Jember is summoned
The Trial of Jember
The Trial of Jember was a pivotal moment in the adventuring party’s time in Skullport, as Jember found himself at the center of a tribunal for violating a longstanding, secretive treaty between the Glad Bracken and the Zhentarim. This trial would determine not only Jember’s fate but also the fate of his allies, as the shadowy power structure of Skullport moved to enforce its unwritten laws.
Prelude to the Trial
Upon arriving in Skullport, Jember made his way to a hidden location where he met with members of his clandestine organization, the Glad Bracken. There, he conferred with Tarmen Wrenslayer, an older tiefling who had attained the rank of Seventh Degree Weed—a title of prestige within the organization.
Jember informed Tarmen of the recent events in Waterdeep, detailing how he and his companions had interfered in Zhentarim operations. Tarmen, however, was far from pleased. He revealed that a secret non-aggression treaty existed between the Zhentarim and the Glad Bracken, ensuring that neither faction would interfere in the other’s dealings. By his actions, Jember had broken this treaty, endangering the Glad Bracken’s neutrality and, by extension, their safety. Jember protested, stating that he was unaware of such a pact, but Tarmen dismissed his ignorance as no excuse, declaring that a trial would be held to determine the punishment for him and his accomplices.
The Party’s Movements
While Jember faced his impending tribunal, his allies were unaware of the dire circumstances.
- Olaf, Fjord, and Zeromus had finished their night at the Blind Fish Tavern and retired to Guts & Garters for the evening. Before resting, Olaf used a Sending spell to reach out to Jember, sharing their location and awaiting further instructions.
- Gregory, recovering from wounds suffered in a previous altercation with the Zhentarim, remained above ground in Waterdeep. As he rested, his sprite familiar, Primrose, had a lengthy discussion with Titania, Gregory’s patron. Following this, Primrose reminded Gregory of his mission, urging him to make haste for Skullport and find the rest of the party at The Dredge.
The Gathering at Mandible Headquarters
The next morning, a Glad Bracken agent met with Olaf, Fjord, and Zeromus, instructing them to meet Jember at a location called “Mandible Headquarters”. This hideout was an impressive structure, fashioned from a massive, ancient carved skull whose glowing blue eyes radiated an eerie, mystical light. Upon closer inspection, the adventurers realized that this skull was, in fact, a Netherese ruin, its glowing eyes continually spawning flaming skulls, adding to its formidable and ominous nature.
Shortly after arriving, the party was reunited with both Jember and Gregory, who had managed to make his way to Skullport. Once inside the ruin, they explored the structure, noting the impressive murals adorning the walls. The paintings depicted key moments in Netherese history:
- Mystril gifting magic to the Netherese people.
- The Folly of Karsus, when the archmage attempted to seize divinity and brought about the Netherese empire’s downfall.
- Mystril’s rebirth into Mystra, the new goddess of magic, emphasizing the theme of constant progress.
As they took in the artwork, Jember gathered the group and explained the gravity of their situation. He relayed the charges against them, the potential sentences, and the trial process that lay ahead.
The Defense Strategy
To ensure they had the best possible defense, the party sought the guidance of Quinn Wallfeather, an elderly elf who specialized in Skullport’s legal customs. Quinn outlined the trial’s proceedings and the potential punishments, which ranged from fines and exile to far worse fates. With little room for error, the group deliberated over their next move.
Ultimately, they agreed that Gregory—renowned for his oratory skills and knowledge of fey law—should serve as their defense attorney. As the trial loomed, the party made their final preparations, knowing that Skullport’s brand of justice was rarely merciful and that their survival hinged on the success of their defense.
The Trial of Jember would determine more than just their freedom—it would dictate their place within Skullport’s complex web of alliances and betrayals.
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