The river-road descends to old ferry steps where mist coils over dark water. No boat cuts the surface, and no ferryman answers the hollow calls of the current.
A mud-streaked woman climbs from the lowest step, soaked skirts dragging behind her. She is a lean adult with cropped brown hair, a torn green cloak, and a bloodless crown-shaped brand stamped into her palm.
Sella Vey
My name is Sella Vey. Mara’s fulfilled song condemned the recognized claimant, and the river has swallowed every witness who carried the royal seal.
She raises a cracked royal seal in one fist. Behind Nico, Grakka shifts onto the ferry landing, broad shoulders tense, his hand hovering near his weapon without drawing it.
Sella Vey
That leaf carries the cadence. You have it, don’t you? Tell me, elf, do you serve the heir, or do you serve the prophecy that condemned them?
Grakka Ironvein
Careful, Sella. He has carried the song faithfully, but no crown has named him its keeper. Do not force a river judgment onto a traveler.
Mist folds around the empty ferry steps. The golden leaf warms in Nico’s hand, while Sella’s branded palm and cracked seal remain lifted between him and the black water.
Learn the fate of the recognized claimant
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure safe passage across the river