Fantasy World Creations

[info]Aetius only.[/info]

You finally reached the city of Aldalom. It was a fairly large city on the south-western coast of the Korinthia Kingdom. It wasn't as large as Ternadan, where your guild makes its base, but it also served as perhaps the third or fourth largest city in the country. This was where you parents had supposedly ended up living after they sent you to train with the Order of the Light Eagle. At the very least, it was what the letter you held on to now claimed. You had little correspondence, if any, with your parents after all.

In your hands was that very letter that passed on to you by messenger bird, addressed to you directly by name.

It read:

To Aetius Synacus, once an elite soldier of the Light Eagle, and member of the prestigious Guild of Galas'nor, and firstborn of Varius Synacus.

My name is Killian Paltreth, a friend of your late father Varius. It is with great sorrow that I report that your parents have passed. I myself haven't been to Aldalom in a few months, which is why this news may be late. The city had already attempted to seize property, however, I was notified in time and made haste as soon as possible to stop the unwarranted proceedings. The city council require your presence, and you are requested to be in attendance to settle Varius' will and estate.

I will meet you at the town hall of Aldalom, on the 15th day of Traches, right before high noon.

-Killian Paltreth

You had been worried that you wouldn't make it in time for the meeting. But it was still sometime in the morning, and if you had to guess was right before noon. There were two guards posted at the entrance to the city underneath a large gate. They looked haggard, and as you approached them, you realized that they both seemed weary.

Aetius:

I choose to wander around the city for a good hour. I look at general citizens, try to look to see how safe things generally are attempt to locate city hall look for locations I could run to in the event of an ambush, generally do security sweeps.

(Roll Knowledge (local), 1d20+3
19

Although a large city, you knew of the rumours that abounded about the place.

Aldalon is an old city and no stranger to murder. Throughout its history, countless men, women, and children have met horrible ends in its darkened alleys, shaded tenements, and abandoned buildings. They choke on their own blood until their bodies surrender up their souls, but they never leave. Aldalon's dead linger. They dance in shadows at the edge of lantern-light. They peer between the cracks of creaking floorboards. Their phantom breath sends shivers down the spines of the living. No home in Absalom is without its haunts, ghosts, and whispers. The sounds of a weeping child from the attic in the dead of night, the moans of a tortured maid issuing from the basement of a crumbling manor, and the croaking rasp of a strangled man just beyond a bedroom window - all are heard for a moment amid a night's storm and then swallowed up by thunder or silence. Some dismiss them as fancy or imagination, but we know better. The dead lurk all around us, in air and shadow, between the walls and right at your back. They watch while you sleep, and wait, moaning in the dark, united in their tireless hatred of the living.

At least... that's what the rumours say. You haven't yet stepped into this city before, though your parents somehow chose this place, among all others, to settle in. As you wander around the city, both getting directions to the town hall, and getting an idea of how 'safe' the city is. You realize that almost everyone in this forsaken city seemed to have an aura of dread around them. They moved slow, as if depressed, and you can almost feel the somberness and the dismal aura the citizens cast off.

"Aetius?" The man asked as you walked in. "Aetius Synacus?"

Aetius:

I greet him with a hearty hello. "Why it does my heart well to see a friendly face in times like these and I greet you. However I pray you give me pardon as it feels like a lifetime since I have seen this place and my mind is racing, piecing together memories of old. I pray sir, what is your name?"

QuoteAh alright, so I assume Aldalon is now Aetius' home town where he grew up in as a kid before he was sent to training? In that case, I'll need to put more information in the description I had first give you above. I'll do that in my response below instead.

"Killian Paltreth at your service." He continued his smile - out of place compared with everyone else he had met in the city. He began to bow low, and after that stepped forward.

"My boy, I was afraid you didn't receive the letter, or worse yet, chose not to show up. Varius was proud you were serving as a soldier, though he never did show it much." He lowered his eyes. "You've heard the news, but they died a few months ago. I'm sorry you never had a chance to see them since. I only just recently arrived myself, so I haven't gotten the details from the magistrate yet. Though from what they've been telling me it was some sort of accident." He sipped into his flask.

"They were to meet us here, but they haven't yet appeared. Come sit my boy, tell me about your trip. The city still the same as you remember?"

From what you last remembered, the city had changed a lot. The people used to be a lot more jolly. Beldrin's Bluff, the section in town that looked over the edge of the city towards the ocean had since collapsed. From what some rumours you heard during your trip to find the Town Hall, you were told that an earthquake had brought down sections of the district down into the sea. Most people had abandoned Beldrin's Bluff, and for the most part, that section of town was deserted.

Once he had sat down, he proceeded to grab a tray filled with all sorts of food, and bring it closer to the both of you on the table.

"They left this here for us presumably. Though I chose not to partake of this delicious-looking meal until you had arrived of course." He picked up something that looked like a fried piece of chicken, examining it carefully with a discerning eye, but eventually popped it into his mouth.

"Mmm. Not as good as my chicken! But it's sweet, and crunchy too." He smiled even further as he proffered the other piece still on the tray. "Take some, what do you think?"

Aetius:

I quickly consider the old man's mannerisms and smell the chicken to insure it isn't poisoned. Something is triggering my perception that all is not as it seems. I continue to talk as I observe everything around me as well as to not give off the impression of stalling.( What should I roll?)
"Ahh I thank you for the letter. The walk here was nice. Twas nice and pleasant weather, and along the way I met many fine folks who told me stories of their lives and merriment. Yes the town really has changed it seems... drury. I hope you don't mind my father, if I may ask, how did you get to know him?"

As you consider Killian, you did not get any hunches about the person. He seems to be trustworthy, and you don't get a feeling that something odd is going on about him.

Aetius:

I let him continue speaking and eat a piece of chicken.

"Your father was a fellow juror." Killian explained, as he continued eating the chicken. "We knew each other for many years. Though I never did get a chance to meet you, Aetius. It might have been shortly after you were sent away in fact. We were both going through some hard times, financially specifically. He had told me that was part of the reason he had sent you away as well. Then one day the city was looking for some jurors, of course I snatched the job as soon as I heard, and brought your father in as well. It paid us well. And well-"

It was at this moment that Killian frowned. He scrunched up his eyebrows as he looked at the piece of chicken he ate. His eye grew alarmed, and he looked towards you, reaching his hand out for your shoulder.

But he never did make it, for soon enough his legs gave way, and he found himself falling, and losing consciousness fast.

As you began to reach out, you too felt a strange weakness in your legs, as your eyelids became heavier and heavier.

[info]I'll allow you one turn's worth of actions before you get knocked out, otherwise let me know if I should continue on to next scene[/info]

Aetius:

I yell out loudly into the town for anyone to hear my plee in the most firm and strong battle cry I can muster. " I am Aetius Synacus! The last surviving member of The order of The Golden Eagle. I have come to learn of my family name and the life that I cast aside to fight for what was right and defeat The Red Legion! I am now beset by a poison and request the aid of a champion to save me from the evils cast upon me! Do not forget me. Do not let my journey end here!" Then I smash my shield down hard and send out a strong glow from the eagle crest on the front of my tower shield.

You called out as your voice reverberated throughout the building. If there was someone here, they would hear. But your consciousness was fading fast, and you knew that it would be long until the fast-acting poison would overtake your senses. You felt your legs buckle under your weight, but before you lost complete consciousness, you heard some sort of shuffling, as if other people were coming in. You also heard some swearing, half a moment later.

(Roll another Fortitude)

------------

You clenched your fists as hard as you can, straining it and trying to feel the pain from the action, if only to continue to hold out longer. You continued hearing what sounded to be a weapon being drawn out, someone near you, you think, though at this point, you were already on the floor of the town hall, your consciousness fading fast.

(Roll another fortitude)

------------

You felt a kick, as a sudden sharp pain hit your side. You managed to stay conscious still, as your body fought against the poison, and your mind doing its best to keep alert and awake for as long as you possibly can. At that moment you heard a voice.

"Halt! What is the meaning of this?"

(Roll another fortitude)

------------

But it was that moment, that your body finally caved in against the relentless poison. You could hear or sense no more, and eventually you saw nothing but darkness with your mind shutting down as if going into a forced slumber.

You know not how long you were out. But in your mind's eye you begin tee a building; a courthouse. A leaning monument to the district's pain, this four-story courthouse is a crumbling marvel of cracked plaster and chipped marble. Once a testament to justice wrought in shining white stone, the courthouse is now a crushed dream, its wretched exterior corrupted by a bloated evil festering within. Rainwater from a recent downpour mixed with mulch oozes from ruptures in the rock like pus bubbling from a wound. The structure of the eastern wing of the upper floor buckled long ago, and now the bell tower tilts perilously, appearing as though it might careen to the ground below at any moment. Two massive pillars frame the heavy oak doors of the court. The pillars' surfaces run with cracks and fissures like so many burst veins. The doors sag in their archway like the drooping eyes of a madman. The surrounding structures long ago fell in upon themselves in supplication to the creaking courthouse. A salt wind blows up the precipice and rakes across the tangled weeds of Beldrin's Bluff. The whole building groans as the wind blows, its tortured lamentation fading to a rasping hiss as the wind ebbs. This croaking murmur never completely fades away. The sun sets in the west, the last slivers of twilight painting the courthouse blood red as darkness creeps closer.

As if time was warping, the vision suddenly changes. The courtroom is suddenly filled with people. The courtroom buzzes with nervous anticipation. Dozens of eyes, from the crowd behind you and the jurors' box across the aisle, focus on you. The expressions range from contempt to pity, but there is no forgiveness in their faces. The magistrate slams down his gavel repeatedly and snarls for silence. The murmur of the crowd relents as the stocky magistrate draws up to his full height, smoothing a silver beard with one hand as he sets down his gavel and focuses on you with shining green eyes.

"Jarbin Mord. For the brutal and savage slaying of your own wife and six-year-old boy, it is the verdict of this jury, with which I concur wholeheartedly, that you shall hang by your neck until dead. May the gods take mercy on your blackened soul."

The vision warps again.

A clack of wood on wood is followed by a whip crack of rope drawing taut. The crunch of vertebrae echoes off the walls. A man's booted feet twitch freakishly as his last breath rasps from his ruined throat in a choking death rattle. You suddenly realize the man is you, and you look down in horror at your own twitching legs. The crowd jeers with delight and laughs as you rasp your last.

Slowly, the vision fades away as you return to consciousness, but the sight that greets you is almost as disturbing. The dying gray light of sunset peeks through slits in the boarded windows, barely illuminating a yawning courtroom replete with pews and a towering bench covered in cobwebs. A shadowed mural on the domed ceiling above depicts Valtean, goddess of virtue, in her shining plate mail of gilded sunlight, locked in mortal combat with Galtan, Feralia, and Derull, holding the trifecta of evil at bay with her shining sword. You find yourself in a jurors' box, and you are not alone. In the other chairs, figures stir in the darkness, each emerging from troubling dreams into a new nightmare.

The courtroom you now sat in was very much like the one you had seen in your vision. Rows of dusty benches, several askew or knocked over, are lined behind a waist-high partition separating spectators from trials. A dusty wooden jurors' box, rickety from generations of termites and time's cruel fangs, stands against the south wall. A high bench covered in muslin rests against the east wall. Two thick tables once stood facing the bench, now one has been smashed to kindling. An evidence table rests against the south wall.

The figures in the darkness continue to stir, some of them gasping from their troubling nightmares.

Aetius:

I feel slowly for my equipment to make sure nothing was stolen from me. I also attempt to get a better sense of my surroundings. I want to know if there are people around me which are awake, find the old man, and see if others were drugged around me.

You went through your bag, as well as making a quick check of your gear. Thankfully you had everything, from the armor and weapons you carried, all the way to the basic survival gear you kept in your bag. At the very least, whoever poisoned you and moved you to this abandoned and decrepit courtroom, did not take anything.

You began taking a look at your surroundings. You sat on one of two rows of benches. To either side of you were other individuals as well. There was a male half orc, a male gnome wearing a jester's hat, a female human dressed in fine clothing with a noticeable fire-opal amulet, Killian Paltreth from earlier, though this time he sported what looked to be a gashing wound on his cheek, an imposing hobgoblin who looked to be heavily armed with a chain-like weapon, a male human with a stern and square-faced jaw who was too fully armored and armed, a comely female halfling who was soft on the eyes, and lastly a dwarf who blinked a couple of times trying to gather his senses. Altogether there were 9 of you in the room. Just like you, they too seemed groggy, though they all started to gather their senses about them.

It didn't take long for the hobgoblin in the group reach for his weapon, a beautifully crafted and long spiked chain, and brandish it.


"What in the-" The hobgoblin grunted as he held his weapon in front of him defensively. He had a rasping voice, almost feral, but normal for one of his kind. He immediately drew his eyes towards both you and the armored human, knowing full well that you and he were the most armed.

"I better be getting some answers." The hobgoblin stated. "Knocking me out means trouble." He let his threat hang in the air as he waited for someone to answer.

You see what looked to be an axe sitting on top of a table at the south-eastern corner of the room. On the eastern side of the room were the two podiums of the courtroom. To the north was a door. To the west looked to be a set of double doors as well as rows of benches. There was a set of prison bars separating where the audience watched to where the judge, jury, and the accused were placed.

Aetius:

(I want to roll to see if I feel confident that everyone here was drugged or also victims of kidnap.)
"You there. I was drugged and woke up here after a terrible nightmare in this place. It makes me feel at ease to have my weapons at my side and potential allies at my side to find our way out of this mess. Tell me. What is your name? What do you last remember before waking up here?"

"You're asking me the questions human?" The hobgoblin replied sharply and quickly. You notice him narrow his eyes as the hobgoblin began looking over the other people in the room. There was a hint of recognition in his eyes as he looked on at the others sitting on the bench. The others had already begun to stir, and it was the armored human who had been sitting down, reply next.


"Put the weapon away fool! Can you see that we're all in the same situation?" The armored man's voice was stern and stoic. But the hobgoblin didn't budge, and only sneered at him.

The others around you in the room seemed to be shaken, and more than a couple were still trying to get their bearings. The hobgoblin seemed genuinely afraid, and how he acted was reminiscent of a cornered rat. The armored human who had spoken had an air of superiority, and you see him put a hand on the hilt of his blade.

It was at this point that the older dwarf spoke up.


"Calm down ye lads!" The dwarf said, trying to raise his voice among the commotion. "It ain't gonna do us any good to pull out our weapons. Ya better take up the words of 'em humans."

The hobgoblin spat in response, but he did begin to put away his weapon. He turned towards you directly, as your eyes locked.

"Malgrim Hurkes." The hobgoblin finally said. "Grindle Street Shades. That familiar?"

(You can roll knowledge (local), 1d20+3, to see if you recognize the hobgoblin's name or 'Grindle Street Shades'.)

