The bound survivors are escorted into Castle High Wind’s secured holding yard. Salt, exhaustion, and weeks of fear leave them barely coherent, while General Rovan, the Envoy, the Squire, and Dragon-Crest soldiers remain nearby.
the ranking survivor
Our captain was cruel, drunk, always belittling us. He drove us for weeks toward a hidden stash, a great cache of rice-gold. Greed was all we had left.
The survivor describes Ethrosise’s sudden judgment in broken phrases. The wreck’s sealed jars, route marks, and cargo ledgers support portions of the account, though much remains water-damaged.
the ranking survivor
Availia Con ships carry grain and metal along the southern sea route. Their weak post lies beyond the third marker reef, with keeps placed mid-route for shelter and storage.
General Rovan
We will compare every word against the cargo and charts. No one leaves this yard until the account is copied and secured.
The Dragon-Crest soldiers quietly examine the captives and faint magical traces on the seized goods. Their practiced attention suggests training meant to neutralize beings like Ethrosise, not ordinary guard duty. Far offshore, the serpent watches.
General Rovan
My king, Mirel has arrived and awaits presentation. The ranking survivor has given us a rival kingdom’s routes, weak post, and keeps, but his arrival may deserve your attention now.
✓ Quest Accepted
Expose the Dragon-Crest soldiers' true purpose