CRACK, and down he goes, landing with a thud on the floor at Heber's feet. He gapes up at the man, this time grabbing at his ankle before he can remember himself.

"F-forgive-- forgive me," he gasps, and peels his hands free. Heart pounding, the taste of blood in his mouth, he forces his hands flat at his sides, and turns his face away. "Forgive my-- my presumption, my Lord--!"