Jess wants to try to intuit Robin’s stance on the talk of either killing or not killing Simon. Can she tell which way he leans on that matter, based on his reactions etc?
(OOC: sorry for delay, weekend has been crazy busy.)
Gilded sits and listens to everyone talk about Simon and getting Robin's help, when Robin says something about a catch, he starts to move forward. Just before he speaks, he sees Robin wink at Jess and hears Drez talk about respecting him he can hold back no longer.
"What will you do when Simon is defeated, either by death or jail or banishment, or whatever? Who will run this city? You, are you qualified to be a true leader instead of just a trouble maker? What kind of justice do you follow? Do you even beleive in a system of laws and justice? "
Gilded will spit at the floor. "I have no respect for you, you are no better than the people you claim to oppose. Your a bully and a thug that thinks you can take from anyone you want and disperse it at your pleasure. Who made you to decide who should get to trade in this town and who shouldn't. "
He looks at his companions and continues.
"We neither need, nor do I want your help. When this is over, I will owe you nothing but a cell. You and your men are convicts and should be held accountable. I respect the people here with me, and because of that, I will do what they want, but you are not to be trusted, and I'll be keeping an eye on you.
"Who are you even helping, you obviously don't want to help Gwen, you wanted to assault and rob her just to prove a point to her brother? Your havent been elected by the people that I can tell. So I think you just work for yourself."
A cackling laugh is heard from Corvus's direction. He had been listening to the other's speak with Robin, but up to this point he had not thought it necessary for him to intervene. He doesn't move from what he is currently doing, but he speaks up.
"Gilded, think about what you just said. As far as I, or any of you know, Robin has not killed anyone other than Jet's men. Sure, he has robbed some folks, but what of it? He had a good reason. You say you don't want to work with him because he is a trouble maker, but look who else you have in your company. Vex, has admitted to being a murderer. You say you are fine with working with him because he want's to atone for his sins? Robin just said he isn't proud of what he's done, and on top of that said you could take his freedom."
The Aarakocra looks over his shoulder fixing the dragonborn with his red eye. "As far as I see it. He is on the same side as we are. Right now anyways. And as far as I know, you are not the one who gets to decide his punishment. Once this is over, he will answer to the town, and to Gwen."
His eye flicks to the others, "On top of that, I do not think you should get to make decisions for this entire company. Just because you don't like him, and you don't want his help, doesn't mean the rest of us can't accept it. I for one would prefer to face Simon with as much strength as possible. If Robin is willing to lend us his, then so be it."
He turns his attention back to what he is doing, and grumbles something to himself.
Robin blinks and almost half flinched when Jess had spoke to him. Had he expected her to slap him? Or was it something else? Still he had chuckled softly. He seemed even more relaxed than before upon hearing Jess's offer.
"No.. Gwen took a bad hit earlier but I was able to give her a healing potion. She let me sneak on ahead, I haven't been in much combat yet truly. I was hoping to avoid the guards to take on Simon myself but.. It may be tricky if he doesn't travel alone. Well.. Perhaps I shouldn't just call you beautiful, if I may be so rude to ask yet again.. What is you're name?" For once Robin seemed interested to know a woman's name rather than to give her one of his usual pet names. Robin's smile slowly furls into a frown when Vex tells him of this.
"Than Simon dies, I mean.. Gwen asked me if I could save him. Though I gave her no such promise nor my word. If she wants to kill me after all of this is over? Than so be it. I'm just ready for this town to be free.. Free to thrive or sink on it's own terms.
Robin's expressions appear the least guarded toward Jess, she can tell he is most open around her for starters. Though he doesn't seem to guarded against Drezmir either. Robin seems sincere in his believes but Jess looks for his reactions when Simon is brought up. There is... Hatred toward this man.. Personal hatred. It seems Robin wants Simon dead at least this is how it appears to Jess. As Drezmir talks of sparing Simon he scoffs a bit in disbelief.
"First you spare the Jet brothers.. But Simon? That so called savior is.. He's a monster. I don't.. I don't care what he was before if he was ever a good person! I can't just let him.. I can't just... Let him go after everything he's done!"
Robin begins breath heavier but as Drezmir continues his opinion of Robin he glances to the ground eyes clouded with guilt and a heavy sigh.
"Look I.. I'm sorry I lost my cool okay but.. I appreciate you're words and you saying my men can be free but.. Asking me to let Simon go..? It's just... Too much."
Gilded comes forward in this moment of doubt that Robin feels. He takes a step back before taking another step forward to stand his ground listening to the dragonborn.
