Authors note: This was inspired by an anecdote that is told in my story 'Hypothermia', which was in turn inspired by two of the 'Whumptober' prompts.

Don't read this if you need cheering up, it's all a bit sad.

The whumpage is aimed at Aramis and Athos.

Chapter One

'And how do you propose to improve the cadets who are falling behind in their training?'

Claude paused for a moment before he responded, 'if they show potential - and you would know if there was potential - they could be given one to one training to bring them up to scratch. I've seen you watching Albert and Bret. You know they could do better, but they struggle in the big group sessions. I think some people learn differently to others.'

The cadet hesitated for a moment, Aramis could tell he was worried he had spoken out of turn, but Athos nodded for him to continue.

'When we have training in smaller groups those two always improve. It's not that they can't take orders, they're both really dedicated men, but they get a bit lost in the crowd. I think Bret is a bit shy and struggles to push himself to the front and Albert, he's perhaps a little slower on the uptake, but that's not because he doesn't want to learn, it's just how he is…'

Claude stopped again seeking confirmation from the Musketeers that he was not going to be in trouble.

Aramis was enjoying watching Athos listening intently to the young cadet. Claude had been with them for three months and had proven himself very capable in that short time. He was popular amongst the other cadets and a lot of the commissioned men. When he had arrived, he had been shy and had found it difficult to put himself forward. But when he had sparred with Athos and shown his natural ability with the sword he had gone up in the estimations of a lot of the men. His confidence had grown quickly leading to him being one of the most efficient fighters and the best swordsman within the cadets.

The young man had been granted permission to patrol with the commissioned men by Treville, a duty that was not often given to cadets who were usually only allowed static guard duty if they were given work outside the garrison at all.

He had been with Aramis and Athos for a few hours patrolling the streets of the city. They had broken up a skirmish between two market traders and dissuaded three young visitors to the city from going with a comely woman who clearly had nefarious ideas with a burly man waiting to rob the visitors. Claude had helped in both instances. The young man had not been in the way or stood back and watched as was often the case with cadets.

Now they were slowly making their way back to the garrison and what would be a welcome hot meal. Athos had instigated the conversation, much to Aramis' amusement. The cadet had mentioned a few times to his peers that he could think of a few ways to improve the training and he had consoled Albert and Bret after they had been given a dressing down by Treville for their inability to keep up in a training session.

Athos had said afterwards that he was impressed with Claude for not shunning the two cadets as some of the others had done. Claude had even offered to help them both himself. Aramis wondered if Athos wanted to mentor the cadet, to help to shape him further into the no doubt fine Musketeer he would become. The usually stoic and quiet man had become quite friendly with Claude over the last couple of weeks as the cadet continued his training.

The cold weather had started to drive the citizens of Paris into their homes, the streets were rapidly emptying as the three men continued on their way. Aramis was content to let his friend and Claude continue their conversation about the best manner to train the potential Musketeers.

The tall, curly-haired cadet was walking with Athos whilst Aramis walked a couple of paces behind as they made their way along one of the narrower streets. Claude was quite expressive with his hands as he talked, outlining ways that the training could be improved. His conversation had started in quite a halted, hesitant manner, but with each bit of encouragement, Claude had warmed to his subject. It was obvious the young man had put thought into what he was saying.

Athos' reactions were positive, he occasionally pointed out where one of Claude's ideas could not be put into practice, but he did not admonish the youth in any way. The conversation was not one-sided, the two men were exchanging ideas within a few minutes. Aramis was starting to think he might need to excuse himself and leave Claude and Athos to the strategising.

Aramis glanced up when he realised it was raining, the first few spots were splashing on the cobbles. They were still at least thirty minutes' walk to the garrison, Aramis frowned, he knew that even if they walked faster they were likely to be soaked by the time they were undercover. They were expected back so could not seek shelter in a tavern. He hoped the fire in the mess had been built up and that Serge had cooked up something hot and filling for their evening meal.

The Musketeer and the Cadet in front of him seemed oblivious to the weather. Athos was making a few suggestions on the direction of the training to Claude, who was listing which of the other cadets he thought were ready to move onto the next stage of their training. Aramis chuckled when Claude did not list himself but nodded his approval when the young man told Athos that he knew his own shooting was not good enough. Athos glanced back at Aramis who nodded his agreement. Claude's only weakness was his marksmanship, but Aramis was sure it would improve with time and perhaps by implementing one of Claude's own ideas and giving him someone to one training.

