Day 9 in Dragonshore (Part 3)

Your feet kick a small pocket watch that is half buried in the ash. The boy who you told to run away slowly comes out of hiding, tentatively watching you.

"T-thank you for your help, sir." He looks a little singed but otherwise unharmed. He glances at the watch. "I'm sorry I caused so much trouble. I didn't mean to. I... Pickpocketed that earlier. I didn't realize it was a magical item until I pried it open and that... Thing jumped out."

He walks over to some sacks of potatoes and onions on the ground, likely dropped and spilled during the fight.

Oredion chuckles and pats the boy on the shoulder.

"It's not a problem lad. Actually quite the opposite I'm feeling better then I've felt in ages. Why did you steal if you mind me asking?"

Oredion looks down seeing his clothes ruined with burn marks, holes and tears, and blood stains covering it all. He gets a whiff of his smell and almost wretches knowing he is in dire need of a relaxing bath.

Etny, having tracked her dwarven friend stops cold in her tracks:  she sees a kyrach-udunta--a fire-bringer!

What's worse is she sees Oredion-Antrahtu taking it on all by himself!  She rushes forward, and ducks behind a nearby rock, readying her bow with a thunder arrow. 

Just as she is about to spring up and shoot the fire-bringer, the fight is over.  Etny sees that Oredion-Antrahtu has come out victorious.  The elemental is gone.

Etny sees him interact with a young teenage boy, and decides that now is as good a time as any to approach the dwarf.

"Ore-elenn...,"she says uncertainly, is...is everything...alright?"

Oredion seeing Etny let's out a laugh trying to convince her he's fine. (Deception 7+3)

"Everything is fine now. I'm just helping this young lad who fell on hard times with a elemental!"

Oredion chuckles slapping the boy on his shoulder.

  the boy looks incredibly sheepish having another person show up. He stays quiet, kicking up the dirt with his shoes.

Oredion places his hand on the boys shoulder gently.

"It's fine now lad. She's a Ally of mine. Your not in trouble. We will not judge you here."

(Persuasion 18+3)

Oredion continues to avert his eyes from Etny's stare knowing he made an ass of himself to the huntress earlier.

  "I... I took the pocket watch to see if I could. I used to steal for money and sometimes I still do. But I... I don't know. It feels like a challenge."

He wipes his nose on a sleeve. "I've already screwed up enough as it is today... I'm just taking some food home now."

"Do not freat young one. Take this coin and run on home to your family. Your lucky to still be in one piece."

Oredion hands the boy 20 gold coins and gives him a Stern gaze.

  The boy looks embarrassed taking the hand out. He stuffs it in his pocket and adjusts the bags in his arms. "Yes sir... Do... do you need to be looked at for your injuries?"

He stares at your burnt hands, the flesh scorched. "Trundleberry has a lotta stuff. He's... Real kind."

Etny watches the exchange between the two.  Touched, she sees the dwarf's kindness, and approaches.  The boy is still there, seeming nervous. 

"Ore-elenn, are you...alright?  You had me worried.  I...," she pauses, swallowing a lump in her throat.  "I thought that kyrach-udunta would have burned you alive!"

She looks to the boy, his eyes to the ground.  "He is right, young one.  We are not here to pass judgement."

  The boy nods, turning red. His freckles stand out. "Thanks. I know I shouldn't steal, I just... Ya know."

Oredion chuckles evading Etny's questions.

"It's fine lad i do not need healing quite yet, but by chance do you know where I can take a relaxing bath?"

 He shrugs and points to the lake. "We all wash there. It's nice."
He wrinkles his nose a little bit at the smell coming from both of you. You can tell he's trying to be polite and not say anything.

(Would have been perfect time to tell about the fang lol jk)

(Oh I know xD but I thought maybe that kid wouldnt know it......maybe

Oredion eyes the lake seeing green moss float on its surface.

"Anywhere a bit more private... Cleaner...?"

The boy shrugs. " I guess the inn has a bath or something. Or there's... a..." he can't seem to think of the right word to describe it. "Some place I've seen people hang out near. Violent Fangs? I dunno. I think they have a pool or somethin'."

Etny is slightly crestfallen, as the dwarf is evading her.  She is slightly saddened by his distance, but to a great degree, she understands.  She empathizes with the dwarf.

Oredion eyes the boy.

"The violent fangs? I do like pools and so does Joey. Where might that be for I can wash this filth off."

The boy shrugs. "Uh, south side of town. Half way to the docks. It's got colored windows and stuff."

He waves a little, awkwardly hurring off with his supplies toward the lake.

Oredion not quite sure what to do yet waits for Etny to speak still avoiding her eyes.

"Ore-elenn, shall we wash up?  I think a pool sounds nice..."  She eyes the dwarf, who is doing his darnedest to avoid her gaze. 

She feels for him.  Knowing what he has been through.  She looks down at the ground, her violet eyes averted.  "Oredion-Antrahtu, I..."  She swallows against another lump in her throat, "I am sorry for being a hypocrite, elenn."

"It is ok... I... I just can not control my rage. I did not mean to let part of it out upon you. Yes let us go to pool. If we can even find it."

He lets out a small chuckle and looks up at her into her Violet eyes admiring the beauty of them. He quickly looks away and starts to walk towards the south side of town.

Etny follows the dwarf, her eyes still downcast.  She cannot shake her emotions on the matter of killing innocents.  As far as she knew, she had never killed a single hatchling Einhycacht, but then again...they all seemed to her the same. 

But she felt torn inside; knowing that Einhycacht had mercilessly killed her tribe, and yet she was against killing Einhycacht young?!  What sort of hypocrite would have such thoughts!  At least the dwarf was honest and straightforward about his intentions, no hypocrisy!

Etny feels like she's going to explode from the inside.  Her pace quickens, and her heart races.  She can't stand the stench on her, and feels she must get to these pools as quick as possible. 

She may be able to wash her body clean, but can she wash her torn soul?

Would she ever be free from this hate?

(Slow clap... Dang dude lol

The two of you wonder for a bit, finally coming across something called the "velvet fang"... Definitely sounds different now, but it looks peaceful.

You pass by the red lamp outside and, upon opening the door, are greeted by a refreshing breeze. The smell of mineral baths and good food waft out amid the sound of a minstrel.

An elven lady in fine dress greets you kindly at the door. "Hello sir and madam. Welcome! Would you be keen on any special services at this time?"
Etny, slightly caught off guard by the pleasing aroma of the place, looks up at the Elven maiden. 

"Oleah!  Erenye elio arqua mahgretu!"  She looks down in shame at herself, her clothing overrun with filth and muck. 

"What are 'special services' Erenye-dera?"

She bows lightly in respect to one of the High Folk.

"Oh, we have food, hooka, drink, baths, massages..." She smiles benignly. "It is a spa, a house of purchisable pleasures."

Etny is intrigued.  She had never been to a 'house of purchasable pleasures' in all her life, and is curious to know what sorts of things this place has to offer. 

She looks over at Oredion inquisitively, her violet eyes alight with curiosity.

"What do you think, Ore-elenn?"

Oredion chuckles.

"Fine with me if we can clean this gunk off of us. Lead us to the baths mam."

