Thread 5: Frost 5, 17th Year of Emperor Humbolt II

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah looks to Brit awaiting instructions.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora sees everyone looking at Brit and sighs, exasperated. Who made her the leader anyhow?

"Can you all move please so I can just toast her already? Send her back to the abyss, whatever? I'm sure another couple of bolts will do it."

[Chris Chandler]

To her credit, the vast majority of the colonists heed our little feykin's advice. All but Brit and Kirfah take a good step away.

Do you two hold your ground or back off?

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah backs up.
"We don't have to kill her. She is defeated. We could hold her captive and take her to Juren. Just a thought."

[LightBringer]

Brit continues to stand there, staring at her "Oh, why didn't you die. All you had to do was stop breathing, and this would be over. Nooo, you couldn't do that! Was it out of spite?! Or just your sheer desire for victory!? IF you force me to kill you, do you win? DO I lose? Is there a second motive? If I kill you do you get stronger? If I leave you alive, do I condemn us to death? STOP BREATHING DAMN IT!!! How do I contain you, if I let you live? How do I contain you if I cut your throat? How do I let you live after all the death, and pain you've caused?? Who made me judge, jury, executioner? I fought you to a stand still. We stopped your plan, but you refuse to die. Why are you STILL BREATHING!! Damn it all!!"

Brit's chest heaves with a heavy sigh, and a raised arm in front of Zora "NO. We will take her prisoner, and hold her for a real trial." Looking around, "We've accomplished our task. We've stopped her!" Looking at the bitch, "I will not send you on your way to your precious Foster. You have much to answer for. Agatha help me with her."

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah nods.
"We can set up a place to hold her, somewhere she won't be a threat to the children. Only those who have a knowledge of magic should watch her, but we can manage until we are ready to take her to Juren. We can do this Brit." Kirfah lends a hand securing the Mistress as best he can.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora frowns, "Fine."

Trial. Yay law! My fave! The law of the wild would have worked just fine for me, and we'd be done with this... But it worked and Brit's acting right so nyahhhh.

[Chris Chandler]

Leif and Sharad throw their broad shoulders into the work and truss up the woman quite nicely. Unless she can pull that bloated-giant-spider-demon trick again, she's not likely to go anywhere.

Orvokki suggests one of the manors as a prison.

Preferably the Cross Manor. Wine, er sorry, Beer cellar should do well, don't you think?

One of the werebats speaks up -

<You aren't going to kill her!? She is a monstrous, horrible fiend. She cursed us! Cursed us all!>

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah will translate what the werebats say, but doesn't make a response. He's willing to translate one, but has his brain focused on the logistical issues of the prisoner too intently to conjure his own.

[Chris Chandler]

Leif will absently nod at the werebat's words, but both Gunther and Sharad shake their heads. Sharad speaks.

No. Even in this time and place we should not put aside our laws out of convenience or a misplaced sense of honor. This woman should be properly tried. We may even learn some of her motive from her testimony and that of these pitiful creatures.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora keeps her mouth shut, silently agreeing with both sides of the argument.

[LightBringer]

Brit listens, and then responds.

"Yes, the manor is where my thoughts where headed as well. Leif be sure to blindfold and gag her as well. We'll need to develop a set of gloves that will restrict her hand movements. Perhaps something as simple as a set that barely fits her hands, with the fingers sewn together, and both gloves sewn together as well."

Looking at Kirfah, "Tell the werebats, 'If she was such a monster and horrible fiend then they should have destroyed her themselves, and saved the world all the trouble she caused. I have no time or desire to hear what they think we should do. This is your last and only opportunity to leave this colony and never return!' " Brit stares at the werebat who spoke , and taps her foot impatiently as Kirfah translates.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora looks at her sister, shocked, but then realization dawning on her face. She doesn't see what I see here.

She's quick to intercede before any translation occurs, no matter how Brit's tapping her foot. "Hey, Kirfah, hang on a sec before you translate that. Brit... don't you think that perhaps they were enslaved as were Kenizk and Ember? I don't think that their affliction is natural. I actually wanted to look at helping them."

[LightBringer]

After a moment of review, and in a neutral tone, "Kenizk was trapped and used through fear. He never actually attacked us, and tried his best to help. Ember was physically trapped and used as a source of power. He never directly attacked us of his own accord."

Looking back towards the bats, "Regardless if they were cursed, their enslavement appears to be voluntary, as they chose not to die in the battle, instead of fighting to the death, as someone under actual mind control would have. They chose their side, and directly attacked our community. I for one would prefer not to have someone around who may suddenly decide to help her out again. Secondly, if her death would free them, as his statement implies, then that will happen in time, if she is found guilty and worthy of death."

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah has nothing to say on the situation and remains silent, awaiting the Cross sisters to come to a resolution.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora nods, "I understand that. All I ask for is a bit of gentleness and mercy in our wording, so that we may help them further and turn them to a better path if we can later. I know it's ironic, because I wouldn't show a shred of mercy towards her, yet you argue for her to have a fair trial."

Zora gives a little half smile and a shrug.

