Again, Gelthane listens to Kragen's story. He is attentive and considers his response carefully, "Brother Kragen, these are reports and accusations of great import for sure. As you know, the temple does not involve itself in the political infighting between houses or maneuver for position within the court. I will bring this information to the Adjudicator (usually the chief priest of the temple) for her to decide how to proceed." He smiles and bows to both of you, "Where can you be found once a decision is made?," he then asks.
nodding in appreciation at Gelthane's answer "I understand Brother Gelthane, i assure you this is not about maneuvering for more House advantage. If this were, i would not support this nor bring it to the Church. Both Trolkarl and Gauis want what's best for the people of the region, which i have witnessed. They are currently suffering under the current administrations heavy handed tactics. They both want to uncover the truth and bring peace and prosperity to that region."
"I appreciate your time in this manner and look forward to the Churches response. You can find Chadwick and I at the Happy Hippocampus Inn. Good day Brother"
Rises from the bench and nods to Chadwick. Stops on his way out to Tythe and pray for Tyr to provide judgement in this manner. Donates 25 gp to the Temple.
Gelthane rises with you to bid you farewell, "In the time you are waiting, perhaps bringing your concerns to the Duke would be fruitful? Travel in peace and may the scales balance for you."
Assuming Chadwick and Kragen share this information with Trolkarl, he will take the guidance of Gelthane.
Thank you my friends. Your help is appreciated.
Guhumbee, please prepare the new attire you purchased on the Rock. We are off to stand before his grace so I can swear my innocence having attempted to submit myself at the temple of Tyr.
My friends, I will bathe and change. Anyone wishing to accompany me to the court to share the truth and accept the justice of Cormyr is welcome.
Starker will de-skull his quarterstaff and leave the skull and brain jar in his room. He brushes his hair and beard and takes a brush to Cryus’ fez and vest.
“This will be fascinating. I will join you. Thank you for the invitation. I wish you every success.”
Trolkarl and Gohumbee are prepared in their complementary fine outfits. Starker looks the most presentable you have seen him to date. Cyrus is parading about like a peacock after his grooming session. All weapons and armor are prohibited in the court. Gneuman and Starker are allowed their staves and the rest are allowed a dagger. The Duke's court is being held at the Magistrate's Hall. Presenting himself, Trolkarl's rank as brother of the Earl of Ravenshield works to his benefit. He is to be among the first petitioners to the Duke, ahead of all of the commoners. There are two in front of you who plead their cases to the Duke. The House of Everwatch from the border with the Iron Mountains seeks help with orc raiding taking place there. The Duke refers them to his Knight Commander of the Purple Dragons to discuss further. The second is the Earl of Darkmoor seeking permission to build a mill on the Drakken river. There is much discussion between the Duke and the Earl about this. It seems that there is a miller downstream that is charging prices a bit high for grinding Darkmoor wheat. But it is clear that the Duke is favorably disposed to that miller. It is a delicate exchange and the Duke is containing his frustration with Earl Darkmoor. Ultimately, it is agreed upon that a delegation will be sent from the court to investigate the situation. Next it is Trolkarl.
"Trolkarl of House Ravenshield. To plead his innocence!," the crier announces him.
A slight murmur runs through the crowd at this announcement. The Duke looks up with a bit more attention, "Yes. Approach Trolkarl of Ravenshield. Speak your peace."
Trolkarl steps forward with measured grace. He lowers his head, crosses his right hand over his chest resting on his heart, while the left sweeps in a formal bow. He hold the position briefly to express reverence then straighting and meets the duke's gaze.
Your Grace, I humbly present myself before you, not merely as Trolkarl of House Ravenshield, but as a loyal subject of Cormyr, seeking the justice and wisdom that only you can provide. I stand accused of a grave crime, and I come to proclaim my innocence and reveal the deeper truth behind these accusations.
When I fled my home, it was not out of guilt but necessity. I saw wrong being done to the people of Cormyr. I fled, not wanting to be a part of this situation. Thus, I became a target of a scheme, as did my brother, Handers, whose death I am now falsely accused of causing. I believe this accusation was manufactured to eliminate both of us—two who stood as barriers to the designs of our house advisor.
