Forest Kingdom Trilogy 2 - Blood and Honor

lives at risk. But that was as far as his thinking had gone. He had no training in politics, or the art of ruling. His only experience of Courts had been acting before them. And what he knew about enforcing the laws of the land could probably be engraved on his left thumbnail without undue difficulty. But he could learn. He had time, and good advisors. He looked at Gawaine, and grinned at him.
    'How does it feel to be a King's Champion, Gawaine?'
    'At my age, somewhat dangerous,' said the knight dryly. 'Not that I don't appreciate the honour, but I
    would have settled for a less risky position, like collecting taxes single-handed, or fighting a dragon with both my legs tied behind my back.'
    'Moan, moan, moan. I've got to have someone in this Court I can turn my back on without wincing, and you're it.' Jordan's smile suddenly faded, and he looked seriously at his Champion. 'Gawaine, you once swore an oath to protect ... a certain man. I killed him. Where does that leave us?'
    'The man who died was not worthy of my oath. I still serve and protect the true Prince Viktor.'
    'Am I supposed to understand any of that?' said Taggert.
    'No,' said Jordan.
    'I thought not.'
    'Thank you, Sir Gawaine,' said Jordan. 'Now, if you don't mind, I'd like a private word or two with my Steward.' 'Of course, Sire.' Gawaine's mouth twitched. 'I'm so glad you agreed to return from exile, your majesty. You've been a new man since you returned to Court.'
    He bowed formally, and then turned and walked chuckling out of the Great Hall.
    'What was all that about?' said Taggert, as the doors closed quietly behind the new Champion.
    'Nothing important,' said Jordan. 'I need to talk to you, Kate.'
    Taggert smiled, and stepped forward to sit on the arm of his throne. 'You can always count on me, Viktor. My life is yours.'
    Jordan grinned back at her, and slipped an arm round her waist. 'I was hoping you'd say something like that.'