She motions for you to stand in the glittery glyphs on the ground. "I just have some questions for you before you can enter."

"Baths are also 5 silver, so a gold for both of you. For another gold we can have your gear cleaned."

Etny reaches behind on the side of her pack, and pulls out her unused money bag.  She looks at it, looks at the Erenye, and back at the money bag.  Without knowing what exactly to do, she hands the entire bag to the elf.

Oredion grabs the bag back.

"Sorry she doesn't know money very well yet."

He hands her 4 gold coins and chuckles.

Oredion hands the bag back to Etny chuckling.

"For a great huntress your kind of an airhead. Will that be enough to pay for both of us?"

Oredion pats Etny on the back still chuckling good naturedly.

Etny takes the money bag back, her violet eyes filled with an almost innocent curiosity. 

At being called an airhead, she makes a face at Oredion, although she knows he is just teasing her. 

She looks around, intrigued at this place.  "So what," she asks in a whisper to Oredion, "does a place like this specialize in,  Ore-elenn?"
Oredion thinking it's just another inn since he grew up in a close-nit mountain community and then mainly in the woods.

"I think it's just a nicer inn? But they said massages witch can mean alot of things in a town."

He eyes Etny not sure if she's playing innocent at what he means or is actually that innocent?

"'A lot of things?  What do you mean by this, Ore-elenn?"

She eyes the dwarf, her curiosity getting the better of her."
Oredion blush's not wanting to explain this to her at all.

"It is something more suited for someone else to tell you. I would not be the best at explaining it."

Oredion says barely being able to mutter his words out.

The elf smiles. "Question time, beauties. Are you planning any nefarious action that could result in injury, whether physical or psychological, maiming, death or undeath of another patron or person of employ at the Velvet Fang?"

Oredion eyes the elf questioningly.

"I do not plan on any such feeds unless I'm provoked to the point of protecting myself or her."

He shoots a thumb over his shoulder pointing at Etny.

"What?  No, that is not something I would ever dream of doing," she protests.

She nods, and the floor glimmers beneath you. "Are you associated with or do you support any groups that seek the above mentioned behavior towards another patron or person of employ at the Velvet Fang?"

Etny feels her mind swim a little, her stomach churning slightly.

"No, I work alone, save with this Antrahtu here, and my other..." She falters slightly, "...companions."

"No"

Oredion replies calmly.

"Are you associated with or do you support any cults that delve into the dark arts of necromancy, torture, mutilation or other such activity for themselves, a superior influencer or a patron diety?"

"No," says Etny, her brows knitting.

"No"

Oredion responds still staying calm on the outside but slowly getting ticked.

She smiles happily. "Wonderful!  Welcome to the Fang." She casually leads you both in as if nothing is wrong.

Heading to the back, she passes you both a towel and a silk robe. "Here are your things. You may disrobe as you see fit and we will take your gear to launder."

You walk though the door to the pools outside, or at least a room enchanted to look like it is outdoors. A high ceiling shows an enchanted, false sky. Several other patrons are bathing, some in robes and some...without. One orc walks casually by Etny nude, eyeing her rough, bloody attire with a wink.

Bright.  Beet.  Red.

Etny flushes deeper than her auburn hair, and quickly looks away.  She shields her eyes with her free hand.

"Oredion-Antrahtuuuuuu..."

Oredion eyes the orc roughly.

"Watch it bub."

He turns to Etny and casually speaks.

"Pay him no mind. I would go ask one of the people who works here to help you find a place to change."

Oredion walks to a corner and starts to remove his armor and clothes. Carefully putting his robe on to not show any of his dwarven pride.

Etny watches the dwarf go off to a corner and begin to disrobe.  She quickly turns her eyes away, and shuts them closed for a moment. 

She turns away and, opening her eyes again, sees someone who looks official.  Running up to the attendant, she asks in a desperate low whisper, Is there any place...private I could change?"

The lady, a sweet looking dwarf woman, smiles at Etny. "Oh no problem dear.... There's a small powder room to the right." She gestures to the restrooms.

Etny rushes off toward the powder room, and sets her robe and towel down on a small countertop.  With that, she removes her armor, and her tunic and leggings.  She then removes her undergarments, and slips the towel over her figure, not bothering with the robe. 

She sets her clothes in a nearby bin, with her boots next to them.  She takes a tentative step out of the powder room, and into the bath house. 

She is fully aware that she is completely nude beneath the towel, and her face betrays her embarrassment.  Looking around for Oredion, she spots him near one of the pools.

Looking this way and that, and feeling very self-conscious, she trots over to where he is, holding her towel tightly to her body.

"Ore-elenn...."

Oredion looks up and blush's looking away quickly not wanting to stare.

"Why did you not put on the robe?"

Oredion continues to avert his eyes from her to the pool water.

"Arat, Oredion-Antrahtu...I-I wanted to clean off."  She gestures awkwardly at her whole self.  "Everything."

(Arat means "sorry"

Oredion chuckles.

"Same im more naked then a new born babe. Go ahead and jump in."

Oredion splashes some water at her trying to relieve some of the awkwardness.

Etny yelps aloud, and flinches, a smile growing on her face. 

She alights down into the water, and as she descends into the pool, removing the towel completely.  She lowers herself into the water, letting it's cleansing properties rush against her body.  She is mostly covered in the water, save for her arms and shoulders, neck and head. 

She dunks her head under the water, her auburn hair sticking to her head and neck when she comes back up, weighed down with water.

She looks at Oredion, and leans back against the wall of the pool, relaxing. 

"Well, Ore-elenn, have I told you about my tribe, the Andraya?"

Joey leaps out of Oredion's beard in a dive bomb fashion trying to splash Etny but barely making a wave at all. Joey starts to swim between Oredion and Etny going under then above water having a grand time. Oredion smiles at Etny making sure to only look at her eyes.

"I don't see a better time then now to tell me. Go ahead let me hear this tale."

Oredion gives her one last splash then sits back against the wall of the pool and falls into a sitting position on the steps almost drowning himself not remembering he's only 4.2ft tall.

Etny gestures in the air, and begins to speak.  "Eons ago, Oman--or Man in my tongue--retreated from a great conflict in the Outlands.  They went the directions of the Four Winds, and made across the sea with great haste and labor.  They came to the Sacred Lands, revering and hallowing its grounds."  Etny takes a breath, letting her hands float freely in the water.

"The Great Seven Tribes were formed during an age of peace, and there was plenty in the land."

Her expression darkens. 

"Now there are only Six."

Oredion stays silent a now interested saddened look von his face waiting for Etny to continue.

"I...do not talk much about this...Oredion-Antrahtu.  The grief...it is...still too near, even to this day."  She sighs, the burden of guilt and the horrors of that day still very much fresh in her memory. 

"That...was six years ago."

Oredion looks at the water trying to think on what to say. Yes he knows where she's coming from having watched his people get slaughtered before his eyes, but he does not want to just say he understands empathetically. He looks up and tries to look deep within her eyes to show he understands.

"Please continue if you can I feel with how much you have listened to my own tales I must relieve you of at least some burden by sharing with another."

