Gilded nods to Jess, "While your faith may be misguided, you have conviction and I can respect that." He looks at her a bit longer, sizing her up. while she wants to kill Simon as much as anyone, she is willing to listen to reason.
Robin agrees with Gilded again, and as much as it pains him to do so, he must begrudgingly admit that he may have had him wrong.
he is about to get a bit more robust with Corvus as Drez has now came to see things the same as him, when the door burst open and all kinds of people start crowding in. Gilded immediately grabs his longsword and goes into defense mode, still holding the scroll in one hand, he turns to face the new enemy.
Then Gwen rushes in and starts going back and forth with the guards. Things seem to be stabilizing as Corvus grabs the scroll from his hand and runs it to the guards. "Grrrrrrr' A deep growl can be heard coming from deep inside the dragon, but he makes no suggestion as to who it is aimed at. 'This is not over bird-man' He thinks to himself, but that is not his primary focus at the moment so he lets it drop.
When the guard approaches him and Drez, Gilded automatically steps in front Drez. "We didn't kill your friends, or Simon, because there is no honor in it. I have made a vow to honor Iroas, the only god that will live up to his promises in Radiance, and he would not be pleased if we were to kill without honor, even when it is deserved.
Gilded appeared agitated with before the guards even came into the room, dealing with Covus, the death of Simon, and his feelings toward Robin. He is definitely more so now, as the tense standoff is happening. Believe me when I say that to kill in battle is perfectly acceptable, and while you may win, if you choose to fight us, some of you will find that out." Gilded points his sword directly at the captain, proving that he will not be intimidated, and asks. "Now do you recognize the key that my companion has shown you, or do you want to work this out with steel and blood?"
Drezmir is a little surprised when Gilded steps in front of him, and grows a little concerned when he realizes that Gilded is rather agitated. After the Dragonborn point's his sword at the captain, Drezmir reaches out and gently pushes the blade downwards so that it is no longer pointed at the man, "Alright my friend. It's been a long day, but we have to realize that these people are willing to hear us out. I don't think they are going to try and attack us now, we'd be better off not making threats."
He turns to the Captain, "Personally, I would prefer not to get into another fight. We have your evidence, and your Lord is still alive. None of us here, including Gwen, came here to dethrone Simon and usurp Glanzing Winds. We saw a threat, and wanted to take it down. Simple as that. I for one believe that Simon was as much a victim here as he is responsible...not that I am excusing his actions. They are his to pay for. But someone else put these ideas into his head first. Nevertheless, it seems that it was his choice to follow through with whatever this Awakening is. As far as we know, the Awakening was still incomplete. We have the gods to thank for that."
Robin sheaths his blade and heads over to the desk to the paper before the commander draws his blade his direction.
"Not you Robin! You won't be allowed to provide evidence. We can't trust you to be moving about."
"Fine.. But on his desk is a paper.. Drezmir can you get it for me? Since I apparently can't move."
Corvus had came over to the commander in red. Handing him a scroll, on it was many magical symbols he tilted his head a bit confused.
"These are indeed attached to other spells but.. Simon is a mage. This is meant to set a few other spells off to be sure.. I think? I'm not sure honestly, I would need more to go on than just this."
One of the surviving Duelist looks to Kocino.
"The commander can disable the manor's security as we travel. As for Rituals I.. I don't know.. Wait monsters? We only use guards have you seen monsters?"
The commander looks to Gilded though he seems strong in his arm, he couldn't disguise his wounds. None of them really could it was clear they were singed and burned or covered in frost.
"Steel and blood lad? Half of you are barely standing! I suppose you must be brave to have fought Simon surely but... That seems like a foolish claim to make son. I'll hear you out of course but if anything is amiss we will stand by Glazing Wind with blood and steel till the very end."
Drezmir pushes Gilded's blade down as he talks of a long day. The captain thinks for a moment before he nods.
"It's true, so much constant battle can lead to leftover adrenaline. That could explain the aggression."
Though it appeared the commander was unreasonable with Robin and Gwen he seemed more than willing to think of every possible angle before coming to a decision. Gwen walks over and stands beside with Gilded and Drezmir wrapping her arms around the two with a soft smile.
"Thank you both, no all of you! I was afraid you'd kill Simon surely... Commander Rein please you can lead Glazing Winds if you come to believe us. I don't want you to think this an attempt of power for me. It hurt me to stand against him.. I wanted to be wrong. He saved us from so many threats and yet.. That power is tainted commander."