[LightBringer]

"My wording is as gentle and mercy-filled as it will ever be. Flee and live. If you wish to allow these creatures to stay, you can deal with them. Keep them away from me, and most especially her." Brit points at the Gen, "If I even think they are trying to help her in any way, they had best pray, that they have the sheer spite that she is using to continue to defy death and keep breathing." Brit places her hand on Zoras' shoulder. Looking at her sister with with weary eyes, as the anger begins to fade. A very slight upturn at one corner of her mouth, "Okay?"

[LadyGlutter]

Zora's smile broadens, and she says, "Deal! In fact, I'm sure can find them if they want to give directions for us to help break that curse later on. Okay, Kirfah, translate the end result of that however you feel best. "

She smiles a bit bigger at that.

[Chris Chandler]

((Once Kirfah presents the translation, and has whatever reaction he may have, I'll move on. Things will likely move a bit quickly for a few posts. Is that cool with everyone?))

[Dalcassius]

<"We have discussed the situation. It is not acceptable that you remain near Last Breath, but if you give us the details to locate you, we will attempt to aid you in the removal of your affliction after we have dealt with the Mistress. Unfortunately, we don't feel we can have you near our people or her at the moment. I hope you will understand."> Kirfah seems a little distracted as he speaks with the were-bats as he also tries to keep one eye on the mistress. When he's said his piece, Kirfah will give the creatures a chance to speak on their behalf. When all is said and done, he is grateful to get everyone on their way and get to the task of getting the Mistress secured.

[Chris Chandler]

Another one of the cursed creatures speaks -

<We shall gather together and travel to the White Salt Flats. My people were of the Zuihou whose territory spread near there. I know of some caves where we can winter. We shall wait for your aid, and, if there is nothing you can do, we shall fly west, to the foothills, once spring arrives.>

The remaining lycanthropes remain silent, content to defer to this one.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora smiles and whispers, "Well done."

[LightBringer]

Once the Gen is secured in the wine cellar, and a set of guards Brit trust to be able to ignore/withstand her are assigned and standing guard, Brit talks with Zora and Kirfah somewhere quiet and out of the way.

"Okay guys, I don't know where you stand, but I'd rather wait for someone more neutral to the events to preside over this trial. I'd really love if mom and dad were to get back soon, but that's not going to happen. Juren is a long way off, and we barely made the trip once. What do you guys think?"

[LadyGlutter]

Zora thinks carefully. "Who is going to be neutral really, around here? She's pretty much made enemies of all the land. Let the forest themselves preside? I think swift justice is plain and would be a mercy, myself. Allowing her to live much longer might doom us all.

Failing that idea, I can get Lia to take me to Juren via treestride, and I could bring someone back to preside. Who would be appropriate?"

[Chris Chandler]

((Just waiting on Kirfah's contribution to the conversation))

[Dalcassius]

"We could preside over her ourselves, but we are not free of prejudice against her; any punishment we decide on couldn't be truly called justice. It would only bring us to her level. I think someone from Juren, removed from any experiences with the Mistress and trained in the actions of the law would be the fairest plan. Brit, you are correct that we might not make the trip, especially in the grip of winter. If your friend Lia would be willing to help us retrieve someone from Juren it would be most exceptional. The key is if she is willing to help us and someone in Juren is willing to come to us."

[Chris Chandler]

There is a murmer amongst the colonists, some of whom clearly want immediate "hard justice", but there are others who are more cool headed. Lassi and Orvokki, for example, want to send for someone from Juren, whereas Leif would sooner have the gen woman dead now.

Sharad, Hoylur, and Gunther are siding with Zora's suggestion. Breena does not.

[LightBringer]

Ignoring evryone else!

Brit ask Zora, "Do you think your druidic friend would be fair enough and interested in helping us?"

[LadyGlutter]

"It's a leap of faith. I do think he would be fair enough. Interested in leaving his grove would take a bit of talking, but I think I might convince him to do that, too. Siaming is on the council in Juren, so he'd be an excellent choice.

There was also that associate of Dad's in Juren, if you wanted a tribunal. If you're coming with me, Brit, that'd help. He thought a lot of you. Olaf could be the Theshian representative. I understand it is ad hoc at best but we're in a bind and everyone here is her victim.

I think that it would be good to get a local representative from the Ziuhou as well. Kirfah could work on that.

The other benefits I see to bringing those two up here is Olaf could help restore some order, serve as bailiff or gaffer for a bit, if he wanted. Siaming could help us with some of the havoc that has occurred on the land. She poisoned the waters and wrecked the countryside. It's more work than I can take on alone."

[LightBringer]

"Sounds like an excellent idea." There's actually the slightest sound of hope in Brit's voice. "I'd be happy to travel with you if your friends don't mind me going."

[LadyGlutter]

Are you kidding me? I'd love for you to come! It's going to be awkward enough without company.

[Chris Chandler]

I believe that seems like an acceptable, agreed-upon plan. You can head out to see Lia immediately. It's still early enough in the day that travel to Juren would be feasible.

Is there anything that needs to be done before you head to Lia?

