided to let you graduate, on one condition." He continued, as Macy looked intensely at him. Expecting the worst response.
"You be careful, I know the kingdom is safe, but your my daughter.. and I can't risk you getting hurt if there is suddenly a threat." He watched her closely, as Lance stood beside her. "Lance, I know your not my family.. but you're like a son to me, I trust you to keep my daughter safe."
Lance and Macy exchanged a look as Macy suddenly hugged her father. "I.. I'll keep her safe your majesty, uh.. knights honour." Lance smiled, as king Halbert nodded. Lance looked away for a second, thinking about them.. how everything he's experienced at the castle was completely different. The Halberts.. they let him in without the need to explain, it felt like.. home.
"Lance, come on.. we should head down to the joust dome before it's too late." Macy released her father from a hug as Lance shook his head to focus on the conversation that was currently being held. "Hey Lance, are you okay?" She asked, tilting her head as Lance nodded.
"Just thinking.. that's all." He responded, as the two of them started walking off together. "At least now I don't need to be alone." He spoke, once again elbowing her shoulder as they disappeared down the halls.
"I'm sure she's going to be fine dear, you mustn't worry so much. She can protect herself." Queen Halbert spoke, putting her hands on her husband's shoulders. "Lance will be watching her.. have faith in them." She smiled, as her husband also smiled at her.
"I will.. I trust Lance will keep an eye on her." King Halbert spoke, as the two of them walked down the opposite side of the hallway together. "I can't help but think she's growing up too quickly.." he added, holding his wife's hand gently in his own.
"It's nothing to fear my love, she's going to be completely fine.. isn't she?"
"I hope so.. she's our only daughter, I worry every day about her my queen.."
"I understand, but let's focus on her becoming the greatest knight." Queen Halbert spoke, reassuring her husband that their daughter was going to be completely fine, because it was.. they just needed to trust that she could handle being a knight.
Knighton - Capital of the kingdom - Knightonia
"We are back Alice, I'm sure everybody appreciates a small break every now and then. As we mentioned, a class is graduating today! What we forgot to mention was the performance held by Merlok the royal advisor and magician, as well as Jestro! The kingdoms royal Jester!" Herb spoke resting his hands on the arms of his chair.
"That's true Herb, we should now probably introduce our new graduates.. seeing as there's only 5 of them, this shouldn't take very long.." Alice responded, immediately continuing to speak while Herb was thinking.
"Starting off with the top graduate, a hard working student who worked all the way to the top! Clay Moorington!"
"Merlok's very own adoptive son, it's no surprise he worked hard to reach the top!"
Clay was considered the "uptight" knight at the academy, constantly burying their face into a variety of books from the schools library or the knights code, a book he got from a teacher, and not really being interested in making friends with others. He had one friend, being Jestro.. who left the academy without explanation in freshman year, and ever since then, Clay had never been interested in making new friends.
He was quite tall, being around 5'6 with light brown hair which he typically styled so it was sat on his shoulders or tied up. They had light brown eyes, and freckles under their eyes which weren't very visible unless you looked close enough. They had silver armour with blue highlights on the shoulders, waist and knees. His armour had a blue and white crest in the centre, which had a falcon in the centre. It was Merlok's crest, but Clay insisted on wearing it with pride.
His weapon of choice was a Claymore sword, one given to him when he started at the academy.. it was important to him. They taught themself growing up, and continued developing their skills until they were practically a professional. It wasn't easy, but they made it work, especially after an accident when they first got their sword.. that they didn't really speak about.
"Next up Alice, the charmer himself.. even if I don't understand what people see in him. Lancelot "Lance" Richmond!"
"It would mean everything to me if he was a TV host, look at his charming personality!"
Lance was a charmer, yet nobody at the academy seemed to think so. Everybody seemed to call him self centred, needy for attention and the guy that has no empathy for other people. It led him to not really wanting to make new friends, and only hang around Macy.. who he'd known his entire life. It's not that he wasn't interested in making friends, it was that he seemingly wasn't capable of holding friendships for a long period of time.
Lance was seemingly the same height as Clay, being 5'6 with curly platinum blonde hair that was browning at the roots yet he didn't particularly want to get it touched up. He had light blue eyes, and occasionally had small hand drawn hearts on his cheeks. He usually had his hair tied back, with only the front strands being visible over his ears. As well as his bangs seemingly nearly covering his right eye.
Ironically, Lance's weapon choice was .. a Lance. It was the easiest weapon for him to use, and he customized it himself to match his armour which was silver, with white and gold detailing on the shoulders, waist and knees. Unlike all of the other graduates, Lance didn't have a crest on his armour. Instead it was silver plating with white undercoats, to ensure his armour didn't slide off.
"Next up on the graduation list, Aaron Fox!"
"This daredevil seems to be prepared for anything Herb, even a monster attack!"
Aaron Fox, the energetic daredevil. He never really found his place at the academy, often being outcast for his high energy personality, he decided he didn't need friends if all they were going to do was judge him. So hearing he was graduating with 4 other people sounded like a cruel joke, especially when they too were only going to judge him.
He was short, standing at 5'3 compared to what he'd heard about the other graduates. He had maple orange hair that was short compared to Clay and Lance, and green eyes with freckles on his nose. A noticeable thing was his small scruff on his chin, that he never really mentioned yet somehow it was always brought up In a conversation. He has silver armour with green highlights, as well as his crest being green with an orange fox in the centre.
