"You have still not told me what this woman has done, nor have you indicated why you think she is here. Until you have provided that information, I will deny you access to this mission."

"Tread carefully, Brother..."

"Cyric," he responded, "and I walk where others fear to tread. You will answer my questions or be denied access."

"Very well, Brother Cyric," the man responded. "The woman has run away from her family, and they are seeking her safe return. There is a reward posted for her recovery."

"And if this woman does not wish to return to her family?"

"It is of no consequence to us. We are to make sure her family's wishes are met."

"How is it," asked Cyric, "that Temple Knights are being used to retrieve a wayward daughter. Surely you are beneath such things."

"It is at the request of Lady Arabel Calderra. I believe you've met?"

"I have," Cyric admitted, "though I'm at a loss as to why she thinks this woman might be here."

"You travelled with this woman, did you not? Her, and her companion?"

"I did," he confirmed, "what of it?"

"Lady Calderra seems to think you may be harbouring them. What have you to say for yourself?"

Cyric stood back, letting the door open the rest of the way. "You are free to come and look for yourself, Brother Septimus, but I'm confident you won't find them here."

The Cunar stepped forward, pushing his way past. "We shall see, Brother Cyric. If you're found to be harbouring these criminals, you'll stand before a Church tribunal."

"I would welcome it," said Cyric, "for I have nothing to be ashamed of. Can you say the same?"

Brother Septimus turned on him suddenly, glaring at him. "Watch that tongue of yours, Brother, or I shall wipe the smile from your face."

"You are welcome to try, Brother," said Cyric, his face showing no emotion.

The Cunar was quick, but Cyric was faster. Septimus started to draw his sword, but less than half his blade was clear of the scabbard when Cyric struck. The palm of the Mathewite's hand crashed into the man's nose, knocking him off balance and causing blood to pour forth. Cyric followed with a kick to the Cunar's knee, and then his target crumpled to the floor. Before the other knights could react, Cyric leaned down, taking Septimus's blade from the scabbard and holding it at the man's throat.

"Back up," the Mathewite commanded, looking to the other Cunars. They did as he bid, then he turned his attention back to the one on the floor. "This is Holy land," Cyric said, "sanctified by Holy Fathers. If you want to search this mission, you'll need a written request from the Archprior himself. To cross that line is to bring the wrath of the Church down on your head. Do you understand me?"

Septimus nodded, but Cyric recognized the look of hate in his eyes.