The commander looked at Gwen as he raised an eyebrow before looking to the others.
"Well do you have any more evidence? This scroll may be a start, I know you've a paper to show me but-"
Than the commander see's it, the key's with the golden dragon symbol upon them.
"That.. Is the mark of royalty, no mere noble can have such an insignia. The royal Vintsvent family. But I was sure they forgot about our little town forever ago... How? I don't understand.. Simon said the Vintsvent family abandoned us. Awakening..?"
OOC If Gilded wants he can roll for an Intimidation
Also anyone with a passive Insight of 13 or higher can see a few of the guards get a little uncomfortable when Drezmir brings up the word. "Awakening."
“Captain, I recommend containing Simon for now in a strict manner while everything gets sorted out. In order to prevent his using magic to escape, he will need his hands bound behind his back and a gag kept in place at all times. Even giving him a drink of water could create an opportunity for him to use magic and escape. Can he be held in a secure manner, just while things are being figured out?”
"These runes have to do with the rituals he was performing. Simon had a book as well, but it was destroyed in the fight. The scroll should be destroyed as soon as possible it is filled with dark magics." Corvus replies. His feathers are still slightly ruffled, but his expression and voice are calm.
Corvus is pleased to see the guards reaction to the key. No more evidence is needed it seems at least not at the moment. "So none of you were aware that your leader was in contact with the Vintsvents? In that case, we should find whatever lock this key goes to. That should hold any evidence you need. Perhaps they are the ones who put him up to this whole ritual business. Do any of you have a clue where to look?"
Drezmir gives a small smile when Gwen comes to join them, "You alright? You look pretty beat up." He raises an eyebrow when Gwen asks the Commander to take control of Glanzing winds, having assumed that she would take Simon's place. However, he does understand the move, and if she thinks this Commander is a good choice, he will not argue.
He nods to Robin, "I'll get it." As he walks over to the table, he gives Corvus an expectant look. "You need to show them that orb. It won't do any of us any good if you keep it for yourself."
When he reaches the desk, he will pick up the paper and look it over as he walks back over to the Captain.
(I'm hoping he can read some of it before he hands it over.)
Upon returning to his place beside Gwen, he hands the paper to the Captain.
"If that insignia belongs to this...Vintsvents, I would assume they are wrapped up in this awakening. We found other seals with the Jet brothers and the goblins, though we assumed that they had been letters from Simon at the time...perhaps they were, but it is worth noting either way."
He nods to Jess, "I would also heed her words. From what Simon said during our fight...I don't think he would have any qualms attacking any of you--especially if he knows we've told you about this...Awakening."
Commander Rein had looked to Corvus than looked to Gilded.
"An orb? What orb? What is he talking about?"
The guard looks to Jess as his men pick Simon up.
"Well nothing is proven quite yet, as far as I'm concerned he may still be my lord. If you prove you're case than we can take certain precautions for such a matter."
The guard looks at the symbols yet again before hearing about this book.
"So this scroll has symbols attached to dark magic? Can I see where these rituals take place? Also it seems a bit convenient the book that may condemn him was "Destroyed." Yet this scroll survives. However I hear you have an orb to examine as well?"
Studying upon the symbol Corvus recalls his history on the Vintsvents. A royal family charged with protecting Radiance, each king had proven his worth as either a fighter or a mage to protect his kingdom. The current king Edward Vintsvent was one grand fighter that had once made his name by slaying a mighty dragon. As the stories go anyway, there are many Vintsvents not all of which reside at the capital of Radiance in Dawn City. Edward Vinsvent having his wife Vanessa Vintsvent and three children that reside at the castle.
"Wait.. You think the Vintsvents are into dark magic? King Edward may have abandoned Glazing Winds but he's saved Radiance once before. No.. I had no clue Simon was in contact with the Vintsvents... But these keys aren't enough proof they were in contact."
Gwen looks and see's Drezmir raise his eyebrow a bit. She isn't sure why but she tilts her head a little worried she comes over to see his wounds with a weak smile.
"Me beat up? Hah! Look at you! You look terrible Drezmir! Wait.. Is that dirt or soot on you're face?"
Gwen looks over as Drezmir talks of the orb now too. Drezmir had grabbed the paper reading it over himself quickly before handing it to the captain.