[LightBringer]

Just make sure Brit approves of the guard list, and containment procedures before she leaves, and makes sure the order that no one is to harm the Gen is understood!!

[LadyGlutter]

Zora's good, other than finding out what her name is if at all possible, because it's very awkward to keep calling her the Gen. She also warns any would-be poisoners of the possible effects of trying to infect her with the Bloodbrow out of revenge. That plan already occurred to Zora, and she realized that before it completely weakens someone they get those bursts of strength, and if she were to do that and be stuck in the rut of getting free... It'd be bad mojo. Just in case anyone else was thinking to poison her food, it's a bad idea.

[Chris Chandler]

After some coaxing, she'll divulge her name, Narantsetseg, which means "Sunflower" amongnst the Zuihou.

Lief, Gunther, Lassi, Orvokki, and Sharad will rotate as guards until you return with Lia. To that.

Do you have anything to add, Ozan?

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah smiles at the group as consise action is decided upon.
"It is a good plan. I seems that our woes will soon be over. We will need only to look to surviving until the thaw. I am as relieved as Huol-yund when the great Desmondu accepted the sacrificial offer of his prized osterich."

[Chris Chandler]

Okay with that, I think that we can move forward. Zora can meet with Lia, who will then transport her and Brit to Juren, specifically the royal gardens. There, you can both easily contact Olaf and Siaming. Zora, Is there anything that you need to do while in Lia's grove before the trip, or can anything perhaps wait until the return, or do you have business in the grove that cannot wait?

[LadyGlutter]

Nope, let's jet.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, with Kirfah holding down the fort up here, Brit and Zora will rootwalk with Lia to the Royal Gardens of Juren, where they will quickly be greeted by the sounds of a confrontation. A group of people are arguing along one of the rows of pear trees. The people are talking so fast that it's hard to get the gist of the conversation, but it seems to concern some of the harvest stores.

Now then, the Gardens lie between the main walled city (where most of the Jiating nobility reside, and where The Tiger keeps his inn) and the harbor (where Olaf's headquarters is located). Many Jiating live outside of the city walls, and even in the winter there are a number of people enjoying the beauty of the gardens. Zora, like normal, will likely be mistaken for a Gen, but Brit has the classic, distictive features of a Theshian woman, and, as such, the people who may see her will notice.

So how would you like to approach the situation? Lia will stay within this cedar while the two of you reconnoiter.


Kirfah, is there anything that you have in mind for the colony while the girls are away? It's likely only going to be no more than a day, if that long, but there's always stuff to do.

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah's thoughts are centered on keeping everyone safe. The two hazards at the moment are the Mistress and winter. All of the adults here have survived 10 winters in Last Breath and however many more in their previous lives, so that can be left to the others. Kirfah will spend his time making sure that there are no means of escape for the Mistress. With her hands bound in Brits ingenious anti-somatic gloves and a gag and blindfold securely placed her options are truly limited. Kirfah will search her for any material belongings and remove all except her clothing. He will use detect magic to ensure nothing of use to her gets missed. Her ankles will be bound together as well with a short rope attached to a stake driven into the ground. Two guards at all times both are to be actually in the beer cellar with her, not standing outside. No one speaks to her. If at all possible, a caster with her at all times. Kirfah and Gunther I'm sure will volunteer. It would be a huge help if we could get Hoylur to volunteer so that will be Kifah's second task after ensuring the captive is secured to his liking. Third is speaking to Mathilde about an all liquid diet that we can feed to her through a reed so we don't need to ungag her. After that, he can relax a little bit and toy with some designs for some maniacal mechanical devices in his tome.

[Chris Chandler]

Hoylur would, of course, offer up a complete suite of protective magics to ensure that if Narantsetseg were to attempt escape, she would, at the very least, be slowed to a crawl. He will set up a number of glyphs and alarms, and will definitely take a turn guarding the woman. You can tell that he really dislikes her.

So, Brit, Zora, where to first, or are you going to split up, or what?

[Dalcassius]

Hoylur is willingly helpful? Colour me stunned.

[LadyGlutter]

I think that Shiaming would be first since the sisters are likely to turn up in his grove. And no thank you to the splitting up, thanks all the same.

[Chris Chandler]

This is true. In fact, the royal gardens contain Shiaming's grove. It will not take an inordinate amount of time to locate him. He strides towards the two of you and embraces Zora and spins her around.

<It is so fine to see you both. I take it that things are doing better in your colony?>

[LadyGlutter]

Zora translates for Brit and beams at Shiaming, "Yes, but it's not over. That's why we're here. We need your help. In an official capacity."

[Chris Chandler]

Shiaming sets you down (you can see that he's blushing a bit from proximity) and smiles broadly. He closes his eyes and brushes off his robes, and then holds his hands just so. He arches an eyebrow in a most imperious manner and then speaks in a haughty tone.

<Well then, Theshian, er Colonist? How may we of the City-State of Juren be of Service?>

He is holding his laugh pretty well, but it will topple at any moment.

[LadyGlutter]

I smile, but am serious. "We need to hold a trial and we want to do it properly. Will you help us?"

