No Good Deed (6 page)

“So, now Lucinda was a full blown paladin, the Paladin of War, but she had to learn the rules. This is how she found out.

‘So, I can go beat up Obidaan now, smite him like he did me?’

‘Not exactly,’ said Lord War, ‘there are rules you must follow. He didn’t exactly smite you as much as you gave up. As a paladin, you answer only to your gods, not to kings, queens, emperors, or the local law. In some places, you may be the law, dispensing paladin justice. You can’t do it half—cocked and you can’t go doing things simply because you want to. But there are differences between you and Obidaan, rest assured.’

‘The first rule of paladinhood is No paladin may harm another. To help enforce this rule, as a courtesy, you will buy a round for another paladin if you both find yourselves in such establishments.’ Lady War was reading the list. ‘Second, if a paladin gives their word on something, it is binding. Now here is where you and Obidaan differ. Obidaan must keep to the letter and spirit of his word; you need only keep to the letter. So guard your promises carefully. Third, No paladin may server as ruler or other recognized authority. You are above all mortal laws.’” Alister stopped at this point, and stood up. “There’s more, but these are all the relevant points. Thank you and have a pleasant afternoon.”

Alister stood there for a few moments. The crowd was in stunned silence, no one had heard this story before and it was taking a while to sink in. Then a lone applause was heard. It was Lucinda, now standing.

“You truly are an expert on paladins.” She stopped clapping so she could talk, “No one has gotten it right before. I am the Paladin of War, not Death. Everyone gets it wrong and I don’t bother to correct them. You’re the first one to get it right. It seems I underestimated you. Thank you.” She began applauding again. This time the whole place erupted. Alister bowed, holding out his hat, people threw coins onto the stage. After collecting them he made his way back to the group.

“That was an amazing story, Alister.” Mordechi said, “I had no idea. So truly no one chooses their paladinhood, even the evil ones.”

“Especially the evil ones.” Alister quipped, “Unlike those on the side of good, they are usually asked and feel an obligation many on the side of evil are blackmailed into it. Neither wants to do it but feel better them than someone else. Right, Obidaan?”

“Exactly. Still I can’t help feeling somewhat responsible,” Obidaan was on his third ale now.

“OK, let me put this to bed for you,” Alister said and looked him dead in the eye, “she was going to be chosen. All the gods were doing were waiting for the right moment. The only thing you provided was that moment. Had it not been then it was coming; they were just waiting for the appropriate time to make a dramatic entrance.”

Obidaan’s new power indicated Alister was not lying or embellishing like he was on stage. A wave of relief came over Obidaan and he smiled for the first time since he saw Lucinda in the pub. “Thank you, Alister. I appreciate that.”

“About time,” Terry said, “Well looks like they’re going to lighten the mood around here, here comes a band.” The band struck up. “Let’s dance. Mordechi, would you care to dance?”

Mordechi had been enjoying his day, no sense in it ending now. “I’d love to.” They went to the middle of the bar and began dancing. Soon Obidaan and Relina and others couples joined in.

“Hit the dance floor, buddy,” Alister said to Don, “Lots of lovely ladies around.”

“Maybe later.”

“Suit yourself,” Alister hopped out of his chair. There were several ladies he could have chosen but he had one obvious choice in mind. Heading over, he bowed and asked, “Would you care to dance, my lovely?”

“I thought you’d never ask,” Lucinda replied. Taking him by the hand, she led him to the dance floor. He was the envy and ire of everyone there. Obidaan and Relina just smiled and shook their heads.

They danced the afternoon away. Lucinda and Alister were getting to know each other better. Don finally got on the dance floor. Terry had a waiting list and Obidaan and Relina danced till they got tired.

“Wow, this has been some afternoon. It’s almost dinner time,” Relina said, “Should we stay here or leave?”

“Not sure, let see what the others want. I’m flexible.”

As they waited, a messenger came into the bar, looking around, he spotted Obidaan. He walked over to him and tapped him on the shoulder.

“Yes, may I help you?”

“Obidaan Grailann?”

“Yes.”

“This message is for you, from the king, please read it at your convenience. I am to wait for a reply, however long that is.”

“Well, don’t want to keep you from your family and free time. I’ll read it now.” He took the letter and read over it quickly. “Tell the king this evening and it will be a party of five for dinner.”

“Very good, sir.” The messenger shuffled off back to the palace.

“What was that about?” Relina asked.

“Looks like we’ll be dining with the King. He has a mission for us.”

