Alphonso & Bombok [Archive] - EQ2 Forum Archive @ EQ2Wire

Rick7666

07-07-2007, 12:49 AM

<div align="center">Alphonso & BombokAs told byRick Fuller & Rich Konkle</div>Chapter 1: A Fateful Meeting The night was dark. There was no moon to compete with the stars as they twinkled down on the serpentine dirt path that wound its way between trees and hills. To the side of the path shone a flickering light…a camp fire ringed in stones. Near the fire stood a small traveler’s tent: surely too small for the hulking figure kneeling next to it. The ashen-faced brute leaned forward, lifting the cover from the cook pot that simmered over the fire. With a large wooden spoon he lifted out a small sample of the contents to taste. After taking a sip, a contented smile crossed the cook’s broad face – an expression not normally found on an Ogre outside of battle. The Ogre reached to his left to lift up a wooden bowl…and stopped. Some small sound to his right caught his attention. Looking up he saw a pair of dark eyes reflecting the light of his camp fire. The additional glint of metal told the cook that this was no wild animal. The cook rose quickly, hands weaving an intricate pattern in the air. A swirl of ice shards formed around him and then faded from view. A deep rumbling voice issued from the Ogre, “Move on, Gnoll! BOMBOK would be hard meal to swallow!” A small-but-bulky figure defiantly moved out of the underbrush and into the light. The figure, clad head-to-toe in metal armor, held his halberd with a professional ease. Though long-faced, furry and of a similar build – this was no Gnoll. His ragged voice cracked with exhaustion yet carried an air of command and determination one rarely found in a Ratonga. “I happened upon your camp accidentally…but if it is fight you seek, you’ll know the mettle of Sir Alphonso Salvador D’Antoni!” The Ogre paused, and then cautiously turned back to his pot. “BOMBOK wants FOOD – not fight. Heh – there is food enough for two…” Alphonso lowered his oversized weapon and stepped closer to the warming flames. The light revealed the evidence of a long time spent in the wilds. Rents in his plate armor and nicks along the blade of his halberd told of many battles…and his great need for a blacksmith. Alphonso propped his halberd against the tent, within easy reach, and sat on his pack. He removed his helmet and – in a surprising show of sophistication – placed a monocle to his left eye. Exhaustion was written on his rodent face. Bombok – quietly pleased with the company – pulled two bowls from a pack and ladled large portions of stew into them. This was followed with two large mugs, quickly filled with a frothy brew from a bulging skin. Alphonso sniffed at the stew and then began to eat – hard pressed not to just wolf down the savory meal. The two disparate strangers ate and drank, staring into the dancing flames. After what seemed a respectful time to Bombok, the Ogre broke the silence. “SO…what brings a Ratonga to Antonica?” Alphonso suddenly became indignant, stomping his foot as he angrily bellowed “I am NOT a Ratonga! I am Human – cursed as a babe into this form!” The Ogre’s heavy brow rose in quiet surprise. “Oh.” Trying to avoid further provocation, Bombok intently poked around at his now-empty bowl. “More BREAD…friend human...?” Alphonso’s anger fled as quickly as it arose. “You must pardon me, friend Bombok. You give me solace on a dark night and I snap at you over a simple question.” An orange glow from the Ogre’s hand fed the flames of the campfire. Trying to be nonchalant, Bombok continued. “Norrath is a land of MANY stories. BOMBOK is curious...” “Very well...” The rodent knight removed a soft cloth from his pack and carefully polished his eyepiece. “My mother was a noblewoman and my father, a famous Paladin. Their kingdom…my kingdom…is a medium-sized island to the west, settled mostly by Humans. Although on the far side of the island was a small village of Ratonga, my father was able to keep them in check. They were mostly peaceful and my mother had a soft spot in her heart for them.” Alphonso put the cloth and monocle away. “…But one night my mother learned of Ratonga treachery. They had stolen me from my nursery, and magically transformed me into what you see now! My mother, somehow, was able to retrieve me – though she would never talk of it.” Bombok listened intently, struggling not to let his disbelief show. Alphonso wistfully looked to the sky, playing memories of happier times in his mind’s eye. “Mother loved me no matter what I looked like…and I was trained to one day rule the land. Father traveled much, questing for a way to break the curse. Unfortunately, he was away when the plague took Mother from me.” A tinge of Alphonso’s previous indignation returned. “With Father away, I was the heir apparent – the only son of my noble family. I knew my duty and set about ruling the kingdom…but the ignorant peasants rose up and cast me out to sea! They claimed that I was not my mother’s son, but that he had died as an infant! They dared claim that my mother – driven mad by her grief – had replaced her dead son with a Ratonga baby!” With unshakable conviction, the diminutive knight continued. “And so, at sea in that tiny boat, I vowed to Marr that I would become a Paladin – like my father – break the curse, and return to my people. After many days I was picked up by a ship and sent to Refuge Island. I learned much there, but when I tried to book passage to Qeynos I was instead sent to that serpent’s den, Freeport! I survived there by doing some things I regret, but one day I met a man who told me of a way to be accepted into fair Qeynos…and that has led me here. I must seek out “Lower Magistrate Rachelle” at a guard tower outside of Qeynos.” Bombok’s yellow eyes lit up. “Ho Ho! Fellow outcast! BOMBOK knows this Magistrate! I have already completed her tasks, and now BOMBOK calls QEYNOS home! We are still several DAYS distant, but there is a smith on the way. HE can mend your equipment – as Qeynos can mend your soul!” The weary Ratonga-who-wasn’t smiled for the first time in recent memory. “Marr grants me his blessing by setting you in my path this night! …Though I am curious to know what has brought you this far into the outer Antonica.” Bombok grinned, and pointed to several bulging sacks beside the tent. “FOODSTUFF!” “BOMBOK will be GREAT cook someday, but – heh heh – the BEST ingredients are in the most DANGEROUS places! ‘Moor-Phee’s Law. Still, the wizardly arts have protected me…” Leaning forward, Alphonso studied Bombok. Taking in his well-tended robes and camp, and pondering his somewhat unogre-like vocabulary – though his quirk of referring to himself in the third person was odd. “Friend Bombok, you seem quite different from the other Ogres I have met while in Freeport. You, too, must have some tale to tell.” The Ogre/cook/wizard perked up. He obviously liked attention – which was good. Being at least seven feet tall and as wide as two men, he almost certainly got plenty of it. “BOMBOK’s story? Heh! A long story it is…but Bombok will tell ANY who would listen. It begins with the ancient warlock “SLI’ZARUS.” ‘Evil incarnate. Maybe you heard of him? No? Sli’Zarus BOASTED he lived since time BEFORE the Great Shattering…but as a Human, how could this be so?” Bombok shrugged his broad shoulders and then turned grim. “BOMBOK is certain of ONE thing: the old warlock lived TOO LONG! So long that even the joy of doing EVIL had left him…and only SPITE kept him from dying! SO! In futile attempts to amuse himself, Sli’Zarus would leave his dark tower to experiment with new, RANDOM acts of evil…for no other reason than HE COULD! Once he raised an army of Smoke Demons and KILLED an entire clan of Ogres…save one.” Alphonso winced in sympathy, for he knew who that “one” must have been. The robed Ogre clenched his oversized fists and looked to the ground. “Clan Bricksmash” was gone…but Sli’Zarus saved ONE toddling, to work as his grunt-slave. I, BOMBOK, was he. I grew to size in his DUNGEON…among the stones, shadows, and wails of the tormented. An old Gnome, “PENSCRITCH” – another slave – raised me as if I were his son.” “Penscritch secret-taught BOMBOK to read…and BOMBOK secret-learned Sli’Zarus’ MAGICKS! HAH! How I felt DRUNK with mana!” Bombok flexed and laughed at his youthful memories. “One day I would show that dusty warlock such things… Heh! REVENGE! One day BOMBOK would AVENGE Clan Bricksmash! One day BOMBOK would be FREE!” The twisted smile ran from Bombok’s face. “But no. The more BOMBOK studied, the more I KNEW ancient Sli’Zarus was too powerful. BOMBOK could study the warlock’s cursed dark magic for a LIFETIME, and he would STILL be too powerful!” Bombok’s booming voice quieted to almost a whisper. “So…one night…BOMBOK snuck into the bonebag’s bedchamber, WITHOUT magic…” “…and broke his neck.” “BOMBOK is not PROUD of this…but it was done.” Bombok’s face again spread into a smile – or as close to a smile as an Ogre could get. “BOMBOK fled to Freeport…burning my skin with my first exposure to midday sun – and LOVING it! To run among trees! and grass! To swim in the rivers! And the food-? Hah Hah! Living on bread and gruel for all my life – I now tasted REAL food! And I could MAKE real food! BOMBOK was now FREE! FREE!” “…not.” Bombok again turned somber, tiring-out Alphonso with his Oggish mood swings. “Sli’Zarus had a standing arrangement with the Freeport Assassin’s Guild! Even in DEATH he would punish his killer! ME!” “…And so the assassins came…WEEKLY at first…then MORE than weekly. I lost old Penscritch to one of the first killers. GAAUH! BOMBOK just wanted to COOK and GARDEN…but if I stayed in Freeport, BOMBOK would be UNDER the garden! For his health – BOMBOK had to leave Freeport. With a self-satisfied smile, Bombok smoothed the ruffled sleeves of his ornate, blood-red robe. “But now BOMBOK has FOUND his home, in Qeynos…in the peaceful green of BAUBBLESHIRE.” Alphonso almost choked on the last of his drink. “Baubb-“ the home for Gnomes and Halflings??” “Heh Heh! …All those cute little doozers are my WATCHDOGS! Hah! If the Freeport Assassins come to Baubbleshire, they STAND OUT like a…a… “Like an Ogre?” Bombok puzzled over Alphonso’s remark for a moment, and then laughed. “What do you-? OH! Like ME?? Heh Heh! BOMBOK forgets sometimes. I’ve never LIVED with Ogres.” Alphonso marveled at this. “Certainly the fates put us together. I am not a Ratonga, and you, sir, are not an Ogre. Not inside. Not in your heart or mind. This just may be the start of an epic friendship!” Bombok responded “Sir Alphonso, have you ever had fresh Jum Jum pie?” And that’s when Alphonso knew it was the start of an epic friendship.

