For King, For God, For Country (scene 2)

For King, For God, For Country

The knight walked toward the tavern and already he could hear the shouts from inside.

He knew his horse would be safe with the Smithy. He knew the man. It wasn’t his first time through this town. Besides, a few extra coppers in the old Smith’s purse would help. He thought about the friends he left on the hill, the ones who wouldn’t be here tonight. How many were left? He couldn’t remember. It seemed like the Old Code Knights were fading and being replaced by younger ones who were only in it for the money and fame. He knew, as long as the King was still alive, it wouldn’t get too bad. But things seemed to be slipping away.

The tavern was full of young Knights, drinking and throwing their weight around,
showing so much disrespect to the same people they were sworn to protect.

One, in particular, was a young barmaid. They were tossing her around like a grain sack and badgering her to sing for them.

The old Knight rose to his feet walked over toward the group. As he approached, he found himself suddenly surrounded by 5 young Knights. Putting his hand on the hilt of his sword, the Knight turned to face his adversaries. One of the young Knights pulled his own sword and said to the man, “You’re outnumbered tonight, old man. So, unless you prefer death to life, I would mind your own.” The old Knight shook his head as he spoke, “You shame King, God, and country and need to learn some manners.”

Just then, the barmaid broke free and ran to the old Knight. “Please sir, I wish no bloodshed tonight. There was enough shed in the field this day. I will sing for these rogues.”

The barmaid lifted her head and sang:

Down by the river’s waters
Under the shady tree
Maidens talk of fighting
Pray their men to victory

The muddy banks below them
The rainy sky above
With Knights upon their horses
Take with them a countries love

They fight for God and country
They fight for Arthur, King
So gallant and so noble
The bards and jesters sing

I say to you ’tis noble
I say to you ’tis right
For the Knights that fight with Arthur
Fight with gallant codes of might

After the song, the old Knight left the tavern. As he was walking down the muddy street, he heard footsteps from behind. When he turned to face whatever was behind him, he saw the barmaid running toward him. “I just wanted to thank you, sir. I’ve heard the stories of the old Knights and their Code. Perhaps the young men tonight were just weary from the battle today. Thank you again, sir Knight and long live the King.”

The old Knight didn’t say anything, he just turned and continued towards the stable thinking to himself:

I hope, for England’s sake, she’s right. I hope Arthur survives. But it’s never been, that easy.