Aaron's weapon of choice was the newest rendition of the blazer bow, which didn't look practical but he really refused to care, it's not like his new teammates would bother to ask. It's not like they have to be a team, the kingdom has been safe for the last 100 years, so really the whole graduation was kind of a publicity stunt that focused more on the royal family then it did on the knights.. that's what he thought anyway. His parents forced him to the academy, and all he got was absolutely nothing.. now a dumb shield.
"Axl is up next Herb, I've heard good things about his skills!"
"Well when you have somebody like Axl, it's not hard to act without planning."
Axl was a quiet guy at school, tended to be by himself. Where people wouldn't want him on their team solely because he was strong.. or looked strong, he had a hard time making friends because he didn't know who actually wanted to be his friend and who just wanted him to join their tournament team and look like they wanted to be friends. He'd encountered a student reading sometimes, yet when they bumped into eachother.. all Axl got was a stare and no apology.
He was the tallest new graduate being 7'0 tall, he had black hair which was styled in a very gentle way being dreads which were tied back. He had dark purple eyes, as well as quite noticeable freckles on his nose. He had silver armour just like everybody else, with yellow highlights on his shoulders, waist and knees, as well as his crest being a yellow bull.
Axl used an axe as his weapon, it was heavy but he thought it looked cool. Like Clay, he taught himself.. yet unlike Clay he didn't have an accident resulting in physical altercations to his body. He learnt more from the academy then he did by himself, and he was quite appreciative of the fact he had the opportunity to actually go to the academy at all.. for his parents letting him take that step forward.
"Finally, our last graduate on the list.. Princess Macy Halbert!"
"I'm so pleased she got her graduation accepted Herb!"
Macy was far from an outcast at the academy, in fact.. she was too popular, everybody wanted to be her friend. But the reason absolutely sucked, it was solely because she was the princess.. and everybody automatically assumed being friends with her would make them popular. To her, it felt like they didn't even see her as a person.. just a novelty to help them get more attention at school.
She was the second tallest new graduate being 6'8 with dark red hair that was always tied back into a long ponytail. She had dark brown eyes and freckles on her cheeks, as well as a somewhat noticeable chip in one of her teeth that she never remembers how she got it. Unlike everybody else, her armour was pearl white with gold and red highlights on the shoulders, waist and knees. She wasn't a fan of having separate armour, but it's not like she could argue with her father over armour colours.
Her weapon of choice was a power mace, like her mother.. who actually used a hammer not a mace. She had been training with it ever since she got it that day, and even now she doesn't know who got it for her.. yet learning herself, and from the academy.. she learnt quite a bit. Hoping one day, she'll be able to get stronger then her mother.. or be just as badass as her. It was something she hoped would be possible, maybe in the future..
"And that's everybody graduating today Alice, why don't we give the lovely viewers another break until the ceremony is ready to begin?" Herb asked, putting his hands on his knees as he looked at Alice.
"That sounds like a great idea herb, I'm sure everybody needs a small break now. Let's come back soon!" Alice responded, as the cameras went off once again.
Knightonia - Joust dome - training area
Lance and Macy were the last ones to reach the training room, by the time they got there.. all 3 of the other graduates were already standing around. Not really doing much outside of sitting in separate places, as if they were attempting to ignore eachother.. which was probably the case in this situation.
"Do we.. introduce ourselves? Or leave these three alone?" Lance asked Macy, who just shrugged beside him. "I mean, this is our chance to finally meet new people.. isn't it?" He continued, pulling at his glove. He was anxious.. which was new for him, he never seemed anxious about things like this.. yet here he was, anxious he would be pushed away by people he'd never even met before.
"Lance.. you'll be fine, I promise you.." Macy spoke, putting a hand on Lance's shoulder. "I'm going to introduce myself to them, just., do what makes you comfortable okay?" She continued, as Lance nodded in response.
"Okay.. good luck Lance.." she smiled, as she walked away to try and start conversation with somebody.. anybody, and so went to the green knight first.
Aaron was standing alone listening to music in the corner, as he noticed Macy walk over and sit on the table despite there being a chair right next to her. "Can I help you with anything?" Aaron asked, glancing at Macy before going back to his music.
"I'm introducing myself, I'm Macy.. we went to the academy together obviously, but I guess we were apart of different social circles.. everybody was constantly trying to be my friend because of my royal status.. it was annoying, so please none of this princess stuff.. we're teammates, not associates." She spoke directly, as Aaron eventually looked at her completely. "What? Did I say something weird?" She asked, as he pulled his headphone off of his ear.
"There was never any princess at the academy.. there was prince–" that's when it hit Aaron, and he looked at Macy completely. "Wait.. holy crap, are you.. no way." He pulled his headphones completely down to his neck as he looked at her.
"Well colour me surprised, I thought I was going to be the only trans person on the team.. hmm." Aaron muttered, as Macy slid off of the table. "I guess being on a team with new people may not be so bad after all.. I'm Aaron."
"I heard your name on the news broadcast while I was walking down.. I'm glad we finally get to meet." Macy smiled, putting her hand out for Aaron to shake. "It's an honour to meet one of my new teammates."
"Yeah, you too Mace!" Aaron genuinely smiled for once as he realised… maybe this truly could be a new start for him, he was truthfully a bit quick to judge.. but now it made him feel a bit guilty. She didn't seem to be judging and was immediately interested in whatever song he was listening too. "Hah.. maybe this will work out.."
Lance stayed standing in place.. unlike Macy, he couldn't find the confidence to talk to the others. As suddenly, the blue knight was standing directly Infront of him, looking him up and down like a specimen under a microscope. "You smell like lavender and honey, why is your perfume so strong?" They asked, brushing down their armour and keeping their eyes locked on him.