"Me..? A leader here? That was never my intent.. I'll be honest.. For the longest time I didn't trust Gwen. I never thought she'd fight against her brother and so once upon a time.. Her and me had fought before. She had a chance to kill me but she didn't.. I learned that day she isn't the monster her brother was.. But it wasn't until you all brought her with the Jet brothers. She risked her life.. For me and my men.. Strangers. Hell you lot did too fighting out in that field.. That's why I shot at the brothers. I figured either Gwen.. Or one of you would take charge when this was all over. Hell.. I might not even live through this. Either by Simon or vengeance from Gwen I'm not sure I'll live through tomorrow either way. Hm? Do I believe in the laws of justice? I suppose it depends. If they support monsters like Simon? If innocent people are hurt? Than no I would not chain myself to such suffering but.. If they are noble and just laws than yes I would abide by them."
Robin looks as Gilded spits at the floor offering nothing but a simple shrug his guard slowly beginning to raise. Not his weapon but his muscles and tensions are rather high at this moment.
"I didn't do it for you're or anyone else's respect. I did it to protect those I love in this town. Even if I burn in the hells for what I've done.. I'd do it all again if it eases the pain of others. I understand robbing outsiders wasn't right, but many outsiders like the Jet brothers came here to take advantage of our weakness. They robbed,stole,killed and raped through here. I'll admit Simon drove out many of them but they kept coming.. And coming and so I took a stand. I admit.. I can't know every merchant we robbed was a cruel outsider. But they came from the capital.. They had food and money and comfort my people? They did not. I didn't kill any of them, unless they drew blood first."
Robin looks at Gilded with a strong look when he brings his men to it.
"I'll accept you're rage, you're cell and whatever vengeance you believe I deserve. If you do not wish my help I will be off.. However if you so much as raise a single hand to my men and their lives I will not stand aside. That is all I have to say, they deserve to live normal lives.. After all they've lost and fought and bled for. I won't let you take their lives away. Who do I work for? What? Do I sign in application to do the right thing? Is that it? The only election I ever had was the people under me.. Asking me to lead. I'll admit.. Once upon a time I thought Gwen was no better than Simon. I spent so much time distrusting her.. Even after she spared me. I can admit I was wrong about her. When you guys entered the town I thought you were self righteous adventurers. I thought you'd take a few quest shake hands with Gwen and Simon. Take some money, maybe steal from the shops like others who have taken jobs here before and than go to the next town. Like we were nothing.. But I was wrong, well maybe I wasn't wrong about one of you being self righteous anyway."
Robin says glaring back to Gilded a pointed stare that lasted until Corvus had stepped in. Or rather a laughter was heard from Corvus? This laugh seems to throw Robin off even more than Gilded's little speech. Though as Corvus speaks Robin begins to calm down a bit his expression slowly losing it's anger. Robin looks to the group curious which one of these was this "Vex."
"I see.. Well to whoever here is Vex.. It isn't an easy road.. And it may even lead to you're death by a knight.. Or a paladin seeking justice. But I hope you find that atonement and that peace.
Robin looks to Corvus blinking with surprise and shock.
"I'll be honest.. I expected more of you to condemn me. Well.. If the majority of you still wish to team up than I won't let one opinion stop me. I'm not as childish as to let a single person stop me from doing the tactical thing. Simon is sure to have guards and I may not be strong enough to do this alone.. No I was going to rely on stealth for a reason. I know I'm not strong enough alone.. So I would work with you."
At the mention of Gwen, Drez turns his attention back to Robin. He is glad that she is alright, but what is she doing now? Is she planning on helping them with Simon? It would be good to have her there...unless...unless things went bad.
Drezmir's gut clenches at Gilded's show of hostility. He knew the paladin's opinions, but he hadn't expected...well he honestly hadn't known what to expect. None of them had expected to find Robin here, so the issue before had only been with the men who'd followed him. Now, Gilded was facing the leader himself, so perhaps his reaction was only natural. Still, he had to stand by his own judgement. In his eyes, Robin was no different from them. He was willing to draw blood to fight for the people he loves. Had they not done the same thing?
However, he could not allow Robin to simply take the life of Simon. Great Fulgur, sometimes he felt like a monster himself. It wouldn't be fair to condemn Simon for becoming one as well, especially not if he'd had the same intentions as Robin--to protect Glanzing Winds.
"I will say this again. Our mission here is not to kill Simon. We need to at least give him a chance before we take his life. For his sake and for Gwen's." Drezmir crosses his arms, "It is clear that something has happened to make you hate him so much. I am sorry for whatever he did, but that doesn't change my opinion. I agree with Corvus that your help would be much appreciated, but not if you are here for vengeance."
He sighs, and unconsciously rubs his hands over the scars on his arms. He continues, his voice lower then before, "We all have our own monsters. I know that better then most. Please, I have to try and save him. If I fail, then...then we can end it. I just have to try."