Drezmir was a man of average intellect academically, he was no fool but he was wise enough others were more book learned than he. However he was able to understand the paper well enough in that short time. (Unless he wants to hold it longer and do a full INT check.) It was a correspondence between a Vintsvent and Simon. The Vintsvent was wise enough to keep their identity a secret. Only using this symbol to prove to Simon they had the resources to help fund his research and speed things along. The letter falls revealing many papers in fact. If Drezmir picks them up he see's a handfull of responses.
"I can't do this.. I'm growing stronger but.. My mind.. The frost it... Muddles my mind."
"You must, you can't protect Glazing Winds as you are Simon."
This is one exchange that strikes out the most, perhaps Drezmir could ask the guard for these papers back afterward? The party was right this was not Simon's idea and the mage had even second guessed everything before. Would this really change everything? Those people? People like Emily were still dead. Yet.. People like Gwen would be happy to know her brother wasn't so willing right? It was hard to say really. There is no proof on the papers if multiple Vintsvents are involved or not but there was only one person writing back to Simon. At least that is what it appeared to be. Gwen comes over and looks to Drezmir and the letter.
"No you're right the letters to Jet and the goblin's were Simon's noble seal before.. But this insignia is different.. This is real royalty. Could they all be involved? Gods.. I hope not Radiance has always relied on the Vintsvents."
The guards looks to Drezmir about tying up Simon and upon reading the letters (it takes a few minutes.) He looks back up with a solemn look.
"I can't believe I'm saying this... But men restrain and bound Simon. Keep an eye on him, this letter right here.. Is pretty damning. So now I ask.. Where can I look for his research notes? So that we may destroy them. ..Gods Simon you fool... You didn't need to do this for Glazing Winds... If I had kept this town in better order he'd never have.... Oh gods.."
In response to Gwen Drezmir smiles, "Soot, definitely soot." He laughs, "Its a good thing we've got a number of healers here, else I'd still be on the floor."
Drez just glances over the letters, right now his first concern is to convince these guards that they are not enemies. However, he does show Gwen that response, hoping to give her some piece of mind before handing it over to the Commander. Perhaps he will ask for them back later, after everything else is sorted out. It would be good to keep ahold of at least one of them in hopes of tracking down whomever this writer is.
"Hmm, I must say I don't understand royalty and their rolls all that much. Back in Romalia we have a different way of doing things."
He listens as the Commander gives the order to restrain and bind Simon, "Don't blame yourself sir. It seems Simon had pressures from his past as well as outside here to gain power. Something tells me that even if Glanzing winds was in the best shape it could possibly be in, he'd still have felt the need to improve himself. High expectations can do that to a person."
Corvus sighs, "Yes our good friend Drezmir here used it as a shield when Simon tried to set him on fire. The rituals were performed in the underground area of this mansion, we can show you if you like."
After Drezmir hands the letter to the commander, Corvus pulls out the orb and shows it to him. As he does so, he makes sure his back is turned to Gilded. He speaks in a calm matter-of-fact tone of voice, "This is the orb those two are talking about. It is merely an arcane focus, however, it was being used to channel Simon's tainted magic. That said, it itself has been slightly tainted. I was planning on examining it farther once i get the chance to take an adequate rest. Once I do, I can seal the taint and leave it safe to use. I myself have dealt with magic items such as this several times, and have taken measures to ensure that I will not be tainted. This item may or may not be like the scroll. Simply burning the scroll will destroy it. This orb on the other hand is something different, destroying it might destroy the taint, or it could just release it, tainting something or someone else in the area. If you wish to take it as evidence, then take it, but handle it with caution. If you would rather not risk corruption, then let me take care of it."
(This is meant to deceive Drezmir and anyone else in his immediate proximity as well.)
"Still on the floor?! What!? You're joking right? Are you okay? I guess I should have known it'd be such a difficult battle. I'm glad you all looked out for each other."
Gwen looks at the papers briefly as Drezmir shows them before handing them over. She seems to be.. A bit lost in thought for the moment. The guard looks to Drezmir before taking a rather deep breath.
"It's a damn shame truly, still we should destroy the ritual site just in case. So this awakening can't ever be completed. I just.. Wish Simon had enough faith to know we'd have helped him. Instead of trying to be our savior."
Corvus had talked about the area underground, the guards looked at each other before the commander looked to Corvus.
"Yes if you could show us that would be fantastic."