Aetius:

(I choose not to roll knowledge.)
I stand and hold myself in confidence and say proudly. "We are all victims of a common enemy. I suggest we work together for I will do all I can to ensure none of you fall here. Who's with me?" As I finish I ignite the crest on my shield and extend a hand to the nearest character on the ground.

The person who took you offered hand was the female human of the group. She had auburn red hair, and as your eyes met she managed a slight smile. She was older than the halfling woman in the group, but at the same time she had a more matured aura around her. Her eyes were piercing as she looked deploy into your own eyes. You immediately noticed the fire-opal amulet she wore around her neck, and combined with the tight-fitting light red silk it only added to her appeal.


"Listen to our brave warrior." She said, her voice was lilting, almost husky in its softness. With the offered hand she finally brought herself up standing beside you. You noticed she toyed with her amulet for a moment as she began looking at the others.

"As if listening will help us get out of here!" The new voice came from the halfling lady, who finally managed to get her bearings. But though her words were pessimistic, she did push herself over to you, marking both you and the armored male human as perhaps the two most reliable in the group.

The three others who had not yet spoken: the half-orc, the halfing with the jester's hat, and Killian remained sitting. As you looked at them closer, you noticed that Killian was still unconscious, as was both the half-orc and the jester halfling.

Aetius:

"We all need to play to our strengths. What are all of your skills?" I also ask, "Do any of you have any medical training? One of our unconscious members has a clear head wound. We should tend to them and try to rally our other unconscious members."

"Hey!" The hobgoblin said. "No one orders Malgrim around. What is an unnamed human like you going to do about it? Huh?"

The armored human resisted the impulse to pull out his sword and engage into combat.

"As much as your kind needs to be put down under the law and arrested, our friend here has a point. My name is Sir Rekkart Cole, knight and paladin of Valtean."" The tall and sturdy human announced proudly. He had white hair, though his square jaw and chiseled features told you that even in his old age, the old knight managed to stay fit and strong.

"I be called Tablark of clan Hammergrind." The thick accented voice came from the old dwarf. "Old Tablark knows a thing or two 'bout injuries. Let me take a look." With that, the dwarf moved over to three individuals who were still unconscious.

"I'll take a look too then. All my I've lived on the streets as an entertainer. I don't have any formal training... but I know enough to be a healer. I'm Madge." The halfling girl began moving towards the halfling with the jester's hat who was still unconscious.

The female human shook her head at the proceedings.

"Unfortunately I'll be of no help. I'm a sorcerer, though it's not something I do very often." The woman's voice continued to be soft and husky. "My name is Patrissa, and now that you know all of ours, what would yours be?"

Aetius:

"My name is Aetius Synacus. I was a soldier in the ranks of The Order of The Golden Eagle. My strength is in my shield." I look at the two of them. "Malgrim. Sir Rekkart. I appreciate your restraint even though you both feel at odds with each other. However we all are few and we could have an army of bandits or phantasms outside of this room." I walk around the room putting my hand on everyone's shoulder meeting their eyes and mustering a smile. "Our only chance to survive is to work together as some of us are still too incapacitated to fight. I suggest we all come up with a plan we'll each make a suggestion and then vote on the plan we see the most fit. Does this seem fair?"

It was the knight of Valtean, Sir Rekkart Cole that spoke next.

"Synacus? Your father was Varius? That confirms my suspicions then. Everyone else here I recognize." The armored man said. "At first I thought you to be the culprit, being the only stranger among us. But we were the jurors for one particular case ten years ago."

The hobgoblin's voice broke the conversation a moment after.

"Gah! That doesn't change the fact someone dragged us here? And no one's claiming to take credit?" He pointed his stubby finger towards you. "You're the only one I doesn't belong. Why isn't that Varius here anyways? That old man's the only one missing in the group!"

You notice the hobgoblin look around his surroundings one more time.

"This is the courthouse in Beldrin's Bluff isn't it? I recognize this place. Abandoned, and full of ghosts no doubt, but so is the rest of the city." The hobgoblin laughed. "I'm going to the exit. For all I care the rest can rot in here."

Aetius:

"All of you were jurors? For... what case?" I say looking at Rekkart. I turn to face him. "And Malgrim. What do you know about the spirits on this place?"

"Gah, I'm not going to answer some basic questions for some... unknowledgable and stupid human! Let someone else explain it if you're so curious. Once I get my hands on whoever did this to me, they'll pay! No one messes with the leader of Grindle Street Shades." With that the hobgoblin began making his way to the double doors on the west side of the room. You see him knock over the prison-bar doors, noting to yourself that it was already unlocked.

"Ye'll get yourself killed, whoever did this to us is still probably around ye' durned fool." Tablark called out after him. The dwarf turned towards you, recalling the events from a decade ago.

"Nuthin' but a filthy child-murderer and wife-killer. Hangin' was too good for 'im, ya ask me. Shoulda let me give 'im a taste o' dwarven justice, with the same axe he did for his loved ones with, ya hear!" The dwarf then pointed towards the large axe sitting on the table at the southeastern corner of the room.

"That be the murderer's axe. And a'knowin' how the city's like with spirits, that killer must be hauntin'. You don't fear lads, Old Tablark's seen more ghosts than these walls 'ave rats. Nothing to quake about. We'll send this foul spirit a'packin' or me clan name ain't Hammergrind!"

The halfling girl, Madge spoke next.


"The city's always full of spirits. Though they don't usually come out until night. They are harmless... mostly. Sometimes out in the streets at night, you could hear children's laughters, or moans heard from abandoned buildings or homes. It wasn't always like this, about 15 years ago or more perhaps, but I remember when I was a child there wasn't anything scary out at night. At least nothing supernatural. The city's lost a lot of people, moving out to other places, but those who stayed here, we learned to deal with it."

Sir Rekkart nodded at both Tablark's and Madge's explanations.

"Jarbin Mord..." The knight's eyes seemed to stare off in the distance, recalling the events in the past. "Our verdict of guilty was honest. Jarbin murdered his very family, and we did justice that day, sending him to the gallows."

Aetius:

"Here's what we have to do now. We're out of time with Malgrim making all of this noise. I'm not sure what's going on, but I've never heard of spirits poisoning people and leaving them disoriented in a court house. Priority one is that you all get out alive. We'll work together. You'll need to get the incapacitated out of here. Malgrim and I will keep them busy. Rekkart, I need you to keep the others safe. The rest of you, we'll buy you at least five minutes. Get them somewhere safe. We'll meet up again in better circumstances and figure out what's going on. Now go!" I start after Malgrim and on the way stop to grab the axe and continue to his side, shield at the ready.

As you approach the evidence table containing the axe, you heard a creak from above. The marble statues decorated attached to the ceiling was giving way. You heard Patrissa's voice shout out in warning.

"Aetius! Watch out!" She called in alarm.

(Roll reflex, 1d20+6)

The warning was all you needed, as you rolled forward, slamming against the wall, but enough to let the large slab of marble crash just inches away from where you expect it to fall. However, you watched in horror as the marble managed to hit the axe just so, and acting like a throw weapon, the axe that was sitting on the table was thrown across the room, spinning dangerously into the crowd that contained Madge, Tablark, and the three unconscious individuals they were talking care of: Killian, the half-orc, and the halfling with the jester's hat.

Madge managed to see the axe in time, as she narrowly ducked, avoiding the flying and spinning axe. Tablark however, wasn't as lucky, as the axe bit into him. The momentum continued hitting the unconscious Killian directly across his chest. Both the half-orc and the unconscious halfling wearing the jester's hat was hit too. The flying axe then hit the opposite wall, digging deep into the wood, latching itself tightly into the wall.

[info]Status/Damage Taken
Tablark: 2
Killian: 6
Half-Orc: 2
Jester's Hat Halfling: 3[/info]

The commotion was enough for Maldrin to stop his advance on the western door. And only drew up his weapon.

Patrissa screamed as Sir Rekkart made his way towards the group that was just attacked.

Tablark was stunned as he gripped his chest, blood pouring down his clothing. Killian too, had taken the most amount of damage, and whether or not it was from the pain or shock, the old man's eyes opened in pain. Killian's gasped continued on as the man started mumbling.

The half-orc and halfling with the jester's hat awoke as well. However, unlike Killian, these two had horror in their eyes, much like how it was when you had first awoken.

Aetius:

"We'll have to do this the hard way then. Malgrim. I can't force you to stay. If you're going to leave, than go. If you wish to help us please help us fight together for there is strength in numbers otherwise I wish you well." I slam my spear against my shield. " Rekkart join me at my side. We need to form a defensive line while we stabilize the wounded. Then we'll move out together in formation. Madge, I leave the wounded to you. Patrissa I'll need you up fighting with us too. A mage's assistance always makes me feel at ease. Tablark, you take what you need and catch your breath. When you feel ready I'll have you take up arms and help us protect the unconscious to save your strength."

Madge didn't have any bandages, but she managed to rip some piece of her clothing to help stem the blood coming from the wounds of the various people who were injured.

The half-orc was awake, and you notice him staring at the courtroom, much like the others first did when they first woke up.


However, the half-orc seemed to take it worse, as even in the dim light, you could tell he was shaking. He seemed to ignore the wound he had on his arm, even as Madge began patching him up.

The halfling with the jester's hat, after getting an idea of where he was, immediately had recognition strike his features.


"Get me out of here!" The halfling cried. The bells on his hat jingled in his movements, but the halfling still seemed frantic. "I... I don't want to be in here again!" He cried out again. When Madge approached him to bandage his own wounds, the halfling moved away slightly. His eyes twitchy and suspicious.

Killian who was just starting to stir, and who was first helped by Madge managed to bring himself up. Though his white suit was now stained with the red of his blood. For the most part it was stopped due to Madge's bandaging.

"My boy Aetius." Killian said as he spotted you. He glanced at everyone else, as well as his surroundings as recognition hit him much like everyone else. "Jarbin Mord." Was all he said as he opened his silver flask and took a quick drink from it.

Tablark eventually managed to regain his senses, as he fashioned a makeshift bandage for his chest.

"Careful walkin' around in 'ere." He shook his head as he tightened the bandage around him.

Meanwhile, Malgrim, pushed the western doors open, revealing an even large room.

"This is just some stupid courthouse! You stupid people can stay here as long as you like, but I'm leaving." You see him rummage through something in his pocket, pulling out what looked to be a long cigar. With his other hand he grabbed some sort of match or lighter, and it didn't take him long to get the item lit. The hobgoblin took a long and deep breathe as he prepared to move on to the next room.

Aetius:

"It seems like for the moment we are safe. We will still be vigilant and move together. But we'll take time to treat our wounds." I take time to calm everyone down and explain the situation and everything that happened up until that point. I also introduce myself and try to learn a little about everyone who was now unconscious. Afterwards I ask: "Who is Jarbin Mord Killian?"

As you explained the situation to Killian and the two others who were with you, the intently listened. Madge and Tablark closed up their wounds with makeshift bandages. It wasn't the most clean of jobs, but they at least stopped the bleeding. The half-orc remained skittish, and the halfling with the jester's hat, although was still jumpy, managed to calm down further. However, from this, you learned that the halfling's name was Ebin Blithoddle who worked as a jester, entertainer, and clown in the city. Likewise, the half-orc was Halgrak Five-Toes. You didn't get much information from him, as he continued to remain skittish. However, you confirmed again that these people with you were indeed jurors from that case ten years ago. You were indeed the only outsider, and seemingly you had taken your father's place in the kidnapping.

Malgrim surprisingly didn't walk out the door, he continued taking deep breathes of his cigar as he listened to both your explanation of things, as well as Killian's.

"Jarbin Mord." Killian said. "That's a name I haven't heard in years." He looked towards the other people in the courtroom.

"Ten years specifically. Jarbin Mord was a large man. Drooping mouth, and lazy-eyed. He was a mystery to almost anyone, nor did he seem to really socialize much either. However, he did have a beautiful and young wife, and with a bright child as well. Malene and Gabe Mord their names were. Jarbin was the executioner of our city back then. Whenever we had trials, and a guilty verdict was given, it was that droopy-faced Jarbin Mord who either pulled the lever to hang the criminals, or at times, if the punishment was severe enough, lop off their hands, arms, and even heads."

Killian paused then, and you can tell his thoughts were whirling up in his head.

"He was wrongly accused." At those words, all at once, Madge, Sir Rekkart, Ebin, and Tablark spoke.

"Blasphemy! Our verdict was just." The armored knight said.

"He was guilty!" Madge cried out, momentarily stopping the bandaging she was applying to the halfling, Ebin.

"How can ye' even say that! His poor wife and kid were murdered by that filthy killer's very axe!" To accentuate his point, the dwarf pointed at the axe that was embedded into the wall.

"Guilty! Guilty! Guilty!" Ebin, the jester shouted out loud in the cacophony of voices. Half a moment later, Patrissa spoke once everyone stopped talking.

"And you, Killian, along with Varius, had agreed back then as well." Patrissa stated matter-of-factly.

You notice the half'orcs features pale when Killian mentioned that he was wrongly accused. Malgrim, the hobgoblin, on the other hand, just started to laugh as he leaned against the opened western doors.

(You can roll Diplomacy, 1d20+4 targetted towards Ebin, the jester halfling, and Halgrak, the half-orc, to see what other information you might possibly get from them)

Aetius:

I choose not to roll for diplomacy. " I suggest we all try to get out of here. Does anyone here know the shortest way out of here? That wall falling not too long ago really startled me. That combined with the fact that we don't know if we're alone really makes me feel like we'd be better off at least outside. We'll find out who did this together, and I'll come back for the axe then too. I don't wish to see anyone else hurt."

Patrissa spoke then as she moved towards you.

"We're in the courtroom in Beldrin's Bluff." She explained. "Presumably anyways. At the very least I recognize this place. Not only that, for some reason or another we were placed in the very spots we sat in ten years ago when we decided the verdict. It would stand to reason that right outside the western doors is the great hall. South of that should be the doors to get us out of here into Beldrin's Bluff. Though... this part of the city is considered abandoned, and judging by the light outside, it's already nearing night."

To the north you see a single door. To the west is the double door that Malgrim had his back to and leaning on. It was wide open, though Malgrim hasn't yet stepped through it. On the southwestern corner was the axe that had been flung, still embedded into the wooden wall. On the southeastern corner was the fallen marble, as well as the now broken evidence table.

Aetius:

"We're all in this together. Let's form up to move. Malgrim, have you heard any movement beyond that doorway? We'll move that way. I'll go after you. I'll have Patrissa after me and Rekkart and Tablark cover behind us so that we aren't caught off guard surrounded."

The group started to gather. Even Malgrim didn't mind. Though you noted that he stayed away from Rekkart specifically. You notice the half-orc Halgrak stare at Malgrim, and you notice his features scrunch up as well. Malgrim noticed the look and only stared back, showing his teeth and intimidating the half-orc. Halgrak eventually looked away.