When Corvus tells him what he found out about the ritual, he frowns. "Either this is worse then I thought, or Simon was not the one who..." He glances at Robin before continuing. "Or he was not the one who underwent the ritual. I suppose we will find out when the time comes."
Corvus stands up and walks over to the group. He addresses Robin.
"You have a goal, and you will not let anyone or anything stand in your way in order to achieve it." He doesn't have a particularly kind tone when he says this, but it is not threatening either. "I for one, understand this completely."
He turns to Drezmir, "I may have been able to scavenge some information from the inscriptions. I may not be able to speak Infernal, but I have studied it enough to pick out a few words. Enough to have found that whoever underwent this ritual, no longer has his memories. Whoever conducted the ritual purposefully fractured them."
Jess gives Robin a smile as she approaches him. She will put her hand on his arm as a gesture of friendliness, to show that they are allies. Her skin gleams with natural moisture, making it sparkle somewhat in this light. Her hair has the appearance of a slow-flowing waterfall down her temples and neck. She makes her eyes big and holds eye contact with Robin as she speaks:
"My name is Jess, and I believe you. And as I said before, our prime directive is to deal with Simon, and all other considerations are secondary in nature. Right now we're not even sure if Simon is an evil mastermind or more of a subjugated puppet to some greater evil. But our mission is to get to the bottom of it, and end it, one way or another. All this talk of justice in Glazing Winds is just secondary details. We can't cross those bridges until we come to them, because we're not even sure what the outcome against Simon will be yet. I say we spare ourselves the headaches of thinking of what might be, finish our prime directive, and then we will see where all the pieces fall. And Robin, we would be grateful for your help. Gwen has warned us that he is a formidable foe, and your clever aim with a bow will be helpful."
Robin looks to Drezmir and it's clear.. He doesn't see eye to eye with him on this. It isn't hate or distrust in his eyes. He takes a breath again.
"I can't forgive him.. Not after what he's taken from me. He.. He sacrificed my sister. She had shown a talent for magical ability and.. One of the first rituals was to take her.. Her own power and add it to his collection! So what?! Gwen and him can live happily ever after?! She wasn't the only one damn it! He took them all! Never! I'll never forgive him! He's.. Taken everything from gods damn it.. I won't just let him go so he can play the happy big brother. That power he defended this town with? Stolen.."
Robin took his hand to his chest as he began to breath heavier tears had began to invade his face. Each breath was clearly harder to take than the last. Drezmir had finished his speech reflective of the scars of his past. Asking for a single chance to reach out to him.
Corvus looks at Robin when he tells he understands his quest for revenge. He grips his fist thinking about his past.. About everything before.
"You.. Understand? Truly?"
OOC As silly as it is to ask in such a dramatic moment can Drezmir roll for persuasion? Also someone can give him advantage if they ask Robin alongside him
If Drezmir and Corvus share information together. There are certain half phrases that will come together. Possibly gaining new information or at the very least gathering the bigger picture.
Oh I posted just as Todd was whoops. Let me make another post real fast
Jess had placed a hand on Robin, moisture on his own face from the tears before. She had offered a smile to him, up to this point Jess had let her allies handle many social interactions. Perhaps she hadn't seen herself as charismatic or maybe others hadn't seen her in that light. She had told herself her arguments weren't compelling and some thugs had even taken the time to comment on her not being.. Attractive. However in Robin's eyes? In this moment? No one could be more more charismatic and her touch had served to ease the pain if only a bit. He had wiped his face turning around embarrassed by his display. He was Robin! Dashing rogue of Glazing Wind yes? Here he was crying like a newborn in front of a beautiful woman. Made for a poor story yes? With his back turned he sniffled one last time before speaking in a calm and low voice.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Jess, truly." Robin had heard her ask for his help even knowing his hatred for Simon.
"I can't lie.. I want to help Glazing Winds but.. I want vengeance for my family.. For the town and for everyone and everything he's taken. You're friend stated he can't fight alongside me if revenge is on my mind. Perhaps I should follow you're lead.. Cross that bridge? When we cross it yes? I do hope it doesn't turn to us crossing blades in the future."
(OOC: oof, Drez may have to reconsider his stance on this lol. But I'll still roll persuasion.)
Persuasion: 21...
LOL that's a nat 20 on persuasion! Man, I was just thinking how funny that would be. Lol, its come full circle. :)
Drezmir is shocked by this revelation. Simon had sunk as low as to sacrifice a fellow person! His opinion waver's for only a moment however. There is still hope that he was under some dark influence, that something else moved him to perform such evil acts. There is always hope for redemption. ...still. He looks to Robin, "I...I cannot pretend to understand the pain you've endured. I've never known any family outside the monastery were I was raised. I cannot fathom the pain it caused you to lose your own sister." He sighs, "Perhaps he is the monster you know him to be, but I must hold out hope that there is more to this story. Even if I am wrong, at least I can say I tried. Even...even if Simon no longer deserves that hope, Gwen does."
