This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The party stands with the twins all having been effected by the zone of truth feel an oddly warm sensation. From the clergy a woman steps out. She's wearing brilliant white robes trimmed with gold and a golden circlet on her head. Her hair is black but flecked with gray at her temples. From where the party stands only Kiran and the twins recognize this woman. This is grand inquisitor Tigana Pentaghast, a human, who looks to be in her late middle-age. Her expression is curious as she walks from one end of the platform you're all standing on together.
"You are the last house to be called today to give evidence on the attacks made against you on the road to Ospel. We ask your testimony be brief but accurate to the events that occurred three days ago," she adds. Her voice resonates throughout the room and no one else seems to utter a word as she speaks. "I am Tigana Pentaghast the grand inquisitor of our court of the Lightbringer. May nothing but truth pass your lips," she adds her robes sweep the ground as she approaches the center of the group nearest to Kiran. "What happened on the day of the attacks inquisitor Hallowedsworn," she asks her stern expression baring down on him. "Who were your assailants and what manner of beasts aided them? How did you as well as your companions succeed in thwarting the attackers when so many other houses were not," she asks Kiran these rapid fire questions without breaking to let him answer her expression unreadable before she glares at him.
Then Onyx attempts to speak but she holds up a gloved hand to stop him. Before she can begin again how ever the crowd within the clergy begins to chatter as a figure rises up to their feet.
"This is an inquiry into the attacks not a trial," Jubel Baelfire calls out standing from the clergy section wearing robes and not armor. "Its a wonder anyone survived the attacks? Are we now to chide this house for success when the consequence for failure was death? I believe the grand inquisitor should choose her questions with empathy if she is to continue," the paladin adds as a murmur of approval as well as jeers of derision are also heard in the court room.
"Yes, yes...of course," Tigana says nodding. "I apologize for any implications of fault," she adds with a slight smirk before composing her expression bowing slightly to Onyx and waving off Jubel. The paladin retakes his seat but he more visible in the crowd of white and gold as well as his knights now more clearly visible amongst the clergy all in robes too only Idemiah and Esrah seem to be armed and armored.
"So, what did you see during the attack," Tigana Pentaghast asks staring straight into your eyes as she speaks.
OOC: This is the question she puts to each of you. I will roll a straight d20 to see the order from Kiran, who I want to go first, will go building on the testimony of each of you to the last person without anyone getting advantage other than the dice Gods. If your PC gets the same number whoever can post first just post. Try to keep it to what you honestly remembered. Try not to go back into the thread. Good luck!
Order
Kiran is #1
Varen 8
Elavor 9
Petal 13
Ronegan 8
Ran 13
OOC: also tell me who you're standing by on the platform. Imagine a line but you're all facing the groups of people in the court room.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Kiran would be standing at one end of the line and responds to the questions calmly without showing any expression, his gaze focused in the distance rather than on his questioner, "We were attacked in a well-planned ambush by ruffians who appeared to be masquerading as members of the other Houses, though their uniforms were notably second-hand or worn, indicating they were not current members. When our skills in combat were able to take down several of them, a group of gnolls charged in on horseback and attacked as well. We were able to focus our attacks on them as we'd driven off most of the other attackers and managed to take them down quickly. To address your earlier question as to how we were able to drive them off, I'd have thought that obvious, though we did suffer casualties, we had a number of trained and skilled warriors amongst us, including myself. I, myself, was trained by the church in the art of combat, why would you be surprised that it was enough to fend off those who would stand against us?"
Ran remains still as the dead while he listens to the grand inquisitor's questions and then Kiran's answer. His only movement is to look down at the two on either side of him, Petal and Ronegan. He's started feeling protective of Petal. Her performance when they went to the barracks and her bravery last night have changed how he sees her. She's not a child and in most ways far more adult than he is. But her small size still makes him want to keep her from harm. He was surprised to see Ronegan on the other side of him. He and Elavor always seem in the middle of discussing something but it appears that something happened last night that has them less talkative with each other.
When Kiran is finished speaking, Ran stares straight at the inquisitor. If she'd meant to throw him off his plan of simple straight forward answers, she'd succeeded.
"You've never been in battle, have you?" Ran asks her. "If you had, you would never have called what happened success. We left home with close to three dozen, including the royal family. After the ambush, we had, what, a third of that number. No one loses two thirds of their comrades and calls it success. It was a bloody massacre. The only reason we're standing here before you is because of the bravery and resolve of the men and women of Firstforge. By all rights, we should all be dead. Whoever put that ambush together knew what they were doing. Tree down to block the road. Forest on either side. Horses hitched to carriages and wagons. There was no way to run. Crossbowmen on our sides and flanks. Raiders mixed in with travelers on the road ahead. But the Firstforge guard stood strong. They collapsed around the royal family and kept them alive. That left those of us who could fight free reign to race out to cut the crossbowmen down and even the odds. We withstood that first onslaught but not their call for reinforcements. Like the junior inquisitor here said, a reserve group of gnolls raced in on horseback as the second wave. All I had time for from the moment I was on the edges fighting the crossbowmen and then the gnolls was to hack, and slash, and defend and slash again until there was no one left in front of me. Once I realized it was over I turned back and saw the carnage. Over twenty men and women of the house guard lying dead on the ground. That's not success. That's failure. Whoever did this is smart. And one evil bastard."
Petal looks nervously up at Ran up on her right as he finishes speaking. She glances at a Varen on her left to see if she will talk first so she can hide away before a wave of courage takes over her.
“Ran told it as it is m’lady. I was on the wagon with Ronegan and the King.... I mean, he wasn’t king at the time, he was prince and his father was King but I was with the current King... King Onyx. Well, I was looking at how pretty the landscape was - I’ve been cooped up in the stronghold at Bhil Durahl for a long long time and the air was quite refreshing. When the archers attacked, I may have been a bit foolish, I ran towards one of them hoping to draw fire from the king. I don’t know where this archer was from, but I don’t think they are as accustomed to the wilderness as I. The ground beneath their feet turned out to be as much an enemy to them as any of us. When I looked behind me, Ronegan, Elavor and the King were taking cover behind the wagon. I joined them, concerned for their safety as the Gnolls attacked and when I looked over the wagon.... they were all done with.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Varen stands on the other side of Petal from Ran, and Kiran on the opposite side. She watches as the others give their testimony, glancing to the crowd at Jubel as Ran speaks, trying to get a feel for what the paladin thinks of the testimony up to that point. As Petal gives her accounting, she focuses on the Grand Inquisitor to determine what, if any, reaction the woman has -- does she seem even more suspicious of them? She wonders if she can pivot the questioning away from the specifics of battle before someone slips up and says something damning.
