Rise of Rone - 2018-04-06 - Final Verdict (log)

Olaesta 6-7 and 7-8, 5118

by Leafiara Autumnwind of the [[::The_TownCrier|TownCrier]]

Summary

• Due to the absence of Chamorr and Severine, Renpaw selects alternate jurors Balley and Bernadette to join Alasatia, Drektor, Evician, Fahlo, and Pukk.

• Maylan offers her pegleg as a gavel and Renpaw accepts! Renpaw opens the floor for questions and statements and so begins the trial...

• Marijka calls for leniency in case of guilt, despite being one of those killed by Rone.

• Irar asks how Malluch selected his targets; Malluch claims that as a follower of Jastev he's seen their crimes. He also claims that Mayor Lylia, prior to election, brokered a deal with him to remove [[::Xorus_Kul%27shin|Xorus]] from his list of targets.

• Deckits urges a guilty verdict for multiple public executions and smearing the name of the town and Rone Wehnimer.

• Lafali asks where Malluch learned his skills; Malluch says he trained some when he was young, but trained further in Nydds, especially after learning of Lana's death. He adds that "Rone is not done."

• Madmountan asks Malluch to confirm if he is the same one who attacked him (on the idea that due to a mask it was not 100% certain) or the same one who he gutted, as well as why Rone attacked him, and drops a set of intestines on the ground. (...though on the balcony he later says they were Cruxophim's.) Malluch says Madmountan's scar on his neck is proof of his crimes, his sins aren't buried, and he has nothing more to say.

• Zosopage asks Malluch how he feels about what he's done in hindsight; Malluch says he feels a glimmer of hope that "the town is on the brink of no longer suffering such blatant wickedness." Zosopage further asks if he has any remorse; Malluch says he regrets various things that happened such as those imitating him, his inability to find them, the [[::Rise_of_Rone_-_Bounty_Fraud,_Granthem_Blackouts,_and_a_Triple_Threat#Frauderick|death of an innocent]] which he attributes to [[::Alendrial_DeArchon|Alendrial]]'s bounty, and the prism he set off in town.

• Rhayveign says she was slain despite not once raising a sword or staff to [[::Wehnimer's Landing|Landing]] citizens and asks the jury to act accordingly and lock Malluch up.

• Kipara says Malluch has all but admitted his guilt and is waiting for a farce of a trial to end.

• Stonmel urges a focus on the victims who are no longer here to defend themselves, reviews Malluch's deeds, decries the [[::Wehnimer%27s_Landing_Militia/saved_posts|militia]] as incompetent, argues that leniency is an insult to the victims and their families, decries the town as corrupt but says that's not reason for him (Stonmel) to put arrows through others' eyes, summarizes those points, and then suggests Malluch should reveal evidence against people in power so they can be held to account. Malluch says Stonmel did draw his bow against him and his weakness prevented him from bringing him (Malluch) to justice, while he (Malluch) didn't suffer weakness, and asks if Stonmel despises him for what he did or what Stonmel couldn't do. He asks if evil deserves a day in a court of justice.

• Mayor Lylia asks Malluch to elaborate on his purported bargain with her, whether he was concerned about the morality of slaying a campaign manager before an election, and why he overlooked corruption and bent his ethics to spare Xorus; Malluch says she offered to alter the blood sample of him that Crux collected in exchange for not targeting Xorus. Lylia says she remembers it differently and asks if he's bent his ethics other times, such as framing Crux or slaughtering others for the joy of it. Malluch says he made a strategic decision to prolong his capture and took no joy in anything he did.

• Maylan asks what Malluch meant when he said Rone isn't done; Malluch says Rone is "a movement, an awakening, a rising tide of light that will fight back, in ways that are perhaps not always agreeable, but no war is."

• Berkana asks what Malluch did to remove Crux's magic; Malluch says he injected him with a substance that blocks his ability to touch the streams of mana "so that the wards he has in place to keep himself together will not be kept powered and he will unravel and reveal himself fully." Berkana asks what substance he used; Malluch says he is unable to answer because it was provided to him with few details.

• Leafiara asks if Malluch would be willing to consider joining the militia if he went free; he says yes, but adds that realistically he'd have to leave to avoid causing trouble for his father or being killed. Leafi brings up the Rooks wanting him dead, but Malluch says he's more concerned about the DeArchons and Cruxophim; she says that at the [[::Rise_of_Rone_-_Town_Council_Candidate_Debates_5118,_Night_1#Question_14:_Puptilian_to_all:_The_Best_Other_Candidate|Town Council debate]] he said Alendrial was the best candidate other than him; Malluch says he lied. Leafi mentions that not all of the murders happened in Landing jurisdiction, taking Malluch's punishable murder count down to around forty.

• Malluch makes a closing statement that he regrets the prism he dropped when cornered and the innocent life Frederick took, but that his hope is that "something has changed... and if the winds fan the spark enough, it will burn bright."

• The jury deliberates and finds Malluch guilty of vigilantism by 5 votes and of murder by 6 votes, but will reconvene the next night to decide sentencing.

• The next night, prior to jury deliberations, Stormyrain and Evician inform Renpaw that Deckits had bribed Evician to influence his vote. Renpaw strikes Evician's vote from the record, but doesn't charge him with crime due to his admission; Renpaw charges Deckits with "impropriety, high crimes and contempt," for which he is fined--and, later in the night, cudgel-waving towsnmen take him away and hang him.

• After deliberations, Renpaw states that by unanimous vote the jury has decided that "Malluch will be sentenced to three decades of imprisonment, at which time his crime and punishment will be reviewed. If he is found to be cooperative with the town leaders, militia captains and guards, his sentence can be reduced." Renpaw says Malluch "will be under special care and guard with the town prison, and access controlled and limited, but also extended to Militia Captains."

Log

Alternate Jurors

BOOM! Thunder echoes in the distance.

A town crier announces nearby, "The Trial of Rone shall be underway soon! Please feel free to move to the observation balcony in Moot Hall!"

[Moot Hall, Observation Balcony]

Several rows of hardwood benches line the balcony, each row a bit higher than the previous one in order to provide a view of the proceedings below from every seat. A polished oak railing forms the front barrier of the viewing area, and a narrow stairway leads down.

Judge Renpaw arrives.

Renpaw exclaims, "Good evening!"

Lylia whispers something to Renpaw.

Renpaw peers quizzically at Lylia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Renpaw squints at Lylia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Renpaw glares.

Speaking quietly to Renpaw, Falvicar asks, "What is the trouble, your honor?"

Stormyrain casually asks, "I imagine he's troubled by trying to find alternates since a few of the jurors are not here?"

Renpaw says, "Some unsettling news...yes."

Renpaw says, "Now then, let us proceed."

Renpaw says, "I will remind all those present..."

Renpaw says, "Justice has a way of finding everyone, even if you attempt to control it yourself."

Renpaw says, "Now then..."

Renpaw says, "Evician..."

Renpaw points at Evician.

Renpaw says, "Check."

Renpaw says, "Severine...."

Renpaw frowns.

Renpaw says, "Pukk..."

Renpaw points at Pukk.

Renpaw exclaims, "Check!"

Pukk flails his arms about.

Pukk quietly says, "Oh."

Renpaw says, "Chamorr..."

Renpaw frowns.

Pukk gives a sigh of relief.

Renpaw says, "Drektor.."

Renpaw points at Drektor.

Drektor takes a bite of his cheese sandwich.

Renpaw exclaims, "Check!"

Renpaw says, "Alasatia..."

Renpaw points at Alasatia.

Renpaw exclaims, "Check!"

Renpaw says, "Fahlo..."

Renpaw points at Fahlo.

Fahlo bows.

Renpaw exclaims, "Check!"

Renpaw says, "I will need two alternatives. Please give me a moment."

Renpaw removes a small ledger from his robe that reads, "Citizens."

Elbromo says, "I fear his jury aint much in da way of unbiased."

Speaking softly to Elbromo, Balley asks, "You think he will get a fair trial with the jury?"

Renpaw asks, "Balley, will you accept the role of juror?"

Balley softly says, "Oh um sure."

Renpaw nods.

Renpaw says, "Check!"

Renpaw says, "I shall need one more. Please give me a moment."

