Submitted: 9 March 1999

Paladin "Champion" and Noble's Actions

by Maarrk Arcelebor

"I'll take a glass of water and any news you have, Baresh," requested Maarrk as he smiled broadly. "It's been a long trip but I'm glad to be heading back to Therenborough now."

Baresh chuckles almost imperceptibly and responds with the latest news.

"What is that? More news about Theren and the two Houses?"

Baresh goes on to explain an earlier conversation with Salamae and Hodryn about a Paladin tournament.

Maarrk furrows his brow in thought. "I can understand having a tournament to find a bodyguard for Galya but I doubt that defines a 'champion.' Do you think perhaps that is not what they really meant?"

Baresh shrugs a response.

"I mean, combat is merely a tool of the Paladin, not our defining quality. I think many have forgotten that," Maarrk says with a sigh. "You know what else disturbs me about your story?"

Baresh raises an eyebrow.

"The whole account of Jarod helping that unfortunate adventurer makes me think: why is that so unusual that it gets such special notice? I mean, one would think the 'nobles' would have an even higher responsibility to help those in need." Maarrk hands back his now-empty glass and straightens his cape. "Well, I won't get any more answers here. No offense, Baresh." Maarrk grins toothily in response to Baresh's sudden chortle.

Throwing a small coin on the bar, Maarrk takes one last look back before heading out and says, "Thanks for the info, Baresh, and for the open ear. I'll be back later, maybe I'll be able to investigate these new developments in Theren later."