DM JeffO Friday November 11th, 2016 12:19:28 PM
Anna thinks back as she examined the shadow from the night before. The shadow was quite far away, but there is the possibility that it was the dragon… or maybe a really large bird.
Pru directs everyone to prepare for a triumphant entry into town. Michael helps prepare everyone and ensures they are dressed like a proper military unit. Nikolai hands over his weapons and climbs into the wagon as the group heads into town. Tink takes a moment to ensure the campsite is cleared and joins the group headed into town.
Thunder rolls, far in the distance, as the group enters town. They enter with their heads held high. As they do, a man notices them, and quickly scurries away. A door slams and the street seems rather empty. An old woman walking along the sidewalk spits in the direction of the agents at the same time a tomato flies from the other direction and splatters on the ground. Further along the main road, three men stand on the side of the road, their arms crossed, staring at the group as they pass. Perception, DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {You can spot a few different smaller people, they look like children, running around in the distances, behind buildings and such, staying hidden, but keeping up with the group}. Perception, DC 24: Highlight to display spoiler: {You think you can hear some of them laughing!}. After a distance, the group will arrive at the courthouse of the small town. There is a small group gathered outside the courthouse. Perception, DC 15: Highlight to display spoiler: {It does not appear that any of the group are armed.}
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=25 ; Friday November 11th, 2016 1:50:19 PM
Michael keeps eyes front as they enter the town. When they reach the courthouse he scans over the crowd looking for trouble. If he finds none he forms up around Nikolai to enter the courthouse. Marching order needs to be like so:
Prudence Anna Nikolai Tinker Trayvin . Michael
If the formatting does not come out right it's Prudence in the first rank, Anna, Nikolai, and Tinker in the second rank, Trayvin and Michael in the third rank. We are making a pentagram around Nikolai. Reason: Pru is the leader. Anna and Tinker are pretty good tanks and can protect the flanks. Trayvin can heal anyone that needs it and Michael can watch for threats from behind.
Once they are in the courthouse Michael closes the door and bars it. Once they get to an office or somewhere definite he will unbar the door. Reason: it causes confusion, therefore disrupting potential attack on us while in a vulnerable position.
Perception (watching for threats) 25
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Friday November 11th, 2016 10:06:00 PM
Pru double-checks to make sure Nikolai isn't carrying anything that could be considered a weapon, then takes her position at the front of the group. When everyone is ready, she takes a deep breath, squares her shoulders, and leads the way up the courthouse steps.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday November 11th, 2016 10:54:49 PM
That's it? They're just going to stand there and stare at us?
"Agents of the Fist. Reporting as ordered with Nikolai. How do you wish to proceed?"
The answer should be interesting, and maybe show a bit of their intentions.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=31 ; d20+7=16 ; Friday November 11th, 2016 11:53:26 PM
Perc +14 = 31
Nikolai takes note of the three. They are certainly different in that they show no emotion, unlike the others. The activity in the background is a little distracting but not enough to keep his attention from the three.
Sense Motive on the three +7 = 16
Nikolai does as he is told, smiling as Pru checks that he isn't carrying anything that could be considered a weapon. He's appreciative of the wall of friends around him.
He whispers, "When you get a chance, Tinker and Michael, scout the alleys around this building and keep a sharp eye out for ways to break in. Just in case."
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+12=14 ; Saturday November 12th, 2016 2:13:25 PM
Tinker isn't one to notice much about people or say much unless needful. He IS very interested in breaking into or out of places; most specifically this court house.
The dwarf moves as slow as possible, looking at locks, windows, and escape routes.
...
Perception. 14
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=9 ; d20+7=9 ; d20+1=21 ; Sunday November 13th, 2016 1:09:04 PM
Anna is distracted at thinking over the flying shadow in the middle of the night and is not the most observant as they enter the town. (Perception : 9)
She had taken the time to polish her mithral full plate before they entered the city so if the day had not been overcast her armor would glint in the sun. She is carrying her new steel grass Ranseur perpendicular to the ground as she feels it is the weapon in her arsenal most similar to what a stereotypical guard would carry.
She shores up Nikolai's flank as suggested and is prepared to enact crowd control procedures if need be but carries her reach weapon in a non-threatening manner.
(Perception(looking for threats): 9) (Sense Motive(looking for threats):21)
DM JeffO Monday November 14th, 2016 9:51:48 AM
The group heads into town and the people of the town watch them arrive. Pru takes the lead and the rest of the group form up around Nikolai. Michael watches carefully around them, but he sees nothing more dangerous than a glimpse of what might be a piece of rotten fruit in a hand near the rear of a small crowd. Nikolai stares at the three by the door. It appears to him that they are just out watching the spectacle. It is likely a town of this size does not often have much in the way of excitement. Tinker looks carefully as the group heads up the steps and into the courthouse. When Trayvin starts to speak to them, they turn their back and walk away, ignoring him and the rest of the group. There are a couple windows at the front of the courthouse. Tinker sees no lock on the door at all. Anna watches as the group enters, but sees nothing else threatening, especially when compared to the dragon they saw just last night.
The boards of the floor creak as the group enters the courthouse. The building appears to have seen better days. Inside, most of the building is taken up by a single, large room. There are a number of rows of benches, apparently for the audience. There is a low wooden wall, then the standard area at the front (far side) of the room with a jury box, a judge’s seat, and a seat for witnesses. There are two doors on the far wall, beyond the court settings. On the right and left sides are simple windows with a view of the alley on both sides of the building. Michael turns to bar the door when the group enters, but sees there really is no way to bar the door by any conventional means. The door is, apparently, always open.
Just to the right as you enter the courtroom is a desk shoved against the rear corner of the room where a tall, thin man sits, reading papers. The desk has just a few pieces of paper scattered around the desk and there is a quill pen there, but no sign of any ink. The man has wispy, thin hair and is clean-shaven. He looks up, eyes raised, as you enter, but he says nothing.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=27 ; Monday November 14th, 2016 11:56:52 AM
Nikolai lets Pru initiate the conversation despite his natural urge to do so. He is still puzzled as to how this all came about considering that the reports from the scouts is that no one they heard from knew much of anything of the alleged murderous event, or victim, for that matter.
He commits his attention to the papers on the desk and (no wanted papers pasted on the walls mentioned) what might be on them. It is difficult being they are upside down for him but he tries anyway.
Perception +14 (nature of the papers on the desk) = 27
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Monday November 14th, 2016 2:22:28 PM
Pru walks up to the desk. "Good morning," she says. "We have brought Nikolai Komonov, as requested." Her tone is cordial but businesslike.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=32 ; Monday November 14th, 2016 9:09:30 PM
Michael takes and at ease position facing away from the group, looking for existential threats coming from another vector.
perception 32.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday November 14th, 2016 9:29:49 PM
Hmmmmm. Interesting. So is the non-chalance an attempt at intimidation, trying to get us riled up, or maybe they really don't care?
Trayvin stands beside Pru, ready to back her up as needed while dealing with the court orderly. He leaves the scoping out of the place to Tinker and Michael.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday November 14th, 2016 9:32:57 PM
Tinker is quiet but thinking this is really really weird...
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=27 ; d20+1=2 ; Monday November 14th, 2016 9:48:27 PM
Anna stands at attention and plants the base of the Ranseur. She tries to cut an imposing figure as she keeps an eye out for any funny business or any warning signs from the crowd.
DM JeffO Tuesday November 15th, 2016 11:59:55 AM
The thin man stands up as Pru explains that the group has brought Nikolai. Nikolai looks over the papers on the desk. One page appears to be a list of names that might be potential jurors. Another appears to be an accounting ledger of some kind. The rest of the group stands guard as the man clears his throat and addresses Pru.
“Ah, thank you for bringing the prisoner to us.” He reaches into a drawer on the right side of the desk and pulls out a piece of paper. He looks over at Nikolai and reads from the paper, “Nikolai, leader of the Agents of the Fist, you are hereby officially charged with the murder of Gerard Parson. These charges are officially presented in my presence in the courtroom of Sandhill Crossing. How do you plead?”
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday November 15th, 2016 8:42:45 PM
Gerard? Didn't we dump him off at a local town jail? Trayvin thinks about the events at Sandhill Crossing. Maybe there was more going on with those bandits than we realized at the time.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday November 15th, 2016 9:31:02 PM
The dwarf stoically keeps quiet and on guard.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday November 15th, 2016 9:50:41 PM
Michael cocks an ear back to listen at what is going on while he guards.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=15 ; Tuesday November 15th, 2016 11:01:03 PM
Anna remains vigilant, waiting to hear what Nikolai will respond with.
(Perception: 15)
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Tuesday November 15th, 2016 11:03:38 PM
"You're welcome," Pru says. "but he isn't our prisoner; he's our companion."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 15th, 2016 11:41:29 PM
Nikolai looks the man square in the eyes as he replies, "Considering that we left Gerard and two of his bandit hirelings in perfect health at the jail in Squatting Crossing, and proceeded to Cove to squelch an undead uprising, I plead Innocent!" he finishes with forceful determination.