Joey swims up to Etny laying his head on her shoulder looking up at  her with his big bright eyes turning himself a shade of blue for sadness. The salamander almost representing how she feels upon his skin.

 Etny sees Oredion looking sincerely at her.  She hugs her knees to her chest, and contemplates how to continue.  It is as if she is looking at an impassable mountain in her mind, and can't seem to cross it, no matter how many times she has tried before.  But now I have elenn...someone to listen...someone who understands.

"Six years ago...my tribe was slaughtered...mercilessly...by Einhycacht.  A massive raiding band of then came through our region, slaughtering and pillaging as they went.  Whoever they did not murder...they took as slaves or sacrifices to whatever vile god they worshipped..."

Her knuckles grow white, and she begins to tremble visibly.

Oredion sees her shake and moves a tad closer. He rests a hand sincerely on her shoulder still leaving a decent amount of space between them.

"It is alright Etny you do not have to continue unless you want to. I know how hard it is to relive these horrors in your mind."

Oredion brings his hand back to him and leans back and looks up at the fake sky.

The mountain stands in her mind as a bastion of immobility and impassability.  Then, she feels a hand on her shoulder.

"They...They came through....first they attacked our braves...they held the line for a time, but...there was an unnumbered slaughter."

Her heart races.  Her breathing is shorter and more rapid.

"They...came through...their numbers beyond count...men...women...children...they brutally slaughtered them all..."

Oredion feeling his emotions stir within him. He just wants to give her a hug and let her cry it out, but he knows now would not be the best time for that for obvious reasons.

"STOP... It's ok. You do not need to continue."

He looks at Etny concern covering his face. Oredion places his hand back on her shoulder trying calm her as best he can with there current situation.

Etny just breathes.  That's all she can do is breathe.  Deep breaths, as she strives against her own sanity to calm herself down. 

Shiza!  But I've never told that to ANYONE! she marvels to herself.

"Oredion...Antrahtu...I think I will need a long sleep tonight..."

Oredion nods understandingly and speaks in a soft gentle voice.

"I also believe I'm in a need for a long long rest. I... I'm glad you shared this me so soon. I'm glad you trust me Etny. Have a good rest and take your time to calm down then come find me and let us talk again. It does not have to be the same topic I just wish to talk with you more and better understand you."

Oredion turns his gaze back to the water. Now seeing Joey swim underneath a shining white color with a hint of gold again? To exhausted to figure out this new development he sits back against the wall basking in the fake moon light trying to fully relax. His eyes close and he can't help to think about the horrid things Etny has gone threw.

Etny nods silently, and gets up out of the water.  Her athletic figure glistens, and she quickly wraps herself in the towel. 

"Oredion-Antrahtu, Harra, thank you for listening to me.  That...that wasn't easy to share, but having someone here who understands...it is helpful."

She offers him a knowing smile, and begins to make her way off.

Oredion, having fallen asleep in the pools, is woken by a little nip from Joey. The lizard purrs and hiccups a bit of the flavored water. Drying off, the two head back to the Dragon's Lair Inn for a meal and a decent night's sleep.

Etny lays in her bed at the Dragon's Lair Inn, having washed up and retrieved her gear.  She is at odds with herself, unable to sleep.  The nightmare of six years ago threatens to repay itself in her mind's eye.  She knows she needs to rest, but she can't bring herself to fall asleep.

She turns over on the cushy bed once more, and tries to just relax...but she can't.  Too many thoughts race in her mind.

Etny sits up and stares at her hands.  She MUST challenge Atriox the prince of no one, and reclaim her honor.  He has recruited hundreds of blue Einhycacht to his cause, and Etny has done nothing but hunt them down to fulfill her vengeance.  She would show these dragons that she was just as strong as they, if not stronger, by challenging their leader in combat.

For all her thought on this, Etny knows next to nothing about Atriox, except that he lost his kin to a terrible tragedy, and thus, his kingdom.  Other than that, she had no idea who he was.  She would need to learn about him; get to know who he was as an individual, and strive to weed out as much information as she could about him, so that she might gain some sort of advantage in her challenge to him.

...Suddenly, it comes like a wave, and hits her:  She is still very much alone in this cruel world.  She has almost no one to trust or turn to.  She is growing more food of Oredion-Antrahtu each day they're together, and she felt at least one person had her back.  She couldn't, however, shake the feeling that she was still so very alone in this world--that she didn't fit in, or could hardly make a difference.  Would she ever see her parents--her family--again?

"M-mama...D-da...."

Hot tears sting her eyes and roll down her cheek as the weight of everything comes crashing down on her.  She falls asleep to her sobs echoing in the room, almost as empty as she was...

(Omg the feels 😭😭😭)
(FEEL THE FEELS!  MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAA!!!  🤣😂😂
(I feel them man... And they hurt 😭😭😭)
( 😂😂😂)
(Yuuuuuuuup.  🤣
(I don't even understand how to reply to that... To help her this shits roughhhh. Oredions just gonna continue being a good supportive guy ig lol I play as a barbarian gentleman lmao)
(Hey that works perfectly!  Sometimes you just gotta keep on keeping on, and doing what you know how to do, and do your best at it.  And don't worry, Etny will catch on to Oredion's advances soon enough.  😁😁😁
(eh not really advances more embarrassed hiding his face like a child 😂😂😂)
(Lolol, true.  Still tho, it's freaking great, and they shall be shipped!
( dude yessss 😂😂😂 I'm like wide awake the trial took so long but so worth it was super intense though oxious got a lot of pain for doing nothing wrong but meh lol)
(Right?  Well, I think Jessi and then wanted to milk that situation as much as they could.
(Worth it though. Idk what's gonna happen now I'm so amped to see. Will Atriox attack Alrik? Will Etny fight Atriox? Will Oredion ever get out of the bath? Find out next time on Dragon Ball Z 😂😂😂)


---

Alrik stops and turns around, expecting The Enigma to be behind him, using magic to alter her voice.

Several yards away you spot a lanky, freckled half-elf teenager looking at you with a scrunched up nose. It's Tucker. He's dressed rather clean, but plain. Now that he has your attention he kicks at the wood on the dock, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

"I came like you told me to. Now what?"

Alrik gestures for him to follow him. "Now we go find Magus Jaundree and I introduce you... if all goes well, he'll take you to a good mage academy, where you'll get a good education in the magical arts."

Tucker nods, following after you at a slight distance. He glances at the people walking by, nonchalantly observing them.

You look around the busy street, taking the main thoroughfare. It passes through the market district--perhaps somewhere The Inferno might go--but definitely not a comfortable place for you with how many people there are.

(Make another investigation, insight or perception check... you choose)
(My dice hate me tonight... I got a 9 this time)

The crowd makes you nervous. You feel a strange tension in the air from the coming trial, and know it should be starting in perhaps an hour or so. You try down a side street, somewhere where there isn't as much discomfort.

Tuck follows behind you, still at a distance. He clears his throat. "So, guess this Tribunal thing is kinda a big deal, huh? You gonna be in it?"

"Yes, it is... and I'm going to be part of it, at least as a witness, if not a interrogator." He continues walking, his hood pulled up and looking from side to side. "Where is that old bastard?" He grumbles.