Mordechi thoroughly
enjoyed himself at the bar. For a few hours he forgot about everything. Forgot about the prophecy, the dreams, and all the negative feelings he had been having. He wished the feelings would last and he was going to hold on to them as long as he could.

Obidaan called the group back over to the table, Mordechi was there also, “Looks like we may have a mission people.” Obidaan said matter—of—factly. “No rest for the vigilant, but we will get a good meal out of it,” he said with a laugh.

“What’s up?” Don asked.

“We have a dinner date with the King.”

“Wonderful,” Alister chimed in, “I’ve always wanted to check out the castle, do a command performance. This should really enhance my reputation,” Alister was all starry—eyed as he imagined himself on stage in the castle giving a command performance, people throwing flowers and money, and the queen throwing him her room key. He was quickly brought back to reality as Don thumped him on the back of the head.

“Always about you, eh? Well, if it was for you, how come Obidaan got the invitation?”

Alister was undeterred by reality, “Well he is a paladin, while I am merely a bard,” he made the accompanying hand gestures with much flamboyance. “They had to invite him to get to me. I’m sure I shall be asked to perform.” Everyone laughed.

“Such a swollen head,” Relina interjected, “it’s a wonder it doesn’t burst.”

“So,” a voice came from beyond the table, “you got an invite too, though I have to admit, that’s pretty short notice, considering I got mine weeks ago,” it was Lucinda. “Well, I look forward to seeing you tonight. And I hope that command performance of yours is as good as your history lesson earlier, dear,” she walked up to Alister and planted one on him squarely on the lips. “Tonight,” was all she said, and then departed.

“Why would they invite her too?” Relina asked.

“There are obvious political motives behind our summons. It must deal with some political hot potato.” Obidaan said. “Whenever you summon two paladins, one from each side, it means there are very tricky politics to deal with. One or both of us may get the mission. If it’s just one of us, the other is there as an observer, to see that things were done fairly and to check for hidden agendas. It also means that we will be dealing with some not so nice countries and she is there to give their perspective. How they would react to whatever situation we may face. I doubt our king is going to employ her. Politically, it would be way too risky, especially considering he has a paladin who already resides in his capital city.”

“Who’s got the big ego now?” Alister piped in.

“It’s not about ego, it’s about politics,” Obidaan asserted. “If she resided here, he would use her; otherwise you use the closest one you can find, depending on your ethics and nature of the mission. I’ve never met our king, but by the way he runs things, I believe him to be a righteous man. I believe she is here as an observer. Something very big has happened.”

“Definitely explains Gunther, then. That’s my guess.” Terry said.

“Probably,” Obidaan said, “but I’m not jumping to any conclusions.”

“He must trust you’ll do well,” Mordechi was now putting in his opinion. “Several years ago, when you had just become a paladin, he had need of a paladin for negotiating a treaty he sent out for Takishmore Landseer to handle the negotiations. The primary reason was because you had just come into being a paladin, where Takishmore had over ten years on you. Takishmore is still around but I guess he isn’t needed here. I think congratulations are in order,” he extended his hand to Obidaan. Obidaan quickly grasped it and they exchanged a hardy handshake and hug. Mordechi had had many flashes of prophesy when dealing with people, so he did not flinch when a vision of a barren wasteland, with Obidaan standing before it, smiling almost laughing, flashed through his mind. He continued his smile. Obidaan did not notice it but Relina did.

She walked over to him as the other were breaking up, paying up, and getting ready to leave, “Is everything ok?”

“Fine my dear, just fine.” Mordechi was fumbling with his change purse.

“You’re a bad liar,” she said curtly.

“Indeed,” he pulled her off to the side, “I worry about Obidaan. Let’s just say I’ve had some visions and I am concerned.”

Relina was set aback. “Is…is he going to be ok? Does it have to do with the coming darkness?”

Mordechi smiled a reassuring smile. “He’ll be fine. I’m worried about some actions, well into the future.” He could almost feel the carnation loose its warmth but he ignored it.

“Your lying hasn’t improved in the past minute.” Relina injected.

Moredechi shook his head, “Come to me after your mission. We’ll discuss things.” At that, he kissed Relina on the forehead, dropped some coins on the table and faced the others. “Thank you very much for inviting me. I can’t remember the last time I had so much fun. Good luck with the king, I shall pray for you all.” Collective goodbyes were exchanged and Mordechi left, heading back to the church, his home.

