#horror – #horrorcomics – #TheBrokenTavern – #BAAL – #BAALPH –
Welcome to Volume 16: The Percussive Skald. This entry follows the journey of Borum, a towering Goliath Skald whose subclass is the Percussive Vanguard. Known for his Neutral Good alignment, Borum is a gentle giant defined by loyalty, kindness, and emotional sincerity.
In this volume, Borum sacrifices himself to protect a fragile young girl from a universe filled with twisted nightmares. His primary weapon is a massive war-drum chained to his chest, allowing him to unleash devastating sonic shockwaves. But the Tavern enacts the Law of Equivalent Sacrifice, permanently amputating his hands and replacing them with iron cylinders — a cruel Rule 10 scar known as “The Tragedy of Touch.”
Unable to hold, comfort, or embrace the child he protects, Borum is left with only his voice and destructive power. The story explores themes of companionship, emotional vulnerability, and the tragedy of losing the ability to connect with others.
The run concludes with a bittersweet heroic stand. His final status reads: THE DRUM IS BROKEN. THE CARGO IS SAFE. He leaves behind his key loot drop, “The Glass Lotus,” a glowing crystal flower symbolizing the beauty he guarded.