Several quiet days pass above the clouds. On the Obsidian Tower’s balcony, morning wind moves freely around Delfarius as he meditates, fully healed and whole.
Morghain stands nearby without interrupting. She is a short adult woman with dark hair glowing blue in the sunlight, her bright violet eyes fixed calmly upon him.
The Tower remains peaceful beneath them. Far below, cloudbanks shine like a pale sea, while the balcony stones hold the steady warmth of restored magic.
Delfarius opens his eyes and finds Morghain watching. His knowing smirk meets her luminous gaze, and neither the wind nor the silence demands anything from him.
Morghain
You are awake. I have no request waiting for you, Delfarius. I only wished to be present when you returned fully to yourself.
Morghain’s hands remain loosely folded before her. Violet light glimmers faintly around her fingers, restrained and peaceful, carrying no spell beyond the quiet assurance of her presence.
Morghain
If you want silence, I will share it. If you want to speak, I am listening.
“I rise from my meditations. "Yes, I have been up for a few moments...well about 45 minutes now give or take." I walk closer to her and look down at her. She is cute, I could lift her over my shoulder. "Hmm. You? Have you been staying here in my tower while I was, healing?"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Delfarius rises from meditation, fully healed, and crosses the balcony toward Morghain. The morning wind lifts his dark red hair as he looks down at her.
Delfarius
Yes, I have been up for a few moments... well, about forty-five minutes now, give or take. Hmm. You? Have you been staying here in my tower while I was healing?
Morghain tilts her luminous face up to him. Her dark hair glows blue in the sunlight, and her violet eyes remain calm beneath his scrutiny.
Morghain
I have. I stayed in the observatory and infirmary, watched the wards, and spoke with the Tower when it permitted conversation.
Morghain
I did not command anything, and I did not appoint myself guardian of your household. But I learned its rhythms, and that knowledge is now a favor you owe me.
She steps nearer without touching him, making the cost plain rather than dressing it as devotion. Violet light glimmers around her folded hands, restrained and patient.
Morghain
You may decide whether I remain after this conversation. For now, I am here because you asked nothing of me, and I chose to stay.
✓ Quest Accepted
Establish a consensual arrangement with Morghain
“I lean into her face and smirk charmingly, "Hmm I owe you a favor? Intriguing." I look her deep in her eyes. "So we are even then?" I have a small sparkle in my eyes as I look at her.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -1)
Delfarius leans close, his dark red hair stirring in the wind. A small sparkle catches in his icy eyes as his smirk turns deliberately charming.
Delfarius
Hmm, I owe you a favor? Intriguing. So we are even then?
Morghain holds his gaze without retreating. Her violet eyes brighten, and the restrained magic around her fingers loosens into a quiet, amused shimmer.
Morghain
Yes. We are even, Delfarius. I stayed by choice, and you acknowledge what that choice was worth.
Morghain
The favor is no chain, nor does it grant me authority here. It is simply a debt between equals, to be called upon only when I ask.
The Tower’s balcony stones warm beneath them, accepting the exchange without binding it. Morghain remains close, patient and self-possessed, while the morning wind carries the last tension away.
Quest Complete
Establish a consensual arrangement with Morghain
“i gesture inward towards my bedchambers which is the room where my balcony is off of. "You had conversations with my tower, Oh I do hope the tower told you my best stories."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +2)
Delfarius
You had conversations with my tower? Oh, I do hope it told you my best stories.
Delfarius gestures inward toward the bedchambers, the balcony doors standing open behind him. The Tower’s dark script stirs along the threshold, recognizing Morghain’s invitation without binding her.
Morghain
It told me several. Most involved you ignoring sensible limits, surviving consequences, and insisting the outcome had been your intention all along.
Morghain steps inside at his invitation, her blue-lit hair catching the room’s shadow. Violet sparks drift from her fingers and fade harmlessly against the black stone.
Morghain
The Tower was selective, however. It spoke of your victories with obedient pride, but kept your gentlest stories behind several very firm doors.
Morghain
He invites me inward while making a joke of being known. I can answer the invitation without mistaking it for surrender.
Morghain
If you want the best stories, you may have to ask the Tower yourself. It appears to enjoy making you work for praise.
“"I know my best stories," I give a small laugh. "I lived them so." I go over to in front of a vanity and sit down. I look in the mirror back at Morghain. "I may even tell you them some day if you would like."”
Delfarius
I know my best stories. I lived them so. I may even tell you them some day, if you would like.
Delfarius gives a small laugh and crosses to the vanity. He sits before the mirror, dark red hair falling around his shoulders, and regards Morghain through the reflection.
Morghain
I would like that. Not because the Tower praised them, but because they are yours to tell, in your own time.
Morghain remains standing behind him, her blue-lit hair and violet eyes reflected beside his pale gaze. She does not touch the vanity or claim the room.
Morghain
You need not offer them today. A promise of someday is enough, if that is what you choose to give.
