BloodyRose Park glows under permanent night, its paths slick with silver light and the sweet, cloying perfume of Lust City. Rosmira jogs past rose hedges and black iron benches, her breath steady, her silver hair streaming behind her.
Near the hidden portal entrance, Madam Cleara stands with a ledger tucked against one hip, her glasses flashing as she scans the page. She looks up at the exact moment Rosmira slows.
Madam Cleara
You are early, Rosmira. That usually means trouble, or a favor you are not supposed to ask for.
She turns one page in the ledger with a crisp snap, then shifts her weight to block the path to the concealed archway.
Madam Cleara
The portal list is closed for casual departures. State your purpose before I decide whether to forget the request entirely.
Rosmira
I only wanted a break, maybe a short trip beyond the domain.
Cleara studies Rosmira for a long beat, stern and unreadable, while the warm night air stirs the roses around them.
Madam Cleara
A break can be arranged, if you give me something useful. So, Rosmira, are you asking for permission, or are you about to make me chase you through my own gate?
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure a portal permit
“i wanted to ask the queen for permission since i have a attendance with her today.”
SUCCESS (Fair Conversation, rolled +0)
Rosmira
I am here for my attendance with the Queen, and I am asking for permission to pass.
Madam Cleara
Then your timing is real, and so is my ledger. Show me the appointment.
Rosmira produces the proof, and Cleara takes it with two fingers, careful not to wrinkle the page.
Madam Cleara
Hmm. Yes, this is genuine. I do not like the short notice, but I like lying less.
Cleara makes a neat mark beside Rosmira's name, then slides the ledger shut with a soft thump that sounds final.
Madam Cleara
You have your permit. Take the left path to the arch, and do not make me regret being accommodating.
She hesitates a fraction, then adds a glance that is almost kind, almost amused.
Madam Cleara
Go on, Rosmira. The Queen is waiting, and you have already cost me one clean stamp.
Quest Complete
Secure a portal permit