Henrietta screams at Samen. Lyin' like a no-legged dog! Dasko ain't forced me to do NUTHIN! Ain't got no machines! Dasko knew 'em, he did! Now he's dead an' this one's here, standin' all actin' proper—
A menacing guard steps up to Hentietta with his hand on his weapon, and she falls silent.
Prince Charming considers Samen's words. What a vile creature the town council has brought, Inguna. He fluters his fingers. Throw her in the dungeon. Henrietta luges at Samen but the guards grab her by the shoulders and drag her away. Rhutin continues, unflustered. We'll have the truth out of her… and if any of these "heroes" have associated with a ragamuffin… we'll know soon enough. He smiles at Samen.
Valta looks disgusted with Henrietta and is glad to see her go.
Valta: 0
Prince: 1
Inguna: 1
Total:
Valta: 1
Prince: 1
Inguna: 0
Lord Valta stands and begins to drone.
Extenuating, indeed, is the circumstance of all your misadventures, as is your privilege now. It is tenuous, to say the least.
As a Noble Soul who, as it is his just right by Noble Birth, has dispensated upon you these privileges incidental to the pursuit of Mine Very Own Daughter Lumi — who even now languishes whilst we adjudicate this most Woeful Case — I must ask of you one thing: why is it that you have abused the powers conferred upon you by my most solemn trust?
There are several incidents upon which we must cogitate. First: the willful and unlawful usage of Klavakian airspace on two occasions. In the first, one Gate rode upon an uncouth beast through the window of mine Very Own Daughter Lumi's bedchamber and across a fireworks celebration of Mine Very Own Daughter's engagement to the Noble Soul Prince Rhutin. This riding of uncouth beast was done to the effect of causing Untoward and Boorish Theatrics, performed in such a way as that necessitated this Gate to bare himself in a Provocative Nature and cause several townsfolk to Swoon, to a most Scandalous Degree. This did detract greatly from the firework celebration of Mine Very Own Daughter's engagement to the Noble Soul Prince Rhutin, wherefore the crescendo of the fireworks, which were paid for in well-earned gold, were overshadowed by this one's Vulgar Vainglory. In this fashion was the gold levied from the taxpayers squandered, by diminishment of the planned entertainment's efficacy.
In the second abuse of Klavakian airspace: falling through the skies as you have here, endangering several Noble Souls engaged in an Innocent Luncheon, as they do each afternoon in order to gain Sustenance for their Higher Noble Duties, which they must perform the Good of the Common Peoples. It is said that the hurt one single noble equals the hurt of several hundred peasants. Thus, imagine the hurt that four adventurers carelessly falling upon four noble heads would cause, if you will.
Among souls were numbered the Queen Herself, as well as the Noble Soul Prince Rhutin, who is engaged to Mine own Daughter Lumi. Further, several Nobles of Repute were in attendance. Any of these Bright Souls might have been injured and, perforce, been unable to attend to their Important Duties of State, had an Adventurer fallen wantonly upon their Head.
Mine own Deputization of you in the hunt for Mine Very Own Daughter Lumi, who is engaged to the Noble Soul Prince Rhutin, does not indemnify yourselves against the exploitation of Klavakian Airspace. What have you to say?
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Gate listens with mild interest as Valta prattles on. Only at the mention of an uncouth beast do his ears perk up.
...untoward and Boorish theatrics...
Gate thinks back to his ride on the bat, spiraling toward the moon, and then diving among the fireworks.
...bare himself in a provocative nature...
How alive he had felt, straddling that bat, the wind ripping through his open shirt, ruffling his chest hair.
...cause several townsfolk to swoon to a most scandalous degree...
The crowds below held in rapturous awe. They fell like dominos, like wheat beneath the threshing blade, gasping.
...the crescendo of one’s vulgar vainglory...
Gate grins wolffishly at the memory. The triumphant dismount, the roaring applause, the adoring crowds, the many flowers tossed at his feet, the generous autographs he gave. He was a veritable role model, a paragon of masculine ideals.
As Valta finishes, Gate nods and says:
”I take your question.”
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"Milord, tis true my brave friend Gate did soar above Morsain — but carried by a beast whose master called it home. Twas not my comrades wish. If guilt he had, it's pride in staving off a threat to Morsain's pride and joy."
Birne rubs his bruised bottom as he goes on, sending a bit of a coded message to Inguna. His lordship's airs are a pain in my bum, for sure.