MMMM

Athos knew that Aramis would make some comments about the conversation he was engaged in. But he did not mind, Claude was an interesting young man, his ideas were well thought through and he was happy to accept guidance on improving them. Aramis would imply that Athos was being unusually friendly towards the young man. His friend and Porthos would then spend some time making fun of him for breaking his usual habit of remaining distant from the cadets.

It was true that he preferred not to get too involved with the men, he did not see the point in becoming friendly with them if they were not to gain their commission. There were always several cadets who were disappointed and would be told they were not good enough to be Musketeers and Athos hated to see the upset the decision made. But the Musketeer commissions were hard to come by, the men had to be exceptional to gain them. Claude was going to get his commission, that was a given. Once his shooting improved Athos would be recommending the young man to Treville. His swordsmanship was excellent, he was good at following orders, and was always practising or helping his fellow cadets. The young man was the perfect candidate to become a Musketeer.

Claude seemed oblivious to the rain that had started to fall, the cold drops were hitting him, but he did not react. Athos hid a smile, he wondered if the young man was enjoying the chance to talk so freely that he had forgotten everything else.

Athos noticed that Aramis had quickened his step. His friend slipped his arm over Claude's shoulders and steered him ahead of Athos a few paces. Aramis glanced at Athos and grinned.

'Claude, it is raining, and even if your young bones are unbothered by becoming cold and wet, I, and I am sure Athos, would like to actually get to the garrison before we drown in what is going to be a downpour…'

Claude looked around as if noticing how dark it had become for the first time.

'Sorry,' he said.

'Let's get back to the garrison,' said Athos from behind them, 'we can continue our conversation over dinner.'

Claude positively beamed at the idea of sharing a table with the two men. Aramis glanced back at him again, Athos could almost see the jibes forming in his friend's mind as they quickened their step.

Aramis led them down a narrow street, the houses crowding together, blocking the worst of the rain which was getting heavier.

When Aramis stopped suddenly and looked to his left Athos knew something was amiss. Claude followed Aramis' gaze and took a couple of steps forward, Aramis followed him. Athos was about to alter his own direction when a thud behind him made him turn.

A heavy looking sack had landed a few feet behind him. Athos looked up, wondering where the sack had come from. He was ready to remonstrate with whoever had dropped the bag in such a dangerous manner. There were no open windows that he could see. He stepped towards the bag and looked at it more closely, it was only loosely tied, he undid the rope and peered inside, it was filled with dirt. Athos could not work out where the bag had come from or why it had been dropped where it had.

It was not until he heard a muffled shout and the scrape of metal on stone that he realised the fallen sack was a distraction. He turned in time to see Aramis and Claude surrounded by men. As he moved forward, three men broke away and turned towards him. Athos pulled his gun. As he raised the weapon towards the advancing men he was attacked from the side and pushed into the opposite wall. The man that had attacked him, grabbed at his wrist squeezing hard, twisting his arm in an attempt to get him to let go of the gun. The men who had turned towards him advanced quickly, carefully keeping out of the way of the gun. One of the men helped Athos' attacked to relive Athos of his gun, the big, scruffy man flipped the gun in his hand and used it to club Athos hard across the face.

Stunned, Athos found he could not continue to try to force the man who was pinning him to the wall off him anymore. The man who had clubbed him grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him away from the wall. The first man pushed him backwards. Athos stumbled, catching his feet on the uneven cobbles. As he crashed to the ground, he saw the man who had taken his gun turn it to face him. Even with his vision still swimming from the strike he had taken, he knew he had to get out of the line of fire. Concentrating on regaining his footing, Athos twisted over and pulled himself up to stand. The gun was fired as he started to run, the ball sliced into his hip. Athos yelled in pain but kept moving.

The man who had shot him laughed, a gruff deep laugh. Athos glanced back, none of the men were following him, he wondered if they thought the injuries they had dealt him were more serious. Athos knew he would suffer for the gunshot wound as he pressed his hand against it. He could not assess its seriousness, but he knew it would prevent him from helping Aramis and Claude. There were far too many men for the three of them to deal with, let along him on his own carrying injuries. Athos caught the briefest of glimpses of Claude pushing one of the men back as he drew his sword, a determined look on his face. Athos could not see Aramis, who was probably further into the alleyway.