The boy fiddles with a pocketwatch in his hand, twisting the knob. He stuffs it in his pocket. "That sounds cool. You get to execute anybody?"

Tucker doesn't seem like the kind of kid that would carry a pocketwatch.

You also spot a crowd gathered around the bakery. A familiar laugh carries through the noise, and you're sure The Inferno is there.

Alrik gestures to the crowd, turning to Tucker. "Magus Jaundree doesn't take too fondly to thieving... I'd suggest you drop that habit if you want to become a mage."

"I didn't--" Tuck grumbles, scrunching his nose again. He picks at his ear, looking away. "Fine. Whatever, I guess."

You spot Jaundree having a large slice of berry cobbler, retelling a harrowing tale of adventure to some gathered children and their parents.

The Inferno raises his hand, "--And then WHAM! The beast didn't know what hit him!" He chuckles loudly, his mustache wiggling. "Needless to say we had a fantastic barbecue that night!"

Alrik smirks, not being able to help himself. "Don't listen to the old coot, his memory went with his hair..."

"What?!" Magus Jaundree snaps staight up in his seat, looking around. "Tempest, don't you know it's not nice to make fun of your elders? HA!" He chuckles, the children around him giggling and running off, dragging their parents with them. You see some eyes turn toward you, Alrik, and quite a few whispers... but most people leave you both alone.

"Jaundree, I have someone I think you'd like to meet..." Alrik gives Tucker a gentle push forward.

Tucker grunts a little, stiff as a board. He looks down at his shoes, his freckles standing out even more than usual. "H-hi, sir."

Jaundree raises an eyebrow, a smile growing. "Oh? Who do we have here, Alrik? I suspect you did not bring this lad to hear my epic of the great dire boar of Harros Nueve?" He chuckles, leaning back and twizzling his mustache. He studies Tucker with interest, taking in his stance and attire.

"A promising lad... I won't go into details, but he was able to hold a ring of mine without blowing himself up..." Alrik holds up his hand, the ring of spell storing on his finger.

The Inferno leans forward, peering into Tucker's eyes. The boy looks flustered. "Y-yeah. I won't be shy tellin' him." He glances at Alrik, puffing up his chest a little. He lifts his chin, addressing Jaundree.

"I didn't just use it, I took it! I was able to get his ring from him, and get past him! He didn't scare me. And neither does magic."

(Chant... I'd actually like for you to rp as Jaundree here... how's that sound? :) )

Jaundree smiles, his mustache tweaking out at an angle. "Took it, did you? And tell me, young lad... how did you manage to overpower The Tempest, and take his ring?"

The corner of Tuck's mouth twitches. "I used tactical stealth..."  (12 deception.... lol)

Jaundree chuckles, taking another bite of his cobbler. "And just what is 'tactical stealth' that you used?"

He thinks for a minute. You see him really trying hard to come up with something good.

"I studied my target. Choose an opportune time to strike. Moved quickly, and got in and out before he had time to notice."

The Inferno looks at Alrik, a twinkle in his eyes. He knows his old pupil too well, and knows he wouldn't let such a thing out of his possession, unless it was the perfect situation. "Stole it from him while he was passed out, no doubt..."

He stands up to his full height, brushing a couple crumbs off his shirt and looking down at Tucker. "Know this, lad... The Mage Guard doesn't tolerate thievery of any sort. Clean up your ways if you want to be one of us..."

He sniffs, wiping his nose. "Yeah, or you can train your Mage Guard to be more, ya know, on guard." Tucker kicks at the ground a little. "Not be sleezin' around town drinking and whoring and leavin' your goods out to get nicked." He looks up at Jaundree with as much moxie as he can muster. "I would be a million times better than that."

Magus Jaundree drops all guise of amusement on his face and looks Tucker dead in the eye. "That's your first test failed, boy. Alrik told me about your little stunt in a letter. I know what you did, and that was reckless as all hell. You're lucky you didn't murder everyone around you."

He stoops down and whispers in his ear, "the ONLY reason you were able to pull off such a cowardly act is because The Tempest had just cast a spell powerful enough to nearly kill him... I guarantee if he was conscious, and your tried what you did..." he backs away, meeting his gaze with a hard look. "You and I wouldn't be having this conversation."

Tucker can't maintain eye contact anymore. He looks down, full of shame and anger. You can tell he's struggling with the temptation to bolt right out of there and not look back...

It takes all of his willpower to speak again. "I-I'm sorry... Sir."

"That's your second test... and you passed. Admitting you were wrong and saying you are sorry is a lesson everyone could benefit from."

He fishes out a couple gold coins from his pocket, handing them to Tucker. "You look half starved, boy... go buy you and your friends a decent meal. Don't go spending it on candy or other junk, I'll know if you do!"

Tucker winces, his pride stinging from the remark and the handout. "T-thank you. Sir." He bows awkwardly, avoids eye contact with Alrik, and quickly walks out from the seating area at the bakery. He's gone in the blink of an eye.

Alrik, you watch Tucker disappear into the crowds. The Inferno places his hand on your shoulder, a twinkle in his eye. "He's not wrong though... you can't let your guard down, soldier. That was dangerous." He pats it, then lets go.

He begins to lead the way back to the docks. "What are your thoughts about this boy?"

"Zeed was SUPPOSED to be watching me..." The Storm Caller follows after him. "But I understand what you mean... and as for Tucker... if anyone can turn his life around it'll be you. The God's know you've had lots of practice..." he smirks

The Inferno laughs loudly. "I still swear you're the reason I lost all my hair..." He rubs his bald head.

"Let me give it some thought. We'll need to handle this Tribunal and head down south for a bit, but we'll be back this way in a week or so.. let me know about the boy. He can travel back with us if he's ready."

Arriving at the docks, you see Atriox walking over to the ship. There are several people from town that you recognize, but mostly commoners and sailors coming into port.

Alrik nudges Magus Jaundree. "You uhhh... wouldn't happen to have a new uniform for me on board, would you? Mine got a bit shredded.... dragon and all."

"Of course... always have to carry around a few extra for each of the guard. Your room is still there, down the hall." He points the way for you. "I'll see you down below... t-minus 15 minutes."

You're well aware that on board The Juniper is a large area below deck... down in the belly of the ship. You've been there only once or twice, but it's definitely an experience you've never forgotten.

Atriox, still outside the ship... you spot Bitey up on board, leaning against the railing. He sees you and salutes with two fingers, quiet like always. He gestures to the left, and you see further along the deck--the drow and the dragonborn mage guard, deep in a discussion.

Alrik nods, heading to the quarters set up for him on board, waving at Nathbryn and Thayassa as he heads down below deck.

You find your room just the way you left it... rather plain and unadorned, a simple traveling room and nothing more. Finding a clean and unmarred pair of clothes you swap out your tattered and bloody ones. It feels nice to finally be in something fresh again.

----

Atriox... Wrapping up with the mayor, you excuse yourself and head back outside into the bright, hot sunlight. Not too far down the road is the temple. Perhaps time for one more pit stop before heading to the docks for the Tribunal... You still haven't seen Bitey, Zeed or Tank yet today.

Atriox grumbles to himself
"I was going to go get this bracelet done.........but I want to check on my boys before I'm tied down by the trial."