Insight (Jubel) 3
Insight (Grand Inquisitor) 4
OOC: If more appropriate, just take the first roll for both, but I figured two "targets" at two separate times.
"Had the first wave of crossbow bolts been slightly better aimed, you'd be trying to garner answers from a pile of corpses in the forest outside Grambler. We were lucky. I myself only took a glancing blow." Varen motions to the scored shoulderplate of her armor, where the bolt almost sank true. "Princess Opal, Ran, and myself kept our mounts and were able to run down some of the brigands. Your inquisitor did a fine job in the melee, and he and I were able to turn the tide for the houseguard... though not after significant losses." She pauses, thinking about the guard who lost her brother.
Varen removes from her satchel the pieces of cloth she cut from the three bandit corpses, bearing the markings of Turco, Caelano, and Marshfield. She holds up the pieces in her right hand, the emblems clear to see for the crowd. "This is from the gear worn by the bandits. Three Great Houses potentially implicated if the ambush failed." She pauses for effect. "But! I don't believe it was an alliance of the other Kings to bring down Firstforge. I think we are being played by an outside force who wants to pit House against House in this critical time."
Elavor glances sideways down the line of his companions. He stands at the far end, next to Varen, yet giving her space. He knows he has to be honest, and he knows his companions are relying on him, this is no time for subterfuge. He takes a deep calming breath. Seeing as no one is speaking, he looks forward, towards the feet of the Grand Inquisitor and as he speaks, he ticks off the main points, thinking of the experience like he was trying to describe a treasure map...
"I traveled on my horse Dust next to the wagon that carried Petal, Ronegan, and his highness, Prince (now King) Onyx. The road that day was fairly uneventful, until we reached the tree lain across the road.
I've encountered road bandits before, usually those are attacks of desperation, poorly planned events with a couple of people. But this felt organized and planned, with more people.
We were attacked by archers first, I thought they were arrows initially, and then I later saw they were crossbow bolts. I shot an arrow, and quickly hid under the wagon, thinking this would be a safe place. Ronegan and his highness were there. I didn't see much from under there, and eventually I gathered enough courage to pop out and shoot an arrow again.
I believe I killed one of the bandits. The house guard were in full battle then, and I was full of confusion and anxiety. I lost track of where most of my companions were. I had not been in many battles like this. There were a lot of dead. I think I heard howling, or someone blowing a horn. I saw the gnolls, and I don't recall if I threw my daggers at one of them or a remaining bandit. I recall throwing them. And retrieving them from a corpse.
I searched the body, but I didn't find anything identifiable like Varen related. The rest of my companions had fought much more valiantly than I. I recall trying to get my horse, Dust, you'll remember, to help move the fallen tree. She spooked, she's not used to being asked to do those things... and I had to calm her down, but my nerves were in a bundle. Eventually, she calmed. And the others moved the tree.
I wasn't much help at all, and then we regrouped and made our way on the road."
Elavor takes another deep breath, calming himself. A drink would be wonderful right now...
Ronegan stands between Ran and Kiran, and the two men are able to see Ronegan's fists clenched at his sides, clenched so tight that his knuckles appear white. Ronegan had such contempt for these people, those who claim to be pursuing knowledge, but in the halfling's eyes, seemed to be pursuing knowledge to punish, not protect.
When it is his turn to speak, his countenance and manner change completely, and everyone in the household that hears him can tell that Ronegan has slipped into schoolmaster mode -- the same tone, voice and cadence he's used for the twins' lectures for all those years.
"I must confess, I was caught completely surprised by the archers. I was in the wagon with his Highness and Petal, and before I knew it, I was struck three times" he gestures to his thigh, shoulder and belly. "As a halfling of some learning, I was quite interested in the experience of being struck with an arrow. It was rather cold, you know? Very different than I imagined. One would think that the warmth of the blood, the pain would be overwhelming. That was not the case. Very curious. I remember myself and Elavor being in the worst shape, and Ran, Varen, Kiran, and her Highness the Princess handing most of the hand-to-hand against those blackguards. The Princess in particular impressed me with her prowess." He smiles at her. "Remarkable woman, that. Much like her mother." He says warmly.
"After that the gnolls came. I didn't dare get too close to the beasts given my rather delicate state at the time, but I did notice that they seemed particularly interested in Princess Opal. I remained behind the wagon until the fight was over. I myself inspected the halfling archer, who, as my companions mentioned, was dressed in the colors of House Marshfield. My family has some peripheral engagement with their House. You may have heard of my sister Lavinia, who is a rather renowned...." Seeing the stern looks of the others, Ronegan trails off, abruptly returning to the subject.
"Ahem. Well, as I was saying, while all this was going on, m'colleagues shifted the tree enough for what remained of our party to make it through." He pauses and looks at the Grand Inquisitor very pointedly. "I do take issue with your use of the word 'succeed' in thwarting the attacks. Much was lost in saving the lives we did. Members of the household who have been serving his Highness and family for years. As Opal and Onyx know from my lessons, or rather they should know..." he winks at them "there really is no such thing as a completely successful battle. I would be happy to provide you with a similar lecture, Grand Inquisitor Tigana."
OOC: everyone's doing great! Haha posted at the same time. We'll just say this came before ..
As Tigana listens she holds her hands together steepling her fingers as she nods but not reacting with the same shock and awe as the crowd assembled. When Varen displays the house regalia the courtiers erupt and have to be quieted down by the grand inquisitor. She doesn't address anyone of you yet but gestures at Ronegan to continue.
Varen cannot read Tigana but Jubel looks very concerned about the direction of the questioning. He keeps looking distractedly towards someone with a hood up near the front of the clergy before leaning towards his companion, a human man you heard Ronegan call Zala, who's face is scarred and unreadable as Jubel whispers to him.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Ronegan stands between Ran and Kiran, and the two men are able to see Ronegan's fists clenched at his sides, clenched so tight that his knuckles appear white. Ronegan had such contempt for these people, those who claim to be pursuing knowledge, but in the halfling's eyes, seemed to be pursuing knowledge to punish, not protect.
When it is his turn to speak, his countenance and manner change completely, and everyone in the household that hears him can tell that Ronegan has slipped into schoolmaster mode -- the same tone, voice and cadence he's used for the twins' lectures for all those years.
"I must confess, I was caught completely surprised by the archers. I was in the wagon with his Highness and Petal, and before I knew it, I was struck three times" he gestures to his thigh, shoulder and belly. "As a halfling of some learning, I was quite interested in the experience of being struck with an arrow. It was rather cold, you know? Very different than I imagined. One would think that the warmth of the blood, the pain would be overwhelming. That was not the case. Very curious. I remember myself and Elavor being in the worst shape, and Ran, Varen, Kiran, and her Highness the Princess handing most of the hand-to-hand against those blackguards. The Princess in particular impressed me with her prowess." He smiles at her. "Remarkable woman, that. Much like her mother." He says warmly.
