Ignoring his companions' attempts at ridicule, Skarsus dismounts and, after tethering Palientha to the wagon's railing, bends to pick up the Orc Dagger and walks over to his former squad-mates.
Cristen, I made that oath. I made it with an honest heart. I stayed with the Devastators for four months after the campaign ended. He swept his gaze across all of his former comrades in arms. The truth is, that we ALL made an oath to our king and country first and foremost. A man's word is only as good as the action he is ready to put behind it. I served with you men, then my king sent for me and now I am serving him, as I had promised - before I made my oath to you all. And I do believe, that no man here would have done otherwise were he in my place. We are all loyal to our King and Country above all else, yes?
He offered the dagger back to Cristen, handle first.
I will return. But only when OUR king releases me back to regular duty. Until then, I would expect you all to respect my decisions.