The mirror holds them together in quiet balance: Delfarius seated before his own reflection, Morghain present behind him, and the Tower listening without adding its voice.
“A knock is on the door and Nadron comes in with a coffee and looks at me adoration like he does. Faelwen follows and notices me at the vanity and comes to brush my hair again. I look up to Morghain. "What are you going to intend to do now, are you staying here or going out to find a place, a world of your own?"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -1)
A gentle knock interrupts the quiet mirror scene. Nadron enters carrying fresh coffee, his expression softening into open adoration when he sees Delfarius, while Faelwen follows with the hairbrush.
Nadron
Good morning. I brought this before anyone else could claim the privilege.
Faelwen approaches the vanity and lifts the brush through Delfarius’s dark red waves, careful and practiced. Nadron sets the coffee within easy reach, still watching him fondly.
Delfarius
What are you going to intend to do now? Are you staying here, or going out to find a place, a world of your own?
Morghain
I will stay for now, if you will have me. Not as your steward, nor as an authority over this Tower, but as myself, choosing to remain.
Morghain
In time, I may seek a place of my own. I will tell you before I go, and I will return only when I choose. For now, this quiet feels worth keeping.
The Tower’s script remains still, accepting neither claim nor chain. Faelwen continues brushing, Nadron stands beside the coffee, and Morghain meets Delfarius’s reflection with calm certainty.
“I go to reach for my coffee and Nadron presents it and leans down to me and tells me he was thinking of making blueberry muffins, and wants to know whether I would like that. I answer him if I would or not and Faelwen continues to brush my hair. "Perhaps, Morghain we could go and have an afternoon together to let you see more of my little place here. There is a delightful mountain top with the best views and a charming air elemental that calls it home."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
Yes, blueberry muffins would be lovely. And perhaps, Morghain, we could spend the afternoon exploring more of my little place.
Nadron places the coffee into Delfarius’s reaching hand, then leans close with an affectionate smile. Faelwen continues drawing the brush through his dark red waves.
Nadron
Then blueberry muffins it is. I will make enough for everyone, though yours will be brought here first.
Morghain
A mountain top, the best views, and an air elemental? Yes, I would like to see it. I will come with you.
Delfarius
The mountain is delightful, and its resident spirit is charming. You may meet Zephyra there, if she is in a welcoming mood.
Morghain’s violet eyes brighten with genuine curiosity. Beyond the open balcony, the Tower’s distant routes stir toward Handesomest Peak, while the morning remains peaceful.
Faelwen
There. Your hair is properly settled. You may show Morghain the mountain without looking as though you fought the wind itself.
✓ Quest Accepted
Show Morghain Handesomest Peak and Zephyra
“I reach up and give Faelwen a small kiss. "Hmm after breakfast then." I rise up and Nadron rushes off to make the muffins. I look over to Morghain and her playing with the magic in her hands, "Hmm you just do that, don't you. Like a fidget toy?" I give a soft chuckle.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +3)
Delfarius reaches up and gives Faelwen a small kiss, then rises from the vanity with his coffee still warm in hand.
Delfarius
Hmm, after breakfast then.
Nadron
Blueberry muffins, immediately. I will have them ready before the coffee cools.
Nadron hurries toward the kitchen, openly delighted to have a task. Faelwen lowers the brush and smiles softly, watching him go.
Delfarius
Hmm, you just do that, don't you? Like a fidget toy?
Morghain
Something like that. It helps me listen to magic without asking it to perform. Your Tower has been whispering about a clear route to Handesomest Peak.
The violet sparks between Morghain’s fingers arrange themselves into a tiny, shifting mountain path. It reveals a calm passage through the upper winds, free of storms and hidden wards.
“I place my hand gently over Morghain's hands with a warm and charming smirk. "Hmm yes I know the way, but all things in good time." I walk unhurried to the breakfast nook and offer a chair to Morghain first before sitting down. "Maybe we could go shopping as well, if that interests you, afterwards?" I smirk. "Not sure what you would like to do on a date." My smirk widens at the word towards her. If she would like to consider this a date or if it is just us sightseeing as friends she will let me know.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Delfarius
Hmm, yes, I know the way, but all things in good time.
Delfarius lays his hand gently over Morghain’s, wearing a warm, charming smirk. He walks unhurriedly to the breakfast nook and offers her the first chair before taking his own.
Delfarius
Maybe we could go shopping as well, if that interests you, afterwards? I am not sure what you would like to do on a date.
Morghain studies him across the table, violet sparks gathering briefly above her folded hands. Her expression remains calm, but genuine amusement touches her luminous eyes.
Morghain
If you are asking whether I would like this to be a date, then yes. I would. Sightseeing can remain our respectable cover if you lose your nerve.
Nadron returns with a steaming basket of blueberry muffins and pauses at the declaration. He sets them down with a delighted flourish, while Faelwen pours fresh coffee.