Regretfully, Athos stumbled away, he knew he could do nothing to help Aramis and Claude. He had been hit, the pain radiating out told him he would likely pass out in a matter of minutes. The only way he could help his friends was to reach the garrison and get reinforcements.

Athos only hoped he would reach that safety before he passed out.

MMMM

Claude had almost bumped into Aramis when he stopped. The cadet had muttered an apology as Aramis held up his hand to quieten him. He looked into the dim alleyway for a few seconds, before walking forward. Aramis was sure he had seen something odd. He could not really work out what was out of place, but it needed investigating whatever it was. Claude stayed by his side as they walked along the side alleyway.

The darker alleyway was more oppressive than the narrow lane they had turned off. There did not appear to be any doorways opening onto it but a few kinks in the walls gave the gloomy pathway several hiding places. Aramis was on his guard, he slipped his gun from its holster as he walked, he was pleased to note Claude doing the same. The cadet might not have been the best shot in the garrison, but he would still be better than most people.

'What did you see?' whispered Claude as they walked a few yards into the alleyway.

Aramis shook his head indicating he was not sure. Claude took the hint and did not question him further.

A footfall behind them made Aramis turn in time to see a big man about to grab Claude. The cadet's eyes went wide as the big man's arms encircled him pulling him back quickly and twisting him around. Aramis could not aim his gun at the attacker whilst he was struggling with Claude who had regained his composure enough to fight back. Aramis reached forward to grab at the attacker, but his attempt was stopped by more thuggish men grabbing him. As he was pulled back, he saw another man move towards Claude who could not hide the fear as he was swung around again and forced against the wall.

As the men who were attacking him blocked his view, Aramis tried to see beyond Claude for any sign of Athos. His friend had been a few yards behind them in the narrow street. Aramis did not have time to wonder what had happened to Athos as he was punched in the stomach. Unable to prevent his reaction Aramis doubled over, his gun was grabbed from his hand as he felt more hands on him. Despite his best effort, Aramis could not stop himself from being tripped to the floor. There were just too many men for them to deal with.

All thoughts of what the men had been up to were pushed to the back of his mind as Aramis tried to get back up. A kick to his chest caused Aramis to gasp as the air was knocked out of him. One of the attackers stamped on his knee before kicking him in the shin. Aramis did not think he would be able to stand after further kicks were aimed at him. All he could do was try to prevent the men from kicking his head and chest.

As the assault continued Aramis was aware of his weapons and money bag being roughly pulled from him, he vainly tried to prevent his weapons being taken but was punched again for his troubles.

The attackers did not seem to want to kill him, only beat him enough to prevent him from pursuing them. Aramis was well aware he would not be pursuing anyone for a while, he knew he would not be able to get up, he knew he was lucky to still be conscious.

MMMM

Breathing hard and struggling to take each step, Athos closed in on the garrison. He knew Porthos was on watch, he had lost a bet with a couple of the other men and been lumbered with two nights in a row watching the gate. All Athos needed to do was reach the gate, or at least get within earshot of his friend. Athos kept his hand pressed to his hip, the wound was still bleeding, each step he took pulled at it. He knew the ball had not become lodged in his skin, he was sure it had simply grazed over his hip, but the damage was enough that he was severely inhibited. He could not run; all Athos could manage was a stumbled walk.

The rain was getting heavier, Athos had lost his hat in the fight leaving him with nothing to keep the water off his face. His already unfocused vision was being further compromised by the thick drops of water splashing in his eyes.

He knew he had to get help to his friends quickly and the only way he could do that was to reach the garrison. The cold weather would not help Aramis and Claude if they were injured.

The streets were empty as the downpour grew heavier, even the beggars had hidden themselves away, curling up in corners and under stairs. There was no help for Athos as he continued his inelegant stumble towards the only help he could guarantee.

If he did not manage to reach the garrison, he could not get help for Aramis and Claude. His friend and the young cadet had been surrounded by their attackers, Athos had no idea what the scruffy men had wanted. They had not tried to steal from him, although he had run from them, perhaps the attackers did not think he was worth pursuing. Trying to work out what the men wanted, kept Athos distracted from the pain he was in.