"I.. what? Nice to meet you too?" Lance was admittedly, a little confused. As the blue knight tilted his head as if he didn't just announce what Lance smelt like. "Why are you sniffing me exactly?"
"I'm not, you just have a stupidly sweet aroma.." He confessed, adjusting the book under his arm. "I'm Clay, nice to meet you." They added, looking at lance intensely.
"You must be Lancelot.. the news broadcast said so." He added, as Lance's face shifted into something of shame. "Uh, I'm sorry.. did I say something wrong?" They asked, as Lance's face changed again.
"Aha.. no, it's just.. nobody calls me Lancelot, you can just call me Lance." Lance responded, as Clay nodded. "It's nice to meet you Clay, uh.. sorry, I'm not the best with people."
"That's surprising, Richmond's are pretty full of themselves. Not saying you are but I've seen them on broadcasts all the time, if you're their son.. shouldn't you also be with them?" Clay didn't even realise he was asking personal questions, as somebody stood beside Clay, which made Lance jump.
"Not to butt in, but maybe keep your personal questions to yourself?" He spoke, as Clay thought about it for a second. "Maybe you should apologise?" He added, as Clay sighed.
"I'm sorry Lance, look I don't usually think before I speak… obviously, and so my questions may come out as rude. Please ignore that, clearly I should look over the knights code again." Clay spoke calmly, as he grabbed the book from under his arm and disappeared into a corner.
"Apology.. accepted? I–I think.." Lance sighed, putting his hands on his waist as the other individual looked at his face.
"I'm Axl, like you said.. you're Lance right?" He put his hand out, but Lance didn't shake it. "I heard whispers about you at the academy, how you're parents paid for you to graduate." He put his hand down again, as Lance froze on place suddenly.
"I don't believe that though, you're here now.. so I guess trusting my judgement is all I can do." He continued, as he put a hand on Lance's shoulder. "Welcome to the team Lance."
Lance nodded, but he didn't say anything. As Macy returned, laughing with Aaron.. Lance was glad, she'd actually made her first friend outside of him. Yet him.. he could barely say hello without feeling as if they were going to judge him for it. He smiled faintly, he was glad she was putting herself out of her comfort zone.. yet, couldn't find the words to actually congratulate her.
"Aaron, this is Lance. He's basically my little brother who we haven't officially adopted yet." She smiled, elbowing Lance playfully, as she the realised he didn't look like himself. "Lance.. it's going to be fine, really.." she spoke, looking at him with content.
"Nice to meet you Lance." Aaron spoke, realising he was standing next to a guy who was basically towering over him. "Holy crap you're tall." He clearly had no filter, as Axl nodded in response.
"I mean,.. my family genetics skipped my parents, apparently there's some sort of giant genetic going on here." He responded, realising he was actually talking to people without them asking how strong he was going to be for some sort of battle. "I'm Axl, you're Aaron right? That's what she just said." He added, pointing to Macy.
"Yep yep, I'm Aaron fox.. uh.. you're not going to get mad at me.. are you?" He asked, as Clay joined the conversation again, seemingly still reading the knights code. "People don't really like hanging out with me, apparently I'm.. a bit too hyperactive for them." He continued, as all of the graduates looked at him suddenly.
"Hm.. well, it seems like we're all outcasts here." Clay spoke, actually putting the book behind their shield. "I can't assume we're going to be friends, but I'm sure being on a team together will be a good experience for us all." They continued, as the others all nodded.
"I think we will be friends Clay-man! I've never really been around people who don't complain about my energy.. I kinda hope you guys don't see it as an issue." Aaron responded, putting a hand on Clay's shoulder, which was immediately pushed off. "Haha, you seem cool Clay.. consider us friends."
"Consider us all friends, we might as well if we're going to be the next graduate class together." Macy smiled, as she immediately smiled at Lance. "I'm sure we'll get along as friends, no matter what."
"I suppose so.. fine, if you guys want me as your friend.. I'll do no less." Lance smiled, as Macy gave him a small nod of approval. "What do you say Moorington? Are you going to be our friend or not?" He asked, looking at Clay.
Clay thought about it for a second, if he said yes.. would this be a betrayal to his first real friend? He feared this would push Jestro away, and he didn't want to lose them. Even if he hadn't seem them since freshman year, even if they disappeared without saying a word. He couldn't just betray a friendship like that, but on the other side.. he was going to be making new friends, people who wouldn't be seeing him just as "the uptight top graduate." They'd see him as a person, as a member of their team. ".. okay." He muttered, as he gave them a faint smile.
"Good, then it's decided. We're officially friends." Aaron spoke with enthusiasm, as they all stood awkwardly. "Uh.. is anybody else a bit.. anxious about the graduation?" He shifted the topic, watching the others all shuffle in place.
"Anxious.. of course I am." Clay spoke, playing with one of their gloves. "I.. what if something goes wrong? What if I make a bad impression?? I can't be a knight if I don't make a good impression, can I?" They asked, as Lance put a hand on his shoulder.
"Look.. Uber knight, you need to relax a little bit. You're going to be fine, I promise.. just act like the crowd isn't there, that's what I would do in your situation." Lance chimed in, brushing his hand through his hair, as Clay looked at him with a soft expression that Lance couldn't really read. "You wanna try that? Acting like the crowd isn't there?"
"It's worth a shot isn't it?" Clay responded, putting his book down on the nearest table and grabbing his sword from the scabbard running his hand over the blade. "I.. never thought I'd reach being here right now. Quite frankly, I'm honoured to call all of you my team, whether or not there's a threat. We have eachother now, and that's all that matters." His tone was soft, as all of them heard the signal go off.
