"Yer will come with us. Yer will slowly stand and walk after me out of the door. My friend will be behind ye. Do ye understand, Merick?"

The reeve swallowed. "I do."

"Come, then."

Sir Gweir stood, as did Merick and Sir Kay, and they shouldered their way out amidst curious stares. Again, the reeve was considering making a dash for it.

"I have men all over the village, Merick, and they have orders to kill you if you run."

Merick wiped his sweaty brow ...