Balley softly says, "I guess this is what I get for talking."

Balley giggles.

Renpaw asks, "Bernadette, will you accept the position of final juror?"

Bernadette softly says, "Yes sir."

Bernadette nods.

Renpaw says, "The jurors in the Trial of Rone are: Evician, Pukk, Drektor, Alasatia, Fahlo, Balley, Bernadette."

Renpaw says, "Jurors, please join me."

Bernadette joins Renpaw's group.

Pukk joins Renpaw's group.

Fahlo joins Renpaw's group.

Drektor joins Renpaw's group.

Alasatia joins Renpaw's group.

Balley joins Renpaw's group.

Evician joins Renpaw's group.

Renpaw nods.

Renpaw says, "We will head down below where the prisoner will be escorted."

Signip--Err, Signup List

Renpaw says, "I shall open up this list..."

Renpaw says, "Hah..."

Renpaw says, "Not a signip list..."

Renpaw gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Renpaw blushes a glowing shade of red.

Renpaw says, "I meant signup list...."

Renpaw says, "The other was a mistake, a nip slip."

Renpaw gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Renpaw says, "The list will be open to allow anyone to sign up to come down and ask a question of the prisoner OR provide a statement, for, or against."

Renpaw asks, "Any question?"

Maylan reaches down and removes a discolored mop-fringed pegleg, exposing the lower half of her leg.

Maylan offers Renpaw a discolored mop-fringed pegleg.

Speaking to Renpaw, Maylan asks, "Need a gavel?"

Renpaw laughs at Maylan!

Renpaw accepts Maylan's mop-fringed pegleg.

Renpaw says, "Yes."

Renpaw licks a discolored mop-fringed pegleg in his hand.

Renpaw says, "If time permits, I will allow the jurors to meet and discuss both a verdict, and any punishment, if applicable."

Renpaw says, "If we need additional nights, it will be permitted to allow them time to make a decision. Majority will decide."

Judge Renpaw's group just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Gathering

You recall if you PEER AREA you can view the happenings down below.

[from this point on, attention is focused on what's going on in the chamber unless something yelled from the observation balcony draws a response from below]

Pukk just went over and threw himself down on the chair.

Bernadette takes a plumed vultite warhelm off her head.

Renpaw yells, "The jurors will decide guilt or innocence, and sentencing if deemed guilty."

Bernadette just opened a jet black cloak.

Pukk nods.

Bernadette put a plumed vultite warhelm in her black cloak.

Bernadette just closed a jet black cloak.

Balley nods at Renpaw.

A town clerk prepares the list and gets it ready. The clerk nods.

Evician grins.

Renpaw says, "We will await the prisoner's arrival."

Fahlo nods.

Alasatia examines her fingernails.

Pukk quietly says, "Maybe everybody should take a seat."

Pukk chuckles.

Pukk leans back.

Balley giggles at Pukk.

Alasatia whispers something to Drektor.

Fahlo glances at an elaborately carved chair.

Drektor whispers something to Alasatia.

Fahlo just went over and threw himself down on the chair.

Bernadette rubs her diamond hydra pendant, causing a golden incandescence to dance around its edges briefly.

Alasatia nods slowly at Drektor.

Fahlo leans forward.

(Evician brushes some lint off of his coat.)

Speaking quietly to Fahlo, Pukk says, "I should have brought some cider in with me."

Pukk snaps his fingers.

Evician touches his oak prayer beads lightly as he ponders.

Speaking to Pukk, Fahlo says, "I'm sure there will be ample time and cause for all that after the fact."

Pukk nods at Fahlo.

(Evician covers his mouth and chuckles quietly to himself.)

Drektor takes a bite of his cinnamon twist.

The doors open and two guards walk in, escorting Malluch in between them. He is wearing only a stained grey leather tunic and some frayed dark leather pants. His hands are bound, and heavy chains around his bare feet drag across the floor as he is pushed to the center of the chamber. Despite a few bruises along his neck and left cheek, his grey-speckled cobalt blue eyes still calmly regard those before him, and those above. His dark blonde goatee parts briefly as he offers a small, quick smile.

[from the balcony] Goldstr yells, "Jurors should nae imbide!"

Drektor turns around.

Pukk quietly says, "Cider isn't imbibing."

Pukk chuckles.

Bernadette softly says, "Aye we need to be full of mind."

Bernadette nods.

Evician nods at Bernadette.

Renpaw bangs his discolored pegleg on a desk and says, "Let us begin!"

Balley nods.

Statement #1, From Marijka: Call For Leniency

Renpaw exclaims, "Marijka!"

Marijka nods.

Marijka just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Alasatia smiles at Marijka.

Marijka calmly says, "I would like to make a brief statement, if I may."

Pukk inclines his ear, listening intently.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Marijka.

Renpaw nods.

Renpaw says, "Proceed."

Marijka begins, "As one of the alleged perpetrator's victims, as well as one of those working hardest to capture him, it is clear that I have strong feelings regarding the outcome of this trial. But I have spent much of the past few weeks thinking long about all the events that have taken place, and of course, we now know more about the motivations and intentions than we ever did while we were attempting to hunt him down."

Marijka firmly concludes, "Given these two things, I feel a strong obligation to urge leniency, should he be found guilty. Please remember the emotions that he must have been suffering, and the nobility of the goals he worked towards, however mistaken his methods."

Marijka nods respectfully.

Marijka just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Malluch squints at a narrow stairway.

Renpaw says, "Thank you."

Bernadette nods.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Question #1, From Irar: Victim Selection

Renpaw bangs the pegleg on the table.

Renpaw exclaims, "Irar!"

Irar nods.

Irar just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Irar nods at Malluch.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Irar.

Speaking to Renpaw, Irar says, "Thank you, your honor."

Irar says, "A question for the accused."

Malluch twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

A small dark blue spider on Evician crawls over to his nose.

Evician reaches over to his nose and guides his dark blue spider to his awaiting hand.

Evician lifts his hand to his shoulder where a small dark blue spider crawls over to rest.

Speaking to Malluch, Irar says, "You attacked many adventurers in this town, not just townsfolk. Rhayveign, Madmountan, Marijka, Xorus, several others."

Renpaw tries not to look at Evician's blue spider and get scared.

Evician reaches over to his shoulder and guides his dark blue spider to his awaiting hand.

Speaking to Malluch, Irar asks, "How did you select your victims, and why?"

Evician unfastens the buttons on his royal blue coat and opens it, no longer needing the extra protection from the weather outside.

Evician put a small dark blue spider in his royal blue coat.

Irar says, "Specifics, if you'd be willing."

Evician fastens the buttons on his royal blue coat, bracing himself for the outdoor weather.

Bernadette folds her arms over her chest.

Evician smiles at Renpaw.

Speaking to Malluch, Irar says, "And may Koar grant you fair justice."

Irar bows.

Irar says, "That is all."

Evician nods at Irar.

Irar just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Alasatia smirks.

Evician begins to twitch involuntarily and his wings spasm slightly.

Drektor glances around the room.

Drektor sits down.

Balley ponders.

Balley sits down.

Evician just went over and threw himself down on the chair.

Pukk whispers something to Balley.

Fahlo leans to his left slightly.

Alasatia whispers something to Drektor.

Balley stands up.

Balley just went over and threw herself down on the chair.

Malluch brings his bound hands to his face, rubbing his cheek slightly, caressing a sore jaw.

Balley grins at Pukk.

Pukk chuckles.

Evician furrows his brow.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Malluch.

Malluch says, "First, let me clear up the Deacon's question."

Bernadette nods at Malluch.

Alasatia nods slowly at Drektor.

Balley tilts her head toward Malluch, examining him intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Malluch.

Malluch says, "I did not attack Xorus. In fact, your new Mayor Lylia, before ever elected, brokered a deal with me to remove Xorus from my list of targets."

Evician gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Pukk blinks.

Balley gasps.

Bernadette glances at Malluch.

Bernadette ponders.

Evician stares at Malluch.

Alasatia nods sagely at Drektor.

Malluch says, "To answer on the other targets..."

Malluch says, "I am a follower of Jastev. I have seen the crimes of many."

Drektor stands up.

Malluch says, "Those who I attacked, they know their crimes, they know their sins."