[LightBringer]

Brit smiles curtiously, and nods at Zora, but otherwise remains quietly waiting, and watching.

[Chris Chandler]

Still smiling, Shiaming replies -

<Oh, yes, yes of course. As a sitting member of the ruling House in Juren, I may represent the city state in civil matters amongst the Zuihou and the various Theshian, Gen, and Kurobokuru settlements bordering our territory, as long as this issue is not a direct threat to the safety or security of Juren. Is this related to your past visit?>

[LadyGlutter]

<Well, yes....>

((Fast forward on the summing up?))

[Chris Chandler]

The short of it is that Shiaming will be happy to accompany you to Last Breath, and also escort you to Olaf's compound, if you like. He'd also insist that the two of you have tea with him beforehand (mostly so that he can have a moment to let the official channels do their thing, but also because jasmin tea is nice).

After tea is there anything you want to do before heading to Olaf's compound?

[LadyGlutter]

Nope. Zora's all business right now.

[LightBringer]

Nope, Brit is ready to go.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, the delay is really only about an hour and the three of you are off to Olaf's. The compound looks similar to how it did before, though Brit can tell that there have been recent repairs to the stonework.

Shiaming waits a discrete distance away while Brit does her thing. The secret door opens, the sentry alerts Olaf of your arrivel, and the three of you gain admittance.

You can see Red-Eye watching you with a smirk as he is busy sparring with a young Earth Gen woman. Brit's distraction allows Red-Eye's guard to go down and the woman exploits it beautifully. Red-Eye calls out -

I owe you one!

... as you pass. Olaf, who was clearly in the middle of some rare bit of grooming (perhaps a trim of the ol' beard?), comes out wiping his face on a towel, and gives a solid embrace to both of the girls and a curt bow to Shiaming. He sniffs and pulls back his hair and speaks -

So, what has got the Cross sisters downriver during the dead of winter. I can only hope that the news has improved from last we met?

He gives Brit a cautious eye, glancing toward Shiaming briefly.

[LightBringer]

(Power was out. I'm make a post tomorrow.)

[LadyGlutter]

Zora smiles and nods, but says nothing.

[LightBringer]

Brit smiles, "Yes news is certainly better. We've managed to capture the the party we believe is responsible for the assualt on Last Breath and Shiaming is going to help us out with that. We thought we'd come by and see how things are here."

[Chris Chandler]

Olaf laughs.

You come down here for this fussy little beauracrat? Juren's involved, eh? Well, your man here was quite instrumental in taking care of a little bad business with some dragon warriors. Should have known to not come so far east. Called themselves the North Star... No matter, walls are repaired, and we didn't have any deaths.

Now then, is there anything that I can help you with. You'll of course stay and sup with me and mine, but if there's business, I'll have it first.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora listens interestedly, glancing at Shiaming, but says nothing.North Star "dragon warriors" this far?? Hm.

[LightBringer]

((To be honest I don't remember why we're here. I would be interested in seeing Breena's dad, but was that our main purpose.))

[Chris Chandler]

((I believe that you went to Juren to get "neutral" 3rd parties so that the trial of the gen woman would actually be fair. You could talk to Hannigan too, if you like.))

[LightBringer]

((Ahh, okay. I thought we just came for Zora's contact. I'll get something up.))

[Chris Chandler]

((Cool, I'll move us forward once I see Brit's post.))

[LightBringer]

"Of course. Well as I said, we came to Juren to get Shiaming to help us out. We need people who can help provide a more 'neutral' trial than we could host on our own. You wouldn't know of any of those would you?" I smile. "We also thought we'd check on Hannigan."

[Chris Chandler]

Oh, do you mean a Tribunal? Sure, I can assist in that matter. I can go myself, or send Captain Red-Eye, on your call, of course.

Olaf then puts his big bear arm around your shoulders, Brit, and then turns back to the compound.

Hannigan - let me show you how Hannigan's doing.

The four of you walk through the compound, past the livery and the kitchen, back to the barracks. You walk through the barracks and at the end you see Hannigan, deep at work at an oil painting. You cannot see the actual painting, as he is facing you and you only see the back of the canvas on the easel, but you do see the subject: a beautiful middle-aged Jiaming woman sits in a relaxed pose on a cushion. She is wearing a lovely silk dress with an orchid pattern. She is still as stone, with only the barest betrayal of a steady breath. Hannigan looks past the easel at the women, then notices Olaf and the three of you. He smiles, and you can tell that he has to blink back a sudden tear, but then he returns to his work. He holds his hand up in a "just a moment" gesture, and puts a few more strokes down.

There w'are. I think that will do, Lei. Thank you for your patience.

The woman nods and stretches, but remains seated for the time being.

Well, it's the Ladies Cross. What a -

You can see that he's looking for someone else, but he doesn't see whomever. He pushes through and continues his greeting.

- wonderful surprise! So good to see you!

He stands and hugs you both.

[LightBringer]

((Who is this Heather you speak of?))

[Chris Chandler]

((Y'know, the grouchy brooding sister who likes to pick fights.))