"Well, this is it everybody. Let's show them we deserve to graduate today!" Aaron spoke with enthusiasm, as he headed towards the entrance of the Joust dome. All of the others followed him, leaving Macy and Lance walking next to eachother once again.
"You've got this princess, I'm sure of it." Lance elbowed her side, as Macy laughed slightly. "You're getting your shield, and the people will be so damn proud of you., your parents, the kingdom. Trust me." He smiled, as they stood near the entrance with everybody else.
Capital of Knighton - Knightonia - Joust dome
"And we are back Alice, this time we're getting into the main event of the graduation! The new graduates each have to show off a skill they've learnt at the academy, let's hope Clay Moorington shows us something impressive!"
"Clay may be small, but the skills he learnt from the academy.. and by themself certainly do come on handy when it's time for a presentation!"
Clay was a bit nervous, but with Lance's advice.. he seemingly got through his presentation flawlessly. It was a pretty simple presentation, squirebots with targets set up by two freshmen. Naturally he just used the skills he already had, which came from years of practice that he taught himself, and everything the academy helped him improve on. It was simple, but it was just what he needed. This was how he was proving himself to the kingdom, that he was going to be worthy of graduation..
"Aaron fox is up next Herb, it's hard to spot him on that hoverboard!"
Clay stood near the wall, watching Aaron go past him. It was surprising, considering he had never really seen Aaron in combat before, and his performance wasn't really that bad either, proving he had perfect aim as an archer was an impressive skill to have.
Aaron caught glimpse of Macy, Lance and Axl watching him. Macy.. was watching him, the first person who actually spoke to him without saying anything unnecessary, she just wanted to be his friend. As he shot down the last apple from the squirebot and parked himself next to Clay who wasn't really doing much.
"Are Macy and Axl presenting together?" He asked, looking as Clay as he spoke.
"Presumably yes, as they're both using heavy duty weapons." Clay responded, still holding their sword while talking before finally sliding it away, "it's simply better for both of them, isn't it?" He continued, as Aaron nodded.
"I guess so.. plus it saves time." Aaron responded, noticing Clay fidget with their gloves. "Is something wrong?" He asked, as Clay took his gloves off and started playing with his fingers.
"I need to get new gloves, these ones irritate my prosthetic for absolutely no reason, it drives me crazy." They responded, shaking their hand and putting their gloves back on. "Sorry,.. I suppose them presenting together would save time."
Aaron didn't push about his hand further, and instead focused back on the main arena.
"Lance Richmond is nice Alice, I'm sure everybody is dying to see what performance he can pull off."
Lance was up against a squirebot, which hit close to home.. thinking about the squirebot that practically raised him his entire life. Yet he kept his focus, because in moments like this he didn't want to focus on the past.. he just wanted to graduate with everybody else. After he actually put the effort in, started making that move for himself forward.. after everything. He watched Clay and Aaron, he didn't know if they had trust in him or not.. and so, it was up to him.. to make that choice for himself.
He won against the squirebot pretty easily, before hopping off of the hover horse and looking at Clay and Aaron again. Clay clapping for him slightly, Aaron was giving him a thumbs up before patting his arm when he stood beside the two of them.
"That was pretty sick dude, I had no idea you knew how to work a hover horse." Aaron spoke, as Lance instinctively ran a hand through his hair. "You gotta teach me some time."
"Hah.. thank you, I taught myself when I had no classes. It's pretty simple actually, maybe after the celebration I'll show you?" He suggested, as Aaron shook his arm suddenly.
"Dude, you're the best.. I would appreciate that so much," he responded, letting go of Lance's arm and turning to Clay. "Whatddya think Clay-man, wanna join us for a spin?"
"I'll pass.. hover horses aren't really my style.." Clay responded, as Aaron pat his shoulder. "But thank you, for asking.. maybe another time I'll consider it." He continued, as Lance and Aaron nodded in unison.
"Macy Halbert and Axl are putting on a joint presentation Herb, let's see how well they work together!"
Macy was anxious, but realising she had Axl by her side.. she didn't really have anything to worry about. Despite her legs shaking from the stress. "I don't know Axl.. it's a lot of pressure, and.. I can't let anybody down." She muttered, as Axl put a hand on her shoulder.
"Come on, you've been practicing since forever for this moment.. just trust your instincts." He spoke, as Macy nodded. "Now let's finish the presentation so we can officially get our shields."
Macy followed him out, the sound of cheers immediately hitting her. This was actually happening, and she was finally here. Proving to the kingdom that she deserved to graduate with the other knights, proving that she didn't go to the academy for nothing. Axl was on the other side, the presentation was simple enough.. and if she followed Lance's advice just pretend nobody else was watching. She would be fine, she'd get through the graduation flawlessly.. the presentation would go completely fine.
Lance, Aaron and Clay were there.. watching. Her future teammates were cheering her on, not loudly, but the best way they knew how.. and to her, that's all that mattered. "Mace! You got this, come on!" Aaron spoke, as she realised Clay muttering something too.. they were quietly cheering, and when the signal went off.. she realised the presentation was complete. As her and Axl joined the others near the wall together.
"Well done you two, a performance worth every second." Clay crossed his arms and nodded approvingly. "I'm sure the kingdom agrees with us." He continued, as Lance beamed.
"Macy! That was incredible, I knew you could do it!" He spoke, as he shook Macy's arm enthusiastically. "Girl, you are incredible every damn time you show off your skills." He added, as Aaron nodded as if Lance had said exactly what he was going to say.