Amethest

07-07-2007, 02:00 PM

very nice story cannot wait to see how this friendship unfolds....so write more soon...please <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Rick7666

07-12-2007, 08:09 PM

Chapter 2: Entering Qeynos The mid-day sun shone brightly over the stark guard tower. Despite its gray, battle-scarred surface, the defiantly-intact fortification bore testament to the success of its dwarven designers. Indeed, the lands of Norath had many of these towers scattered about. This particular tower was one of several that separated the wilds of Antonica from the peaceful farmlands that led up to the shining glory of Qeynos. This particular tower was garrisoned by a score of human guards …most of who were now glaring at the two non-humans among them: a Ratonga and an Ogre. The robed Ogre, Bombok, leaned on his staff…a look of tired amusement on his face. After spending uncounted days away from civilization, slaying an absurd amount of vicious Gnolls, Alphonso (with Bombok’s help) had finished the labors set before him…and it had brought him here. The plate-armored Alphonso dragged over a wooden chest almost larger than himself and announced, “Well, I’m done. Here is your proof.” The stern woman Alphonso was talking to was dressed in higher quality armor than the guards surrounding her, for this was “Lower Magistrate Rachelle.” This was the woman who would judge Alphonso’s worth. This was the woman who could make a humanoid rat a citizen of fair Qeynos! Rachelle opened the chest, exposing its grisly contents. It contained what looked to be hundreds of freshly severed Gnoll paws, and one still angry-looking head! Being careful not to dirty her hands, the Magistrate carefully scrutinized the parts…and smiled, ever so slightly. “I see ‘Dancoed of the Pines’ has met his just reward.” Alphonso looked impassively into the chest, “He was almost a worthy opponent.” His words belied the fact that he was almost killed in three prior fights with Dancoed. Rachelle sighed, “You have completed all of my tasks, and I guess you have proven your right to enter fair Qeynos. Mind you - this does not mean we trust you. You will be watched.” Rachelle reached into her belt pouch and pulled out a small medallion, “This is your Qeynosian Citizenship Token. Do not lose it! The guards will want to see it any time you pass through a district gate, so keep it handy.” What looked like a small medallion in Rachelle’s hands looked like a small dinner plate in Alphonso’s. The rodent knight came to attention and saluted Rachelle, and then began to inspect the token. On one side was a relief of the city of Qeynos…and on the other, information about himself. At the top of the token was his name. Below that, room for three symbols to represent his adventuring class. At the bottom was room for two more symbols, to represent his crafting profession. At this time there were only two symbols on the token, to represent his rise from “Fighter” to “Crusader” –- but soon he would have a third, to represent his elevation to “Paladin.” Finally, Alphonso’s dark eyes descended to the symbol of his race. “Ratonga.” “What is this?? It says I’m a Ratonga! “ Alphonso’s lifetime of frustration came sputtering to the surface. “I told you that I am Human! …and that I appear like this only because of a curse!” A look of annoyance came to Rachelle’s face, “Curse or not you are a Ratonga now, and you would not gain entry if I were to put Human on there!” Trying to maintain her professional composure, Rachelle spoke loudly and slowly – as if trying to reason with a small child. “If you are ever able to break this ‘curse’…just take the token to the quest office in Qeynos Harbor…and they will fix it.” The Lower Magistrate turned, coolly dismissing the dumbstruck rodent. “Be warned…if you do not put your feet to the road now…you will not make the gates by nightfall.” Bombok’s oversized hands gently turned Alphonso’s armored shoulders towards the door. ************************************************** ************** The gates to North Qeynos were impressive indeed, being many times taller than Bombok! The city of Qeynos was actually built on an island just a few dozen yards off the coast of Antonica. The shear cliffs between them formed a natural moat, with large stone bridges spanning the chasm. As the sun set, the last of the traffic hurried into the city. Alphonso and Bombok broke into a run, to reach the gates before they closed completely. The guards pushing the gates closed saw the Ogre and Ratonga running toward them and drew their weapons! Alphonso and Bombok skid to a stop, thrusting their citizen tokens before them. Knight-Lieutenant Alesso stepped forward and said, “At ease lads, it’s just Bombok.” The guards put away their weapons and some actually smiled and waved to Bombok. “And who have you brought with you?” “This is BOMBOK’S good friend, Alphonso.” The guard chuckled, in a possibly condescending fashion. “Well good to meet you Al. Any little friend of Bombok’s is certainly welcome in Qeynos. And I see you have your shiny, newly- minted token with you!” Alphonso stood stiffly and in a tight voice said, “My name is Sir Alphonso Salvador D’Antoni not ‘Al’.” Alesso’s eyes narrowed, “Sir Al it is then. Bombok you might want to teach your little friend how one addresses the Qeynosian Guard.” Bombok stooped over and eagerly began pushing Alphonso through the gates, “Heh heh! MUCH to do, MUCH to do! ‘Must hurry along! It is BOMBOK’s pleasure to see Knight-Lieutenant Alesso again!” The two passed through the outer gate and into the bailey: the large area between the inner and outer gates. With arrow slits in the towering walls, the bailey was a killing field that any enemy would find hard to overcome. The pair hurried, as the huge inner gates were also being closed for the night -- shutting with a finality that invoked either a sense of comfort or paranoia. Were they trying to keep something out, or keep the Qeynosians locked in? In a blink, it was done. They were inside. This was Alphonso’s first look inside the grand city. This was Qeynos…and the wealthy district of North Qeynos at that. With the sun having set over the monumental walls, the dark shadows were pushed back by the many street lamps just now being lit. With nightfall, horses and carts were mostly gone from the streets…but the banner-strewn thoroughfares were still busy with a vast assortment of citizenry: everything from Gnomes hawking small toy-like gadgets, to tall Erudite Wizards locked in arguments over some arcane subject. A group of fastidious Frogloks politely weaved through a crowd of Elven elite. A tiger-like Kerra warrior roughly purred at his prospective mate. Rough-cut Dwarven and Barbarian miners, done for the day, looked to share a drink at the tavern. Music and laughter filled the air. In counterpoint to the clean, well-kept buildings, large open areas were covered with lush trees, bushes and manicured grass. The grim, rival city of Freeport was never like this. The exiled knight and monster mage made their way through the moving throng to the steps of “Claymore Plaza.” An upright sword – as big as the tower they visited earlier – loomed over them…yet it was inspiring, rather than menacing. The runes running the length of the monumental sword glowed brightly. Alphonso assumed this was done with magic, but did not ask Bombok. Beauty and spectacle does not need to be analyzed. The two climbed to the top of the steps and sat, gazing at the nearby illuminated castle that sat at the center of the vast city. Alphonso glanced at Bombok with a wistful look and said, “I’m finally here. I can feel it; this is where I am meant to be.” A look of such joy came to Alphonso’s face that Bombok roared with laughter. “HO HO! The city is a fine thing, but BOMBOK smells like Deer Casserole left sitting too long. BOMBOK hears a long, hot BATH calling to him!” Snapped out of his trance, the small knight sniffed himself with comedic exaggeration. “Hah! I think I might have you beat! At least you aren’t covered in fur and wearing metal armor. I’ve lived in this armor so long – the smell might be permanent! I might have to have it melted down.” The two friends rose from the monument steps, only to have their way blocked by an old Human woman. “ ‘Ey! Who let you two vermin in??” She turned and tapped a passing city guard with her cane. “Wot’s the meaning of this? Can an old woman not walk the streets of Qeynos without being accosted by evil creatures??” The armored guard sternly turned towards Alphonso and Bombok, his hand on his sword! They both hurriedly fumbled their citizenship tokens into their hands. “By my honor - we never touched her!” “BOMBOK is FRIEND of Qeynos!” After inspecting the tokens the guard stammered, “Everything appears in good order. Didst they strike you?” Looking around sheepishly, the old woman mumbled “Well, no...” “Then pray - move along, milady.” “Hurump!” “Monsters and vermin! What comes of this city? - What comes of it?” said the old woman as she indignantly hobbled away. Bombok patted a now-dejected Alphonso on the shoulder and assured, “Pay no heed to the old woman. Even the GRANDEST orchard has a few bad apples.” But as Alphonso gazed about he noticed, for the first time, more than a few unfriendly looks pointed in their direction. “COME, COME…a hot bath and hot meal is just what THIS cook has ordered!” In a daze, Alphonso muttered “Such hatred…human hatred…even here.” Bombok paused in sympathetic silence for a couple of minutes…and then chuckled. “Heh heh! Clumsy BOMBOK almost dropped his medallion. BOMBOK thinks of sewing it to my GLOVE. So, when a guard asks for citizenship proof – BAM – there it is! Heh! You talk to the hand!” Alphonso skeptically looked up, as if the Ogre Wizard were crazy. “No? WORK with BOMBOK! Hee Hee! Maybe we attach them to our HEAD?” Alphonso thought for a moment…and smiled. “chuckle – It’s bigger than my head. “OKAY– Okay…so we make it a BREASTPLATE for you!” Exasperated-but-smiling, Alphonso argued, “If I use it as a breastplate, it’s certain to be damaged in battle!” “Ho HO! Always with the negative! So… RALLOS TAKE ME! THIS is it! We attach the medallions to the SEATS of our PANTS! THEN…when the guards ask...” Alphonso guffawed “We show them our…” The knight and wizard nearly doubled-over with laughter, as they moved past the bustle of North Qeynos. There would be challenges and battles ahead. There would times when their very lives would depend on each other. But there would also be times such as this…proving that the need for a friend does not always involve a fight.

Amethest

07-12-2007, 08:30 PM

oh I really enjoy your writing style...I am enthralled with your duo and look forward to seeing how their friendship and adventures unfold...you just made it onto my fav authors to read list <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Rick7666

07-12-2007, 10:20 PM

Hello, I wanted to introduce my self and say a few things about the story. This story is indeed written by two people, the two people who play Alphonso and Bombok. They are Characters on the Oasis server. We've been playing these characters off and on for over two years, to be truthful, more off than on. We each have several characters and really enjoy role-playing. Rich, who plays Bombok, uses most of his macros to put dialog and emotes together. Both of us really like coming up with complex character backgrounds. And we love the flexibility of Everquest II. In this game you really can be anything you want.I want to mention that you might notice that many of my descriptions of locations will be different than they are in the game. Mostly I'm making things a lot bigger, because Norath is, well, tiny and kind of sparse. So I'll be increasing the size of the land by quite a bit and adding a lot more people and elements to the locations. So come along for the ride and if you happen to see us online, say "Hi." Rickaka RickF7666 on EQ2Interface.comand just because I'm so proud of it here is a link to my Persona Window replacement<a href="http://www.eq2interface.com/downloads/info4402-RickF7666PersonaWindow.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.eq2i...tml</a>ps. What is going on with the formatting of these messages. I never know what I'm going to get when I hit "Submit" I think I've reedited my story at least 20 times each and still can't quite get it to come out they way I want it to.