[LightBringer]

((Ohhhh her. She totally rocks!))

Brit hugs back, then replies, "Sorry everyone couldn't come. Breena sent her love though."

[LadyGlutter]

Zora also hugs Hannigan. "You look lots better than the last time we saw you."

[Chris Chandler]

I feel better! Better than I have in a long time, actually. I think the ol' colony was getting the better of me.

He smiles at the mention of his daughter, then then tears creep around the edges of his eyes

D... did you ever find Grace? I mean... did Grace survive?

[LadyGlutter]

"Breena's taking care of her. She's still mending, but lots better."

Zora wants to see the painting, and will not make any pretense as she is walking around to look.

[Chris Chandler]

You see the image of the woman sitting on the cusion, but her clothing, her demeanor is not human. She rather, in fact, looks otherworldly, with a nimbus of light about her head and an strange glow about her eyes. The scene is of the goddess Niang (the Jiating Nature goddess), laying on the forest floor. She holds a hare in her arm and a crown of mistletoe. It is actually quite a good redention.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora smiles, "This is really good."

[Chris Chandler]

Hannigan smiles -

I appreciate it. It's... it's been years.

He cleans off his brush on a linen cloth, and continues -

'fore the war with the Turmish Kingdoms my pap had me apprenticed out to a painter. Odd sort of man, really nervous, but he was a good teacher, and I'd have made a better living at that than being a farmer. Farming's... more honest work though. Never could get the patron system down. I... don't like begging, I guess. Doesn't matter, though, war came and the lord conscripted a batallion from the county, and went off and earned my freedom, and a parcel to call my own. I was still poor, but I had land, and a wife who loved dirt under her nails.

He takes a breath.

I... I'd like to come back. I may not be completely well, but I think a bed with my Grace would do me more good than the finest room in this Juren.

Olaf laughs and agrees.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora blushes.

[LightBringer]

Brit laughs and smiles, "Nothing heals like love." After a brief pause, "Shall we work out any details over that dinner you promised." Brit looks toward Olaf.

[Chris Chandler]

Olaf laughs and agrees.

The whole compound will break for a small celebration and banquet. The meal is small, but an interesting mix of Theshian seafood recipes, Zuihou wok-fried delicacies, and sweets best made in Juren, like plum buns and sticky rice. The feast is well recieved and the troops welcome an afternoon of R&R. Olaf speaks with his lieutenants, and leaves Red-Eye in charge until his return.

Shiaming, for his part, already has taken care of his responsibilities, and hand Brit a scroll with the Ducal seal of Juren. This scroll is basically a permission slip for Shiaming, allowing the elder Cross sister to request Shiaming's role during the right of Tribunal.

Olaf insists that two mules be provisioned for the colonists, and Shiaming has a pull-cart loaded with provisions, as well. There are enough foodstuffs, bedding, and other sundries to get the now smaller colony of Last Breath into mid-spring.

All ready to head back?

[LadyGlutter]

Heck yeah.

[Chris Chandler]

Okay, the trip is actually pretty straightforward. Lia gladly transports the group back to her grove, and then the five of you walk the mules over to Last Breath. Hannigan, heads out to go find Grace. Leif and Jacob (the cooper) come and take care of the mules, leaving Olaf and Shiaming free to head with you to the Cross Manor. Kirfah and Lassi are over there right now, with Hoylur in the study, reading. Sharad and Gunther are patrolling right now. Most everyone else is either in Theodrada's manor or Mathilde's.

[LightBringer]

Excellent. Just make sure of what we need to do for our guest to be comfortable, and to keep them in the 'neutral' role. Also, be sure to check in with Agatha as soon as possible.

[Chris Chandler]

Agatha will be largely recovered, even though she was one of Zora's last patients. She is tending the afflicted with the help of some of the older girls, leaving Breena and Wybert to visit with her father.

Your guests will lay out packs in the sitting room of the manor, and insist that they are quite comfortable.

[LadyGlutter]

Zora feels like she has done her bit for a while. She does ask Lia how the Gen's uncle is faring, but other than that is content to take a big backseat to the procedings.

[Chris Chandler]

Agreed. Zora's part in the Tribunal will be as a witness, but little more. She is not the greatest adherent of Imperial law.

The Tribunal is really the purview of Britannia and Kirfah.

[LightBringer]

Once Brit is sure things are good in the colony, she will start putting together what is needed for a fair, or as fair as we can get, trial. She will follow Shiaming and Olaf's advice on this mattter.

[Chris Chandler]

((Okay, now I can use that post from the end of June, with a few edits.))

Okay, so while Brit and Zora are in Juren, things clean up in the colony pretty quickly. Leif and Lassi escort the creatures out of the colony and they take flight to the west. Ember goes to forage nearby, but says that he will return. Kenizk stays close to the group, whatever the outcome during the trial.

Most of the afflicted colonists are recovering well, and the whole remaining colony, including all the awakened afflicted, the children, and those unaffected will be present at the proceedings. There is even enough room in the Great Hall of the Cross Manor to hold the entire trial. Sascha and Fatima, with the assistance of the older children, prepare the Hall for the trial.

