Chapter 21: The Path Back Home

Vincent arrives at the tower, which is located a little southwest from the village, past noonday. Inside most of the knights present are located in the main hall enjoying conversations and drinks including his former mentor Sir Rollrick.

He is the leader of the knights including the royal knights which he is a member of as well. Meaning he also spent a significant time at the castle as well from time to time. He is a rough, battle scarred man of average stature whose experience shows through his age.

Vincent approaches him steadfastly with his victim in hand. Sir Rollrick spots him as he nears.

"Well, well, if it isn't Vincent. What have you brought to use today?", he says welcoming. Vincent drops the man to the floor.

"First a successful report on my last assignment.", Vincent says bowing respectfully. "However, secondly I bring dire news.", Vincent goes on. Everyone knows Vincent isn't the kind of person to make such statements lightly.

Sir Rollrick's expression grows serious and even those nearby who hears him stop what they're doing and listens. With a nod from his former teacher Vincent goes on. "A man came to me while I was about to depart from the village and told me a band of bandits are terrorizing him and a whole portion of the kingdom not far from the capital. They force the people to pay retributions to them and threaten them with death if they don't.

"It also seems they've taken control of the area by not allowing those who live there to leave. If they do they hunt them down to kill them before they can say anything. That is what this man here attempted to do to the old man, but failed.", Vincent says while gesturing to the guy he brought in with him. Sir Rollrick listens with care, but it is another who speaks first.

"I remember hearing rumors from some travelers about some bandits that were "controlling" the people in a certain part of the kingdom, but I thought they were just exaggerating.", the knight speaks.

"It appears not and it also seems that the city of Gordowe is at the center of it all. The bandits have completely taken over there according to the old man, but I'm afraid that's all I know.", Vincent says.

"I suppose that is the reason you brought him here; for information?", Sir Rollrick says addressing Vincent. Vincent nods. Sir Rollrick rises out of his chair to address everyone in the hall. "This is indeed a dire situation and one that we must act immediately upon!", he begins. "You two take this retch to the dungeon and tell them to start getting information from him. I want to know everything he knows.", he says to two knights nearby. "Alert all other knights in the field as well. Tell them to be prepared at a moment's notice to act.", he goes on.

"Yes, sir!", comes a unified reply. Immediately those with orders begin to carry them out. As the bandit is lead away Sir Rollrick approaches Vincent directly.

"Vincent... You know full well that if the magnitude of this problem is true the monarch will also become involved, but I want them to know even before then. Therefore, I need you to be the one to report this. After that remain there and be the go between for the knights and the king.", he tells Vincent.

"Yes, sir, but are you sure I should be the one to go?", Vincent replies.

"I thought you would welcome the opportunity to see your friend again considering you haven't seen the prince since he knighted you and before that you two weren't allowed to see each other. But if you have your doubts-"

"No sir. I understand.", Vincent says hastily. Sir Rollrick gives him an approving nod.

"I want you to leave as soon as possible."

Vincent decides to leave early the next morning, for if he were to leave now it would be nightfall.