<span class="mu-s"> "Sire, I can only humbly thank you for that great honor. But let me tell you about the deeds of my worthy companions... </span>
>>5410729- <span class="mu-s"> <span class="mu-b"> And what about you, Guillot? </span> </span>
- Nah, nah. I won't give you stone for you to throw back at me with promotion engraved on them.
- <span class="mu-s"> <span class="mu-b"> Fair!" </span> </span> , the King laughs.
Hector decided to unwrap his shield, too. Most of the knight glanced at it, and got back to their sweets, apple compote, before ending the meal with cheese.
However, the young Banneret felt the stares of the dukes, and the King, only man wearing a sword, put hand on his wrapped pommel for one second. The situation immediately defuse when the King see Hector's confusion.
Feast ends, and everyone bids farewell, returning to their own accommodations. Next morning, lords will head back to their castles and errant will continue their quest for glory.
Before falling into sweet rest in the Mother's watchful gaze and protective arms, three of your knights desire to talk to you.
First, Pauline.
"Sir, I wanted to express my grateful thanks. You are a good leader. Now I can bear my name of Haras, let me solemnly require to choose us for breeding Vaillant with mares, when he'll be of age."
Then, Mathias :
"You taught me a lot, Hector. Mostly, Knighthood and bravery are not synonyms of stupidity and recklessness. Disengage, regroup, and retreats are not dishonorable but common sense.
As you noticed, I have shackles of my own. I'll never shine as brightly as you if I remain in your squad, I know my own limits. But I need worthy feats to position myself toward inheriting the duchy one day.
That's why I will go on my own way starting tomorrow. I'll never forget our link as brother at arms."
On one hand, Hector regret the soon departure of his most battle-able knight. On another hand, Hector won't permit Mathias to leave alone : that would be a huge faux-pas, and the pack is on the bigger size with the three new recruits.
Plus, Mathias is on his own quest to become Duke. If Hector manage to help him by providing men for his errance, that would open diplomatic ties in the future.
Last, René :
"Thank you sir for commending my actions in front of the King himself. I'm really grateful you're the pack leader, and that role didn't fall in the hands of, say, Eugene."
More surprisingly, the small-framed knight goes for a hug. That was a bit uncalled, which René notice, steps back, blushes and goes away. Hector is not sure how he feels about that.