Atriox heads to the inn quickly.

You step over a few people snoozing by the doorway and push the double doors in. Over in the corner is Zeed, passed out with a trumpet on his head. Tank sits nearby at a table, sprawled out across the top. It seems he likes to sleep like that, as it's the second time you've found him that way.

The barmaid tsks as you walk in. "Atriox, my lad... fine party. I'm sad you missed it. I didn't bother waking up those two fellas or makin' em head to a room. None of my beds are fit for the bigin', and Zeed... ha." She snickers. "He could use the sleep. How is everything going?"

Atriox smiles at the lady. "Its a very busy day. I'm a little tense but I'll live I'm sure. I just came to check on my boys is all. Odd I haven't seen Bitey at all. I'm worried."

"Bitey? Oh he stopped in this morning." She takes a rag, wiping the counter. "He stopped in to check on them, then I think... maybe headed down to the docks? He didn't say much. Never does." She smiles.

Atrioxs throws a few gold on the counter

"Appreciate it madam. I'm going to wake these fools up and go to the docks myself."

She nods to you with a smile, tossing the rag into a dirty wash basin.  Tank lets out a mighty snore, then gives a little low giggle a little in his sleep.

Atriox walks over to the boys and wakes them up trying not to be to rough.

Zeed snorts awake, the noise sounding odd within the horn. He snatches it off of his head, blinking his beady eyes. "W-hat? OH! Hiya boss! Ya missed the party."

Tank literally snores, rolling off of the table and onto the floor with a resounding thud.

Atriox rolls his eyes.

"Because I was making sure we had more reasons to celebrate and party. Now get up hurry now. I have a job for you and you best not fudge it up! You hear ? You had your fun now it's the next day. Take this bracelet. Go to the temple and give it to Petvin. He'll know what to do with it. See if he can help you sober up as well. Then go and find Bitey. I heard he was going to the docks. Make sure to leave the bracelet with Petvin now."

Atriox starts to walk away but stops and looks back with a smile.

"I'm glad you boys had fun last night. You definitely earned it. Now go on. Make me proud Dragonshore Elite !"

Atriox heads for the tribunal.

---

Atriox, still outside the ship... you spot Bitey up on board, leaning against the railing. He sees you and salutes with two fingers, quiet like always. He gestures to the left, and you see further along the deck--the drow and the dragonborn mage guard, deep in a discussion.

Atriox nods in appreciation. He boards the ship and passes by Bitey "stay out of site but stay close"

Bitey nods, continuing to lean on the rail and blending in with the crowd. He watches you closely, making sure to keep you in sight.

Atriox heads torwards the Drow and female Dragonborn.

The Scourge and The Blizzard pause their conversation as they see you approach. T'sossz, the drow, eyes you up and down. Talking more to her associate than you, she says, "He does seem like what they described... definitely the one that helped Tempest bring in the mad wizard." Her eyes flicker with something you can't describe. The dragonborn just nods.

Alrik looks at himself in the mirror, running his hand over the signature patch denoting him as The Tempest. He pulls out his knife and holds it up to begin cutting the stitching, but pauses and sheathes his knife. "Best look professional, I guess."

He walks back up to the main deck and over to his compatriots of the Elite, first addressing Nathbryn, followed quickly by The Blizzard. "Hello. I'm glad we can finally meet, although the circumstances aren't exactly ideal. I am Alrik." He slightly bows his head as he greets them, attempting to show his respects

T'sossz smiles. "Welcome back. Been a long time... I thought you might be dead, dropping off the map like that."

He claps Atriox on the shoulder. "Allow me to introduce Atriox. He has been my traveling companion for the past little while. We've had a fair bit of trouble since coming to town... most notably the problem with the mad wizard."

Thayassa nods, her white horns catching the light. "Saw you when you came aboard, Storm summoner... Wux vorqa phlita." She comments in draconic. "You looked terrible. More trouble?"

"Atriox, this is Nathbryn T'sossz, The Scourge." He gestures to the Drow with a flourish of his hand.

"This is Thayassa Kelxul, The Blizzard." In reply to her, he scratches his neck, trying to play it off as nothing. "Yeah, a bit... we ran into a dragon that wasn't too happy to see us..."

Atriox grunts
"Though it was indeed a hard battle. The magnificent beast couldn't match our might and team work."

Atriox claps Alrik on the shoulder back and then turns his attention back to the two lady's. He bows first  to the Drow

Using comprehend languages he says in Drow

"    Vendui'Jabbuk. Usstan inbal nym'uerus tesso d'l'elgluth. (Greetings Master. I have heard tell of the scourge.) Now that I have the great pleasure to see you in person I no longer doubt any of them. I would not wish your wrath upon my worst enemy my lady."

Atriox looks to the dragonborn now. Though he respects the drows reputation the female dragonborn holds his attention much more easily. He is not accustomed to seeing his own kind let alone a female.
He bows deeply

"fekiikiri fair vur nao pliso di wer civip. si mi tiichia vur ibleuada ekess tafiaf wux.(Greetings fair and wise master of the frost. I am honored and humbled to meet you.) You are somewhat of a legend amongst our kind."

Nathbryn raises an eyebrow at Atriox, a little taken aback by his use of her native language. "Ele vel'bol xun udos inbal ghil? natha tagnik'zur le'i vel'uss shlu'ta telanth lil' xanalress de' ilythiiri? opholudou...." (Why what do we have here? A dragon kin who can speak the language of drow? Fascinating...)

She passes by the dragonborn with a graceful gait. "I'll be inside, Thayassa dear. Looking forward to today..." The smile on her lips sends a shiver down your spine.

Thayassa watches The Scourge go, turning her attention to you both. "Atriox..." She lingers on your name for a moment, pondering it. "Quite the eloquent speaker you are. Where do you hail from?"

Atriox looks at her. A brief moment of sadness plays out on his eyes but its quickly gone. He try's a neutral smile

"I was once the Prince of the kingdom of Skyhold. But as Alrik recently reminded me a prince of a dead nation might as well be no prince at all.......... but that does not matter. I thank you for what I hope was a compliment. If I may be so bold what about you Master Kelxul. Where do you hail from ?"

The Blizzard brushes her claws over a pendant hanging from around her neck--a very intricate and beautiful symbol of two interlocking elm trees. "The nation of Thambh'ait." She flashes a small smile. You remember the name from your studies as a young dragonborn--it's a city of immense size and grandeur, home to mostly draconic races. It's said that it's near a thin veil in the planes.. where access to the elemental realms of water and air meet.

Atriox smiles. "I have always wanted to visit your homeland. I have heard so much tales. Skyhold was amazing but I doubt it could measure the beauty of your homeland."

Thayassa smiles coolly. "It is definitely worth a visit. I think you would have a fine time there... once-prince Atriox." You feel a cold magical aura from her, somewhat nice in the hot summer weather. "I have heard of your... Skyhold... I did not know any of the children of the throne survived the slaughter. It was sad news indeed when we heard word of it. I apologize for your loss."

