The black wax trail splits at the warning-marked fork. Above, boots scrape across stone as the lord’s agents enter the refuge. Below, a hooded silhouette waits beside a second packet.
The Hooded Figure
Do not take the upper passage. They are searching for Maelin’s proof, and they know the archive is its destination.
The figure lifts the second packet just enough to show a broken archive seal. Fresh wax glistens across its fold, stamped with the lord’s signet.
The Hooded Figure
Serren’s name has been offered as the traitor’s. If you reach Archivist Pell, carry both packets, and the lie can be opened before witnesses.
A blade scrapes against the upper stones. A muffled order follows, close enough to make the blue witchlight tremble.
The Hooded Figure
Choose quickly. The descent reaches a sealed record-vault beneath the archive. The upper way leads straight into their hands.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure the second packet
✓ Quest Accepted
Bring both packets to Archivist Pell
“"who are you?"”
Carciel
Who are you?
The Hooded Figure
Someone Maelin trusted with the truth. For now, call me a keeper of her warnings.
They lower the packet, their guarded stance easing as the black-wax trail gleams between you.
“"I am a witness of Maelin, I wish to see this through."”
SUCCESS (Superb Willpower, rolled -1)
Carciel
I am a witness of Maelin. I wish to see this through.
The words leave Carciel quietly, but the crypt carries them up the stair. Dust sifts down in answer.
The Hooded Figure
Then you will not turn aside when the truth names its price.
They press the second packet into Carciel's reach. The broken archive seal touches his palm, while the lord's signet leaves a cold black smear across his glove.
The Hooded Figure
This bears the proof's missing answer. Match it to Maelin's record, and Pell can make the accusation actionable.
Behind them, the fresh black-wax trail divides at Maelin's warning sigil. From above comes a muffled bootfall, followed by another.
The Hooded Figure
Choose quickly. The record-vault lies below, but the upper passage is no longer empty.
Quest Complete
Secure the second packet
+ New Item Acquired
Second packet