Malluch says, "But you have chosen to put me on trial this night, and not them. So I can, and will, only answer for my own."

Drektor sits down next to a burnished oak bench.

Alasatia nods once at Drektor.

Malluch says, "I am done, your Honor."

Renpaw glances at a narrow stairway.

Renpaw nods.

Statement #2, From Deckits: Guilty Verdict

Renpaw bangs the pegleg on the table.

Deckits just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Renpaw says, "Deckits..."

Renpaw nods.

(Deckits greets the Jury, and Renpaw.)

Deckits nods.

Deckits says, "Good Evening."

Alasatia smiles at Deckits.

Deckits says, "I have prepared a statement, I have no questions for this filth."

Deckits paces back and forth.

Deckits says, "Malluch has distorted the history of the town to his own end."

Deckits says, "He took what is known as the town's esteemed founder..."

Deckits says, "...sullied it to fit his own desires clamoring to his own, so called justice."

Deckits shifts his eyes to Malluch.

Deckits says, "As we were investigating his movements which many of you also participated, when we were apparently close he would in turn threaten more lives, myself included."

Deckits says, "At this point he will say anything to justify himself, to save.. his own life, and the reputation of his family."

Deckits squints at Malluch.

Deckits walks toward Malluch.

Deckits says, "He cannot be trusted, and cannot be given leniency."

Deckits walks toward Alasatia.

Deckits says, "For multiple public executions he carried out, for smearing the town, and Rone's reputation, I urge you all to find him guilty."

Deckits nods.

Deckits says, "It is for our future fortunes I bid you to make sure the message is sent to everyone."

Deckits says, "Good evening to you all, may your decisions be true."

Holding the edge of his black silk cape, Deckits dips an elegant bow. The cape billows out behind him as if caught upon an unfelt breeze. Deckits glances up and flashes an evil grin. The tips of his solid diamond fangs are clearly visible protruding from beneath his upper lip.

Deckits just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Fahlo shifts his weight.

Pukk ponders.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Pukk frowns.

(Evician mumbles something under his breath and writes something down on a piece of parchment.)

A small azure spider on Bernadette crawls over to her right forearm.

Renpaw says, "Thank you..."

Question #2, From Lafali: Malluch's Skills

Renpaw exclaims, "Lafali!"

Renpaw says, "Allow me a moment though..."

Fahlo nods.

Renpaw says, "Forgive me in my old age..."

Bernadette nods at Renpaw.

Balley nods at Renpaw.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "The accusation against Malluch, is that he acted as a vigilante, naming himself Rone, and attacking and murdering people of town." [in response to balcony discussion about what exactly Malluch was on trial for]

Evician nods at Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "Those who sign up for the list, are able to either ask a question, or make a statement, for or against."

Alasatia grins at Drektor.

Renpaw says, "The jurors will determine innocence or guilt, and if guilty, they will decide the punishment. Majority rules on both."

Renpaw says, "Now then..."

Renpaw yells, "Lafali!"

Lafali just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Lafali smiles at Renpaw.

Evician nods at Renpaw.

Alasatia looks at Lafali and hums.

Lafali turns to face Malluch.

Malluch smiles at Lafali.

Speaking to Malluch, Lafali says, "I wonder, where did you learn your skills? Especially those used upon the former Mayor."

Alasatia agrees with Drektor.

Lafali folds her hands behind her back.

Evician nods at Balley.

Pukk examines his fingernails.

[bit of a pause; Kenstrom has to step away]

Bernadette peers quizzically at Malluch.

Pukk frowns.

Pukk agrees with Fahlo.

Balley glances at Malluch.

Evician gazes in wonder at his surroundings.

Bernadette smiles quietly to herself.

Evician appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Malluch says, "I have spent a few periods of my life south in the Empire."

Balley shivers.

Malluch says, "I had begun training when I was young, here, in my home, but primarily to impress girls."

Alasatia clears her throat.

Lafali says, "Ah girls...thank you sir."

Lafali inclines her head.

Lafali just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Bernadette nods at Malluch.

Malluch says, "In Nydds my father wanted me to learn more and educate myself, and I did to some extent, but when I went back the second time, and eventually learned of Lana's fate, I made sure I put my practice to a new focus."

Alasatia grins crookedly at a narrow stairway.

Malluch gazes heavenward.

Malluch says, "I wasn't done."

Malluch says, "But I suppose Rone isn't done."

Renpaw says, "Well, I suppose that question is over."

Statement #3 and Question #3, From Madmountan: Identity Confirmation

Renpaw bangs the pegleg.

Renpaw exclaims, "Madmountan!"

Marshal Madmountan just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Madmountan says, "Judge Renpaw. Ladies and Gentleman of the jury. If it pleases the court, I would like to make a brief statement and then ask the accused a compound question."

(Evician licks his lips and wipes his chin off in a napkin.)

Madmountan grins.

Evician grins at Madmountan.

Bernadette nods at Madmountan.

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Madmountan.

Madmountan says, "I'll just proceed without leave of the court."

Madmountan says, "As most everyone in attendance knows, I was one of the people who was attacked by someone calling himself "Rone." Although the attack was brutal, it was not successful, and I did not die. As much as I would like this man Malluch to be found guilty of my attempted murder, should he in fact be the culprit, I cannot say for certain that he is. Although we did find Malluch dressed similarly to "Rone", wearing a similar mask, and similar gauntlets, and having the same colored eyes, I cannot say with certainty that this is the same man."

Speaking to Malluch, Madmountan says, "Having said that, would the accused care to confirm or deny that he is the one who attacked me? Why in particular was I targetted? I realize there are many potential reasons. And are you the man that I gruesomly gutted with my blade while attempting to end "Rone" myself? If so, I have something you may have lost."

Madmountan removes a length of withered black intestines from in his black battlepack.

Madmountan drops a length of withered black intestines.

Renpaw tilts his mop-fringed pegleg side to side, making the light play off it.

Renpaw glances at Madmountan.

Renpaw asks, "Is...that necessary?"

Renpaw says, "Pick that up."

Madmountan picks up a length of withered black intestines.

Madmountan turns the intestines over in his hands, examining it in minute detail.

Madmountan gives a length of withered black intestines a final turn, and you watch as it begins to wither before your eyes. Within seconds, the intestines is brittle and then nothing more than sanguine dust that slips through his fingers.

Drektor makes a sour face.

Madmountan grins stupidly.

Evician smirks at Madmountan.

A pained expression crosses Bernadette's face.

Fahlo furrows his brow.

Alasatia whispers something to Drektor.

Malluch says, "Your scar on your neck is more than enough evidence of your line of crimes."

Malluch says, "Of which did not stop once you came back here, swaddled in your shadows and Kestrels."

Drektor shifts his weight.

Madmountan grins at Malluch.

Malluch says, "Dennet's buried."

Malluch says, "Your sins are not."

Malluch says, "I have nothing further to say to you."

Madmountan snorts derisively at Malluch!

Marshal Madmountan just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Pukk rubs his chin thoughtfully.

Question #4, From Zosopage: Feelings in Hindsight

Renpaw bangs the pegleg on the table.

Renpaw says, "Zosopage."

Zosopage just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Zosopage bows respectfully before Renpaw, his eyes fixed firmly on the ground.

Balley tilts her head toward Zosopage, examining him intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Zosopage turns to face Malluch.

Renpaw bows.

Speaking to Malluch, Zosopage asks, "How do you feel that you inspired good and blinded townsfolk to gather in your likeness in an attempt to thwart your capture and to try and arrest Cruxophim on charges that you are now here on trial for?"

Alasatia furrows her brow.

Zosopage peers quizzically at Malluch.

Malluch asks, "How do I feel about it?"

Malluch says, "A glimmer of hope."

Zosopage says, "Yes."

Bernadette inclines her head.

Bernadette sighs.

Zosopage nods.

Malluch says, "That perhaps the town is on the brink of no longer suffering such blatant wickedness."

Malluch says, "There was a time when this town united and worked together to get rid of the corrupt, like Barnom Slim."

Speaking to Malluch, Zosopage asks, "And how do you feel about another killing an innocent man and dressing him up like you just to get a reward? Some may say it was not your fault but in reality if you hadn't done what you did in the first place, none of that would have happened, correct?"

