Timothy remains kneeling beneath the gatehouse, shortened chains resting against the mud. The scarred pursuer holds the lead while guards watch from the walls and Cerdic studies the open message.
Cerdic summons Hrodric, a broad, middle-aged man with a shaved head, weathered face, and iron-studded leather coat, and Harlen, a lean older guard with graying hair and a tired gaze.
Cerdic
Stand witness. I require a written declaration distinguishing lawful custody, protected testimony, and unlawful seizure. Every word must survive Northmere’s scrutiny.
Hrodric
Then the order must name who held him, who authorized the restraint, and whether any force was threatened after the chapel released him.
Harlen
I will witness what occurred here, Cerdic. I will not sign that chains were lawful merely because the boy offered his wrists.
Cerdic places the sealed message beside the disputed warrant. The Northmere official’s warning stands beside his own orders, turning the table into a record of competing authority.
Cerdic
Write carefully. Timothy is restrained for examination, not punishment. If either claim is false, the lie will belong to the hand that records it.