"Thank you Lance, I appreciate it." She smiled, as all of them stood in a straight line together. They didn't know why they did that, until the floor actually stated moving which made all of the graduates slide slightly from the sudden movement.
"It looks like it's time for the new graduates to officially become new knights instead Alice! The moment of the graduation that everybody has been waiting for, the reason they're watching this broadcast or even travelled all the way here! So they could see this special event take place!"
"That's true Herb, everybody has been waiting patiently for this moment! Let's hope it's what everybody was expecting!"
The platform stopped suddenly, as the knights all instinctively turned to face the King and Queen who were smiling. Not an over exaggerated smile, but a smile that told the knights they were proud of them, that told the knights that they deserved to be standing here at the graduation right now. As they shuffled apart to allow them to pass through and give the speech that would change everything for the knights.
"People of my fair Kingdom, it's an honour to have to all travel from far away to join us in Knightonia today, on this very special occasion." King Halberts voice spoke loudly, proud and royal as the knights exchanged a look with eachother. "I am here, to praise the achievements of our new graduates, for their hard work, for their commitments to the academy which allowed them to reach this point."
"They should be honoured with pride, and justice. Something that right now, they've earned completely. For that, they're officially getting their knightly shields, the visible proof that they have worked for this. That they are now, the newest defenders of our fair kingdom, even if there's no direct threat right now. We know we can rely on them."
The knights all stood together, as Lance felt a tap on his shoulder. It was Macy's mother, as she signaled for him to follow her off of the platform and into the hall, while the other knights were being handed their new shields by the squirebots and King Halbert joining his wife and Lance in the hall.
"Lance.. I think we need to talk about this, and we understand you may not like what we're going to say." Queen Halbert held her hands together, watching his face closely. "We never received your shield." She spoke, as Lance's face didn't shift.
In hindsight he expected this, of course he did.. they refused to let him wield their crest anymore. It only made sense that he didn't actually get a shield. "So.. I can't graduate?" His voice trembled slightly, as the King and Queen exchanged a look with eachother, the worry of not letting him graduate.. despite everything.
"Of course you can, you deserve it. But.. I think temporarily, until we can get you your shield.. you simply have to use a trainer shield.. it's not much, but it's a temporary solution." King Halbert spoke, as his wife nodded in agreement. "Of course it's a Halbert shield.. but it's better then nothing is it not?"
"I.. it is." Lance couldn't stop himself from having tears roll down his cheeks.. something about all of this, how they still let him graduate, despite everything. "Thank you.. for believing in me." He muttered, as the Queen passed him the shield gently.
"Don't think it's because your a failure Lance, it's a temporary solution until we decide on what to do to fix this." She spoke, as Lance looked out of the hall, seeing all of the others talking to eachother. "We think it's better then watching your friends receive an achievement, without you."
"appreciate everything you've done for me, I really do. I showed up with no explanation, nothing.. and yet you still see me as family, regardless of what happens." He spoke, as Macy suddenly joined them in the hall to give her father a stupidly big hug.
"Dad.. thank you, for everything." She smiled, noticing Lance holding the trainer shield. "Hey look at us, we're officially more non adoptive, adoptive siblings then ever before!" She continued smiling, shaking Lance's shoulders playfully.
"Aha.. I guess so!" Lance responded, as Macy pulled him back to the stage where Clay and Aaron were .. talking.
"I'm just saying, isn't it a bit disrespectful to mess with the wiring of your shield? Think about the amount of effort put into construction of it." Clay pouted, putting their hands on their waist. "I'm not saying it's inherently bad, but you need to think before acting." He continued, as Aaron just snickered.
"Lighten up super knight, he's having fun.. it's a party to celebrate us, don't worry so much." Lance hit Clay's helmet teasing him, as Clay turned to look at the white knight. "Haah, did I upset you?" He continued teasing as Clay shook his head.
"You disappeared for a moment? Is everything okay?" He asked, as Lance nodded immediately.
"Everything is fine, come on.. quit being so paranoid." Lance laughed, as Clay shook his head and looked forward. Something was on his mind, about the potential of Jestro.. being a performer at the graduation. He hasn't thought about it too much since it was announced, but if it was actually them.. then Clay was either extremely pissed, or really glad to see them again.
As they were thinking, the lights in the arena suddenly flickered and the knights shook on the platform from the sudden quake. When suddenly, something entered the arena.. something the knights weren't expecting to see. Something that looked way to similar to a monster.. which immediately made all the knights draw their weapons, before realising something.. as Clay sighed. "Merlok.."
"Is this your dad's doing??" Lance asked, looking at Clay who nodded. "Damn it, I feel like he was planning this intentionally to trick us." He muttered, as the monster suddenly exploded into different coloured confetti, leaving the knights in a daze of confusion.
"Hoho, it seems like my trick didn't work this time around." Merlok laughed, adjusting his hat while making the knights appear on the ground of the joust dome. "I bet Clay warned you all beforehand didn't you my boy?"
"No Merlok, but it's a spell you use every year.." Clay responded, pushing his hair behind his ear. "Maybe next graduation you'll do better." He added, teasing the magician.
"Haha.. I'll think about it, but run along knights.. it's time for the next segment of this graduation!" Merlok spoke, as the knights disappeared into the training room while Merlok set of colourful fireworks everywhere.
Knightonia - Joust dome - Training room
Jestro the royal jester, they were an unconfident young jester who left the academy in freshmen year and still carried the guilt of leaving Clay behind, the person who tried his hardest to protect them. They left, because they felt as if they weren't good enough to become a knight, but if they stayed., maybe Clay wouldn't have been left all alone, with nobody else to call a friend.