This matter reaches far beyond myself or my house. A malignancy has long taken root within the Ravenshields—a tumor in the form of the drow Alamnal. His influence has twisted our legacy, corrupted our purpose, and, I fear, disrupted the harmony of Cormyr. I believe the animosity between my family and the noble House of Hartstone was not a natural rivalry but a deception skillfully orchestrated by Alamnal to serve his ambitions.
Your Grace, I submit myself fully to your judgment and the justice of this court. I come not to plead for mercy but to seek the truth, to clear my name, and to preserve the honor of House Ravenshield. I ask that you grant me the opportunity to prove my innocence, expose the true villain, and restore harmony to the realm we both hold dear.
May your wisdom and sense of justice guide us in this endeavor. I am ready to answer your questions and serve as you see fit.
Trokarl will answer all questions honestly. He will share the history of the attack by the bounty hunters and submit the diary of Halandil Ravenshield and delicately offer Starker as a guide to the relevant passages related to anything asked.
Your Grace, if I may, I would ask for the presence of my companion, Starker, a learned scholar of remarkable insight and expertise in arcane studies. While his methods may at times appear unconventional, his knowledge of historical texts and magical influences has been invaluable in uncovering the truth behind the source that has plagued my family.
He has meticulously studied passages from my grandfather’s diary—records that reveal activities conducted by the drow Alamnal over generations, including the attempted assassination of a Duke of this realm in years past. Starker’s learned interpretation of these texts can provide clarity and context that I believe will aid in understanding the depth of this conspiracy.
I humbly request that Your Grace permit his presence, as his scholarship could illuminate critical details and expedite matters.
The Duke listens. His right eyebrow raises as Trolkarl recounts the accusation of murder against himself. He then replies asking for the information about the attack in Granitestead. He quizzes one of his advisors about the taxation receipts from Earl Ravenshield to find they are up to date and paid. He nods at this. He asks that the diary be submitted for examination by his advisors. Following all of this he asks for the mage Starker to approach, "Wizard Starker, what have you to add to the story of Trolkarl Ravenshield?"
Starker:”Your Grace, I have studied the diary of Trokarl’s ancestor carefully. It contains several passages that can be read as implicating Almanal in a decadal plot to place an easily manipulated person in the Seat in question. Note, please, that I said ‘can be read’. You may ask why I read them in this fashion. The reason is that I have carefully observed Trokarl since the day I met him and I am certain that he could no more kill his father’s son than he could extinguish the Sun in the sky. So, I start with the axiom that Trokarl is innocent, and the rest follows.
”Let us turn to the matter of the poisoning that was seemingly committed by Gaius Heartstone’s ancestor, the first obvious murder in this tale but not, I think the only murder. A witness saw someone who looked like Heartstone manipulate a substance that was then consumed by the victim immediately before the victim died of poison. The witness knew Heartstone and the case was seemingly open and shut. However, years later Almanal was recorded as possessing and using a magical item that allowed him to imitate the appearance, mannerisms, and voice of another do well as to make a son believe his dead father returned to life.
”Trokarl’s ancestor proved insufficiently pliable and became suspicious of Alamnal. His supposedly accidental death seems very convenient and the ascension of his heavy-drinking scion useful to someone seeking to control the area from behind a wine-soaked throne.”
”The diary has several passages that suggest the continued existence and location of evidence that Your Grace may wish to be brought forth and examined as he considers whether or not to re-open the question of the rightful lordship of the land in question.
“Your Grace’s citizens, who look to you for justice, are afraid, intimidated by Alamnal. They fear that they, if they speak out, will disappear mysteriously as many have after having mentioned their fears and suspicions.
“Finally, Your Grace, I mention that through the use of a device that allows us limited divination abilities we believe that Trokarl’s brother is not dead but has been hidden and is in some repeating distress.
”I know that Trokarl is innocent of the crime of which he has been accused and join my companions in imploring Your Grace to re-open the investigation. In order that Order should reign as it should, I also ask Your Grace to give us your leave and your writ to demand access to the locations where the diary suggests dispositive evidence might be found.
