If Merek thought he might be rebuffed for asking a personal question, he will find himself again surprised as Galahad slips easily into their conversation.

"To speak true, Merek...I do not know my father very well. When I was a boy he was oft campaigning for the King or journeying throughout Saxon lands. At home I had my mother, sister and our family's priest around me, but I know of my father mostly through those stories people tell of his deeds." The smile he offers then is small, thoughtful.

"I did not want for anything different, but I admit I do wonder sometimes how life might have been different, had my Lord Father lived with us as it sounds Sir Brandeles did with you and yours."