Meeting the Gnome King II

"Kill them!" Baak commanded.

Alaron froze. Had he heard correctly? The prince moved his hand to his sword as he continued to bow. He heard the ringing of steel as the gnome soldiers drew their weapons. The boy had no idea if he could defeat them all, but he would not go down without a fight.

Cafer, on the other hand, pretended to be amused. "You are quite humorous, my king. You are far too wise to go around killing your faithful subjects like this." The crafty gnome straightened his back and gave the Baak a warm smile.

Alaron picked up on the game. He also lifted his head and beamed a grin on the gnome king. "You had not told me that the King enjoyed jokes, Cafer. I would have come prepared with my own riddles."

Baak raised his hand and the guards sheathed their swords. He gave a booming laugh. "You have a lot of nerve, Cafer. I will give you that. I would have much preferred to have you beg."

Cafer dipped his head again. "I may yet have to do just that, my king. May I introduce Princ