"I presume you have the body of Gerard available for my defense attorneys study and properly identify? Would be a shame if the one you call Gerard wasn't actually the bandit Gerard we left at Squatting Crossing."
DM JeffO Wednesday November 16th, 2016 10:36:33 AM
The man ignores Pru and looks at Nikolai’s outburst (Perception: 25 Highlight to display spoiler: {His fingers reach under the counter for just a moment, but then his hand returns empty}. Sense Motive: 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {The man is scared of Nikolai}). When Nikolai is done, the man holds his hands up, trying to calm him. He says, “Easy now, I’ve done nothing to you. I’m just following procedures here. You have entered your plea of innocent, and we can proceed from there.”
He reads some off the paper and then addresses Nikolai again. He continues, “I proclaim that the trial shall begin tomorrow morning. You shall have all the usual time to address the evidence against you in accordance with all standard trial rules. I personally can assure you that the judge is fair and even and will hear all sides of the case. In the meantime, however,” he nervously looks around at the heavily armed group, “there is the matter of bail. I have been directed to hold Nikolai here in the town jail cell until such time as the trial shall begin. We do take charges of murder quite seriously here. The judge has listed,” he checks the paper one more time, “the amount of 5,000 gold to be put up to secure his appearance tomorrow. So this court requests that you, or someone, give us 5,000 gold to ensure that you will show up tomorrow, or you will be remanded to jail.”
At that moment, a door opens at the far end of the courtroom and two rather fat humans step through, dressed in blue, ill-fitting uniforms. They appear to be guards. They walk through the door and stand there, looking at the thin man for instructions.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday November 16th, 2016 8:55:28 PM
Tinker doesn't hide his scowl, staring down the two piles of dough in uniform. If it wasn't for orders...
The dwarf gets a hold of himself. but there are orders, and they say play nice. It will be interesting to get the 'evidence'. "Evidence", he grumbles, "and a list of people bringing testimony too?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Wednesday November 16th, 2016 9:32:06 PM
"I have enough gold to cover the bail, Ma'am" Anna says to Pru, "but it is with our gear, the pack animals and cart. Are we allowed to go there get the gold and come back?" Anna asks
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=30 ; d20+7=24 ; Wednesday November 16th, 2016 9:52:08 PM
Perception +14 DC25= 30 Sense Motive +7 DC22 = 24
Nikolai notices the man's hand movements and senses that his forceful statements were taken the wrong way. "Pardon my abruptness. It was not meant at you directly. You can easily understand the frustration of sparing the life of a bandit who's been preying on the good people of this area and then be accused of murdering him by the people in charge of his own trial for banditry." he replies calmly.
After the two guards enter, he adds. "It is customary that the Defense Team have access to all the same evidence that the prosecution has seen before said trial. That includes any witnesses. My two guards are welcome to be witnesses to our investigations so there is no charge of any intimidation or tampering with the 'evidence'. It is also customary that the accused and his Defense Team know who it is that is bringing the charges against them. Is it an individual or is it the City?"
He grins to ease the tension, "The Mailed Fist documents everything, so we will need you to put on paper, and sign, your agreement to give us access to all we need to build our defense, and the bail amount of 5,000 gold. You can write it up now while Anna fetches the bail money," he points to a blank sheet of paper and his pen and inkwell.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday November 16th, 2016 10:12:14 PM
"Since it appears we will be spending some time here, can you recommend an establishment where we might find lodging?"
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Wednesday November 16th, 2016 10:23:51 PM
"Of course, Anna," Pru says. "And thank you. We will wait here while you go out and get the cash for Nikolai's bail."
To the man behind the desk, she says. "I am Sergeant Prudence Gundle, in temporary command of Agents pending the outcome of Sergeant Komonov's trial. I'm afraid I didn't catch your name?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday November 16th, 2016 11:36:25 PM "Get a receipt for the bail money" Michael speaks back over his shoulder, his eyes never leaving the two guards who walked into the room. and as Lieutenant Komonov says, we are going to need to see all the evidence against him as well as who is bringing charges against him.
That will be the last time I let an enemy combatant live to go to jail. Michael thinks to himself. remembering the blood spurting out of the man as Nikolai held him. how easy it would have been to let him bleed out, then we won't have to put up with this mess.
DM JeffO Thursday November 17th, 2016 9:29:50 AM
Tink is upset by the arrival of the guards, but the rest of the group seems to relax a bit, as does the thin man. Anna says that she will go get the gold for the bail while Nikolai engages the man in conversation. He replies, “Indeed, I am sorry for this business, it is quite difficult. I do hope that you will help us ensure that justice is done in this case. As for evidence and motions, I am sorry, but I am just a humble clerk here in the courtroom. The judge will handle everything else. My job is really just to process the paperwork and ensure that everything is in place for the judge.” He digs another paper out of the drawer and continues, “The charges, well, an individual was one who pointed out the alleged crime, but then the town itself takes over the prosecution since, well, the victim is no longer with us. I assure you that all your questions can be answered by the judge tomorrow morning.” He produces yet another paper from the drawer and says, “Indeed, the bail is part of an agreement we shall sign here. Any of you can sign it, as will I, and another witness.” He gestures for one of the overweight guards to come over to the desk.
Trayvin asks about a place to stay. The man pauses a moment and then says, “We do have two inns in town, one at each end of the town on the main road.” He looks the group over, slowly eyeing the weapons and continues, “But please do be careful. Everyone in the town knows of this trial, it is quite the spectacle, if you know what I mean.”
When Pru introduces herself, he puts the papers in his hands down, brushes off his dusty shirt and extends his hand, saying, “Oh dear, I am sorry. Indeed, it is good to meet you Sergeant Gundle. I am Achtan, the clerk of the court and sometimes assistant deputy sheriff in town. I am pleased to meet you, I only wish it could have been under better circumstances.”
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday November 17th, 2016 6:17:23 PM
Anna goes and grabs 5000 gold pieces from the cart. She makes sure she gets a receipt as she was saving the money for training, enchanting her armor or a magic item to help with her using other magic devices.
After she gets the receipt she asks, "I will get this gold back if and when we prove Nikolai had nothing to do with Gerard's death." She confirms.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday November 17th, 2016 8:43:02 PM
Tinker tries to keep his demeanor under control, but that has never been his strong suit. He snorts. He has never bared weapon against an unarmed person in his life ; he isn't about to start now.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday November 17th, 2016 8:47:50 PM
Trayvin notices the clerk and guards eyeing up the Agents weapons more than once, and tries to reassure them. "Don't worry, we have no intention of causing any trouble here. We have shown up voluntarily, hopefully that shows that we intend to conduct ourselves with honor."
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday November 17th, 2016 9:51:58 PM
Michael does not draw his weapons, but this is no different that a storm or an ogre attack. it's a threat. funny....someone brought these charges up, knowing that the state would pursue them afterward. this gives him an idea.
is it against the law to bring false charges against someone? If so, and we can prove Nikolai's innocence, I would like to bring charges agasint this individual for bearing false witness.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday November 17th, 2016 10:37:19 PM
Nikolai is grateful that Anna foots the entire amount of the bail and says so quietly to her when she has the receipt in her hand.
He turns his attention back to the clerk. "Where can we find this judge? Since the prosecution has had more than ample time to study the evidence, it would be the least he can to is let up see the evidence before the trial also. I presume said Gerard has already been buried? It is vital that we see the body to ascertain what weapon was used to kill him. Relying on evidence we did not collect ourselves is not wise."
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} d20+13=29 ; Friday November 18th, 2016 12:51:52 AM
"It is very nice to meet you, Achtan." Pru says. "What time do we need to be in court tomorrow? Will were able to look at the evidence before then, or do we have to wait until we appear before the judge? We're not sure how all this works, you see, but we want to do everything legally and properly. I'm sure we'd all appreciate your help."
[Diplomacy 29]
DM JeffO Friday November 18th, 2016 9:22:19 AM
The clerk responds to everyone in turn:
To Anna he says, “Oh no, this bail money has nothing to do with whether he is innocent or guilty, this is just to ensure he shows up in the courtroom tomorrow. After that it will be up to the judge if he should be held during the trial or if other bail will be required.” As he signs the paper and has the guard make his mark on it, he continues, “As soon as you arrive tomorrow, see me at this very table and I shall return this gold to you.”
To Trayvin he says, “I am very glad to hear that. I can only hope the people of the town will share your ideals. But you know, there are always some who want their own justice…”
When Michael mentions false charges, he says, “Well, that is a little premature at this point. But certainly, should that time come, you can tell me of the charges you wish to bring and I will take them to the judge for his decision.”
When Nikolai speaks, he answers a little slower, saying, “Sir, you are indeed the person who has been charged in this crime, of course. The judge will be here tomorrow morning and you can ask him all the questions that you like. He will explain the rules of evidence and you can make all requests for information or really, anything else at that time. As a clerk, I simply do not know all the intricacies of the rules of the judge’s courtroom. That is why we have the judges, you know.”