“Many thanks for Your Grace and His Court having listened so patiently to this commoner’s uncommon testimony.”
The Duke works hard to follow Starker's erudite elocution in endearing the exoneration of his companion, Trolkarl. He tries. As Starker concludes he has a brief look of relief cross his face and then asks, "Are there any others who would speak on behalf of Trolkarl Ravenshield?"
Gaius steps forward, "I would do so, Your Grace."
The Duke grimaces a bit, "Are you not a Hartstone?" His demeanor hardens a bit.
"I am Gaius Hartstone, youngest son of Tertian Hartstone, Your Grace," he responds.
The Duke appears to have hardened at the appearance of a Hartstone in his court. "Go on," he says tersely.
Gaius begins, "Yes, Your Grace. This investigation was actually begun following Trolkarl Ravenshield's departure and soon accusation by his brother of fratricide on Handers Ravenshield. My family has kept very detailed records of the false accusation against my grandfather and his attempt to murder his Duke, your grandfather, by poison. My family steadfastly maintains the innocence of my forebear, but alas, the only one alive from that time is whom I believe to be the most likely perpetrator. Alamnal Deepwalker had the most to gain from what has come to pass these several generations. I do not know the ultimate designs, only that he has become more influential over an earldom of Cormyr." He looks for guidance from the Duke about how he is doing and receives a stony face in return. Pressing on, "I have also read the record that the mage Starker has summarized to you. I agree with his interpretation, understanding the bias I have as a Hartstone. I also can testify to the attempted murder of this entire troupe at the hands of assassins hired by Alamnal, by the admission of one Falonir. He is a mage who worked with the assassins in their attempt on the lives of these good men in Granitestead of the Spine of the World mountains." He pauses to catch his breath and concludes, "I beg your attention to this matter to shed light on the mystery of what truly happened between our grandfathers. Mine was a loyal liegeman to yours. It made little sense he would make an attempt upon his life."
The Duke nods, softening a bit at the end. He addresses Gaius, "It is either temerity or righteousness that brings you to say these things to my face. Time will discern which." Addressing the rest of the collected people, "Is there any who would add to this tale?"
Kragen steps forward “my lord, a humble servant of Tyr, the lord of law and justice, requests an audience to support Master Trolkarl.” Bows as formal as he can muster for a grumpy dwarf.
assuming he is given the opportunity, continues on.
”Master Trolkarl speaks true, something nefarious is afoot in your realm. Facts and witness accounts lead us to believe this Drow has manipulated circumstances in his benefit and have crafted the untimely deaths of Trolkarls father and his hunting party, the attempt on your grandfathers life via poisoned wine and the subjugation of your people. Allow him to prove his character and return your lands to the North to peace and prosperity.”
”I am prepared, with you approval, to submit Trolkarl to Tyrs divine power to see a persons true character. Tyr will see he tell the truth.” Bows and holds his arms outstretched waiting for the Dukes response.
Gneuman steps forward and clears his throat. He glances briefly at Trolkarl and the others, then bows deeply, as his chin-beard brushes the floor.
"Your Lordship,
I humbly extend my greetings and offer my deepest respect. With great reverence, I wish to convey my unwavering loyalty and trust regarding my friend Trolkarl of Ravenshield name. As my comrades have conveyed evidence of his honor and valor, but also humility and kindness. I Gneuman, son of Gnorman, stand at Trokarl's side and offer any assistance or service necessary to prove his innocence, as it would please you."
Gneuman then backs slowly to stand with his friends.
"May your days be filled with prosperity and your reign be long and just. ...My Lord."
The Duke accepts Kragen's account. "And do you speak for your Adjudicator, priest of Tyr? Or, only for yourself?"
“Currently myself, my Lord. We have brought Trolakarl’s case and his request to the church and are currently awaiting word from the Adjudicator, the Prelate.”
Hold steps forward, "If I may say a few words . . . I am Hoid, a vagabond dwarf in the company of Trolkarl Ravenshield. I cannot speak directly about any of the murders in question because I did not bear witness to any of the deeds. However, I can speak to other events that may be relevant.