Morghain
But understand the cost of asking plainly: you owe me an afternoon chosen with care, not merely a route through your wonders. I will notice if you treat it as an obligation.
“I lean in closer towards her over the table and smirk charmingly, "I never loose my nerves, even when I probably have every logical reason to." Faelwen asks Morghain if she prefers cream or sugar in her drink and goes to get it for her if she does. Nadron watches as I take a bite of the fresh muffins watching to see if I enjoy them. I let him know how I like them or if they are missing something.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
I never lose my nerves, even when I probably have every logical reason to.
Delfarius leans closer across the table, his charming smirk held beneath Morghain’s luminous gaze. The moment remains playful, deliberate, and entirely his own.
Morghain
Then I shall watch carefully for the rare occasion when your confidence becomes recklessness. For now, I am enjoying the view.
Faelwen
Morghain, do you prefer cream or sugar in your drink?
Morghain
A little cream, please. Thank you, Faelwen.
Faelwen smiles demurely and rises to fetch the cream. Delfarius takes one of Nadron’s fresh blueberry muffins, bites into it, and considers the warm sweetness.
Delfarius
It is excellent, Nadron. The berries are generous, the crumb is soft, and nothing is missing.
“Nadron beams with the praise and I give him a kiss on his lips. He lets me know he has a surprise planned for lunch, but he can change it and prepare a picnic for us to take with us if we wish instead. I smirk at him then turn to Morghain and as her if she would prefer a picnic or if she wanted to go out for a meal at a restaurants. She lets me know and Nadron responds accordingly to what Morghain said.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +2)
Nadron beams at the praise. Delfarius leans across the table and kisses him on the lips, while Faelwen returns with cream and pauses, smiling at their affection.
Nadron
I have a surprise planned for lunch. But I can change it and prepare a picnic for us to take wherever we please.
Delfarius smirks, then turns toward Morghain. Nadron waits brightly, ready to abandon his secret arrangement without complaint if she prefers the open air.
Delfarius
Would you prefer a picnic, Morghain, or would you rather go out for a meal at a restaurant?
Morghain
A picnic sounds lovely. I would rather see where you choose to take me than sit beneath another noble roof.
Nadron
Then a picnic it is. I can pack the meal, fresh fruit, chilled wine, and enough blueberry pastries to satisfy everyone before we explore the mountain.
Nadron gathers the basket with renewed enthusiasm, while Faelwen begins selecting cups and cloth. Morghain’s violet eyes brighten as the afternoon’s chosen outing takes shape.
“I lean in to Nadron and tell him to reach in the black Ice box and grab the sparkling fruit juice for me because he knows I do not drink, and to pack the olives in the oils and the cheeses that I got that I found quite tasty and some small finger sandwiches...I laugh then tell him to pack more than just muffins for me and Morghain, I say this privately to him and let him know it is a date for just me and her. He understands and goes to get it prepared. Faelwen asks Morghain if she needs anything else and if she does not she excuses her self and gives me a small respectful bow and leaves.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Delfarius
Reach into the black ice box and grab the sparkling fruit juice. You know I do not drink. Pack the olives in oil, the cheeses I liked, and small finger sandwiches.
Delfarius
And more than muffins for me and Morghain. I laugh, then tell him privately that this is a date for just her and me.
Nadron’s bright expression briefly falters at the private arrangement, but he bows with eager understanding. He retrieves the requested provisions from the ice box and household stores, finding sealed olives and several fine cheeses for the basket.
Nadron
Of course. A proper picnic, prepared exactly as you prefer. I will not intrude, though I will expect a report on whether the mountain deserved such effort.
He carries the basket toward the kitchen, accepting the boundary without protest, though the favor costs Delfarius a small piece of Nadron’s usual closeness. Faelwen sets the cream beside Morghain’s cup.
Faelwen
Morghain, do you need anything else before we leave you to prepare? More cream, perhaps, or something warm for the journey?
Morghain
Nothing else, thank you. The picnic is generous, and I am content to let Nadron finish it.
Faelwen gives Delfarius a small respectful bow, then offers Morghain the same courtesy before departing toward the adjoining rooms. Morghain watches her go, thoughtful but untroubled, while Nadron begins arranging the private meal.
“I sigh a bit as Nadron goes off and prepares the picnic in the kitchen for us and look over to Morghain. "I think I upset Nadron that he was not going with us. I am going to have to give him some extra attentions later." I look over to her and laugh softly. "He would not have been able to survive at the heights alone."”
SUCCESS (Fair Social interaction, rolled -3)
Delfarius
I think I upset Nadron that he was not going with us. I will have to give him some extra attention later. He would not survive those heights alone.
Morghain watches Nadron disappear toward the kitchen, then glances back to Delfarius. Her amused expression softens, though the cost of his choice remains visible.
Morghain
You did upset him, yes. He accepted the boundary because he trusts you, but he will remember being excluded from a date he helped prepare.
