Master Pell steps deeper into the yard, calm as a man at his own feast. Rain-dark stone, stacked ledgers, and iron-bound chests frame him as he lifts a heavy purse toward the Guard.
Master Pell
Take it. Leave the clerk, leave this yard, and I can erase the rest. Your past, your troubles, all of it.
Gold spills against Pell's palm with a soft, brutal weight. The Guard's fingers tighten on his weapon instead of the purse, eyes fixed on the offer.
The Guard
That is more coin than a year of wages. But if I take it, I am theirs.
Wukong stands at the threshold, the open gate behind him, the yard ahead laid bare. Pell keeps his smile measured, as if he is bargaining for weather, not lives.
Master Pell
Walk away, Wukong. Let the clerk go, and I will make sure none of this follows you.
✓ Quest Accepted
Hold the Guard to his duty
✓ Quest Accepted
Expose Master Pell's conspiracy
“I draw my weapon and point it at master pell. I then say "I will not accept black money!" and gesture to the guard to keep his guard up in case master pell tries to escape. I then continue to question master pell.”
SUCCESS (Good Willpower, rolled +0)
Wukong brings his blade up and points it straight at Pell. The yard goes still except for rain ticking on stone.
Wukong
I will not accept black money.
He jerks his chin toward the Guard, a clear order to stay sharp. The Guard squares his shoulders and turns fully toward Pell, weight settling into a ready stance.
Master Pell
Spare me the virtue, then ask your questions quickly.
Pell’s smile thins. The purse hangs in his hand, suddenly less like an offer and more like evidence.
The Guard
You heard him. Keep your hands where I can see them, Pell.
Master Pell
If you wanted a confession, you should have asked before you dragged me into the open.
Quest Complete
Expose Master Pell's conspiracy
Quest Complete
Hold the Guard to his duty