Rick7666

07-17-2007, 12:04 AM

Chapter 3: A Night in Baubbleshire The “Deepmug Tavern” was warm and welcoming. Oil lamps flickered atop upright poles, illuminating the wood-paneled room in a cheerful glow. A bright fire burned in the large fire place and intoxicating smells wafted from the kitchen. The patrons, mostly craftsmen, energetically ate and drank with friends and family. The conversations were lively and amiable: the steady murmur occasionally punctuated by a burst of laughter or a call for another round. Serving girls hovered about the tables, depositing full plates and mugs and clearing away the empties. Holding court behind the bar was “Tapster Bregun.” Tapster (and yes, that’s his birth-name) greeted all with a broad smile, a cheerful salutation and a mug of their favorite poison! With a wall of casks and shelves of bottles this was a tavern that boasted that they could provide any sort of libation available in Norath. Here you would find no somber fellows drowning their sorrows, or nefarious types plotting away, for these were Gnomes and Halflings. Happier people would be hard to find! The tavern was warm and welcoming…and, of course, very, very short. The door swung open and in swaggered the armored “Ratonga” knight, Alphonso. He delayed his entry momentarily, to strike a heroic pose in the doorway. His highly polished armor reflected the light, a brilliant contrast to the inky night behind him. Bregun made a show of covering his eyes from the armor’s glare, and called out, “Alphonso! Ye have the look of someone in search of a celebration!” Alphonso sauntered up to the bar, entirely pleased with himself. “Even after my new armor I have a few silvers left, so bring out a good bottle of elven wine! For this night…” He paused dramatically “…you look upon the newest Paladin of Marr!” Bregun leaped onto the bar, lifted up a full mug and shouted, “LISTEN UP! HOIST YER DRINKS FOR SIR ALPHONSO SALVADOR D’ANTONI – PALADIN OF MITHANIAL MARR, THE TRUTH-BRINGER!” A great hurrah rose up from the patrons, with only those too slow failing to raise their drinks. A distinct, deep, rumbling cheer nearly drowned out the others. It belonged to none other than the immense Ogre, Bombok! The tavern’s 2 feet tall tables and chairs looked like doll furniture in comparison to his height and breadth. Even the 6 ½ foot tall ceiling forced the plus-sized wizard to crouch when standing…so Bombok sat “inconspicuously” in a corner. Oddly, he seemed right at home! The Ogre pounded on his table with delight, causing the dishes, the table – and the very floor - to bounce with alarm! The fact that the table neither broke nor tipped over was a minor miracle. The other customers became suddenly silent and looked over at Bombok. Surprise, apprehension, and perhaps a little fear painted their faces. An Ogre – on the apparent brink of an uncontrolled rampage – was not to be taken lightly! This sudden attention, in turn, caused Bombok to sheepishly stop…before breaking into great peals of laughter! The gathered wee folk immediately resumed their boisterous glee. The elderly Gnome sitting with Bombok nervously leaned over and asked, “Why d’ ye keep doing that?? Me nerves can’t take it, ye know! Are ye trying t’ send someone t’ an early grave?” Bombok remained unrepentant. “HA! BOMBOK is good FRIEND to these cute little doozers and coggers! They know that! They DO!” Alphonso – perfectly sized for the small room - walked over carrying a bottle of wine and a stemmed glass. “Please, friend Bombok – no more pounding on the table. You’ll spill the drinks.” With a grin, Alphonso poured himself a glass of the deep-reddish alcohol. “The last of my coin paid for this adequate vintage and I have every intention of drinking it, rather than cleaning it up.” Still standing, Alphonso ceremoniously raised his glass in a toast. “Here’s to virtue, valor…and honest poverty.” Raising their own, already-filled glasses, the Ogre and Gnome joined in the toast. Before sitting, Alphonso carefully leaned his trusted halberd against the wall and set his new “Paladin” sword on the table. He mused, “I guess I could always sell this. It’s a fine trophy, and seems a dependable blade…but lacks the reach I’ve become accustomed to. But on the other hand, a backup weapon is always handy.” The small knight took another sip, savored the wine, and then continued. “Either way, I need to make some money. I really think I need to get a place of my own.” The old, gray-haired Gnome knowingly leaned forward and said, “Well sonny-jim, there be plenty o’ folks in old Qeynos who need things done. It may not be a grand adventure, but ye will be paid.” Alphonso suddenly became aware of the third party at the table. “Excuse my self-absorption. I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure…” Bombok swallowing his drink. “Heh! BOMBOK’S bad! Sir Alphonso, this is “REMO ZIGG”…a Templar.” “Retired”, interjected Remo. “And Remo Zigg, this is mighty SIR ALPHONSO…Qeynos’ newest Paladin!” Remo sternly eyed the new rat in Qeynos, and then tentatively extended his hand. Alphonso quietly wondered if there was a reason for the Gnome’s hesitation, but ignored his suspicions. This was undoubtedly just a grumpy old Gnome…acting as grumpy old Gnomes will act. Alphonso decisively shook Remo’s hand. “I am honored, Remo Zigg. How did you two…?” Bombok, as often was the case, jumped in. “Heh heh! REMO was first cogger in Baubbleshire to TALK to BOMBOK! Everyone else…er…RAN AWAY.” The grey-haired Gnome interjected, “Loud, clumsy, oversized lug! Somebody had t’ see why he was in th’ Shire! Hmmmph! ‘Turns out, he was going t’ live here…sigh.” Remo’s eyes narrowed slightly, as an exasperated smile crossed his face. “Know ye, some are still a wee uncomfortable with an Ogre in th’ mix…” Blissfully oblivious to this, Bombok wrapped a friendly arm around Remo’s shoulders and gave the Gnome a friendly squeeze…perhaps a little too hard. Remo winced, and rolled his eyes. Bombok continued, as the retired Templar squirmed out of the Ogre’s grasp. “SO! Sir Alphonso! The Qeynosian Knights have tested you? Your monumental trials are finished?” Alphonso paused…embarrassed and a little disappointed. “Quite frankly, after all the Gnolls we dispatched to satisfy Rachelle, rescuing a few farmers from a small group of Gnolls just wasn’t the challenge I was expecting.” This sent Bombok into a fresh round of laughter. Remo Zigg quietly chuckled along, despite himself, and added “Those endless, crazed Gnolls! Boyo – even in my time, we never ran out!” Bombok guffawed, “HEH HEH! CRUNCH all you want – we’ll make more!” *************************************************