So the colony, as-is remaining is:



Brit, Zora, Kirfah and Gunther, with Hoylur being an "unofficial" member of the colony



Akasma, Sharad and Fatima, from the Sajid household
Grace and Breena, of Hannigan, the yeomen of Last Breath
Lief, his mother Aggi and his young sister Emma (who have not shown their faces in Last Breath this entire time. Aggi is quite uncomfortable, and is frail and easily the oldest person here, elves notwithstanding)
Lassi and Orvokki, and their daughter Anwen from the Triumvirate
Jacob the Cooper and his wife Annabelle
Mathilde, the tavern owner
Bartel, the dwarven farrier
Wybert, a farmer
Agatha, the priestess of Valasia
Sascha, from the Cross Household
Brand, a hunter
Agnes and William - The children of the butcher, Luther (Luther and his wife are dead)
Rose - Daughter of Oeric and Rose (another huntsman and his wife, who assisted Anwen - both dead)
Garrick - Son of the hostler Cuthbert. He is only three years younger than Zora and is marked as the "oldest child". (Cuthbert and Swanhild, his wife, are both dead)
Aelflaed, Annis, and Hrodwyn, the granddaughters of the widow Mildreth. Her husband died years ago, her son was a mercenary (similar to Sharad) and got himself killed a few years ago. Her daughter-in-law "faded away" last year. Mildreth was the closest thing to a priest of Heru in the vicinity - a lay leader, as it were (her husband was a Knight of Heru). Mildreth is dead.
Karri, Aethel, and Cena, the children (Cena being the son and oldest) of Cena the elder and Karri, his wife (halflings, and farmers. Cena and Karri are dead)
Olav, Son of Eirik, the Northman tanner, and his wife Torhild (both dead)
Drogo and Frideswide, the children - they are both teenaged, though younger than Garrick - of the widower Aethelred, a woodsman and carpenter (he's dead, though he had not been sick. He was found in the south of town, seemingly attacked by an animal - a victim of Death with Fangs).
Branda, the very young daughter of the huntsman and fisherman Brand (he thought he was a bear - his wife Cyneburga - one of your mother's students - was the skeleton you found, Zora, on the way to Lia's. She'd not been sick, and was helping Agatha - another victim of Death with Fangs).

The total is 40. It is quite a sight.

There are also the various animals (Hare and Ru, Ember), a visitor (Kenizk), and associates outside of the Colony (Lia's grove most importantly). There is also the invisible entity waiting on the border of Last Breath, and a... colony of werebats who are going to be wintering a half-day to the west, in the White Salt Flats.

It will take the better part of two days for everyone to rest up and get together an prepare the formal trial. Gunther, being the priest of Hurion, knows the process by heart, and will set up the trial.

Gunther will note that as Ozan, Kirfah has special dispensation to be tapped as an Arbiter, an outside party who may sit on a tribunal. He will also note that Orvokki, as an agent of a Great House of the Triumvirate, also is granted dispensation to sit on the tribunal. By mutual consent, it has been decided, however, that the Tribunal will be set up with Olaf Griffson, a mercenary captain from Juren and an ally to the Cross family and Shiaming, Minister of Harvest of the city state of Juren, and Healer Swifu from the nearest Zuihou tribe, will be the members of the Tribunal. Thankfully, they are all here. Swifu is staying with Mathilde during

Hoylur is an agent of the Conclave, and it is his duty to record the proceedings (though a member of the Jaraman clergy would have sufficed, had there been one here). He'll take his duty seriously enough.

Gunther is the senior member of the clergy of Hurion, and will be counsel to the defense, that is, the Gen woman. Gunther calls for his second Grace, a yeoman citizen of Thesh.

Agatha is the senior member of the clergy of Valasia, and will be counsel to the offended, that is Last Breath. Agatha calls on Jacob, a free tradesman, as her second.

The colonists who form the jury include Breena, Hannigan, Annabelle, Wybert, Brand, and Sascha. They are the remaining Theshian citizens. It is their duty to approve the sentence handed down by the Tribunal.

Brit and Zora are, for all intents and purposes, the noble leadership of the colony at this time. Had there not been a Tribunal called, Brit would have had to have been judge for the trial. Being Theshian citizens, Zora and Brit have the right to sit in the jury, but being nobles they are not required to.

The remaining colonists are not Theshian citizens, and are subsequently delegated to the gallery. They may witness the proceedings, and may be called for testimony (as may any member of the trial, save Brit should you opt for the single judge route), but do not have direct sway of in determining guilt or innocence.

So, whenever we're ready, let's go.

((Oh, and as if I need to say so, everyone is level 7 now. Most excellent job guys!))

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah will offer to make rooms up in the Sajid manor for the honored guests of Last Breath. It should be comfortable enough and its a little father from the cellar with the accused and the Tavern full of victims. Wouldn't want to taint our tribunal.
While he wouldn't have shied from any responsibility in the proceedings, he's relieved not have to play the role as arbiter. Kirfah try to split his attentions between maintaining security over the Gen and performing regular day to day activities in order to relax and keep a hold of his wits.

