Talimaryl steps into the rune-light, his black-and-gold scales catching the summit glare. He sends calm across the ledge, then angles one talon toward the glowing path-line carved into the stone.
Talimaryl
We do not bury a waking mountain. We follow the source and learn what stirs it.
Below them, Rukalog braces on the lower shelf, still alive, still watching. Jorren turns his head toward Isaru, waiting for a sign before he moves.
Jorren
If Isaru permits it, I will stand with him. If not, I hold.
Isaru
The path-line points down into the peak.
The mountain answers with a low vibration through stone and claw. The rune-line brightens, then forks, one branch toward the ledge where Rukalog clings, the other descending into darkness.
Rukalog Coalrun
Pick now, then. Investigate, or I carry this story out myself.
Talimaryl does not flinch. He keeps his gaze on Isaru, patient as a blade held still.
✓ Quest Accepted
Accept Talimaryl's counsel on the mountain's unrest
“If the kobold wants to go, let him. My place is here at the anchor.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled -2)
Isaru stays at the anchor and lets the lower shelf keep its story. The mountain hums through his claws, and the forked rune-line steadies under his weight.
Talimaryl
Then I counsel this, keep the summit, and let the depth be named before it is entered.
Talimaryl shifts one step closer, not touching Isaru, but aligning his gaze with the descending branch. The glow from the stone throws hard light across his jaw.
Rukalog Coalrun
Fine. I am not waiting all night on your mountain.
Below, Rukalog hooks a claw into the rock and begins edging away along the lower ledge. A spray of grit slides from under him, sharp enough to scatter across the broken drop.
Jorren does not move from the edge. He watches the kobold depart, then returns his attention to Isaru, silent and ready.
Talimaryl
You hold the anchor, then. I see the cost already.
Quest Complete
Accept Talimaryl's counsel on the mountain's unrest