"We're not going to make this." Halgrak the half-orc said. "What good is forming a formation do us anyways?"

Even though his words were dismal, he did follow the group. Eventually those in the courtroom formed up behind you. Patrissa and you covered the front guard. While Tablark and Rekkart were to the sides and behind you.

(Mention when you walk into the Great Hall, as an event triggers upon entering it)

Aetius:

"I will fall before I ever let one of you die in this place." I ignite the crest on my shield and ready my weapon. "Weapons at the ready! Forward!" (We enter the next room.)

Eight enormous marble pillars fill this great hall, holding aloft grand balconies. Years of dust cover the floor, and muslin coverings are draped over the railings of baroque staircases curling like lazy serpents up to the raised landings above. A rusted chandelier above sheds the dim light of a few guttering candles. An impressive grandfather clock more than ten feet tall rests against the center of the western wall, its face decorated with guilty souls suffering Asmodeus' torments: evisceration, force-feasting of coals, scalding blades tearing them apart, and other less savory punishments. The clock stands between a set of impressive oak doors and a lone oak door of equitable splendor, identical to another set across the hall. The largest set of doors is at the south end of this long hall. They are barred against the night.

Suddenly the grandfather clock at the opposite wall began tolling and clanging dissonantly, filling the the entire building with the dissonant sounds.


You feel your head start to feel painful, a quick glance to the others told you that they too were being affected. They each grabbed their heads as visions stormed. You yourself saw images of strangulation. You saw visions of being murdered by an axe, feeling each of the hacks as they sliced into your flesh. You heard screams ring and fill your ears. You felt your neck feel squeezed, as if tightened by a hangman's noose. The visions came rapidly and in quick succession one after the other.

Halgrak yelled as the half-orc clutched his head tight. Madge and Patrissa began to scream from the pain.

(Roll Will 1d20+5)

Aetius:

I look at patrissa. I tell her that I'm going to throw my spear and try and destroy the clock and its dreadful noise. Tell her if I fail if she could try to use a spell to blow it apart. I also ask Madge if she knows any spells to protect us from the evils in this place. I then aim my spear at the clock face and throw.

(You are 50 ft. away from the target, and will suffer -4 to your attack roll, if you want, you can move 20 ft. closer and reduce the penalty to -2 instead)
(I'll assume you move up closer?)
As the gruesome flashes assaulted you, you managed to resist it, steeling your nerves from the mental attack. The others with you seemed to fare just as well. However Patrissa, Tablark, and Halgrak clutched their heads longer, tormented by the images.

"Make it stop! Make it stop!" The half-orc Halgrak continued to yell.

When you gave out your commands, Madge only covered her ears, and yelled above the noise.

"If I were a cleric, I'd have spells! I told you! I'm only pick up some healing skills, but I am by no means a cleric!" She said outloud, trying to raise her voice above the clanging of the clock.

You moved up closer to the grandfather clock, raising your spear and throwing it straight at it.

(Roll attack roll: 1d20+8 against the clock. Then roll damage: 1d8+3

Status/Damage Taken
Aetius: 0
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 0
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Malgrim: 0,
Tablark: 2, -1 Will
Killian: 6,
Halgrak: 2, -3 Will
Ebin: 3)

Your threw your spear, and it hit its mark. You shattered the glass in front of the grandfather clock, and it thudded against the other side. The spear jammed the clock, but in that same moment Patrissa's spell fired, and a blob of acid came hurling towards the clock, melting the clock's face.

The ringing of the clock stopped, and the horrific images in your head disappeared as well. Patrissa, Tablark, and Halgrak specifically were still shaken. Though Tablark spoke up.

"If only I had me trusty axe. Don't ye worry, spirits can't touch us while Tablark is around!" Tablark said trying to cheer the group up.

"Aetius was the one who stopped it, dwarf." Killian said dryly. Before the dwarf could respond, Killian followed up.

"You did good my boy." He took another sip from his silver flask.

Aetius:

"Alright everyone. I'm sure we're almost out of here, but I think we could all take a moment to gather ourselves and renew our spirit. We'll let whoever or whatever is in here that we will not be broken! Join me in a war cry!" I call my spear to my side and begin beating it against my shield first slow, then faster and faster and I yell. "Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhggggggghhhhhhh!"

"Ahaha, that's it lad!" Tablark exclaimed as the dwarf began roaring as well.The usually serious Rekkart surprisingly joined in as well as he grinned. Killian raised his voice too raising his flash as he took another swig from it.

When it was over the mood was visibly lighter.

"I feel 300 years younger!" The dwarf said as he smiled. Patrissa and Madge smiled too. Though you noticed Halgrak was still skittish, Malgrin, sour as usual only looked on, while Ebin looked on almost bored.

Aetius:

"Alright then. We'll go though those large double doors." I point at the largest doors in the hall. "Who's ready?"

They nod their heads. The southern doors, the largest in the room was the exit. It was closed shut. And though it was evening, there was still some light outside. From the way the shadows looked between the cracks of the door, you assumed that the door was barred from the outside.

Aetius:

"Before we get out of here I'm curious everyone. What's the plan? Do you want to split up or state together?" I also turn and ask. "Malgrim, do you think you can get that door open?"

Patrissa smiled. "As much as this reunion was interesting, and being able to meet Varius' son. I'll be taking off."

Looking at the others, they nodded as well. Killian spoke up soon after though.

"We still have that business with the town hall after this my boy..." You noticed he didn't specifically say anything about the inheritance, you assumed he wanted to avoid the subject in the presence of these other people.

"Do what you want." Malgrim said. "Once I'm out of here, the Grindle Street Shades will find out whoever did this to me, and will suffer."

Sir Rekkart glanced at the hobgoblin.

"You are one of the most wanted criminals in the city Malgrim. When we're out of here, I'm taking you under arrest."

The hobgoblin glanced back.

"I'd like to see you try." But with that Malgrim went up to the door, and started trying to open it. The handles wouldn't budge of course, and even pushing it with all his might it didn't seem to move at all.

Aetius:

"I guess we'll need to destroy the door then. You ready Patrissa? Give it everything you got! Every one else, let's step back."

Patrissa began casting a spell, like before a blob of acid appeared at her fingertips as it sped towards the door.

Patrissa's spell damaged the door, but it was minor. Malgrim made a chuckling sound, but Patrissa only continued flinging her spells. One after the other the orbs of acid splashed into the wood, slowy burning away the great oak doors. But it only did minimal damage.

"You're taking pretty long." Malgrim commented icily. This caused Patrissa to glare at the hobgoblin.

"I don't see you trying to help!" Patrissa shot back.

"Let's just get out of here! Out of here!" Ebin chanted, his nerves getting to him. The half-orc, Halgrak, only shook his head.

"This isn't going to work. This isn't going to work."

But Patrissa continued at it, and soon enough as she focused her blast of spells, she managed to make a small opening. You can see the outside light. If you had to guess it was nearing 7 PM.

She panted, but smiled at her handy work. The rest of the wood from the oak was already damaged from the continuous blasts of acid, so it looked much weaker than before.

Aetius:

"Alright. Here's what I want to do. Before we get out of here, I propose we split up and look for clues as to who or what drugged us and put us in here. This place isn't too large so it won't be long, before we have what we need to know. I know it's a little risky but we'll be in pairs. Yell if you encounter trouble and we'll all come running to your aid. I know that some of you want to seek justice on those that have hurt us and others want to put this all behind us. Well we can at least give you a clue of where to start or who to avoid should you want to put this behind us. Remember, there's no need to encounter the enemy alone." (I'll now plan how I'm going to split everyone up and where I want to go.)
(Can I have a list of everyone and their equipment again? Scrolling is a little hard.)

Examining the group as a whole, everyone seemed fidgety. The flying axe from the first room, as well as the grandfather clock that seemed to ring over and over, left the group in an anxious state. The worse ones off seemed to be Halgrak, who continued muttering to himself, telling everyone that they were all doomed, as well as Ebin, who at times, seemed to laugh quietly to himself as his eyes shifted back and forth trying to pierce through the darkness. At the very least, with the thoughts of the trial 10 years ago still in their minds, they were at least jumpy.

Killian had his white suit and top hat with him. You didn't see any visible weapons, though he did carry a silver cane strapped to his side, as well as four darts that you managed to see attached to his clothing. In his hands was the silver flask that he continued to sip. Malgrim wore a set of hide armor, but you noticed the finely crafted spiked chain at this side the most. From seeing how he handled the weapon earlier, you knew that he was proficient with the exotic weapon. He did continue to holding that large cigar he had lit earlier still, and at times he would breathe it in, holding it in for a good few seconds before exhaling again. Sir Rekkart Cole was perhaps the most armored in the group. His shining plate armor covered most of his body, and the sections that didn't, had chainmail underneath. He had a finely crafted longsword, and with his profession as a knight, he was proficient in use with the weapon. Patrissa had no visible weapons, but she did wear a tight-fitting red silken dress. Her most prominent feature was the fire-opal amulet she had around her neck. Though you did notice that she wore a ring.

Halgrak carried a light hammer hanging at his side on a belt, as well as some tongs. He had no armor on, only choosing to wear some rough dirty clothing. His physique told you he had strength, though from the way he moved and carried himself, he was no fighter. Ebin, as short as halflings were, seemed to be around the same height as Madge. He had some thick clothes on, perhaps padded armor, and he also had what looked to be a sap on hand. His most striking feature was the jester's hat which continued making jingling sounds as he moved. Tablark wore leather, though he was unarmed. He did have a set of carpentry tools on his belt however. You do remember that Tablark mentioned if he had 'his trusty axe' so you assumed he would at least be able to fight with one if he managed to get his hands on one. Lastly Madge was wearing thick clothing, probably padded armor, a small backpack she had on her back, and lastly two visible daggers on both her sides.

(I hope the doors are visible to see on the grid map I sent earlier, but a quick description of the area again in terms of exits) To the south you see the large double doors that marked both the exit and entrance of the courthouse. There were windows too, but those were boarded up as well. One of the doors was badly damaged from Patriss's spells, and you can peer out of it from the hole that was created. To your direct east was the courtroom you were just in. To your direct west looked to be another set of matching double doors that mirrored the courtroom's. Above that door was another one, and a matching one north of the courtroom. Beyond that, further north you could see a large chandelier attached to the ceiling as well as two flights of stairs that spiraled upwards. There were windows at the other end as well, though they too were boarded up. There were two other doors to rooms to the west. And likewise there were two more doors that went to rooms to the east. You do notice one single door near the northeastern corner that pointed northwards.

Aetius:

"Alright team. Here's how we're going to group up. Malgrim and Tablark are going to stay here by the door. I want the both of you to listen and peak outside the door and prepare if you hear something coming in. Also, if things go really far south I want you to take down the doors with your tools Tablark and you with that axe Malgrim. You're our lifeline in this and our only current escape route." "Halgrak and Ebin you are to stay and look for clues here in this room. You will also be in charge of yelling and calling out if you hear others call for help to make sure we all hear where help is needed." (I'll keep planning. )
"Killian I mainly want you to inspect this clock here. See if you can figure out what curse or whatnot was happening to it. Once you have completed that I want you to run back and forth between our groups for messages and status updates."

"Rekkart and Madge you two are going to start in at the other large double doors off from this room and then look in the room behind the single door over there. Look for anything you can take of interest. You can just keep it in your pack for now madge. We can look it over after we're all safe together." I put my hand on Rekkart's shoulder plate."I know you'll be fine."
(Ok all done planning)
"Patrissa and I will first go back to investigate the dammed axe in the other room as well as the door off from that room. We will then come help you back here." I look into Patrissa's eyes and smile. "Is everyone ready?"

Malgrim was the first to respond.

"I'm not going to take orders from you human. But it just so happens that I was going to stand here anyways and get the damn door open. That poor excuse of a wizard couldn't even blast the door wide." Malgrim said smugly, but he soon brandished his spiked chain and began bashing on the door. Tablark went up too with some renewed vigor, examining the wood and how the the windows and doors were boarded up.

"Hastily done job or I'm not a carpenter!" Tablark exclaimed as he immediately began tracing where the nails were.

Halgrak and Ebin, already the two most insecure in the group were much more timid at their specific tasks. Halgrak continued to complain. "We'll not find anything... this place is just filled with spirits. We're stuck." Ebin, on the other hand, was a lot more fidgety, and you notice he began to nibble on his nails. Ebin was continually on alert as his eyes darted back and forth, jumping from every sound the others would make. While Halgrak didn't seem to put much effort in the investigation, and only followed after Ebin while half-heartedly searching around.

Killian nodded, but not before he placed a hand on your shoulder.

"My boy, your father would be proud to see you in action. It's a pity he wasn't able to. I'm no wizard or cleric, and by no means am I familiar with the supernatural, but I'll take a look at the clock." With that the white-suited gentlemen made his way to the grandfather clock, though you noticed he took his steps slow, almost hesitant as he came closer to the now broken piece of furniture.

Madge spoke out, clarifying the instructions.

"Are we supposed to go -in- the rooms?" Her voice quivered at first, though she tried vainly to steel her resolve.

Madge continued to look on worryingly. But Sir Rekkart patted the halfling girl on the back an soon enough they started heading towards the western double doors. You yourself, along with Patrissa moved to the eastern doors, and back to the courtroom. The axe was still embedded into the wall. You both drew closer to it, and Patrissa placed a hand on your shoulder, and with her husky voice she spoke.

"We should be careful, it wasn't natural that the marble statue fell in just the right position for this axe to fly straight here."

Now that you were closer to the weapon. You can tell it was larger than a greataxe, in fact, it looked unwieldy to use as a normal weapon. You realize that it was an executioner's axe of some sort. It was well-crafted, and even after 10 years of neglect, it seemed to shine with some sort of brilliance, nor was the axe corroded in any way as if the ravages of time hardly did anything to the weapon.

Aetius:

"Can you tell what sort of hex or curse is at foot here? Patrissa?"

"Someone wants to gather everyone from 10 years ago to this site where we had the trial. I'm not sure for what purpose. As for the supposed spirit of Jarbin, there are always ghosts in the city, so it wouldn't surprise me if his soul along with the many others who were sent to trial here still linger. But if anything, those spirits never usually do us any harm. As for the axe here, it's enchanted, you can tell by the fact that there's no rust, and it looks as if it was just taken out of a forge, newly created."

Aetius:

"Can you dispell the enchantment patrissa?"

The wizard shook her head. "I'm not so well-versed in the arcane arts to do that. Even if I could, it would take the strongest of wizards to permanently dispel magic on an enchanted item like this."

Aetius:

"Before we spend too much more time on this for right now we need to cover more ground and look for clues.We'll come back to it because I know this is an important piece of the clue. Let's go through that other single door over there." I point to the other door off of this room. While we're walking across the room I ask. "Patrissa, tell me about the amulet you have."