Malluch says, "It would be years later unfortunately they elected the Lich Slim's spawn."

Malluch says, "Perhaps the pendulum has begun to swing back, out of the shadows."

Malluch says, "Cruxophim is paying for his crimes in a suitable manner, his own unraveling."

Speaking to Malluch, Zosopage asks, "So you have no remorse for what you did or what has transpired over the last couple months?"

Malluch says, "I regret the mockeries."

Malluch says, "I regret the death of an innocent man because of an irresponsible bounty by an irresponsible party."

Speaking to Malluch, Zosopage asks, "But you do not deny that you did these unspeakable things?"

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Bernadette nods.

Malluch says, "If those in power applied as much wisdom and courage to fighting wickedness as they do trying to throw money at the problem, we'd have safer, brighter days ahead."

Malluch asks, "What unspeakable things?"

Balley blinks.

(Evician covers his mouth with a cloth from his coat and coughs into it, placing the cloth back into his coat.)

Speaking to Malluch, Zosopage says, "You need to ask? Murder, disembowelment just to name a couple."

Malluch says, "I regret that my actions drew others out of the shadows, and caused them to kill others, trying to frame me, or copy me."

Malluch says, "I regret I was unable to get to them before you got to me. Because they are still out there."

Malluch says, "And likely watching us from up there as we speak."

Malluch points at a narrow stairway.

Zosopage asks, "But you do not regret the murders you committed yourself?"

Zosopage says, "No further questions."

Malluch asks, "Of the wicked ones?"

Zosopage just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Malluch says, "I regret my prism wounding and killing those in town when I was cornered and had to use Lylia to escape."

Fahlo leans forward.

Balley ponders.

Pukk raises an eyebrow.

Statement #4, From Rhayveign: Act Accordingly

Renpaw exclaims, "Rhayveign!"

Rhayveign just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Rhayveign nods.

Malluch asks, "Is this a list of those asking questions, or those guilty of their own sins?"

Malluch peers quizzically at Renpaw.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Rhayveign.

Renpaw says, "Silence."

Rhayveign says, "Evenin' folks. I have a statement."

Bernadette nods at Rhayveign.

Rhayveign says, "So, I'd like it to be known, I was one of the targeted."

Pukk inclines his ear, listening intently.

Rhayveign says, "I was one of the ones that was murdered, in cold blood, by the accused."

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Rhayveign.

Rhayveign says, "I'm well aware of the rumors that circulate about me in this town. But that's what they are, rumors."

Balley tilts her head toward Rhayveign, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Rhayveign says, "I have not once raised a sword or a staff to any of our citizens and yet I was targeted and slain, in my favorite waterin' hole, too."

Rhayveign asks, "I ask yas to act accordin'ly where the accused is concerned. If he is set free, none of us know if he will take these antics of his to a further level of irrational behavior. If murder isn't enough to punish 'im appropriately, what are we waitin' for 'im to do to have 'im locked 'up off the streets?"

Rhayveign says, "That is all. Thank you."

Evician nods at Rhayveign.

Pukk nods gravely.

Bernadette nods at Rhayveign.

Rhayveign nods.

Rhayveign just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Renpaw nods.

Statement #5, From Kipara: Farce

Renpaw raises the pegleg up, then crashes it down on a table.

Renpaw exclaims, "Kipara!"

Kipara just strode down a narrow stairway.

Kipara bows respectfully, her eyes fixed firmly on the ground.

Kipara says, "I'd only like to make a statement, as opposed to asking a wall a question."

Bernadette nods at Kipara.

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Kipara.

Pukk chuckles to himself.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Kipara.

Balley tilts her head toward Kipara, examining her intently as the tip of one ear twitches briefly.

Renpaw nods.

Evician glances at a gilt-spined white leather tome dangling a thin-chained symbol of Koar in his hand.

Evician unfastens the buttons on his royal blue coat and opens it, no longer needing the extra protection from the weather outside.

Evician put a gilt-spined white leather tome dangling a thin-chained symbol of Koar in his royal blue coat.

Evician fastens the buttons on his royal blue coat, bracing himself for the outdoor weather.

Kipara recites:

"As the Honorable Judge Renpaw has stated, this trial is about whether or not Malluch has committed the acts stated as Rone. I believe he has readily admitted that"

Kipara recites:

"I believe he is only waiting for this farce to end, one way or the other."

Kipara bows.

Kipara just strode up a narrow stairway.

Statement #6, From Stonmel: The Victims Who Aren't Here

Renpaw says, "Stonm....oh lord."

Renpaw exclaims, "Stonmel!"

You notice Stonmel moving stealthily down a narrow stairway.

Stonmel glances at Renpaw.

Evician grins at Renpaw.

Pukk groans.

Renpaw nods.

Stonmel says, "I've a statement tonight, and it's not for you."

Stonmel nods at Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "Shocker."

Bernadette nods.

Bernadette folds her arms over her chest.

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Stonmel.

Fahlo glances at Stonmel.

Malluch twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Stonmel says, "Though, if the accused wants to reply to what I say, I welcome what he could offer..."

Stonmel says, "Folks seem more concerned with questioning his abilities, choice of targets, or other trivial things of that nature. Those have no bearing on why he is here today. The focus should be on those who aren't here today to tell their story and give testimony, because of him."

Stonmel says, "Malluch earlier mentioned the crimes of his victims, and how they were not put on trial. I think that is important to remember here. He killed people, a bloody lot of people, without any concern for the law, or any semblance of a trial, which he has been afforded. The Rooks in the tunnels, the various townsfolks, the ship he claims was dealing in slaves, or so he relayed though the various folks in power whom seemed more interesting in talking to him than catching him. They all died with only his word that they deserved it. That speaks nothing for the night when he took a hostage months back and indiscriminately set off an explosion that killed dozens and maimed many others."

Stonmel says, "Additionally again though those more interested in talking to this killer than stopping him, he led our incompetent militia captains to a place where he more than likely was behind staging a fake crime scene in order to frame the former mayor. This does not speak to someone with integrity or someone with a sense of justice. This is just a killer who had an axe to grind, and wanted to see this town suffer. While I don't disagree with some of his conclusions on this town, his judgement and methods leave much to be desired."

Stonmel says, "Others may talk about motivation, and I say, who cares? I've not done the math here, but this thug may well have killed well over 50 folks at the low end. They got no trial, no consideration of their motives or feelings, just this animal cutting them down. To not find him guilty would prove the ultimate farce of justice, as for his sentencing, any leniency shown is a direct insult to his victims and their families. Just because one fool adventurer who has favor with the gods doesn't mind being stuck by his knife, doesn't mean anything to those not so fortunate, and who are not here to tell their story."

Speaking to Malluch, Stonmel says, "I may not like how things are done here in this corrupt town, but you don't see me putting arrows in the eye of everyone who I think deserves punishment. Just because the system is broken doesn't mean open season to kill whomever you deem deserving of it. Though I hold no great hope for this town given the level of corruption, which you did put on display by those more interested in talking to you than stopping you, it doesn't justify the death you caused."

Stonmel says, "I'm sure those more corrupt now will come and continue this game, but the facts stand. Malluch killed many people whom had no chance to defend himself as he now does. Leniency against this killer is injustice to those victims. If you want to do any last good with your life, spend what is left revealing any evidence against those in power, so that maybe one day, they can be held to account as you now are."

Malluch twists his head slightly, cracking his neck. He looks relieved.

Stonmel glances at Malluch.

Malluch says, "You drew your bow and nocked your arrow, and your weakness prevented you from justice. I suffered no weakness in bringing those to justice."

Stonmel grunts, amused.

Malluch asks, "Do you despise me, for what I have done? Or what you could not do yourself?"

Malluch peers quizzically at Stonmel.

Stonmel says, "I don't care for your methods, and am not fond of ya, I see how that has no bearing though."

Evician stares at Malluch.

Stonmel says, "Don't... rather."

Stonmel mutters under his breath.

Malluch asks, "Does evil deserve a day in a court of justice?"

Malluch asks, "Shall we parade every skeleton and necromancer through these halls?"

Stonmel says, "I couldn't stop you because of another who stepped in to save you, allowing you to go on and kill more."