Drezmir's words had rolled off effortlessly, the words were dripping with empathy and understanding. Not to condemn but of understanding. Robin turns around as he listens to Drezmir. Walking closer to Drezmir he looks at him.. Drezmir's expression and his tone? Robin couldn't hold anything back anymore. Drezmir's silver tongue had sent the man crying completely as he collapsed against the elf. Holding on to him as he began to weep.
"I-I.. Damn it.. You're right.. He may have stole Emily.. But if Gwen had a loving brother... I'd.. I'd be no.." Though he can't finish the sentence Drezmir surely knows what he means to say. Holding on to what was realistically speaking? A stranger Robin had let out his pain and anguish. Taking his first steps.. To maybe letting his anger go. After a few moments of sobbing he looks to Corvus than back to Drezmir and nods.
"I will not take.. Take Simon's life into my own hands on my bow. And on the Emily's grave I swear this to you." He draws his bow forward looking to Drezmir with determination even if his eyes were still misty red from his tears moments ago.
"Well.. It's high time we get going yes? I'm not sure where Robin is but I was attempting to unlock that door here. As well as listen through the door for any guards." Robin had wiped his face yet again ready to push forward.
Corvus' normal frown deepens as Robin breaks down in tears. Up to this point he had some respect for the man. How could he give up revenge so easily? Does Drezmir have some sort of spell to charm people? Corvus thinks back to when they met Gwen. That encounter had taken a similar, yet far less dramatic, coarse.
The Aarakocra remains silent on this matter. By the time Robin looks at Corvus, his frown had faded into a flat stare.
Drezmir is taken aback by Robin's sudden flood of emotions, when Robin collapses into him he hesitates before patting him on the back. No one back at home had ever turned to him for comfort, gods, many of them wouldn't come within six feet of him much less touch him. Feeling extremely awkward, he looks to Gilded and then Kocino for guidance.
He nods at Robin's words, knowing exactly what he meant. Hesitantly, he says in what he hopes is a comforting tone, "Thank you. Rest assured that whatever comes of this battle, we will do what is right and necessary. Whatever the outcome, your sister and the others who fell to the hand of this evil will be avenged. We will restore peace Glanzing winds, and give peace to their souls."
When Robin finally regains his composure, Drezmir takes a step backwards and nods, "Yes, high time indeed." He looks to Corvus, "Perhaps you and I can compare notes on the ritual? I'm wondering if we can combine whatever we gleaned from the three languages if we could piece together a little more of the puzzle."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Robin gives Drezmir a grin after the moment they had shared.
"I won't forget what happened to her.. I can't say it'll all be fine in one day but.. I'm willing to start.. To start making a change."
Robin looks to Kocino as he pulls out a lockpick
"I can certainly try yes?"
Robin presse's his ear against the door to listen for a moment.
Perception
11
He had begun to fiddle with the lock afterwards for a bit.
9
OOC Corvus and Drezmir will compare notes in private messages so if any party members wanna know they'll have to ask them when that is done. It will be implied they compared notes before heading out.
The lockpick snaps as he curses under his breath. Though he is able to hear through the door he looks back to the group.
"There is at least a dozen guards behind this door (Door to room 5) and they seem prepared to ambush Gwen and her men in case they reach this far as a precaution."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
When Robin wonders which one is Vex, Vex walks forward and says: “I am Vex, Robin. And Corvus is right. I may be a murderer seeking atonement, but we are extremely similar. You have murdered a few people, and I have murdered a few hundred people. You have robbed places, so have I. You are seeking atonement, and your meanings for doing this is justified, that is the same with me. We helped the rest, Robin. And in that case, why does Gilded not dislike me as much as he dislikes you?” Vex says that before back to where he was. He was trying to remember what Gilded said before, did he just contradict one of his previous statements about Robin, or not? Anyways, when Robin struggles with the door, Vex grabs his crowbar and walks up. “I can help with that.” And he uses the crowbar to try and open the door. Athletics: 12
But it appears he’s already crowbarring the door open. Jess will dive towards the wall by the door, where people in the other room wouldn’t be able to see her. She will prepare a spell and say,
“Get away from the door! Someone get in front of me!”
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Jess wants to try to intuit Robin’s stance on the talk of either killing or not killing Simon. Can she tell which way he leans on that matter, based on his reactions etc?
Insight 13
(OOC: sorry for delay, weekend has been crazy busy.)
