Murmurs began spreading through the crowd, but Lackcomb focused only on the knight standing before him. “The champions of this tourney have already been decided, sir. I fear you are too late.”

Sir Tillory looked the Grand Master in the eyes. “I have heard that the tourney was open to all who might wish to enter, including the squires.” His voice was even and steady with no hint of irritation. “All I ask is a chance to win the prize as is my right as a sworn brother of this Order.”

“The tourney is near an end. The Knights Errant must return to their questing ere long. We cannot delay this decision further.”

“Nor do I wish to,” Sir Tillory said placidly.

“Very well,” Lackcomb replied. “But you shall have to defeat both champions to win the prize and you look hard used.”

“I will fight as I am.”

“Very well. Whom will you challenge?”

Sir Tillory turned and faced the would-be champions. After a moment he turned back. “I do not know the youth. I shall fight the Dread Cockerel.”

The crowd buzzed and Lackcomb nodded. Sir Tillory stuck his spear into the earth and removed his sword belt, doffing the stained surcoat as well. “Might I have use of those, my old teacher?” he asked the Old Goose, motioning to the arms he still carried. The Old Goose smiled and helped Sir Tillory into the breastplate. The knight took the tourney sword, but refused the shield and saluted the Grand Master before walking out to where the champions stood.

Flyn hesitated a moment, reluctant to leave the field, but after a moment he gave ground. It was the first time Pocket had seen him without a smile. The Dread Cockerel stood stark still, his face giving no hint as to his feelings regarding this new adversary.

Sir Tillory circled to the left, his legs spread, sword at the ready. The Dread Cockerel only turned in place, keeping his opponent in view. Sir Tillory was the broader of the two, but the Cockerel towered over him. Sir Tillory would need every inch of the tourney sword’s length to get past the reach of that ghastly cudgel. Pocket set his jaw and resolved not to blink.