Bernadette glances at Malluch.

Malluch says, "I regret the lives of innocents who were lost or harmed."

Malluch says, "I deserve to suffer for their harm."

Stonmel grunts.

Stonmel says, "For those deciding his fate, I just ask you to remember the victims who aren't here."

Malluch says, "I hope our sacrifices will be enough for true change."

Stonmel nods.

Stonmel glances at Renpaw.

Stonmel says, "That's all for now."

You notice Stonmel moving stealthily up a narrow stairway.

Evician draws a hand across his emerald gloves, a single tentacle follows it.

Question #5, From Mayor Lylia: Purported Bargain

Renpaw exclaims, "Mayor Lylia!"

Mayor Lylia just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Evician glances at Malluch.

Lylia turns to face Renpaw.

Renpaw bows to Lylia.

Speaking to Renpaw, Lylia says, "Might I ask a few questions? I realize it is unorthodox, and I would not wish to be prejudicial to the jury. By your leave."

Renpaw says, "Please keep it short, there are others waiting."

Lylia nods.

Lylia says, "Of course."

Lylia turns to face Malluch.

Speaking to Malluch, Lylia says, "You have asserted that I struck a bargain with you to save the life of a man for whom you appointed yourself both judge and executioner."

Lylia asks, "Can you explain for the court the full nature of this purported bargain?"

Pukk inclines his ear, listening intently.

Lylia stares pointedly at Malluch waiting for an answer.

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Malluch.

Drektor runs a hand through his short raven black hair, trying to make himself presentable.

Lylia clarifies, "Were you concerned about the moral ramifications of slaying a campaign manager before an election, for example?"

Lylia continues, "And can you explain further why you were able to overlook 'corruption' in this instance and bend your ethics enough to spare this...dangerous source of sin?"

(Lylia points to the balcony somewhere near Xorus.)

Malluch says, "Yes. You offered to aid me in removing or altering the blood sample Cruxophim had collected in exchange for me not targeting Xorus. At the time, it fit both of our needs I suppose."

Lylia chuckles.

Lylia says, "I remember it quite differently."

Pukk raises an eyebrow.

Malluch says, "I'm sure you do. I'd expect the same answer of all Faendryl on many topics, including the Ashrim."

Lylia asks, "Ah, I see. Is this what you define as 'corruption,' then?"

Lylia raises an eyebrow in Malluch's direction.

Alasatia casually glances at Malluch.

Lylia turns her head toward Malluch to favor him with a silent, withering gaze.

Malluch says, "I am not here to judge the world and all of time."

Pukk ponders.

Lylia demands, "What other ethical twists have you countenanced? Framing the former mayor with a poorly staged scene? Poisoning him, possibly mortally? Dropping a prism and killing a crowd? Slaughtering others for the joy of it and building a monument of flesh on the sands?"

Alasatia whispers something to Drektor.

Lylia incredulously says, "All of this, and you have yet to explain others' crimes while your own are manifest."

Lylia shakes her head.

Speaking to Renpaw, Lylia says, "No further questions."

Lylia turns around.

Mayor Lylia just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Malluch asks, "If they flee before I answer, do I keep going?"

Malluch peers quizzically at Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "I suppose so, if you'd like."

Pukk nods.

Balley nods at Malluch.

Fahlo nods.

Bernadette nods.

Malluch says, "Yes, I allowed Xorus to escape my brand of justice for the time being in order to aid me in prolonging my own capture and meting out more justice, especially to Cruxophim."

Malluch says, "It did not make him any less guilty than the others. But for the time, it was a strategic decision to allow a greater chance at my goal."

Malluch says, "I took no joy in anything I did."

(Bernadette jots notes down to herself.)

(Evician has a slight coughing fit and keeps his hand over his mouth for the duration.)

Question #6, From Maylan: Secret Evil Plans

Renpaw exclaims, "Maylan!"

Maylan tries to walk towards a narrow stairway, but instead falls to the ground!

Renpaw bangs the pegleg on the table.

Maylan yells, "Coming...."

Maylan leans forward and tries to rise to a standing position, only to fail and fall flat on her back.

Maylan just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Maylan topples over.

Maylan drunkenly says, "Ugh."

Renpaw glances at Maylan.

Balley sighs.

Maylan says, "Here is good. I'll ask the question from here."

Pukk mutters drinking.

Maylan blinks oddly a few times.

Renpaw chuckles.

Maylan drunkenly says, "I heard you say earlier."

Maylan says, "That Rone was... 'not done.'"

Maylan drunkenly asks, "What do you mean by that, fella? What is Rone scheming next? What's going to happen?"

Maylan thumps her candlestick pegleg on the floor in three rapid successions.

(Evician rubs his face for a moment scratching an itch as blood is left in the wake of his irritation and he goes back to covering his mouth staring ahead at Malluch and listening to the witnesses.)

Maylan says, "Divulge your secret evil plans, please."

Alasatia gazes with a bemused expression at Maylan.

Malluch says, "Rone is a movement, an awakening, a rising tide of light that will fight back, in ways that are perhaps not always agreeable, but no war is."

Evician smirks at Maylan.

Malluch says, "Time will tell if what we have done here, is a small flame that will ignite and spread, or fizzle and snuffed out by further darkness."

Malluch says, "I cannot say which will occur anymore than you."

Malluch says, "We shall see what the winds bring."

Maylan says, "Terribly vague."

Balley's concentration shifts and becomes more focused as she slightly tilts an ear in a particular direction.

Maylan exclaims, "I object!"

Maylan thumps her candlestick pegleg on the floor in three rapid successions.

Maylan stands up.

Maylan grins idiotically.

Irar yells, "We get objections?"

Maylan shrugs at a narrow stairway. Odd.

Malluch says, "It does not matter what happens to me tonight."

Maylan rolls her eyes.

Malluch says, "If you let me walk, rot, or die."

Balley shivers.

Speaking sarcastically to Malluch, Maylan says, "How valiant."

Malluch says, "What's happened has happened, and we shall see if it has been enough."

Question #7, From Berkana: Removing Crux's Magic

Renpaw bangs the pegleg against Maylan's other pegleg.

Renpaw exclaims, "Berkana!"

Maylan blinks oddly a few times.

Maylan just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Matriarch Berkana just climbed down a narrow stairway.

Berkana says, "Good evening Judge Renpaw, good jurors..."

Berkana glances at Malluch.

Berkana says, "And the accused."

Berkana turns to face Malluch.

Alasatia smiles at Berkana.

Renpaw bows.

Malluch nods.

Berkana asks, "So... just to impress girls at first, hmm?"

Berkana cocks her head at Malluch.

Berkana says, "Not my question..."

Berkana waves her hand in a dismissive gesture.

Berkana says, "Would seem that to impress girls is still a reason, given your obsession with..."

Evician turns an inquisitive ear toward Berkana.

Berkana turns to face Malluch.

Berkana asks, "Lana?"

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Berkana.

Malluch says, "You will need to frame your question more please."

(Berkana walks halfway across the chamber and turns back, giving her hair a bit of a swinging out.)

Berkana says, "I'm getting to it."

Malluch says, "Oh, dramatics. Never mind. Continue."

Berkana smiles at Malluch.

Berkana chuckles to herself.

(Berkana walks back towards Malluch and leans forward.)

Renpaw glances at Berkana.

Berkana asks, "Now, given this position you're in, it really wouldn't matter if you told the truth or more lies, would it?"

Renpaw taps his pegeg impatiently.

Malluch asks, "Is that your question?"

Berkana says, "I mean, lying just makes you more a martyr. Truth though..."

Berkana says, "Might get you more sympathy with the jurors."

Berkana asks, "My question is this... what did you do to remove Crux's magical ability?"

Berkana peers quizzically at Malluch.

Berkana raises an eyebrow in Malluch's direction.

Speaking to Renpaw, Berkana asks, "Could you please direct him to give an answer?"

Malluch says, "I subued him, used a trapped box to take him and myself to a temporal rift and injected him with a substance that blocks his ability to touch the streams of mana around him so that the wards he has in place to keep himself together will not be kept powered and he will unravel and reveal himself fully."

Pukk chuckles.

Berkana turns to face Malluch.

