The archive-blue cord lies taut across the evidence bundle on the locked writing table. Beyond the annex door, measured footsteps approach through the rain.
A finely dressed envoy enters beneath a black-wax authorization, silk darkened at the shoulders by weather. They do not bow. Their gaze fixes on the bound bundle.
The Finely Dressed Envoy
By emergency order of the magistrates, this evidence is to be surrendered immediately. Any obstruction will be recorded as defiance of lawful custody.
Court Clerk
The seal appears genuine. The demand does not become lawful merely because you carry it. I require public verification before anything moves.
The Registrar
The bundle remains under witnessed chain. No emergency order has been entered in the annex register.
The envoy steps toward the writing table, one gloved hand hovering near the blue cord. Serren shifts between them and the evidence, while the Clerk raises the public record for all present to see.
✓ Quest Accepted
Expose the envoy’s incomplete authority
“I stand in front of the clerk. "I want proof." I firmly state. "We refuse to hand these over without proof from the Magistrates"”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled +3)
Carciel
I want proof. We refuse to hand these over without proof from the magistrates.
Carciel steps before the Clerk, placing himself between the evidence and the envoy. The blue cord remains untouched.
The Finely Dressed Envoy
You mistake urgency for permission. Stand aside.
Court Clerk
No. Your order names emergency custody, but bears no magistrate’s public verification, no annex entry, and no receiving mark.
The Clerk turns the public record toward the witnesses. Beneath the contested transfer, they enter the envoy’s demand and its missing attestations in a firm hand.
The Registrar
Then the authority is incomplete and publicly contestable. The bundle remains protected under the witnessed chain.
Serren Vale
We stand together. Let the magistrates answer for their order in the open.
Outside, hurried footsteps stop at the closed annex door. The envoy’s black wax is now evidence against the demand, and the witnesses regain the archive’s protection.
Quest Complete
Expose the envoy’s incomplete authority