The library holds its breath. Parsley braces himself against the desk, eyes shut, while the polished cane lies within Lewis's reach.
Smewgy
"Gentlemen must learn that order is not maintained by wishes. Lift it, Lewis."
Friedrich Wilhelm von Preußen
"A report of failure will travel quickly. The prefects require proof of discipline, not sympathy."
Parsley
"Do what he says. Please. If you refuse, they will punish us both."
Smewgy's thin smile sharpens. Beyond the library windows, boys cross the quadrangle toward their duties, and the school’s entire machinery of obedience seems to narrow into this single cane.
Smewgy
"This is your examination, Lewis. Strike, and you become useful. Hesitate, and you become the next lesson."
The boy is liable to receive punishment for his lack of positive demeanour.
“I ask Friedrich to certify my discipline”
SUCCESS (Legendary Etiquette, rolled +0)
C. S. Lewis
Friedrich, certify that I have shown discipline.
Lewis turns from the cane to Friedrich, keeping his voice even and his posture exact. He asks for a witness whose approval carries weight in this room.
Friedrich Wilhelm von Preußen
I certify that Lewis has maintained order, obeyed instruction, and acted without hesitation. His discipline is beyond dispute.
Smewgy
A useful testimony. Very well, Lewis. Your examination is recorded as successful.
Smewgy takes the cane from the desk. Parsley is sent from the library to receive the consequence privately, after being sharply ordered to compose his demeanour and appear grateful.
Parsley
Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.
Friedrich Wilhelm von Preußen
You chose the sound course, Lewis. A disciplined man secures his position before he attempts anything more ambitious.
✓ Quest Accepted
Leave the library after the examination
“I thank Friedrich and follow Parsley out into the corridor.”
C. S. Lewis
Thank you, Friedrich. Your testimony was of service.
Friedrich Wilhelm von Preußen
Naturally. A correct record is worth more than an impulsive gesture. Remember that.
Lewis leaves the library and follows Parsley into the corridor. Behind them, the door closes on the ledger, the cane, and Smewgy’s satisfied examination.
Parsley walks quickly but keeps his face composed, forcing a brightness into his expression whenever footsteps approach. The school permits no visible misery from its younger boys.
Parsley
Thank you for coming out with me, Lewis. I shall be all right if I keep moving.
Lewis remains beside him as they pass beneath the dark arches. Their footsteps blend with the distant calls from the quadrangle, and the corridor carries them onward without interruption.
Quest Complete
Leave the library after the examination