Malluch says, "If you refuse to see him for what he is, and he refuses to show it himself..."

Malluch says, "Well, now neither of those will keep happening."

Berkana says, "I've known him from what he was before, what he became, and what he is now."

Berkana asks, "What substance did you use? Some have guessed, but would you be willing to be plain about it?"

Malluch says, "You are misguided."

Berkana begins chuckling at Malluch!

Berkana says, "I disagree, but continue."

Malluch says, "What he became and what he is now are not as different as he would make you think."

Berkana nods at Malluch.

Berkana asks, "I did not say it was different, did I?"

Malluch says, "I am unable to divulge the substance used as it was provided to me with few details."

Malluch says, "No, I suppose you did not."

Malluch says, "Then the only difference is your tolerance for such."

Berkana asks, "Do you have samples for examination?"

Malluch says, "And that is my point."

Malluch says, "No I do not, nor would I be forthcoming with them if I did, truth be told."

Berkana says, "I have tolerance for a great many things, given what I have seen over my years."

Malluch says, "I have no further answers for you."

Berkana nods at Malluch.

Question #8 and Statement #7, From Leafiara: Militia Alternative and the Unpunishable

Renpaw bangs the pegleg.

Renpaw says, "One final person..."

Renpaw exclaims, "Leafiara!"

Matriarch Berkana just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Maiden Leafiara just climbed down a narrow stairway.

[Moot Hall, Chamber of Justice]

Two high-backed, elaborately carved chairs face the imposing, burnished oak bench where members of the official Town Council convene to decide matters of solemn importance. A narrow stairway leads up to a low balcony that surrounds the chamber, providing ample seating for interested visitors to observe the proceedings. You also see a blue ora buffet cart with some stuff on it, a modwir arch and an oak door.

Also here: Lady Alasatia, Fahlo who is sitting, Maiden Balley who is sitting, Drektor who is sitting, Lord Evician who is sitting, Mister Pukk who is sitting, Bernadette, Judge Renpaw, Malluch

You smile.

You nod in greeting.

Fahlo nods to you.

You simply greet, "Good evening, everyone."

Speaking to Renpaw, you request, "If this is alright, I'd like to ask a brief question first and then make a brief statement depending on the answer."

Bernadette nods to you.

Balley nods to you.

You turn to face Malluch.

Speaking to Malluch, you muse, "For the sake of the argument, let's say you were to walk free or get a fairly short prison sentence..."

You frankly say, "I think it unlikely, but it's a hypothetical."

Speaking curiously to Malluch, you ask, "After you were out, would you be open to putting your skills to use in a legal way? Perhaps joining the militia, for example, and fighting openly in the light instead of as a vigilante?"

Renpaw nods to you.

Fahlo glances at Malluch.

Bernadette turns an inquisitive ear toward Malluch.

You fold your hands.

Malluch says, "Yes."

You give your eyebrow a little workout.

Pukk nods slowly.

You note, "Interesting."

Malluch says, "Contrary to my remarks earlier, I believe the recent election is a step in the right direction, and though Stonmel has no respect for the militia captains, clearly, I do."

You nod at Malluch.

Malluch says, "But I do not think that will ever happen."

Malluch says, "If set free, I'd likely be killed in time."

(Evician attempts to wipe his face clean with the cloth from his jacket, then has another coughing fit as blood drops from his nose and mouth down into his hand as he stares at Malluch.)

From up on a narrow stairway, you hear Madmountan yell, "Yes, you would."

You admit, "Very likely. The Rooks would probably all like to end you."

You nod at Malluch.

Malluch says, "And my presence here would not bode well for my father."

You casually say, "And Madmountan."

You chuckle.

You add, "Again."

Malluch says, "So if set free, I would have no choice but to leave."

Malluch says, "I am less concerned of the Rooks and the dying Rysus, than I am the DeArchons and Cruxophim."

You furrow your brow, probably adding a wrinkle or two in the process.

Malluch says, "Their roots, aptly put, stretch far."

You say, "Both the DeArchons? I could have sworn I remembered you saying that you hoped Alendrial would win the council seat if you did not..." (note: [[::Rise_of_Rone_-_Town_Council_Candidate_Debates_5118,_Night_1#Question_14:_Puptilian_to_all:_The_Best_Other_Candidate|see here]])

You thoughtfully tap a finger against your lips.

Renpaw asks, "Your statement?"

Malluch asks, "I lied?"

Malluch smirks.

You give your eyebrow a little workout.

You say, "Maybe not the best thing to admit here, but--very well."

You grin at Malluch.

You say, "As for my statement..."

Evician coughs.

You mention, "I'd just like to note that a number of the accused's murders took place outside the gates, where our jurisdiction doesn't hold, and I hope our jurors will take that into consideration."

Balley smiles at you.

You say, "That still leaves, probably, some... 40 or so murders."

Bernadette nods to you.

Speaking to Malluch, you say, "Regrettable... all that you did."

You frown.

You say, "But not all punishable--only most."

You nod.

You sink into a deep curtsy.

Cruxophim just limped painfully through a modwir arch.

Cruxophim just limped painfully up a narrow stairway.

>go stair

Malluch's Closing Statement

Fahlo gazes heavenward.

Malluch begins to twitch. [note: as best any of us could tell, this was simply due to Crux walking by]

Fahlo reaches out and touches something in a grey hooded cloak.

Renpaw nods.

Renpaw says, "Jurors, please rise."

Balley stands up.

Fahlo stands up.

Evician stands up.

Pukk stands up.

Pukk glances at Drektor.

Alasatia pulls Drektor to his feet.

Alasatia dusts Drektor off.

Pukk nods.

Drektor carefully looks himself over.

Bernadette nods.

Alasatia winks at Drektor.

Renpaw says, "We shall move away for a moment for a brief discussion. Those above, please stay put for a moment."

Pukk nods.

Balley nods.

Malluch asks, "Do I get a final statement?"

Renpaw says, "Guards, you ...."

Renpaw says, "Well, yes I suppose."

Alasatia joins Renpaw's group.

Renpaw says, "Make it brief."

(Evician nonchalantantly wipes his hands off on his jacket attending to himself as his hands and face and the front of his jacket are covered in blood.)

Malluch says, "I regret the lives lost from my prism, and reacted poorly when cornered. I regret the innocent life taken to try to claim some bounty. I am not oblivious to the irony that justice should also come for me. My only hope, regardless of my fate, is something has changed...and if the winds fan the spark enough, it will burn bright."

Malluch nods.

Renpaw nods to the guards who then escort Malluch off.

Jury Deliberation

Renpaw says, "Please give us a few moments and I will let those above know if we will have a decision tonight, or tomorrow."

Judge Renpaw's group just went through an oak door.

[some minutes later...]

Judge Renpaw's group just came through an oak door.

Pukk nods.

Judge Renpaw's group just climbed up a narrow stairway.

Renpaw clears his throat.

Renpaw says, "Thank you everyone, I know the hour is late."

Bernadette nods at Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "Please settle for a moment."

Bernadette folds her hands behind her back.

(Evician listens while he holds a bloodstained cloth to his nose.)

Drektor takes a bite of his cheese sandwich.

Renpaw says, "On the count of vigilantism, Malluch is found guilty by 5 votes, and guilty of murder by 6 votes."

Renpaw says, "We will dismiss for the night, and the jurors will reconvene with me tomorrow to discuss sentencing."

Balley sighs.

Renpaw says, "It is late, and we wish proper time to decide one's fate."

Balley snuggles Zosopage, who responds by cradling an arm around her.

Balley nods.

Evician nods at Renpaw.

Pukk nods.

Renpaw says, "Thank you all for your time and patience this night."

Renpaw bows.

Bernadette nods at Renpaw.

Fahlo bows to Renpaw.

Bernadette bows to Renpaw.

Renpaw slips off to his chambers.

Maylan says, "The gavel helped."

(Evician speaks hoarsely, "Good night your honor.")

Evician coughs.

Renpaw runs back in.

Renpaw offers Maylan a discolored mop-fringed pegleg.

Maylan accepts Renpaw's mop-fringed pegleg.

Renpaw winks.

Alasatia squints at Drektor.

Renpaw slips off.