The guards look at each other and look to the orb. His words had fluttered about but he seemed.. Confident in his magic (20 in deception.) And sure what he knew what to do with it. The guards weren't sure what to make of it really.
"All I'd do is sent to the capital for research but.. I think I'll leave the decision to what is to be done with it among you're group, You guys seem to understand this better than we do. Sadly Simon would have handled things like this for us before... But well ya know."
Gwen had nodded along with Corvus and the guard that plan had made sense. She was feeling uneasy but the commander himself felt pretty reassured in the matter.
"Well I'm ready to head out if you are, I'll be sending a few guards around to check the area. I think we can trust you not to attack us yes? See we had a break in earlier during this whole siege. A thief was caught on the third floor, before escaping to the first. I'm not sure what he may have stolen. He was wounded last we saw him but.. He could be skulking around and we need to check around. You four! Check the treasury! As if today wasn't crazy enough..."
"Yes sir!"
OOC Only the deception is needed, unless the persuasion is too add "Charm" or likability in his tone? But I'm sure for Corvus it's more so just the deception yes?
(Deception for the lie, Persuasion for letting him keep it. That was my line of thought.)
"Of course, right this way," Corvus says smoothly as he places the orb back in his satchel, "May I suggest having a few of my companions accompany your men in hunting down this thief? One who is practiced in magic? Jess or Gilded perhaps?"
Corvus turns to Drezmir and holds the key out to him, "Perhaps you should keep an eye out for whatever this goes to. I'll show these men where the rituals were performed."
Drezmir gives a chuckle, "Yeah...no, a few of us got knocked out during this fight, but we're all fine."
He listens as Corvus and the guards talk, then nods as well. He really didn't see any harm in letting Corvus keep the orb, but he didn't like that the thing was causing an argument between the warlock and Gilded. Ah well, if it was resolved it didn't really matter anymore.
When the Commander says he's ready to go, Drezmir replies, "You have nothing to fear from us. A thief you say? Interesting... Do you have a description? Perhaps we can be on the lookout in the meantime. Might as well do whatever we can to help make things easier for all of you."
When Jess mentions the letters Drezmir nods, "Yes I was wondering the same thing. I've a mind to track down whomever sent them and deal with this problem at the source. The last thing we want is for someone else to end up in the same boat as Simon."
He excepts the key from Corvus, "Alright." He turns the key over in his hand, wondering what it could be for.
The guards look to Corvus they seemed to be okay with Corvus keeping the orb. They looked to Corvus offer the aid of Jess and Gilded for looking for these thief.
"Aye, we could use all the help we could get in tracking him down but we better hurry! If he is still skulking around it won't be for much longer!"
Corvus had handed the key to Drezmir before preparing to lead the other men toward the cellar with Simon's research notes. Gwen looks at Drezmir with concern before letting out a long sigh of worry upon his comment. One guard nods to Jess tying some rope around Simons face. The commander looks to Jess and nods.
"Sure, just let me finish the finer details of reading everything here. I plan on sending these with you two. I hate to ask more of you all but.. You're probably the best to investigate this mess."
Gwen looks at Simon passed out, bound and gagged it was a hard sight to behold. She understood why of course but.. To see Jess be so direct about it. Gwen wasn't angry but it was certainly shocking. The commander looks to Drezmir and nods.
"The thief is a young fairy male, as for any other information? I'm afraid we have none for the moment. Though there is still one group of bandits around these parts. Their small timers compared to the Jet gang though and not exactly a priority. If we Gwen's knights.. Join service with us again.. With the hill giants and the Jet gang gone I'm confident we can clean this town up ourselves. I've already asked much from you, I just hope they didn't take anything too valuable the treasury has the funds for the town's supplies.. For food and water that we desperately need."
With that the four guards leave with any party members willing to aid them hunt the thief. While the others follow Corvus to the cellars. (If he would still lead them.)
Kocino looks to the duelist. “What else is in the manor? Traps, monsters, rituals… We need to make sure this place is safe.”
Gilded nods to Jess, "While your faith may be misguided, you have conviction and I can respect that." He looks at her a bit longer, sizing her up. while she wants to kill Simon as much as anyone, she is willing to listen to reason.
Robin agrees with Gilded again, and as much as it pains him to do so, he must begrudgingly admit that he may have had him wrong.
he is about to get a bit more robust with Corvus as Drez has now came to see things the same as him, when the door burst open and all kinds of people start crowding in. Gilded immediately grabs his longsword and goes into defense mode, still holding the scroll in one hand, he turns to face the new enemy.