Rick7666

07-17-2007, 12:07 AM

************************************************** **** Bombok’s spacious room was pitch dark, but anything but quiet. The Ogre wizard carefully avoided necromancy – yet his near deafening snores surely seemed capable of waking the dead! The thick walls of the inn insulated the other tenants from the storm of sound…but did nothing for the Ratonga desperately trying to sleep on the other side of the room. Even the intoxicating effects of a bottle of wine could not and did not negate the virtual sawmill Alphonso was now trapped in! Having spent many months in the wilds between Freeport and Qeynos, Alphonso had learned how to get by on little rest. But he didn’t like it. Desperately folding a pillow around his ears, one mantra kept repeating itself through Alphonso’s head. “I have got to get a place of my own…I have got to get a place of my own…” With dawn still more than an hour away, a feeling that something was off came over Alphonso. Using a Ratonga talent that had come in handy on more than one occasion, Alphonso concentrated on his night vision. Awash in a seeming yellow glow, the pitch black room came into focus. A small, rough hewn bed – identical to the one Alphonso currently occupied – stood next to the door. “Pathetic craftsmanship”, thought the Ratonga. Bombok - wrapped in his covers like a Maj’Dul mummy - slept on two double beds, joined side-by-side. These beds, too, were too crude for Alphonso’s tastes. A small-but-growing library of books populated the shelves. For Bombok, books and scrolls always took priority over furnishings. A discarded stack of crates with stools served as a dinette set, next to the room’s surprisingly large, open window. …And a Halfling crept along the wall…inching towards Bombok with a drawn dagger. Alphonso blinked in disbelief. Silently sliding out of bed, Alphonso drew his new sword from its place under his bed – and charged the Halfling! “ASSASSIN!” hissed the underdressed knight, hoping to startle the intruder! Alphonso swung his sword at his opponents’ head, but was deftly avoided. The assassin’s short blade, however, scored a hit along one of Alphonso’s bare arms! Fates be damned – it was his sword arm. The sensation of fire instantly lanced up Alphonso’s gashed limb, causing him to drop his sword! A desperate kick sent the Halfling sprawling into the shabby “dinette set.” Crates and broken boards went flying, but the assassin remained undeterred! Bouncing to his feet, the diminutive attacker raced forward…forcing the now-unarmed Paladin to quickly back peddle. Retreat was a strange, new tactic to Alphonso…but, unarmed and unarmored, he knew his prospects were grim… Suddenly, a swirling maelstrom of flames engulfed the room! The Halfling recoiled in pain – yet, oddly, Alphonso and the rest of the room remained untouched! The flames were magical. Bombok was awake! Realizing he now faced two defenders, the would-be assassin dove through the still-open window. Bombok rushed to the sill, blindly crashing through the splintered remains of some of his furnishings! “GAAUGH! OW! RALLOS TAKE ME – BOMBOK can’t see a thing!” The street, two stories below, was somewhat illuminated…but Bombok still saw nothing. The intruder had completely disappeared. “BOMBOK owes you his life, Alphonso. Alphonso?” “A - minute – Bombock…” “Poison – on blade…” With a flame extending from one finger, the Ogre quickly lit a lamp…and finally saw the struggling Ratonga, slumped against the wall and cradling his quickly-swelling arm against his chest. Alphonso’s face tightened with pain and intense concentration. Unheard words of power formed on his lips. A glowing, healing aura surrounded the Ratonga for a moment…did it’s work…then vanished. The swelling subsided and he began to breathe easier…but this lasted only for a moment, for the Assassin’s poison was of a potency designed to kill an Ogre. Alphonso grit his teeth, as he tried to stand. “Halflings and Gnomes…’can’t trust them! All cheerful and smiling…grrnnnn…but someone in Baubbleshire has betrayed you…ernngh!” “ME?? FORGET BOMBOK! Fight the poison, Alphonso! BOMBOK will get a Healer!” The room’s locked door suddenly rattled as heavy blows emanated from the other side. With a final crash, the wood surrounding the latch splintered and the door burst open! Standing in the doorway was an elderly Gnome…dressed in a night shirt, but holding a Templar’s glowing mace! Bombok frantically tripped over his own words, just barely getting out “Assassin came! POISON!” With a calmness taught from years of experience, Remo Zigg quickly assessed the scene. Rushing to the fallen Paladin, Remo touched Alphonso’s arm and - with a word - dismissed the effects of the poison. A few more words, and strength flowed back into Alphonso! As the rejuvenated Alphonso sat upright, Bombok collapsed with relief. Remo sourly remarked, “A few moments more and ye would have been beyond even my ability t’ help.” Alphonso marveled, “Praise Marr! I got those extra moments from a spell. A PALADIN spell.” Alphonso bowed to Remo. “You have the gratitude of the D’Antoni…and my apology for suspicions that I had…but all is not right in Baubbleshire. The Assassin was a Halfling! How is such a thing possible?” Remo wryly responded, “This bein’ asked by a Ratonga Paladin roomin’ with an Ogre Wizard. There are many stories about many adventurers…and not all are those seeking good. Even Halflings c’n turn bad. The lure of Freeport affects even those born in Qeynos.” Bombok grimaced and shook his head. “The Freeport ASSASSIN’S GUILD. Bombok thought he would be SAFE here…” Alphonso pressed on, “If the Assassin came from Freeport, how did he gain entry into Qeynos?” “Every large city has its rat holes…er, no offense…and f’r Qeynos, that’s th’ sewers. I’d bet me mace that’s where he’s gone back to, as well! The sewers are afoul with all manner of monster. The Qeynosian Guard keeps th’ worst of it from the streets.” Alphonso remarked, with cool rancor, “Apparently not.” By this time a small gathering of inn residents were peering into Bombok’s disheveled room. The nightshirt-clad Ogre tried his best to dissuade further attention. Regrettably, this only piqued the curiosity of the onlookers even more. “BOMBOK says no show here! Move along! Nothing more to see! Only little –er- accident in BOMBOK’S room!” “What accident?” Bombok stammered, “A…er, furniture exploding accident…” “Was it a fight? It was, wasn’t it?” Bombok mumbled, “A fight? Er, I couldn’t say…Heh! We sort of tripped…several times…while holding weapons… “Was it a lover’s quarrel? “Wha -?? NO!!” Bombok mercifully slammed the door shut, and made a mental note. Next time, Alphonso would talk to the public. For now, Alphonso and Remo were still locked into their discussion. Methodically donning his armor, Alphonso grimly declared “If it is the sewers this foul villain came from, then it is there I shall hunt for him. He is a coward and he has earned a coward’s end!” Bombok looked uncomfortable at the prospect. Alphonso noticed his friend’s hesitation. “Bombok-?” “er…YEAH, TEAM…but…” Finally, the flustered wizard blurted it out. “SEWERS are no good for Bombok! I looked in there once! The tunnels are NOT Ogre-size! Heh! Bombok can’t stand upright! ‘Can’t run! ‘Can’t see! And can’t CAST SPELLS correctly.” The Paladin wiggled his fingers into his metal gauntlets, and – in a macho gesture - punched Bombok lightly in the arm. “Fear not…for what is a friend for, but to do what one cannot?” With the first glow of dawn now seeping into the room, the fully-clad Alphonso grabbed his pack and halberd, and headed for the door. The old Gnome, Remo, casually blocked the exit with his mace. “If ye’re determined t’ head into the sewers, ye might want t’ be productive about it. Ask around first. Ye might find that there are those who would pay for tasks t’be done in the sewers…and still others who would join ye on yer quest.” Alphonso considered this, smiled, and nodded. “Agreed!” Minutes later, with Alphonso gone, Bombok wondered aloud “You said there are MONSTERS down there? Blood of Zek – will he be alright?” Remo just smiled. “Pheh! Ye saw him! He’ll do fine. He’s a Paladin!

Amethest

07-17-2007, 03:55 PM

lol woot I luv those guys <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" /> thanks for the new stuff ...

Taby1

07-28-2007, 06:46 PM

As warm and entertaining a tale as the character I've come to call friend on Oasis. I will be watching for more <img src="/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" /> Hugs, Lady Tabytha

Rick7666

07-28-2007, 10:39 PM

Chapter 4: Moving Day Castleview Hamlet was a bustling place. Its well-kept stone buildings and immaculate, open courtyards made it essentially a smaller version of North or South Qeynos. Elegant stone-inlay plazas and sparkling fountains - not to mention its easy access to Qeynos Harbor - made it a popular homestead for many adventurers. Civilized heroes and heroines looking for an inexpensive but "classier" place to live chose Castleview Hamlet...and so the streets teemed with all manner of being: from Elf to Dwarf to Froglok to Human, and even the occasional Kerra. Those who called Castleview Hamlet home could be excused for becoming jaded to the menagerie of races that walked the streets...but on this afternoon a singular sight caused a great many of them to stop and stare. A sweating Ogre in a colorful robe struggled to pull a comically-overloaded ox-cart of furniture behind him...while an upright-walking rat in plate armor doggedly pushed the cart from behind. Moving day was here. Alphonso was finally getting his own residence! "I still feel a little guilty at leaving you, Bombok...after the attempt on your life...and my...failed... mission to find the assassin..." "Heh! ‘We STILL on this? Alphonso SAVED Bombok's life...and exposed weakness in Qeynos! NOW the city guards have increased in Baubbleshire, and the tower mages of the CONCORDIUM have placed MAGICAL SEALS on BOMBOK'S dwelling. Soon, ALL Qeynos homes will be so protected!" "Hmmm...Your near-death really did open a jug of worms, didn't it? The city reacted quickly. Reportedly, Queen Antonia herself took notice! Nonetheless, I feel as though I'm abandoning you -" "ENOUGH, Alphonso! BOMBOK is safe enough...and soon will be even SAFER. Bombok has met some powerful new FRIENDS in Qeynos...." As the cart bumped over the grooves and channels of the stone paved streets, it abruptly came to a halt. Alphonso called forward, "What ho?" "OH! Bombok's aching back!" The Ogre surveyed his surroundings in disbelief. "STAIRS! Who would put STAIRS in the streets??" "Stai-? Oh right! They are fairly shallow. We should be able to muscle the cart over them." Ironically, the 3-foot tall Ratonga was quite probably stronger than the 7-foot tall Ogre...and it was beginning to show. "MUSCLE IT? Heh!" Bombok wearily dropped the staves of the cart. "BOMBOK has ‘muscled it' all the way from Baubbleshire. BOMBOK needs BREAK!" "HELLO, tall, dark and...well...TALL." called out a sultry voice. Across the street, leaning against a pillar, was a fetching red-headed female of the Elvin variety. She stood outside the aptly - but unglamorously - named "Hole in the Wall Pub." The words almost purred from her lips. "If it is a break you desire, then a break you shall acquire...my big Bombok." "Heh heh! Oh STOP IT, Faeadaen! People will talk!" Bombok giggled like a school boy, while Alphonso curiously peered from behind the rear of the cart. A sly grin immediately appeared on Alphonso, as he recognized a familiar face. He called with a commanding voice. "Well, if it isn't Faeadaen: mistress of ales, and jewel of fair Qeynos." The diminutive knight wasted no time cutting in front of his startled Oggish comrade, and continuing his banter. "Dear woman, your abounding beauty chases away the soreness of a day's labor. My poor heart races to again witness your alluring radiance." Faeadaen smiled. Bombok was upstaged, but not upset. He was too occupied marveling at how the austere, caustic knight transformed in the presence of a comely barmaid! Faeadaen sauntered over, every move of her body a silent promise. "Come lads, but hoist a few flagons for me...and for a few silver more, I shall dance for you. Thereafter, all your burdens shall seem light as a feather...and your troubles - naught but distant memories." Bombok smiled broadly, "What SHE said!" The hours passed quickly and soon the sun set behind the walls of Qeynos. Blinking in disbelief at the streetlamp-lit avenue before them, the "well-rested" Alphonso and Bombok stumbled into the street - several silver poorer, and yet still faced with the task of getting the cart up the stairs and around to the front of "The Bed and Book." "BOMBOK must confess...I hoped SOMEONE would steal your cart." "sigh"..."Everyone's a jester." They took their places at either end of the cart. Alphonso determinedly put his shoulder against the back of the overloaded gurney and heaved - to little effect. The cart did not move. The weary Paladin then heard Bombok cheerfully shout, "PET!" Alphonso grumbled aloud, "Bombok, we have no time for more barmai -" Then Alphonso saw her. She was a tall High Elf; clad in opulent, polished plate armor; riding a statuesque white horse though the nearby gates of Castleview. The gate guards saluted her as she passed. This was clearly a woman of importance and she rode with a serene, regal bearing...yet Bombok greeted her as he would, well, anyone. "PET! Over here!" The beautiful Elvin lady had barely dismounted from her horse when Bombok swept her up in a great bear hug! Alphonso was filled with apprehension, for he had been the recipient of several of Bombok's enthusiastic (and painful) bear hugs! Yet when Bombok put her down, the armored Elf seemed no worse for the wear. She slapped Bombok on the arm and said, "How are you faring this evening, friend Bombok?" Bombok heaved a dramatic sigh and said, "BOMBOK is helping Alphonso move, but we still have these STAIRS to conqueror. And THOSE stairs... And stairs INSIDE the Inn..." The armored Elf looked about, puzzled. "Who is this Alphonso?" Bombok looked around for his friend and found him watching from around the corner of the cart, his eyes wide with wonder. Bombok gleefully pulled Alphonso from behind the cart and said, "Heh heh! This is ‘PETRAZION', Sir Alphonso! Say HI to the nice lady!" Petrazion held out her shining, gauntlet-covered hand and Alphonso stared at it for but a moment - and then the spell was broken. A shudder ran though Alphonso and he cleared his throat. Alphonso took Petrazion's hand and reverently kissed it. "I am Sir Alphonso Salvador D'Antoni, Paladin of Mithaniel Marr ‘theTruthbringer,' and you have enchanted me. If there is any small task that I might perform you have but to ask it, for I am your most humble servant." A brief look of amazement crossed Bombok's face. Again this was not typical Alphonso behavior. The dripping sarcasm and distain which were the hallmarks of most of the Ratonga's first meetings was noticeably absent. The High Elf smiled and curtsied saying, "Sir Knight you flatter me. I am but a Paladin of Tunare, ‘the Mother of All'...and I serve fair Qeynos as one of its Guildmasters. My guild, "The FORSAKEN KNIGHTS," offers fellowship to all noble misfits and outcasts who would fight for honor, freedom and redemption...and that includes a certain Ogre wizard." Bombok grinned. "Yep! Now BOMBOK has a posse!" Petrazion turned to the Ogre. "Bombok, my friend...you never told us you had such a charming companion." Bombok was even more confused. "I DIDN'T? But BOMBOK thought..." and then he saw her secret wink. "OH! Why, yes! YES! This is SIR ALPHONSO: a noble Paladin who just LOOKS like a Ratonga. He's questing for the return of his humanity!" Placing her hand on Alphonso's shoulder Petrazion said, "Surely a knight on such an important quest would not wish to join our guild ...would he?" Without hesitation Alphonso pulled his Halberd from the harness on his back and knelt before the stately Petrazion. "I would be honored to pledge my weapon to the service of The Forsaken Knights." "Then rise fair Paladin, for I accept your pledge. I will gather the other Knights who are in Qeynos this evening to welcome you into our ranks." Bombok bounced enthusiastically. "YES! MORE hands to help move this FURNITURE!" "Not so fast my boisterous friend" said Petrazion. "First there is the matter of the initiation." Bombok seemed to deflate. "INITIATION? You didn't mention initiation for BOMBOK." The High Elf smiled slightly, "I didn't? Well forgetful me. I mean we can't just let anyone join. You both must prove your worthiness in a suitably heroic way. Like...say...descending into Blackburrow to retrieve a cask of Gnoll Ale. Being that you two are Gnoll slayers of some renown this should be a walk in the park." "MORE Gnolls??" sighed Bombok. Alphonso elbowed the Ogre in the leg and then said, "It would be our honor to relieve them of some ale. But do we have to do it before you'll help us with the furniture?" Petrazion laughed and said, "But of course we'll help you finish moving...and we'll leave first thing in the morning for the Gnoll caves." As Petrazion got back on her horse and rode away to gather the other Knights, Bombok sat down on the edge of the cart. It creaked under his weight. "CAVES again...and Bombok GUARANTEES they are NOT Ogre-sized caves. "groan"...Scrawny little Gnolls... Why do our adventures always go UNDERGROUND?" Alphonso nodded sympathetically - but in truth, his mind was elsewhere. He was already thinking of the blissful sleep to come...in his own room, in his own bed...and without a snoring Ogre!