When Pru speaks, Achtan smiles and says, “Why thank you. I am here to help you and guide you through this process, I know it can be difficult for those close to the defendants.” He tries to hide a glance of contempt towards Nikolai, but fails. He puts on a good face for Pru and continues, “Tomorrow at half-morning the judge will be here. I can answer any questions about the process, but only the judge can answer the specifics. For some, the first appearance leads directly to a trial and the entire thing is over in a few minutes. Others ask a lot of questions and the court works with the judge to ensure all the questions are answered before the judge renders his judgement. I assure you, the judge will be fair and allow you all the time you need.” He pauses, then continues, “Oh, but I will tell you – do not attempt to needlessly delay things with the judge, that only makes him angry. He is known to give delays for many reasons, but he is a sharp fellow, so don’t try any deception with him.”
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday November 18th, 2016 6:08:25 PM
"Be honest". Tinker thinks this goes without being said, but is not the naive recruit he used to be.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday November 18th, 2016 9:53:11 PM Fair enough Michael says, He then forms up around Nikolai and escorts him to the motel.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday November 18th, 2016 10:32:36 PM
"Come on, there is nothing more to be done here today. Let's get some food and arrange where to stay."
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Saturday November 19th, 2016 2:08:31 PM
Pru smiles at Achtan. "I think we'll go arrange for accommodations now," she says. "Will you be here the rest of the day? In case we have questions?"
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Sunday November 20th, 2016 7:57:30 AM
"Thank you for the receipt," Anna says, "I will be back to collect the gold tomorrow when we show up to see the judge. Tell me Mr. Achtan, is there any alternative means of settling disputes in these parts? Nikolai is innocent as we traveled together and Gerard was alive the last we saw him, but this whole endeavor seems odd, so if something goes wrong is there a way to opt for something like a trial by combat or an appeals process? Could this be transferred to the Fist for a military tribunal instead? I honestly do not know the customs in these parts. I am however an emissary of King Eberyon and a servant of Queen Ma'ab. I know this is not the same circumstances but a jury of adventurers did vote to allow Lord Eberyon to atone..."
Anna goes into the story of Eberyon's trial
(OOC: Not sure if Anna has the 3 hours needed to give Actan plus her friends and her a +2 divine bonus on next save per Spread the Word)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Sunday November 20th, 2016 4:55:30 PM
The clerk obviously is not taking to listening to a 'prisoner' and 'accused murderer', so he just notes the man's reactions and decides to leave it at that.
Anna's concern for a fair trial mirrors Nikolai's. They won't have any idea what the 'evidence' is until the trial starts, thus no way to prepare a proper defense. If the judge is as quick as the clerk says, there won't be any time to fetch witnesses from Cove or Squatting in time either. But there are a few things they can still do.
The clerk didn't answer him in respect to Gerard's body. Is the guy just so totally ignorant of anything involving the case? Nikolai just hopes they can find out where the bandit was buried from someone else and dig him up, permission or not.
Nikolai is ready to leave, nothing much else to gain here, he decides.
DM JeffO Monday November 21st, 2016 9:39:31 AM
As the group prepares to leave, Pru asks if he will be there all day. He replies, “I have no other plans at the moment, so I expect I shall be here.”
Anna then starts telling the story of Eberyon’s trial (you can take the 3 hours if you like…)
The group heads out into town and the town looks as normal as the average small town can look. People are going about their business and a small wagon slowly moves past. The main street is mostly straight and flat, and there are two larger buildings at the ends of the town to the right and the left, apparently the inns that Achtan mentioned. The group can head for one of them, back out into the area around town, or something else entirely. Looking up, you can see the clouds continue to gather to the west, building more grey and dark.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=25 ; Monday November 21st, 2016 2:38:55 PM
Michael suggests they stay at the Inn he begged at, all the while listening intently to Anna's tale. His eyes never stop roving the area looking for threats though. Perception 25
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} d20+4=14 ; d20+13=31 ; Monday November 21st, 2016 5:03:01 PM
"I'll catch up with you," Pru tells her companions.
She attempts to talk to a few people on the street about the building clouds. She reaches back to draw on her childhood memories of the farm, talking about the clouds in the context of weather and crops. She tries to find out whether such building clouds are usual for this time of year, or whether it's an anomaly.
[Profession: Farmer 14; Diplomacy 31]
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=18 ; Monday November 21st, 2016 8:21:10 PM
With Pru saying she will catch up, Tinker shrugs and follows Michael's direction. "We ain't getting more information until tomorrow, so may as well get out of the rain", he says. The wagon and Nikolai is moved to the inn and Tinker stands next to Nikko. Outwardly he is guarding the ranger-monk, but he's really guarding him from any knife in the dark...
Perception. 18
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=16 ; d20+9=26 ; Monday November 21st, 2016 9:08:56 PM
"...and that is why the acorn is the symbol of Eberyon and he has rededicated himself to doing good in this Wold." Anna finishes her story.
"Well, Mr Athan. It looks like we must be off. Good day to you sir. I will be here tomorrow to collect the gold."
Anna moves to the inn with the rest of her companions keeping her eyes out for any threats. After they secure the cart she switches her guisarme for her guitar.
She plays a little on her guitar in the common room. (Perform[String] : 26)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+1=7 ; d20+5=19 ; Monday November 21st, 2016 9:40:31 PM
Nikolai listens to Anna's story with interest, mainly because there was nothing else do to for the moment, but also out of respect for her.
He follows Tinker and accepts his role of being 'guarded' but laughs inwardly as the dwarf knows well that in his case, being unarmed is a boon.
"Tinker, once we get the horses stabled and feed, lets go looking for Gerard's grave. it may not be here but since the charge were filed here, it's save to assume he wasn't murdered in Squatting Crossing. I wonder if there ever was a trial there. Besides, I'm bored and hate just sitting around. Rain or no rain, at least we find out if he is buried here or not."
If Tinker agrees, Nikolai will look for the local temple or temples first. From there he will ask if they know of where the murdered victim 'Gerard' was buried. If they don't know, he'll ask if they know who took care of the burial and go looking for that person.
Diplomacy +1 = 7 He'll add 10gp to their Benevolence box to boost his chances.
As they go about this, he sniffs the air and studies the oncoming storm. Knowledge (Nature - identify unnatural weather phenomenon) + 5 = 19
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday November 21st, 2016 9:59:53 PM
Trayvin looks around a bit on the way to the tavern and takes note of which deities have temples in the town.
DM JeffO Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 10:49:21 AM
Anna spends a good deal of time telling the story of Eberyon’s Trial. Achtan listens carefully and seems quite interested throughout the story.
Michael keeps watch as the group heads to the inn. He spots a few people glaring at them, but he does not see anything overly threatening. Tink moves with him and keeps Nikolai “under guard.” Nikolai discusses ideas about checking out gravesites. As they head for the inn, he can sense that the rain is not far off now. It does not seem abnormal, but he knows that magical means could have simply been used to encourage natural storms. This storm doesn’t look magical or unnatural in any way, though.
Pru watches the clouds and asks about the weather. She finds a man carrying a large sack of grain who seems to be happy to set it down for a moment and talk. He says, “Ah, you know, we can always use the rain. Never seem to get enough round these parts. Except in the Spring, of course.” He does not seem disturbed or surprised about the gathering clouds. He picks his sack back up and heads towards the coming storm, walking quickly.
Looking over the temples in town, Trayvin notices that the largest temple is to Pantheon, the god of justice. That temple is well-built and clearly maintained. That temple is directly next to the courthouse. A block away is a smaller, but clean temple to Alemi. This one also appears well-kept and has clerics wandering the grounds. Near the center of town is a small seating area that appears to be dedicated to Ffloy and another for Flower.
When the group arrives at the inn, a stable boy comes out to see about the wagon and the horses. He stops dead in his tracks when he sees Nikolai. He looks around, unsure what he is supposed to do. He does not offer to take the horse or wagon, but he doesn’t head back into the stable attached to the inn, either.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+9=23 ; d20+7=9 ; Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 8:47:24 PM
Anna continues to play her guitar, trying to blend into the scenery. (Perform[string]:23)
She tries to listen to the conversations going on in the common room to hear if any of the people in the inn sound like the voice of the accuser she had heard earlier. (Perception: 9)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+10=23 ; d20+14=32 Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 9:14:53 PM
Michael looks at the boy and clears his throat, Young man, I am going to need you to take charge of this wagon and these mounts, I need them fed, watered and rubbed down. he flips the boy a gold coin. spoil the mule a bit, she's a good mount. And watch out for them for us will you? we will be staying at the Inn.
bluff 23.
he figures this should snap the boy out of his daze and possibly get word around town and into the ears of interested parties, both good and bad.
he cases the entrance to Inn, making sure to look out for trouble.
perception 32.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 9:40:20 PM
Tinker is interested. He lets Michael take the lead, and gets Nikolai inside. "I think it better that you not walk around, Nikko. These people seem to recognize you and not in a good way. " We get you set in the room and then some of us can move about. I think I'll stay with you since most of this is gathering information. "
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 10:00:47 PM
"Agreed. In fact, it might be a bad idea for any of us to wander around. We should be cautious in what we do. If we arouse suspicion of any kind that could impact the trial negatively."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 22nd, 2016 11:05:26 PM
Nikolai ascertains that the rain is not some bad omen or evil portent, at least he hopes it isn't. That dragon was awful close to the town and it occurs to him that it is just a miracle that the dragon hasn't taken to snatching a cow her and there for a meal. Should they warn the town about the dragon? At this point, probably not.