Obidaan walked over to Relina, he noticed the exchange between Mordechi and her, “Is everything ok?”

“Church business,” she replied nonchalantly.

“Ah, ok.” Though her answer was vague, it was still the truth so Obidaan did not sense any deception, though it was clearly there.

As they left the inn, Obidaan looked over at Don and asked, “So what is the proper etiquette for visiting a king?”

“Donder? You’re asking him? Why not me?” Alister piped in.

“Because, unlike you, Don has actually met kings. Besides, his order teaches etiquette to its members. If anyone knows the proper way to greet a king, it’s him. Have you greeted one?”

“No, but I know several stories of people who have.”

“Sorry, you’re not getting to answer this one,” Terry said, “You’ll just have to deal with being part of the background.”

Alister didn’t say anything after that.

“Technically, you don’t have to do anything,” Don began to explain, “it’s the other way around. The king will have to greet you. Being a paladin, you are above all politics. As a result, kings, queens, and emperors have to show you respect. Either way, I would still dress in my finest clothes, be polite, and courteous. One thing though, during dinner, don’t eat until the king starts. For you it won’t be a faux pas, but it is a sign of respect. I would suspect that Lucinda will ignore most of the rules. She knows she is there at her convenience not his.”

“Thank you. Well, I guess we should all go home and get ready. Meet at our place at 7:30.”

“Just think,” Alister started, “this could be your crowning achievement”

“Yeah,” Terry entered the fray, “unless of course your get ‘throne’ out for bad etiquette.”

“Don’t worry,” Don said, “I have my book of etiquette at home, and I’ll bring it. It’s a fine couth tome.”

“As long as Obidaan doesn’t eye the queen. He can look at any one ‘cept her.” Relina interjected.

“Ow, just stop it.” Obidaan said, “All this is giving me a royal headache.”

Massive groans were now filling the air, along with giggles.

As everyone
waited, a coach with the royal crest showed up.

“Well met! I am here to drive you to the castle, please hop aboard and make yourselves comfortable.”

“Thank you, good sir..” Obidaan replied as he opened the door. Everyone filed in and they were off.

“This must be important,” Alister said, “oh, and don’t worry about them hearing us, royal coaches are sound proofed, that way important business can be discussed without fear of eaves dropping.”

Taking his bait, Terry answered in a sing—songy sarcastic manner. “What makes you say that, O wise one?”

“Because,” Alister was unphased, “we are being escorted by the Captain—of—the—Guard. It would seem to me one in such a position would have better things to do than escort duty. Usually it’s the Lieutenant, or even more common the Sergeant for dignitaries, depending on importance. Even other kings don’t get the Captain, unless a high affair is concerned.”

Obidaan was curious, “How could you tell?”

“Two things,” Alister loved imparting knowledge or more appropriately, showing off, “first, the hand crossbow indicates he is an officer. Second, the design of his sword hilt shows he is the Captain—of—the—Guard.”

“Nice observation,” Obidaan said.

They passed in silence for a few minutes, when Relina broke the silence.

“Obidaan, my love.”

“Yes, dearest?” he knew when she put something in that tone he had to give her his undivided attention.

“About Lucinda.”

“Ask away.”

Though no one changed position, everyone was paying close attention to the oncoming conversation.

“Now, I’m not jealous or anything…”

“As well you shouldn’t be, I have vowed to love you and forsake others till death do us part. I hold that vow more sacred than my paladinhood.”

Relina inwardly smiled and was a bit relieved, “Anyway, during Alister’s story, the fight was about her wanting to be with you, but Alister didn’t mention there was a strong bond between you and her. To me, the fight doesn’t make sense. Did it really happen or was that a bardic exaggeration?”

“I’ll have you know…” Alister began but was cut off by Don’s hand covering his mouth.

“No,” Obidaan began, he was steady and even in his tone, “the fight really did happen, pretty much as Alister described.” Before anyone could ask, Obidaan continued, “Alister, like all bards, left out some other facts.”

“You see; Lucinda was madly in love with me. It was almost an insane love. Alister was right about one thing, I didn’t treat her any differently because of her eyes. That’s what drew her to me. I was the first person in her life that accepted her the way she was. She didn’t know how to handle it. That acceptance, that friendship became love in her eyes; something more than what was intended.”

“What Alister didn’t tell you was about the long walks and talks we would often take. Yes, we were on opposite sides, but we were also very good friends. She would speak where she saw us together raising a family, being ‘normal’ as she put it. I would try to tell her that such things wouldn’t be possible based on her attitude. I often told her that as long as she continued to bully people I would oppose her. Still we would talk and yes, more than once, we were intimate.”