Rick7666

08-15-2007, 11:39 PM

Chapter 5: Blackburrow Ale Bombok wished he had a horse. It was still morning, though the Ratonga Paladin and Ogre Wizard had been traveling for several hours. They had broken camp as the sun rose and were now heading deep into the foothills of Antonica’s southern mountains. Alphonso and Bombok were certainly familiar with the area, for this is where they had spent several weeks hunting Gnolls for Lower Magistrate Rachelle – to prove Alphonso’s worth as a potential citizen of Qeynos. Alphonso was a citizen now…but there was one other, major difference between this foray and the last. When the duo was here before, they moved as cautious hunters - constantly seeking cover from the harassing Gnoll hordes that infested the area. This trip, however, saw them walking in the open…for on this trip they traveled with the veteran lady paladin “Petrazion.” The Gnolls knew Petrazion. Were any of the wiry canines foolish enough to attack this group, Petrazion would call down a wrathful storm of energy bolts to fry them to a crisp! Still – like rebellious children – one pack of Gnolls had to test the limit. Predictably, the heavens opened, and lightning sent the startled pups scurrying! When the regal High Elf paladin did this, Alphonso quietly said to Bombok, “I can do that.” A look of skepticism settled onto the Ogre’s broad face. Alphonso mumbled, “Well okay. Maybe it’s not quite as powerful…but someday.” Guildmaster Petrazion led the newest Forsaken Knights to a large cave entrance. While the cave mouth was completely natural, the wooden wall erected just inside was most assuredly not. Alphonso and Bombok looked about expectantly, but found no Gnoll guards. “’Seems kind of quiet for the front door to the Blackburrow den,” said Alphonso. Petrazion coolly smiled and opened the door built into the wall. “Don’t worry…you’ll see plenty inside.” The door was not even locked. On the other side stretched a long, dark cave -- with a surprisingly flat floor. With a gesture, Bombok lit the torch he was carrying, and Alphonso switched over to his night vision. Petrazion and Alphonso seemed confidently at ease in the cave, but not Bombok. He had spent his entire youth as a slave in the depressing stone tunnels of a Warlock’s dungeon. Now, any trip away from green grass and open sky reminded him of those dismal times. Still, Bombok gritted his teeth and concentrated on his mission. As their initiation into the prestigious guild of “the Forsaken Knights”, Bombok and Alphonso were tasked to steal some Gnoll brew from the Gnolls – in the middle the Gnolls’ own subterranean lair! There was no telling how far into this cold, dank mountain the brew was…or how unbearably narrow the Gnoll tunnels would get! Bombok winced, and bit his lip. Surely he himself could brew whatever drink Petrazion desired! There was no need for these catacombs! Thoughts of leaving crept into Bombok’s head – until he bludgeoned them flat with an imaginary side of beef. He would not abandon his friends! As the three adventurers walked farther into Blackburrow, Alphonso caught glimpses of Gnolls ducking deeper into the tunnel. The tunnel ended abruptly, opening onto a sunlit valley nestled among the peaks of the southern mountains. This hidden valley was the true entrance to Blackburrow lair. The valley walls were riddled with tunnels and, in the distance, there was the sound of a waterfall cascading into the hidden depths of the mountain. Petrazion pulled out a map and handed it to Bombok. “This is where I leave you, Gentlemen. Good luck, and I’ll see you back in Qeynos.” With that the lady Paladin turned and walked back the way they had come. Bombok was dumbstruck. “Pet leaves us HERE? ALONE??” Alphonso looked up at Bombok and remarked, “It wouldn’t be much of a test if she came with us, now would it? I think we should find some cover. I would prefer not to get ‘dog’ piled.” Bombok answered with “HA HA”…perhaps the first sarcastic laugh that Alphonso had ever heard from the Ogre. And Alphonso knew sarcasm. The next few hours were spent sneaking down long, winding tunnels; trying to read the map by flickering torch light; the occasional skirmish with Gnoll miners, and dodging the frequent patrols. In that there was only the two of them, they didn’t want to get overwhelmed by the Gnoll guards. At one point the sounds of a distant battle echoed off the walls! Alphonso and Bombok ran towards the sounds -- thinking that they might help a beleaguered party of fellow adventures and, in return, receive some help. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived the fight was long over. Dead Gnolls and gore made footing tricky, but as to who had caused the devastation -- there was no sign. Equally unfortunate, the small cavern that was the site of the battle had several exits and neither Alphonso or Bombok were trackers. The attackers would remain a mystery. A quick check of the dead revealed that they had been efficiently stripped of anything of value. And so the duo headed back the way they had come. Best to be away from the site quickly, thought Alphonso, as it was likely to attract the attention of more Gnoll guards. At last the pair came to a great cavern, where the sound of falling water was almost deafening! The diminutive Alphonso stood beside Bombok – frustrated at only being able to see the bottom of Bombok’s map. “So where to now?” Bombok stared at the map…then turned it over…and finally turned it back to the way he had it. “I think we SWIM under the water fall.” “You’re kidding. How am I supposed to swim? In this plate armor, I’ll sink like a rock! Isn’t there another way in?” “Not according to MAP.” Alphonso kicked the ground in disgust. “Are you telling me they swim everything in and out? Their furnishings? Their torches and lamps?? All their tools and supplies -???” “Why you asking BOMBOK? I just READ what it says on map!” Bombok pondered for a moment, and then gleefully bounced on his heels. “I KNOW! You take your armor OFF, and we TIE IT to some rope. When we get to other side of water, we pull it through -- and you put it BACK ON! Yes! That will work!” “And what if there are Gnolls on the other side?” “We’ll be STEALTHY. Doggies won’t even know we’re there!” Alphonso’s face scrunched up. “This is going to get us killed…”sigh”…but I don’t have a better plan.” Alphonso and Bombok quickly shucked their armor and clothing…until the noble Paladin and colorful Wizard were seemingly replaced by an underwear-clad Ratonga and Ogre. Alphonso motioned toward the water, “Well smart guy, it’s your brilliant plan…so be my guest.” Bombok loved to swim by the waterfall in Baubbleshire…though the wee residents of “the Shire” were not as amused. Convincing himself that this was no different, Bombok blurted out “Piece of cake!” and leapt into the dark waters. He immediately shot to the surface like a shivering piece of cork. “FAMILY JEWELS of RALLOS – Th-Th-THIS IS COLD!!” Alphonso doubled over with laughter! When he could get a word out, he replied “Of course it’s cold! We are deep underground!” Bombok’s teeth chattered. “L-L-Laugh it up, man-rat – YOU are next!” Taking a few deep breathes, Bombok dove beneath the surface with the surprising grace of a Brook Trout. A very stout Brook Trout. Alphonso tied a rope around his own waist…threw the bundled possessions on the other end of the rope as far as he could into the water…and then plunged in after them. Bombok found his way into the next open chamber by pulling himself along the rocky ceiling of the underwater tunnel. Breaking the surface he gulped down great lungfuls of air. The Ogre then looked about…spying a faint light from a tunnel at the far end of the cavern. His first instinct was to throw a fireball, to conveniently illuminate his surroundings – but he caught himself in time. While most of this great opening was shrouded in pitch blackness, he could vaguely make out a sandy beach. He swam toward it. Alphonso, on the other hand, had no problem seeing. His night vision worked just as well under water as in the air. Unfortunately, his rope was not long enough to reach the new shore…so Alphonso dove to the bottom, planted his feet, and pulled the load as far as he could before having to resurface to breath once more. The long swim in the dark frigid waters had chilled Alphonso and Bombok to the bone. They hurriedly made their way to a side passage to get warm and dry. Even though Bombok magically generated a small fire for them to get warm, the two decided to eat a cold meal…for the aromas of a cooked meal would carry far to the keen noses of the Gnolls. Alphonso leaned back and stretched, “Cold as that swim was, it is nice to be out of that armor… for at least a short while.” Bombok was taken aback by this statement. “But Bombok thought you were PROUD of your new Qeynosian-made armor.” “Well, I am…but I could find no Qeynosian armorer skilled in making plate for a Ratonga. It was hard enough to find armor in Freeport for myself. The cowardly Ratonga are not known for their martial prowess, and so seldom wear plate armor. As for Qeynos -- I had to have Dwarf and Gnome armor altered to fit. And…well…it chafes!” Bombok quietly chuckled. “Ho Ho! Which is why Wizards RULE! Comfortable clothes.” “They may well be comfortable, but those bath robes are not much good at stopping a swinging sword or thrusting spear.” “That is why Bombok is…er…DODGY.” Alphonso raised a single eye brow. And with no further comments coming, the two took a few hours rest…to prepare themselves for the challenge ahead.