Alamnal sent a group of would-be assassins to kill everyone in the company of Trolkarl Ravenshield. The would-be assassins did not approach the authorities of Granitestead with a warrant, or even an accusation of wrongdoing by Trolkarl Ravenshield, that would allow the authorities to peacefully apprehend Trolkarl Ravenshield and transport him safely for trial. Instead, the would-be assassins accosted us in Granitestead without any concern for justice or compliance with the law. The would-be assassins tried to murder us all by drawing us in via illusion, and employed vile necromantic devices. The devices were so vile that the authorities in Granitestead required their destruction after we vanquished the would-be assassins, without regard for any potential scholarly investigation of the devices. Those are not the acts of the good or the lawful.
Speaking of vanquishing the would-be assassins, Gaius Hartstone came to our aid of his own accord. He could not be blamed for having animosity towards all members of House Ravenshield, yet risked his life and limb to defend Trolkarl Ravenshield and his unknown companions. Even if House Hartstone was in the wrong in the past, and I reemphasize that I did not bear witness to any relevant past events, Gaius Hartstone has proven his true character by aiding us with the would-be assassins.
I am willing to answer any questions you may have."
Chadwick bows formally in the style taught to him by the Knights of the Holy order.
"Your Grace, I am Sir Chadwick LeRoy Jenkins, Knight of the Holy Order of Judgement.
I cannot add more evidence than my much more eloquent companions have already presented, however I can speak to Trolkarl's character.
Time and time again I see him standing up against those who oppose Law and Goodness®. Whether it was dragons, giants, or mind flayers he never wavered. He has never behaved in any manner that would make me question his character.
I have trusted my life to him more times than I can count since meeting him. He doesn't seek glory or riches, he strives to do what's right.
I am deeply grateful for your time and consideration your Grace. Your willingness to hear and address these matters demonstrates your commitment to justice and the well-being of your subjects. Your attentiveness and wisdom are greatly appreciated, and I am confident that your fair judgment will bring about a positive resolution."
Chadwick bows again "Your Grace", then heads back to join the rest of the group.
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Again, Gelthane listens to Kragen's story. He is attentive and considers his response carefully, "Brother Kragen, these are reports and accusations of great import for sure. As you know, the temple does not involve itself in the political infighting between houses or maneuver for position within the court. I will bring this information to the Adjudicator (usually the chief priest of the temple) for her to decide how to proceed." He smiles and bows to both of you, "Where can you be found once a decision is made?," he then asks.
nodding in appreciation at Gelthane's answer "I understand Brother Gelthane, i assure you this is not about maneuvering for more House advantage. If this were, i would not support this nor bring it to the Church. Both Trolkarl and Gauis want what's best for the people of the region, which i have witnessed. They are currently suffering under the current administrations heavy handed tactics. They both want to uncover the truth and bring peace and prosperity to that region."
"I appreciate your time in this manner and look forward to the Churches response. You can find Chadwick and I at the Happy Hippocampus Inn. Good day Brother"
Rises from the bench and nods to Chadwick. Stops on his way out to Tythe and pray for Tyr to provide judgement in this manner. Donates 25 gp to the Temple.
Gelthane rises with you to bid you farewell, "In the time you are waiting, perhaps bringing your concerns to the Duke would be fruitful? Travel in peace and may the scales balance for you."
Assuming Chadwick and Kragen share this information with Trolkarl, he will take the guidance of Gelthane.
Thank you my friends. Your help is appreciated.
Guhumbee, please prepare the new attire you purchased on the Rock. We are off to stand before his grace so I can swear my innocence having attempted to submit myself at the temple of Tyr.
My friends, I will bathe and change. Anyone wishing to accompany me to the court to share the truth and accept the justice of Cormyr is welcome.
Starker will de-skull his quarterstaff and leave the skull and brain jar in his room. He brushes his hair and beard and takes a brush to Cryus’ fez and vest.
“This will be fascinating. I will join you. Thank you for the invitation. I wish you every success.”
To Trolkarl “I will support you my Friend!” “The Duke will know your true character.”
determination in his eyes
Hoid will attend.
Gneuman will also stand with Trolkarl.