Atriox kindly waves her apology off with his hand

"You had nothing to do with it......I hope. (Said in humor) You have nothing to apologize for. Had we someone of your strength and knowledge maybe things would have been different. Indeed I confess I don't remember much from that night. Flames, screams, I had no idea where my parents where. I was only 8. I remember my old fighting master who was a dear friend to my family getting me to a secret escape tunnel and telling me to run before he sealed it. Like a coward I did exactly that........ i ran. I remember finally stopping miles away on a hill looking out over the grasslands as my home burned. A massive army of black clad figures laying siege to my home........."

He finally stops and looks up. He gets a look of utter embarrassment at  forgetting his surroundings and company.

"My deepest apologies my lady. I didn't mean to ruin the mood......er the pleasant conversation. My problems and demons do not concern you. I'm sure someone of your stature has many more important problems. Dragonshore is lucky to have the opportunity to host you."

He bows his head in respect while staying upright.

A bell sounds somewhere on board the ship. The Blizzard puts a frigid claw on your shoulder, Atriox. "You are a brave young boy, to have gone through so much. There is much more to come, I'm afraid... beyond all our borders." She gives you a steady look, her icy blue eyes piercing.

"Come. Let's retire to the Tribunal."

Alrik... as the dragonborns talk, something catches your attention from the corner of your eye. A certain tiefling has just walked aboard, dressed in one of his finer suits. He has a small envelope in hand, likely a summons to be at the trial. Looking around with a slightly bored expression, he searches for where he needs to go.

Alrik takes a deep breath to calm his nerves, and walks over to Oxious. "You can wait up here for Magus Jaundree, or you can head down to the meeting hall. Down those stairs and to the end of the corridor." He points to the open hatch on the deck. "Also, with your permission, I'd like to speak with you in private before the tribunal..."

His eye twitches slightly. "Yes, that's fine. We may speak. I'm not partial being late, so lead the way."

Oxious takes a breath as he walks through. The room is large, spanning the bulk of the ship--but it is quiet. None of the sounds of water nor the rocking of the waves touching this place. Entirely comprised of black wood floors and pale walls, there is a haunting feeling here despite the warm lights. It definitely commands an aura of seriousness. 
A few people have gathered, taking seats near the side. There is an area set up for those judging and asking questions, and a space in the middle marked with a large circle of truth... and a few other strange symbols.

The tiefling looks around, adjusting his coat. "What do you wish to discuss, Tempest?"

Alrik gestures to an unoccupied corner, walking over and leaning against the wall. "It isn't too late, Oxious. I have until the moment Jaundree calls the tribunal to order to drop the charges... just be honest with me. Tell me everything. Tell me why... don't make this more difficult than it has to be." (16 persuasion...? Lol)

Oxious looks annoyed. He clicks his tongue. "Tell you why, what? I did nothing wrong." He hisses through his teeth. "I did not. Harm. That. Girl. I did not and have never once worked within the arts of Necromancy. OR attempted association with those that do. What do you want from me? What do you want me to say?"

For the first time he looks flustered. He turns away for a moment. "You weren't in that room. You didn't hear what we discussed.... She asked me to. Begged me to!" He hisses, visibly upset. "She couldn't remember the memories herself! You should know how hard that was for her, you questioned her too! You found her in that accursed--"

He stops, his eyes wide in horror. You turn Alrik, a shiver running down your spine.

Trak'skulan, The Corpse, has just entered to take his seat. He seems aware of the effect his presence has on those around him. Bald, with gaunt, gray skin stretched too tightly over a skull, his skeletal hands silently move a chair back so he can take a seat. His jaw and mouth, once perhaps stitched closed, now bears scars from the twine above his thin yellow teeth. Most of all... his eyes unnerve you. The dead, lifeless eyes of a lich.

Jaundree and Nathbryn T'sossz enter, stone faced and calm. They both take seats, The Inferno in the middle. The other Mage Guard sit off to the side, the last of the people filing in.

Oxious swallows the lump in his throat. He gives Alrik a hard look, putting his hand on the man's shoulder. "Look, I know I'm not a saint. I know that. Please." You can hear the strain in his voice. You've never heard him like this.

Alrik clenches his teeth, forcing himself back to the situation in front of him. He grabs Oxious by the shoulders and shakes him. "Damn it man, I did hear parts! You mentioned the symbol... you said something along the lines of 'and now the Tempest knows of the symbol'..." Alrik watches as Magus Jaundree enters, and hangs his head. "You have mere seconds before he calls this to order..."

The tiefling grits his teeth. "Of course I knew the symbol! Your damn lizard went around asking every freaking person for it! Why isn't HE here on trial?!" He tries to breathe deeply, his breath shaky. "I mentioned your name because--" Another bell sounds above you both, making your skulls vibrate with the force.

Alrik grits his teeth and punches the wall. "It's too late now, Oxious..." he turns and walks away, taking his seat between Nathbryn and Breehani.

 Alrik meets the gaze of Magus Jaundree and gives a small nod before once again standing and walking to the center of the room. "Oxious, you have been called to come before the Elite for a tribunal. Do you have any words to say on your own behalf?"

Alrik gestures for the tiefling to take the seat in the center of the room.

Oxious looks like he is going to be sick. He goes and stands in the center of the room, well aware that it is a high level enchantment, a circle of Truth.

"All I wish to say is that I care about the city. And I take care of it. I wouldn't do anything to harm the people here. I wouldn't chance the loss of my business over something like what I'm being called here for today."

Alrik looks once more at Jaundree, giving a curt nod before walking back to his seat. "I have no questions at this time."

Nathbryn T'sossz stands and approaches the tiefling, a cat of 9 tails hanging from her belt. "Why do you think you've been summoned here today, Mr. Oxious?"

As she speaks she circles him, running a fingertip up his arm and across his shoulders and down the other arm. Her fingernails appear to have a green hue to them, as if they've been painted.

The Wizard eyes her warily, an involuntary shiver running up his spine.

"The Tempest has made it clear to me that he believes I am assisting some... Crazed necromancer. Which I have always and will continue to adamantly deny."

The Scourge cocks her head slightly, looking Oxious in the eye and tapping her lips with her index finger. "You admit he believes it, but you rebuke his beliefs... I wonder, though... if they are in fact, truth?"

She approaches him slowly, getting within a foot of him and leaning down to look him in the eye. "Have you encountered the necromancer of which Alrik has spoken of?"

  He looks panicked having her so close to his face. "Never!"

While still being close to him, she turns her head and looks at Alrik. "Curious..."

She once again begins circling him, the heels of her boots clacking against the wood being the only sound heard for what feels like an eternity. She stops behind him, placing both her hands on his shoulders and leaning forward and loudly whispering in his ear, "I wonder how the necromancer got into your place of business, was able to brainwash one of your girls, and get out before a wizard such as yourself caught on... too busy with other nefarious activities?" (Rolled a 16 for intimidation)

"I-I..." He swallows painfully, trying to keep a straight face. " I'm not always at my place of business, I have a lot of other responsibilities both in and out of town. We don't usually vet people that come to the...spa."

" I've had strict rules with my employees before that they are not to take gifts or bribes from customers. And since then I've implemented new security..."

He turns to stare her in the eye. " I would never want harm to come to any of my employees. They're like family to me."

