Young Rogue

[ruperthentzau]

The young man who is now riding up at a gallop is precisely the sort who prefers to inspire extended speeches in his own adoration, and since it is his first day, we will indulge him

Comments

[sweariwontdie]

Armand is sitting on the porch, puzzling over things, when the man rides up. He follows him inside. "I'm afraid I don't know anything of Ruritania. You aren't there anymore."

[ruperthentzau]

"How terribly helpful of you." Rupert frowns at him. "Where am I?"

[sweariwontdie]

Leanng against the doorframe, Armand shrugs. "It's called the Mansion."

[ruperthentzau]

"How elucidating. Of what employ are you, my good knave, to speak so curtly? It is clear you are not a gentleman."

[sweariwontdie]

"I'm probably more of a gentleman than most you'd meet, but if you're asking if my parents were nobles. They weren't. I'm not."

He detaches from the doorway and gives a brief bow. "I'm Armand St. Just."

[ruperthentzau]

Rupert gives an exaggerated bow, mocking. "Rupert of Hentzau, my good Simon."

[sweariwontdie]

"What did you expect to find here?"

[ruperthentzau]

"Shelter from mine enemies, though I had expected to find myself a good deal closer to Ruritania."

[sweariwontdie]

"We don't tolerate violence here, so you're probably safe. You can find shelter, food and clothing here."

[ruperthentzau]

"No?" Rupert laughs. "What, no duels even? And who enforces this? I was told there was no King in this country, nor laws."

[sweariwontdie]

"There are none, but the friends and family of whomever you hurt will avenge themselves. It's pointless, but what else can we do?"

[ruperthentzau]

"Why pointless, my good knave?"

[sweariwontdie]

"Because it never ends. The dead don't stay dead here. We just all suffer on."

[ruperthentzau]

"How horrible! No death? Then every coward may be a brave soldier, and one will no longer be admired for recklessness, if he risks no harm. But you are a saucy knave--why should I believe this claim?"

[sweariwontdie]

"Don't. I don't care if you do or not. I have no reason to lie."