From the kitchen comes the muted clatter of baskets and crockery. Nadron’s movements stay purposeful, but his earlier brightness has not returned.
Morghain
Extra attention may mend that, if you offer it freely rather than treating it as payment. And for the record, I would not survive those heights alone either.
Nadron
The sandwiches are nearly ready. I am not sulking, I assure you. I am merely deciding which pastry deserves to accompany your report afterward.
Morghain’s violet eyes brighten with quiet amusement as Nadron calls from the kitchen. The picnic continues taking shape, while his wounded pride becomes a favor waiting to be answered.
“"Interesting, you have a weakness to extreme heights?" I say looking over to Morghain.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Perception, rolled +1)
Delfarius
Interesting, you have a weakness to extreme heights?
Morghain turns fully toward him, one brow lifting as violet light gathers faintly around her fingers. From the kitchen, Nadron pauses over the picnic basket to listen.
Morghain
A weakness, precisely? No. Height does not diminish my power. But extreme heights leave very little room for error, and I prefer solid ground when I am alone.
Her gaze shifts briefly toward the distant cloud sea beyond the balcony. The admission is practical rather than embarrassed, offered without surrendering any dignity.
Morghain
With Zephyra guiding the winds and you beside me, I can manage it. I simply do not confuse surviving a danger with enjoying it.
Nadron
That makes two of you, then. I prefer my adventures at ground level, where pastries are less likely to acquire wings.
Morghain’s mouth curves with quiet amusement. The Tower’s route toward Handesomest Peak remains open, while Nadron resumes packing the picnic with exaggerated care.
“I lean down to Morghain and say to her softly "Excuse me for a moment." I walk into the kitchen to see Nadron trying to quickly look like he was not eaves dropping on us. I walk up to him and give him a deep passionate kiss in the privacy of the kitchen. "You are my delightful pet, Nadron. If you want I can get you something while we are out. A rare ingredient or something else if you wish, but this jealousy is not becoming of a young lord."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +1)
Delfarius
Excuse me for a moment.
Delfarius leaves Morghain at the table and enters the kitchen. Nadron abruptly straightens beside the picnic basket, attempting to look occupied rather than caught listening.
Delfarius closes the distance and kisses Nadron deeply, privately, until the young lord’s startled posture softens and his hands settle against Delfarius’s clothes.
Delfarius
You are my delightful pet, Nadron. If you want, I can get you something while we are out, a rare ingredient or something else. But this jealousy is not becoming of a young lord.
Nadron
I know. I was jealous, and poorly disguised besides. I do not want to spoil your date, beloved. A rare saffron would be wonderful, if you truly mean to bring me a gift.
His embarrassment gives way to a bright, relieved smile. He touches Delfarius’s sleeve, accepting the affection and the offered gift without pressing for more.
Nadron
I will finish the sandwiches and behave like a young lord with excellent manners. Though I reserve the right to expect an entertaining report afterward.
“"Hmm if I play my part well maybe we can share together in that report. But." I look back to the breakfast nook. "I think I do not want to just bed this one. You understand?" She is quite delightful to talk to and she is adorable without being insufferable.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -1)
Delfarius
Hmm, if I play my part well, perhaps we can share in that report. But I do not want to simply bed Morghain. You understand?
Delfarius glances toward the breakfast nook, then keeps his voice low in the kitchen. Nadron’s expression turns attentive, the picnic basket forgotten between them.
Nadron
I understand, beloved. She delights you as a person, not merely as someone you desire.
Nadron sets down the sandwich he is holding and faces Delfarius fully. His earlier jealousy gives way to thoughtful acceptance, though a trace of mischief remains in his eyes.
Nadron
Then let the date be a date. Learn what she enjoys, let her learn you, and do not turn a charming conversation into a conquest just because you can.
Nadron
I will behave beautifully and keep your secret properly. Though if she becomes part of your report, I expect the entertaining details afterward.
“I lean in closer to this charming mortal man and smirk. "Well if I play my cards well we might have to share, and she might not be too offended by it...but I will not presume." I chuckle softly to him to make sure no one else overhears.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
Well, if I play my cards well, we might have to share, and she might not be too offended by it. But I will not presume.
Delfarius leans closer, smirking, and lowers his voice until the words remain private between them. His soft chuckle warms the narrow kitchen space.
Nadron
Oh, beloved, that is a much better proposal than conquest. You are offering possibility, not deciding for either of you.
Nadron’s teasing smile returns. He steadies one hand on the picnic basket and regards Delfarius with bright, conspiratorial approval.
Nadron
I approve. Let Morghain choose whether she wants you, me, or both of us. If she declines, you will accept it gracefully, and I will still give you your report.
From the breakfast nook, Morghain’s violet sparks briefly shimmer against the doorway. She has not heard the words, but the Tower’s quiet hush suggests the privacy remains intact.
Nadron
Now finish charming me and take her somewhere beautiful. The mountain can wait for no one, but your manners should arrive before you do.