Gilded sits and listens to everyone talk about Simon and getting Robin's help, when Robin says something about a catch, he starts to move forward. Just before he speaks, he sees Robin wink at Jess and hears Drez talk about respecting him he can hold back no longer.
"What will you do when Simon is defeated, either by death or jail or banishment, or whatever? Who will run this city? You, are you qualified to be a true leader instead of just a trouble maker? What kind of justice do you follow? Do you even beleive in a system of laws and justice? "
Gilded will spit at the floor. "I have no respect for you, you are no better than the people you claim to oppose. Your a bully and a thug that thinks you can take from anyone you want and disperse it at your pleasure. Who made you to decide who should get to trade in this town and who shouldn't. "
He looks at his companions and continues.
"We neither need, nor do I want your help. When this is over, I will owe you nothing but a cell. You and your men are convicts and should be held accountable. I respect the people here with me, and because of that, I will do what they want, but you are not to be trusted, and I'll be keeping an eye on you.
"Who are you even helping, you obviously don't want to help Gwen, you wanted to assault and rob her just to prove a point to her brother? Your havent been elected by the people that I can tell. So I think you just work for yourself."
A cackling laugh is heard from Corvus's direction. He had been listening to the other's speak with Robin, but up to this point he had not thought it necessary for him to intervene. He doesn't move from what he is currently doing, but he speaks up.
"Gilded, think about what you just said. As far as I, or any of you know, Robin has not killed anyone other than Jet's men. Sure, he has robbed some folks, but what of it? He had a good reason. You say you don't want to work with him because he is a trouble maker, but look who else you have in your company. Vex, has admitted to being a murderer. You say you are fine with working with him because he want's to atone for his sins? Robin just said he isn't proud of what he's done, and on top of that said you could take his freedom."
The Aarakocra looks over his shoulder fixing the dragonborn with his red eye. "As far as I see it. He is on the same side as we are. Right now anyways. And as far as I know, you are not the one who gets to decide his punishment. Once this is over, he will answer to the town, and to Gwen."
His eye flicks to the others, "On top of that, I do not think you should get to make decisions for this entire company. Just because you don't like him, and you don't want his help, doesn't mean the rest of us can't accept it. I for one would prefer to face Simon with as much strength as possible. If Robin is willing to lend us his, then so be it."
He turns his attention back to what he is doing, and grumbles something to himself.
Robin blinks and almost half flinched when Jess had spoke to him. Had he expected her to slap him? Or was it something else? Still he had chuckled softly. He seemed even more relaxed than before upon hearing Jess's offer.
"No.. Gwen took a bad hit earlier but I was able to give her a healing potion. She let me sneak on ahead, I haven't been in much combat yet truly. I was hoping to avoid the guards to take on Simon myself but.. It may be tricky if he doesn't travel alone. Well.. Perhaps I shouldn't just call you beautiful, if I may be so rude to ask yet again.. What is you're name?"
For once Robin seemed interested to know a woman's name rather than to give her one of his usual pet names. Robin's smile slowly furls into a frown when Vex tells him of this.
"Than Simon dies, I mean.. Gwen asked me if I could save him. Though I gave her no such promise nor my word. If she wants to kill me after all of this is over? Than so be it. I'm just ready for this town to be free.. Free to thrive or sink on it's own terms.
Robin's expressions appear the least guarded toward Jess, she can tell he is most open around her for starters. Though he doesn't seem to guarded against Drezmir either. Robin seems sincere in his believes but Jess looks for his reactions when Simon is brought up. There is... Hatred toward this man.. Personal hatred. It seems Robin wants Simon dead at least this is how it appears to Jess. As Drezmir talks of sparing Simon he scoffs a bit in disbelief.
"First you spare the Jet brothers.. But Simon? That so called savior is.. He's a monster. I don't.. I don't care what he was before if he was ever a good person! I can't just let him.. I can't just... Let him go after everything he's done!"
Robin begins breath heavier but as Drezmir continues his opinion of Robin he glances to the ground eyes clouded with guilt and a heavy sigh.
"Look I.. I'm sorry I lost my cool okay but.. I appreciate you're words and you saying my men can be free but.. Asking me to let Simon go..? It's just... Too much."
Gilded comes forward in this moment of doubt that Robin feels. He takes a step back before taking another step forward to stand his ground listening to the dragonborn.
"Me..? A leader here? That was never my intent.. I'll be honest.. For the longest time I didn't trust Gwen. I never thought she'd fight against her brother and so once upon a time.. Her and me had fought before. She had a chance to kill me but she didn't.. I learned that day she isn't the monster her brother was.. But it wasn't until you all brought her with the Jet brothers. She risked her life.. For me and my men.. Strangers. Hell you lot did too fighting out in that field.. That's why I shot at the brothers. I figured either Gwen.. Or one of you would take charge when this was all over. Hell.. I might not even live through this. Either by Simon or vengeance from Gwen I'm not sure I'll live through tomorrow either way. Hm? Do I believe in the laws of justice? I suppose it depends. If they support monsters like Simon? If innocent people are hurt? Than no I would not chain myself to such suffering but.. If they are noble and just laws than yes I would abide by them."