"After that the gnolls came. I didn't dare get too close to the beasts given my rather delicate state at the time, but I did notice that they seemed particularly interested in Princess Opal. I remained behind the wagon until the fight was over. I myself inspected the halfling archer, who, as my companions mentioned, was dressed in the colors of House Marshfield. My family has some peripheral engagement with their House. You may have heard of my sister Lavinia, who is a rather renowned...." Seeing the stern looks of the others, Ronegan trails off, abruptly returning to the subject.
"Ahem. Well, as I was saying, while all this was going on, m'colleagues shifted the tree enough for what remained of our party to make it through." He pauses and looks at the Grand Inquisitor very pointedly. "I do take issue with your use of the word 'succeed' in thwarting the attacks. Much was lost in saving the lives we did. Members of the household who have been serving his Highness and family for years. As Opal and Onyx know from my lessons, or rather they should know..." he winks at them "there really is no such thing as a completely successful battle. I would be happy to provide you with a similar lecture, Grand Inquisitor Tigana."
OOC: Because my partner is awesome they surprised me by YOLO'ing from work to be my driver today I get to play make believe before my torture...I mean tests...
OOC: ZING....Ronegan zing...
"As a student of history myself I think I would consider your seemingly vast knowledge a boon master Gallowglass if not for the testimony given against you and the complacency in it of one of my own which..." she glances at Kiran, "I think pales in comparison to any truth that comes now. You all stand here now accused of hersey or complacency in that hersey. You committed or witnessed heresy yet it remained unchecked until now," she says as the courtroom fills again with murmurs and some people shouting.
Witch....burn them...They may not have known. Redeem them...show them the Light!
All quiet down when Tigana raises her gloved hands. "These companions who used the same magic that feeds the Darkness that we do diligently fight. These so called enemies," the grand inquisitor counters using the word enemies like it's a joke, "that all other houses were able to escape without the aid of the Darkness itself..." she adds while more gasps fill the room with more calls for retribution!
Before anyone can interject Tigana raises a hand to quiet the crowd again as a man seated in the front row of the clergy stands up. The party sees Pytr from the house guard pulling his hood, which looks like those of the minor clergy, off. His hair is shaved off and his expression seems gaunt almost horrowed looking. He stares daggers at Ronegan, Petal, and King Onyx which the grand inquisitor nods to Pytr as she paces but stops in front of princess Opal.
"Will the princess tell those gathered here today who this man is," Tigana asks Opal who nods her expression still distraught.
"His name is Pytr Rockland and he's been a member of the Firstforge house guard for three years," Opal replies. "He abandoned us in Grambler..." She tries to interject but Tigana holds up a gloved hand to stop her.
"Pious Rockland," Tigana says to Pytr who seems happy in his new title adjusting his brand new white robes of the church as she addresses him. "Tell us what you saw that day on the road," she says next looking over the party as the man speaks her eyes heavy on Petal.
Pytr tells all. The use of heretical magic by Ronegan, Petal, Onyx, and the queen!! The horse he describes in full detail as if it was The biggest abomination of all! The courtroom fills with outrage as members of the Queen's family amongst the courtiers shout down from the gallery that it's all scurrilous lies! Tigana seems smug but the grand inquisitor continues her pursuit.
"Princess Opal is what this man says true," Tigana asks Opal who's visibly shaking now but is staring forward not looking at any of you.
"Yes," Opal says but it's more of a cry than an answer.
When Onyx tries to console her however Opal recoils from her twin brother as if he's filthy...unwanted!
"Yes...yes there there," grand inquisitor Tigana says to Opal coming up to her and taking her hands. Opal accepts the comfort from Tigana. "You are stronger now than before. The Light will shine upon these truths and your father...may he be at peace...will not have died in vane," she adds as Opal is helped down from the platform by two members of the clergy whisked away from the room!
Onyx stands stock still his expression a mix of grief and confusion as the grand inquisitor rounds on him and the party.
"What do any of you have to say about these truths that you failed to mention? Knowing omission is the same as lying to this court," Tigana says shifting her gaze from Petal to Kiran.
Onyx looks shell shocked by his sister's reaction and removal from the court and does not speak.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
"Whatever any of them did... whatever any of us did... we did to save life. To protect it. None of the people in this line is guilty of having evil within them. All of them are good, honest people, who only want to preserve life and live their lives. We were attacked, and some of us reacted the only way we knew. Their reactions saved lives, that's all that should matter... "Elavor says abruptly, surprising even himself by making direct eye contact with the Inquisitor.
He takes a deep steadying breath. "We told the truth of the events as they occurred to us. I don't know a lot about magic, but One would think life saving abilities wouldn't be outlawed in a society that honors life and light..."
Elavor then averts his gaze, stepping back a little into himself, and exhaling... his nerves are so wound that he winds up crossing his arms to prevent anyone from seeing his visible shaking.
Petal speaks up, “I thought you said to keep it brief?” She earnestly asks of the inquisitor. “If I were to explain how I was able to turn into a horse, my story would start well before my lifetime. My people have nurtured the land for much of it’s lifetime, and now that the darkness has poisoned it.... we’re dying off. If those that can speak with the earth could be shown the way of the lightbringer, maybe we could help in the fight against the darkness? I thought you were all about redemption? We all could be great assets to the Lightbringer! Ronegan is the smartest man I know, the King and Queen Mother are great leaders, inspiring the loyalty of so many. Do you really want to fill the church with traitorous slime like Pytr over here? Yes, we’ve used magic - it’s in our blood, like a poison. Teach us to treat it, save us.”
Ronegan remains silent, watching where they took Opal out of the room, scratching his head speculatively. He looks up at Ran. There was much he wanted to discuss with the military man, not least, the sudden change that has seemed to come over the Princess. Now, however, was not the time.
Instead, however, he smiles wanly at Petal as the Gnome speaks. After she finishes, Ronegan speaks again. Dropping his teacherly affect, he speaks slowly in a cold, methodical voice, looking directly at the Grand Inquisitor as he does so.
"None of the others knew about my abilities before the attack, nor I about the others who stand accused. We simply used our abilities to protect the others, including the previous King, may the Lightbringer protect his soul. All of the others," he gestures to Varen, Elavor, Ran, and then finally Kiran, "did not act immediately because they were trying to figure out to whom they could place their trust. In such an event that these attacks were orchestrated..." He lets the thought hang, then, unable to help himself adds "The very fact that we are here in being "investigated" while no visible moves have been made to find those responsible for the attacks on all our houses, the kidnapping and murder of so many. Perhaps their mistrust was warranted."
