Summary of "Mission Through Middrus - Left Holding the JAG" (Ep. 07, C03)

Podcast Information:

• Title: Tales from the Stinky Dragon
• Host/Author: Stinky Dragon
• Episode: C03 - Ep. 07 - Mission Through Middrus - Left Holding the JAG
• Release Date: December 25, 2024
• Description: Tales from the Stinky Dragon is an award-winning actual-play D&D comedy podcast featuring four friends and their patient dungeon master. The podcast offers fully-voiced characters, immersive sound design, a catchy soundtrack, and gripping stories suitable for both seasoned players and newcomers.

Introduction

In Episode 07 of Campaign 03, titled "Mission Through Middrus - Left Holding the JAG," the B Team faces a dire situation as they are accused of multiple crimes during their latest mission. This episode delves deep into courtroom drama, character introspections, and the unraveling of underlying tensions within the team.

The Court Martial Begins

Accusations Laid Bare

The episode kicks off with the B Team being summoned to a stringent courtroom at Fort Andridge. Captain Kmart (K. Martin) presides over the court martial, accusing them of:

• Breaking into the armory without permission
• Stealing relics from chests
• Murdering the magistrate instead of detaining him
• Leaving a team behind instead of regrouping as ordered

[15:23] Captain Kmart: "You are accused of breaking into the armory without permission, stealing relics from chests, murdering the magistrate instead of detaining him, and leaving a team behind instead of regrouping as ordered."

Defense Strategy: "Fortunately, Unfortunately"

Gustavo Sorola, the dungeon master, introduces an improv game called "Fortunately, Unfortunately" to help structure the team's defense. Each member takes turns presenting their side, beginning sentences with "fortunately" or "unfortunately" to weave their narrative.

Doug Boone Leads the Defense

Doug Boone (playing a bugbear artificer) emphasizes their intent to follow orders and protect the team:

[21:36] Doug Boone: "Unfortunately, we did have to pursue him into a room that we weren't aware of what the room was until we got in. So, technically, we entered the armory, but we came from an entrance underground that didn't have a sign or anything."

Presenting Evidence

To substantiate their innocence, the team presents various pieces of evidence:

• Detailed Maps: Tolf provides comprehensive maps illustrating their movements and actions during the mission.

  [49:34] Tolf: "This is where you were?"

• Magical Items: Natty Wonder references the "cone of Copia," a magical artifact intended to aid their defense.

  [56:00] Natty Wonder: "Violet light."

Despite their efforts, the evidence is met with skepticism.

Verdict and Aftermath

After reviewing the testimonies and evidence, Captain Kmart delivers the verdict:

[59:09] Captain Kmart: "Based on the evidence and testimonies, I find you not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. However, you are to remain on base at Fort Andridge for the remainder of the day."

While the team is spared imprisonment, they remain confined, hinting at lingering distrust and future challenges.

Downtime and Character Development

Following the court martial, the episode shifts focus to the characters' downtime, highlighting personal interactions and character growth.

Bonding and Apologies

• Gunther expresses remorse for past actions and shares his military background, revealing deep-seated trust issues.

• Natty Wonder offers emotional support, fostering camaraderie within the team.

  [85:45] Gunther: "I... come from a background where combat and violence was a day-to-day thing. I'm trying to turn over a new leaf."

Crafting and Personal Routines

• Doug Boone delves into his artificer pursuits, working on weapon enhancements.
• Tolf engages in mathematical studies and bonding exercises with teammates.
• Natty Wonder spends time with her son, Gigi, using flashcards to prepare for potential dangers.

Key Interactions

Notable interactions include Gunther apologizing for his strict demeanor and Natty Wonder sharing her upbringing as a drow warlock. These moments provide depth to their characters and highlight the team's evolving dynamics.

Discovery of the Enigmatic Horn

During their discussions, Natty Wonder notices an unusual horn in the lectern:

[56:00] Gustavo Sorola: "You cast fairy fire. And what was your specific goal with this again?"

Despite their efforts to investigate, the horn vanishes, introducing an air of mystery and magical intrigue.

Concluding Events and Cliffhanger

As the team concludes their rest and prepares for the next mission, they remain suspicious of Sergeant Steel Eye and the true motives behind the court martial. The episode ends with the team preparing for their next adventure, leaving listeners eager for more developments.

[57:25] Natty Wonder: "Hey, how you feeling? It's been like a few months now in this army. How you feeling?"

Notable Quotes

1. Captain Kmart ([15:23]):

   "You are accused of breaking into the armory without permission, stealing relics from chests, murdering the magistrate instead of detaining him, and leaving a team behind instead of regrouping as ordered."

2. Doug Boone ([21:36]):

   "Unfortunately, we did have to pursue him into a room that we weren't aware of what the room was until we got in."

3. Gunther ([85:28]):

   "I was trying to turn over a new leaf. Do you think the Undarians are gonna let you go back to your barracks when you get a boo boo?"

4. Natty Wonder ([87:55]):

   "Thank you, Gunther. That's a beautiful thing."

5. Gustavo Sorola ([56:35]):

   "You wake up and you see private parts standing there watching, waiting for you guys to wake up."

Conclusion

"Mission Through Middrus - Left Holding the JAG" masterfully intertwines courtroom drama with character-driven storytelling. The B Team's defense against harsh accusations not only showcases their ingenuity but also unearths underlying tensions and loyalties. As they navigate the aftermath of their court martial, the team's dynamics evolve, setting the stage for future adventures filled with mystery and camaraderie.

Listeners are left contemplating the true motives of Sergeant Steel Eye and the enigmatic horn, eager to uncover the next chapter in the B Team's journey.