The Scourge takes a step back and removes the cat of 9 tails from her belt, dragging it across the floor behind her as she walks around in front of him. "You did not answer my question, dear man... were you doing other nefarious activities?"

Atriox stands in objection

"If this how this trial is going to continue than it should not be happening! With respect and reverence Master Scourge you all have been summoned to ascertain weather Oxious is working with a necromancer and to question the mad mage ! What Oxious is or does beyond that is not up to you but a matter of local magistrates."

The dark elf gives Atriox a long, sideways glance before returning her gaze to Oxious. "Atriox... was it?" She again starts circling the tiefling, watching Atriox the entire time. "Baseline questions must be asked. A deck of truth needs to be established. If we just started in directly asking the hard questions... how would we know if he's lying?"

She gestures to the circle on the floor with her whip. "While this is a Zone of Truth enchantment, there are... ways... to cheat it. I prefer to rely on more than just magic."

She tosses the whip tails over her shoulder, standing once more in front of Oxious, a discomforting smirk on her face. "If you'd be so kind as to answer my previous question, Mr. Oxious..."

 Oxious holds his chin up, a little more confidence gained from the dragonborn. He looks the Scourge straight in the eye.

"Am I on trial for all my life's sins? Am I at a confessional for our local priest for my last Will and testament? No. And no, I was doing NO nefarious things that evening." He glares at her. "Why don't you believe me? I am not. In league. With necromancers."

He stares at the rest of the mage guard. "I do not. Dabble. In necromancy."

She smiles, placing the whip on his shoulder, the tails falling across his back and side. "I never said I didn't believe you... I'm merely asking questions to form an idea of your truth. We all have our own ways of doing so."

With a flip of her wrist, the cat of 9 tails flies off his shoulder as she walks back to her seat. "No more questions from me at this time, Jaundree..."

Oxious stares incredulously. "Fantastic. Then when can I go home and stop being part of this ridiculous game?" He shoots Alrik a dirty look.

A raspy, cold voice fills the hall, no louder than a whisper but everyone somehow hears it. The voice alone causes many people, including Alrik, to shudder. "Mind your temper, and remember who you are speaking to..."

"I'm talking to elitists throwing their weight around..." He mutters under his breath.

He shivers, addressing the Corpse with as much poise as possible. He speaks slowly and clearly, attempting to keep the tremble out of his voice.

"I'm just keen to hear the evidence you have to place against me--if any--other than circumstantial hearsay and accusations. Otherwise there is no case."

Atriox grunts making sure not to raise his voice but definitely putting some growl into his voice looking straight at the Corpse.

"Indeed. I think we are all anxious to hear what evidence this elite council has. And I remind you........corpse master that you and your fellow mages are guests in this town. I advise you to remember that and watch where you level threats."

Atriox slams the bottom of his glaive onto the floor. Not using his full strength but enough to make a noticeable thud

The Corpse turns his head to face the dragonborn. There's an audible hiss from his mouth and a strangely stretched smile. His eyes look like the void.

"We are not guests... We are a judicial system. Called to deal with those of our... Jurisdiction." His voice feels like spiders crawling in your ears.

"Your precious mayor has signed documents stating our overriding power here. You do not have power over us or our charges."

He stands noiselessly, like a spectre. "Called to to deal with deeds that could... and would... destroy your pitiful city overnight... I would know." His smile stretches more. "Once upon a time... But we extend help, and do not take kindly to disrespectful pups." He turns back to Oxious.

Atriox full on snarls but holds his rage back

Magus Jaundree clears his throat, standing from his chair. "I suggest everyone takes a deep breath and calms themselves... we are here with purpose, and each of the Mage Guard have their own techniques for getting the truthful answers..."

He turns and looks at the crowd, stopping his gaze at Atriox a bit longer than the rest. "I would ask that no more outbursts occur. You will all have a chance to speak."

He sits back down with a wave of his hand, gesturing for The Corpse to take his seat. Trak'skulan nods slightly, the smile turning more upward and pulling at his jaw.

Breehani clears her throat and hops down from her chair, walking toward Oxious and making shooing motions with her hand toward The Corpse. She stops in front of him, looking up and meeting his gaze while tapping her cane on the floor. "Now, young man... what did you do that gave our youngest member reason to believe you are aligned with a necromancer?"

"I don't--" he sighs, flustered.  Oxious looks down at Breehani, preferring her demeanour over the Corpse any day.

"He was spying on me while I spoke with my employee--the one in question--I wasn't sure if she was still under the effects of the necromancer, so I was using precautions... To protect both her and myself. She had partial amnesia from the events."

He looks intently at Breehani. "The Tempest must have misinterpreted what she and I were discussing. I was using magic with her... I specialize in conjuration, illusion and enchantment spells... He told me he saw a ring. What he saw was me prestidigitate a ring my employee described. I was designing it to her given details... So I could better understand what magic affected her. To help her."

The Enigma begins to pace back and forth in front of him, her cane clacking out in front of her. "I see. Yes, young Alrik does tend to react quickly... it's one of the reasons he's alive today. Perhaps he did act rashly, but there must be some truth to his actions... some bit of evidence he saw that illicited him to do what he did." She stops and looks at him, squinting above her spectacles for quite some time before adding, "tell me about the gloves..."

He hesitates and looks down. "With her amnesia I really wasn't able to get much information from her. She was terrified. Scared of what happened to her. She wanted to know."

He looks up. "I suggested I had a magic item that could.... Help pry the memories free. I warned her it wasn't... comfortable." He looks pained. "But she requested we do it."

His foot bounces. "So we did. Once we both saw the details... I felt it necessary to take her to my house to protect her and take care of her."
She nods. "You are aware such magic is restricted, and without the proper registration someone found in the possession of such enchantments can be fined and even imprisoned for a period of time?"

Once again she starts pacing. "However, even without the proper paperwork and licensing, it seems your intent was nothing malicious... but..." she stops and points the cane at him. "Alrik's instincts could prove true on one thing... while you say you were moving her to your house to protect her, one could also assume you were fleeing. Running... were you? And if you were, why?"

He stutters. "I was not! And when he broke in my back door and busted into my house, magic blazing, what was I doing!?" He points at Atriox.

"He was there too, he can vouch for me! I was taking care of the poor girl. Healing her, comforting her! She was crying in my arms. We were just sitting and resting. No restraints, no items. My first priority was her."

Atriox steps forward a bit

"Master. I do not see this girl here. If any one here doubts Oxious intent or weather he is telling the truth I humbly demand that the girl in question be brought forward and put in the truth circle. She will not know how to circumvent that circle. Surely what she has to say on the matter is very relevant. As to Oxious statement I back his statement up. While Alrik may of had reason to worry that does not give him a right to attack someone in there own home when they haven't been attacked themselves. Especially when said member of the mage guard is breaking and entering......... sorry Alrik. This girl even tried to explain to Alrik the situation  but he would not listen he was full on enraged and would not see past his own opinion on the matter."

Atriox respectfully steps back

Breehani turns and looks at Atriox. "Perhaps... but I have a better idea. If Oxious would allow it, I will go to his house, and using a spell, turn back time ... so to speak... so that I may view the events of that day for myself... and please refrain from speaking out, my dear... it's a shame when someone is thrown from the tribunal hall."