"As for myself, I do not share Petal's desires. I fear Darkness, just as much as you do. But my fear does not lead me to shut it down, shut it out and try to banish it and harness myself to the Lightbringer. Not this...perversion that seems to have taken hold. This fear of knowledge that poisons your lives. My fear leads me to try to understand it, to attempt to...figure some way to help protect all those I care about from its effects. I do not deny the greatness of the Lightbringer and his works. My own brother, of whom I am very proud, is a cleric of the Lightbringer and holds the faith very dear. However, I will not apologize for who I am, or what I fight for. I fight for a world of reason, a world where progress and knowledge can lead to the happiness and safety of all, where magic is studied and understood as a tool against darkness."
He finishes, looking first at the Grand Inquisitor, then at Baelfire, then finally his companions. "Judge me however you like. The others beside me are good and true people, though and I hold anyone who judges them otherwise in the highest contempt."
Ran listens to the others and the inquisitor, slowly processing everything that has been said and not said.
He now finally understands what one of his commanders had said about your life changing in a moment and everything you thought you wanted changing in the blink of an eye.
He had thought he knew where he was headed. Rise up the ranks a little and get a piece of land for his own, small manor and village, a wife, a few kids, lord of the valley and an end to the fighting.
But that idle fantasy was gone. He saw his future with laser focus.He would carve a kingdom out of the wilds. A safe haven for those like Petal and Ronegan. When they were safe he would come back and bring this church to its knees.
“Why pretend this is an inquisition? You have made up your mind. Be done with the charade and speak plainly.You are scared. Scared to your core. Scared that this Darkness is back and there’s nothing you can do about it. Scared that means your hold on the people will slip away. Why put up with the hate you spew if you can’t even protect them. Bah. Be done with this.”
"You will all submit and be redeemed or be destroyed," the grand inquisitor says leveling her eyes on Ronegan her tone even and her expression devoid of emotion. Looking to Elavor she sneers. "I would die...die rather than conjuring magic that I know calls to the Darkness...feeds it," she adds firmly almost like a preacher at a pulpit. "It's these sacrilegious acts against the Lightbringer that turn them away from us that allows the Darkness to feed to grow strong to return! This arcane profane magic that sickens and wastes this country and the people. Do you not see how your conjuring called the Darkness to claim your king's life?" She says walking away from Ronegan and Elavor now standing in front of Onyx. "You sullied the name of Firstforge with your conjuring and brought death to your father as did your mother with her arcane meddling! The church does not recognize your claim to the throne of Bhil Durahl," she finishes as gasps of shocked echo around the room as well as shouts of disapproval.
"Stay your judgments! Your words are hollow and do not reach the ears of anyone fit to take his claim! This was to be an inquest, not a trial," Jubel's voice echos in the chamber louder than it ought to pulling all eyes to him as he stands up. "They will leave this chamber with me and with every title afforded to them by the laws of this land...laws that can not be ignored because of acts you have deemed treasonious! They could not foresee the consequences for as master Ronegan said you've kept this knowledge to yourself. All may be redeemed in the Light that is what the high king, as well as your superiors, have taught us. Have you no mercy in your heart to truly hear these people? I don't think you have heard a single word they have said," he finishes moving from his seat and exiting the viewing gallery trailed behind by Zala, Juno, and Esrah.
As his knights assemble throwing off robes to reveal hidden arms and armor the defenders of the faith seemingly show a split loyalty to Jubel and the church as the inquisitor seems taken aback clutching her chest and looking worried as if she's already been attacked!
"You are just as unnatural as they are," Tigana spits as Jubel raises a hand making a gesture for her to be silent which suddenly she is everyone sees her grasping her throat trying to speak but nothing is coming out!
"This is where we leave your highness," Jubel says to Onyx who nods looking at the grand inquisitor then back to Jubel. "This inquest has concluded for the day," he says motioning for the party to follow as Idemaih uses her imposing presence, wings still at her sides, to keep the door behind you all free of anyone who would block it.
As the loyal church defenders begin to stand up, however, Pytr included, Zala and Esrah remove their swords in a ready stance.
"They seem as deaf as she was," Zala says in a raspy voice of a battle-hardened warrior. "You think I cut off their ears it won't much harm them," he says with a smirk to Esrah grimacing at them as most of the defenders take steps away from him as Esrah sighs.
"Humility in all things brother," Esrah says. "I am sure they are wise enough to let us pass," the bronze-scaled dragonborn says with a broad toothy smile that would to some seem menacing as well!
Once all of you are safe in the aisle walking towards the exit Jubel, Idemiah, and Zala walk behind creating a wall between your party and the inquisitor still trying to speak. Her face is red and her expression is of loathing so you can only assume she is still trying to call for violence!
"Have a care," Jubel begins looking over the remaining clergy and courtiers dumbfounded in their seats. "We all deserve redemption in the Light as well as the right to defend ourselves and those we love against those who would harm us tangible and intangible. If they come for one of us...they'll eventually come for all of us," he adds next moving the party out and into the long hallway that leads to the holding chamber you paused in before.
"Where...where will we go," Onyx asks dumbfounded still about what just took place. "They...they have my mother and sister," he adds next his expression redden and angry.
"They can not run you from your apartments King Onyx you are here by the requestion of the high king and the other royal houses. I don't know what kind of authority that harpy thinks she has but I can assure you there are limits to her witch hunter's reach," Jubel explains as a ripple of nods seems to filter over the seven paladins now surrounding the party. "Come...let us ready for the tournament. We all need to stand in our events or we will forfeit the right," he adds next nodding to each of you before ushering you on through a side doorway and not into the chamber where you originally waited to be seen.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
"T---thank you, Lord Baelfire," Ronegan stutters a bit, obviously taken more than a bit aback by this clear ripple of dissent in the Church of the Lightbringer, and maybe perhaps judging the Champion a little bit differently. The man's utility with magic, whatever its origin, impressed Ronegan as did his whole manner. He could see how the human had carved such a following...
"The apartments and anywhere in the presence of the High King is safe, but...is elsewhere?" Ronegan looks worried. "I fear for our ability to protect ourselves if we are not able to investigate these threats further."
As Opal is ushered out, Varen looks at her with an expression of both sadness and betrayal. "Why?" she mouths if she catches the Princess's attention.
After leaving the hall, Varen assesses Jubel and his fellow paladins. "I do not know what we have done to earn your favor, Ser Balefire, but I thank you."She looks back towards the door leading to the inquisition hall, speaking with disdain. "That... woman... would cut the nose to spite the face. She had no interest in the truth of the matter, or of threats that affect us all. She would rather us all burn so that she could be the most righteous person left standing. Bah! What value is there to lording over ash and ruin?"
