"Wake him up," commanded Roak. Turning from the scene, he maneuvered something in his vest pocket. He pulled out bronze knuckles with the seal of the Empire etched in them. He donned it on his right hand while Cain and Maddock filled a bucket of water from the horse's water trough. They threw the bucket over Tallon as Roak crouched down beside him.

"AH!" Tallon gasped as the water suddenly forced him conscious. "Ah, my stomach." He groaned in pain and doubled over. "What...what happened?"

"I should ask you, young friend," Roak said softly as he spoke to the soldier. He seemed kind in his voice, but his eyes said something different.

"I...I don't...ahh.... remember," Tallon lied as he winced.

Roak sucked in the air through his teeth. "Shh...it's Ok, kid. I think I figured it out," Roak reassured the soldier. His left hand covered his right while he held a tight fist.

"You have?" Tallon questioned, surprised, but it almost sounded to Cain as if he was relieved.

"Yes, I think. You see, it's a tale as old as time, kid," started Roak, attempting to hold Tallon's darting eyes. "You see, some young men, like yourself, well, they get a little cocky. Think of themselves as invincible. Then they bite off a little more than they can chew." At that, he caught Tallon's eyes and held them in a glare. Tallon was silent as he processed Roak's words. He grew a small smile and Roak returned one to him.

"Yes, I think you're right, my Lord," admitted Tallon, as he winced again in pain. He grinned slightly in embarrassment and Roak returned it with a small chuckle and a pat on the shoulder. Cain chuckled as well, seeing this type of exchange before and knowing what was to come. Maddock was confused and frustrated.

In a very stern tone, Roak leaned in to have Tallon's direct attention, "I bet you'll think twice next time you make an advance on my wife, hmm?" He raised an eyebrow and Tallon stared in shock. In less than a breath, Roak struck Tallon so roughly, one of his teeth flew out of his mouth. On his cheek imprinted the insignia of the Empire in a bloody scar.