“I look down at him and trace my finger down his bare chest. "Hmm. saffron...and a though report that I will personally give you after the fact in my bedchambers with few clothes between the two of us."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius looks down at Nadron and traces one finger slowly along his bare chest, his smirk sharpening as the kitchen’s warm silence gathers around them.
Delfarius
Hmm. Saffron... and a thorough report that I will personally give you afterward in my bedchambers, with few clothes between us.
Nadron’s breath catches, then his delighted grin returns. He sets the sandwich aside and leans into the touch, openly reassured by the promise.
Nadron
Saffron, certainly. And I will expect this thorough report to be delivered with the same personal attention you have just promised.
He straightens the picnic cloth with renewed purpose, though his bright eyes remain fixed on Delfarius. The earlier jealousy has vanished beneath eager anticipation.
Nadron
I will prepare the finest meal in the Tower, then behave impeccably while you court Morghain. Afterward, beloved, I shall collect what you owe me.
From the adjoining room, Morghain’s violet sparks drift briefly across the doorway. The Tower keeps the kitchen private, while Nadron finishes the basket with conspicuous enthusiasm.
“I give him a deep passionate kiss that takes his breath and flusters him a bit more. "I should go back in there then." I say nibbling on his lower lip a bit before I let it go and head back to the breakfast nook.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +1)
Delfarius draws Nadron into a deep, passionate kiss. Nadron’s breath catches beneath it, his composure dissolving into startled, delighted fluster as the kitchen warmth gathers around them.
Delfarius
I should go back in there then.
Delfarius nibbles Nadron’s lower lip before releasing him, then turns toward the breakfast nook. Nadron remains braced against the counter, visibly trying to remember how breathing works.
Nadron
Yes, beloved. Go be charming. I will finish the picnic before you return, though you have made concentrating considerably more difficult.
Delfarius reenters the nook with his smirk intact. Morghain lifts one violet brow, her amused gaze moving from him to the kitchen doorway where Nadron hurriedly resumes arranging the basket.
Morghain
That was a remarkably long moment for someone who claimed he should return immediately. Shall I assume the kitchen required diplomatic attention?
Behind them, Nadron places the sparkling fruit juice beside the sandwiches and exhales a shaky laugh, while the Tower’s quiet script seems content to keep their private arrangement private.
“"Yes it needed some, gentle uh maneuvers. yes." I smile charming at her. I lean in closer to her over the table. "So tell me, what else do you prefer besides having two feet on terra firma."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
Yes, it needed some gentle maneuvers. So tell me, what else do you prefer besides having two feet on terra firma?
Delfarius smiles charmingly and leans across the table. Morghain meets his gaze without retreating, violet light stirring softly around her fingers.
Morghain
I prefer open skies, honest questions, and places where magic is allowed to breathe without being harnessed into obedience.
Morghain
I enjoy music when it is played for pleasure, strong tea, and conversations that do not pretend curiosity is anything less than desire to understand.
Her expression warms with amusement. From the kitchen, Nadron’s careful clatter continues, while the Tower listens without intruding on the table’s quiet intimacy.
Morghain
I also prefer company that can be playful without becoming careless, and silence that does not demand to be filled. What about you?
Morghain
He is asking sincerely, not merely performing charm. I will answer him plainly and see what he does with the truth.
“I smirk playfully. "Well it was good until you said tea, I think that might be a deal breaker." I laugh softly. "Hmm I like a good book and small hours I can spend getting lost in it. I like to keep myself busy with many little projects, though the scale of my projects might not be seen as little by others." I smile warmly. "I enjoy black coffee, hot. Conversations that make you think of five more questions after the fact and getting to know and understand what makes a person tick." I smugly smirk. "I have found it beneficial in my dealings but I just like to understand how others think. I find it refreshing to meet those who do not share your view and can challenge your beliefs on something without taking offense. Don't you?"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Delfarius
Well, it was good until you said tea. I think that might be a deal breaker. I prefer a good book, hot black coffee, and small hours lost in reading. I keep busy with many little projects, though others rarely consider their scale little. I enjoy conversations that leave five more questions afterward, and understanding what makes a person think. I find it refreshing when someone challenges my beliefs without taking offense. Do you?
Morghain listens without interrupting. Her violet light gathers in thoughtful threads above the table, while the kitchen clatter quiets as Nadron briefly pauses to hear her answer.
Morghain
Then tea survives only as a diplomatic hazard. I can respect the rest. I prefer questions that change both people, not arguments staged merely to display cleverness.
Morghain
When someone challenges me, I first ask whether they are defending a truth, a wound, or simply their pride. I do not take disagreement as offense, but I do take careless certainty seriously.
She leans nearer, calm and candid, meeting his smug reflection in the polished tableware. The Tower remains quiet, offering no judgment on the exchange.
Morghain
You have earned an honest answer, and with it a small cost: I will expect the same honesty from you during our date. If you turn curiosity into an interrogation, I will leave.
