The Hedge Knight II: Sworn Sword #[nn]

In a land parched by drought, Ser Duncan and Ser Bennis uncover a bitter betrayal when they find Coldmoat diverting Standfast’s river. With tensions rising and the harvest failing, Ser Eustace Osgrey calls upon them to rally the villages—though the true cost of such a call may be more than any man can bear.

In a quiet village caught between duty and desperation, Ser Duncan finds himself leading a ragtag group of villagers—some named Wat, some named Will, others like Big Rob and Lem—through the harsh realities of training. With only eight men fit for battle and no hope of victory, Duncan must decide whether to risk a dangerous journey to Coldmoat, seeking peace where war seems inevitable.

Ser Duncan and Egg arrive at Coldmoat, where the young Lady Rohanne, the so-called Red Widow, reveals a surprising youth beneath her reputation. As the septon shares troubling news of unrest at the castle, Duncan must navigate the shifting loyalties and secrets that lie within.

In the shadow of Standfast, Ser Duncan finds himself caught between duty and justice when he uncovers a bitter truth: Coldmoat’s claim to the diverted river is lawful, and Ser Eustace Osgrey’s rebellion was no mere act of defiance—but a betrayal of the crown. As secrets burn in the dark, the forest around them erupts in flame, and the weight of honor presses down on a knight who must now decide what loyalty truly means.

In a tense standoff at Wat's Wood, Ser Duncan finds himself caught between loyalty and justice as he tries to prevent bloodshed. With Ser Eustace Osgrey accusing the Red Widow of arson and Ser Bennis demanding retribution, Duncan steps forward to reveal Egg’s true identity—and take responsibility for the injury to her worker. Now, to settle the charge, Lady Rohanne demands a trial by combat: Ser Duncan against Ser Lucas.

In a storm-lashed river duel, Ser Duncan survives a near-fatal clash with Ser Lucas, emerging not just victorious but marked by the cost of battle. As Lady Rohanne vows her loyalty to Ser Eustace, her quiet confession of feeling for Duncan lingers like a secret wind—sealed only by the braid she lets him keep. With Egg at his side, Duncan rides north, drawn toward the Wall and the uncertain path ahead.