The young boy stares at Nikolai. Normally the jovial monk would be sociable but the kid looked too scared for that and he didn't want to spook him away. Michael steps in and breaks the ice. Nikolai simply smiles and starts to unload their gear from the wagon.
Maybe when this nightmare is over he can talk to the boy about adventuring and the real Mailed Fist.
Prudence Gundle [AC 20; HP 62/62} Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 12:35:43 AM
"Well, it looks to be a regular gully-washer," Pru says with a little laugh. "I'd better get myself indoors before it hits. It was nice talking to you."
She strolls to the inn, but she doesn't rush. A pretty girl with no (visible) weapons can do a lot to make people think a bit more kindly of the Fist. At least, she hopes so.
DM JeffO Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 8:34:29 AM
Outside the inn, Michael gets the attention of the boy with a piece of gold. The boy’s eyes grow wide as he clutches the gold coin tightly and nods his head repeatedly at the instructions of Michael. He very consciously does not look back at Nikolai, almost acting if he cannot see him any more.
Inside, the inn there are only a few people since it is mid-morning. There is a stereotypical bartender standing behind the bar, wearing an apron and cleaning a glass. Behind him is a door, apparently to the kitchen. There are a number of stools at the bar and about a dozen tables scattered around the room. The tables and chairs do not match: there are small round tables and larger rectangular tables. It almost looks like a conglomeration of all the different kinds of chairs and tables that can be found for hundreds of miles around – or that everyone brings their own chair to the inn.
There is a large fireplace on the left side of the room, slightly smoldering at the moment, but there is a pile of wood next to it, ready to be placed in the fire. Seated just to the side of the fire is what appears to be an old farmer, nursing a mug of something. He looks tired, old, and quite unkempt. He does not look up when you enter the room. There are two other couples of people seated in different places in the room. Four sets of eyes look up when the door opens, but no one says a word. When Anna starts playing, the bartender looks over, eyebrows raised, but he does not say anything to her.
Knowledge, Local (to the entire peninsula), DC 18: Highlight to display spoiler: {From the Woldopedia: Many of the old ways of the peninsula continue, especially in the small towns. In many cases, when someone is accused of murder, the accused is considered guilty just in case. The criminal suspect is “stuck” with his loot since his reputation and breaking of social taboos prevents anyone from doing business with him or even communicating with him.
Anyone associating with a person or group that has been labeled outcast by lawful or social means becomes associated with the outcast person and is outcast as well. The effect of this is that word travels ahead of the person and all talk stops in the person’s presence. No one will let him purchase food or needed supplies. This “treatment”, in principle, serves to break the spirit of the guilty and increase the honor of the innocent. The only action the accused can take to clear his name is to endure the ostracizing for 10 years or to admit guild and turn oneself over to the local temple for penance.
Another option is to leave the country which to the Fargunians is an admission of guilt. Those who choose this option have their citizenship revoked if they refuse to reappear within 30 days.}
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+8=20 ; Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 10:23:13 AM
Tinker, fairly versed in the ways of local customs, finally realizes what is the strange response to most people. He explains to the others about the customs of being accused. (Know Local 20;; tells the team about the DM spoiler)
"And that's not only why the locals are acting weird, but also important that Nikolai or any of us don't over-react. Stoically enduring the ostrication will only increase our honor and that of the Fist. And acting like the jailer and not companion of Nikolai will distance ourselves from his crime to enable us to find out what's going on. If we look like we're pals with Nikolai, they won't serve or even acknowledge we exist."
He turns to Nikolai and puts a hand on the monks shoulder. "Need a room to guard the prisoner. Courthouse said we could get support here."
....
Know Local. 20
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 9:25:40 PM
Michael can play act, He visualizes Nikolai as being a bad guy and acts accordingly. he does not look at Nikolia nor speak to him.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 9:39:13 PM
Guard duty. Felt kinda weird to be guarding one of their own. But there's not much choice now but to follow it through. Trayvin hopes Commander Palance knew what she was doing when she sent them here.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday November 23rd, 2016 10:38:59 PM
True to her word, Pru rejoins her Fist-mates at the inn. She listens quietly to Tinker's explanation, then sighs a little. "I guess we're lucky they're letting us appear before a judge at all," she says.
She helps the others get Nikolai squared away. Once that's done, she says, "Unless people have other ideas for today, I'm going to go back and talk to that clerk some more. I think the more information we have, the better off we'll be."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Thursday November 24th, 2016 3:36:27 AM
When Anna finishes playing she straps her guitar to her back, sidles up to the bar and orders a small beer. She asks the bar keep if he knows anything about Gerard's murder. Considering bar keeps hear all kinds of gossip maybe she'll learn something new, she hopes.
After she talks to the bar keep and pays for her drink she returns to her friends and says to Tinker, "Guilty until proven Innocent? Where is the justice in that? They have a temple of Pantheon here but how is assuming guilt fair? How many innocent people get slandered in this system? How many unscrupulous people take advantage of this system to destroy their rivals? Do you think the judge would allow me to cast zone of truth from a scroll and question Nikolai inside of it? Then again he is strong willed so he could probably resist it, so maybe it is a bad idea?"
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday November 24th, 2016 8:23:13 AM
Tinker shrugs and responds to Anna. "Who am I to debate justice? I'm an orphaned dwarf raised by gnomes and joined the Fist. In Faragunia, if it turns out someone is falsely accused, that is a crime and then THEY get the ostracizing treatment until they submit for justice."
He considers a while to choose his words. "They are much about free will and peaceful solutions here. Maybe that's why their leaders ennobled the Fist Commander and we are on retainer to be part of their army. They need a ready force for those times when the peaceful solution won't work."
He thinks more. "Huh, it sorta makes sense that free will is so important when they neighbor Alisidur which was until recently the complete opposite."
DM JeffO Thursday November 24th, 2016 1:37:45 PM
Tinker explains to the others the likely situation and the group agrees to treat Nikolai as a prisoner instead of a friend.
Inside the inn, Anna heads over to the bartender and asks about Gerard. The barkeep raises his eyes and replied, “Well, I’m guessing you know a bit more than I, what with the company you’re keeping there,” he nods over towards Nikolai. He continues, “Word round here is that that fellow killed some other fellow in cold blood. Neither one is much from around these parts, so it ain’t like there’s family around for either side, but I’ve heard that someone showed up to the magistrate, made the accusation and demanded justice. Hadn’t heard who exactly demanded it, but that don’t much matter when it comes to justice, now does it? Sure enough someone from town will be at the trial tomorrow and will be lettin’ everyone else know how it goes – not much excitement around these parts these days.”
Anna and Tinker discuss a few options of what to do next while the rest of the group guards Nikolai in the inn. He gets a couple dirty glances from the pair by the fireplace, but the others in the inn appears to not even see him at all.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+2=5 ; Thursday November 24th, 2016 4:41:25 PM
OOC: started a post yesterday, got pulled away, fell asleep, rest is history... :}
Knowledge Local: +2 DC18 = 5
Nikolai had been in the Mailed Fist from birth and knew most things Mailed Fist, but local traditions from places relatively distant from the Citadel was a 'lean-as-you-go' thing. So what Tinker explained made sense with respect to how the people were reacting, but as Anna said, it leaves a lot open for unscrupulous people to take advantage of and since the Burden of Proof lies upon the Accused, a determined clever enemy can really do a lot of damage.
"Dead men tell no tales," Nikolai mutters under his breath just for those next to him to hear. They'll know what he means.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Thursday November 24th, 2016 9:31:26 PM
the more Michale thinks of this place, the more he wishes he were somewhere else. suppression of free will from one side of destruction at the hands of people's slander on the other. there has to be a better way, and Michael's thoughts turn to his dream of a country of honor, bravery, justice and egalitarian meritocracy.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday November 24th, 2016 9:51:57 PM
Tinker goes back to his more normal silent stoicism. He keeps guard of Nikolai until they get a room and then takes the 'prisoner' up to the room to guard, only asking for a couple of plates to be sent up for the dwarf and the 'prisoner'.
Prudence Gundle d20+13=33 ; Thursday November 24th, 2016 10:32:56 PM
Since her Fist-mates are (relatively) settled, Pru goes back to the courthouse to talk with the clerk again.
"Hello again, Master Achtan," she says. "I'm back. I have more questions, if you will indulge me for a moment." She gives him a winning smile. [Diplomacy 33]
"I'm curious about how this charge was brought. Who made the accusation? And who determined that this Gerard was, in fact, dead? May we speak with the accuser? Or any of the investigators? Today, I mean? Or, is there any evidence we would be allowed to look at? Anything at all we could do today?"