She goes quiet a moment, then looks back at Jubel, speaking more reservedly. "Is the Lightbringer best served by those who rule with fear and a hot branding iron, or those that invite the weary in from the cold night to share the warmth of a hearth and meal?"
Ran lets the others ask Jubel questions, interested as much in how he answers as to what he says. This one may have his own reasons for helping us. Ran does move over to Onyx.
"Your majesty, I don't think you should spend more time here than is necessary. I understand the importance of this tournament, but I think you would be safer at home, far from the reaches of that inquisitor. I would counsel leaving as soon as it is over," Ran says in a quiet voice.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
Cha save: 2
Petal Adv Cha Save - 12
Gilgin Hardhammer - Mountain Dwarf Cleric (Forge Domain) - Icewind Dale
Petal - Forest Gnome Druid (Circle of the Land - Forest) - Unsung Heroes of Embera
The party stands with the twins all having been effected by the zone of truth feel an oddly warm sensation. From the clergy a woman steps out. She's wearing brilliant white robes trimmed with gold and a golden circlet on her head. Her hair is black but flecked with gray at her temples. From where the party stands only Kiran and the twins recognize this woman. This is grand inquisitor Tigana Pentaghast, a human, who looks to be in her late middle-age. Her expression is curious as she walks from one end of the platform you're all standing on together.
"You are the last house to be called today to give evidence on the attacks made against you on the road to Ospel. We ask your testimony be brief but accurate to the events that occurred three days ago," she adds. Her voice resonates throughout the room and no one else seems to utter a word as she speaks. "I am Tigana Pentaghast the grand inquisitor of our court of the Lightbringer. May nothing but truth pass your lips," she adds her robes sweep the ground as she approaches the center of the group nearest to Kiran. "What happened on the day of the attacks inquisitor Hallowedsworn," she asks her stern expression baring down on him. "Who were your assailants and what manner of beasts aided them? How did you as well as your companions succeed in thwarting the attackers when so many other houses were not," she asks Kiran these rapid fire questions without breaking to let him answer her expression unreadable before she glares at him.
Then Onyx attempts to speak but she holds up a gloved hand to stop him. Before she can begin again how ever the crowd within the clergy begins to chatter as a figure rises up to their feet.
"This is an inquiry into the attacks not a trial," Jubel Baelfire calls out standing from the clergy section wearing robes and not armor. "Its a wonder anyone survived the attacks? Are we now to chide this house for success when the consequence for failure was death? I believe the grand inquisitor should choose her questions with empathy if she is to continue," the paladin adds as a murmur of approval as well as jeers of derision are also heard in the court room.
"Yes, yes...of course," Tigana says nodding. "I apologize for any implications of fault," she adds with a slight smirk before composing her expression bowing slightly to Onyx and waving off Jubel. The paladin retakes his seat but he more visible in the crowd of white and gold as well as his knights now more clearly visible amongst the clergy all in robes too only Idemiah and Esrah seem to be armed and armored.
"So, what did you see during the attack," Tigana Pentaghast asks staring straight into your eyes as she speaks.
OOC: This is the question she puts to each of you. I will roll a straight d20 to see the order from Kiran, who I want to go first, will go building on the testimony of each of you to the last person without anyone getting advantage other than the dice Gods. If your PC gets the same number whoever can post first just post. Try to keep it to what you honestly remembered. Try not to go back into the thread. Good luck!
Order
Kiran is #1
Varen 8
Elavor 9
Petal 13
Ronegan 8
Ran 13
OOC: also tell me who you're standing by on the platform. Imagine a line but you're all facing the groups of people in the court room.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
Kiran would be standing at one end of the line and responds to the questions calmly without showing any expression, his gaze focused in the distance rather than on his questioner, "We were attacked in a well-planned ambush by ruffians who appeared to be masquerading as members of the other Houses, though their uniforms were notably second-hand or worn, indicating they were not current members. When our skills in combat were able to take down several of them, a group of gnolls charged in on horseback and attacked as well. We were able to focus our attacks on them as we'd driven off most of the other attackers and managed to take them down quickly. To address your earlier question as to how we were able to drive them off, I'd have thought that obvious, though we did suffer casualties, we had a number of trained and skilled warriors amongst us, including myself. I, myself, was trained by the church in the art of combat, why would you be surprised that it was enough to fend off those who would stand against us?"
Ran remains still as the dead while he listens to the grand inquisitor's questions and then Kiran's answer. His only movement is to look down at the two on either side of him, Petal and Ronegan. He's started feeling protective of Petal. Her performance when they went to the barracks and her bravery last night have changed how he sees her. She's not a child and in most ways far more adult than he is. But her small size still makes him want to keep her from harm. He was surprised to see Ronegan on the other side of him. He and Elavor always seem in the middle of discussing something but it appears that something happened last night that has them less talkative with each other.
When Kiran is finished speaking, Ran stares straight at the inquisitor. If she'd meant to throw him off his plan of simple straight forward answers, she'd succeeded.
"You've never been in battle, have you?" Ran asks her. "If you had, you would never have called what happened success. We left home with close to three dozen, including the royal family. After the ambush, we had, what, a third of that number. No one loses two thirds of their comrades and calls it success. It was a bloody massacre. The only reason we're standing here before you is because of the bravery and resolve of the men and women of Firstforge. By all rights, we should all be dead. Whoever put that ambush together knew what they were doing. Tree down to block the road. Forest on either side. Horses hitched to carriages and wagons. There was no way to run. Crossbowmen on our sides and flanks. Raiders mixed in with travelers on the road ahead. But the Firstforge guard stood strong. They collapsed around the royal family and kept them alive. That left those of us who could fight free reign to race out to cut the crossbowmen down and even the odds. We withstood that first onslaught but not their call for reinforcements. Like the junior inquisitor here said, a reserve group of gnolls raced in on horseback as the second wave. All I had time for from the moment I was on the edges fighting the crossbowmen and then the gnolls was to hack, and slash, and defend and slash again until there was no one left in front of me. Once I realized it was over I turned back and saw the carnage. Over twenty men and women of the house guard lying dead on the ground. That's not success. That's failure. Whoever did this is smart. And one evil bastard."
Petal looks nervously up at Ran up on her right as he finishes speaking. She glances at a Varen on her left to see if she will talk first so she can hide away before a wave of courage takes over her.
“Ran told it as it is m’lady. I was on the wagon with Ronegan and the King.... I mean, he wasn’t king at the time, he was prince and his father was King but I was with the current King... King Onyx. Well, I was looking at how pretty the landscape was - I’ve been cooped up in the stronghold at Bhil Durahl for a long long time and the air was quite refreshing. When the archers attacked, I may have been a bit foolish, I ran towards one of them hoping to draw fire from the king. I don’t know where this archer was from, but I don’t think they are as accustomed to the wilderness as I. The ground beneath their feet turned out to be as much an enemy to them as any of us. When I looked behind me, Ronegan, Elavor and the King were taking cover behind the wagon. I joined them, concerned for their safety as the Gnolls attacked and when I looked over the wagon.... they were all done with.
