The Banners - Part 1

"Aye, that's what we're telling you. You're going to fight him, one way or another. And you're going to put on a show, even if you're going to lose," the guardsman said. "There's coin in it for you, if that's what it takes to sway you."

The man pried a coin pouch out of his belt, and dangled it in front of Gar. When Gar didn't put out his hand to take it, the man grabbed him by the wrist, and forced it into his palm. "Courtesy of Lord Blackwell," he said. "You taking that means you accept the bout, are we in agreement?"

"I fight Oliver Patrick," Gar said firmly.

"You will," the guardsman said. "If you win. You'll be made to fight him. No running."

"No running!" Gar shouted angrily. "Want to fight him now! Stupid soldier, bad fighter, waste of time! Gar wants fight Oliver Patrick!" He stomped his foot angrily to accent his point, sending mud flying.