As you begin to walk back, Patrissa was about to respond, but instead it was cut off by Malgrim's voice in the next room over.

"Stupid courthouse! You, get out of my way!" You heard what sounded to be some shuffling, followed by a thud as Madge's voice was heard next.

"Hey that hurt!" She said.

(Let me know when you walk back into the great hall, so I can describe the scene you see upon entering)

You see Madge on the floor, next to the door that they were about to go in. Sir Rekkart was helping her back up, though from his mean look at Malgrim, you can tell he was angry. Tablark had opened a wider hole in the door, using the damage from Patrissa's spell earlier, and increasing the gap to be wide enough for an individual to squeeze through. Though for some reason or another he just frowned as he stared at the opening. Malgrim angrily strode into the next room on the west.

Aetius:

"What happened?"

"I'm finding a way out!" Malgrim declared as he strode into the room. All of a sudden the doors slammed shut the moment he walked in. The force of the impact was powerful as dust was thrown into the air. Alarmed, Sir Rekkart moved towards the door that had just closed and began opening it. Lightly at first, but when he noticed that it was shut tight, he began pounding his whole body's weight against it.

"It's the exit..." Tablark said gloomily as he pointed towards the southern door responding to your question. He pointed to the large opening that both he and Malgrim had worked on to create. "It's... not working."

Its then that the group hears a peculiar sound coming from the now shut room that Malgrim disappeared into. A harsh staccato whisper builds to the rasping croak of a strangled man that echoes through the entire courthouse. Malgrim screams frantically over the horrid sound. "No! Get away from me! You're dead! I saw you swing! No!" The jangling of a chain and wet gurgling follow. Then all goes silent.

Aetius:

"I have experience fighting the undead friends." I say as I raise up my spear towards the door Malgrim went through and get into a fighting stance. "I will buy you the time you all need to escape. All of you! Give everything you have! Attack the door. I'll see you on the other side!" I run at the door where Malgrim was probably killed and charge into the room cursing the spirits name. "Come at me you cowardly specter come at a man not afraid to die! Not afraid of you! You were as weak in flesh as you are now! COME AT A MAN WITH A DEATH WISH!" I scream as I set my shield ablaze."

Rekkart continued pounding on the door, but it continued to be shut tight. When you arrived however and barked your commands, you expected the door to give some resistance, but as you pushed on it at the same time Rekkart did, the door swung open. You had nearly lost your balance with the western door suddenly giving way.

But instead of the undead, you were greeted by a hanging corpse. It was Malgrim,with his own spiked chain wrapped around his neck like a sick excuse of a hangman's noose. As Malgrim, quite dead, was hung on the rafters, his fresh blood continued to pour down, drenching his clothing in red, and creating a red pool of blood just underneath his swinging boots.

Madge, who was watching from the doorway, gasped as she placed a hand over her mouth. Sir Rekkart moved forward too, though he had turned around to beckon the others to move to the southern doors.

This next room was very similar to the first courtroom. In fact it looked like a mirror of it. However, unlike the eastern courtroom, this one was in a worse state. Much of the furniture in this old courtroom has been splintered into kindling. It looks like someone has ruthlessly smashed almost everything in the room. Beyond the carnage, the bench has been overturned and the jurors' box is in shambles. The windows here are crisscrossed with heavy boards. Where the nails breach the plaster around the windows, rust stains seep like bloody wounds in the courthouse walls.

But what you noticed the most were a variety of ravens, each with glowing red eyes staring down at you from both the rafters, and the window sills. They didn't quite yet attacked, and the ravens only stared, each of their eyes looking towards you.

(I need to make a gridmap, but its basically a mirror of the first Courtroom, just flipped as it's the west courtroom. In game terms, there are two swarms of ravens that are 30 ft. west, and 10 ft. up)
"The others should escape when they can" Sir Rekkart said as he drew his sword. "I'll be the last one out along with you, Aetius." He looked grimly at Malgrim's hanging body.

Aetius:

"Rekkart. Help me take his body down. We'll take it out with us. I'll tell you Rekkart, I have an idea, I just feel like it's a risky idea, but it's my back up plan... before I get to it, I have three questions." I clear my throat. "Question one: What did you and Madge find before we all returned to the great hall?"
"Question two: Do you think that window would be easier to get through than the door the team is trying to break through in the great hall?"
"Question three: Have you ever heard of a spirit that could do this much and have powers this great? The power to drug us? Bring us here? Create haunted contraptions like that clock?"
"I hope you don't mind my questions Rekkart."

"When you went to the eastern courtroom, Madge and I opened this one. We only took a few steps in when we noticed those ravens on the windows." He pointed towards the ominous swarms that gathered up in the rafters and the windows sill.

"Their eyes aren't natural, we didn't have a chance to go deeper in and see if those ravens will attack us until we heard Malgrim's cursing. We headed back out, only to find the hobgoblin pushing Madge aside, and entering the courtroom himself."

"As for the door, I believe Tablark and Malgrim have widened it more." You heard sounds of wood being torn as well as thudding. "I assume the others are already working on taking the door apart, at least for the larger ones to get through."

For your last question, Rekkart slowly shook his head.

"I haven't heard of a spirit who could drug us. Spirits usually only haunt one location they are tied to, and never have I heard any stories of spirits dragging its victims to its lair. As for the haunted contraptions, if the spirit is powerful enough, then yes, they can affect our realm. Undead, zombies, and wraiths aren't as rare as you would think. This place however..."

He shook his head as he banished his dismal thoughts.

"Lets bring down the body quick, those ravens continue watching us, and keep your guard up as well."

Looking at how Malgrim was hung up, you can see that the spiked chain was only hastily tied at the top. Pulling it down with the body wihth some force should be able to bring down both Malgrim and the weapon. As you examine the weapon, you know for a fact that it was Malgrim's own weapon that he had brandished out before. It was a Spiked Chain. Though you weren't particularly proficient in the weapon, you knew that it was a common enough that some fighters fought with the exotic weapon. It was a finely crafted weapon, and as you brought it up closer, you noticed that each of the sharp razors that made up the spiked chain looked to have streaks of ice on it, and the tips were abnormally cold as well. If anything you realized that it was indeed a masterwork weapon, and magical too, if the unnatural coldness was any indication. Near its handle, you notice an engraving on it, that simply read 'Grindle-Slash', you assume that to be the name of the weapon.

The ravens staring down at you were called Carrionstorms. Where the dead walk, the carrion birds follow. In most cases, the unfortunate birds that feast on the remains of fallen undead creatures simply grow diseased and die. Yet the flesh of some ghouls has an altogether different effect upon such scavengers, and when they die of the poisoned repast, they do not stay dead for long. Alone, an undead crow or vulture is little more than a hideous mockery, but in rare cases where ghoulish activity is thick, entire colonies of carrion birds can succumb to undeath, retaining their flock mentality yet no longer seeking the flesh of the freshly dead to sate their hunger. Carrionstorms, as these flocks of undead birds are called, find brief respite from their morbid hunger only when their meals are warm and screaming.

Carrionstorms are typically found near graveyards, haunted structures, or abandoned villages where ghouls have been active. Many necromancers and cultists have a particular fondness for carrionstorms, and since the birds have a strange respect for the symbol of the Pallid Princess, rookeries of them are often found roosting in the nooks of the goddess of undeath's macabre cathedrals.

Although the individual undead birds that make up a carrionstorm are little more intelligent than they were in life, as a whole, a carrionstorm forms a rudimentary hive mind that grants its members a slight bit more intellect than the typical bird. This not only allows the undead birds to utilize basic tactics, but allows rudimentary speech as well. Most carrionstorms understand a few dozen words in Necril, the language of the dead, and the sound of thousands of these undead carrion birds croaking out strange words can be truly unsettling to those who aren't prepared for the horror. This same hive mind allows necromancers to treat an entire carrionstorm as a single undead creature with regard to the effects of spells like command undead and control undead, or feats like Command Undead. The swarms make excellent scouts, and even better threats against small towns and superstitious communities.

(DEFENSE
AC 12, touch 12, flat-footed 12 (+2 size)
hp 11 (2d8+2)
Fort +1, Ref +0, Will +5
Defensive Abilities swarm traits; Immune undead traits
Weaknesses vulnerable to channeled energy

OFFENSE
Speed 10 ft., fly 40 ft. (good)
Melee swarm (1d6 plus distraction)
Space 10 ft.; Reach 0 ft.)

Aetius:

"Here's my plan Rekkart. We first need to pull Malgrim down, then we'll retreat back and close this door behind us. We'll assess how the others are doing with the door and I'll adjust my plan from there." I then explain to Rekkart what I know about the Ravens.

As you begin to bring the body down, the ravens started murmuring, they said strange words that you couldn't decipher, and all at once, they began to flock and swarm towards you and Sir Rekkart. You used your ability, encouraging Sir Rekkart as both of the swarms came close. They were trying to encircle you altogether, and you found an opportunity to attack..

You attacked with your spear as they came close, piercing a couple of the ravens in your attack, as well as injuring more than a couple in that single strike. You followed up again, striking the dark mass of birds that circled you.

Aetius:

"Rekkart! Let's back up and fight them in the doorway. That way we won't be hit from behind!"

Your readied action hit, and like before you managed to take down a couple more ravens in that attack. Rekkart two took his attack of opportunity from earlier with his blade coming down on a handful of the ravens, completely slicing them as his sword fell. He followed up with another slash of his sword against the swarm, but he missed. He heard your shout of getting closer to the door, and he took a 5 ft. step closer, while still maintaining his guard against the circling ravens.

The whirling of the ravens is mesmerizing, and you feel yourself starting to get queasy trying to keep track of the fast moving birds. But you hold out against it.

Sir Rekkart however, was having a much harder time, and you can tell that the movements of the creatures flying around him was making the knight hesitate.

Aetius:

"Rekkart, this place is full of busted up wood and cloth, it's practically a match ready to ignite. All we need is a spark. If you strike that marble just right you'll set this place ablaze and flame will purify the spirits of this place. Once it takes I'll grab Malgrim and we'll get out of here."

"With my sword?" Rekkart asked questioningly. "Flint and steel should work better, unfortunately, I do not have any of my regular gear with me when I was drugged out."

Aetius:

"It's the best we have. I'm afraid if I take Malgrim down dark magics will raise him against us. All we need is a spark friend."

Sir Rekkart began looking around for any pieces of cloth or wood, with the city being so close to the ocean, Beldrin's Bluff literally at the edge of the cliff that was the western ocean, most of everything was slightly damp. He did find some splinters however. There was some marble that made up the columns, as well as arches of the door, and using that, Rekkart bent down, placing the splinters of wood at the base, then began striking the marble just above it.
(It'll take a couple rounds for Sir Rekkart to start a fire up, and will probably need some other starter logs to help the fire, feel free to state any other actions while Rekkart is starting the fire, and gathering usable tinder)

Aetius:

"Rekkart I forgot. I have a flint and steel in my pack. Here!" I toss it to him. "I'll keep you safe while you get the fire burning." "Tablark, Killian, Patrissa come here quick!" I yell.

Rekkart grabbed the flint and steel and started on the fire. Eventually, Tablark, Killian, and Patrissa made their way up to you. Tablark saw What Rekkart was going, and clamored for attention.

"Aetius, there's a problem." The old dwarf said as he pointed back towards the southern exit. "We can't get out." The hole that they had created was 3 ft. in width, and about 5 ft. in height, which should have been enough for everyone to go through, however the dwarf's worried features seemed to conflict with what was apparent. He continued.

"Whenever we try to step out, we're sent back in."

At this point, Sir Rekkart, who had an ember going, though not yet a full blaze, looked curiously at the dwarf. Killian and Patrissa however, confirmed what he had said.

"It's true my boy." Killian said. "You put a foot through, and before you know it, you're standing back inside."

Patrissa shook her head.

"Whatever put us here, wants to keep us here."

Aetius:

"Rekkart, we'll come back to this plan later. Instead of using our backs we'll use our heads. Let's all go back into the great hall and talk." I call over Killian and tell him privately. "Can you help me calm Halgrak and Ebin down so we need their head in the game. Tablark, while we're talking in the great hall, keep your eyes on Malgrim's body. I don't want to see the Ravens or a dark sorcerer to desecrate it." We walk into the great hall, in the middle of the room. "Ok everyone gather round and let's talk. Tell me everything you can about the trial from start to finish. I'm sure the answer to get out of here is right in front of us."

[info]I want you to roll Sense Motive for each NPC, to see if you can detect if anyone is lying, or not being completely truthful.  - Be warned, that if you low roll, I'll just describe that you don't notice anything suspicious. Roll 1d20+1, 7 times for the 7 remaining NPCs. Also roll Diplomacy 7 times, 1d20+4, to see how willing they are to share information, and how much of it)
(Give me each of the results one by one, first the 7 Sense Motive, then the 7 Diplomacy
(Rolls are for the chars in this order: Madge
Sir Rekkart
Patrissa
Tablark
Killian
Halgrak
Ebin[/info]

(Ok, I'll roll them for that order.
)
21, 13, 14, 8, 15, 5, 20
14, 23, 20, 6, 18, 10, 18

Tablark nodded as he made his way towards the western doors, stopping right before going in, and keeping a wary eye on Malgrim's body and the few raven that remained.

"That damn ole' broke-neck Mord..." Tablark said as he looked at Malgrim's dead body. "Never liked that Malgrim, but that poor fool didn't deserve that." Like Tablark, the rest of the group was shakened from Malgrim's death, his body still swung from the rafters.

Using the embers, Rekkart managed to create a makeshift torch from a broken piece of the bench, as well as some old cloth that was used as table covers. It was already getting dark, and looking at the light creeping between the boarded windows and the gaping hole created at the southern doors, it was around 7:30 PM. Madge, with her backpack, pulled out a few scraps of food. She, among the original 7 remaining jurors, was the only one to have carried food with her, due to the fact that she lived out in the streets, and usually always carried something to munch on. As each of the group talked about the trial, she handed out the pieces of food; bread, some cheese, and jerky mainly. It was hardly enough, and Madge had to split her morsels of food evenly by 7. What was supposed to be one or two meals for the halfling, became a light snack for the group.

[info](I think your char has some rations too, so you can choose to give those up if you want)

Madge: Sense Motive: 21, Diplomacy: 14[/info]Madge was the first to speak as she pulled out her small backpack and began pulling out the food.

"Jarbin Mord was an evil man. How could he not, being the executioner of this courthouse? He's killed so many people in the name of the law."

You noticed Rekkart stare at her curiously, as if to correct her, but he chose to be quiet.

"I'm sure he killed innocent people too! Even if some trials aren't fair, the one we held for Jarbin was." Madge said. However, you get the feeling that she wasn't telling the full story. She seemed to be hiding some detail in her explanation.