Then Gwen rushes in and starts going back and forth with the guards. Things seem to be stabilizing as Corvus grabs the scroll from his hand and runs it to the guards. "Grrrrrrr' A deep growl can be heard coming from deep inside the dragon, but he makes no suggestion as to who it is aimed at. 'This is not over bird-man' He thinks to himself, but that is not his primary focus at the moment so he lets it drop.
When the guard approaches him and Drez, Gilded automatically steps in front Drez. "We didn't kill your friends, or Simon, because there is no honor in it. I have made a vow to honor Iroas, the only god that will live up to his promises in Radiance, and he would not be pleased if we were to kill without honor, even when it is deserved.
Gilded appeared agitated with before the guards even came into the room, dealing with Covus, the death of Simon, and his feelings toward Robin. He is definitely more so now, as the tense standoff is happening. Believe me when I say that to kill in battle is perfectly acceptable, and while you may win, if you choose to fight us, some of you will find that out." Gilded points his sword directly at the captain, proving that he will not be intimidated, and asks. "Now do you recognize the key that my companion has shown you, or do you want to work this out with steel and blood?"
Drezmir is a little surprised when Gilded steps in front of him, and grows a little concerned when he realizes that Gilded is rather agitated. After the Dragonborn point's his sword at the captain, Drezmir reaches out and gently pushes the blade downwards so that it is no longer pointed at the man, "Alright my friend. It's been a long day, but we have to realize that these people are willing to hear us out. I don't think they are going to try and attack us now, we'd be better off not making threats."
He turns to the Captain, "Personally, I would prefer not to get into another fight. We have your evidence, and your Lord is still alive. None of us here, including Gwen, came here to dethrone Simon and usurp Glanzing Winds. We saw a threat, and wanted to take it down. Simple as that. I for one believe that Simon was as much a victim here as he is responsible...not that I am excusing his actions. They are his to pay for. But someone else put these ideas into his head first. Nevertheless, it seems that it was his choice to follow through with whatever this Awakening is. As far as we know, the Awakening was still incomplete. We have the gods to thank for that."
Robin sheaths his blade and heads over to the desk to the paper before the commander draws his blade his direction.
"Not you Robin! You won't be allowed to provide evidence. We can't trust you to be moving about."
"Fine.. But on his desk is a paper.. Drezmir can you get it for me? Since I apparently can't move."
Corvus had came over to the commander in red. Handing him a scroll, on it was many magical symbols he tilted his head a bit confused.
"These are indeed attached to other spells but.. Simon is a mage. This is meant to set a few other spells off to be sure.. I think? I'm not sure honestly, I would need more to go on than just this."
One of the surviving Duelist looks to Kocino.
"The commander can disable the manor's security as we travel. As for Rituals I.. I don't know.. Wait monsters? We only use guards have you seen monsters?"
The commander looks to Gilded though he seems strong in his arm, he couldn't disguise his wounds. None of them really could it was clear they were singed and burned or covered in frost.
"Steel and blood lad? Half of you are barely standing! I suppose you must be brave to have fought Simon surely but... That seems like a foolish claim to make son. I'll hear you out of course but if anything is amiss we will stand by Glazing Wind with blood and steel till the very end."
Drezmir pushes Gilded's blade down as he talks of a long day. The captain thinks for a moment before he nods.
"It's true, so much constant battle can lead to leftover adrenaline. That could explain the aggression."
Though it appeared the commander was unreasonable with Robin and Gwen he seemed more than willing to think of every possible angle before coming to a decision. Gwen walks over and stands beside with Gilded and Drezmir wrapping her arms around the two with a soft smile.
"Thank you both, no all of you! I was afraid you'd kill Simon surely... Commander Rein please you can lead Glazing Winds if you come to believe us. I don't want you to think this an attempt of power for me. It hurt me to stand against him.. I wanted to be wrong. He saved us from so many threats and yet.. That power is tainted commander."
The commander looked at Gwen as he raised an eyebrow before looking to the others.
"Well do you have any more evidence? This scroll may be a start, I know you've a paper to show me but-"
Than the commander see's it, the key's with the golden dragon symbol upon them.
"That.. Is the mark of royalty, no mere noble can have such an insignia. The royal Vintsvent family. But I was sure they forgot about our little town forever ago... How? I don't understand.. Simon said the Vintsvent family abandoned us. Awakening..?"