[Chris Chandler]

Well, the three of you are part of gallery now, which will free you up for your own ends, outside of when you will give testimony. A tribunal is a long process, as much designed to wear down the accused as to be thourough. Gunther would have been scribing a number of truthsaying scrolls to expedite things along as much as possible.

Brit, you'll be the first witness, and your first question will be:

"How would you describe the relationship between the agent Foster to the gen woman Narantsetseg?"

[LightBringer]

Brit thinks for a moment, "From the dealings I had of Foster, I would say their relationship seemed to be a business arrangement, or perhaps a dutiful follower. Narantsetseg's words seemed to convey more feeling than that though. Perhaps more on the level of intimate partners."

[Chris Chandler]

Your second question will be:

<Had you ever had any past dealings with the gen woman Narantsetseg, prior to her involvement in the series of attacks on the colony of Last Breath?>

[LightBringer]

"Not to my knowledge."


(Cause I don't remember. I don't think Brit has though.)

[Chris Chandler]

The last question:

Do have evidence regarding the initial attack on Last Breath, regarding Magistrate Theodrada, the colonist Gunther, and the colonist Jurgen?*


---
When Hare showed up, when Theodrada and Gunther were hit with poison darts.

[LightBringer]

"To my knowledge the initial attack on Last Breath was the night those colonist were attacked. These were the darts used in that attack." Brit carefully removes the darts from her person, and the wrappings they are in, and hands them over.

[Chris Chandler]

The Tribunal dismisses Brittania and will call other witness, one by one, throughout the day. Since this is a tribunal, all members of the colony (not only the Theshians) will be called. Of those who matter here, Kirfah is next.

The first question:

Please describe what happened in the time immediately before the destruction of the household of Hannigan, Yeoman of Thesh?

[Dalcassius]

Kirfah clears his throat before he begins.
"We were on Hannigan's land looking for those responsible for what happened to Hare and the young woman tied to him. The homestead seemed reasonable a place to look and we could also check on Breena's mother. There was a strange odor to the place and it didn't take us long to realize it was lamp oil. A trap had been set in the house, lamp oil in the kitchen and cellar. Tindertwigs were jammed under the door. We were extremely lucky that they did not ignite when we opened the door. Unfortunately when we descended to the cellar there was a letter there. I read it but it was an enspelled letter with directions to set the parchment on fire. My mind was not strong enough to resist the insidious enchantment and as a result I struggle with Brit who was attempting to prevent me from starting any fire. Brit was easily able to keep me away from the letter. Whoever set the trap was unsatisfied with the fact that we hadn't yet incinerated ourselves and through the exterior cellar door set the oil ablaze."

[Chris Chandler]

The second question:

<Describe your encounter with the agent Foster within the city walls of Juren.>

[Dalcassius]

"Our trip to Juren was short, a couple of days if I recall. I was busy with other details, but I do recall a bit of a chase through the city streets. Things with Foster where a little more interesting on the return trip as we spoke with him a little."

[Chris Chandler]

Your last question:

How did you relate to the Magistrate Theodrada?

[Dalcassius]

"Not as well as two people could relate I suppose. I felt as if she didn't have much respect for me, though she did befriend my brother Sharad. She was sort of matronly with him. It didn't take me long to find my interactions with Theodrada to be... grating."

[Chris Chandler]

And finally, for the group at present, the questions presented to Zora -

First Question:

How would you describe your relationship with the dryad Lia?

[LadyGlutter]

"She's my friend and teacher."

[Chris Chandler]

The second question:

<Did the entity know as The Tiger make any offer to you, upon your encounter with him?>

[LadyGlutter]

"No, I don't think so. But he did imply that he had great powers and that he could easily tempt us with many things. Not a direct offer, though...?" Zora is very confused at the question.

[Chris Chandler]

Third question -

Could you describe first meeting with the entity known as 'Death with Fangs', and what happened as a result of that meeting?

[LadyGlutter]

"We were rescuing Brand. Death with Fangs was using him as bait and we were floating downriver from Lia's to town. Death with Fangs was menacing us from the bank. Brit defended the group as he tried to attack us, but since we were on the water we were able to evade him without a full fight."

[Chris Chandler]

So, that does it for your testimony. Many more individuals were and will be questioned in the same manner, but, because of the small population of the colony, it will not take long to complete. Olaf, Swifu, and Shiaming will take their leave, along with Hoylur, Gunther, Agatha, Grace, and Jacob, to confer over the legality of the crimes accused and if they are applicable to the case, and whether or not Narantsetseg is, indeed guilty of any of the charges. The jury, whose primary duty during a tribunal is to decide upon the punishment for the crime, is dismissed until called back. They are also an informal check to the tribunal, in that they can, if unanimous, cast down the decision of the tribunal should said decision be deemed incorrect. This is exceedingly rare, of course, but is documented as happening.