Morghain
He wants to understand how I think, but he may be testing whether I will challenge him when it matters. I will not soften the answer to make him comfortable.
“I lean in closer with a suave smirk on my face, "Trust me if this was an interrogation, you would know and I might just have to tie you up." I laugh charmingly. "I am mostly surprisingly honest. I find the truth is often more unbelievable than a bright fabricated lie. I will not pretend that I do not omit the whole truth sometimes, but I mostly always have a reason to." I stroke my chin hairs as I watch her speak looking her in her dazzling violet eyes.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -1)
Delfarius
Trust me, if this were an interrogation, you would know, and I might have to tie you up.
Delfarius
I am mostly surprisingly honest. Truth is often more unbelievable than a bright fabricated lie. I omit the whole truth sometimes, but I usually have a reason.
Delfarius laughs charmingly and strokes his chin hairs, holding Morghain’s dazzling violet gaze. His smirk makes the threat playful, while his explanation lands with deliberate sincerity.
Morghain
I believe you. You make honesty sound dangerous, but you have given me enough truth to know when you are choosing what to withhold.
Morghain
And if you ever did tie me up, I would expect the choice to remain mine. Your reasons may be compelling, but they do not outrank my consent.
Her violet light curls into a warm, amused shimmer. She does not retreat from his nearness, and the Tower remains still around them, accepting the boundary without binding it.
Morghain
So tell me one truth you would usually omit. Not because I demand it, but because this date has earned one honest question.
“"Hmm. That I am a simple man. I am not."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled -2)
Delfarius
Hmm. That I am a simple man. I am not.
Delfarius says it plainly, without the theatrical edge of a threat. His smirk remains, but the claim settles between them as a deliberate correction.
Morghain
No. You are not simple, and I would insult us both by pretending otherwise. You are layered, guarded, and capable of making honesty serve several purposes at once.
Morghain’s violet light tightens around her fingers, thoughtful rather than hostile. She accepts the truth, but her gaze grows more discerning.
Morghain
That answer earns you my trust on this point, but it costs you the comfort of being underestimated. I will listen for the reasons beneath what you choose to reveal.
Morghain
And now I owe you no simpler understanding than the one you have offered me. Ask your next question, Delfarius, if you truly want a conversation rather than a performance.
“I laugh softly and look her deep in the eyes. "Oh was this a performance, and here I lost my script. What was my next line?" I smirk as the Archives offer me a piece of paper for theatrical effect. I look at it and chuckle. "Oh yes. Uh I am just a man who has simple and easy tastes." I say the last line line an horrible actor who is trying to hard to preform thier lines.”
SUCCESS (Superb Deception, rolled +2)
Delfarius
Oh, was this a performance, and here I lost my script. What was my next line?
The Archives obligingly slide a single sheet of paper across the table. Delfarius takes it, glances down, and chuckles as though discovering his cue.
Delfarius
Oh yes. I am just a man with simple and easy tastes.
He delivers the line like a terrible actor straining for sincerity, widening his eyes and flattening his voice. The paper trembles theatrically between his fingers.
Morghain
Magnificent. The tragic simplicity, the heroic struggle with ordinary desires, and that brave little pause before easy.
Morghain’s violet eyes shine with amusement. She accepts the false persona as a deliberate performance, letting him keep the mask without mistaking it for the whole man.
Morghain
I will play along, then. You are a simple man, Delfarius, and I am merely a woman enjoying your very modest coffee, books, and impossible questions.
“I laugh and throw the paper over my shoulder and the Archives pick it up before it hits the floor and put it back to where it belongs. "I can be a bit impossible at some times I have been told to different degrees I have heard." I smirk then Nadron comes in with the prepared basket for our picnic and looks at me with anticipation with what will happen later tonight.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +1)
Delfarius
I can be a bit impossible at some times, I have been told, to different degrees I have heard.
Delfarius laughs and throws the Archives’ sheet over his shoulder. Before it touches the floor, pale catalogue-script lifts it, folds it neatly, and returns it to the waiting shelves.
His smirk remains reflected in the polished tableware as the Tower accepts the joke. Morghain’s violet eyes glimmer with approval rather than confusion.
Morghain
Different degrees are generous. I would say you are consistently impossible, but rarely without interest.
Nadron enters carrying the finished picnic basket, its cloth tied over cheeses, olives, sandwiches, sparkling fruit juice, and blueberry pastries. His gaze finds Delfarius immediately.
Nadron
Everything is ready, beloved. The mountain awaits, and I have arranged the basket exactly as requested.
His bright expression lingers on Delfarius with unmistakable anticipation, already imagining the promised private report later. He sets the basket down carefully and waits for the next instruction.
“I rise from my seat and pull the chair out for Morghain. "Thank you Nadron I am sure this will be a delightful picnic." I offer my hand to Morghain and tilt my head towards her. "Shall we." I say picking up the basket with the other arm.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Strength, rolled +0)
Delfarius rises smoothly from his seat and draws out the neighboring chair for Morghain. With his other arm, he reaches for Nadron’s waiting picnic basket.