Rick7666

08-15-2007, 11:55 PM

************************************************** ******* The two friends broke camp and resumed their journey with renewed vigor. The armored knight and fire-blasting mage were, as always, eager to wade into their latest foemen…but thought better of it. Instead, the oddly matched pair chose a tactic that was at odds with their aggressive professions. They reluctantly agreed that a frontal assault on the well-defended brewery would be suicidal…so they decided to try stealth. Not wanting to reveal their position, Bombok shuffled through the darkness with just the faintest magical glow emanating from his outstretched hand. All but blind, he unsteadily allowed himself to be pulled along by the hem of his robe. Oddly, even in full plate armor the nimble Ratonga moved more silently than the lumbering Ogre. Although the map only showed the main route to the brewery, the area was in fact teeming with side passages. Alphonso led Bombok down one and then another…and while the yips and growls of the Gnolls echoed all about them, they were always able to keep just out of sight of any wandering guards. After several hours of silently (and mostly-silently) moving from one tunnel to the next, Bombok was hopelessly lost, yet Alphonso moved from one tunnel to the next with total confidence. During one of the breaks Bombok nervously whispered, “Do you have ANY idea where we are?” “Oh, absolutely. As a child I had few playmates and would spend many days alone, exploring the catacombs beneath the castle. I never got lost. I always seemed to know exactly where I was.” Alphonso listened intently for a minute, and then added “I think we’ve worked our way around the back of the brewery…near a storage area. And from the sounds of things, I think they are closing up for the night.” Bombok stared unbelievingly at Alphonso. “HOW could you possible KNOW that?” Alphonso confidently replied, “Just now, the Gnolls said that it’s almost quitting time.” “The GNOLLS said -? Heh! When did YOU learn to speak Gnoll?” “Over the last few months. I’ve always had an affinity for languages. I know eight – no, ten languages now…including Ogre.” The last two words were grunted out in Oggish. Bombok rolled his eyes in silence, and wondered to himself about the burden his heroic little friend must carry. “To wear heavy plate armor and be so perfect…” The duo patiently waited another hour in their hiding place for the activity to completely quiet down…and then made their move. They crept into the brewery’s storage cavern. Casks of all sizes lined the walls, with a multitude of smaller kegs stacked neatly in the center of the chamber. Regrettably, a half dozen guards still remained in this particular cave, set to watch the various entrances. The hateful Gnolls always had guards – for everything - but this was deep in the Gnoll territory, so the armored Gnolls were understandably lax. Considerable time had passed since the last interloper had dared intrude this far. The diminutive Ratonga handed the gargantuan Ogre his halberd and silently motioned for Bombok to stay put. Alphonso then slowly moved across the room -- always keeping something between himself and the somewhat larger Gnolls. He gingerly pulled a smallish wooden cask of Ale from a stack, and turned back towards Bombok. The Ratonga knight then noticed something in the darkness that few others could have possibly seen. Moving along a ledge behind his Wizard friend was the small figure of a Halfling. The Halfling! With knife in hand, the Assassin was poised to finally make good on his contract on Bombok’s life! Stealth be damned! The rodent Paladin reached out a gauntleted hand and a torrent of divine energy engulfed the micro attacker! Bombok embarrassingly “eeped” like a little girl, and jumped to one side! Thunder echoed about the large chamber, soon to be replaced with howls of rage from the other side of the cave. The startled Gnoll guards would quickly be on them - but Alphonso didn’t even look back as he charged toward Bombok! One problem at a time! Bombok forced his eyes to recover from the flash of Alphonso’s bolts, and then saw the temporarily-stunned Halfling. “YOU?!?” Enraged Oggish instincts took over, and Bombok grabbed the would-be assassin in his oversized, calloused hands…and started to squeeze! Bombok’s ire was immediately interrupted, however, when he saw the pack of slavering fangs and claws running his way! “GAAH!” Again reacting on instinct, the Ogre threw the nearest object at the pack of Gnolls! The hurled Halfling impacted with a clattering “THUD”, and knocked four Gnolls to the ground! Not waiting around to see what became of the Halfling, Alphonso and Bombok ran down the tunnel! A clanging sound of alarm rang through the Burrow! The entire Gnoll clan now knew they had invaders! Having nothing to lose at this point, Bombok cast a fiery aura around his entire body, to light their escape – or, perhaps, their quick death! Running slightly ahead of Bombok, Alphonso suddenly realized that he was still holding the keg of stolen ale! Without breaking stride, he and Bombok exchanged keg for halberd. With his trusty, bladed pole arm, Alphonso was ready for the inevitable combat! The pair’s headlong flight skidded to a halt as they entered a juncture of several tunnels. Waiting for them were four Gnoll fighters, and a spellcaster of some sort. The largest Gnoll fighter growled, “You come to steal our ale, but you have found only your deaths.” Bombok responded to the barking gibberish with his best scowl...but Alphonso stepped forward in a defensive stance and boldly growled back in Gnollish, “Death walks in my shadow.” Alphonso called back to Bombok in Oggish, “Magic-caster is YOURS. Keep him off my FOOT-REST.” Alphonso’s Oggish needed some work. Nonetheless, Bombok grunted in agreement. The large, center Gnoll – armed with a spear and shield - lunged forward! Alphonso deftly knocked aside the charge with his halberd and continued his spin - hacking into a dagger-holding Gnoll on his left! The force of Alphonso’s blow nearly severed the right arm of the dagger-Gnoll, and sent him stumbling into the larger Gnoll spear-carrier! The Paladin then spun back to his original stance, ducking the sword swing of another Gnoll. Before the swordsman could swing again, he was forced back with a flurry of jabs from Alphonso’s far-reaching halberd. The Gnoll fighter tried to deflect the attacks with his wooden shield, but the halberd instead pierced through the shield - narrowly missing the shield bearer! With Alphonso’s weapon imbedded, a fourth Gnoll - wielding a mace - smashed down towards Alphonso’s head! The dodging Paladin’s right armored shoulderguard was smashed and deformed instead…but other than causing the Paladin to stumble a bit to the right, Alphonso stood uninjured. With surprising strength, the Ratonga knight whirled his halberd – and the Gnoll shield carrier attached to it – to one side. The halberd dislodged, while the shield and carrier went flying into a nearby wall! Coiling now into an aggressive stance, the Paladin prepared to launch his next attack. He cried out to his comrade, “BOMBOK?? How fares the –“ Sparing a moment to glance past his foes, Alphonso saw that the Gnoll Mystic was now encased in a solid block of ice. Alphonso grinned. “Oh.” Bombok continued to cast as fast as he could. His next spell sent translucent chains arcing out of the floor, and around the largest of the Gnolls. The Ogre then sent a wave of eldritch flames sweeping through the subterranean hall - filling the area with the smell of burnt dog hair! A bolt of lightning followed – aimed at the quickly-thawing Mystic. Bombok’s spells were very effective against the attacking Gnolls. Maybe too effective…for the largest Gnoll – scorched, but still locked in magic chains – stared balefully at the Ogre. The Gnoll leader had obviously lost interest in the annoying Ratonga Paladin. The Gnoll leader barked out orders to his two remaining fighters. Bombok could only puzzle at what the Gnoll said, until one of the Gnolls squared off against Alphonso charged toward him! Bombok hastily threw one more fire spell before the Gnoll fighter was there, hacking at him with a sword! Bombok used every ounce of his skill with the staff, trying to block the barrage of attacks – but it was obviously a losing battle! And with no respite, he could not pause to cast another spell! With a growing collection of bloody tears in his robes, the end was surely near. An Ogre was about to lose his life to a tiny GNOLL! For once, Bombok was glad to be deep underground. “Better that no one SEE this,” he thought. Suddenly a series of loud barks and growls halted the bloodthirsty Gnoll swordsman. Alphonso had yelled something in Gnollish! A look of pure rage – even more than what a Gnoll normally had – twisted his canine face…and the Gnoll deserted Bombok to once again attack the Paladin! Alphonso stepped over the decapitated body of the formerly-mace-wielding Gnoll: bloodied – but not with his own blood! He growled to the incoming swordsman, “Time to join your fellows in hell!” The battle was joined, but not fairly – for Bombok also blasted the Gnoll from a safe distance! The Paladin and Wizard made short work of the ill-tempered swordsman, who was soon lying in an expanding pool of his own blood. Alphonso then whirled to face the last of the Gnolls – only to find a spear through his breastplate! The largest Gnoll had broken free of his magic bonds and had instantly charged Alphonso! The Gnoll spearman impaled Alphonso through the chest, carrying him all the way to the wall! Stunned, Alphonso dropped his halberd. At the same time, the Gnoll Mystic - who had also freed himself - unleashed a storm of magic on the bewildered Bombok! Pinned to the wall, the Gnoll leader snarled in Alphonso’s face, “Now you die, Rat.” With blood in his mouth the Ratonga Paladin coughed, “Not today, dog, and not by you.” With that, Alphonso kicked the Gnoll backwards…painfully pulled himself off the spear…and slumped to the ground. “ALPHONSO!!” Seeing his friend mortally wounded, Bombok channeled his dismay into one final, focused spell. A rain of giant ice shards impossibly passed through the cave roof, impaling both remaining Gnolls! The fight was over. Bombok ignored his many wounds and ran to the side of his fallen comrade! “You – you haven’t cured your CURSE yet, Sir Alphonso! You CAN’T die today! You CAN’T!” Alphonso looked up, smiling. “You forget, I’m a Paladin.” With those words a golden glow engulfed the kneeling Ratonga. Bombok had seen this before, weeks earlier in his apartment…but this time the effect was much stronger. Alphonso stiffly stood up. The hole was still in his armor, but not in his chest. Alphonso grinned, “Hey, what was with the ice storm? That was really impressive.” The Paladin paused…then shook the Ogre in frustration. “Now, WHY DIDN’T YOU DO THAT SPELL FIRST??” Bombok stammered “But - that was Bombok’s EMERGENCY spell! A HUGE endurance drain! Heh! Sorcery is not some BOTTOMLESS bag of tricks. I need to PACE myself, CONSERVE my mana, and – HEY! Bombok doesn’t tell YOU how to swing a pig-sticker!” “Halberd.” “Whatever!” Alphonso looked around. “I just noticed, we are shy one Gnoll.” Bombok mused “I guess he ran off.” Alphonso grimly replied “Yeah, to go scare up some friends, no doubt. We need to get moving.” As the pair quickly recalculated their way out of the labyrinth of caves, one question remained unanswered. “er…Before Bombok forgets - what did you SAY to those Gnolls that [Removed for Content] them off so much??” Aphonso’s just smiled. “Now is really not the time.” Bombok retrieved the miraculously unbroken cask while Alphonso grabbed his cherished halberd. The sound of multitudinous angry Gnolls drew closer. Standing in front of one of the tunnels, Alphonso beckoned to Bombok, “This way is clear. I think we had better make a run for it.” The tunnel wound its way through the mountain, but soon opened into a much larger cavern. With the sounds of mass pursuit close on their heels, the pair ran for the far side of the grotto – only to find their escape tunnel flooded! Exasperated, Alphonso glared at the water, “This is just great. The water smells salty. I think I hear thunder. This might lead out to the sea.” At that moment a flood of Gnolls swarmed into the cavern! The Paladin yelled at the Wizard, “GO! I’ll be right behind you!” “You had BETTER be.” with that, Bombok grabbed the ale keg and dove into the briny water. The salt stung Bombok’s open wounds like acid – but the adrenaline rush could only help him now! Alphonso knew he needed to give his friend a few moments to get free, so he stood his ground. The bold Ratonga defiantly raised his halberd above his head and shouted, “I am Sir Alphonso Salvador D’Antoni, Paladin of Mithaniel Marr ‘the Truthbringer.’” As the swiftest Gnolls reached him, the Paladin called down a tempest of holy energy - stunning them with its “cleansing” energies. He then turned and dove into the water and – as predicted - sank like a rock to the bottom of the deep channel! ABOMINABLE armor! The tunnel did indeed lead out to the sea. Bombok soon found himself on a moonlit shore, staring back out over the water…searching for any sign of his friend. Several nerve-racking minutes later, a lone, dark figure broke the surface! Gasping for breath, Alphonso swam toward shore. Before the Ratonga’s feet could even touch bottom, the Ogre rushed into the waves and swept Alphonso up into one of his patented bear hugs! Cheering to the heavens Bombok yelled, "WE MADE IT!” Alphonso couldn’t help but laugh… but when they made it to the shore, Alphonso’s mood turned a little dark. The knight was no longer wearing his armor. “Yeah, we made it alright, but my new plate is at the bottom of a Gnoll tunnel. We still have a three day trek back to Qeynos…and I’ll be walking through the gates looking the vagabond.” Bombok lifted up the cask of Gnoll ale, “Then REJOICE, vagabond, for we have PASSED the initiation! Clothes or not, we are part of a noble guild! We are FORSAKEN KNIGHTS!” Alphonso grinned despite himself, and commented to Bombok in Oggish, “THANK you for protecting my foot-rest.” Bombok chuckled, and replied in Oggish, “No…Thank you for protecting MY foot-rest.” The Ogre pondered to himself, “Maybe Bombok should CORRECT him.” “…Someday.”

