Hold still, or I will end up cutting you, Rodry said, and kept going, hacking at the ambassadors beard and hair, scraping it away from him. His dagger was sharp, and several times the man cried out as Rodry nicked him, but he kept going. He deserved this, and more than this.

When he was done, the ambassador was all but bald, with cuts and scratches on his skull from Rodrys work.

You, he called out to one of the stable hands. A man like this doesnt deserve a fine horse. Find him a donkey.

Yes, your highness, the young man said, obviously not daring to argue with the prince in this mood. Rodry didnt care if he was frightening at this point. He was a prince protecting his kingdom.

He pointed to one of his companions. This fool tried to bring a prisoners bracelets for my sister, so lets see how he likes it. Find some shackles.

Where would I

In the dungeon, of course, Rodry said.

The ambassador stared up at him. You will pay for this. Your actions here will have consequences.

Rodry shook his head. These are the consequences of your actions. My father was right. What are you going to do? March an army half a dozen at a time across one of the bridges? You came here to do nothing but insult, and Im going to show you up for the fool you are.

The young man hed sent for the donkey came back with one soon enough, and the companion hed sent for shackles arrived shortly after. They were rusted old things, but that was fine by Rodry.

Stand up, he commanded the ambassador. He fitted the shackles to the mans hands himself, then threw him across the saddle of the donkey, as ungainly as a sack.

Set the dead men across their horses, Rodry said. At least they were willing to fight.

Manhandle a dead body? one of his friends, Kay, said. He made a face. Were noblemen, Rodry.

And you keep saying you want to be knights, Rodry reminded the young man. You shouldnt be squeamish about a couple of bodies when youre supposed to be ready for battle.

Youll get all the battles you want and more, the ambassador promised them. Rodry cuffed him around the ear.

Youve talked too much already, he said. Speak again, and Ill stuff your mouth with straw for the ride back. Kay, these three will need someone to see them to the border.

And its to be me? he said. But then Ill miss the wedding, and the dancing. One of Princess Lenores maids has been

If she loves you that much, shell still be here when you get back, Rodry said. Think of it as a knightly task, a quest.

That would impress her… Kay mused aloud. May I take the ambassadors horse?

Rodry shrugged. Its probably best if you do. I doubt my father will be happy about this.