Trolkarl and Gohumbee are prepared in their complementary fine outfits. Starker looks the most presentable you have seen him to date. Cyrus is parading about like a peacock after his grooming session. All weapons and armor are prohibited in the court. Gneuman and Starker are allowed their staves and the rest are allowed a dagger. The Duke's court is being held at the Magistrate's Hall. Presenting himself, Trolkarl's rank as brother of the Earl of Ravenshield works to his benefit. He is to be among the first petitioners to the Duke, ahead of all of the commoners. There are two in front of you who plead their cases to the Duke. The House of Everwatch from the border with the Iron Mountains seeks help with orc raiding taking place there. The Duke refers them to his Knight Commander of the Purple Dragons to discuss further. The second is the Earl of Darkmoor seeking permission to build a mill on the Drakken river. There is much discussion between the Duke and the Earl about this. It seems that there is a miller downstream that is charging prices a bit high for grinding Darkmoor wheat. But it is clear that the Duke is favorably disposed to that miller. It is a delicate exchange and the Duke is containing his frustration with Earl Darkmoor. Ultimately, it is agreed upon that a delegation will be sent from the court to investigate the situation. Next it is Trolkarl.
"Trolkarl of House Ravenshield. To plead his innocence!," the crier announces him.
A slight murmur runs through the crowd at this announcement. The Duke looks up with a bit more attention, "Yes. Approach Trolkarl of Ravenshield. Speak your peace."
Trolkarl steps forward with measured grace. He lowers his head, crosses his right hand over his chest resting on his heart, while the left sweeps in a formal bow. He hold the position briefly to express reverence then straighting and meets the duke's gaze.
Your Grace, I humbly present myself before you, not merely as Trolkarl of House Ravenshield, but as a loyal subject of Cormyr, seeking the justice and wisdom that only you can provide. I stand accused of a grave crime, and I come to proclaim my innocence and reveal the deeper truth behind these accusations.
When I fled my home, it was not out of guilt but necessity. I saw wrong being done to the people of Cormyr. I fled, not wanting to be a part of this situation. Thus, I became a target of a scheme, as did my brother, Handers, whose death I am now falsely accused of causing. I believe this accusation was manufactured to eliminate both of us—two who stood as barriers to the designs of our house advisor.
This matter reaches far beyond myself or my house. A malignancy has long taken root within the Ravenshields—a tumor in the form of the drow Alamnal. His influence has twisted our legacy, corrupted our purpose, and, I fear, disrupted the harmony of Cormyr. I believe the animosity between my family and the noble House of Hartstone was not a natural rivalry but a deception skillfully orchestrated by Alamnal to serve his ambitions.
Your Grace, I submit myself fully to your judgment and the justice of this court. I come not to plead for mercy but to seek the truth, to clear my name, and to preserve the honor of House Ravenshield. I ask that you grant me the opportunity to prove my innocence, expose the true villain, and restore harmony to the realm we both hold dear.
May your wisdom and sense of justice guide us in this endeavor. I am ready to answer your questions and serve as you see fit.
Trokarl will answer all questions honestly. He will share the history of the attack by the bounty hunters and submit the diary of Halandil Ravenshield and delicately offer Starker as a guide to the relevant passages related to anything asked.
Your Grace, if I may, I would ask for the presence of my companion, Starker, a learned scholar of remarkable insight and expertise in arcane studies. While his methods may at times appear unconventional, his knowledge of historical texts and magical influences has been invaluable in uncovering the truth behind the source that has plagued my family.
He has meticulously studied passages from my grandfather’s diary—records that reveal activities conducted by the drow Alamnal over generations, including the attempted assassination of a Duke of this realm in years past. Starker’s learned interpretation of these texts can provide clarity and context that I believe will aid in understanding the depth of this conspiracy.
I humbly request that Your Grace permit his presence, as his scholarship could illuminate critical details and expedite matters.
The Duke listens. His right eyebrow raises as Trolkarl recounts the accusation of murder against himself. He then replies asking for the information about the attack in Granitestead. He quizzes one of his advisors about the taxation receipts from Earl Ravenshield to find they are up to date and paid. He nods at this. He asks that the diary be submitted for examination by his advisors. Following all of this he asks for the mage Starker to approach, "Wizard Starker, what have you to add to the story of Trolkarl Ravenshield?"
