Cutter

"Cutter."

The men look about in confusion, unsure of who you mean. Towards the back of the crowd, Cutter meets your eyes, almost unwillingly.

"Cutter saved the life of your Duke. He fought as bravely as any Frost Knight. And without him we could never have turned the tide and won the day. To Cutter, I honor you."

"Cut-ter. Cut-ter." The chant starts out slowly, but builds in strength as more and more men join in. Mad grins on their faces. Cutter shares their enthusiasm, his face nearly split for his smile. You take his hand and yank him through the crowd as he is awash in back slaps, hugs and crushing handshakes.

You lead him up to Layla, still on her platform. She shoots an unsure look to the Madam, cute, but you don't even look back. You know Roz is outmaneuvered.

A confident smile grows on Layla's face as she steps down to planet a kiss on the victorious hero. Poor Cutter is nearly undone, but Layla knows her craft, she whispers in his ear, and you though you saw a quick bite, before pulling him playfully into the tents as the crowd cheers. You look back at the Madam. She nods. Acknowledging her loss, but keeps the smirk on her face.

There will be more battles to come.