Obidaan looked up at the top of the wagon as if seeing images from the past there. His voice was softer, even, and more serious. It became clear that while he could recall the memories with ease; even express them without flinching, it was difficult. It was as if an old wound had been opened that still needed tending.

“Several times she asked me to marry her but I always refused. She played it off as if it didn’t bother her, but deep down I knew it was destroying her. Think about it,” he looked over at Relina, tears were welling up in her eyes but she maintained herself and none ran down her cheeks. It wasn’t clear whether the tears were of pity, sympathy, or sorrow for making Obidaan relive such an obviously painful part of his life. Though she knew they would be together forever, still it gnawed at her what had been said in the story. Obidaan talked very little about it. She figured this was an effort to shield her and comfort her. Now she was beginning to realize why and almost wished she had never asked. Still part of her was happy the truth was finally coming out and Obidaan would no longer be burdened with this. “Here was the one person in her life who accepted her for who she was now rejecting her for who she was. It tore her apart, wrenched her very soul, and as a result, the fight. But I had made my choice and no one was, or is, going to change my mind.” He squeezed Relina’s hand. Taking out a handkerchief, he dabbed her eyes. She put her head on his shoulders and closed her eyes. Without looking, she offered the hanky to the others. Don took it, and then passed it around to the others.

Soon they arrived at the castle. The Captain opened the door and escorted the group into the royal chamber. They all marveled at how lavish the castle was and well taken care of it was. The stone was like new and as they walked through the garden, there were statues and the hedges were designed like animals. They were all overwhelmed.

Escorted to an antechamber, they met the grand vizier, Arturo.

“Greetings,” Arturo, a well build man for a mage, middle aged, with brown eyes and graying hair, said warmly. Upbeat and festive the opposite of what you would expect from one in his position. His positive attitude permeates the castle and those around him. It is obvious to even the most casual observer why the king likes him. “Please, welcome. I hope your trip was enjoyable. If not, let me know and I will correct it.”

“No, it was more than we hoped for,” Obidaan was clearly taking charge at this point. The others weren’t even worried about speaking.

“Excellent!” Arturo said, and shook everyone’s hand. After introductions, he escorted them into the grand ballroom. There a fine table lay before them. “Please, make yourselves comfortable. I have one more guest to attend to and then we can begin with the business of the night.”

As they were making their way to the table, Don nudged Obidaan, “Take the seat immediately to the left of the head. The grand vizier sits to the right, the Queen at the opposite end. The seat to the left is for honored guests, you. We will fill in accordingly. Lucinda will be sitting to the right of the Queen, the other honored spot.” Obidaan took the seat, followed by Relina, Don, Terry and Alister. Servants came out offering water, wine, and bread while they waited and a minstrel troop played in the background.

A few minutes later Arturo was equally jovial as he escorted Lucinda to her seat, to the right of the Queen’s chair.

“If it’s all the same to you,” she moved toward the head of the table, “I’ll sit here,” taking the seat usually reserved for the grand vizier. He did not skip a beat as he told her, “Please, sit wherever you are most comfortable.” He took the seat reserved for her. The remainder of the guests now filled the table.

As Lucinda sat down, she looked over to Alister and winked at him. She also acknowledged the others in the group and each acknowledged her. Obidaan stood up and extended his hand to her. There was a brief moment of unease in the room as Lucinda paused and then finally shook his hand. They both sat simultaneously.

“Surprised your not sitting here Obidaan. Oh, yeah, that’s right,” she mocked, “you believe in observing etiquette. You need to get over that.” She leaned closer to him and motioned him closer, “You know, I hear there are places you can go get help but you wouldn’t know anything about that.” She laughed, leaned back and put her feet on the table.

“Manners are always appreciated, regardless of who uses them and where,” Obidaan retorted and leaning back in his chair. Obidaan clearly did not get her joke.

“Whatever, hey how about some beer over here? Who do I have to kill to get some service?” she laughed at her own joke. A young man quickly ran up to her, placed a fine mug in front of her and poured their best beer into it.

“That’s more like it,” She picked up the glass, looking over at Obidaan, she couldn’t help but needle him a bit more, “Thank you very much,” she said quite politely. However when the servant turned to leave she couldn’t help but to whack him on his butt with her hand. “Nice,” she commented as he left.

