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You think for a moment. Whatever problems you have with his personality your time on the road with him showed Elpest to be a fine warrior. You do not have many men at arms in your small hold, but there is surely room for another. Devoid of trade and without his knightly stipend, you expect Elpest can do no better.
“Alys,” You call. “Do you have a parchment and quill?” She silently approaches and hands you what you ask. You scribble down some directives and seal the letter with your signet upon a red wax seal. A surprised Elpest receives the letter in confusion. You look him in the eyes. “It's a letter of introduction to Captain Laphroaig at Hold Campbell. I'll take you on as a man at arms, he'll see you quartered. I will give you one free morsel of advice Elpest, behave yourself. I keep in correspondence with my mother and sisters and I will be asking after you.”
He pales. “L-lord Uilleam, you are generous, and I accept. But what of Aeflyn?”
“The girl is free and unharmed, Elpest, the Emperor knew her by sight. If you plan to see her again I would go to her soon. You have a fortnight to be gone from here in perpetuity. It's not my business, but I know how close you are. If you can convince her father feel free to take her north with you. Honestly, if you have someone keeping you from making an arse of yourself when you get there I'll sleep better trusting you around my womenfolk. If not, well, you have some days to say your goodbyes.”
Elpest nods vigorously, his look that of a man saved from drowning but unsure of how to get to shore. “I'll go right away, my Lord. Thank you, thank you so much.” He effuses his gratitude at you, and you motion for him to get going. He hurries from the dungeon as you hear Alys giggle at the sight.
“The ever magnanimous Lord Campbell! You save any more wretches or maidens tonight and I might be tempted to swoon.” She says with a sly grin.
You grunt. “If I have to carry you out of here I am not letting you forget it.”
She smiles radiantly. “Why would I want to?”
You scratch the back of your head and turn to the remaining prisoners. “I should let Vera know the Emperor agreed to my terms. Shouldn't leave her in suspense.”
Alys has produced one of her knives and is fiddling with it, cleaning a fingernail you note has no need of such attention. “I won't stop you, Will. I think I am going to find some food before the kitchens are cleared out. Good luck.” You understand she is likely leaving as to not put Vera on edge.