She allows him to answer those questions before continuing. "Also, I know some of my companions were concerned about how we could prove Nikolai's innocence. If we learn of some evidence, or a witness, in another town, will we be allowed enough time to go and investigate? Or will the court send an investigator? Or is it all up to the judge?"
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday November 24th, 2016 11:13:15 PM
"I guess the Innkeeper is treating us fairly well, considering how they view the guilty around here. We will have to make a good impression on the judge and the townsfolk if we are going to have a chance to come out of this allright."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Friday November 25th, 2016 12:23:33 AM
Anna says to Nikolai, "Actually the dead can tell tales. They make a spell for that, but I do not have the scroll on hand and it is beyond what I can produce from my bag of tricks. However, Trayvin should be able to cast it if he devotes a 3rd level spell to it. If we can find Gerard's body and exhume it and if it has a mouth it should be able to answer our questions. The only problem is what happens if Gerard believes that Nikolai did kill him. As a morphling I can make a pretty convincing Nikolai. There could be others out there who can as well. I mean I guess it would depend on the resources the person framing Nikolai had at their disposal."
DM JeffO Friday November 25th, 2016 9:58:19 AM
Inside the inn, the group works to get a room. The bartender pauses and stares at Nikolai for a moment before he responds to the request. “A room? You know, I am sure the guard will be happy to hold the prisoner in the jail until the trial, then you and I would not have to worry about anyone else getting murdered in town. I do not want any trouble in my inn.” He sighs and then continues as he eyes the weapons in the group, “But I see that you wish a room, so a room you shall have. I have a single room on the second floor with eight bunks. The cost is one silver per night.” When anyone moves for the stairs, he calls out, “I really do not want any trouble here.” He looks down and mumbles, “please…”
Pru heads back to the courthouse to ask questions. Achtan smiles when she arrives and appears cooperative. He looks around conspiratorially and replies, “You know, I am not supposed to say anything, but I hear the accuser is from out of town and no one really knows the person. They just appeared one day and demanded justice. The judge talked to him and then the papers were drawn up to bring charges. That is really all I know so far. I do know that all will be revealed at the trial tomorrow. The judge has leeway to rule however he likes. If he wants to delay the trial so you can bring in evidence, he has the ability to delay it as long as he likes. If he does not want to hear the evidence, he can refuse to delay it.” He shakes his head and says, “I really do not know of anything you can do related to this trial today. I can only assure you that this judge takes his position seriously and he will be as fair as possible to everyone.”
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday November 25th, 2016 11:48:58 AM
Tinker doesn't have much ability to be diplomatic, but tries to put the innkeeper at ease. "No trouble. Achtan at the courthouse said it would be available. One room is perfect to take care of the prisoner "
The dwarf escorts Nikolai upstairs and to the directed room.
Prudence Gundle Friday November 25th, 2016 7:52:11 PM
"Well, thank you very much for your help, Master Acthan," Pru says. "If the judge is as conscientious as you are, then I'm sure we'll be in good hands." She makes her polite farewells and returns to the inn.
She finds the group in their room. "I really don't think there's anything left to be done until after we speak with the judge," she says. "He seems to be the one who decides everything. I hope he will be fair with us, but if he isn't, we need a contingency plan. Probably several."
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 d20+7=13 ; Saturday November 26th, 2016 5:17:15 AM
"Well maybe we have Trayvin prepare speak with dead and zone of truth in case Gerard's body is exhume-able or the judge allows for Nikolai himself to be questioned inside of a zone of truth. Shouldn't questioning Gerard's corpse or Nikolai in a zone of truth be enough to prove Nikolai's innocence? Although if the judge does say we can get witnesses maybe I should be prepared to travel the 40 miles to get them? Also as a contingency if someone does a distraction maybe Nikolai and I could swap places, though if I am morphing into him the disguise will only last for five minutes so you guys will have to move out. When my ability wears off my plan would be to turn into an animal escape and meet up with you guys later." Anna suggests, her head spinning with ideas.
"I mean we don't have to plan to do all these things, but we did say we should be prepared." Anna says.
When it is time to turn in Anna offers to take the last watch again. She figures they need to post sentries just in case someone plans some funny business overnight. (Perception:13)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+10=29 ; d20+14=31 ; d20+20=36 ; Saturday November 26th, 2016 7:04:30 AM
Since the room has 8 beds and there are only 6 people staying there, Michael takes the pillows and blankets off the two unused beds and creates a pallet beneath the bed he is to sleep in. He puts some cup hooks in the walls at strategic locations around the room, he then strings twine around the room across the shutters and across the door. he will then hook the ends fo the twine to his toe when he goes to sleep so that if anything moves the twine it will awaken him. he puts a loop in the twine and hangs a dagger in it, this way if an enterprising assassin should get clever and cut the twine the dagger will fall, pull the twine and awaken him. He does all this after everyone is in the room. He then makes his bed up to look occupied and gets in his pallet beneath the bed, wraps himself in a blanket and sleeps upon a pillow. He draws his weapons and places them in his hands. this way he wont' have to draw them when silence is needed.
Diable device 29 (to set up the alarm.) perception 31 (to wake up if the alarm triggers. ) stealth 36 (to silently sneak out from under the bed should the alarm trigger. )
prepared actions should alarm trigger quaff potion of dark vision sneak out from under the bed. flank assassin, his scream will be the alarm to wake the rest of the party up.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=24 ; Sunday November 27th, 2016 7:10:38 PM
Nikolai has to grin a bit as Anna explains that dead men can tell tales. "Sorry Anna, it's not what I meant," he whispers. "On the other hand, the bodies can tell tales. We must find that body. Don't want to talk to it, just look for how 'it' was killed."
When the inn keeper begs them to not cause any trouble, Nikolai has a bad feeling. Trouble always followed them, apparently even where they don't even go.
"Fist, you know we stick together, that is, I've never left your sight but to go potty. So this fake Nikolai that killed Gerard was acting alone? If they take your word that I've always been in your sight, that means that you are witnesses or even accomplices to the murder. But only I am charged and none of you are even mentioned, as accomplices to murder means guilty as same. So we got that going for us, it it can be made to work in our favor."
When Pru returns, it seems clear that their won't be a body to study. "So he was killed elsewhere. Doubt the accusers will divulge his burial spot. We'll think of another angle to this. The accusers will need to describe what they saw, maybe we can trick them into giving their lie away that way."
Anna is swirling with ideas, hopefully none necessary. "Anna, all good ideas, but we must not use trickery of any sort. It would only hurt our case. Let me keep my hat, that may be good enough if things go sour."
In the room, Nikolai picks his bed near the middle of the lot. I appreciate all this guarding me, I've never felt safer. HA! Just make sure if you need to answer the call of nature, make sure you Michael know first." he chuckles.
Perception for the night: +14 = 24
OOC: BTW, Nikolai consider his belt as part of his uniform so that one item remains on him.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Sunday November 27th, 2016 9:59:28 PM
Michael, replies to Nikolai why didn't this guy bring charges against us in squatters crossing? where we left Gaston? this has nothing to do with you standing trial for murder, this is bait to get us into a position for an attack
DM JeffO Monday November 28th, 2016 9:47:59 AM
The group settles in and hears and sees the large thunderstorm pass by during the day. The rain is heavy, but no one senses anything evil, just a large, wet storm. As night falls, many are starting to get antsy sitting around with nothing to do. Finally Michael sets up a series of twine and traps, just in case.
As the night passes, Michael finds himself suddenly awake. He looks at the twine, but it looks normal. He senses nothing moving in the room. There does appear to be more light than normal outside the window, but from his seat on the floor, he is not really sure. No one else is awake as Michael surveys the room in the darkness. The light from outside the window almost looks like someone is shining a light outside their window on the second floor somehow.
Prudence Gundle Monday November 28th, 2016 6:02:26 PM
As the group discusses strategy, Pru clarifies what she meant. "We really only need contingencies for if the judge is unreasonable or unfair," she says. "If he allows a Zone of Truth, we can take the time to figure out who can cast it and what they need. There are temples in town, so maybe they have somebody who can cast it, and maybe they'd prefer that. Or, if we have to go find a witness or some evidence, we can decide at the time who is going and who is staying and how we're going to keep in touch. That's all stuff we can work out later.
"What we need to work out now is what happens if the judge is unfair. What happens if after five minutes," Pru takes a shaky breath, "he decides that N-Nikolai is guilty and should be...should...should be executed immediately." Another shaky breath. "What do we do then? Or, what if he decides that he doesn't have time to try the case now, and Nikolai has to sit in jail until he has time? Or, what if he decides we're all guilty and locks us all up? That's what we should be planning for now."
But, really, there's only so much advance planning to be done with so little information, and eventually Pru says her prayers and tries to get some sleep. She is sound asleep when Michael sees the mysterious light.
AC 24 T 18 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday November 28th, 2016 8:09:19 PM
"Or if the accuser turns out to be Gerard. ". Mumbles Tinker, but his thoughts are more for sleep than strategy.
He puts Nikolai on a bed away from any window or door and puts the fake handcuffs around a bedpost for Nikolai's hands
In the middle of the night, Tinker is sawing logs!