Robin looks as Gilded spits at the floor offering nothing but a simple shrug his guard slowly beginning to raise. Not his weapon but his muscles and tensions are rather high at this moment.
"I didn't do it for you're or anyone else's respect. I did it to protect those I love in this town. Even if I burn in the hells for what I've done.. I'd do it all again if it eases the pain of others. I understand robbing outsiders wasn't right, but many outsiders like the Jet brothers came here to take advantage of our weakness. They robbed,stole,killed and raped through here. I'll admit Simon drove out many of them but they kept coming.. And coming and so I took a stand. I admit.. I can't know every merchant we robbed was a cruel outsider. But they came from the capital.. They had food and money and comfort my people? They did not. I didn't kill any of them, unless they drew blood first."
Robin looks at Gilded with a strong look when he brings his men to it.
"I'll accept you're rage, you're cell and whatever vengeance you believe I deserve. If you do not wish my help I will be off.. However if you so much as raise a single hand to my men and their lives I will not stand aside. That is all I have to say, they deserve to live normal lives.. After all they've lost and fought and bled for. I won't let you take their lives away. Who do I work for? What? Do I sign in application to do the right thing? Is that it? The only election I ever had was the people under me.. Asking me to lead. I'll admit.. Once upon a time I thought Gwen was no better than Simon. I spent so much time distrusting her.. Even after she spared me. I can admit I was wrong about her. When you guys entered the town I thought you were self righteous adventurers. I thought you'd take a few quest shake hands with Gwen and Simon. Take some money, maybe steal from the shops like others who have taken jobs here before and than go to the next town. Like we were nothing.. But I was wrong, well maybe I wasn't wrong about one of you being self righteous anyway."
Robin says glaring back to Gilded a pointed stare that lasted until Corvus had stepped in. Or rather a laughter was heard from Corvus? This laugh seems to throw Robin off even more than Gilded's little speech. Though as Corvus speaks Robin begins to calm down a bit his expression slowly losing it's anger. Robin looks to the group curious which one of these was this "Vex."
"I see.. Well to whoever here is Vex.. It isn't an easy road.. And it may even lead to you're death by a knight.. Or a paladin seeking justice. But I hope you find that atonement and that peace.
Robin looks to Corvus blinking with surprise and shock.
"I'll be honest.. I expected more of you to condemn me. Well.. If the majority of you still wish to team up than I won't let one opinion stop me. I'm not as childish as to let a single person stop me from doing the tactical thing. Simon is sure to have guards and I may not be strong enough to do this alone.. No I was going to rely on stealth for a reason. I know I'm not strong enough alone.. So I would work with you."
At the mention of Gwen, Drez turns his attention back to Robin. He is glad that she is alright, but what is she doing now? Is she planning on helping them with Simon? It would be good to have her there...unless...unless things went bad.
Drezmir's gut clenches at Gilded's show of hostility. He knew the paladin's opinions, but he hadn't expected...well he honestly hadn't known what to expect. None of them had expected to find Robin here, so the issue before had only been with the men who'd followed him. Now, Gilded was facing the leader himself, so perhaps his reaction was only natural. Still, he had to stand by his own judgement. In his eyes, Robin was no different from them. He was willing to draw blood to fight for the people he loves. Had they not done the same thing?
However, he could not allow Robin to simply take the life of Simon. Great Fulgur, sometimes he felt like a monster himself. It wouldn't be fair to condemn Simon for becoming one as well, especially not if he'd had the same intentions as Robin--to protect Glanzing Winds.
"I will say this again. Our mission here is not to kill Simon. We need to at least give him a chance before we take his life. For his sake and for Gwen's." Drezmir crosses his arms, "It is clear that something has happened to make you hate him so much. I am sorry for whatever he did, but that doesn't change my opinion. I agree with Corvus that your help would be much appreciated, but not if you are here for vengeance."
He sighs, and unconsciously rubs his hands over the scars on his arms. He continues, his voice lower then before, "We all have our own monsters. I know that better then most. Please, I have to try and save him. If I fail, then...then we can end it. I just have to try."
When Corvus tells him what he found out about the ritual, he frowns. "Either this is worse then I thought, or Simon was not the one who..." He glances at Robin before continuing. "Or he was not the one who underwent the ritual. I suppose we will find out when the time comes."
Corvus stands up and walks over to the group. He addresses Robin.