"Alas, our latest tumble through your airs was also not our deed. That foul, foul, faerie prince performed some trickery, preventing us from smiting his bewhiskered face. I'm grateful that no noble hair was harmed by that unseelie hare."
Valta gazes coldly at Gate.
It seems I am to be mocked in mine own tribunal.
Hesperance screeches: Button up your shirt — show some respect for the judges! Where's our tea? A page runs up to the pedestal and place a teacup full of steaming hot black tea next to the punching dagger. Hesperance seems mollified for the moment.
Valta addresses Birne: Indeed you should be grateful, for powers conferred upon you by my most solemn trust — so justly given and in good intent — does not indemnify you against the wasting of Celebration Funds, nor from the bodily harm of your betters — even in the case of exogenous actors.
Valta and the Prince seem displeased at hearing from the same person again before everyone else has spoken. However, Inguna enjoyed Birne's performance and perhaps even enjoyed the visual of falling objects crushing noble skulls.
Valta: 0
Prince: 1
Inguna: 1
Valta: 1
Prince: 1
Inguna: 0
Valta: 0
Prince: 0
Inguna: 1
The prince stands.
Consortion with the enemy and spying. These are dire charges, perhaps the worst of all.
My scouts have seen you in the forest with one of the small folk, just outside Lumi's Grandmother's home. Clearly, this small folk is a spy, as they know where Lumi’s family members lives.
As you know, the Small Folk are enemies of the state and have encroached upon our unused territories to the North, claiming it is thir home and refusing to go back to where they came from. They have no love for Klavek.
It chills me to the bone to think the small folk are so close, even in our own forest. And that you have consorted with the enemy in your hunt for Lumi.
He points at Mesta. Further, who is she? A small-folk spy in disguise? I find it passing strange you appear out of the blue, after conversing at length with at least one small folk, and with a new companion in tow. Is this "Mesta" a spy?
I'll have you know: when I command my army in the field, the punishment for consortion with the enemy is strappado; spying, of course, is a capital offense.
He looks at Klaytal. You've been silent thus far. What are you hiding?
"There is nothing that simple woodcutters or miners could do to cause harm within that small grove, if anything it clearly has been the fey and those that partake in their magic that has caused disturbance within this nation."
"Mesta is a former associate of mine, who was wrapped up in foul fey tricks. She is an herbalist, skilled at medicine and tinctures, and her ability to help others requires resources within the forest. It is a dangerous place, and straying too close can be fatal, or worse. As any of us would do, there was an opportunity to rescue and innocent, and we took the opportunity."
"The small folk are different, and they should seek a path that allows for peaceful coexistence with Klavek. Yet, we are not mere patrolmen sent to guard the borders, we had an important task set before us. Find, protect, and uncover the truth about what happened to Lumi. As you have all heard, we stopped at nothing to follow the trail. We went through bone-chilling ice, searing magma, and silent wood. The small folk were able to help us ensure Lumi's safety, which upon our mission from the Prince, took priority over all."
Valta nods at the idea of stopping at nothing to find his daughter (the concept of war seems rather removed from this remote kingdom, anyhow). Inguna looks a bit bored until Klaytal mentions going through " bone-chilling ice, searing magma, and silent wood." She loves a good tale!
Valta stands. We, the tribunal righteously appointed in service to glorious King Tolkovar Klavek XIII, will now recess to discuss amongst ourselves what judgement shall be rendered: whether you be punished dutifully and solemnly, or whether we find merit enough in your character and your actions, to to continue our inquiry with the Queen Herself, as to your wild accusations.
Valta: 0
Prince: 1
Inguna: 1
Valta: 1
Prince: 1
Inguna: 0
Valta: 0
Prince: 0
Inguna: 1
Valta: 1
Prince: 0
Inguna: 1
The tribunal exits the courtyard, to convene in Valta's private chambers.
Valta emerges from his chambers, with Prince Rhutin.
We have convened, and will now render Judgement, as is our Duty.
To the charge of Theft from their Betters: against mine own judgement, the tribunal has not yet found sufficient evidence to convict these adventurers.
To the charge of wanton murder, we likewise voted in the main to acquit you for the nonce, but only for the nonce, as Inguna disbelieves you. Well, Henrietta will tell the Truth, as her Klavakian custodians are quite attentive to Ferreting out the Truth.
To the alleged transgressions of Airspace, you have been found Guilty. Fines will be levied as is appropriate, and should you Endanger your Betters or Waste Funds by way of Flight (or, failed flight, commonly known as "Falling,"" as the case may be), you will be jailed for a year and a day in the dungeon.
