Re: The Melcom Corbray Wedding
Hrokar smiled, not quite a predatory smile, but not a bright and open smile either.
"The ladies," his smile softened as he glanced at them before returning his gaze to Ser Argos, "are, of course, correct. Men will preen and puff themselves up to try to outshine other men. I think it is a mating instinct," he laughed. "We have this need to be better than other men instead of just accepting who we are," he continued, "but, in the end, we will tend to do what the women in our lives want us to do."
"Honor, Ser Argos, is such an interesting concept. I believe in the honor of living ones life. When a person can look at you and know your word is strong and that your loyalties are as well, that is honor...but, what is honor on the field of battle? One life versus another life and, at the end, the man who survives is what matters."
"A simple scenario for you to consider, Ser," he took a sip of water, "You are charged with protecting a woman of your house. Another man confronts you, his intent could be to kill, rape, or take your charge. This man gets the better of you...you can choose to continue fighting honorably and, most likely you will die and your charge becomes chattel for your adversary," he paused, "OR, you can take an action that might seem dishonorable, but leads to your and your charges survival...What is more honorable, keeping your word to your liege and saving your charges life, or dying and letting them be taken?"
He let his words sink in and could see the young knight thinking, "You see," he continued, "too much honor, or pride, in combat, just leads to a man becoming meat," he speared a bit of mutton and ate it, "for the beast," he finished.
He continued to look into Ser Argos' eyes as he spoke, but, as he finished, his gaze wasn't cruel or mean...just an honest, appraising look.