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Monday November 28th, 2016 9:03:10 PM
Anna says, "If the judge is unreasonable why don't I turn into a Large Arsinoitherium and physically clear a path out of the courthouse. I mean it seems like the judge most likely will be reasonable but we do need some escape plan if it comes to it. I guess we can sort it out in the morning..."
The morphling yawns and then turns in herself.
In the middle of the night she finds herself dreaming of a fete held by her lady Ma'ab and her consort King Eberyon.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday November 28th, 2016 10:05:30 PM
There were some suggestions for various spells that may come in useful. Trayvin meditates on the choices a bit before going to sleep.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=34 ; d20+20=37 ; Monday November 28th, 2016 11:04:07 PM
Michael quietly slips out from under the bed and shakes Tinker and Anna awake on his way too the window. he uses his mirror to peek out at what is going on outside.
stealth 34 perception. 37
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 29th, 2016 12:55:49 AM "All contingency plans are appreciated," Nikolai says with a yawn. He takes the bed Tinker appoints him. He stays awake for a while as if on guard duty but then slips into a light elven sleep.
DM JeffO Tuesday November 29th, 2016 9:12:56 AM
Looking just through his mirror, it is difficult to make sense of what he sees. It seems as if there is light coming from a place... or even more than one place in the air, instead of on the ground. As he moves the mirror about, the light or lights seems to be moving around as well. The lights appear near windows of the inn as best as he can see, and are moving from one place to another...
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Tuesday November 29th, 2016 9:03:47 PM
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Prudence Gundle Tuesday November 29th, 2016 10:44:02 PM
Pru dreams she is back in the swamp, surrounded by the will-o-wisps. The wisps keep moving and darting about, now difficult to see, now shining their lights right in her eyes. She tries to explain to them that Anna and Tinker are waiting for their cake, but she doesn't speak wisp, and anyway the cake seems to have turned into a large dog. Not that it matters, the wisps just keep shining their lights. It's as if they're laughing at her.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 vs AOO: 26/22/17- HP 52/52-- CMD 16 Tuesday November 29th, 2016 11:02:00 PM
Anna continues her dream about the ball in the court of the fey.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday November 29th, 2016 11:27:19 PM
Nikolai has an odd dream. He's in a courtroom full of people and he sits in the accused chair. The judge calls forth the witness and Gerard appears out of the crowd. He looks much like the zombie corpses he's fought many times. He shambles forth mumbling something about his chain, 'Give me back my chain!'. As soon as the zombie-gerard sits, another appears, then another, and another, until the whole front is full of zombie-gerards all mumbling 'Give me back my chain!'.
Can someone wake him from this nightmare?
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday November 30th, 2016 7:04:09 AM
Michael looks around, apparently his attempt to wake Tinker and Anna up was unsuccessful he resolves to wake everone up now.
Since on one is in the room he shakes everyone till they awaken. Paying special attention to Nikolai who looks to be having a nightmare.
DM JeffO Wednesday November 30th, 2016 11:26:21 AM
Michael quickly wakes everyone. As he does so, the light near the window gets a little brighter and seems to move in front of the window.
Knowledge, nature, DC 20 and Pru: Highlight to display spoiler: {That certainly appears to be a will-o-wisp right outside your window!}
AC 26 T 26 F 11 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=15 ; Wednesday November 30th, 2016 5:49:20 PM
Tinker rolls out of bed and lands on his feet, his hands grabbing his urgrosh and crossbow.
The dwarf moves to the window. "I'm not gonna wait to see what's there until it comes through the window. Hold on." And Tinker, poised to dodge, tries to find out if the lights are a night watch Torch, a dragon's fire, or something in between. .......
Fully defensive, no armor.
Perception 15. (With dark vision)
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC14/14/11 vs AOO: 18/18/11- HP 52/52-- CMD 18 d20+13=29 ; d20+7=24 ; Wednesday November 30th, 2016 8:36:33 PM
Anna rolls out of bed, her full plate armor useless at the foot of her bed. She activates her darkvision morphamancy in order to get a better feel for the current layout in the darkness.
(Know[nature]: 29; Perception: 24 with darkvision)
She is able to successfully identify the Will-O-Wisp and whispers to her Fist Mates, "What is a Will-O-Wisp doing outside of our window? Isn't this unusual behavior?"
Active Effects: Darkvision: 5 hours
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday November 30th, 2016 9:11:38 PM
"If that is in fact a Will-O-Wisp, then I would say yes it is. They are intelligent, if it isn't attacking then maybe it is trying to give a message?"
Trayvin grabs his Morningstar and shield, just in case it is looking for a fight.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday November 30th, 2016 10:29:16 PM
Pru scrambles out of bed and gets to her feet, and nobody awakened from a sound sleep should look that good. And then she puts her headband on.
"It's a wisp, all right," she confirms. "I remember those. I also remember that they hurt when they attack, so let's be careful."
When her companions are ready, she moves to the window and opens it.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+5=11 ; Thursday December 1st, 2016 1:20:33 AM
Knowledge Nature +5 vs DC20 = 11
Nikolai awakens wondering what all the commotion is about and word that some Will-O-Wisps are just outside isn't reassuring. "Boy, the news of my impending possible death reaches far and wide. No one put odds on these creatures showing up, eh? At least we are much better prepared to deal with their kind than when we first met."
He stands at the ready when the window is opened.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC14/14/11 vs AOO: 18/18/11- HP 52/52-- CMD 18 Thursday December 1st, 2016 7:19:13 AM
Anna readies an action to turn into a deinonychus should the Will-O-Wisp mean business and attack any of her companions after the window is open. She figures her armor is useless when she morphs into things currently anyway so at least as a Deinonychus she can fight back.
DM JeffO Thursday December 1st, 2016 11:16:20 AM
As Michael moves about the room, he quickly wakes everyone. Tinkers moves towards the window, prepared for a fight. Anna whispers that the light is indeed a will-o-wisp. Trayvon and Anna prepare for battle while Pru suggests the group be quite careful. Pru carefully opens the window while Nikolai stands ready. When the window is opened, the light stops moving, still hovering outside the window. It blinks and in a moment two other lights join it at the window. They spin around one another for a moment, just outside your window, then they take off into the air, flying up from the small town and off to the west, the direction from which the group had come into town.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC14/14/11 vs AOO: 18/18/11- HP 52/52-- CMD 18 Thursday December 1st, 2016 3:52:07 PM
"Should I fly after them? I can only do so for 5 minutes without having to stop" Anna asks her fist mates
AC 26 T 26 F 11 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday December 1st, 2016 5:39:55 PM
Tinker grumbles. "Blasted Wisps, doing blasted things in the middle of the blasted night." He watches them fly off with a sigh of relief then scowls and grumbles some more. "Blast, blast, blast..."
"If they come back we're gonna have to follow 'me, aren't we?"
And then the dwarf continues to think. What if they don't come back? Does that mean they are scouting for something else? And if so, what?
He'll follow Prudence's lead, whatever she decides.
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday December 1st, 2016 8:59:12 PM
"Very odd behavior. I think we should see what they are up to. If they meant to attack, they probably would have already."
Prudence Gundle Thursday December 1st, 2016 10:47:35 PM
"I agree, Trayvin," Pru says. "They were probably spying on us, though I'm not sure why. No doubt we'll find out, and no doubt it'll be unpleasant. But I don't think there's anything we can do about it now."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday December 2nd, 2016 12:03:15 AM
Nikolai chimes in. "Will O' Wisps aren't know for attacking on their own. They feed off of the fear and dying of others, like in the swamp. They can attack us, of course, but prefer to incite violence between others and feed off of that. If they want us to follow them, it can only be to incite us into a fight with something else, otherwise why not attack us here?
We've got a trial tomorrow and we need to keep from getting sucked into something that will only tarnish our witness. Does anyone find it odd that they know where to find us? Why not hang around the other inn? Or another window? Of all the places to go looking for victims, why here?"
DM JeffO Friday December 2nd, 2016 9:16:03 AM
The group watches as the will-o-wisps fly away from them and the town and ponder what they could mean. The town seems quiet and dark now that the creatures are gone.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday December 2nd, 2016 11:10:02 AM Yeah will o wisps ain't like a loyal dog like " what's that boy? Timmy's in the well!". No they are more like the insane murderer who put Timmy in the well to lure you and stupid dog in so he can kill you. One of my cardinal rules is if a will o wisp want you to do something...don't do it and kill the will o wisp
Prudence Gundle Friday December 2nd, 2016 7:10:53 PM
Pru shuts the window. "All right, let's try to get some rest for what's left of the night." She sighs, as she returns to her bed, "tomorrow can't get here soon enough."
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Friday December 2nd, 2016 9:09:57 PM
"Pru, that is probably the wisest course of action. Still, I can't help wondering what it could mean."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday December 2nd, 2016 9:13:47 PM "They say, 'curiosity killed the cat', but I can't help but wonder what this was about and if we are missing out on something fun. Is that weird or what? Yeah, let's get this night over with faster by getting some more sleep."