Gilgin Hardhammer - Mountain Dwarf Cleric (Forge Domain) - Icewind Dale
Petal - Forest Gnome Druid (Circle of the Land - Forest) - Unsung Heroes of Embera
Varen stands on the other side of Petal from Ran, and Kiran on the opposite side. She watches as the others give their testimony, glancing to the crowd at Jubel as Ran speaks, trying to get a feel for what the paladin thinks of the testimony up to that point. As Petal gives her accounting, she focuses on the Grand Inquisitor to determine what, if any, reaction the woman has -- does she seem even more suspicious of them? She wonders if she can pivot the questioning away from the specifics of battle before someone slips up and says something damning.
Insight (Jubel) 3
Insight (Grand Inquisitor) 4
OOC: If more appropriate, just take the first roll for both, but I figured two "targets" at two separate times.
"Had the first wave of crossbow bolts been slightly better aimed, you'd be trying to garner answers from a pile of corpses in the forest outside Grambler. We were lucky. I myself only took a glancing blow." Varen motions to the scored shoulderplate of her armor, where the bolt almost sank true. "Princess Opal, Ran, and myself kept our mounts and were able to run down some of the brigands. Your inquisitor did a fine job in the melee, and he and I were able to turn the tide for the houseguard... though not after significant losses." She pauses, thinking about the guard who lost her brother.
Varen removes from her satchel the pieces of cloth she cut from the three bandit corpses, bearing the markings of Turco, Caelano, and Marshfield. She holds up the pieces in her right hand, the emblems clear to see for the crowd. "This is from the gear worn by the bandits. Three Great Houses potentially implicated if the ambush failed." She pauses for effect. "But! I don't believe it was an alliance of the other Kings to bring down Firstforge. I think we are being played by an outside force who wants to pit House against House in this critical time."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Elavor glances sideways down the line of his companions. He stands at the far end, next to Varen, yet giving her space. He knows he has to be honest, and he knows his companions are relying on him, this is no time for subterfuge. He takes a deep calming breath. Seeing as no one is speaking, he looks forward, towards the feet of the Grand Inquisitor and as he speaks, he ticks off the main points, thinking of the experience like he was trying to describe a treasure map...
"I traveled on my horse Dust next to the wagon that carried Petal, Ronegan, and his highness, Prince (now King) Onyx. The road that day was fairly uneventful, until we reached the tree lain across the road.
I've encountered road bandits before, usually those are attacks of desperation, poorly planned events with a couple of people. But this felt organized and planned, with more people.
We were attacked by archers first, I thought they were arrows initially, and then I later saw they were crossbow bolts. I shot an arrow, and quickly hid under the wagon, thinking this would be a safe place. Ronegan and his highness were there. I didn't see much from under there, and eventually I gathered enough courage to pop out and shoot an arrow again.
I believe I killed one of the bandits. The house guard were in full battle then, and I was full of confusion and anxiety. I lost track of where most of my companions were. I had not been in many battles like this. There were a lot of dead. I think I heard howling, or someone blowing a horn. I saw the gnolls, and I don't recall if I threw my daggers at one of them or a remaining bandit. I recall throwing them. And retrieving them from a corpse.
I searched the body, but I didn't find anything identifiable like Varen related. The rest of my companions had fought much more valiantly than I. I recall trying to get my horse, Dust, you'll remember, to help move the fallen tree. She spooked, she's not used to being asked to do those things... and I had to calm her down, but my nerves were in a bundle. Eventually, she calmed. And the others moved the tree.
I wasn't much help at all, and then we regrouped and made our way on the road."
Elavor takes another deep breath, calming himself. A drink would be wonderful right now...
Ronegan stands between Ran and Kiran, and the two men are able to see Ronegan's fists clenched at his sides, clenched so tight that his knuckles appear white. Ronegan had such contempt for these people, those who claim to be pursuing knowledge, but in the halfling's eyes, seemed to be pursuing knowledge to punish, not protect.
When it is his turn to speak, his countenance and manner change completely, and everyone in the household that hears him can tell that Ronegan has slipped into schoolmaster mode -- the same tone, voice and cadence he's used for the twins' lectures for all those years.
"I must confess, I was caught completely surprised by the archers. I was in the wagon with his Highness and Petal, and before I knew it, I was struck three times" he gestures to his thigh, shoulder and belly. "As a halfling of some learning, I was quite interested in the experience of being struck with an arrow. It was rather cold, you know? Very different than I imagined. One would think that the warmth of the blood, the pain would be overwhelming. That was not the case. Very curious. I remember myself and Elavor being in the worst shape, and Ran, Varen, Kiran, and her Highness the Princess handing most of the hand-to-hand against those blackguards. The Princess in particular impressed me with her prowess." He smiles at her. "Remarkable woman, that. Much like her mother." He says warmly.
"After that the gnolls came. I didn't dare get too close to the beasts given my rather delicate state at the time, but I did notice that they seemed particularly interested in Princess Opal. I remained behind the wagon until the fight was over. I myself inspected the halfling archer, who, as my companions mentioned, was dressed in the colors of House Marshfield. My family has some peripheral engagement with their House. You may have heard of my sister Lavinia, who is a rather renowned...." Seeing the stern looks of the others, Ronegan trails off, abruptly returning to the subject.
"Ahem. Well, as I was saying, while all this was going on, m'colleagues shifted the tree enough for what remained of our party to make it through." He pauses and looks at the Grand Inquisitor very pointedly. "I do take issue with your use of the word 'succeed' in thwarting the attacks. Much was lost in saving the lives we did. Members of the household who have been serving his Highness and family for years. As Opal and Onyx know from my lessons, or rather they should know..." he winks at them "there really is no such thing as a completely successful battle. I would be happy to provide you with a similar lecture, Grand Inquisitor Tigana."
OOC: everyone's doing great! Haha posted at the same time. We'll just say this came before ..
As Tigana listens she holds her hands together steepling her fingers as she nods but not reacting with the same shock and awe as the crowd assembled. When Varen displays the house regalia the courtiers erupt and have to be quieted down by the grand inquisitor. She doesn't address anyone of you yet but gestures at Ronegan to continue.
Varen cannot read Tigana but Jubel looks very concerned about the direction of the questioning. He keeps looking distractedly towards someone with a hood up near the front of the clergy before leaning towards his companion, a human man you heard Ronegan call Zala, who's face is scarred and unreadable as Jubel whispers to him.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
OOC: Because my partner is awesome they surprised me by YOLO'ing from work to be my driver today I get to play make believe before my torture...I mean tests...