[info]Sir Rekkart: Sense Motive: 13, Diplomacy: 23[/info]"You are a good man Aetius. And I know you are doing what you can to keep everyone alive and for us to get out of there. But I agree with Madge. Jarbin Mord wrongfully murdered his own wife and child. Justice is always brought down, and where I do not agree with Madge is her idea that some trials are unfair. This is why we have the jury. In Valtean's name I swear that I did what I knew to be just. There must be a reason why all of us had been brought here. We were all jury members of that trial, and I suspect it has to deal with revenge."

Sir Rekkart's words was what he believed to be true, at least you didn't get any inkling that he was lying, and even then, you knew knights to uphold their own code, and found it unlikely that Rekkart would be willingly lying. Once he finished, you did notice Rekkart glance at Patrissa.

[info]Patrissa: Sense Motive: 14, Diplomacy: 20[/info]Out of habit, Patrissa began fiddling with the fire-opal amulet she wore.

"There's not much for me to say." Patrissa began. "We were given the evidence, explained the situation, and I agreed that he was guilty. Sir Rekkart, a knight of Valtean, and Tablark, our hard-working dwarf, agreed as well. It was unanimous." You found it strange that she mentioned Sir Rekkart and Tablark specifically, but other than that, you didn't get any other hunch about her truthfulness or not.

[info]Tablark: Sense Motive: 8, Diplomacy: 6[/info]"He was guilty, I tell ye'" The dwarf called out as he continued sitting near the western doors, both keeping an eye on Malgrim's swinging body and tending to the embers that Rekkart had created. "As I said earlier, if hanin' was too good for 'im. He shudda had a taste o' his own medicine. He might be hauntin' these halls, but we'll find a way out!" As he spoke, you noticed that Tablark shivered a bit, and his eyes, usually calm, seemed to be angry, or perhaps even wild.

[info]Killian: Sense Motive: 15, Diplomacy: 18[/info]"Well..." Killian began as he looked towards you and the others. "I was doing my job. Along with Varius. We both worked as jurors for a few years before this particular trial. Always did we try to do what was right. But..." He looked towards the others in the group, his eyes seemingly piercing and a lot more threatening.

"Someone here must be lying, not telling the entire truth, or even orchestrated the entire mess." He seemed to pause, as if considering the words he just said. "I would come clean if I were you. One of us was already killed."

His words seemed to have an effect, and you notice Madge look away slightly. Patrissa continued watching Killian, her eyes were steely. Sir Rekkart considered the words, but seemed to nod in approval. Tablark nodded as well, though made a comment that it was Malgrim who was the bad one. Halgrak seemed to look even more gloomier than usual, as he slunk down and looked at his left boot specifically. Ebin seemed to smirk, but he followed up with a strange and quiet chuckle.

[info]Halgrak: Sense Motive: 5, Diplomacy: 10[/info]"He was innocent!" Halgrak blurted out loud, drawing some stares from the rest with him. Sir Rekkart responded before anyone else could.

"You sentenced guilty as well Halgrak. And I refuse to believe that there was wrongdoing in our justice system. Even if you would have said innocent, which I find hard to believe, he still would have hung."

Halgrak didn't seem to say anything else more than that, but he only covered his eyes. You didn't feel any sense of deception from him, but he didn't seem to be willing to talk about anything more either.

[info]Ebin: Sense Motive: 20, Diplomacy: 18[/info]"I never did like him!" Ebin announced as soon as it was apparent Halgrak wouldn't say anymore. "Hehehe. I'll tell you why I voted guilty. I'll tell you! He embarrassed me a few weeks before Mord's murder during the district councilman's birthday feast. Hehehehe. I was told that death itself was funnier than me. Me! Me! Then that councilman got Mord up on stage, and that man.... He... He...." Ebin got redder and redder, and you notice that he was getting angry.

"He upstaged me! When he was brought on trial for the murder of his wife and kid. Of course he was guilty! Guilty filthy! Filthy guilty!" He chuckled to himself again.

After each of the group finished their descriptions, a sound of a child giggling was heard. It echoed throughout the chambers, and it didn't seem to come from any one specific place. A moment after that footsteps were heard coming from upstairs. Sir Rekkart raised his torch as he looked up, following the footsteps of whatever it was that ran. But a moment later it was silent again.

(Intimidate is a social skill as well, so you can go that route if you wish)

Aetius:

"Thank you for the food madge. I have enough in my pack to give us one more meal as well, but i don't expect we'll be here that long. As for accusations, you should leave them here. Only the insane would put themselves through this. No matter if you think Jarbin was guilty or not he's a dead man and hatred for the dead brings no good will. At first I thought we would have to fight our way out of here but it looks like we have some unfinished business. That noise we heard is a sort of proof of that. I know that some of us aren't really all that close with each other, and that's fine, but I would rather be with all of you here than any one else. Malgrim made his choices and they ended his life. I've fought the undead before and have had to fight slain friends sent against me. His honor and our safety are both protected with him where he is now, we'll bring him
with us when we leave. As for what we'll do next, I'll need you all clear headed and need to make sure we each have some kind of weapon or ability to defend ourselves. Let's review our equipment, then we'll finish off whatever is down stairs here, and take on whatever we just heard upstairs. It could be the soul of a dead man, or something darker than dreams can comprehend."

The group began showing what they had on them. They took turns putting stuff up in the circle, using Rekkart's torch to showcase the objects. When it was Tablark's turn, he simply called out what he had with him, choosing not to take his eyes off of Malgrim's dead corpse.

The group was surprisingly open, as they each revealed the hidden weapons they had on them. Patrissa, pulling her skirt up and to reveal the dagger on her garter, as well as Killian's weapons which consisted of a rapier, darts, and a dagger.

(mwk = Masterwork

Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, rations (1 day), healer's kit, makeshift torch (lit)
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.
Malgrim's corpse: Grindle-Slash (spiked chain weapon), and other things?)

Aetius:

"Before we finish exploring I have a question. Does anyone here have a understanding of the arcane and magic equipment?"

"Apart from finding out what they do on their own? No clue." Madge said. The others had similar responses.

Aetius:

"If it's ok with everyone then, we'll leave the murder axe where it is. Here!" I throw my sword to Tablark. "I think that this will be a more effective weapon."

Tablark caught the weapon, "I'll get this back to ye' by the end of this." The dwarf said as he practiced a quick swing with the blade.

Aetius:

"Before we keep exploring this floor I think we should clear away the remaining Carrionstorms on this floor. We don't know if they could try and attack us. I'm going to try and catch one and learn about the kind of evil we are facing."

The group began to gather their things back up, as they proceeded to gather around Tablark at the western doors. The ravens began squawking as they noticed the gathering individuals. Though, they didn't move forward to attack. There was around 300 of them still remaining.

Aetius:

"Attack! I yell and point my spear forward! Remember leave one alive!"

The group acted all at once as they poured into the room. Tablark charges forward with your sword. Closing he swung the blade, managing to hit a couple of the ravens. Aetius managed to grab one of the ravens, holding it down. Sir Rekkart had charged as well, though he didn't do as well and missed the ravens. Madge managed to stab a couple of them as they flew around her. Killian managed to strike at a couple ravens as well. Patrissa cast her spells taking down more of the ravens. The birds continued to bite and swarm around the party. It didn't take long, and soon enough most of the ravens were dead, with only the one you had captured piled down. The small bird continued to struggle as it attempted to claw and bite you.

Although you took as much damage as Rekkart, you were still relatively healthy. Rekkart looked to be faring much worse with wounds on his cheek and arms. Tablark, Killian, Halgrak, and Ebin were still injured from the axe wounds from earlier, and this foray with the ravens managed to open up some of their injuries again. They all panted once the ravens were defeated.

[info](You have a raven hostage, you could put it in the bag, or do whatever, each turn, it will attempt to escape.)

(Log:
Tablark attacks deals 5 damage.
Aetius moves forward and grapples successfully.
Sir Rekkart misses.
Madge attacks deals 1 damage.
Patrissa casts Acid Orb and deals 3 damage.
Ebin doesn't attack.
Halgrak doesn't attack.
Killian attacks and deals 3 damage.
Carrionstorm is destroyed.
Undead raven deals 1 damage to Aetius.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 10
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 9, nauseated (ends on round 2)
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 2, -1 Will
Killian: 6,
Halgrak: 2, -3 Will
Ebin: 3)[/info]

Aetius:

I put the Raven in the sack and tie it up as well as I can. I see if anyone has a sack I can put that sack in to reinforce it. "Let's all tend to our wounds team. I am confident that we are for the moment, safe. Rekkart. Let me tend to your wounds." I also check my pack for medical supplies.

As you began treating Sir Rekkart, you ignore the small wounds that you had on your own body. Unlike the rest, even Sir Rekkart, your regimented training and experience in the conflict against The Red Legion made you much more durable than the rest. Madge however, seeing your injuries did approach you.

"We can't have our leader take care of everyone without looking after himself." She said as she grinned at you. She began pulling out a healer's kit herself. She waited until you were free, but she pulled out some bandages and what looked to be some disinfectant as well.

[info](Rekkart heals +4 HP, Aetius heals +5 HP)
( Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak:0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 0, already used treat deadly wounds)[/info]

With most of the ravens dead, the only thing out of the ordinary in the room was Malgrim's body which still hung from the rafters. The pool of blood under him was still there, and his body still continued to drip some blood. To the north you see a door that leads to the room right above this one. And to your east is the exit back to the central hall. Towards the south was nothing but the marble and wooden wall, while to the west was both the podium for the judge, as well as boarded-up windows.

Aetius:

I heartily thank Madge for the help. "Feeling better Rekkart?" Then I ask the group:"Whew... ok everyone. I call a vote. Either we go upstairs or we finish exploring downstairs. What do you all think."

"The noises above make me think something is up there." Sir Rekkart said. "As much as I do not think venturing further is wise, it seems to be the only option to us."

"If we're exploring, I say we go slow." Madge said. "Whenever I'm somewhere unfamiliar, going slow is the best way."

"I agree with Madge." Patrissa said as she began playing with her fire-opal amulet. "But as long as I'm with Aetius, I'll be fine." She said as she glanced towards you specifically. Madge rolled her eyes.

"Let's find this child-killing bastard!" Tablark announced, "If something is up there. We should kill it!" He waved the sword you let him borrow to emphasize his point.

"You're the leader my boy, exploring these floors would be my advice." Killian said. Halgrak didn't suggest anything, only remaining silent, and Ebin only chuckled to himself.

Aetius:

"We'll quickly explore the bottom floor just to make sure we don't get attacked from behind when we go upstairs. Before very careful team. I want to avoid another cave in. Let's check that room behind the smaller room off of the great hall. I'll open the door first." I listen against the door before I open it.

You begin leading the way. You started moving towards the western door, just north of the large double doors on the west. But it was then that you catch sight of something further northwards. Out of the shadows shambles a tall, hunched figure. The thing's head jerks obscenely to one side atop a discolored broken neck. Its face is obscured by a rotten death shroud, a milky eye peering through one worn hole, half its black- tooth-filled mouth visible through another rent in the fabric.


A horrid rasp of air croaking out pain and misery issues from the thing's crushed throat as it reaches for Tablark Hammergrind. The dwarf moans, a sound like a tortured animal as he drops to his knobby old knees. His hands reach toward his face as if of their own accord and his fingers curl and claw at his eyes. Tablark screams, a high-pitched monstrous sound that cuts the air and warbles on impossibly long, as he leaves large bloody furrows across his face and eyes. The scream turns to mad wild laughter as Tablark rises to his feet. He begins to laugh maniacally as he began running with no true purpose.

You were not able to figure out what effects Tablark was under. However, the dwarf continued to rake at his eyes and face, you realize it wouldn't be long until the dwarf had forcefully blinded himself. You were not able to determine where the creature had come from. By your estimation it was already around 8 PM, going around each of the members' stories, creating the fire, wiping out the ravens, and treating everyone's injuries took about an hour. Aside from Rekkart's torch, most of the great hall was dark. The torch's illumination spread 20 ft. around the knight, but the figure was about 40 ft. away. Just at the edge of being barely able to make out from the low light. It came from somewhere in the darkness, though you couldn't tell specifically where.

Aetius:

"Halgrak! Ebin! Restrain Tablark he can't control himself! Killian! Take my flint and steel! We have to get more light if we're going to fight here. Come on everyone else!"

Halgrak was much more slower than, Ebin, though from your commands, they both attempted to grapple and eventually pin down the dwarf. Halgrak failed completely. But Ebin managed to secure a lock and push the dwarf down as they began to grapple. Tablark continued to laugh hysterically, his mirth completely out of place.

"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!" Ebin continued to yell, trying to raise his voice above the dwarf's laughter. But the dwarf continued raking at his eyes, and you watched in disgust as his left eye was already becoming a bloody mess.

Meanwhile, Killian had taken your flint and steel. Looking around there was no immediate wood in the area, so he started making his way down south towards the western courtroom.

You yourself charged at the creature, scoring a direct hit. However, as you attempted to knock the creature over, it managed to keep its footing and avoid your attempt to knock him prone. It made rasping sounds of pain from its crushed throat. But a moment later it started to rise up in the air, literally floating above the ground.

[info](Free attack of opportunity, roll 1d20+8, and 1d8+3, and 1d6)[/info]

It began speeding up higher towards the ceiling, then suddenly sped off going up the stairs.

Your other allies would have attempted to chase him down. But they weren't about to head up the stairs, not at least without recommendation from you.

"Let's end that creature!" Rekkart announced.

[info](Confirm if you want to tell them to stop, or keep going, talking is a free action)

Log
Aetius attacks and deals 24 damage, attempts to trip but fails.
Killian heads south to the western courtroom.
Halgrak attempts to grapple Tablark but fails.
Ebin attempts to grapple Tablark and succeeds.
Tablark claws his left eye out.[/info]

You score a hit as it began flying away, though it wasn't enough to take it down. "Aetius!" Rekkart called out as he was closing the gap to you, his weapon drawn out as well, his eyes were set at where the undead creature disappeared.

Aetius:

"Yes Rekkart?"

"That was Jarbin." The knight of Valtean said. "At least, his face, even though its distorted, rotting, and covered, is still familiar. I'm not sure what type of undead it is, but given what he did to Tablark. It's dangerous. Do we chase after?"

Tablark continued to laugh wildly. And though Halgrak and Ebin managed to pin him down. One of Tablark's eye, his left, was already gone. In its place was a bloodied red mess.

