Chapter 24 - 12: Swearing Allegiance_2
"Humility, integrity, compassion, courage, justice, sacrifice, honor, faith."
In the castle courtyard, eight knights stood straight on either side, holding torches and looking solemn. Yilin stood in the center, holding a double-handed sword with a crossguard.
Gray kneeled on one knee, holding a confusingly elaborate oath manuscript. After reciting the initial eight virtues of a knight, his voice faltered.
Abi Robbs whispered, "Continue."
"Can I... can I modify my oath?" Gray stammered.
"No. All knights' oaths are the same. If you want to become a knight, you must follow this oath," Abi Robbs frowned. This was the first time he'd heard of someone wanting to alter the knight's oath.
"But..."
"No buts," Abi Robbs emphasized.
Yilin looked at Gray, who was visibly conflicted, with a puzzled expression.
"Alright..." After a brief silence, Gray reluctantly continued, "In the face of enemies, fear not, act bravely and loyally, worthy of the Holy Spirit, be upright and unyielding, protect the weak, and follow the ways of heaven... what if my opponent is stronger than me?"
"Respected knight, please just read. Do not say extra words. An oath is a serious matter," Abi Robbs impatiently emphasized.