Part 573: Frederick A

Ah, Cherche. Perfect timing. Do you know where I might find Virion?

No. And wouldn't bother trying to look for him, either. Knowing him, he's probably off whispering sweet nonsense into some poor maid's ear.

But we are to be marching soon! Will he be ready in time?

Oh, probably. I'm getting his equipment ready as we speak.

That is very loyal of you, especially considering what a cad he is. I think you could teach me a thing or two about serving one's lord!

I told you, he is no longer my lord. And besides, you are the very paragon of loyal and chivalrous knighthood. None can compare to you when it comes to knightly virtues.

You are far too kind. Yet when I see how devoted you are, it humbles me somehow.

How so?

Hear me, Cherche. For a knight, loyalty is the primary virtue. But to what--or to whom--should it be directed?

To the realm, I suppose. Your liege lord's domain.

And if that realm is destroyed?

Well, er...

The knight's vow of loyalty still holds, but it is directed not to the land.

Nor is it to a castle, or to a town, or any particular place. The vow is to the people who make up the realm. As a knight, you owe fealty to Virion and the smallfolk of his domain.

You understand this and act accordingly. It is an honor to fight alongside you.

Well, well! High praise indeed, coming from the famous Frederick!

But in all seriousness, thank you. And I may say, it is an inestimable honor to fight in the same army as you.

Then that we may both continue to fight bravely, and until victory!

Shoulder to shoulder!