OOC
If Gilded wants he can roll for an Intimidation
Also anyone with a passive Insight of 13 or higher can see a few of the guards get a little uncomfortable when Drezmir brings up the word. "Awakening."
(OOC: Actually, Gilded is perfectly happy with how it played out... couln't have scripted it better.. :-)
"Corvus, I think maybe you should show the guard the orb that you are carrying."
Jess steps forward and says,
“Captain, I recommend containing Simon for now in a strict manner while everything gets sorted out. In order to prevent his using magic to escape, he will need his hands bound behind his back and a gag kept in place at all times. Even giving him a drink of water could create an opportunity for him to use magic and escape. Can he be held in a secure manner, just while things are being figured out?”
"These runes have to do with the rituals he was performing. Simon had a book as well, but it was destroyed in the fight. The scroll should be destroyed as soon as possible it is filled with dark magics." Corvus replies. His feathers are still slightly ruffled, but his expression and voice are calm.
Corvus is pleased to see the guards reaction to the key. No more evidence is needed it seems at least not at the moment. "So none of you were aware that your leader was in contact with the Vintsvents? In that case, we should find whatever lock this key goes to. That should hold any evidence you need. Perhaps they are the ones who put him up to this whole ritual business. Do any of you have a clue where to look?"
Corvus ignores Gilded for now.
History to see if Corvus knows anything about the Vintsvents: 18
Drezmir gives a small smile when Gwen comes to join them, "You alright? You look pretty beat up." He raises an eyebrow when Gwen asks the Commander to take control of Glanzing winds, having assumed that she would take Simon's place. However, he does understand the move, and if she thinks this Commander is a good choice, he will not argue.
He nods to Robin, "I'll get it." As he walks over to the table, he gives Corvus an expectant look. "You need to show them that orb. It won't do any of us any good if you keep it for yourself."
When he reaches the desk, he will pick up the paper and look it over as he walks back over to the Captain.
(I'm hoping he can read some of it before he hands it over.)
Upon returning to his place beside Gwen, he hands the paper to the Captain.
"If that insignia belongs to this...Vintsvents, I would assume they are wrapped up in this awakening. We found other seals with the Jet brothers and the goblins, though we assumed that they had been letters from Simon at the time...perhaps they were, but it is worth noting either way."
He nods to Jess, "I would also heed her words. From what Simon said during our fight...I don't think he would have any qualms attacking any of you--especially if he knows we've told you about this...Awakening."
Commander Rein had looked to Corvus than looked to Gilded.
"An orb? What orb? What is he talking about?"
The guard looks to Jess as his men pick Simon up.
"Well nothing is proven quite yet, as far as I'm concerned he may still be my lord. If you prove you're case than we can take certain precautions for such a matter."
The guard looks at the symbols yet again before hearing about this book.
"So this scroll has symbols attached to dark magic? Can I see where these rituals take place? Also it seems a bit convenient the book that may condemn him was "Destroyed." Yet this scroll survives. However I hear you have an orb to examine as well?"
Studying upon the symbol Corvus recalls his history on the Vintsvents. A royal family charged with protecting Radiance, each king had proven his worth as either a fighter or a mage to protect his kingdom. The current king Edward Vintsvent was one grand fighter that had once made his name by slaying a mighty dragon. As the stories go anyway, there are many Vintsvents not all of which reside at the capital of Radiance in Dawn City. Edward Vinsvent having his wife Vanessa Vintsvent and three children that reside at the castle.
"Wait.. You think the Vintsvents are into dark magic? King Edward may have abandoned Glazing Winds but he's saved Radiance once before. No.. I had no clue Simon was in contact with the Vintsvents... But these keys aren't enough proof they were in contact."
Gwen looks and see's Drezmir raise his eyebrow a bit. She isn't sure why but she tilts her head a little worried she comes over to see his wounds with a weak smile.
"Me beat up? Hah! Look at you! You look terrible Drezmir! Wait.. Is that dirt or soot on you're face?"
Gwen looks over as Drezmir talks of the orb now too. Drezmir had grabbed the paper reading it over himself quickly before handing it to the captain.