To the last charge, of Consorting With Enemies of the State, we understand that your search for Mine Very Own Daughter, Lumi, may lead you to unsavory places. While you might harmonize, to my Dismay, all too easily with the Unsavory Miscreants who thrive in such places — we find also there Just Cause to do so, in the Important search for Mine Very Own Daughter Lumi, who is engaged to Prince Rhutin, son of glorious King Tolkovar Klavek XIII.
In gross total, you suffered five votes against yourselves, with seven votes for yourselves. It has been close, and you should be Most Grateful for our Patience and our Judicious Nature.
Therefore, with Dismay, we have assigned Inguna to the odious task of fetching Her Royal Majesty, Attendant Queen Haijyin. She will answer for herself the Hateful and Disgisting Accusations that you (having proven yourselves if not honest, then somewhat truthful), have tossed down like a Hateful Gauntlet before her Lovely Feet.
Therefore, I ask that you —
At this point, Inguna runs out to the balcony and yells:
She was sequestered in her chambers — and none saw her go!
The Prince shrugs. I'm sure Her Majesty is on some harmless errand for the crown. Or perhaps she is buying a new dress, and did not wish to disturb our tribunal with frivolities. No matter — she will be back soon enough and we'll have the truth. Let us reconvene tonight.
Valta nods, and they turn to leave. Inguna looks on from the balcony in sheer disbelief.
"If we may take our leave, perhaps it’s time to fetch your daughter back to good Morsain. No doubt her father and her will rejoice. The people, at the very least, feel urgency to see their favorite daughter woken from her sleep."
Birne meets Inguna’s eyes, attempting to convey the urgency of keeping the boy safe, as well as his frustration at Valta’s stupidity.
”Wow, uh... we should definitely go back to Lumi as soon as possible!!!”
Rhutin gazes cooly at you. Bringing Lumi back to us, as you have failed to do so many times thus far. It would help your cause when we reconvene. They turn to leave.
Inguna approaches you. Mighty wise are our rulers. If there is anything the merchant council can do to help you before you go, let me know. She gives Gate a menacing look. Just broing her back alive and unhurt.
"You need not bid us do a thing we gladly do, but which you dare not do yourself. My lord. We do it for Morsain. We do it for her grace."
Birne makes no pretense as he turns to Inguna. "Two scrolls to carry us to her and bring her back at once. And please, please guard poor Lumikko. He is the key to Lumi’s waking self." He breathes. "I thank you for your help. These nobles, they..." He leaves his curse unsaid as he goes to collect his spell components.
Done. She takes Birne aside. Promise you will watch Gate. I know what he is.
"He has demonstrated remarkable control, thus far. I have confidence in his ability to continue doing so."
"As Samen says, he’s kept the beast in check, through vanity alone, I’d guess. But never fear, should his will fail, my own shall not."
Gate adjusts himself and then puts his weapons back on his belt.
You arrange for two teleport scrolls with the merchants's guild — with a higher-level one to bring Lumi back.
----
You soon find yourselves just outside the cabin — and it seems like you're too late.
The traps have all been set off: the front portion of the porch is collapsed, exposing a pit below, the rocking chairs have exploded and left scorch marks on the walls, and the door is on fire and, somehow, electricity is arcing from its hinges.
You inspect the corpse of a man who seems to have succumbed to a flaming bear trap that was hidden under a collapsing porch step. He wears a silver ragamuffin medallion around his neck.
Most — but not all — of the small folk are inside, nursing their injuries. It seems like they put up a valiant fight, but it wasn't enough.
Sleepy is the most coherent, and drinking from a bottle of fine (likely stolen) whisky to ease the pain of a broken arm. They said you led them right to us! And they took my friends!
The Queen and… that… that… faceless thing carried Lumi off! We hurt it pretty good, and those ragamuffins of hers too, but we weren't able to stop them… they took her into the forest, along with Doc and Sneezy. He takes a long pull rom the bottle. Save our leader! Save Lumi! I think Haijyin wants to frame us Small Folk for Lumi's kidnapping and death! He yawns. Must… stay… awake…
----
Gate can track the scent of the Small Folk's fresh blood easily, to a clearing not far off. You hear ritual casting ahead.
"Those terrible, blasted villains. I'm going to run ahead and see if I can scout the clearing, join me when you can as I doubt we have much time to lose!"
Birne sings of dreams fulfilled and enemies vanquished. Of quicksilver and rushing river rapids. He rushes forth, singing, singing, singing.