However Nikolai has had enough sleep, or sleep just didn't come back, as he lay awake pondering their defense strategies for the morrow. No point on pondering the significance of the presence of the Will O' Wisps. Nothing good ever came from meeting one.
AC 26 T 26 F 11 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday December 2nd, 2016 9:22:03 PM
Tinker sighs, happy that Prudence has called for going back to sleep.
He takes his turn at watch and waits for morning.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Friday December 2nd, 2016 9:41:40 PM
will o wisps are bad, I don't care if they are trying to lead us back to where Gaston is hiding wringing his hands as he contemplates Nikolai's downfall. Following a will o wisp is like having a staring contest with a medusa. nothing good comes of it. they are evil and all they want to do is feed upon us as we die.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC14/14/11 vs AOO: 18/18/11- HP 52/52-- CMD 18 Friday December 2nd, 2016 11:33:26 PM
Anna prepares to turn back in, a little disappointed she didn't get to turn into a bird and fly to investigate whatever is out there.
"I was not with you guys the last time you encountered wisps. I would still like to know why they showed up but I will defer to your judgement in this matter if you think it more prudent not to follow them to the Gods know where."
DM JeffO Monday December 5th, 2016 8:55:48 AM
The group is wide awake in the middle of the night and discusses will-o-wisps, medusas, and Timmy in the well. Are the will-o-wisps sending a message? Are they trying to get the group to follow them? There are many questions and few answers on this dark night. After pondering and coming up with no answers, the group decides to attempt to go back to sleep, massive amounts of adrenaline running through the body be damned!
Some lie awake for a bit, trying to relax. The darkness and quiet make it relatively easy, but it is still difficult to fall back asleep after such midnight excitement. Michael wakes up one more time just after he falls asleep, thinking that the string trap had been hit. He sees nothing amiss in the darkness and once again tries to go back to sleep. The morning dawns early and anyone who normally needs eight hours of sleep is understandably a bit tired and perhaps cranky from a lack of quality sleep. The smell of bacon cooking from the first floor is evident and that might improve the mood of some at least a little. Outside the sun is shining brightly, not a cloud in sight, quite an improvement over the previous day. Does this portend good things for our group?
AC 25 T 25 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday December 5th, 2016 7:57:01 PM
Tinker is a proponent of the old military adage of 'never', and sleeps just fine.
In the morning, he puts on his best uniform and all his weapons. "Nikolai the prisoner, you and I will stay here for breakfast. No sense in courting trouble. When Prudence is ready, we'll all go to the courthouse together "
Tinker toys with his trick cuffs, wondering if they should put them on now to avoid real ones being slapped on Nikko or not. The dwarf looks at Prudence. He just doesn't know.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC14/14/11 vs AOO: 18/18/11- HP 52/52-- CMD 18 Monday December 5th, 2016 8:40:27 PM
The next morning, Anna, is still disappointed she did not get to go check out the wisps and is also a little hang-dog from the night before.
She changes into her mithral full plate after taking some time to polish it. She hopes to cut an imposing figure in her armor like she did the last time. She lays her arsenal out on her bed, bow, guisarme, great sword, oversized club and guitar/club.
She finally settles on the guisarme again as it may be useful for keeping any trouble at arms length should anything happen.
She leaves her weapons in the room when she goes down for breakfast and makes sure she gets a large plate of eggs, bacon, flap jacks, biscuits and hashed browns.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 d20+14=31 ; Monday December 5th, 2016 9:11:21 PM
Michael, having lived in a society where he could have been in a society where he could have awakened in the hands of a all pervalent, ruthless secret police, which pretty much encompased the entire population, goes to sleep just fine. He does though make sure to have his alarms ready though.
when he gets up he eats a hearty breakfast and brings plates up for Nikolai and Tinker. once he has eaten he dresses in his best uniform, his mithril shirt beneath it. once he is dressed and ready to go, he steps outside to check the lay of the land, looking for potiental trouble.
Perception 31
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Monday December 5th, 2016 10:06:55 PM
Trayvin puts on his armor and eats downstairs. He tries to assess the mood of anyone eating at the Inn that morning.
Prudence Gundle Monday December 5th, 2016 10:26:17 PM
After a moment's internal debate, Pru casts the extended Mage Armor spell on Nikolai just as she always does. "You never know what's going to happen," she says.
She casts it on herself, too, of course.
"I agree, Tinker, there's no point in bringing Nikolai down to breakfast; it's only going to upset people. We'll bring something up to you."
Asked about the manacles, Pru shakes her head. "Keep them. Nikolai is our companion, not our prisoner. That's what we want to convey." She smiles a little. "So if they put real ones on him, we're counting on you to be able to take them off again! If necessary."
When the group has breakfasted and prepared, Pru leads the way to the courthouse.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+14=17 ; d20+7=27 ; Monday December 5th, 2016 11:57:41 PM
Nikolai agrees to stay in the room. "Fine with me, just don't bring us any cold eggs," he grins.
He dons his uniform, ties his belt on good, and for extra measure puts on his hat. "You never know. However, if that judge is smart, he'll have some way to detect magic. At least so as to determine if anyone is under any compulsion spell or such thing."
He enjoys the food from Michael and eats heartily. His next meal may be prison fair.
He accepts the position in the middle of the pack again once they head to the courtroom. He scans the people they pass looking for some look other than the usual contempt or apprehension.
Perception +14 = 17 Sense Motive +7 = 27!
DM JeffO Tuesday December 6th, 2016 10:35:30 AM
The group rises and prepares for the day. There is much preparation in the way of uniforms and armor. Everyone works to look their best for the court. Breakfast is quiet with only a couple other farmers in place in the room. Trayvin checks out the farmers, but they appear to be in a hurry, simply grabbing some food before they head out for their work for the day. They barely give him a nod before they depart. Tink and Michael take extra helpings up to Nikolai who enjoys what may be his last breakfast.
They group gets ready to head out after a hearty (and costly) breakfast. Michael steps outside first to check the lay of the land. The street looks much like it did yesterday, only with fewer people out. There are a few puddles in the low spots on the road, leftover from the rain last night. There are people walking about, leading wagons and a couple riding on old donkeys. Looking down the street to the courthouse, he can see a couple people walk into the building, but other than that things look as normal as you might expect in a small town.
The rest of the group comes out of the inn and Pru takes the lead with Nikolai in the middle, heading towards the courthouse.
OOC: Before you enter, is anyone carrying visible weapons? Any other spells cast or preparations before you enter the building?
AC 25 T 25 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday December 6th, 2016 7:57:37 PM
Tinker defers to Prudence as she leads the team to the courthouse. Tinker follows Nikolai, his two-handed urgrosh at 'port arms' resting easy across his chest in a non threatening pose.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 vs AOO: 27/18/20- HP 52/52-- CMD 17 Tuesday December 6th, 2016 8:04:33 PM
Anna is carrying her steel glass guisarme in a non-threatening manner as the group approaches the courthouse.
She says to Pru, "Should I activate my bark skin SLA in case this is a trap or something or should I save it?"
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Tuesday December 6th, 2016 8:22:01 PM
Michael has his rapier and his short sword at his side, as an agent of the Fist and part of Farangua milita he is entitled to wear it
Prudence Gundle Tuesday December 6th, 2016 10:08:54 PM
Pru is armed with nothing but her dazzling smile, which is on full view as she steps up to the courthouse door. "Save it," she replies to Anna's question. "And let's all keep level heads. It's possible that somebody may try to provoke us into a confrontation, and we want to avoid that if we can."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday December 6th, 2016 11:40:59 PM
Nikolai is armed to the teeth (almost). His two deadly arms with iron hitting fists swing nonchalantly by his side as he walks. His two vicious feet easily sidesteps the puddles in the road and leaves hardly a trace of where he stepped.
On the other hand, who'd know that that tall, handsome half elf easily striding down the street seemingly totally defenseless surrounded by an impressive armed guard was a vicious murderer?
He scans the people they pass looking for some look other than the usual contempt or apprehension.
Perception +14 = 17 Sense Motive +7 = 27!
ooc; keeping the rolls from above as they are still part of the same action.
DM JeffO Wednesday December 7th, 2016 9:19:27 AM
When the group arrives at the courthouse, they are met at the door by Achtan. He smiles widely at Pru, but the smile disappears when he sees the others, the weapons, and the plainly very, very vicious feet (?!?). He says, “Normally we do not allow weapons of any kind in the courthouse…” he trails off and look at Pru, smiling once again, “But I suppose in this case, as you are in the Fist and all, I suppose it would be acceptable.” As he says so, a person to the side spits on the ground, clearly in contempt. He looks the group over and says, “Achtan, he’s a murderer. The Fist is no good here.” He turns and walks into the courthouse with two other men.
As the group heads into the courthouse, Achtan speaks to Pru, “Good Sergeant, since this is such an important case here, there are no other cases scheduled for today.” He pauses, then continues, “Well, actually, there are not many cases ever scheduled here. We are a quiet town, most of the time. Just take a seat and when the judge comes in, he will call for the murderer. When he does, make sure that Nikolai walks up to the front. The judge will take it from there.”
