Before the two knights in the back could utter a single word the burly man in front had already rushed the outsider, ramming him into the wall with a loud thud. The knights could only see the outsider held firmly against the wall and the behemoth of a mans back.
The air grew cold.
‘For someone who insists to be left alone to wallow in his own self pity you have this uncanny knack for letting your tongue flap needlessly in the wind.’ The man whispered only loud enough for the outsider to hear.
‘I do remember saying that I prefer solitude. But Oldman... did I ever say I’d compromise on my morals?’ Said the outsider as his feet dangled in the air a good distance off the ground.
‘You have morals now do you?’
‘Ha… I guess I deserve that. But know this Oldman… I will never bow down before anyone unless find them trustworthy. Now given the kings reputation in this Kingdom he almost makes the cut. Almost!’ Said the outsider with a certain sharpness in his voice.
The knights finally came out of their daze and reached for their swords, pulling them from there sheaths. They were on guard as they took their first step forward, however before they could advance any further the two before them started laughing.
“Ha, ha… that was a good one Oldman if the youngsters here couldn’t even react in time to silence a man who besmirched the good name of your King, then they’ve got a lot to learn, don’t they.” Exclaimed the outsider.
This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.
The Oldman pulled the outsider from the wall and turned to face the two. Placing him on the floor he then dusted him off and put his arm playfully on his shoulder revealing a wide grin. It made for an odd scene given the contrast in height.
“Indeed, though I thought them to be seasoned enough to handle this little test. Seems they still need more time.” The Oldman said with a tinge of regret.
The two knights appeared crestfallen as they sheathed their swords.
“We are terribly sorry we could not meet your expectations, commander!” The two said in unison as they bowed deeply.
The outsider cast an inquisitive look the Oldman’s way.
The Oldman laughed to himself, producing a hearty chuckle. “Raise your heads, that is a time long since past… Now Martha why don’t you help the outsider gather his necessary supplies so you can make way to the palace.”
The two raised their heads and knight on the right nodded in response.
Martha as she was called was fit for her small stature. Her silver hair poked out from underneath her full faced helmet, of which revealed the freckles on her pale skin. Her armor was noticeably different from her counterpart, while his seemed to focus on defense hers seemed intent not restricting movement.
“Now listen her Oldman, I may look cripple but I can still give you a run for your mon –”
“Did I ever say anything of the sort outsider? Now give in and let Martha help you, It’s not very often a women as beautiful as her would give a cripple such as yourself the time of day.” Said the Oldman as he interrupted him.
The outsider brought his hand to his chin, seemingly in deep thought as he looked Martha up and down.
She could feel herself get chills everywhere his eyes dared to look at her. “Commander may –”
Before she could back out the outsider but in. “He he, alright Oldman I’ll take your offer.”
A playful smile errupted on the outsiders face.