They had black hair which only their bangs were visible due to their hat, as well as purple eyes and light freckles which weren't visible from under their make-up. They wore a blue and purple jester outfit with a matching hat, a hat that was similar to the one they wore growing up, except this one kept both of their little horns hidden. They painted their nails to match their outfit, and was actually pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
Today was their first ever performance, in front of a crowd.. which was terrifying to say the least. They had never really been one for public appearances, and even now.. going right after Merlok felt like a stupid decision, as they worried that their performance wouldn't go as well, overthinking that they would just.. mess everything up. Like they always do.
That's when they heard the knights walking in, the new graduates. They got anxious, before meeting eyes with the blue knight.. Clay. "Clay.. holy crap is that really you?" They asked, before immediately being pulled into a tight hug from him.
"Jestro.. I missed you so much." Clay responded, burying his head into Jestro's shoulder. "I can't believe it's really you.." he added, realising after all this time, his feelings for Jestro never changed..
"Clay.. it's nice to see you too, you haven't changed a bit since freshman year." Jestro responded, hugging Clay back tighter. "I'm so sorry I left, but it was.. I guess it was for the best. I mean I'm here now aren't I?" They responded, as the two of them separated their hug.
"Oh Jestro, good luck with your performance. I believe in you." Clay smiled, before instinctively pulling Jestro into them. He didn't know what he was thinking, before kissing Jestro on the mouth. "For good luck!" He smiled, as Jestro kissed him in return.
"I guess I'm returning you some luck too." He smiled, as the signal went off. "Let's hope that luck stays, I'll see you after the show Clay!"
"Yeah.. you too."
Lance was watching, as he walked up to Clay. "I had no idea you have a boyfriend Moorington, I really do learn new things all the time don't I?" He was teasing, but Clay had never really considered his thing with Jestro as romantic.. it was a friendly kiss at most, he wanted to give Jestro the motivation,
"Hey it's fine, I'm also a raging homosexual. Glad I'm not alone, buuut your boyfriend is definitely going to crash and burn, look at them." Lance continued, as Clay was a second away from punching Lance.
"They're not my boyfriend. Friends can kiss eachother you know." Clay fired back, as Lance put one of his hands on his waist. "Seriously, and why would it matter if I'm gay or not?"
"It.. doesn't, I mean you do you moo.." Lance teased, as Clay's face burned. This was going to be one hell of a ride, but Clay was confident… Jestro was back, and that's really all that mattered. "Come on, let's go join the others for Jestro's performance."
Knightonia - Joust dome - arena
Jestro was standing in the center of the arena, over a hundred different pairs of eyes watching them. Observing every single thing they were doing, it was terrifying.. and Jestro hated every second of it. They hadn't planned anything, they knew a couple of tricks, but not enough to out do Merlok. Not enough to have somebody other then Clay be proud of them for once.
Nothing seemed to be going right, their hands were shaking.. as they attempted to do the spinning plates trick, which just led to plates shattering all over the floor of the arena. It wasn't working, what they were doing was failing.. it always failed, they could never do anything right.
They tried pulling the cover from the table trick. Another failure, another pathetic attempt at making people laugh.. it was embarrassing, people weren't laughing because they were entertained.. they were laughing because Jestro the royal jester was being a public embarrassment once again. Everything was failing.. they were close to giving up, and then remembered one more trick. Juggling.
The knights were watching Jestro closely, Clay pacing.. thinking to himself off all the negative possibilities that could happen here. Jestro wasn't failing, they just weren't very good at working under pressure.. they never were. The silence was thick until Macy spoke.
"I hate to break the silence, but does Jestro know that's actually a power mace?" Macy asked, looking at Lance who thought about it for a second.
"Does it really make a difference?" He responded, as Aaron pat Lance's shoulder before shrugging.
"Eh.. it might." She replied, noticing Clay pacing around the room. "Clay, relax.. I'm sure it's not going to be that much of an issue." She added, as Clay sighed.
"I know.. but I'm worried, they don't work well under pressure and –" Clay stopped as the lights suddenly flickered off. "What's going on?" He asked, as he heard somebody stand up.
"A power outage by the looks of it.." Lance spoke, as something suddenly lit up the room. "Oh, thanks Merlok." He said, as Clay suddenly disappeared.
"Clay.. Clay my boy, wait a second." Merlok spoke, following Clay out of the training room.
"I understand they might be stressed, why not say something to cheer them up my boy?" Merlok suggested, as Clay and Jestro suddenly butt heads in the midst of the darkness. "Oh my, are you two okay?"
"Clay.. I'm so sorry, I thought I could do this.." Jestro muttered, as Merlok helped Clay stand up straight. "You.. you believed in me, and I still messed up." They continued, as Clay looked at them with sympathy.
"You did your best Jestro, that's all that matters. Next time–"
"There probably won't be a next time Clay, I know you believe in me. But I've messed up but time.. I.. don't think I'll be doing this again." Jestro didn't mean to snap, and seeing Clay's face made them feel nothing but guilt. "I'm sorry, I.. I think I need to be alone for a moment."
"Okay.. I'll see you when you feel better, I promise." Clay spoke, but not until Jestro had already disappeared. It made Clay feel awful, but there wasn't much they could do except leave Jestro to calm down.. "I'm sorry.." they muttered, looking at their shoes for a moment. He felt like something was wrong.. yet couldn't exactly place what it was..
"Come now Clay.. I'm sure everything will be okay." Merlok reassured, resting a hand on Clay's shoulder. "I hope.."