Aetius:

"Hmm... Ebin, knock him out. Madge, can you treat his face?" Yes we're out of time. "This place and it's secrets will have to remain a mystery." I call out "Killian. Did you get another torch going?" "Rekkart, we're getting slowly picked off and worn down. I don't know if Jarbin is really behind this or if something else is going on, but that's the closest thing to finishing this that my mind can fathom." I ask Patrissa to come over. "Patrissa, there's nothing that unnerves a group quicker than being surrounded, even battle hardened veterans will turn and route in a case like that. We're out of time to explore so I ask you this. Just in the great hall here. Can you use your magic and smash open all the doors around us open. If nothing else comes running out of them, I feel confident enough running up there to take down Jarbin." I also call out to Halgrak. "Take Tablark's sword. He
doesn't need it in his state anyway."

"Hehehe" Ebin chuckled to himself as he pounded the dwarf's face. Strangely, Tablark continued laughing even as was knocked about. "HEHEHE!" Ebin's mad laughing was almost on the same par as Tablark's, but the more he laughed, the more Ebin continued up his beating. Tablark's face was becoming bloodier and bloodier, but eventually the dwarf's laughing ceased.

Ebin however, didn't quite catch it, too much was the halfling jester caught up in the frenzy, He continued beating on the dwarf even after the dwarf was unconscious.

"Stop Ebin!" Sir Rekkart called out. But the halfling wouldn't listen.

While that was happening, Killian appeared again, holding a newly created torch, from the embers that Rekkart had started almost half an hour ago. If it wasn't for Tablark's earlier tending to the embers, it would have already been completely out. Killian's face was pale however. Paler than usual. His eyes were locked on to you, almost missing the scene Ebin was making.

"His body's gone." Killian said. "Malgrim's."

Patrissa had nodded. There was 3 door on the west that were still closed. While on the eastern part of the hall, there was 4 doors altogether that were still unexplored, with one of them being made out of steel or iron.

"Anything for you Aetius." She said slyly, but she began immediately into casting, sending orbs of acid one after the other, one door at a time.

[info](Patrissa will pause her spellcasting whenever she breaks through a door, for half a minute to ensure nothing comes out. Then move on to the next. Due to the fact that it takes quite a few blasts of her spell to take down a wooden door, you can assume this will take some time. I should mention it later, but telling you right now, that the iron/steel door to the east (door #7 on the grid map I sent earlier), is beyond Patrissa's abilities to destroy.)[/info]"Stop it Ebin!" Madge yelled. She could tell that the dwarf was already unconscious, but the halfling continued his relentless assault.

Tablark had dropped his sword when he was first assaulted, so the half orc, Halgrak went over to the weapon and picked it up. You notice that he admired it shortly, but moved towards you to give it back. When Killian came back mentioning Malgrim's body was gone. Halgrak only covered his face. You can hear him quietly telling everyone that they were all doomed.

Aetius:

I sprint over the Ebin and grab him by the throat. I lift him up into the air and bring him over to Halgrak. "I yell to Killian and Madge to stabilize Tablark." I hold Ebin up to Halgrak, right. "Halgrak, this. THIS is what a coward looks like. You can either let madness take you over or let it turn you into a coward. You are not yet dead, but if you have to die, do it in a way where they will write songs of your deeds." I press Erin's face right against mine. "If he dies I will will tear... every finger off of your hands and then your arms from your body." Now screaming into his face "AND BEAT THEM INTO YOUR SKULL!" Then I slam Ebin down into the floor right on his face. I catch my breath. And look at Rekkart, Halgrak, and Patrissa. "I need a moment... Tablark was a good man... reminds of a man I knew. Be careful, but quickly look through the doors we opened up. Then we'll finish this
" I take a deep breath. "I feared they would use Malgrim against us. So be it." I pop my neck.

[info](Good response, so +5 karma, and +200 RP exp)[/info]Halgrak was cowed as you brought Ebin up to him. The half-orc started to look down at his boots, but once you finished, Halgrak only nodded. He continued to look at you even as you smashed Ebin's face into the ground, as if he wanted to say something.

Ebin on the other hand, immediately got quiet as you pulled him up and yelled in his face. Your threatening had an immediate effect on the halfling and he only started to sweat. When you finally smashed him into the floor, the halfling just continued to lay on the ground with his nose bent and bleeding. It was then that Ebin started to chuckle again to himself, his eyes were wide, without looking at anything or anyone specific.

Madge had quickly clamored over to Tablark's unconscious form. She immediately pulled out her backpack, and pulled out the same healer's kit from before. She bit her lip tight as she began examining the wounds on the dwarf's face. Both the bleeding eye socket, as well as the new wounds that Ebin inflicted. His eyebrows and lips were cut. Already parts of his face started to bruise and swell. Tablark breathed shallowly, though he was still unconscious from the beating. Quickly, she began work, first wetting some clean cloth in the healer's kit with the antibacterial, then she began applying some sort of paste to the wounds. She continued working further, trying to close up the wounds, and using some bandages that she had as well.

[info](Madge's Healers kit is down to 3 uses remaining. Your healer's kit still has 8 uses)[/info]Shortly after you feel a hand on your shoulder. It was Killian.

"Malgrim had this." Killian said as he proceeded to hand you the spiked-chain, Grindle Slash, to you. You notice Halgrak's eyes widen, and surprisingly he spoke out, his voice seemingly more confident than how it had been since the night began.

"It was Malgrim who forced me to say guilty." Halgrak said, his voice barely a whisper.

Aetius:

"Here use my kit too." I put it on the ground and kick it over to Madge. "Does the area look secure?"

"Evil dwells here. But it's secure as it can be." Sir Rekkart replied.

Aetius:

"Madge How's Tablark? Is he safe to transport?"

Madge shook her head.

"It'll take him atleast a few days to get over those bruises. The cuts too. As for his eye..." She shook her head sadly. "Unless he pay a fortune for a cleric, he isn't going to get that back. But we can move him if needed."

Aetius:

"Once Jarbin is dead, we will all be safe. We'll go up there." I point to the left spiral staircase. "I'll go up first, next Killian, then Madge carrying Tablark, then Patrissa, Ebin, Halgrak, and Rekkart protecting the rear."

"Carrying?" Madge asked. "You mean dragging right? The dwarf is at least 300 lbs."

Strangely enough, Halgrak spoke up.

"I'll..." He said. "I'll help." His eyes were downcast, but he proceeded to sling the heavy dwarf on his shoulder.

[info](Halgrak is now considered heavily encumbered and will not fight)[/info]One by one, in a line, the group goes up the stairs. Aetius lead the way, followed by Killian who continued sipping on his silver flask, then Madge, then Patrissa who clutched her fire-opal amulet, next one Ebin, who's hat continued to slightly jingle as he walked up the stairs, his chuckling somewhat subsided, though there were times where he would start up again. Halgrak came next carrying Tablark's unconsious body. He took his steps slow and deliberate, though he kept his eyes upwards towards the direction of the stairs up. Finally Rekkart made up the rear as he continued to keep an eye behind them.

Rekkart's torch had about 20 or 15 minutes left of life, while Killian's still had about 45 minutes left until it was out. Both of their torches spread out in a 20 ft. radius, while beyond that was low-light stretching for another 20 ft.
Soon enough you made it up the stairs with everyone in tow. There were two double doors you had to pass through once everyone climbed up, but eventually a decorated room, though strewn with rubble, was before you. Fine leather couches and a mahogany table now covered in a thick layer of dust stand undisturbed around this chamber. Portraits line the walls here with plaques bearing names below, both now obscured with thick cobwebs. A simple iron icebox sits in one corner of the room, a few empty bottles perched precariously atop it.
The portraits alongside the walls catch your attention. Your eyes drawn towards them, and you start seeing another vision, much like the first one you had encountered when you first woke up. It was similar to that first vision, yet was much more detailed.

"Jarbin Mord. For the brutal and savage slaying of your own wife and six-year-old boy, it is the verdict of this jury, with which I concur wholeheartedly, that you shall hang by your neck until dead. May the gods take mercy on your blackened soul." Silence falls over the courtroom in the wake of this pronouncement of doom. The faces of the assembled crowd grow solemn as everyone feels the finality of the sentence, with a few exceptions. Several members of the assembled jury are smirking at each other. The hobgoblin, a female halfling, a halfling with a jester's hat, and young woman all seem both pleased and highly amused by this turn of events.

The vision suddenly vanishes, and your eyes up staring at the closest portrait on the wall. It was that same judge you saw in your vision. Beneath it was a placard that dictated his name clearly 'Silman Trabe'.


"You okay my boy?" Killian asked, noticing you seemed out of it. "There's an icebox in the corner." Killian stated, for the fact he carried with him the torch, and kept a good eye as he followed right behind you.

[info](I did not create the grid map for the second floor yet. For now assume its slightly smaller than the first floor 7 x 14 tiles. There are 4 exits, 1) a door to the southwest that's barely visible in the moonlight from the window next to it, 2) Staircase on the southeast that leads upwards. 3) a door to the east. 4) the double doors on the north which the part came out of, that leads to a small mini hall with both the stairs.)[/info]

Aetius:

I tell Rekkart to help the rest of the party craft some new torches and that I need just a minute to gather my thoughts. Once no one is immediately around me I turn over my shield to look over the crest on it. I am looking for some inspiration. I think about the state of my party, their wounds, and peer into my memories for any training, any fizzle of inspiration.

"Of course Aetius." Sir Rekkart responded as snapped to attention to take a look at the surroundings. He was specifically looking for any piece of rubble that they could convert into a makeshift torch. It didn't take him very long to find some suitable pieces, and along with Madge, Patrissa, and Killian began attempting to create torches. Ebin continued to chuckle slightly to himself, his unnatural mirth giving the scene an even more eerie feel. Halgrak continued to sling the unconscious dwarf on his shoulder. And whether or not it was from your speech earlier, he seemed to have calmed down more, though, he was sullen and quiet as ever. To his credit he did take the role of watching over both Tablark, on his shoulder, as well as keeping an eye on Ebin.

[info]The party's rummaging, and crafting will take a couple minutes.[/info]While the rest of the party was busy, you looking into your shield and emblem for inspiration. Going through your memories of training in the Order of the Light Eagle, as well as racking your mind for any clues or memories about your own parents. Specifically Varius, your father, who was one of the original jurors of the sentence a decade ago. You began going over everything that the jurors with you know claimed, as well as trying to make sense of the vision you had when you had first awoken in the courthouse, as well as the vision that you had just seen just moments ago.

[info]Overall: Intelligence: 12, Wisdom: 20, Sense Motive: 14[/info]As your thoughts wandered to the vision you just had, you considered the smirks that Malgrim, Madge, Ebin, and Patrissa had. Your time in the Order of the Light Eagle had given you some qualities about discerning others. Both Malgrim's and Patrissa's smirk had a sense of being pleased with themselves. While both Madge's and Ebin's smirk looked as if there was some hatred for Jarbin as well. You had a feeling that those particular four haven't told their full stories yet.

[info]Malgrim: Sense Motive: 10[/info]Malgrim was already dead so he was no longer able to answer any of your questions. But from the short time you had known him, as well as his willingness to claim he was in some sort of gang in the city, more than likely he had something to do with the guilty sentencing of Jarbin Mord. You recall that Halgrak had admitted that it was Malgrim who had forced the half-orc to sentence guilty, though you never had a chance to clarify what exactly had happened or the circumstances.

[info]Madge: Sense Motive: 10[/info]From Madge, you still weren't able to get a good reading from, though from the last time had gathered everyone around the fire on the first floor, you recall that Madge seemed to have been hiding something, or at least not telling the full story.

[info]Ebin: Sense Motive: 18[/info]You recall Ebin's story of why he sentenced Jarbin Mord as guilty, and his case was from simple vengeance. Jarbin Mord had upstaged him during an important councilman's birthday party, and the jester took offense that the fact a simple man had managed to do such a thing. His demeanor in the vision you just had aligned perfectly with his story.

[info]Patrissa: Sense Motive: 16[/info]It was from Patrissa's smirk in your vision that surprised you the most. During the time she had been in your group, there was little you could point to for anything suspicious.

In terms of the party's health, it was Sir Rekkart who seemed to be injured the most. He was already treated with the healer's kit earlier that day, so all that was left was simple resting, or magical healing possibly from the potions you carried with you. Tablark was still unconscious, with his left eye completely gone. His right eye was severely damaged as the dwarf continued to rake it, but it was still salvageable. He had wounds form when Ebin had begun beating him from earlier as well. Killian had wounds from the axe in the courtroom earlier that evening, though it wasn't anything serious. As for Ebin, the halfling had bruises on his face as well as cuts from you slamming him into the floor. His state of mind seemed to be the worst out of everyone however, as even now he continued to chuckle to himself.

You weren't quite sure how long you were thinking about the situation, but soon enough, it was who Patrissa tapped your shoulder. She had a wistful smile as she held out a torch in one of her hands.

"You seemed to be deep in thought so I apologize for interrupting, but we've finished creating the torches."

[info]Rough Time Estimate: 8:25 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Rekkart's Torch: 5 min left
Killian's Torch: 35 min left
Madge's Torch: 60 min left
Patrissa's Torch: 60 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 2, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)
[/info]

Aetius:

"Ohh, yes, thank you Patrissa. I was just drafting up a plan. We've come this far, we'd best not mess it up now." I walk closer to the remaining party members. "I have a few questions before we go up to face what evils lie ahead. Questions about Jarbin. I need to know a little more about the trial and your verdicts that day. We may need to go about fighting him another way... I simply want a quick vote, raise your hand if you agree, keep your hands down if you disagree. Just to keep things as open and free from guilt as possible please face away from each other and keep your eyes closed. Do not open them until I say to."

After they are ready I begin with my questions making sure to pay attention to hesitation.

1. I judged Jarbin based on the facts of his crime and was not impacted based on my prior knowledge of his character or encounters with him.

2. His death, the strongest penalty of law, was necessary as no other punishment would be sufficient for the crime he was tried for.

3. I was able to separate myself from this case so that I was acting purely for the sake of justice and could not benefit from Jarbin's death.

4. I can be laid to rest knowing justice was served the day of our verdict.

5. I would have handled things differently if I could go back in time to the time of the trial.

After voting is done I assess the parties moral as best as I can.

The group hesitated, though eventually they followed through with the commands, some more grudgingly than the others. Ebin had resisted the most, even Madge didn't think the questioning would be useful, and a flash in Halgrak's eyes told you he was starting to feel more lethargic and dismal. It took the counseling of Sir Rekkart to nudge the others into action, but soon enough the 6 turned around, and closed their eyes as you began your questions.

[info]Madge: Diplomacy: 10, Sense Motive: 25
Sir Rekkart: Diplomacy: 23, Sense Motive: 25
Patrissa: Diplomacy: 21, Sense Motive: 25
Killian: Diplomacy: 17, Sense Motive: 18
Halgrak: Diplomacy: 20, Sense Motive: 19
Ebin: Diplomacy: 21, Sense Motive: 17[/info]"I judged Jarbin based on the facts of his crime and was not impacted based on my prior knowledge of his character or encounters with him."