Rick7666

08-23-2007, 11:20 PM

Chapter 6: A Forsaken Party The evening after Alphonso’s triumphant return to Qeynos, his new apartment seemed to laugh and sing with activity. Having successfully snuck into the Gnoll stronghold of Blackburrow…having stolen a small keg of precious Gnoll Ale…and having barely fought their way out – Alphonso, and his Ogre friend Bombok, had passed the guild initiation. They were now officially “Forsaken Knights”! Nearly a dozen of their fellow “Forsakens” had been in Qeynos, and rapidly answered Guildmaster Petrazion’s call to meet in the Castleview district…and cheerfully introduce themselves to their newest members. As a good host, Alphonso felt obliged to fetch food and drink for his guests (though Bombok did most of the legwork). Soon bottles, glasses, and an ale keg appeared alongside the stolen Gnoll beverage. The drinks were quickly accompanied by sandwiches, smoked meats, and pastries…and extra chairs…and extra people! Indeed, neighbors, friends, and “friends-of-friends” soon crowded what should have been a spacious apartment! All were welcome…especially those that brought gifts! As though with a life of its own, Alphonso and Bombok’s induction to the Forsaken Knights had grown into a full-fledged housewarming party! Various tables with various foods lined the walls. Small groups of guests – invited and otherwise – hovered from table to table like bees in a field of flowers. A pair of troubadours played at the back of the room while a few merry souls danced. Alphonso visibly enjoyed the role of host. The Ratonga paladin - having lost his plate armor days earlier – now wore simple but elegant clothes. His characteristic monocle in place, Alphonso moved among his guildmates and guests…smiling, making genial small talk and ensuring that a good time was had by all. Bombok, meanwhile, busied himself attending to the food…applying magical flame to food needing warmth, and chill to otherwise-warming drinks. Even the crowed room was filled with comfortably cool temperatures, thanks to the hulking wizard! On a hot day, no reputable gathering was complete without a Wizard to “condition the air.” The Ogre occasionally glanced over at his comrade-in-arms –- amazed at how effortlessly his former roommate played the part of sophisticate host. It was almost as if he had grown up training to socialize in these types of functions…and if Alphonso’s stories were true, then he had! Perhaps he was a human noble, after all. Even Bombok sometimes doubted the supposed “curse”, though Alphonso had never given him reason to. The Forsaken Knights mingling with the crowd prominently included the guild’s stately “den mother,” PETRAZION…and her impetuous daughter, “BLAZINGTHUNDER.” “Little Blaze,” as Bombok had already taken to calling her, laughed and joked more than her mother…yet was also a Paladin of growing renown. The Iksar Fury “ETERNELECLIPSE” quietly skulked among the shadows…a moody reptilian who had obviously betrayed his original home and people. The Gregarious young Wood Elf Warden “WUVIE” chatted with all…while keeping her arm around her inseparable companion, “SQIGMOND.” Most assumed that the grim Dwarf Guardian was mute…until Sqigmond occasionally grunted in agreement or displeasure. A Wood Elf Conjuror, “JENIPHUR,” relayed the contents of her latest letter from the guild member called “SHADOWFAX.” Shadowfax, a Dark Elf Necromancer, was still a citizen of Freeport…and secretly served as the guild’s eyes and ears into the city of evil. A Gnome Conjurer, “ZAUBERER”, argued some obscure intellectual issue with the Erudite Illusionist, “MEZZUMAN.” These were Forsaken Knights all. …And then there was the Ratonga Healer, NUSUMU. Coincidentally, Alphonso kept finding himself looking in her direction – only to have his eyes meet hers. He would then look away…but not wanting to look like he was avoiding her gaze, he would again look in her direction – and again the two were staring at each other! This nonsense continued throughout the night. Alphonso appeared next to Bombok. “Well done, Bombok! This unplanned affair is an unqualified success due to your labors! The minstrels were a nice touch.” The Ogre shrugged. “They’re not mine! Heh! BOMBOK doesn’t know WHERE they came from.” Alphonso rolled his dark eyes. “Splendid. Hide the silver and fine china…if I had any.” “HA! You have nothing WORTH stealing!” “Just give it time, friend. Eh…Just how did you amass all these spirits and victuals on short notice? Magic??” “No! BOMBOK has CONNECTIONS! The Orange Wine and Crab Puffs are BOMBOK’S. I bartered Bombok’s SERVICES for the others.” Alphonso smiled slyly. “Services in the kitchen…or in the bedchambers?” Bombok looked confused for a moment, than rolled with laughter. “What do -? OH! HAW HAW HAW! GOOD one!” The small paladin once more looked across the room at the Guildmaster, Petrazion…just as he had been doing all night. Bombok noticed. “Speaking of ‘bedchambers’…I see you have MORE than a little interest in ‘PET’? Heh Heh…Maybe you set your sights TOO HIGH for THIS conquest, eh? Bombok would go easy…” In all seriousness, Alphonso turned and glared at the Ogre. “Bombok…were you not who you are, I would have to strike you down.” Bombok’s ashen face flushed a little, but – surprisingly – he said nothing. Alphonso continued, in a low tone. “My interest in Petrazion is NOT romantic, NOT sexual, or anything of that base sort. I honor her. She is an ideal: an accomplished Paladin and respected hero of Qeynos, as I hope to be one day. She is also a well-bred, well-cultured noble…much like… my late mother…” Alphonso paused, as he himself was unaware of his feelings until now. He had no time to dwell on them, however, as a fellow Forsaken Knight approached him. A female Healer of the “Warden” class. A Ratonga female. Bombok again smiled, and took the opportunity to step away. “This is a sweets-good apartsment, Sir Alphonso. Though the apartsment – ands the owner – coulds use a female touch. …And you haves this alone? Poor thing! Won’ts you gets lonely, you think?” “Hello again, Nusumu. Erm…this domicile will do, for now…though I consider it but a waypoint on my path to bigger and better things.” Alphonso tried his polite best to ignore Nusumu’s focused stare…her overly-interested head tilt…and her stroking her neck. She was possibly attractive, but Alphonso legitimately did not know. She was not human, humanoid or human-like! In Alphonso’s eyes, she might as well have been a Troll. “No mate…and no snuggles for handsome Alphonso, hmmm? If this is so, there is no justice! You shoulds get out more, Sir Knight! Nusumu can shows you places in Qeynos…and elsewheres…” “Heh heh! That’s very kind, madame…but I don’t…em…your time is valuable, I’m sure, so…” “DANCE with me, Alphonso! Come! It’s easy!” Nusumu caressed Alphonso’s arm, and worked her way down to his hand…” “Ands with a little coaxing, we cans have the Troubadours plays a slow dance…” Alphonso recoiled, and spoke in a cracked voice just above a whisper. “Madame, please! I cannot! You see, I am not what I seem. I am HUMAN. A MAN! This outward form is just the result of a magical curse… from when I was but a baby…” Nusumu squinted and stared at him for a minute. Then she sniffed him…and smiled slightly.“Very funs-amusing you are. You are Ratonga. I knows.” Alphonso sputtered, “How can you knows? Er- KNOW? My magical curse –“ “I can smells magic. And a bigs-powerful shape-changing curse? I could really smells that. But on you – I just smells Ratonga!” Nusumu confidently turned away (to show her shapely tail)…took two steps…than looked back. “You calls Nusumu when you gets your head right, handsome Alphonso.” The unarmored “Ratonga” paladin dropped into an open chair, as if clocked by a mace. Could Nusumu really “smell” magic – or the lack thereof? What if the she-rat was right? Qeynos had an entire tower of mages that could conclusively answer the question of his humanity…but NO. Alphonso knew who and what he was…and that was that! He quietly cursed himself for having even a moment of doubt! Stupefied by his encounter with Nusumu, Alphonso stood quietly for several moments. Looking around, the host was momentarily astonished by the turnout for his house warming party. The Paladin made eye contact with several of the party goers…and instead of the scowls or being ignored - which was the standard response he received while growing up - many smiled or even waved at him. The murmur of various conversations swept over him like a wave, but one voice carried over the rest like that of a wave crashing over the rocks. Bombok was in an animated conversation with Petrazion and Blazingthunder. Amused Alphonso thought to himself, “Does Bombok have any other kind of conversation?” Bombok caught Alphonso looking in his direction and excitedly waved him over. “Pet, tell ALPHONSO what you just told Bombok!” Petrazion looked at Alphonso and said, “I was just telling Bombok that I was surprised that you hadn’t gotten your Spirit Steed yet.” Baffled, Alphonso looked at each of the taller people, “I’m sorry, but what is a Spirit Steed?” Both Petrazion and her daughter looked surprised. “I thought you had said that your father was a Paladin. Wouldn’t he have told you about one of the Paladin’s greatest blessings?” Alphonso stated, matter-of-factly, “I have not seen my father since I was very small. He has been off questing for a way to break my curse. I had hoped to have run into him here in Qeynos, but I haven’t found anyone who has heard of him.” Petrazion queried, “What was your father’s name?” “Aldo Santo D’Antoni.” Petrazion and her daughter looked at each other, then sympathetically turned back to the Ratonga knight. “My apologies, but we haven’t heard of him either. I’m sorry to have to say this, but there is the possibility that your father died.” Alphonso nodded. “I had considered that, but it still doesn’t change my course. At the very least, if he is dead, then I will find his body and bury him next to Mother. But you were saying something about a Spirit Steed?” The elder Elven knight’s attractive features lightened. “Yes! The Spirit Steed is the Paladin’s mount and constant companion: a gift to all Paladins from Tunare, ‘the Mother of All’. The Spirit Steed is not just a horse; it is linked to the Paladin, a part of her very soul. The Steed doesn’t just carry the Paladin about but also fights with her.” Alphonso was obviously interested. “Where would I find such a Steed?” The serene Petrazion smiled. “Ah, that is a true soul quest for the Paladin. I cannot tell you where to find your Steed - only that, in seeking, you will find it.” At that Bombok laughed, “Heh! CRYPTIC are the ways of the Paladin.”*************************************************