Knightonia - Royal Castle - Halls
The silence was thick when Jestro walked down the hallway of the castle, the air was different.. colder. As Jestro ran their hand across the tiled walls, thinking about how they lashed out at Clay.. he was only trying to help, they knew he was. Yet they still snapped at him, made him feel guilty for trying to help.. it made them feel terrible. The castle was different when everybody wasn't in it, quieter.. calmer. They took a deep breath, and continued walking before suddenly being caught off guard.
"I'll say joker, that was a pretty big spectacle you put on down there. I'm impressed." Somebody spoke, but when Jestro turned around.. nobody was there. The hallway remained empty, outside of them.. standing alone.
"I've never seen a performance end with a blackout, talk about show stopping." The voice continued, as Jestro looked out of the window. Colourful confetti floating down despite the darkness of the kingdom.
"How are you in my head.. I know your there because I'm currently alone in the halls." Jestro spoke, looking at their reflection in the window.
"You either respond or I'm looking for you personally." They continued, even with no weapon.. they thought they sounded pretty badass. "What's it going to be?"
"Come to Merlok's library, that's actually where I am. We can talk better if you can see me."
Despite everything telling them not to do it, Jestro sighed and walked down the halls. They knew where the library was, it couldn't really be missed and besides, they'd walked past it plenty of times. Something about this felt wrong, as if they should back out and find Clay. Yet they were already walking, and didn't want to back down now.. not when their curiosity was peaked.
Royal castle - Merloks tower library
The library air felt much thicker as Jestro pushed open the door. Usually the door was tightly shut, but the power outage must've unlocked it from the inside, which seemed like a reasonable answer in this situation.. yet the library was empty, outside of books and more books. As expected of a library that's been standing for over 500+ years, books that just happen to be existent from forever ago, probably older then Merlok if they were lucky at guessing.
"Hello? You said to meet you here, pretty boring place for a meet up.. definitely not sketchy in the slightest." They attempted a joke, but really they didn't find it that funny. "Now, where are you?"
"Hey jokes, okay.. you want to find me.. let's see, take a look behind Merlok's desk." The voice responded. "Specifically the pedestal, if it's any help."
Jestro did what they were told, and looked behind Merlok's desk where they found an open book.. nothing too out of the ordinary considering they were in a library. "It's a book, but those.. monsters, look so .. real." They muttered, gently putting a hand on the pages. "Okay, so now what?"
"How about.. you close the book, that sounds like a fun start." The voice spoke, as Jestro complied and closed the book. Only to reveal the book having a face. "Boo!"
"Aah, okay.. that's.. uh kinda creepy. Are you the mysterious voice messing with my head?" They asked, trying to understand what was happening here. "You.. who are you?"
"You can call me, the book of monsters! I'm basically an encyclopedia of any fiery lava monster you could ever want, pretty interesting right? Even better, if you use one of those staffs lined up in that basket you can summon them!" The book spoke, as Jestro didn't believe a word of what it was saying. "Trust me jokes, it's fun.. I'm sure you'll love it." It continued, as Jestro sighed and moved the book on to the floor.
"This is ridiculous, why would I honestly think monsters would pop out.. this isn't an adult sized pop out picture book." Jestro spoke, grabbing one of the staffs from the basket. "But.. I'm trusting you here."
With one wave, Jestro summoned 10 small lava blobs which started jumping around like crazy. "Uh.. okay, that's it? Sounds pretty boring to me.. what did you want to talk about exactly?"
"That Moorington, he probably thinks you're not cut out for anything.. don't you think?" The book spoke, as Jestro looked confused. "They've already replaced you with new, better friends." It continued, as Jestro thought about what it was saying for a moment.
"The new knights.. they're not his new friends, Clay never liked making new friends." They responded, as they continued thinking.. Clay wouldn't just replace them.. would he? "He would never replace me, he missed me.. he said so himself."
"Think about it clown, why on earth would he miss somebody who abandoned him. Left him behind with no remorse. You really think the knight in shining armour has time for a NOBODY like you? Don't be ridiculous."
Jestro didn't want to believe it, Clay would never do such a thing.. he wouldn't see Jestro as worthless, not after what happened before their performance. As they looked up and saw Clay standing in the doorway of the library, they looked different.. terrified. "Clay, hey.. I can explain."
"Monsters.. what, but.. how?" He muttered, gripping his sword tightly in his hands not really sure what to do. "Jestro, I wanted to apologise.. for what I said." He spoke with tension in his voice, not daring to take a step closer.
"I.. shouldn't have assumed you'd want to try again. But I can't just watch you give up." He continued, watching Jestro's face with caution. "It was foolish of me, I understand.."
"Foolish is a word yes, but you act like you haven't replaced Jestro here with new friends." The book intercepted, as Clay was stunned.. the book was speaking, which only left them confused.
"New friends? No, the knights aren't my new friends.. they won't ever replace Jestro.. stop putting thoughts into their head." Clay defended themself, tightening the grip on their sword. "Why would I ever replace them??"
"Because you blame them for leaving the academy, don't you? You want to get back at them, for leaving you behind." The book argued back, as it refused to let Clay speak. "You just can't handle it, you know.. it's funny, you've always seen yourself as better haven't you?"
"I.. no, I.. why would I?" Clay stumbled backwards, as Jestro's voice cut in.
"You do don't you? You see yourself as superior because you've graduated? I don't understand Clay, am I just not good enough for you?" They asked walking over to Clay and looking into his eyes. "Maybe, you'd appreciate it if we were on different sides, if I gave you a reason to keep chasing after me." They spoke, suddenly kissing Clay's mouth with no hesitation.