Klaytal moves ahead stealthily after Birne buffs.
You see the Queen standing to the side of a massive and gnarled oak tree. Upon a slab of rock lies the sleeping Lumi. The queen is weaving a dagger in the air and muttering an evil-sounding spell; vines begin to slowly creeping around Lumi's body, encasing her.
To the side are two gagged and bound Small Folk — Doc and sneezy. unconscious. The group is flanked by ragamuffin archers with bows.
The Queen catches Klaytal's shadow moving in the trees. Her spellcasting changes, and the forest vines begin tho writhe around, threatening to entangle Klaytal!
The Queen grins, and calls out to your allies for help.
You hear spellcasting ahead.
Hyajin's voice rings out in the silent winter forest: My Huntsmen! Come quickly — Lumi is under attack!
Round 1
Klaytal: Please make a reflex save to avoid becoming entangled, and another save at the end of your turn if you stay in the area of effect.
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Birne
Samen
Gate
"Garh, blasted vines!
Klaytal tries to stride forth, thrusting his legs through gnarled vines.
Haijyin laughs her beautiful laugh.
'Ware, Ilmeeton. The hunters have betrayed us, and the foul magic of the Small Folk have entrapped Lumi. Her tone doesn't match her words.
The Queen draws a scroll as she moves behind the gnarled oak tree and out of line of sight. A shimmering emerald barrier comes into view around the edges of the tree, capturing Lumi within.
The vines entwining Lumi continue to move, writihing up toward her neck!
The Ragamuffins taunt the elf. Bring out Samen, the the betrayer!
They both move behind the tree, following the Queen out of line of sight.
Round 1
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Birne
Samen
Gate
"You ought to aim your step through space outside that strange blue field."
Birne waits for his companions to move before going forward.
Gate strides to the edge of the entangled forest and then teleports himself to Lumi's side!
Something invisible strikes at Gate after he completes his turn.
Two of the invisible fists connect.
The damage from the claws rips open gate's flesh, and the bleeding will continue.
Round 1
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Birne
Samen
Gate
Once Samen makes his move, Birne changes his tune. He then stops, letting the effects of his dity linger as he disappears.
Samen follows Gate's lead, ending in a similar position.
Round 2
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Gate
Invisible enemy
Birne
Samen
Klaytal double moves forward, scouting for the Queen!
The invisible enemy tries to stun Klaytal as he passes alongside Gate!
You see the queen standing under the tree. She turns inso a viper and moves up the tree trunk!
You see the Queen turn into a viper and slide up the tree trunk.
One of the ragamuffins stealths around the brush and snipes at Gate, who doesn;t see him.
The other one was stealthing in some foliage behind the tree and will full attack Klaytal! Luckily the elf spots the ragamuffin before he can be sneak attacked! Nevertheless, he eats two crossbow hits!
The vines creep closer to Lumi's neck!
Round 2
Gate bleeds!
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Gate
Invisible enemy
Birne
Samen
Birne becomes visible (though still well-hidden) and a gout of faerie dust shoots from his finger tips.
"Remove her from the glowing sphere!"
He disappears again.
Samen feels a gentle poke from within the entanglement.
The unimpeded Gate full withdraws through the difficult terrain!
The invisible creature full attacks Samen from around the rock, as he's the only creature that can be seen next to Lumi!
It hits the flat-footed human twice.
As the jagged fists tear into the brother's skin, he begins to bleed as well.
Round 2
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Gate
Invisible enemy
Birne
Samen
Birne's Glitterdust reveals a crimson-robed figure with clawed hands and fists. Its face, turning to the the direction is heard the spellcasting from, is featureless and covered in bandages — not even its eyes or mouth left uncovered. It looks badly hurt, but still quite dangerous.
The devil seems unaffected by the blinding glitter. It seems to have 5-foot stepped after its full attack on Samen, but was still caught in the glitterdust.
Round 2
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Gate
Devil Monk
Birne
Samen
Klaytal attempts to jump past the creature; outside the lock and entangling vines.
Then he attempts to pierce its ugly hide.
The creature takes a swipe at Klaytal!
But misses the nimble elf!
In turn, the elf doesn't get close to hitting the faceless, monk-like creature.
Round 2
All allies: hasted, good hope. Large area is difficult terrain (entangle), smaller AOE is Dimensional Lock.
Klaytal
Hyajin
Ragamuffins
Vines strangling Lumi
Gate
Devil Monk
Birne
Samen