Rick7666

08-23-2007, 11:31 PM

************************************************* In the midst of systematically mingling with each of his guests, Alphonso eventually made his way to a tall, sinister Iksar. His actual name being nearly unpronounceable, the Iksar’s fellow guildmates had resorted to calling him the closest, Common approximation: “Eterneleclipe.” The reptilian guildmember sternly nodded a hello, then asked “Good Alphonssso…Whyfor do you become a Forsssaken Knight?” This struck Alphonso odd. He had internally contemplated his reasons to join this guild…but now that someone had actually asked the question, he had to fish for the words. “Petrazion the Dedicated”… is a veteran Paladin of great…impeccable reputation. I would learn what she can teach me.” A naturally suspicious type, the Iksar seemed to scowl. “Isss that the all of it? Isss that the sssole reassson?” Alphonso met the Iksar’s intensity without flinching. “No…my apprenticeship is not the all of it. I am…an outcast here in Qeynos…yet I wish to do great things for my adopted city. Given the chance, I would prove my worth to my adopted home…and perhaps favorably increase my influence and stature in the process.” Eterneleclipse lightly nodded in approval, then moved on. “Then TO IT, good knight.” What Alphonso said was true, as far as it went…but there was more left unspoken. Alphonso knew that he had ambitions, and felt a little guilty because of it. With a cooperative base of guildmates he would expand his power and influence…not just for himself, but for his faraway kingdom. One day, when he was ready, Alphonso knew he would return to his homeland in a position of strength! Joining the Forsaken Knights was – among other things – a strategic first step towards that end! And yet…that was not the all of it, either. There was also the potential of friendship, on a scale he had never known. Alphonso grew up with a dearth of friends. He never needed them. He was raised as royalty and trained to be selective with his associates! And yet…with such rigidity and propriety, he would surely have been the poorer. In another life, he would have never sought the friendship of a lowly peasant mage – and an Ogre, at that. “Great Marr – what an arrogant jerk I might have been!” thought the banished Ratonga nobleman. By this time, Alphonso noticed that Eterneleclipse had made his way to Bombok. Not wishing to be rude, Alphonso meant to turn away – but he could not help but eavesdrop on the conversation. “Bombok…whyfor did you become a Forsssaken Knight?” The Ogre pondered for a moment, then replied “Because they ASKED me.” Alphonso stifled a guffaw. There was no hidden agenda or master plan for Bombok Bricksmash! The Ogre had lived his life in a dungeon, and happily escaped to the green canyon of Baubbleshire. Now, every day not in a dungeon was enough for Bombok!************************************************** ** After several hours, Alphonso made his way to the back of the room and stood upon the bed. Rapping his monocle on his glass he said, “Can I have your attention? I want to thank you all for coming and I want to propose a toast. To the glory of Qeynos and our queen Antonia Bayle…and to the Forsaken Knights - who have, this night, allowed two humble seekers of the light to join them!” Cheers went up from the crowd. Alphonso stepped off the bed and again moved through the crowd. As people went back to their conversations several attendees choose to lean on one of the tables. The additional weight was simply too much for the rickety table and it collapsed - landing people and food on the floor! Conversation again stopped and people stared. Alphonso and Bombok rushed to help the unfortunates back to their feet. An examination of the pieces of table revealed that a combination of low quality wood and poor craftsmanship resulted in the collapse. Alphonso, in a rare show of restraint, forced on a smile and said, “A party isn’t really a party until some furniture gets broken. Well, I guess it’s time to call it a night!” Several of the party goers tried to help with the clean up, but Alphonso shooed them out the door. As the last of the guests left, Bombok could see Alphonso’s barely-restrained temper was ready to boil over. As soon as the door was closed, Alphonso exploded. “BY MARR, WHAT KIND OF GARBAGE ARE THE CRAFTSMEN AROUND HERE PASSING OFF ON PEOPLE!!! ‘CRAFTSMEN’? THEY AREN’T CRAFTSMEN! THEY ARE HACKS - CHARLATANS! Why, I could make a better table than this. I HAVE NEVER BEEN SO HUMILIATED IN MY LIFE!” Bombok had seen Alphonso’s temper flare-ups before and would normally wait them out, but this was just too much. Before Alphonso could continue, the towering Ogre blurted out “Now HOLD a minute - THIS is the most humiliating thing in your life?? What about the peasants in your homeland – REVOLTING against you and TOSSING you out to sea? THIS?? Heh! THIS is just spilled food on the floor.” The robed Ogre’s usual smile disappeared as he sternly continued. “Bombok KNOWS you are wound tight. There is often STRENGTH in your fury…but THIS? THIS is just a TANTRUM – and BOMBOK has had ENOUGH of it. Are you a PALADIN or a SPOILED BRAT??” Alphonso stopped shouting and just stared at Bombok: his furry little Ratonga face frozen in shock. Bombok began to wonder if he had pushed his aristocratic friend too far. Nobles weren’t known for their even tempers - especially deposed nobles. Alphonso finally shook his head in astonishment and said, “No one has ever spoken to me like that. I’ve been insulted about looking like a Ratonga, but I’ve never been called a “spoiled brat.” Maybe I am overreacting…but I really didn’t see being tossed out to sea as humiliating. Really, they were just ignorant peasants and it doesn’t take much to get them to revolt. That’s why lords have so many guards: to fend off internal as well as external enemies. Mother, on the other hand, didn’t keep many armsmen. But I digress… Tonight I was among peers…and the collapse of my shoddy table was a statement of my incompetence.” “Your ‘incompetence’? How so? YOU didn’t make the table…and WHO would blame YOU for the collapse? YOU are not a carpenter.” Alphonso contemplated Bombok’s statement for a minute and then said, “You know what? That is an excellent idea.” Bombok looked puzzled, “Yes, well – eh? WHAT idea?” “Becoming a carpenter. I could hardly do worse than this - and I think I can do a whole lot better.” Alphonso walked over to the broken table and picked up a splintered leg. “I think I should start by gathering my own wood. The quality of the wood available is obviously suspect. Thanks for the suggestion.” Bombok smiled crookedly, “Heh Heh! What are friends for?”