A decidedly solemn walk befell Sir Garrett. Separated from his beloved now to be struck with some disgrace. The slow march deepened the worries that the separation might be a permanent one. He recognized the hall as leading to the throne where King Emeril waited to issue punishment. Sir Garrett’s loyalty to King Emeril above reproach but that meant little to the King. King Emeril only cared how useful a subject was. Lately Sir Garrett led the other knights of to challenge some of the King’s policies. Sir Garrett did this out of loyalty to the honor of the kingdom but King Emeril thought of him as a threat now. King Emeril looked down upon a former commoner marrying his daughter. Through his daughter Emeril might achieve important alliances. Her marrying Sir Garrett got him little. Sir Garrett expected no mercy as he entered the grand throne room.
King Emeril sat on his ornate throne glowering at Sir Garrett as the guards forced the paladin to his knees. The King spoke with the authority of his position, “Sir Garrett you abused my trust in you by kidnapping my beautiful daughter Fina. I cannot condone such actions and you leave me in difficult position of punishing you. There are those in the silver order that heed your words. I impede you to write a letter to your fellow knights guiding them to the righteousness of obeying my will. It will weigh in your favor. What say you?”
Sir Garrett considered the offer but refused to give in to King Emeril’s false offer. Emeril only wished to further his ends with such a letter. Sir Garrett honor demanded that he not lead his fellow knights astray. He remained convinced that King Emeril intended him ill no matter his decision. The paladin answered, “My honor forbids me to accede to your request.”
King Emeril appeared disappointed but not surprised. One of many gambits that didn’t pay off this time. He spoke solemnly, “I am sorry to find you so belligerent. Guards take him away till punishment can be implemented. If you change your mind on the letter I will have paper and ink left for you.”