"If you want to play the hero, your story needs a villain doesn't it? Let that role go to me." They spoke, leaving Clay near the wall, speechless. "Because really, we're only playing pretend aren't we? It's not impacting us.." they continued, as Clay stood hesitantly.
"I.. no that's not what I want, that's not what YOU want either." Clay spoke finally, his voice cracking as he tried not to cry.. tried to ignore what was happening. "You don't want to be the villain, because you're not one.. your my friend.." he continued, as he didn't dare move any more.
Jestro looked at Clay once again, before walking back over to the book that was laying on the floor. As they decided to summon more monsters, nothing that would harm Clay too much.. but enough to put up some sort of worthy fight, what they didn't expect were two absolutely massive lava monsters coming out. Which suddenly made them come to the realisation that they were probably going to hurt Clay.. and they really didn't want that. All they could do was watch as the big red one grabbed Clay and basically threw him back into the wall of the library head first, it worried them.. they didn't want to kill him.
"CLAY." Jestro wanted to stop them, but he'd already pushed himself way too deep to pull himself out again. They watched as Clay forced himself up, his head and nose dripping with blood from the impact. "Don't hurt him, I.. didn't mean for this." They muttered, as Clay wiped their nose and grabbed his sword again.
"You.. really don't want us to be friends anymore do you?" Clay's body faltered, as he struggled to keep his balance. "I won't let that happen Jestro.. I'm not losing you again." They continued, before their knees hit the library floor. He could barely focus, as his eyes kept blurring.. but if he couldn't confess now, he'd never get the chance again. As he suddenly realised Merlok standing behind him, a cold aura that he'd never experienced before.
"Merlok.. no.." Clay tried to stand, only for Merlok to kneel down and put a hand on Clay's chin. "Please.. don't hurt them."
"Oh.. Clay, my dear.. I promise not too." Merlok spoke, wiping Clay's nose with his hand as if Clay was once again a child who had hurt himself. "I have things I haven't told you yet my boy.. no, Clay you're my son.. everything I could ever wish for. But when the time is right, I want you to find input in your heart.. wherever it may be when the truth comes to be, to forgive me. For what happens here, and for everything I hold away from you right now. Understand, that I simply want to protect you." He spoke, as he stood up and used his magic to force Clay out. Away from what was about to happen.
Merlok tried to ignore Clay's weak pounding on the library door.. before realising he had collapsed from the exhaustion, the pain. "I'm so sorry for this Clay.." he muttered, before slamming his staff onto the floor of the library.
Knightonia - Royal tower library - outside
The explosion went far.. as the knights all stood outside of the tower library on the balcony. The explosion caught them all off guard, but when they saw Clay laying on the floor near the door, they immediately had a guess of what had happened. As Lance looked at him, and immediately grabbed one of his gloves.. they were replaceable, it didn't bother him. As he tore it enough to wipe Clay's face down.
"Clay.. Clay can you hear us?" Aaron asked, as Lance licked his glove and wiped Clay's nose gently. "Lance, maybe give him some space.." he muttered, as Lance eventually stood up.
"He.. he's still breathing, but he looks awful." Lance admitted, as Axl helped sit him up properly on the tiled flooring. "Is.. Merlok gone then?" He asked, looking at Macy as if she had an answer for him.
"I.. don't know, I really don't know Lance.." Macy had tears rolling down her cheeks, as Aaron pat her shoulder. "Clay's.. Clay's father, he.. sacrificed himself for Clay.. what the hell even happened??" She asked, noticing Clay's blood on the door from what she assumed was him trying to break into the library.
"He.. Clay.. please, we need to understand." Aaron muttered under his breath, as Lance ran a hand through his hair and gave a confused expression, hoping that one of them may have an answer, but none of them did.. none of them knew what was happening, except Clay.. and he wasn't even awake to explain it.
The knights stood silently for a minute, looking at the door of the library.. then looking back at Clay. Something serious was happening, and until they had Clay.. they didn't know what to do. They were left in the dark, which wasn't where they wanted to be .. but until then had Clay, until they had an explanation.. what else were they supposed to do? Take a blind guess and hope they were right? It was ridiculous, and a stupid move, yet they had no other move forward. They just hoped that when Clay woke up, they would have a clear explanation.
Knighton - ???
Jestro coughed when they opened their eyes, their head hurt and they didn't know what was going on. The last thing they remembered, was the library.. seeing Clay bleeding. He felt guilty, ashamed.. everything that he couldn't comprehend, it was painful. As they noticed the book laying next to them, yet had nothing to say.. not when they were too ashamed to say anything.
"You know what kid, you're good a this bad stuff." It spoke, as Jestro layed down on the grass again. "You really put Moorington in his place didn't you?"
"Not like I wanted to.. I feel awful." Jestro responded, stretching their arm out. "Are we stuck together now?"
"Eh, I suppose so.. so you're going to have to deal with it.. and I'm gonna teach you how to be bad." It replied, laughing as Jestro put their arm down and sighed. "Don't worry jokes, it's not going to be that good.. I'll be simple, and you'll keep wanting the thrill."
"I'm already this deep.. fine, what do we have to do.." Jestro sighed, as they looked at the book.
"Oh trust me.. it's going to be fun."
Jestro didn't know what they got themself into.. they didn't want to ask, and now.. they feared they had just become the actual villain towards their best friend, they really had lost everything. All because they weren't good at anything, because they wanted to be good at something. They were now, but not really what they wanted..in fact, it was the complete opposite of what they actually wanted.