Drezmir was a man of average intellect academically, he was no fool but he was wise enough others were more book learned than he. However he was able to understand the paper well enough in that short time. (Unless he wants to hold it longer and do a full INT check.) It was a correspondence between a Vintsvent and Simon. The Vintsvent was wise enough to keep their identity a secret. Only using this symbol to prove to Simon they had the resources to help fund his research and speed things along. The letter falls revealing many papers in fact. If Drezmir picks them up he see's a handfull of responses.
"I can't do this.. I'm growing stronger but.. My mind.. The frost it... Muddles my mind."
"You must, you can't protect Glazing Winds as you are Simon."
This is one exchange that strikes out the most, perhaps Drezmir could ask the guard for these papers back afterward? The party was right this was not Simon's idea and the mage had even second guessed everything before. Would this really change everything? Those people? People like Emily were still dead. Yet.. People like Gwen would be happy to know her brother wasn't so willing right? It was hard to say really. There is no proof on the papers if multiple Vintsvents are involved or not but there was only one person writing back to Simon. At least that is what it appeared to be. Gwen comes over and looks to Drezmir and the letter.
"No you're right the letters to Jet and the goblin's were Simon's noble seal before.. But this insignia is different.. This is real royalty. Could they all be involved? Gods.. I hope not Radiance has always relied on the Vintsvents."
The guards looks to Drezmir about tying up Simon and upon reading the letters (it takes a few minutes.) He looks back up with a solemn look.
"I can't believe I'm saying this... But men restrain and bound Simon. Keep an eye on him, this letter right here.. Is pretty damning. So now I ask.. Where can I look for his research notes? So that we may destroy them. ..Gods Simon you fool... You didn't need to do this for Glazing Winds... If I had kept this town in better order he'd never have.... Oh gods.."
In response to Gwen Drezmir smiles, "Soot, definitely soot." He laughs, "Its a good thing we've got a number of healers here, else I'd still be on the floor."
Drez just glances over the letters, right now his first concern is to convince these guards that they are not enemies. However, he does show Gwen that response, hoping to give her some piece of mind before handing it over to the Commander. Perhaps he will ask for them back later, after everything else is sorted out. It would be good to keep ahold of at least one of them in hopes of tracking down whomever this writer is.
"Hmm, I must say I don't understand royalty and their rolls all that much. Back in Romalia we have a different way of doing things."
He listens as the Commander gives the order to restrain and bind Simon, "Don't blame yourself sir. It seems Simon had pressures from his past as well as outside here to gain power. Something tells me that even if Glanzing winds was in the best shape it could possibly be in, he'd still have felt the need to improve himself. High expectations can do that to a person."
Corvus sighs, "Yes our good friend Drezmir here used it as a shield when Simon tried to set him on fire. The rituals were performed in the underground area of this mansion, we can show you if you like."
After Drezmir hands the letter to the commander, Corvus pulls out the orb and shows it to him. As he does so, he makes sure his back is turned to Gilded. He speaks in a calm matter-of-fact tone of voice, "This is the orb those two are talking about. It is merely an arcane focus, however, it was being used to channel Simon's tainted magic. That said, it itself has been slightly tainted. I was planning on examining it farther once i get the chance to take an adequate rest. Once I do, I can seal the taint and leave it safe to use. I myself have dealt with magic items such as this several times, and have taken measures to ensure that I will not be tainted. This item may or may not be like the scroll. Simply burning the scroll will destroy it. This orb on the other hand is something different, destroying it might destroy the taint, or it could just release it, tainting something or someone else in the area. If you wish to take it as evidence, then take it, but handle it with caution. If you would rather not risk corruption, then let me take care of it."
(This is meant to deceive Drezmir and anyone else in his immediate proximity as well.)
Deception: 20
Persuasion (If necessary): 17
Gwen's eyes had widened in shock for a moment.
"Still on the floor?! What!? You're joking right? Are you okay? I guess I should have known it'd be such a difficult battle. I'm glad you all looked out for each other."
Gwen looks at the papers briefly as Drezmir shows them before handing them over. She seems to be.. A bit lost in thought for the moment. The guard looks to Drezmir before taking a rather deep breath.
"It's a damn shame truly, still we should destroy the ritual site just in case. So this awakening can't ever be completed. I just.. Wish Simon had enough faith to know we'd have helped him. Instead of trying to be our savior."
Corvus had talked about the area underground, the guards looked at each other before the commander looked to Corvus.
"Yes if you could show us that would be fantastic."