Maylan raises her mop-fringed pegleg skyward!

Maylan says, "Pegleg of JUSTICE."

The Next Night: Jury Bribery

BOOM! Thunder echoes late in the night.

A town crier shouts, "Judge Renpaw will be gathering outside of Moot Hall. If the jurors for the Trial of Rone would also gather, so they may briefly discuss sentencing before the announcement."

[Town Square, East]

Here in the center of a broad plaza near the commercial area of the bazaar stands the impressive facade of the slate-roofed Moot Hall, where the citizens of Wehnimer's Landing hold various official, religious and social functions. Facing the square are some of the town's more prosperous shops, still doing business with the many customers who still frequent the streets at night. You also see a droopy-eyed tan bloodhound, a mushy black door and a large purple wooden barrel.

Judge Renpaw just arrived.

Renpaw says, "Hello everyone."

Renpaw says, "I am sorry for the late hour."

Renpaw says, "I had urgent business to tend to, but thank you for your patience."

Pukk gently takes hold of Renpaw's hand.

Renpaw says, "Would the jurors please..."

Renpaw nods at Pukk. [the jurors had already formed on Pukk]

Pukk whistles at Renpaw!

Drektor takes a bite of his ice cream sandwich.

Renpaw says, "I shall return momentarily with the jurors, to announce the sentencing of Rone."

Bernadette nods.

Renpaw says, "I mean, Malluch."

Renpaw nods.

Judge Renpaw's group just entered the Moot Hall.

Judge Renpaw's group just arrived.

Renpaw glances at Alasatia.

Renpaw says, "Come now."

Renpaw nods at Alasatia.

Renpaw glances at Stormyrain.

Stormyrain inclines her head.

Pukk quietly says, "I can try to drag her."

Drektor takes a bite of his ice cream sandwich.

Alasatia joins Renpaw's group.

Pukk quietly says, "No need."

Alasatia inclines her head.

Pukk grins at Alasatia.

Renpaw whispers something to Lylia.

Stormyrain folds her hands behind her back.

Stormyrain surreptitiously glances at Evician.

Renpaw whispers something to Stormyrain.

Drektor takes a bite of his ice cream sandwich.

Stormyrain nods faintly.

Lylia whispers something to Renpaw.

Drektor places his arms akimbo and looks about as if waiting for something.

Renpaw nods.

Renpaw says, "I see..."

Renpaw whispers something to Stormyrain.

Renpaw whispers something to Stormyrain.

Stormyrain walks toward Evician.

Stormyrain taps Evician lightly on his shoulder.

Evician nods at Stormyrain.

Evician hoarsely asks, "Yes ma'am?"

Stormyrain whispers something to Evician.

Stormyrain settles her gaze on Evician, watching him intently.

Drektor shifts his weight.

Pukk gives Renpaw a little prod between the shoulder blades.

Stormyrain whispers something to Evician.

Renpaw squints.

Renpaw glances at Deckits.

Speaking quietly to Renpaw, Pukk asks, "Do we need to get you some warm milk too?"

(Deckits turns around and looks behind him.)

Stormyrain glances with dismay at Evician.

Renpaw says, "No."

Deckits shifts his eyes to Renpaw.

Stormyrain nods faintly at Renpaw.

Pukk grins.

Deckits shrugs at Renpaw.

Speaking to Renpaw, Stormyrain murmurs, "Confirmed, Sir."

Stormyrain nods faintly at Evician.

Renpaw whispers something to Stormyrain.

Fahlo shifts his weight.

Evician nods at Stormyrain.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Evician looks over at Stormyrain and shakes his head.

Deckits ponders.

Stormyrain frowns.

Deckits whispers something to Rhayveign.

Deckits spins around smartly, sending the folds of black silk cape billowing around him in a wide arc.

Deckits just went west.

Drektor folds his arms over his chest with a lazy yawn.

A nearby goodwife screams, "Impropriety!"

Stormyrain looks over at Evician and shakes her head.

Someone screams, "High crimes against the state by Deckits! Call the night watchman!"

Evician nods at Stormyrain.

Alasatia narrows her eyes.

Pukk chuckles to himself.

Renpaw says, "Deckits, you are hereby charged with impropriety, high crimes and contempt for bribing a member of the Rone jury."

Pukk whistles tunelessly to himself.

Alasatia slowly empties her lungs.

Bernadette rubs her chin thoughtfully.

Maags offers Alasatia a freshly baked sugar twist donut.

Alasatia accepts Maags's sugar twist donut.

Alasatia kisses Maags tenderly on the cheek.

Stormyrain folds her hands behind her back.

Alasatia takes a bite of her sugar twist donut.

The sugar twist donut emits a cloud of sugar, which settles on Alasatia's face and clothes.

Alasatia carefully looks herself over.

Alasatia sighs at Maags.

Stormyrain twists her head slightly, cracking her neck. She looks relieved.

Pukk whispers something to Renpaw.

Renpaw glances at Evician.

Evia says, "Jury tampering is serious."

Pukk adopts an agreeable expression.

Stormyrain nods at Evician.

Drektor takes a bite of his cheese sandwich.

Fahlo takes a drink from his Elanthian coffee.

Evician removes a belt pouch from in his leather longcoat.

Evician offers Renpaw a belt pouch.

Pukk whistles at Evician!

Bernadette folds her hands behind her back.

Renpaw says, "Evician, because you informed about the bribery, I will not charge you with any crime, but you will be removed from the sentencing."

Renpaw accepts Evician's belt pouch.

Evician nods at Renpaw.

Evician hoarsely says, "Aye sir."

Drektor takes a bite of his cheese sandwich.

Alasatia casually glances at Evician.

Fahlo raises an eyebrow.

Renpaw says, "Your vote against the accused is stricken from the record, but, did not change the majority."

Alasatia leans softly against Melivn.

Pukk wonderingly says, "I wonder who Deckits is working with...which group."

Renpaw says, "If I find out further tampering has occured, justice will be swift and merciless."

Drektor takes a bite of his cheese sandwich.

Stormyrain casually observes her surroundings.

Renpaw put a belt pouch in his grey leather satchel.

Judge Renpaw's group just entered the Moot Hall.

Evia asks, "Was the entire jury queried for any other incidents?"

Stormyrain says, "I'm sure the Judge has done his due diligence."

[as the jury decides, the rest wait outside...]

Deckits just arrived.

Deckits stretches.

The night watchman rushes in, followed closely by his posse!

With great ease, the night watchman grabs Deckits and shackles his wrists.

"Aha, Varlet! I have you!" the night watchman cries out.

The night watchman then drags him off.

Malluch's Sentence

Judge Renpaw's group just arrived.

Renpaw clears his throat.

Bernadette folds her hands behind her back.

Renpaw says, "We have reached a sentencing verdict."

Alasatia folds her arms over her chest.

Pukk quietly says, "He will be remanded to Helga's custody."

Pukk appears to be trying hard not to grin.

Renpaw says, "Since Evician was forthcoming in Deckits bribe, he will not be charged, but his vote removed. Since that did not change the guilty verdict, sentencing continues."

Alasatia frowns.

Speaking to Renpaw, Stormyrain asks, "And you are going to announce it without Malluch here? Does he not deserve to hear his fate?"

Stormyrain furrows her brow.

Alasatia whispers something to Melivn.

Pukk whispers something to Fahlo.

Renpaw says, "First, I, and Wehnimer's Landing, would like to thank the jurors for their time and wisdom in these proceedings."

Alasatia whispers something to Melivn.

Bernadette nods at Renpaw.

Pukk inclines his head.

Deckits just arrived.

Deckits stretches.

Fahlo sighs at Chamorr.

Speaking to Chamorr, Fahlo says, "Sorry."

Renpaw says, "Malluch will be read his sentencing, he will not be present tonight due to increased risks at this time."

Pukk adopts an agreeable expression.

Renpaw says, "The votes have been cast by the jurors..."

Fahlo put a simple pottery mug in his heavy backpack.

Renpaw says, "And with an unanimous vote..."

Pukk quietly says, "Dramatic pause.."

Renpaw says, "Malluch will be sentenced to three decades of imprisonment, at which time his crime and punishment will be reviewed. If he is found to be cooperative with the town leaders, militia captains and guards, his sentence can be reduced."