Madge was hesitant, and it took her longer to answer, she first slowly raised her hand, but she seemed to stop mid way. However, a second later, as if deciding something, she shot her hand back up. If anything this hesitance gave you an idea that Madge had not yet fully told her story.

Sir Rekkart listened intently to the question and raised his hand immediately. He had no hesitation and the way he raised his hand agreeing to the statement made you think he believed in his verdict wholeheartedly.

Patrissa raised her hand quietly.

Killian raised his hand quietly as well.

Halgrak did not raise his hand. He seemed to hesitate, and the question seemed to make him uncomfortable.

Ebin snorted and did not raise his hand. From his earlier confessions, you already knew he did this out of vengeance against Jarbin Mord, and you were surprised that he didn't attempt to conceal his reasoning for his verdict.

"His death, the strongest penalty of law, was necessary as no other punishment would be sufficient for the crime he was tried for."

Madge immediately raised her hand. From her movements, it was easy to tell that she was angry. But what exactly, was hard to tell.

Sir Rekkart raised his hand as well, though not as resolutely as the first question. He still believed wholeheartedly with the decision however, and you got the impression that Sir Rekkart, more so than the rest of the group, probably saw the world as black and white with no room for grey in between.

Patrissa raised her hand, you noticed she did this calmly.

Killian did not raise his hand, and he seemed to sigh, though caught it and stopped himself as he attempted to hide the sigh from the others.

Halgrak did not raise his hand, and he seemed to get into an even more dismal mood.

Ebin raised his hand immediately as well. He even began to chuckle to himself as the bells on his cap jingled with his sickening mirth.

"I was able to separate myself from this case so that I was acting purely for the sake of justice and could not benefit from Jarbin's death."

Madge hesitated. Like the first question she seemed to be in conflict about whether or not to raise her hand. In the end she raised it however. This only added to your belief that Madge had not fully told her story.

Sir Rekkart raised his hand quick and stoically. Like the knight he was, he truly believed it was for justice.

Patrissa once again raised her hand fluidly up in the air, a seemingly practiced motion.

Killian raised his hand as well, though wordlessly and not reacting much to the question.

Halgrak did not raise his hand. More so than the previous questions, he seemed to be very uncomfortable, he had even begun to cover his face and eyes with his two large hands.

Ebin did not raise his hand, but only continued to chuckle.

"I can be laid to rest knowing justice was served the day of our verdict."

Madge raised her hand up immediately again, though it didn't quite have the fire as compared to the second question asked.

Sir Rekkart raised his hand, truly believing in their actions.

Patrissa, like the times before, raised her hand again, calmly and precisely.

Killian raised his hand, and much like Patrissa was silent and did his best to remain calm.

Halgrak did not raise his hand, and instead he began to mumble incoherent words as he covered his face into his hands. He was visibly disturbed by the questioning.

Ebin who still chuckled simply raised his hand, the burden of conscious didn't seem to affect him much at all.

"I would have handled things differently if I could go back in time to the time of the trial."

Madge did not raise her hand.

Sir Rekkart did not raise his hand.

Patrissa did not raise her hand.

Killian raised his hand, and he seemed to do so with confidence.

Halgrak, shaken from his pitiful state did raise his hand up high.

Ebin, who only seemed to smirk throughout the entire thing, kept his hand down.

Final Impressions
Madge seemed to still continue hiding something from you. And the questions asked only seemed to accentuate this point. For Sir Rekkart, it was easy to tell that the knight held true to his beliefs, and would not waiver. Patrissa was harden to get a read from, however though she acted calmly, it almost felt as if she were acting, or reacting as if in a way that is expected. Killian seemed calmed, but you recall his sigh on question of Jarbin's capital punishment, you did not feel anything suspicious from the old man. Halgrak was a mess. You knew that Halgrak claimed that Malgrim had forced him into his verdict, and it seemed the entire trial of ten years ago was heavy in Halgrak's mind. From Ebin, surprisingly, you did not feel any sort of deceit, at the very least his actions and what he's told you so far aligned with his answers.

Area
The questioning took awhile, and Rekkart's torch had run out. Killian's, Madge's, and Patrissa's were still burning bright however. Sir Rekkart didn't bother with lightning one of the two extra make-shift torches, choosing to save them for a later time. Apart from the portraits on the wall, the only other defining feature of the area was the simple iron box in the corner of the room.

Aetius

I was going to take the party downstairs to a room we had cleared out, but not the one with the cursed axe. One with just one way in, and I was going to take the clock we blew up and make a barricade. I was going to pull down the banners that lined the walls either on the first or second floor, I don't remember and make, makeshift beds or at least more comfortable sleeping places and tell the party we need to rest. I tell them we're almost done, I know that, but we need to rest up and process everything that has happened. I also wanted to apologize to the party and explain to them that I  put understanding this creature and obliterating its evil above everything else, but I want them all to understand something... I don't want doubt to enter their minds. Our cause is just and that this machination is not the man you put on trial. It is a trick, an evil lie we can all kill together. There is dangers yes, but again I must stress to you this is not the man you put down. We must unite, we must be vigilant, but we have earned a rest. Then I want to put my hand on each of their shoulders, look them in the eyes and thank them for their bravery and have seen hardened veterans cower from less than this. I also want to keep my eyes on the jester at all times and ready knocking him out if he goes crazy again.

Soon enough, after the questioning was over, you left the upstairs room, traveling back down in the same formation that you had previously suggested. The only other room you knew to be safe was the one with all the carrionstorm, where Malgrim was brutally killed. Along the way you had gathered the banners you had seen earlier, along with getting both Sir Rekkart and Halgrak to gather as much rubble as they can from the central hall to the western courtoom. This included the broken down grandfather clock as well, which took the three of you to safely move the large thing into the courtroom. Sir Rekkart and Halgrak, other than yourself, was perhaps the only ones left you could count on with a strong-arm.

It was at this point you decided to go around trying to placate everyone's nerves.

[info]Diplomacy attempts:
20 Rekkart
19 Patricia
11 Killian
21 Halgrak
13 Ebin
17 madge[/info]One by one you talked to each of them, placing your hand on their shoulder thanking each one individually. They accepted it greatfully, save for Ebin who seemed to continue his slight chuckles and not even focusing on you as you looked towards him.

Halgrak
Halgrak was the most appreciative of your gesture however. The large half-orc only doubled his efforts on getting the barricade ready, making it a point to use up all his strength that he can muster to pick up some of the large pieces of furniture that could be used as a barricade. He had even mentioned Tablark, the dwarf's, carpenty tools that had nearly been forgotten. Being a craftsmen himself, Halgrak had begun showing both you and Sir Rekkart how to use the tools to both bolster and strengthen the future soon-to-be-created barricade.

[okay]+Extra hitpoints for barricade if its come to it[/okay]Patrissa and Killian
Patrissa smiled gently everytime she managed to catch your eye, and also lead in the effort for creating more torches. Killian had helped out as well, and eventually another 2 more make-shift torches were created and promptly handed to Sir Rekkart who had been keeping the rest of their makeshift torches.

[okay]+2 Makeshift Torches[/okay]Sir Rekkart and Halgrak
Sir Rekkart and you began setting up the barricades. Both for the door to the north of the courtroom, as well as the entrance the group had taken. Halgrak, being the physically strongest in the group, along with you, mainly kept going back and forth from the central hall to the courtroom, dragging and at times lifting benches and large wooden planks to be used to help with the barricade.

Tablark and Madge
Tablark, still unconscious, was left on a bench, reclined back with Madge still tending to him. He looked to be getting better, with his wounds being closed and tended. Though the swelling would still take at least a night to go away. At the very least, with Madge's persistent tending to the dwarf, the old dwarf's breathing was no longer shallow and hoarse.

"He'll live." Madge said quietly when you had looked towards them.

Ebin
You kept a close eye on Ebin throughout it all, as the halfling continued to chuckle almost randomly to himself, unnerving the rest of the group each time he did so.

For the next 30-45 minutes, the group had steadily created the northern barricade, with enough rubble and benches to create both barricades, everything was looking good. Makeshift rest areas using the banners were created as well, and overall, the mood of the group didn't get worse, though being stuck in the courthouse, it didn't quite get better either. Ebin was the most disturbed out of them all, and many times the halfling did little to help with the preparations. Killian's torch had eventually run out as well, though with the fact Madge's and Patrissa's torch burned, along with the two more extra torches they had created, he had chosen not to light another. After the first barricade to the north was completed, with the second one on its way to being completed, it was then that you noticed one among the group was missing.

Halgrak was gone.

[info]Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:15 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 15 min left
Patrissa's Torch: 15 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)[/info]

Aetius

I'm immediately going to go over to Rekkart, and whisper to him that Halgrak is gone in the most calm way possible and that I need to be on guard but to try and help maintain calm and security. That this is a mental war and we need to keep our spirits up. Then I'm going to have Ebin come with me and I'll tell the rest of the party that the two of us are going to help Halgrak and to keep taking a breather and working on the barricade. Then I nod and go in the direction we last saw Halgrak going very quickly igniting my shield as we leave the room.

The last time you had seen Halgrak was him walking out towards the great hall again. His last item he had brought over was a large bench, and as you took a look at the great hall, you realized it must have come from the eastern courtroom. The one that you and the others first had appeared in. Ebin followed closesly behind, his eyes blank, but still occationally chuckling to himself. The halfling probably never even realized Halgrak had been missing for longer than what was expected. The jester's light chuckling seemed to echo off the walls, making the sound seem more eerie than it actually was.

At this point you willed your shield to glow, the minor enchantment on it softly giving you enough light to be able to see the way forward. The central hall of the courthouse had been mostly picked clean by Halgrak, with most of the furniture already moved into the western courthouse. You notice that the doors to the eastern courtroom were ajar as well. Not only that, the door just north of the eastern courtroom was open too.

[info]You can roll Survival, 1d20+5, to attempt to track where Halgrak might've gone. Or just explore.[/info][info]Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:15 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 15 min left
Patrissa's Torch: 15 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)[/info]

Aetius

I would like to try to use survival and call out Halgrak's name. I also ask Ebin if he sees anything. Also if I have time in this turn without risking Halgrak's life anymore I want to see if I can figure out what is wrong with Ebin. If he's possessed in terrible shock, or something else.

Quotesurvival is 12
Perception is 13
Heal check is 21
Religion is 28

Looking for any more hints or tracks that Halgrak might've left behind, you weren't able to get a lot of new information. The only thing that you noted was that the layer of dust on the floor leading towards the eastern room was a lot more thinned out. The door north of the eastern courtroom had been ajar, but you couldn't see any reasoning why it might've been that way.

Examining Ebin, the first thing you noticed was his dilated pupils, his eyes seemingly larger than what you remember when you had first seen him. His face was stuck in a half smile, as occasional chuckles escaped his lips, and though he looked at you, he didn't seem to focus at you at all. This was no possession that you were aware of, and give his symptoms and his increased heart rate and shallow breathing, you assume the halfling to be in shock.

Aetius

I let out a prayer for Halgrak that he be protected from evils and that he be safe. I then kneel in front of Ebin and give him a little shake. "Ebin, you gotta snap out of this, hey now look at me... look Halgrak is in trouble, I can't do this alone." I give him another shake. "Are you in there? Can you hear me?" You have to wake up! I need your help to save Halgrak. Do you understand?"

Ebin started to visibly calm. His eyes started focusing on you as he blinked a couple of times. His eyes started getting some clarity again as you looked him in the eye. Something clicked in him that moment, as he seemed to process the events that had happened since the undead thing that seemed to be Jarbin Mord first appeared.

"He's probably already dead! Dead like Malgrim! Dead like Malgrim!" Ebin cried out, the first words he'd spoken in awhile. However, you see his face turn ashen once again.

"Dead... like... Malgrim..."

[info]Roll Perception, 1d20+5[/info]

Aetius

QuotePerception: 19

You didn't need to see Ebin's ashen face to realize something had spooked the halfling. All you needed was that cue, and with the slight sound of something rustling right behind you. You immediately turned around to see Malgrim.

No. It was not Malgrim, but an abomination of what was once the hobgoblin and leader of the Grindle Street Shades. His neck had various holes punctured in them, and savage gashes with coatings of ice speckled around the wound marks - the wounds his own weapon had inflicted on him when he was first found hanging on his own spiked chain weapon. His throat had been completely torn, with enough of his flesh torn away to reveal a slight amount of the darkened bone of his neck. Blood had poured down his throat, dyeing his clothes in that deep stain of crimson red, all the way down to his very boots.

The zombie had been trying to sneak up on you, and if it weren't for your keen senses, the creature may have very well have attacked first.

[info]Roll Initiative. 1d20+2.[/info]

Aetius

I yell out to Rekkart to protect Madge and Tablark behind the barricade, I yell to Patrissa to help me destroy the creature but to keep her distance and to retreat to the barricade if she came under attack. I tell Ebin that I need him to see if he can find Halgrak and I point in the direction of the room that had a less dust when I started looking for clues as to where Halgrak went. I then beat my spear and shield and yell at the remains of Malgrim.

Initiative 10

The undead abomination lurches forward, attempting to slam his body and wailing arms against you, but you were prepared for the blow, you attempted to side step out of the way, but you had easily deflected the attack with your shield.

From behind you, you see the others preparing as well. Sir Rekkart had begun barking commands to those in the courtroom, while Patrissa moved to the entrance of the courtroom, preparing to unleash her spells. Ebin, however, though calmed initially from your attempt to placate him, started to crack.

"No! No! No!" Ebin cried, his voice full of fear. He began to step back, stumbling, and finding himself tripping.

QuoteLog
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Ebin
Aetius
Everyone else

Aetius

I would like to move so that I'm in between Malgrim and Ebin so that he has to go through me to attack Ebin. I want to see if I can figure out where the force that is controlling Malgrim is coming from, and I want to stab Malgrim's corpse, trying to sever his already damaged neck. I'll yell to Ebin to get up, snap out of it and look for Halgrak.

Quote14 for hit 7 for dmg

As you moved towards the halfling, becoming a living shield for the frightened jester, you struck out with your weapon as well. However, Malgrim moved just enough that your weapon skidded against the bloodied armor that the undead wore.

There are different types of undead, some with a higher will propelling their minions to do their bidding, and others more feral, simply risen up without any specific commands from their creator. That said the supernatural has a way of challenging the so-called norms, but without any specific magical spells or more information it would be hard to figure out exactly how a specific undead came to being.

As you yelled for Ebin to get back up, using your peripheral vision to scan for any whereabouts of Halgrak, the halfling Ebin started to pick himself up. You see no sign of Halgrak, figuring he might be deeper into the complex. The door to the eastern courtroom was still open, and like before you noted the lack of dust going to and fro from the eastern courtroom to the central hall. Likewise the room north of the eastern courtroom had its door open as well.

