“Quiet yourself, Benat,” Varlius snapped, “you could not have predicted this.”

Benat frowned at Varlius’ lack of respect. The younger knight was usually better at knowing his place, but at that moment, his temper had the best of him.



“It would be wise to watch your words, scarecrow,” the lord said. “After all, who do you think the king will appoint head of the knights now that Zeroun has revealed his true nature?”

Eustathios wanted to speak, but decided it would be unwise to upset the lord further. Instead, he walked past Benat, with Varlius and Rinan behind him.