He shivered, the cold rain was dripping down off his hair and trickling inside his doublet. The thought of his friends being left exposed to the elements spurred Athos on. The young cadet did not deserve what had happened to him. He was too promising to be cut down in what was probably not much more than a street robbery. Athos hoped his friends were still alive, he had no way of knowing what state they were in. His last image of Claude haunted him, the young man had looked determined in his task. But his determination was misplaced, they were woefully outnumbered. Claude would not have been able to deal with all the men that had been surrounding him. And Athos had no idea what might have befallen Aramis in the attack.

Were the two men already dead? Had they been taken for some reason?

Athos wished he knew what had happened. He wished he had not been injured and was able to help his friends.

But he was injured. He could not undo what had happened.

Athos stumbled on.

MMMM

Gradually the men disappeared, Aramis was aware of them running off. As the last man slipped away Aramis managed to push himself up slightly to look for Athos and Claude.

There was no sign of Athos, but Claude was stood a few yards away staring in the direction that the last man had gone. Claude wavered slightly, he was clutching at his side with one hand, his gun held loosely in his other hand. As Aramis watched, the gun slipped from his hand and clattered to the ground. Claude looked down at the fallen gun vacantly.

'Claude?'

Aramis waited for a response, but the cadet did not move. He continued to stare at the fallen gun.

'Claude, you need to come over here.'

Painfully slowly Claude turned to look at him, as the cadet moved, Aramis saw the blood seeping around the fingers of his gloves. Claude had clearly been injured in the fight, but did not seem aware enough to act appropriately. The cadet blinked a few times and wavered again. Aramis knew he had to get the young man to come to him. With difficulty he eased himself into a sitting position, the pain in his leg left Aramis panting for several seconds. When he could focus again Aramis looked up to see Claude taking shaky steps towards him, the cadet was pale, even in the dimly lit passage Aramis could see he was close to collapse.

Claude reached Aramis and managed to sink to his knees.

'Sorry,' he said, 'I think I might have cracked ribs.'

'That's alright,' said Aramis, before closing his eyes for a few seconds as the pain from his knee threatened to overwhelm him.

'What should I do?' asked Claude.

Aramis looked at the cadet for a few seconds before he realised that Claude did not know he was injured.

'We need to get help,' said Aramis, looking along the alleyway, wondering again what had happened to Athos.

'Should I go? Can you get up?'

'Claude, you're injured…'

Claude looked down at his hand. He paused for a few seconds before looking back up, confusion in his eyes.

Aramis started to undo the sash from his waist, he knew he needed to bind the wound the Cadet carried.

'Let me see it, we'll get a temporary bandage on it, then we'll work out what to do next.'

Claude slowly undid his light brown doublet and pulled it away from the injury. Aramis tried to lean forward to get a better look, but the action sent waves of pain through him, it was several seconds before he was able to orientate himself again. Claude had his hand on Aramis' shoulder keeping him steady.

'I'm fine,' said Aramis after what felt like minutes, but he knew was only seconds.

Claude released him and shuffled around to sit beside him, pulling his shirt up to aid Aramis' examination.

'I've not been injured before,' said Claude, 'will I be scarred? I'd rather have got a scar in battle, not during a robbery...that we lost.'

Aramis managed a smile at the cadet's rueful joke. He looked at the wound which was bleeding sluggishly, Claude did not seem to have lost much blood, enough for the injury to look dramatic, but not enough to leave him too weakened. Aramis guessed the cadet was shocked at the events which would explain why he appeared to be struggling to stay conscious. The wound would need a few stitches, but otherwise, the young man would be fine. Aramis was relieved, they had got off lightly.

As he helped Claude to wrap the blue sash around the wound Aramis looked along the alleyway again.

'Athos!'

He called out several times but got no response.

'You'll have to get help Claude,' said Aramis as he tied the sash, 'I can't get up, they kicked me and stamped on my knee...Claude?'

Aramis shook the cadet's arm, Claude's head had dipped forward, his eyes slowly closing.

'Tired…'

The single word response worried Aramis greatly, Claude's injury was not severe, he could not work out what was wrong with the young man.

MMMM