That done, the panicked halfling began to get away from the combat. His eyes full of panic.

"Dead! Dead! Dead! We're all going to die! Die Die! Die! Heheheehee." The halfling began chuckling then, as he stumbled away from the fighting, almost tripping at times, moving away northwards.

QuoteLog
Round 1
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.
Aetius 5 ft. steps to be in between Malgrim and Ebin. Attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash dealing 6 damage to Malgrim.
Round 2
Malgrim attacks hits and deals 9 damage.
Ebin picks himself up from Prone position, moves 30 ft. north.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Ebin
Aetius
Everyone else

Damage Taken This Encounter
Malgrim: 6
Aetius: 9

Aetius:

I want to attack the creature again.

Quote22 for hit 6 for damage.

I yell out to Ebin, "What do you see over there?"

But Ebin didn't respond, he only continued to chuckle madly as he continued moving further off northwards into the darkness.

The undead Malgrim seemed to groan, as a strange gurgling sound came from its bloodied mouth. This caused more of the remaining blood in the hobgoblins body to spurt out from his neck. The creature lunged forward again in a rush. It managed to avoid your shield, striking you, but your armor managed deflect the blow.

QuoteLog
Round 1
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.
Aetius 5 ft. steps to be in between Malgrim and Ebin. Attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 6 damage to Malgrim.
Round 2
Malgrim attacks hits and deals 9 damage.
Ebin picks himself up from Prone position, moves 30 ft. north.
Aetius attacks and deals 6 damage.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 5 damage to Malgrim.
Round 3.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin moves 30 ft. north again, no longer visible.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Ebin
Aetius
Everyone else

Damage Taken This Encounter
Malgrim: 17
Aetius: 9

Aetius

I'd like to first see if I can figure out if this creature is close to falling. Then I want to see if I can judge how I'm feeling. If I feel like this creature is infected or going to infect me with something. (Also check how many hit points I have left) then I'll attack the creature again.

16 hit

8 damage

Attacking the creature with your spear, you miss.  It attempted to move away, but it was too slow. Again, it was the creature's armor and its tougher hide that blocked your attack. Judging by the wounds inflicted on the undead, you surmise it was half to nearing its second death.

Malgrim lunges forward again, but misses.

[info]Aetius HP: 53/67[/info]

QuoteLog
Round 1
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.
Aetius 5 ft. steps to be in between Malgrim and Ebin. Attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 6 damage to Malgrim.
Round 2
Malgrim attacks hits and deals 9 damage.
Ebin picks himself up from Prone position, moves 30 ft. north.
Aetius attacks and deals 6 damage.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 5 damage to Malgrim.
Round 3.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin moves 30 ft. north again, no longer visible.
Aetius attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash and misses.
Round 4.
Malgrim attacks and misses.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Aetius
Everyone else

Damage Taken This Encounter
Malgrim: 17
Aetius: 9

Aetius

"Be you a man or beast in that husk stand and fight me and let them sing that Malgrim stood, and fought, and died where he stood. I know there is still a leader with a shread of honor left in you! ON YOUR GUARD!" As I throw his old weapon to his feet and try to set my shield glowing as bright as I can. I ready my sword and shield to counter his next attack and yell to my party behind the barricades and Patrissa the direction that Ebin went in and tell them that we all need to hurry if we're going to save him and Halgrak but we have to move!

Sir Rekkart and Patrissa came out of the courtroom. They started making their way up north, keeping their eyes open. Patrissa managed to cast another spell directed at Malgrim, however, her spell missed again.

The unintelligent zombie that was Malgrim,  paid no heed to your words, and only seemed to gurgle in response. He stepped over his own weapon, the chain's enchantments triggering then, causing cold ice to form on the sole of his bloodied shoes, but Malgrim only kept going forward as he attempted to lunge yet again at Aetius. However, you were more than prepared, and this time even dodging out of the way proved useful.

QuoteLog
Round 1
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.
Aetius 5 ft. steps to be in between Malgrim and Ebin. Attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 6 damage to Malgrim.
Round 2
Malgrim attacks hits and deals 9 damage.
Ebin picks himself up from Prone position, moves 30 ft. north.
Aetius attacks and deals 6 damage.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 5 damage to Malgrim.
Round 3.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin moves 30 ft. north again, no longer visible.
Aetius attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash and misses.
Round 4.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Aetius activates Total Defense
Patrissa casts Acid Splash and misses.
Everyone else moves up north looking for Ebin.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Aetius
Everyone else

Damage Taken (not including PCs)
Malgrim: 17

Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:15 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 15 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 15 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)

Aetius

QuoteAttacks

Atk: 22
Dmg: 8

You struck out again at Malgrim, scoring a hit. You see your companions making further distance. Both Sir Rekkart and Patrissa had moved further north, and it seemed as if Sir Rekkart had seen something, and the two disappeared into a new room to the north east corner of the central hall.

But the zombie didn't relent, and as soon as you marked Rekkart and Patrissa moving on, the undead zombie lashed out, but as before, you had been prepared, and using your shield, blocked his attack. The creature was looking more haggard, and you knew it wouldn't be long until Malgrim would experience his second death.

QuoteLog
Round 1
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin steps back, trips, and is prone.
Aetius 5 ft. steps to be in between Malgrim and Ebin. Attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 6 damage to Malgrim.
Round 2
Malgrim attacks hits and deals 9 damage.
Ebin picks himself up from Prone position, moves 30 ft. north.
Aetius attacks and deals 6 damage.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash, crits, dealing 5 damage to Malgrim.
Round 3.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Ebin moves 30 ft. north again, no longer visible.
Aetius attacks and misses.
Patrissa casts Acid Splash and misses.
Round 4.
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Aetius activates Total Defense
Patrissa casts Acid Splash and misses.
Everyone else moves up north looking for Ebin.
Round 5
Malgrim attacks and misses.
Aetius attacks and deals 8 damage.
Everyone else moves up north again looking for Ebin and disappearing from view.
Round 6
Malgrim attacks and misses.

Initiative Order
Malgrim
Aetius
Everyone else

Damage Taken (not including PCs)
Malgrim: 25

Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:15 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 15 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 15 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)

Aetius

"What do you see Rekkart?" I yell as I strike again at Malgrim

Hit 27 damage 6

You struck hard, Using your spear, you drove the weapon right into what remained of Malgrim's neck. The force was enough to dislodge his head from the rest of the body, and the zombie fell down into a crumpled mess, falling down right on top of his old weapon which further pierced his body and freezing as well.

"Halgrak? By Valtean!" Sir Rekkart cried out. "Aetius!"

You heard what sounded like Sir Rekkart drawing out his weapon. Both eh and Patrissa disappeared off into a door to the northeast.

QuoteRoll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:15 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 15 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 15 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)

Aetius

I'd like to reach down into the ice, grab the flail and slam it down into Malgrim's head smashing his skull. Then I'll rush over to the doorway and peak in.

Grabbing his weapon, the spiked chain, you used it to further smash Malgrim's skull. Gore stained the ground, as bits of his brain had splattered. The grim work complete, putting away the spiked chain, you made your way towards where Sir Rekkart and Patrissa had disappeared off to. As you neared, you heard the songs of fighting, as if sword was being swung at something like wood, along with sounds of stone hitting stone. It was a confusing amount of sounds. You only increased your speed, and as you finally reached the door and peered in, you saw what was happening.

This open-air chamber resembles a large cage. On the other side of the bars lies a dug-up potter's field where the bodies of criminals rest in unmarked graves. Beyond that was a clear view of the dilapidated part of the city where the courthouse was located at. Cracked buildings slump against each other in the distance, many already collapsed into piles of rubble. Shadows move between the old stores and dance in the broken maws of their cracked front windows. For a second, a few pairs of red eyes peek out from the inky black, only to be swallowed up again. The cage here is empty save a stocks, where painfully hobbled criminals wallowed to the joy of onlookers, who spent their own frustrations by hurling rotting fruit at the accused.

Sir Rekkart looked like he was placed into that same set of wooden stockades. His head and arms locked in, the paladin was trying valiantly to struggle against it, attempting to get away and push the stockades off of him. But it was no use. There were chains hovering about him, wrapped around him tight. Every time he seemed to make some distance and progress, the stockades would clamp at him, and the chains help drag him further away. The paladin struggled, and when he saw you he called out.

"The stockades are cursed! They move by their own will!" The sound of sword hitting wood earlier was Sir Rekkart undoubtedly trying to destroy the stockade that had a life of its own.

Patrissa on the other hand, had her arms out in an 'X' in front of her. It was then that the second sound you heard, of stone hitting stone finally made sense. There were 6 zombies on the other side of the bars. Each one wearing nooses drooped around their neck. Behind them you see 6 of disturbed soil, presumably where the zombies had risen from. The undead creatures were throwing rocks towards both Sir Rekkart and Patrissa, and as you peered out as well, a rock was thrown right at you. You brought up your shield just in time however, and the reverberating sound of stone against metal rung out. Patrissa kept her hands up in the 'X', trying to prevent any of the stones from hitting her face.

It was then that you saw what looked to be Halgrak at the furthest corner from you, near the bars. Something seemed wrong however. He seemed to be hunched down, completely oblivious to what was happening around him. He had an open jar before him along with his shoe to the side. His foot was completely bare, and you realized that Halgrak was missing his toes. He seemed busy however, and looked like he was stitching something to his bare right foot with a needle and thread. It was then to your horror that you realized he was stitching on what looked to be toes.

QuoteRoll initiative!

Aetius

QuoteInitiative: 22

QuoteLog
Round 1

Initiative Order
Aetius
Zombies
Cage
Rekkart
Patrissa

Damage Taken (not including PCs)

Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:16 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 14 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 14 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)

Aetius
I rush to Patrissa and use my shield to protect her and I from the rocks then I assess the situation. Has patrissa been hit in critical places or is she very injured? Then I look over at Rekkart, is his armor protecting him at all and is Halgrak under some spell or something that is making him act this way.

I yell to Patrissa to stay down, we're going to make our way to Rekkart. I need her to use her magic to melt the trap that binds him. I yell to Rekkart to yank on the trap and try to turn his body so the maximum amount of his armor is protecting him.

Examining both Patrissa and Rekkart, the two hadn't taken too much damage yet. You do notice that a bruise was starting to form on Patrissa's forehead, likely one of the stones managed to hit her. As for the paladin, the stones had mainly just clinked off his armor. Looking towards Halgrak, you get the same impression from him as from Tablark when the dwarf was first assaulted by the hunched undead figure from earlier that night.

You made your way in front of Patrissa, holding your shield in front of you. At that moment another barrage of stones came, hitting your shield but doing no damage.

At that moment, Patrissa too, aimed towards the stockade that held Sir Rekkart fast and launched a spell. However, her orb of acid missed.

"Stand still!" Patrissa shouted out.

"If.... only... I could!" Sir Rekkart responded back, and as he did so, the stockade pulled down on him again, causing the paladin to fall flat on the ground. The chains continued to hold his arms taught. The knight and the animated stockade continued to 'wrestle', as both went down in a heap, rolling with neither side getting the advantage.

In the meantime, Halgrak continued stitching the toes one by one...

QuoteLog
Round 1
Aetius uses Total Defense
Zombies attack and miss.
Patrissa attacks animated stockade but misses.

Initiative Order
Aetius
Zombies
Cage
Rekkart
Patrissa

Damage Taken (not including PCs)

Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:16 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 14 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 14 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)

Aetius

I'm going to creep closer to Rekkart with patrissa behind me so that she can take a better shot at the trap Rekkart is fighting with. I also want to call out to Halgrak, see if he responds to me.

Calling out to Halgrak, he didn't seem to respond. The half-orc seemed to continue ignoring what was happening around him as he continued piercing his skin, trying to stitch back on the green and pickled toes. You continued to have your shield up, acting as a shield for Patrissa, as the magic-user blasted off another spell. This time, the spell hit, however, the acid only lightly grazed the animated stocks. The chains than began wrapping around Sir Rekkart's neck, tightening and tightening. The knight attempted to resist, but the stockades had him held tight. He was completely pinned by the stockades, and the knight wasn't able to move at all.

"Aetius, help me destroy that thing!" Patrissa called, after realizing that even when her spell hit, it didn't do very much to the object.

QuoteLog
Round 1
Aetius uses Total Defense
Zombies attack and miss.
Stockade grapples Sir Rekkart, succeeds.
Sir Rekkart attempts to free himself, fails.
Patrissa attacks animated stockade but misses.
Aetius moves forward.
Stockade attempts to pin Sir Rekkart, succeeds.
Sir Rekkart attempts to free himself, fails.
Patrissa attacks animated stock and deals 1 damage.

Initiative Order
Aetius
Zombies
Cage
Rekkart
Patrissa

Damage Taken (not including PCs)

Roll20 Link: https://app.roll20.net/join/1522231/DzXnWg

Rough Time Estimate: 9:16 PM

Resources:
Madge's Healing kit: 3 uses left
Aetius' healing kit: 8 uses left
Madge's Torch: 14 min left
Rekkart's Torch: 14 min left

Relevant Inventory
Malgrim's Spiked Chain "Grindle-Slash", currently in Aetius' inventory
Unlit Torches: 4, currently in Rekkart's inventory
Potion of Cure Light Wounds: 5, in Aetius' inventory
Sack containing Carrionbird, in Aetius' inventory

NPC Inventory
Halgrak: leather tool belt, mwk hammer, tongs.
Ebin: mwk sap, patched motley (his jester outfit), coxcomb (his hat).
Patrissa: feather token (whip), mwk dagger concealed in garter sheath, necklace of 12 fire opals, ruby ring of protection +1, sequined red evening gown, two of pentacles from a deck of illusion (illusion of herself).
Killian: potion of cat's grace other gear +1 dagger (concealed in belt buckle), padded costume (and armor), rapier disguised as a silver (lead-weighted) cane, 4 throwing darts fashioned into quill-pens (coated with blue whinnis), two identical flasks (one filled with brandy, the other with his potion of cat's grace).
Sir Rekkart: +1 banded mail, +1 longsword, silver snuff box (30 gp), ten pinches of Tullen snuff (10 gp).
Madge: 4 mwk daggers, mwk padded armor, mwk thieves' tools, small backpack, 50 ft. of silk rope, healer's kit
Tablark: leather jerkin and pants (counts as leather armor), mwk carpenter's tools.

Current Status/Damage Taken:
Aetius: 14, already used treat deadly wounds
Madge: 0
Sir Rekkart: 5, already used treat deadly wounds
Patrissa: 0, -1 Will
Tablark: 0, -1 Will, already used treat deadly wounds, unconscious
Killian: 2,  already used treat deadly wounds
Halgrak: 0, -3 Will,  already used treat deadly wounds
Ebin: 3, already used treat deadly wounds)
Animated Stocks: 1