Gohumbee looks on, nervously.
Starker:”Your Grace, I have studied the diary of Trokarl’s ancestor carefully. It contains several passages that can be read as implicating Almanal in a decadal plot to place an easily manipulated person in the Seat in question. Note, please, that I said ‘can be read’. You may ask why I read them in this fashion. The reason is that I have carefully observed Trokarl since the day I met him and I am certain that he could no more kill his father’s son than he could extinguish the Sun in the sky. So, I start with the axiom that Trokarl is innocent, and the rest follows.
”Let us turn to the matter of the poisoning that was seemingly committed by Gaius Heartstone’s ancestor, the first obvious murder in this tale but not, I think the only murder. A witness saw someone who looked like Heartstone manipulate a substance that was then consumed by the victim immediately before the victim died of poison. The witness knew Heartstone and the case was seemingly open and shut. However, years later Almanal was recorded as possessing and using a magical item that allowed him to imitate the appearance, mannerisms, and voice of another do well as to make a son believe his dead father returned to life.
”Trokarl’s ancestor proved insufficiently pliable and became suspicious of Alamnal. His supposedly accidental death seems very convenient and the ascension of his heavy-drinking scion useful to someone seeking to control the area from behind a wine-soaked throne.”
”The diary has several passages that suggest the continued existence and location of evidence that Your Grace may wish to be brought forth and examined as he considers whether or not to re-open the question of the rightful lordship of the land in question.
“Your Grace’s citizens, who look to you for justice, are afraid, intimidated by Alamnal. They fear that they, if they speak out, will disappear mysteriously as many have after having mentioned their fears and suspicions.
“Finally, Your Grace, I mention that through the use of a device that allows us limited divination abilities we believe that Trokarl’s brother is not dead but has been hidden and is in some repeating distress.
”I know that Trokarl is innocent of the crime of which he has been accused and join my companions in imploring Your Grace to re-open the investigation. In order that Order should reign as it should, I also ask Your Grace to give us your leave and your writ to demand access to the locations where the diary suggests dispositive evidence might be found.
“Many thanks for Your Grace and His Court having listened so patiently to this commoner’s uncommon testimony.”
The Duke works hard to follow Starker's erudite elocution in endearing the exoneration of his companion, Trolkarl. He tries. As Starker concludes he has a brief look of relief cross his face and then asks, "Are there any others who would speak on behalf of Trolkarl Ravenshield?"
Gaius steps forward, "I would do so, Your Grace."
The Duke grimaces a bit, "Are you not a Hartstone?" His demeanor hardens a bit.
"I am Gaius Hartstone, youngest son of Tertian Hartstone, Your Grace," he responds.
The Duke appears to have hardened at the appearance of a Hartstone in his court. "Go on," he says tersely.
Gaius begins, "Yes, Your Grace. This investigation was actually begun following Trolkarl Ravenshield's departure and soon accusation by his brother of fratricide on Handers Ravenshield. My family has kept very detailed records of the false accusation against my grandfather and his attempt to murder his Duke, your grandfather, by poison. My family steadfastly maintains the innocence of my forebear, but alas, the only one alive from that time is whom I believe to be the most likely perpetrator. Alamnal Deepwalker had the most to gain from what has come to pass these several generations. I do not know the ultimate designs, only that he has become more influential over an earldom of Cormyr." He looks for guidance from the Duke about how he is doing and receives a stony face in return. Pressing on, "I have also read the record that the mage Starker has summarized to you. I agree with his interpretation, understanding the bias I have as a Hartstone. I also can testify to the attempted murder of this entire troupe at the hands of assassins hired by Alamnal, by the admission of one Falonir. He is a mage who worked with the assassins in their attempt on the lives of these good men in Granitestead of the Spine of the World mountains." He pauses to catch his breath and concludes, "I beg your attention to this matter to shed light on the mystery of what truly happened between our grandfathers. Mine was a loyal liegeman to yours. It made little sense he would make an attempt upon his life."