Chatter and small talk continued for a few moments and then Arturo signaled to the troop. They began to play the national anthem. Everyone came to their feet; Lucinda was the last one to stand.

The butler announced the royal couple, “His Highness, King Danforth and Her Highness Queen Rumalla, rulers of the Kingdom of Pinnacle.”

In walked the King and Queen, dressed in royal purple, their deep purple eyes matching their outfits. The king looked over to the seat where he expected to see his trusted vizier but saw Lucinda now sitting there. He took only a brief pause but continued down toward the table. Giving each other a peck on the lips, Rumalla moved down to her spot while the king stood next to his chair. Before they sat the king gave a brief welcome and prayer.

“Friends and honored guests, I’d like to thank you all for coming tonight. I would like to take a moment to apologize for the extreme short notice I gave you Obidaan, but you are so busy it is difficult to get hold of you. I discovered you were in town today and decided it would be the best time to get hold of you. To you Lucinda, I apologize for keeping you here these past few days. I trust your stay was pleasant?”

“Hey, it was at your expense, I have no complaints. Nice town you have here. Maybe I’ll retire here,” she started laughing. There was an uneasy tension in the air now. The king smiled politely, while Obidaan merely chuckled to himself. “Seriously though,” she decided to break the tension, “y’all have been quite accommodating and I appreciate the hospitality.”

“Very well then,” the king continued. “Thank you gods over all for this food, this company, and we ask that you watch over us and show us our destinies. Amen. Please, sit.”

As everyone sat, the musical troupe began to play soft dinner music and a fine feast was served. Beef, pork, seafood, fruits, vegetables, breads, and more were all laid out for the taking. People ate very well.

Soon the meal was over and the table was cleared. King Danforth clapped his hands and before him was put a box; it was carried by several servants.

“Obidaan, on this day, near the anniversary of you becoming a paladin, I too would like to give you something. Yes, I heard about the incident at your church, news travels fast around here.” One of the servants removed the lid from the box. “I would like to offer you this fine suit of chain mail armor. It is specially designed to be as light as leather but is stronger and more flexible than plate. In it, you should be able to do wondrous things. My armor smith and vizier worked over several months to forge and enchant this armor, just for you. The deeds you have done for those around here come back to me and I hear about all of your exploits. My bard keeps me up to date on all you do. You have been a blessing to this community and to my kingdom. It is because of you we have stability now and though this kingdom is only 15 years old, the last 3 years have been quite peaceful and that is due to your reputation. Please accept this gift not only for me but on behalf of the people of this land.”

“Thank you, your highness. I stand humbled before you and those around here. On behalf of the people of this community, whom I have sworn to protect, I accept your fine gift. Thank you again.”

“Thank you,” the box is put next to Obidaan’s chair. Danforth remained standing. “Now that the happy news is over, I’m sure you are all wondering why I have called, you all here today.”

“The murderer is in this room and you have the evidence to prove it!” Queen Rumalla blurted out. Everyone got a nice chuckle out of the remark.

“Nice one, my dear,” the king continued, “ As you know, Gunther the Mad recently destroyed the kingdom of Bocktaria, leaving most of the royal family dead, the queen on the run, and the queen mother in exile. Well, the queen mother is here with us tonight, please rise my lady and state your case.”

A very distinguished, though plump, older lady stood up to address everyone. Her hair now gray from age, her orange eyes told the tale of someone who had seen much and been through much. She was dressed regally in a red and yellow gown. A tiara covered her and crown jewels adorned her neck, waist, and wrist and fingers. She took a deep breath and began to speak.

“Allow me to introduce myself; I am Lady Saraphina Vindicate, Queen Mother of the kingdom of Bocktaria. As you know, our kingdom was brutally ravaged by Gunther the Mad over a . . . misunderstanding involving him and his wife.”

“According to Gunther,” Lucinda interjected. Royalty or not, she would let people know where to power is, “you’re kingdom refused him an Inn.”

“That is only partly true. Originally, he was welcomed, and was even offered an audience with the queen. However, he became drunk, obnoxious and unruly. When asked to leave, he became very angry and produced ‘Thumper’ and destroyed the inn. The guard was called out but he obliterated them in a single swoop. He then threatened to ravage the town. Through the initial combat, someone was knocked into his wife. He took it as an insult. Next thing we knew we had a full berserker barbarian on our hands and he was assaulting the castle. Needless to say, he left things in ruin, and people dead and fleeing. I know he is here now, but my business is not with him, there are more pressing matters at hand.”