Inside the courthouse, there are about a dozen people seated in groups of two and three. All talk stops the moment the group enters the courthouse. At the front the two overweight guards from yesterday stand beside one of the doors. As the group is preparing to find seats, a person in black robes, clearly the judge, enters from the door and steps up to the raised seat in front of the room. He is bald and tall, with a large, bushy mustache. You cannot see much more about him with the flowing robes. He quickly takes a seat and slaps the arm of the chair with his hand to get the attention of everyone in the room. He calls out in a deep voice, “Bring forth the murderer!”
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Wednesday December 7th, 2016 5:57:11 PM
Trayvin looks around for a murderer. Not seeing one, he shrugs his shoulders.
AC 25 T 25 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+13=25 ; Wednesday December 7th, 2016 6:40:20 PM
Tinker growls under his breath. "I don't like this farce. It's like a trap that just keeps getting tighter no matter which way we wiggle."
Still, orders are to be cooperative, and the more suffering before exoneration will only increase the prestige of Nikolai, the Agents, and the Fist.
Tinker descends into silence and keeping a watchful eye.
Perception DC 25
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 vs AOO: 27/18/20- HP 52/52-- CMD 17 Wednesday December 7th, 2016 7:17:51 PM
"Your Honor, may I approach the bench?" Anna calls out to the judge. She is hoping to tell the judge that Nikolai is only an alleged murderer and that they intend to show that Nikolai is innocent.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP70/70 Me+12(8)10 for TW, R+12, CMB+11, CMD+22 Wednesday December 7th, 2016 7:47:26 PM
Michael nudges Nikolai, I guess he's talking to you, this isn't Fist justice, here you are guilty until proven innocent.
Prudence Gundle Wednesday December 7th, 2016 10:15:05 PM
Pru takes a deep breath before placing one hand lightly on Nikolai's arm. She leads him forward--clearly not coercing or pulling--and stops before the judge.
"This is Nikolai Komonv," she says, "although he didn't murder anyone, and we're all anxious to get this cleared up."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday December 7th, 2016 10:39:04 PM
Nikolai hides the anger of being called a murderer on the presumption that anyone can accuse someone of anything and the assumption is that they are guilty until proven innocent. But that's the way things have been in these lands for centuries, so, oh well.
"Thanks for the reminder, Michael," he mutters as he follows Pru's lead and they both approach the judge. He keeps silent for the time being, not sure what the protocols are, but figuring the judge will ask him how he pleads. No point in sounding like a bleating sheep or a whinny brat.
He does have a few seconds to ponder where was this judge when Cove was being overrun by bandits, it's citizens held captive and tortured. If his Fist had been fully aware of the laws of the land, they could have held that prisoner until this judge arrived for a trial. Would have made a big difference, maybe.
DM JeffO Thursday December 8th, 2016 8:57:33 AM
Anna calls out to the judge as Pru and Nikolai approach. The judge finally looks up and looks over Nikolai and Pru. After a moment he says, “Yes, yes, of course. You shall have your turn.” He looks at his paper and mumbles, “But I do not appreciate the weapons in my courtroom.” He calls out once again, while looking around the room, “And where is the accuser? Who declares this Nikolai a murderer?”
…
…
There is a quiet pause and the people in the room look around as well.
…
…
The door at the rear of the room opens and a figure shuffles in. The figure wears a long coat with the collar turned up, covering it from head to toe. It also wears a cowl of some sort, pulled down so that their face is shrouded in shadow. Peer as you might, and many of the crowd are doing just that, you cannot see the face of the figure. It slowly shambles across the room, up the side aisle, towards the front of the room. It seems quite uncoordinated. As it reaches the front of the aisle, it starts speaking just before it stops shuffling. The voice is squeaky and has a strange, lilting accent, “It is I. Yes, that’s the murderer right there.” It slowly raises an arm, the hand not appearing past the end of the sleeve and almost appears to lose its balance as it points…
Trayvin AC 19/10 touch Hp 70/70(BrianZ) Thursday December 8th, 2016 7:21:04 PM
Trayvin is pretty sure this seems really unusual. He's also pretty sure that just about any action will cause a scene. He waits anxiously, for the figure to finish pointing and doing whatever it is that it is doing. Trayvin isn't even sure if the figure is going to point at Nikolai, or someone else.
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 23/14/20 vs AOO: 27/18/20- HP 52/52-- CMD 17 d20+19=22 ; Thursday December 8th, 2016 7:29:21 PM
Anna notices the odd movements of the accuser and wonders if the accuser is actually alive considering how it moves and the fact that they just came from an encounter with a death worshiping cult so she reaches into her bag of tricks and pulls out a 1st level cleric scroll of deathwatch.(OOC: full round action)
She then casts the spell off the scroll and turns her sensory cone towards the accuser (OOC: 30 foot sensory cone, standard action UMD 22 vs 21 = success)
(OOC: per the spell: You instantly know whether each creature within the area is dead, fragile (alive and wounded, with 3 or fewer hit points left), fighting off death (alive with 4 or more hit points), healthy, undead, or neither alive nor dead (such as a construct))
If she determines the accuser is an undead or neither alive nor dead she approaches the bench and respectfully says to the judge, "Your honor what is the custom if the accuser is not living? Are the charges dropped?"
(OOC: Active effects: Death Watch: 10 min, 30 foot sensory emanation - tell if something is alive, dead, dying, undead or neither dead nor alive
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 22 Tch 21 Ffted 19 HP 60/60 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+8=23 ; Thursday December 8th, 2016 10:26:31 PM
The accuser strikes Nikolai as being the said dead Gerard by it's movements. He's seen plenty of zombies and how they walk to see the resemblance. Most zombies, though, are mindless, but not all undead zombie types are, some retain some intelligence upon death. An intelligence just enough to motivate the once alive creature to seek revenge.
Knowledge (Undead) - favored Enemy +8 = 23
He keeps a keen eye on the shrouded figure, studying it.
"Your Honor, the Fist carry their weapons as a precaution against anyone who would try to prevent this trial. I'm sure the'd put them away as soon as this accuser disrobes to prove he is weaponless likewise."
Prudence Gundle Thursday December 8th, 2016 10:29:54 PM
When the mysterious robed figure approaches the judge, Pru takes a step away from it, giving it a sideways look.
When Nikolai speaks, she clarifies, "That is, we would like the person to remove their cowl." Now Nikolai gets the sideways glance. "Obviously, it isn't necessary that the person disrobe completely. In fact, I'd rather he didn't."
AC 25 T 25 F 18 CMD 23 27vBull Rush or Trip; HP 91/ 91 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday December 9th, 2016 6:50:41 AM
Tinker automatically takes a disliking to the accuser. But, mindful of the judge and showing any confession may help the final outcome, the dwarf nods and lays his urgrosh on the ground behind his feet. And places his crossbow on the pile too.
DM JeffO Friday December 9th, 2016 9:01:06 AM
As the accuser moves forward, Anna starts working on a scroll. When she starts reading it, the judge motions towards her and the two overweight guards move forward, placing themselves between her and the judge. While she is reading the scroll, Nikolai carefully eyes the figure. He watches the steps and realizes that it is all wrong – the way it is moving, while completely unnatural, is not at all like a zombie would move. He can’t quite put into words why it’s wrong, but he is quite sure that the movements are not those of the undead.
Anna finishes reading her scroll and the judge starts slapping the arm of his chair, yelling, “Order! We will have order in here, or I shall throw all of you in jail!” When Anna turns towards the accuser, she is at first quite confused about the reading. Part of it is quite clear – there is no one dead there. The strange part is that while she is looking at one figure, the spell seems to be indicating to her that there are two healthy life forces there!
Nikolai and Pru ask the judge that the accuser reveal himself while Pru gives Nikolai a glance. At the same time, Tinker defers to the judge and places his weapons on the ground. The judge continues slapping the arm of his chair until there is quiet. He says to Anna, “If you cast another spell here without my permission, you’re going to jail.” To Nikolai he says, “You are the murderer. You will have your chance to speak, but not until I tell you to.” He says to Tinker, “Thank you, good sir.” Finally he turns to the accuser and says, “Indeed, that is enough. This is not a place of theatrics, you will remove your cowl immediately or I will throw you in jail, too!”
The figure sort of wobbles a bit and then the same voice says, “Okay, sure.” Two arms reach up and grab the edge of the hood and pull it back. When the hood is removed, you can see a rather small face and head, much too small for the body, with red, curly hair, a full red beard and tiny pointed ears. With eyes twinkling, the figure says, “I guess the jig is up, eh?” The robe suddenly drops to reveal two very short people that look almost like twins with the same hair and beards, one standing precariously on the other’s shoulders. When the robe drops, the one on top jumps off and onto a railing. The other sticks it’s tongue out at the judge and says, "And gone!". The first one points at the gathered group of the Fist and laughs. On the other side of the room there are howls of laughter and two more of the people, looking somehow almost exactly like the others jump up from one of the rows and are pointing at the judge and the two in front alternately, howling in laughter…
Knowledge, Nature, DC 20: Highlight to display spoiler: {The “people” are fey: leprechauns!}
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