OOC: ZING....Ronegan zing...
"As a student of history myself I think I would consider your seemingly vast knowledge a boon master Gallowglass if not for the testimony given against you and the complacency in it of one of my own which..." she glances at Kiran, "I think pales in comparison to any truth that comes now. You all stand here now accused of hersey or complacency in that hersey. You committed or witnessed heresy yet it remained unchecked until now," she says as the courtroom fills again with murmurs and some people shouting.
Witch....burn them...They may not have known. Redeem them...show them the Light!
All quiet down when Tigana raises her gloved hands. "These companions who used the same magic that feeds the Darkness that we do diligently fight. These so called enemies," the grand inquisitor counters using the word enemies like it's a joke, "that all other houses were able to escape without the aid of the Darkness itself..." she adds while more gasps fill the room with more calls for retribution!
Before anyone can interject Tigana raises a hand to quiet the crowd again as a man seated in the front row of the clergy stands up. The party sees Pytr from the house guard pulling his hood, which looks like those of the minor clergy, off. His hair is shaved off and his expression seems gaunt almost horrowed looking. He stares daggers at Ronegan, Petal, and King Onyx which the grand inquisitor nods to Pytr as she paces but stops in front of princess Opal.
"Will the princess tell those gathered here today who this man is," Tigana asks Opal who nods her expression still distraught.
"His name is Pytr Rockland and he's been a member of the Firstforge house guard for three years," Opal replies. "He abandoned us in Grambler..." She tries to interject but Tigana holds up a gloved hand to stop her.
"Pious Rockland," Tigana says to Pytr who seems happy in his new title adjusting his brand new white robes of the church as she addresses him. "Tell us what you saw that day on the road," she says next looking over the party as the man speaks her eyes heavy on Petal.
Pytr tells all. The use of heretical magic by Ronegan, Petal, Onyx, and the queen!! The horse he describes in full detail as if it was The biggest abomination of all! The courtroom fills with outrage as members of the Queen's family amongst the courtiers shout down from the gallery that it's all scurrilous lies! Tigana seems smug but the grand inquisitor continues her pursuit.
"Princess Opal is what this man says true," Tigana asks Opal who's visibly shaking now but is staring forward not looking at any of you.
"Yes," Opal says but it's more of a cry than an answer.
When Onyx tries to console her however Opal recoils from her twin brother as if he's filthy...unwanted!
"Yes...yes there there," grand inquisitor Tigana says to Opal coming up to her and taking her hands. Opal accepts the comfort from Tigana. "You are stronger now than before. The Light will shine upon these truths and your father...may he be at peace...will not have died in vane," she adds as Opal is helped down from the platform by two members of the clergy whisked away from the room!
Onyx stands stock still his expression a mix of grief and confusion as the grand inquisitor rounds on him and the party.
"What do any of you have to say about these truths that you failed to mention? Knowing omission is the same as lying to this court," Tigana says shifting her gaze from Petal to Kiran.
Onyx looks shell shocked by his sister's reaction and removal from the court and does not speak.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
"Whatever any of them did... whatever any of us did... we did to save life. To protect it. None of the people in this line is guilty of having evil within them. All of them are good, honest people, who only want to preserve life and live their lives. We were attacked, and some of us reacted the only way we knew. Their reactions saved lives, that's all that should matter... " Elavor says abruptly, surprising even himself by making direct eye contact with the Inquisitor.
He takes a deep steadying breath. "We told the truth of the events as they occurred to us. I don't know a lot about magic, but One would think life saving abilities wouldn't be outlawed in a society that honors life and light..."
Elavor then averts his gaze, stepping back a little into himself, and exhaling... his nerves are so wound that he winds up crossing his arms to prevent anyone from seeing his visible shaking.
Petal speaks up, “I thought you said to keep it brief?” She earnestly asks of the inquisitor. “If I were to explain how I was able to turn into a horse, my story would start well before my lifetime. My people have nurtured the land for much of it’s lifetime, and now that the darkness has poisoned it.... we’re dying off. If those that can speak with the earth could be shown the way of the lightbringer, maybe we could help in the fight against the darkness? I thought you were all about redemption? We all could be great assets to the Lightbringer! Ronegan is the smartest man I know, the King and Queen Mother are great leaders, inspiring the loyalty of so many. Do you really want to fill the church with traitorous slime like Pytr over here? Yes, we’ve used magic - it’s in our blood, like a poison. Teach us to treat it, save us.”
Gilgin Hardhammer - Mountain Dwarf Cleric (Forge Domain) - Icewind Dale
Petal - Forest Gnome Druid (Circle of the Land - Forest) - Unsung Heroes of Embera
Ronegan remains silent, watching where they took Opal out of the room, scratching his head speculatively. He looks up at Ran. There was much he wanted to discuss with the military man, not least, the sudden change that has seemed to come over the Princess. Now, however, was not the time.
Instead, however, he smiles wanly at Petal as the Gnome speaks. After she finishes, Ronegan speaks again. Dropping his teacherly affect, he speaks slowly in a cold, methodical voice, looking directly at the Grand Inquisitor as he does so.
"None of the others knew about my abilities before the attack, nor I about the others who stand accused. We simply used our abilities to protect the others, including the previous King, may the Lightbringer protect his soul. All of the others," he gestures to Varen, Elavor, Ran, and then finally Kiran, "did not act immediately because they were trying to figure out to whom they could place their trust. In such an event that these attacks were orchestrated..." He lets the thought hang, then, unable to help himself adds "The very fact that we are here in being "investigated" while no visible moves have been made to find those responsible for the attacks on all our houses, the kidnapping and murder of so many. Perhaps their mistrust was warranted."
"As for myself, I do not share Petal's desires. I fear Darkness, just as much as you do. But my fear does not lead me to shut it down, shut it out and try to banish it and harness myself to the Lightbringer. Not this...perversion that seems to have taken hold. This fear of knowledge that poisons your lives. My fear leads me to try to understand it, to attempt to...figure some way to help protect all those I care about from its effects. I do not deny the greatness of the Lightbringer and his works. My own brother, of whom I am very proud, is a cleric of the Lightbringer and holds the faith very dear. However, I will not apologize for who I am, or what I fight for. I fight for a world of reason, a world where progress and knowledge can lead to the happiness and safety of all, where magic is studied and understood as a tool against darkness."
He finishes, looking first at the Grand Inquisitor, then at Baelfire, then finally his companions. "Judge me however you like. The others beside me are good and true people, though and I hold anyone who judges them otherwise in the highest contempt."
He falls silent, looking downward.
