Chapter Text
The line for an audience with King John was lengthy, even well before high noon. Simon waited patiently, with his helm tucked under his right arm. He could have used his authority as a paladin to jump to the front of the line, but these people had as much need for the king’s ear as Simon did. A finger tapped him on his armored shoulder, twice. Simon turned to see Knight-Instructor Russ. He immediately saluted, causing Russ to frown. “Knight-Instructor, sir. It’s good to see you.”
“Is it? What’s all this ‘sir’ business? Did we not establish last month that you are obligated to follow my orders to drop this nonsense, and you’re to call me Keegan?”
Simon grinned. “Yes, Keegan. I’m back from Orchard Lake and waiting to report to His Majesty and the Royal Cartographer.”
Keegan grimaced. “Yes, I heard about the Cartographer dispatching Sir Keller shortly after you’d left. And about what Alex did in Orchard Lake.”
“Where is he now? I’d like to check in on him.”
“Sequestered at the High Cathedral. He won’t speak to most and he refuses to leave the grounds. He’s not ready to forgive himself yet, and that means he’s still punishing himself. To some degree, he deserves to be miserable, but that won’t make him a better paladin.”
“I was able to mend fences with Orchard Lake and the Task Force after what Keller did. Despite his mistake, the mission was completed.”
“Yes! I heard you took diplomacy to heart. His Majesty will wish to thank you for that, and for coming to an agreement with Orchard Lake about the new trade route. Tell me, paladin: did you learn anything during your mission?”
“Well. You’ll be pleased to hear I’ve taken your advice about forming stronger relationships with people. One person, in particular.”
And to Sir Keegan Russ’ surprise, Simon Riley smiled as he thought once more about Captain John MacTavish.