Ch9 Pg 7 (Alternate Ending)
The scene opens inside the magnificent royal court. The king, seated upon his golden throne, looks down upon Garerit with admiration and gratitude. The entire court, including nobles, knights, and high-ranking soldiers, watches as the king prepares to bestow his honor. The princess stands beside her father, smiling, while the prince nods in approval.
King (raising his scepter): "Sir Keller, the giant-slayer and protector of the realm, you have achieved what no knight or army could. In recognition of your bravery, I grant you a seat at my table and a position on my royal council."
A close-up of the gathered knights and soldiers, some exchanging nervous glances. Their expressions are conflicted-respect for Garerit's deeds, but fear of his incredible strength. One knight, older and battle-worn, leans toward another, whispering.
SB Whispering Knight: "It's a great honor, but what if his temper flares? We've seen what he's capable of... what if one day, seven of us fall with a single strike?”
A medium shot of Garerit, standing tall but solemn. He hears the murmurs and sees the apprehension in the eyes of the knights. His expression darkens slightly-not in anger, but in understanding. He knows he is feared, despite his good intentions.
Garerit (thinking to himself): "They view me not as a man, but as a destructive force... even after all I have done."
The king, sensing the tension, chuckles heartily and waves his hand dismissively. His voice booms with confidence, as if brushing away their concerns. The court listens, though some remain wary.
King (smiling): "Come now, my lords! He's a hero, not a monster! His strength benefits the kingdom, not harms it. Let my knights harbor no fear in their hearts.”
A wide shot of the grand hall. Garerit takes his place at the king's table, but as he sits, many of the knights and nobles shift uncomfortably. Some avoid eye contact, while others cautiously observe his every movement. The tension lingers in the air.
Ch9 Pg 8 (Alternate Ending)
The royal court is filled with tension. The knights and high-ranking soldiers stand in formation before the throne, their expressions serious and uneasy. The king, seated on his grand throne, furrows his brow at the unexpected confrontation. Garerit stands nearby, sensing the shift in the air.
Knight Commander (firmly): "Your Majesty, we have given our lives in service to the crown, but we cannot serve alongside... him.”
A wider shot of the room, showing nobles, courtiers, and guards exchanging whispers. Some look concerned, others nod in agreement with the knights. The tension is palpable.
Another Knight: "We mean no disrespect, Your Majesty, but a man who can strike down seven foes with a single blow is no ordinary soldier. If his anger ever turns upon us…"
A third knight (interrupting): "We refuse to stand beside him on the battlefield. Either he leaves military service... or we do.”
The king leans forward on his throne, fingers steepled, deep in thought. His expression is unreadable. The princess and prince exchanged worried glances. Garerit, standing alone, remains silent, waiting for the king's verdict.
King (slowly): "You would turn your back on your oaths over fear? Over one man?”
Knight Commander: "We would not serve alongside a walking catastrophe, Your Majesty. It is not cowardice—it is wisdom."
A close-up of Garerit. He is not angry, but there is a look of deep understanding - and perhaps disappointment. He realizes that no matter how much he has done, his strength will always set him apart.
Garerit (thinking to himself): "They do not trust me... and they never will.”
The king sighs and rises from his throne, looking upon Garerit. His expression is conflicted, but he knows what must be done. The entire court watches in anticipation.
King (with regret): "Garerit, I will not force my men to serve in fear. You have done this kingdom a great service, but your place is not in my army.” (Pause, then solemnly) "You are released from military duty."
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