The guards look at each other and look to the orb. His words had fluttered about but he seemed.. Confident in his magic (20 in deception.) And sure what he knew what to do with it. The guards weren't sure what to make of it really.
"All I'd do is sent to the capital for research but.. I think I'll leave the decision to what is to be done with it among you're group, You guys seem to understand this better than we do. Sadly Simon would have handled things like this for us before... But well ya know."
Gwen had nodded along with Corvus and the guard that plan had made sense. She was feeling uneasy but the commander himself felt pretty reassured in the matter.
"Well I'm ready to head out if you are, I'll be sending a few guards around to check the area. I think we can trust you not to attack us yes? See we had a break in earlier during this whole siege. A thief was caught on the third floor, before escaping to the first. I'm not sure what he may have stolen. He was wounded last we saw him but.. He could be skulking around and we need to check around. You four! Check the treasury! As if today wasn't crazy enough..."
"Yes sir!"
OOC
Only the deception is needed, unless the persuasion is too add "Charm" or likability in his tone? But I'm sure for Corvus it's more so just the deception yes?
(Oh geez the dawnsword was stolen I bet)
Jess says (talking about restraining Simon),
“Don’t forget to gag him too.”
Also,
“Would we be permitted to retain those letters? We may want to investigate this connection further.”
(Deception for the lie, Persuasion for letting him keep it. That was my line of thought.)
"Of course, right this way," Corvus says smoothly as he places the orb back in his satchel, "May I suggest having a few of my companions accompany your men in hunting down this thief? One who is practiced in magic? Jess or Gilded perhaps?"
Corvus turns to Drezmir and holds the key out to him, "Perhaps you should keep an eye out for whatever this goes to. I'll show these men where the rituals were performed."
Drezmir gives a chuckle, "Yeah...no, a few of us got knocked out during this fight, but we're all fine."
He listens as Corvus and the guards talk, then nods as well. He really didn't see any harm in letting Corvus keep the orb, but he didn't like that the thing was causing an argument between the warlock and Gilded. Ah well, if it was resolved it didn't really matter anymore.
When the Commander says he's ready to go, Drezmir replies, "You have nothing to fear from us. A thief you say? Interesting... Do you have a description? Perhaps we can be on the lookout in the meantime. Might as well do whatever we can to help make things easier for all of you."
When Jess mentions the letters Drezmir nods, "Yes I was wondering the same thing. I've a mind to track down whomever sent them and deal with this problem at the source. The last thing we want is for someone else to end up in the same boat as Simon."
He excepts the key from Corvus, "Alright." He turns the key over in his hand, wondering what it could be for.
Kocino lets out a sigh. “Normally, I’d be eager to case down a thief, but I’m afraid I’m nearly out of tricks for the day.”
The guards look to Corvus they seemed to be okay with Corvus keeping the orb. They looked to Corvus offer the aid of Jess and Gilded for looking for these thief.
"Aye, we could use all the help we could get in tracking him down but we better hurry! If he is still skulking around it won't be for much longer!"
Corvus had handed the key to Drezmir before preparing to lead the other men toward the cellar with Simon's research notes. Gwen looks at Drezmir with concern before letting out a long sigh of worry upon his comment. One guard nods to Jess tying some rope around Simons face. The commander looks to Jess and nods.
"Sure, just let me finish the finer details of reading everything here. I plan on sending these with you two. I hate to ask more of you all but.. You're probably the best to investigate this mess."
Gwen looks at Simon passed out, bound and gagged it was a hard sight to behold. She understood why of course but.. To see Jess be so direct about it. Gwen wasn't angry but it was certainly shocking. The commander looks to Drezmir and nods.
"The thief is a young fairy male, as for any other information? I'm afraid we have none for the moment. Though there is still one group of bandits around these parts. Their small timers compared to the Jet gang though and not exactly a priority. If we Gwen's knights.. Join service with us again.. With the hill giants and the Jet gang gone I'm confident we can clean this town up ourselves. I've already asked much from you, I just hope they didn't take anything too valuable the treasury has the funds for the town's supplies.. For food and water that we desperately need."
With that the four guards leave with any party members willing to aid them hunt the thief. While the others follow Corvus to the cellars. (If he would still lead them.)
Jess will accompany and lend what aid that she can (which may not be much, but she won’t admit that right now).
Gilded will follow Jess, but not before he gives a look toward Corvus.
"I will go with you, but like Kocino, I don't know how much help I would be in a fight at this point."