The Duke nods, softening a bit at the end. He addresses Gaius, "It is either temerity or righteousness that brings you to say these things to my face. Time will discern which." Addressing the rest of the collected people, "Is there any who would add to this tale?"
Kragen steps forward “my lord, a humble servant of Tyr, the lord of law and justice, requests an audience to support Master Trolkarl.” Bows as formal as he can muster for a grumpy dwarf.
assuming he is given the opportunity, continues on.
”Master Trolkarl speaks true, something nefarious is afoot in your realm. Facts and witness accounts lead us to believe this Drow has manipulated circumstances in his benefit and have crafted the untimely deaths of Trolkarls father and his hunting party, the attempt on your grandfathers life via poisoned wine and the subjugation of your people. Allow him to prove his character and return your lands to the North to peace and prosperity.”
”I am prepared, with you approval, to submit Trolkarl to Tyrs divine power to see a persons true character. Tyr will see he tell the truth.” Bows and holds his arms outstretched waiting for the Dukes response.
The Duke accepts Kragen's account. "And do you speak for your Adjudicator, priest of Tyr? Or, only for yourself?"
Gneuman steps forward and clears his throat. He glances briefly at Trolkarl and the others, then bows deeply, as his chin-beard brushes the floor.
"Your Lordship,
I humbly extend my greetings and offer my deepest respect. With great reverence, I wish to convey my unwavering loyalty and trust regarding my friend Trolkarl of Ravenshield name. As my comrades have conveyed evidence of his honor and valor, but also humility and kindness. I Gneuman, son of Gnorman, stand at Trokarl's side and offer any assistance or service necessary to prove his innocence, as it would please you."
Gneuman then backs slowly to stand with his friends.
"May your days be filled with prosperity and your reign be long and just. ...My Lord."
“Currently myself, my Lord. We have brought Trolakarl’s case and his request to the church and are currently awaiting word from the Adjudicator, the Prelate.”
Hold steps forward, "If I may say a few words . . . I am Hoid, a vagabond dwarf in the company of Trolkarl Ravenshield. I cannot speak directly about any of the murders in question because I did not bear witness to any of the deeds. However, I can speak to other events that may be relevant.
Alamnal sent a group of would-be assassins to kill everyone in the company of Trolkarl Ravenshield. The would-be assassins did not approach the authorities of Granitestead with a warrant, or even an accusation of wrongdoing by Trolkarl Ravenshield, that would allow the authorities to peacefully apprehend Trolkarl Ravenshield and transport him safely for trial. Instead, the would-be assassins accosted us in Granitestead without any concern for justice or compliance with the law. The would-be assassins tried to murder us all by drawing us in via illusion, and employed vile necromantic devices. The devices were so vile that the authorities in Granitestead required their destruction after we vanquished the would-be assassins, without regard for any potential scholarly investigation of the devices. Those are not the acts of the good or the lawful.
Speaking of vanquishing the would-be assassins, Gaius Hartstone came to our aid of his own accord. He could not be blamed for having animosity towards all members of House Ravenshield, yet risked his life and limb to defend Trolkarl Ravenshield and his unknown companions. Even if House Hartstone was in the wrong in the past, and I reemphasize that I did not bear witness to any relevant past events, Gaius Hartstone has proven his true character by aiding us with the would-be assassins.
I am willing to answer any questions you may have."
Chadwick bows formally in the style taught to him by the Knights of the Holy order.
"Your Grace, I am Sir Chadwick LeRoy Jenkins, Knight of the Holy Order of Judgement.
I cannot add more evidence than my much more eloquent companions have already presented, however I can speak to Trolkarl's character.
Time and time again I see him standing up against those who oppose Law and Goodness®. Whether it was dragons, giants, or mind flayers he never wavered. He has never behaved in any manner that would make me question his character.
I have trusted my life to him more times than I can count since meeting him. He doesn't seek glory or riches, he strives to do what's right.
I am deeply grateful for your time and consideration your Grace. Your willingness to hear and address these matters demonstrates your commitment to justice and the well-being of your subjects. Your attentiveness and wisdom are greatly appreciated, and I am confident that your fair judgment will bring about a positive resolution."
Chadwick bows again "Your Grace", then heads back to join the rest of the group.