Amidst the subtle sweep of the cold breeze, the training ground felt tense and heavy with gloom. Eli stood bound to a pole, his back straight though his spirit weighed low.
Eric's boots rapped against the frozen earth, the crunch of snow breaking the stillness as he circled to face the young knight. His gaze was sharp, yet his tone was sharper.
"Do you admit guilt for your offence, Sir Henderson?"
Eli's eyes lowered solemnly, though his voice was steady with confession.
"I do. I neglected my duty, endangered Lady Athillia, and concealed the incident. I have broken the code of the Knighthood of Gerhard."
Eric gave a slow, measured nod.
"At least you recognise your fault. If you already knew, why did you do it?"
The young knight closed his eyes briefly. Athillia's plea for silence echoed in his mind. He could have explained, but to do so would shift the blame upon her, and that he would not allow. He had decided to honour her request, so the responsibility belonged to him alone.
