After returning to the castle, the Soldiers dispersed to rest.
Leech refused the relaxing hot bath arranged by the steward and immediately summoned Quickblade and Gelan.
"What is the effect of the new Honorary Knight system?" Leech asked, looking at Gelan.
Gelan bowed. "The effect has been excellent, Lord! The people have started to emulate the Honorary Knights and now aspire to become one. There have been fewer disputes these past few days, although theft is still an issue."
Theft exists in every era and can never be truly eradicated.
The punishments for theft varied between territories. Some would enslave thieves, stripping them of their freedom forever.
Others would chop off a thief's hand.
And of course, some would just administer a beating and lock them up for a few days before release. A ransom could also secure an earlier release.
Porcupine Territory's current methods were the most lenient: just a beating and a few days' confinement.
