If by permanent block, you mean they're blocked til the end of the game, no. Just for the one night. Unless they have the misfortune of being killed the same night. Death is rather permanent. . .
I'd go with simple mafia, no vanillas. I think it kind of sucks to get stuck with a vanilla role. Maybe others see it differently. *shrug* As for new players, won't know until signups.
How did Mr. Kaufman handle the lawsuit? You said he was an old family friend. Did his relationship with your husband change after the lawsuit?
Who knew about your husbands dreams (armor stabbing him in heart)? Did anyone else know about the fake duels you mentioned?
Questions about the trophy room. Sorry if you already answered some. Who has been in the trophy room/would have known about the armor? Is it locked?