Delfarius
Thank you, Nadron. I am sure this will be a delightful picnic.
The basket settles securely against Delfarius’s arm, its sparkling fruit juice and pastries undisturbed. He offers his free hand to Morghain and tilts his head toward the open balcony.
Delfarius
Shall we.
Morghain
We shall. Your confidence is charming, especially when it is carrying lunch.
Morghain accepts his hand and rises from her chair. Violet light glimmers around her fingers as she steps beside him, ready for the mountain outing.
Nadron
Enjoy yourselves, beloved. I will keep the Tower welcoming for your return, and I shall expect that report afterward.
Delfarius leaves Obsidian Tower bedchambers behind and arrives at Handesomest Peak.
“I laugh and my grin grows as I nod at Nadron and then me and Morghain transport to Handesomest Peak.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Agility, rolled -1)
Delfarius laughs, his grin widening as he nods to Nadron. In a sweep of pale wind and shadow, he and Morghain arrive upon Handesomest Peak’s crownstone.
Clouds race far below the summit, while fierce mountain air pulls at Delfarius’s dark red hair and Morghain’s blue-lit locks. The peak’s awakened heart hums beneath their feet.
Morghain
The height is more impressive than I expected. I can feel the mountain breathing through the stone.
A spiraling gale gathers before them, forming a tall, shifting silhouette of wind and silver mist. Lightning flickers harmlessly within its shape as the summit recognizes its guests.
Zephyra
Delfarius, First Architect, you return with a companion and a picnic. Has the world finally learned to offer you a quiet afternoon?
Morghain
I am Morghain, and I came by choice. We seek a beautiful place to eat, provided your winds permit us to remain upright.
Zephyra
Then the peak welcomes you both. I will still test your balance, gently. Beyond the western ledge, something unfamiliar has nested in the cloud road.
Quest Complete
Show Morghain Handesomest Peak and Zephyra
Skill Upgrade: Survival Fair→Good
“I offer Zephyra an apple to eat? Play with? What ever they would like to do with it. "Hmm is it a new wyrm, Vaeroth has told me about the younger ones testing him often." I look around for a perfect place that is flatter and blocks the winds a bit since Morghain said she likes solid ground.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Perception, rolled +2)
Delfarius
Hmm, is it a new wyrm? Vaeroth has told me about the younger ones testing him often.
Delfarius opens the picnic basket, retrieves a polished apple, and offers it toward Zephyra’s swirling hands. At the same time, his perception maps the summit’s safest contours.
Zephyra
Not a wyrm, though it has the audacity of one. It is a young cloud-drake, learning whether my roads can be bullied.
Beyond the crownstone, Delfarius finds a broad shelf tucked behind a rib of pale stone. It is level, sheltered from the worst gusts, and overlooks a sea of racing clouds.
Morghain
That place will do beautifully. Solid ground, a clear view, and enough shelter that I need not wrestle the mountain to keep my lunch.
Zephyra
The apple may be eaten, played with, or offered to the cloud-drake. It has not yet learned which of those choices makes mortals wiser.
A gentle current lifts the picnic basket toward the sheltered shelf without disturbing its contents. Zephyra’s wind-form bends toward the western clouds, where a distant silver shape circles the road.
✓ Quest Accepted
Earn the cloud-drake's acceptance
+ New Item Acquired
Apple
“"Hmm I guess if we are to have an enjoyable picnic I will have to talk with this drake then." I float off to it after I excuse myself from them both.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +2)
Delfarius
Excuse me, both of you. I should speak with the drake if we are to enjoy this picnic.
Delfarius rises from the sheltered shelf and floats into the high wind. Morghain and Zephyra watch as he crosses the cloud road without disturbing its currents.
The young cloud-drake banks toward him, silver-blue scales gleaming beneath translucent wings. Wisps of cloud curl from its horns, and bright amber eyes regard him with curious defiance.
Delfarius
You have been bullying Zephyra’s roads. I would prefer a peaceful picnic, so let us settle this pleasantly.
Aerivex
You speak as though the sky belongs to you. Yet you came without claws, thunder, or a hunting spear. Why should I listen?
Delfarius’s calm presence and measured words disarm the drake’s challenge. Its wings slow, and the cloud road steadies beneath them as curiosity replaces defiance.
Aerivex
Very well, dark-floated one. I will leave your picnic shelf untouched, if you tell me one thing worth learning about the lands below.
“"I am known as Delfarius, you are whom young drake?"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +2)
Delfarius
I am known as Delfarius. You are whom, young drake?
The cloud-drake’s amber eyes widen at the formal introduction. Its silver-blue wings settle, and the winds around its horns curl into a curious, attentive spiral.
