Alexis had let the two walk ahead of him, and hung a bit back, taking his time looking around when the acolyte from before came up from behind him, "Excuse me, Sir."
Facing him, Alexis smiled, "Yes, what did the Elders say?"
Shifting uncomfortably, and nervously eying Alexis's heavy hammers, he refused to make eye contact as he answered. "Unfortunately, we have gotten message that one of the holy knights has abandoned the Church, and giving assistance of any kind to men of the Sword and Cloth has been forbidden until further notice."
His heart started to pound, but Alexis did his best to hold his composure. "One of my order left the church?" he asked trying to sound genuinely concerned, "Would you be able to provide any details about this man?"
Seeing that Alexis was not angry, the Acolyte relaxed a bit, and now looked at him directly. "They say that he was one of the seven. I heard a rumor that the seven rebelled, but the High Priests stopped them with God's power. Unfortunately they were sentenced to death, but one escaped through trickery of some sort."
"Is that so? I cannot believe that the seven would do such a thing, after everything they have done for us. It seems rather odd."
"That it does, but there is no mistaking the letter. I would be happy to show you if you if you would like."
"There is no need for that. I am sure that God will bring him Justice, Brother. One way or another." he answered quite sincerely. The whole story was a lie, but that did not surprise him one bit. If the Church let out what had really happened, he doubted that they would be left with a fraction of followers to pay their tithes. Alexis was used to the deceit that took place in the church. He was even a part of it for nearly his whole life. He rationalized the lying, stealing, and murder by saying that they were for the greater good, or that people would not understand that he was doing God's Will. But in his heart he had always knew that it was wrong, and had simply not admitted it to himself.
"I hope you understand our situation. There is nothing we can do."
a spike of anger shot through him hearing those last words, but it died down just as quickly as it came. there was plenty these men could do. They could obey God instead of the Church's orders, and help him and his companions. But he knew from experience that these people, most likely even the local Shepard were too subjugated to disobey orders. So instead he answered simply, "Yes, I understand, brother. What of my companions, are you able to help them at all?"
"Yes, we were only told to leave the men of your calling alone, but we would be happy to help them in any way we can." He smiled kindly.
"I am glad, please tell the elders and the Shepard that God will not forget their kindness. Peace be to you, brother." They hugged shortly, and Alexis turned to his companions. "Unfortunately, I will not be able to stay here, I have been called elsewhere." He lied, not wanting to tell them the real reason he was not staying. "But the people here will help you. If you earn your keep, they will let you stay as long as you need to."