She again faces Oxious. "May I enter your home and perform a spell and look around for anything that could help you?"

Oxious looks a bit green. He seems confused if there's a spell like that. "I-I suppose. No events of that day are an issue. Though what Alrik has accused me of has mostly come from the Fang... You could search either with a "time spell"? Does such a thing exist?"

The Blizzard speaks in a cool, smooth voice. "I am curious to see this witness, Breehani... Shall I fetch her, dear?"

Alrik stands up, clearing his throat. "This is pointless, Breehani... he's somehow cheating your circle of truth... we've got two options... Trak'skulan, or I drop the charges."

Breehani gives him a look. She narrows her eyes. "If you believe you saw something of issue Tempest, I don't wish to drop charges just yet. Let... Trak'skulan handle him."

She turns and walks away. The others stand. The Blizzard puts her hand on Atriox's shoulder, a frost building on his armor. "This is part of his interrogation...technique. You can trust him. We do not execute sentencing until after the Tribunal is complete."

"Jaundree stays... For safety." She mentions quietly and reassuringly, walking with Atriox.

The Inferno stands, placing his hand on Alrik's shoulder. "Son," He says, turning his eyes the storm mage. "You are new with us still...and have not experienced this before. Do you wish to stay and stand as a witness?"

Alrik stands, looking between the door and Oxious. "I... should stay. I started this, I need to see it through. If I hadn't been so damn stubborn, none of this would be happening..."

He nods. "That's alright. We've all got to trust each other... That's part of being in the Mage Guard." He glances at The Corpse. "All of us."
Jaundree pats Alrik on the back. "You'll be okay."

"I need to learn to trust him..." he mutters under his breath, matching Jaundree's gaze

Atriox turns to leave but stops

"Oxious my freind I will be upstairs. I pray I see you again."

He looks to the rest

"If he doesn't come out of this just how he was guilty or innocent there will be all nine hells to pay. The fact that you cant do this without others watching speaks measures."

Atrioxs spits on the ground visibly infront of the court

"My freind should you perish rest easy knowing I will look after the girls and the fang and run it just like you would. I swear it."

Atriox storms out motioning Bitey to follow expecting the blizzard is somewhere behind them.

Alrik rushes to the door, grabbing Atriox's shoulder. "It isn't that you can't watch... it is that... most people can't handle it. Feel free to stay. I warn you, though... don't try and stop him or interrupt. From what I've heard, it isn't pretty..."

Atriox snorts and says in a sarcastic voice

"No thanks I dont wish to watch the torture of a man who's HASN'T even been found guilty yet. I'm sure you can handle that all on your own."

He knocks of Alriks hand and continues up to the deck

Alrik turns around, not sure if he's making the right decision or not... walking down and holding a hand up, he walks to Oxious and whispers to the tiefling. "I swear on my life that if you will tell me what you've been so hesitant to say, I will drop the charges and not let Trak'skulan anywhere near you..."

Atriox, you head up to the top of the deck, followed by Bitey and The Blizzard. Bitey seems oddly cool about it all...

Above deck Atriox whispers something to Bitey and sends him away quickly then he joins the Blizzard.

 The Blizzard gives you a curious look, Atriox. "Brave of you to speak up. The points you made were well done. You have a very eloquent way with words."

Atriox looks at the Blizzard. "Meet me later at the Fang later if it pleases you. I'd like to talk to another of my kind for once. It's not a privilege I get very often.........you are by far my favorite out of your colleagues."

...

At the sound of the door closing, a strange smile grows on Trak'skulan's face. "Excited for the party, Tempest?"

Oxious looks at Alrik, almost like he's breaking. Pleading. His eyes look terrified. He whispers hoarsely, "I swear, I'm not lying! Please. Please believe me! I just--I happen to collect magic--UGKK!"

A long, thin spear of bone skewers the tiefling through the shoulder, piercing a lung. He gasps, struggling to breathe. His eyes are wild, panicked.

Soft footsteps approach. "What was that, dear sir? I could not hear you. Leave the whispers for the dead... You need to speak louder so the rest of us can hear." The Corpse's breath rattles with dust, a thick pleasure hanging on his words. The Inferno stands nearby, an unreadable mask on his face.

Oxious clenches his teeth. He hisses blood, trying to force the words out. "I-I collect magic... Items... I study cursed artifacts... For research only..."

Trak'skulan walks up, twisting the bone in deeper. A dark magic floods over the weapon into the wound.

The tiefling's eyes glaze over and he goes limp.

"Tsk tsk... Now now I didn't say we were done. Wake up, sunshine." With a skeletal hand pressed to his forehead, Oxious gasps back to consciousness. The gaping black eyes bore into him.  "Anything else you wish to confess on threat of death?"

"I-I smuggle-- Healing-- Petvin!" He cries out. "Please!"

(Trying to play him like he was described... Pardon the intensity)
(They went from a moody trial to brutal AF real fast wtf is going on over there 😂)
(Bruh
(Did I miss something ?)

Alrik looks at Jaundree, his eyes wide. "Make him stop!" He hisses under his breath. "Nobody deserves this!"

Alrik, you hear the slithering voice of  Trak'skulan in your mind, blighting your thoughts.

"My methods are effective for certain subjects. That... is my talent. That is what the Inferno allows me."

Jaundree waits a moment before he holds up a hand, and without looking... the Corpse immediately lets go of the tiefling's forehead.

The Inferno speaks. "I believe he has spilled his guilt, Trak. Save some time for the Maddened. Oxious, for the crimes of which you have admitted guilt, a judgment shall be passed down upon you. You will be notified. We however, find you innocent of murder or assisted murder through the Arts of necromancy." He keeps his gaze steady. "You may leave."

Trak'skulan's spear dissolves. He clamps his boney fingers against the gushing wound. It almost instantly seals up with scar tissue.

Oxious gasps again, clutching his chest and coughing up the last of the blood. Shaking, he stands. "I--I understand. Yes. Thank you."

Alrik rushes forward, grabbing Oxious by the elbow and shoulder. "I am so sorry, I had no idea... it was... that bad. Lets get you home... I'll need your help against the mad mage."

Oxious angrily tries to pull away but almost collapses. He concedes and clutches on to Alrik's hand, struggling with his pride and his unstable gait. "S-sure. Yes. I need to rest."

Alrik leads him upstairs onto the main deck. "Atriox, give me a hand here..." he calls out.

He goes over and in an unwilling manner helps Alrik get Oxious home.

"Let's get him to The Fang... sitting in the jasmine pool and Magnolia's calming singing is what he needs, not being alone at his house." Alrik looks completely shaken, pale and sweaty, nearly matching Oxious's expressions.

Alrik and Atriox finally get Oxious back to the Fang. He's rather quiet, passing out for a nap almost as soon as he gets into a room. Magnolia stops in to see him, but other than that he rests for the remainder of the evening.... no desire to go back to the accursed ship or the Mage Guard again.

Atriox leaves for some time, stopping in at the temple to check on Petvin and his order. Bringing the newly made bracelet back to the Fang, he leaves it in Dahlia's room with a note...

"A parting gift for the princess. Please wear it always. I hope it guards you well."