"You have a goal, and you will not let anyone or anything stand in your way in order to achieve it." He doesn't have a particularly kind tone when he says this, but it is not threatening either. "I for one, understand this completely."
He turns to Drezmir, "I may have been able to scavenge some information from the inscriptions. I may not be able to speak Infernal, but I have studied it enough to pick out a few words. Enough to have found that whoever underwent this ritual, no longer has his memories. Whoever conducted the ritual purposefully fractured them."
Jess gives Robin a smile as she approaches him. She will put her hand on his arm as a gesture of friendliness, to show that they are allies. Her skin gleams with natural moisture, making it sparkle somewhat in this light. Her hair has the appearance of a slow-flowing waterfall down her temples and neck. She makes her eyes big and holds eye contact with Robin as she speaks:
"My name is Jess, and I believe you. And as I said before, our prime directive is to deal with Simon, and all other considerations are secondary in nature. Right now we're not even sure if Simon is an evil mastermind or more of a subjugated puppet to some greater evil. But our mission is to get to the bottom of it, and end it, one way or another. All this talk of justice in Glazing Winds is just secondary details. We can't cross those bridges until we come to them, because we're not even sure what the outcome against Simon will be yet. I say we spare ourselves the headaches of thinking of what might be, finish our prime directive, and then we will see where all the pieces fall. And Robin, we would be grateful for your help. Gwen has warned us that he is a formidable foe, and your clever aim with a bow will be helpful."
Robin looks to Drezmir and it's clear.. He doesn't see eye to eye with him on this. It isn't hate or distrust in his eyes. He takes a breath again.
"I can't forgive him.. Not after what he's taken from me. He.. He sacrificed my sister. She had shown a talent for magical ability and.. One of the first rituals was to take her.. Her own power and add it to his collection! So what?! Gwen and him can live happily ever after?! She wasn't the only one damn it! He took them all! Never! I'll never forgive him! He's.. Taken everything from gods damn it.. I won't just let him go so he can play the happy big brother. That power he defended this town with? Stolen.."
Robin took his hand to his chest as he began to breath heavier tears had began to invade his face. Each breath was clearly harder to take than the last. Drezmir had finished his speech reflective of the scars of his past. Asking for a single chance to reach out to him.
Corvus looks at Robin when he tells he understands his quest for revenge. He grips his fist thinking about his past.. About everything before.
"You.. Understand? Truly?"
OOC
As silly as it is to ask in such a dramatic moment can Drezmir roll for persuasion?
Also someone can give him advantage if they ask Robin alongside him
If Drezmir and Corvus share information together. There are certain half phrases that will come together. Possibly gaining new information or at the very least gathering the bigger picture.
Oh I posted just as Todd was whoops. Let me make another post real fast
Jess had placed a hand on Robin, moisture on his own face from the tears before. She had offered a smile to him, up to this point Jess had let her allies handle many social interactions. Perhaps she hadn't seen herself as charismatic or maybe others hadn't seen her in that light. She had told herself her arguments weren't compelling and some thugs had even taken the time to comment on her not being.. Attractive. However in Robin's eyes? In this moment? No one could be more more charismatic and her touch had served to ease the pain if only a bit. He had wiped his face turning around embarrassed by his display. He was Robin! Dashing rogue of Glazing Wind yes? Here he was crying like a newborn in front of a beautiful woman. Made for a poor story yes? With his back turned he sniffled one last time before speaking in a calm and low voice.
"It's a pleasure to meet you Jess, truly."
Robin had heard her ask for his help even knowing his hatred for Simon.
"I can't lie.. I want to help Glazing Winds but.. I want vengeance for my family.. For the town and for everyone and everything he's taken. You're friend stated he can't fight alongside me if revenge is on my mind. Perhaps I should follow you're lead.. Cross that bridge? When we cross it yes? I do hope it doesn't turn to us crossing blades in the future."
(OOC: oof, Drez may have to reconsider his stance on this lol. But I'll still roll persuasion.)
Persuasion: 21...
LOL that's a nat 20 on persuasion! Man, I was just thinking how funny that would be. Lol, its come full circle. :)
Drezmir is shocked by this revelation. Simon had sunk as low as to sacrifice a fellow person! His opinion waver's for only a moment however. There is still hope that he was under some dark influence, that something else moved him to perform such evil acts. There is always hope for redemption. ...still. He looks to Robin, "I...I cannot pretend to understand the pain you've endured. I've never known any family outside the monastery were I was raised. I cannot fathom the pain it caused you to lose your own sister." He sighs, "Perhaps he is the monster you know him to be, but I must hold out hope that there is more to this story. Even if I am wrong, at least I can say I tried. Even...even if Simon no longer deserves that hope, Gwen does."