Ran listens to the others and the inquisitor, slowly processing everything that has been said and not said.
He now finally understands what one of his commanders had said about your life changing in a moment and everything you thought you wanted changing in the blink of an eye.
He had thought he knew where he was headed. Rise up the ranks a little and get a piece of land for his own, small manor and village, a wife, a few kids, lord of the valley and an end to the fighting.
But that idle fantasy was gone. He saw his future with laser focus.He would carve a kingdom out of the wilds. A safe haven for those like Petal and Ronegan. When they were safe he would come back and bring this church to its knees.
“Why pretend this is an inquisition? You have made up your mind. Be done with the charade and speak plainly.You are scared. Scared to your core. Scared that this Darkness is back and there’s nothing you can do about it. Scared that means your hold on the people will slip away. Why put up with the hate you spew if you can’t even protect them. Bah. Be done with this.”
"You will all submit and be redeemed or be destroyed," the grand inquisitor says leveling her eyes on Ronegan her tone even and her expression devoid of emotion. Looking to Elavor she sneers. "I would die...die rather than conjuring magic that I know calls to the Darkness...feeds it," she adds firmly almost like a preacher at a pulpit. "It's these sacrilegious acts against the Lightbringer that turn them away from us that allows the Darkness to feed to grow strong to return! This arcane profane magic that sickens and wastes this country and the people. Do you not see how your conjuring called the Darkness to claim your king's life?" She says walking away from Ronegan and Elavor now standing in front of Onyx. "You sullied the name of Firstforge with your conjuring and brought death to your father as did your mother with her arcane meddling! The church does not recognize your claim to the throne of Bhil Durahl," she finishes as gasps of shocked echo around the room as well as shouts of disapproval.
"Stay your judgments! Your words are hollow and do not reach the ears of anyone fit to take his claim! This was to be an inquest, not a trial," Jubel's voice echos in the chamber louder than it ought to pulling all eyes to him as he stands up. "They will leave this chamber with me and with every title afforded to them by the laws of this land...laws that can not be ignored because of acts you have deemed treasonious! They could not foresee the consequences for as master Ronegan said you've kept this knowledge to yourself. All may be redeemed in the Light that is what the high king, as well as your superiors, have taught us. Have you no mercy in your heart to truly hear these people? I don't think you have heard a single word they have said," he finishes moving from his seat and exiting the viewing gallery trailed behind by Zala, Juno, and Esrah.
As his knights assemble throwing off robes to reveal hidden arms and armor the defenders of the faith seemingly show a split loyalty to Jubel and the church as the inquisitor seems taken aback clutching her chest and looking worried as if she's already been attacked!
"You are just as unnatural as they are," Tigana spits as Jubel raises a hand making a gesture for her to be silent which suddenly she is everyone sees her grasping her throat trying to speak but nothing is coming out!
"This is where we leave your highness," Jubel says to Onyx who nods looking at the grand inquisitor then back to Jubel. "This inquest has concluded for the day," he says motioning for the party to follow as Idemaih uses her imposing presence, wings still at her sides, to keep the door behind you all free of anyone who would block it.
As the loyal church defenders begin to stand up, however, Pytr included, Zala and Esrah remove their swords in a ready stance.
"They seem as deaf as she was," Zala says in a raspy voice of a battle-hardened warrior. "You think I cut off their ears it won't much harm them," he says with a smirk to Esrah grimacing at them as most of the defenders take steps away from him as Esrah sighs.
"Humility in all things brother," Esrah says. "I am sure they are wise enough to let us pass," the bronze-scaled dragonborn says with a broad toothy smile that would to some seem menacing as well!
Once all of you are safe in the aisle walking towards the exit Jubel, Idemiah, and Zala walk behind creating a wall between your party and the inquisitor still trying to speak. Her face is red and her expression is of loathing so you can only assume she is still trying to call for violence!
"Have a care," Jubel begins looking over the remaining clergy and courtiers dumbfounded in their seats. "We all deserve redemption in the Light as well as the right to defend ourselves and those we love against those who would harm us tangible and intangible. If they come for one of us...they'll eventually come for all of us," he adds next moving the party out and into the long hallway that leads to the holding chamber you paused in before.
"Where...where will we go," Onyx asks dumbfounded still about what just took place. "They...they have my mother and sister," he adds next his expression redden and angry.
"They can not run you from your apartments King Onyx you are here by the requestion of the high king and the other royal houses. I don't know what kind of authority that harpy thinks she has but I can assure you there are limits to her witch hunter's reach," Jubel explains as a ripple of nods seems to filter over the seven paladins now surrounding the party. "Come...let us ready for the tournament. We all need to stand in our events or we will forfeit the right," he adds next nodding to each of you before ushering you on through a side doorway and not into the chamber where you originally waited to be seen.
“But no living man am I! You look upon a woman...You stand between me and my lord and kin. Begone, if you be not deathless! For living or dark undead, I will smite you, if you touch him.” ― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King
"T---thank you, Lord Baelfire," Ronegan stutters a bit, obviously taken more than a bit aback by this clear ripple of dissent in the Church of the Lightbringer, and maybe perhaps judging the Champion a little bit differently. The man's utility with magic, whatever its origin, impressed Ronegan as did his whole manner. He could see how the human had carved such a following...
"The apartments and anywhere in the presence of the High King is safe, but...is elsewhere?" Ronegan looks worried. "I fear for our ability to protect ourselves if we are not able to investigate these threats further."
Elavor feels elated and relieved as they leave the room and make their way with Jubel... and then Jubel mentions the tournament.
"Right, the tournament... gods help us."
As Opal is ushered out, Varen looks at her with an expression of both sadness and betrayal. "Why?" she mouths if she catches the Princess's attention.
After leaving the hall, Varen assesses Jubel and his fellow paladins. "I do not know what we have done to earn your favor, Ser Balefire, but I thank you." She looks back towards the door leading to the inquisition hall, speaking with disdain. "That... woman... would cut the nose to spite the face. She had no interest in the truth of the matter, or of threats that affect us all. She would rather us all burn so that she could be the most righteous person left standing. Bah! What value is there to lording over ash and ruin?"
She goes quiet a moment, then looks back at Jubel, speaking more reservedly. "Is the Lightbringer best served by those who rule with fear and a hot branding iron, or those that invite the weary in from the cold night to share the warmth of a hearth and meal?"
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
Ran lets the others ask Jubel questions, interested as much in how he answers as to what he says. This one may have his own reasons for helping us. Ran does move over to Onyx.
"Your majesty, I don't think you should spend more time here than is necessary. I understand the importance of this tournament, but I think you would be safer at home, far from the reaches of that inquisitor. I would counsel leaving as soon as it is over," Ran says in a quiet voice.