>>5889353“I’m not going to die here!” Erwin shrieks. “I-if any one of you even tries to lay a hand on me…I’ll do it!”
The men within the mine recoil and take several steps back, seemingly unsure of whether to retreat further into the mine or to risk their luck and move passed Erwin.
>“Are you Erwin?”Having not noticed you, the mage yelps and jumps several inches into the air. Turning around, he points an accusatory finger towards you. “S-stay back! I’m warning you! I’ll do it!”
You weren’t entirely sure what “it” was, but you could sense that he was ready to use some sort of magic. If the way those miners were staring at the barrels was any indication, you had a grim feeling that you might be seeing a demonstration of this blasting powder for yourself.
>“…Erwin.” You hold your hands out in a gesture of peace. “I mean you no harm. Let’s not do anything too hasty...I can’t imagine you want to… explode now, no?”“Of course not!” The mage sobs. “B-but it’s better than being torn to shreds by you or these…savages! I won’t let them torture me for their sick pleasure! I’ll die by my own hands first!”
>“Don’t do anything foolish!” You plead. “I hear you’re the one who invented this blasting powder! I came here to ask for your help!”“L-liar!” Erwin shouts. “You’re going to punish me! I know who you are, Witch! You’re a demon! You’ll skin me alive then boil me in your cauldron! Going with you is a fate worse than death! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!”
>A): “I did not come here to harm you. I am to be the Countess of Rusalka, and I promise that you’ll be fully protected under my watch.” (CHA+LCK Roll: 70% chance to succeed)>B): Without making any sudden movements, toss the man your bag of gold and offer him employment. (-5000g)>C): Subtly signal to Ava to shoot Erwin. 