Crowd Response

Lylia briskly says, "Well. There it is, then."

Katiesa nods.

Pukk nods.

Chaoswynd gives a short little hum of surprise.

Claudaro lets loose with a loud jeer. Boooooo!

Maylan shrugs her shoulders, lifting her wings slightly.

Berkana nods.

Thrassus scoffs.

Elbromo nods.

Maags nods approvingly.

Melikor scowls.

Trisu applauds.

Eiliriel nods slowly.

Kipara lets out a cheer!

Evia nods.

Deckits lets loose with a loud jeer. Boooooo!

Irar ponders.

Beldannon softly says, "No death penalty, that's kind of crappy."

Stormyrain winces.

Lornieh nods in agreement.

Pinchot agrees with Beldannon.

Maags frowns at Beldannon.

Tercolla ponders.

Berkana says, "Death means so little."

Bristenn cocks his head.

Berkana waves her hand in a dismissive gesture.

Ushakaron yells, "He deserves death!"

Lafali says, "No Martydom either."

Trisu says, "Can be worse in some cases."

Kipara says, "Three decades is a long time for a human, I approve."

Chamorr heartily says, "Thirty years."

Irar asks, "Murders at least 50 people and doesn't receive life imprisonment?"

Dirra folds her hands behind her back.

Thrassus says, "Well then, so the cycle continues."

Maags agrees with Berkana.

Elbromo says, "Smarter than I thought."

Ysharra says, "They don't want to martyr him further."

Irar frowns.

Deckits chortles softly at some secret joke.

Stormyrain nods faintly at Shinann.

Speaking to Ysharra, Maylan says, "I spose that makes sense."

Tercolla says, "Worse to suffer for possible life, than to have the freedom of death."

Gorku deeply says, "Meh."

Goldstr says, "3 decades should make him tinks a bit."

Maags exclaims, "30 years is a long time!"

Eiliriel evenly says, "Three decades may very well be life imprisonment."

Goldstr adopts an agreeable expression.

Irar shrugs.

Ysharra says, "He's human. Three decades is a third of his life."

Xorus asks, "This is a possibility of parole at thirty years, or he is released after thirty barring a sentence reduction?"

Irar says, "I won't gainsay the jury. They've made their decision."

Claudaro asks, "A third of his life for the dozens he cut down?"

Maags says, "And alreadies he is old."

Claudaro says, "Cheap price."

Renpaw says, "There is no guarantee of release after thirty years."

Xorus nods.

Chamorr heartily says, "Wait."

Gorku deeply says, "3 decades plus the potential for more."

Tercolla grins at Renpaw.

Renpaw says, "Only a review of his crime, punishment, and behavior."

Tercolla whistles tunelessly to himself.

Speaking to Claudaro, Ysharra says, "I don't think he'll find a life to come back to, afterward."

Thrassus says, "That's plenty of time for his followers to break him out."

Tercolla says, "Which will tack on another 30 years."

Tercolla nods in agreement.

Xorus says, "Life imprisonment with a possible reduction after three decades."

Goldstr turns toward Renpaw and renders a sharp hand salute.

Kipara says, "I believe the sentence is just."

Kipara nods.

Stormyrain nods in agreement at Shinann.

Chamorr heartily says, "Three decades is 22 years."

Thrassus leans on his staff.

Renpaw says, "In addition, he will be under special care and guard with the town prison, and access controlled and limited, but also extended to Militia Captains."

Speaking to Xorus, Lafali says, "Or perhaps an execution."

Elbromo begins chuckling at Chamorr!

Eiliriel glances skeptically at Chamorr.

Maags ponders.

Lycurgus softly asks, "For questioning?"

Ysharra nods slowly at Melikor.

Speaking to Ysharra, Claudaro says, "No, but rather than giving the families of those killed closure, this just means a lifetime of pain and dread looking forward to the day he might one day be allowed to go free."

Lycurgus squeaks oddly.

Claudaro shrugs.

Speaking to Renpaw, Berkana asks, "Solitary?"

Irar nods at Renpaw.

Gorku deeply says, "Unless he's in solitary, he could get killed in prison."

Speaking heartily to Elbromo, Chamorr says, "5118."

Hoodtralfeck says, "If Rone had a single brain cell he would have attacked the empire or elf lands."

Shinann folds her hands behind her back.

Tambryle nods.

Maags says, "Usuallies special care is not particularlies good for the prisoner."

Speaking to Claudaro, Ysharra says, "I'm not sure I agree with it, either, I just understand why they chose it."

Maags says, "It could be a short three decades."

Felita says, "Feed him bread and water."

Speaking heartily to Elbromo, Chamorr says, "In twenty two years wil be the third decade."

Rhayveign nods in agreement at Thrassus.

Lylia says, "'Special care' to include additional guards. There are, no doubt, more white cloaks hidden in people's wardrobes."

Speaking to Claudaro, Ysharra says, "I'm not sure, honestly. I think if it were me I would find the prospect of possible life imprisonment more horrible than death."

Lylia sets her mouth in a thin line of disapproval.

Felita folds her arms over her chest.

Berkana takes a slow, deep breath then pinches the bridge of her nose.

Maags bites her lip.

Alasatia whispers something to Ysharra.

Lafali agrees with Ysharra.

Xorus indifferently remarks, "Grishom was held in the tower once."

Berkana says, "Three decades is thirty years at the end of it."

Speaking to Hoodtralfeck, Goldstr says, "He did his crimes gainst da Landin cyz a Lana."

Ysharra rests a gentle hand on Alasatia's arm.

Gorku nods in agreement at Lylia.

Eiliriel mildly says, "At any rate, our opinions do not change the sentencing verdict."

Deckits suddenly flinches.

Gorku deeply says, "Wisely said."

Thrassus nods at Rhayveign.

Elbromo nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Ysharra, Claudaro says, "Until the day he escapes or is set free, then you may change your tune. Death at least is closure."

Maags says, "The tower is a good prison."

Gorku nods at Lylia.

Speaking to Eiliriel, Lylia says, "No. They do not."

Evia says, "And, this will increase the possibility, even if remotely that the source of the mysterious injected substance may come to light."

Florania nods at Evia.

Speaking to Claudaro, Ysharra says, "I'm not one of the ones who made the decision. I'm just seeing their point of view."

Dirra folds her hands behind her back.

Pukk quietly says, "To all you long lived, 30 years is nothing. To us short lived, this is a long time."

Melikor folds his arms over his chest.

Speaking heartily to Maags, Chamorr says, "Not the abbys tower again."

Claudaro shrugs.

Stormyrain smiles at Fahlo.

Renpaw says, "Thank you again to everyone."

Pukk nods at Renpaw.

Trisu nods.

Maags looks over at Chamorr and shakes her head.

Ysharra curtsies to Renpaw.

Bernadette bows to Renpaw.

Evia bows to Renpaw.

Questions For Renpaw, and the Hanging of Deckits

Renpaw asks, "Are there any questions before I retire to my chambers?"

Evia says, "Yes."

Maags asks, "Is that where yous live?"

Renpaw turns an inquisitive ear toward Evia.

Speaking to Renpaw, Evia asks, "What is to be done about Deckits?"

Renpaw grins at Maags.

Speaking heartily to Renpaw, Chamorr asks, "Thirty years or three decades?"

Speaking to Renpaw, Kipara asks, "Yes sir, does your peg leg ever itch?"

Renpaw says, "It is the same."

Renpaw nods at Chamorr.

Deckits blinks at Evia.

Speaking to Renpaw, Kipara asks, "Does it always feel like you have a splinter?"

Renpaw says, "That was Maylan's pegleg."

Kipara says, "My mistake, sir."

Speaking to Evia, Deckits says, "I have paid my hefty fine."

Evia nods at Deckits.

Berkana asks, "What does Deckits get for his attempt at bribery?"

Suddenly, a large group of cudgel-waving townsmen come barreling in. They wrestle Deckits to the ground and drag him off, chanting something about a hanging!

Renpaw says, "The bribery of justice will not be tolerated."

Renpaw says, "Let it be a lesson."

Renpaw says, "Goodnight."

Judge Renpaw just entered the Moot Hall.