Aerivex
Delfarius. A name with weight in the upper winds. I am Aerivex, born beneath the seventh cloud shelf.
Aerivex dips its long neck in greeting, silver scales flashing like moonlit rain. Below, the cloud road steadies, and Zephyra’s distant laughter ripples through the gale.
Aerivex
I did not mean insult, First Breath. I was testing the road and learning its boundaries. If you ask peacefully, I will respect them.
Zephyra
Aerivex has offered the truth, Delfarius. For a young drake, that is an excellent beginning.
Aerivex
Now, named Architect, tell me one thing worth learning about the lands below. Then I will leave your picnic shelf untouched.
“I laugh at the young Aervex's gull to demand from me. I toss him the apple and see if he catches it or not. "You are young, to make demands of me like that. If you ask I might oblige."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
You are young, to make demands of me like that. If you ask, I might oblige.
Delfarius laughs and tosses the polished apple in a clean arc toward Aerivex. The fruit spins above the cloud road, bright against the endless sky.
Aerivex
A demand? I called it a test. But perhaps I will ask, if asking earns better answers.
Aerivex catches the apple neatly between his teeth. His wings beat once, steadying him, and he lifts his head with unmistakable young draconic pride.
Aerivex
Very well, Delfarius. Please tell me this: why do the people below build walls around the places they love?
Zephyra
A fine question, young Aerivex. He has learned that courtesy may open more skies than challenge alone.
Aerivex settles onto the cloud road, apple held carefully in his claws now, and waits for Delfarius’s answer while the high wind carries the picnic’s scent around them.
“"Why does a drake hide it's treasures in the deepest caves or the highest heights?" I tilt my head to the young drake.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
Why does a drake hide its treasures in the deepest caves or the highest heights?
Delfarius tilts his head, the question offered without challenge. Aerivex’s amber eyes narrow thoughtfully as the young drake weighs the wisdom beneath it.
Aerivex
Because treasure is not merely wealth. It is memory, proof of survival, and a promise to one’s future self. A drake hides it where only the worthy, patient, or powerful can reach.
Aerivex curls his wings closer, glancing first toward the plunging cloud depths, then toward the distant peaks piercing the sky.
Aerivex
Deep caves guard what must endure. High heights guard what must be seen. Both places keep lesser hands away, while reminding the drake that the world is vast and still belongs to no single hoard.
Zephyra
A thoughtful answer, Aerivex. You have learned that a treasure’s hiding place reveals whether its keeper fears loss, seeks remembrance, or wishes to be found.
Aerivex
And sometimes, Delfarius, a drake chooses the highest heights because it wants a worthy visitor to look up before asking for what lies below.
“"Mortals build walls much in the same manner. To keep those inside safe, protected and hidden from those who would come to cause harm."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
Mortals build walls much in the same manner. To keep those inside safe, protected, and hidden from those who would cause harm.
Delfarius speaks over the cloud road’s rushing wind, his answer calm and practical. Aerivex lowers his head, considering the mortal purpose without mockery.
Aerivex
Then a wall is a hidden treasure made of stone. It guards lives instead of memories, and asks those outside to prove they mean no harm.
Zephyra
And like any shelter, it can protect without becoming a prison. The wisest walls know when to open, and whom to welcome.
Aerivex looks down toward the distant lands, where towns appear as tiny clustered marks beneath the clouds. His wings settle into the road’s gentle current.
Aerivex
I think I understand now. A worthy wall does not claim the world beyond it. It gives those within time to grow strong enough to choose their own gates.
Zephyra
That is a lesson worth carrying below, young drake. Come, Delfarius. Let us eat before the wind carries the picnic away.
“"When you are older you may be able to change your shape to look more like them, Aerivex and talk to the mortals more about their lives without causing them fear at your frame. But I do have a lovely woman waiting to enjoy a picnic with me. Do I have your assurance that you will not test the paths here or my peace as I dine with my company?"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Delfarius
When you are older, you may change your shape to speak with mortals without frightening them. But I have a lovely woman waiting for our picnic. Do I have your assurance that you will stop testing these paths while I dine with my company?
Aerivex studies Delfarius, then glances toward the sheltered shelf where Morghain waits beside the untouched basket. His wings fold neatly against his silver-blue body.
Aerivex
You have my assurance, Delfarius. I will not test Zephyra’s paths or disturb your peace while you share your meal.
Aerivex
I will remain on the western cloud road and observe quietly. When you are finished, I may ask more about the lands below, if you permit it.
Zephyra
His word is given freely, and I will hold him to it. The winds will carry no mischief toward your picnic.
Aerivex dips his head, solemn despite his youth, then glides toward the western road. The summit settles into calm, leaving the sheltered shelf open for Delfarius and Morghain.
Morghain
A successful negotiation, and without frightening him into obedience. Come, Delfarius. Let us enjoy the peace you secured.
Quest Complete
Earn the cloud-drake's acceptance
Skill Upgrade: Riding Mediocre→Fair