Corvus stares at Robin as he confesses what Simon has done. He isn't sure how he feels about it. Sympathy? Perhaps. A Connection? Yes, that is it.
"Oh I understand." He replies bitterly. "I understand more than you know." Then he looks back at Drezmir, expectantly.
Drezmir's words had rolled off effortlessly, the words were dripping with empathy and understanding. Not to condemn but of understanding. Robin turns around as he listens to Drezmir. Walking closer to Drezmir he looks at him.. Drezmir's expression and his tone? Robin couldn't hold anything back anymore. Drezmir's silver tongue had sent the man crying completely as he collapsed against the elf. Holding on to him as he began to weep.
"I-I.. Damn it.. You're right.. He may have stole Emily.. But if Gwen had a loving brother... I'd.. I'd be no.."
Though he can't finish the sentence Drezmir surely knows what he means to say. Holding on to what was realistically speaking? A stranger Robin had let out his pain and anguish. Taking his first steps.. To maybe letting his anger go. After a few moments of sobbing he looks to Corvus than back to Drezmir and nods.
"I will not take.. Take Simon's life into my own hands on my bow. And on the Emily's grave I swear this to you."
He draws his bow forward looking to Drezmir with determination even if his eyes were still misty red from his tears moments ago.
"Well.. It's high time we get going yes? I'm not sure where Robin is but I was attempting to unlock that door here. As well as listen through the door for any guards."
Robin had wiped his face yet again ready to push forward.
Corvus' normal frown deepens as Robin breaks down in tears. Up to this point he had some respect for the man. How could he give up revenge so easily? Does Drezmir have some sort of spell to charm people? Corvus thinks back to when they met Gwen. That encounter had taken a similar, yet far less dramatic, coarse.
The Aarakocra remains silent on this matter. By the time Robin looks at Corvus, his frown had faded into a flat stare.
Drezmir is taken aback by Robin's sudden flood of emotions, when Robin collapses into him he hesitates before patting him on the back. No one back at home had ever turned to him for comfort, gods, many of them wouldn't come within six feet of him much less touch him. Feeling extremely awkward, he looks to Gilded and then Kocino for guidance.
He nods at Robin's words, knowing exactly what he meant. Hesitantly, he says in what he hopes is a comforting tone, "Thank you. Rest assured that whatever comes of this battle, we will do what is right and necessary. Whatever the outcome, your sister and the others who fell to the hand of this evil will be avenged. We will restore peace Glanzing winds, and give peace to their souls."
When Robin finally regains his composure, Drezmir takes a step backwards and nods, "Yes, high time indeed." He looks to Corvus, "Perhaps you and I can compare notes on the ritual? I'm wondering if we can combine whatever we gleaned from the three languages if we could piece together a little more of the puzzle."
Corvus' gaze flicks from the bleary eyed man to Drezmir, "Yes, that seems to be the logical course of action."
Kocino watches the exchange with a curious look. “Yes, onward. So Robin, you can pick this lock?“
Robin gives Drezmir a grin after the moment they had shared.
"I won't forget what happened to her.. I can't say it'll all be fine in one day but.. I'm willing to start.. To start making a change."
Robin looks to Kocino as he pulls out a lockpick
"I can certainly try yes?"
Robin presse's his ear against the door to listen for a moment.
Perception
11
He had begun to fiddle with the lock afterwards for a bit.
9
OOC
Corvus and Drezmir will compare notes in private messages so if any party members wanna know they'll have to ask them when that is done. It will be implied they compared notes before heading out.
The lockpick snaps as he curses under his breath. Though he is able to hear through the door he looks back to the group.
"There is at least a dozen guards behind this door (Door to room 5) and they seem prepared to ambush Gwen and her men in case they reach this far as a precaution."
When Robin wonders which one is Vex, Vex walks forward and says: “I am Vex, Robin. And Corvus is right. I may be a murderer seeking atonement, but we are extremely similar. You have murdered a few people, and I have murdered a few hundred people. You have robbed places, so have I. You are seeking atonement, and your meanings for doing this is justified, that is the same with me. We helped the rest, Robin. And in that case, why does Gilded not dislike me as much as he dislikes you?” Vex says that before back to where he was. He was trying to remember what Gilded said before, did he just contradict one of his previous statements about Robin, or not? Anyways, when Robin struggles with the door, Vex grabs his crowbar and walks up. “I can help with that.” And he uses the crowbar to try and open the door. Athletics: 12
Jess says,
“Vex wait!”
But it appears he’s already crowbarring the door open. Jess will dive towards the wall by the door, where people in the other room wouldn’t be able to see her. She will prepare a spell and say,
“Get away from the door! Someone get in front of me!”