So, the short of it is this -

The group spends the afternoon resting and retiring for supper. The tribunal itself will also break for supper (though they remain secluded while they eat), and the whole will reconvene after evening prayers. Narantsetseg, who was questioned at length before witness testimony was heard, is brought out once more under the guard of Leif and Lassi, and the charges are formally read, which are:


Conspiracy to displace and/or destroy the Theshian Colony of Last Breath by use of force and terror
Two counts of Murder most grave (that is, premedidated and planned out) by use of a third party
Eight counts of attempted murder, by one's own hand and by use of a third party
60 counts of Murder indirect (that is caused by another action that may or may not have been intended to kill) by one's own hand and by use of a third party
Use of deadly poison or ungent, for use other than the research of the medical arts or of humane killing of a sick beast.
Conspiracy to spread disease through the water supply within Last Breath and along the Dong Bao.
Use of necromantic arts outside of the auspices of the Conclave
Five counts of Conspiracy for murder upon Theshian nobility
Five counts of Consipiracy for murder upon the clergy
Conspiracy made manifest upon the City-State of Juren
14 counts of attempted Murder against protected persons as wards within the jurisdiction of the city-state of Juren
Two counts of Attempted Murder against members of the ruling House of the city-state of Juren
Misuse of colonial property within the Theshian colony of the Crossroads
Control of no less than 16 persons held as beasts without writ of punishment or censure
Taint of no less than 16 persons with lycanthropy
Conspiracy for revolt amongst remants of the Legions of Lao Tse by use of propaganda, myth, and bribery
Heresy amongst the Cestial court of Shang-Ti and his consorts, by invoking the name Tou Mu (the "North Star") in reference to select accused deeds
Heresy amongst the associated tribes of the Water Gen, for conspiring to procure an ancient Gen artifact left hidden and protected during the Days of Unity
Bartering with otherworldly beings for temporal power, information, or othe boon, without Conclave auspice
False records on colonial census for colony of the Crossroads


Admittedly there is a much circumstantial evidence, in that you saw it with your own eyes (or someone else did), but there isn't backing physical evidence to corroborate it, but there is enough proof of enough things that the Tribunal finds Narantsetseg guilty of... to put it plainly, more than enough for it to really matter. Enough of the most severe charges stick that the most severe punishments should be warranted. The jury recommends so (some more vociferously than others *cough Breena cough*), and the Tribunal agrees.

Now then, here is the sticky part. The Thesian Empire, thanks to the active presence of the Temple of Valasia, actually has no law to sentence a person to death. The most severe punishment is meted out by powerful magic. The convicted can be permanently imprisoned or sent to extraplanar exile/prison, but not death. Crimes the Theshian clergy directly, (of which at least two buildings were destroyed) can force the call of Censure, forcing the the criminal into a lifetime of servitude.

The jury's recommendation is extraplanar imprisonment, pending claim of jurisdiction from the following individuals:

The Conclave has the charge of necromancy against Narantsetseg, which is a bad charge. Playing with the dead, or the powers of the netherworld and shadow call for swift death and the charge of necromancy is one that sticks, so, they have a direct claim for execution. Hoylur is one of two Conclave representatives (the second being Ozan Kirfah, who had trained at a Conclave institution) present, but is the only actual Conclave agent, and as such will be the person charged to make any claim for execution. He does without hesitation, citing specific instances within the trial to bolster the claim.

The accusation of Heresy amongst the Gi clergy will stick, and both Swifu and Shiaming respresent the consort of Shang Ti. Shiaming would not personally not call for death, but rather for exile, while Swifu would call for death.

Agatha, as the head of the order of Valasia, will call for mercy and Censure.

The Tribunal, comprised of the local authorities (one Theshian, one Jiating from Juren, and a elder of the Zuihou) must all agree on the appropriate punishment. Because Shiaming and Swifu each lay claim, and there are equal claims for death and exile (with one call for censure), Olaf will make the final decision.

The three men debate for about an hour, so it is late in the evening before Olaf is ready to speak. He stands before the gathered colony and guests, and then lays out the punishment.

Thank you for your patience. We have weighed all the charges against the accused, and finding one Narantsetseg, exiled of the tribes of Water Gen and in residence within the Theshian colony of The Crossroads, guilty of multiple grevious charges, we are obligated to mete out punishment befitting the crime. Theshian law provides that the convicted be exiled to one of the elemental planes for the rest of her days, but concurrent jurisdiction is evident on this conviction. The ruling House of Juren also calls for exile, and the Temple of Valasia calls for Censure. The Conclave of Magic calls for pushishment by death, and the consort of Shang Ti calls for punishment by death. I have heard arguments for exile, censure, and death and am burdened to pronounce the crimes committed to be worthy of the execution of the most severe penalty.

Olaf nods to Leif. Leif and Lassi lift Narantsetseg up and she glares fiercely at Olaf.

Narantsetseg, exile of the Tribes of Water Gen, I hereby sentence you to the punishment of death by the method you chose so often to use to destroy and terrorize. Death by fire.

Narantsetseg thrashes against her captors and Leif struggles greatly to keep even the weakened and weary gen secure. She screeches out <Tou Mu! I hear you mother, and your hunger is mine! I beg you to save me!!!>

Nothing happens. She breaks down crying, whispering, <I will then welcome the flame.>