The Northmere official finishes amending the warrant and places the revised record beside Cerdic’s declaration. Her guards remain at the door while Hrodric and Harlen witness the entry.
the Northmere official
Timothy may travel with us to Northmere. His testimony can be taken there, under protection, while Cerdic’s recognized custody remains voluntary, visible, and subject to review.
She indicates the waiting writ case and the rain-dark road beyond the gatehouse. Hrodric stays behind with the records, while Harlen is assigned to accompany Timothy as witness.
Cerdic
I consent to the journey, provided the declaration travels with him and your guards record that no transfer is forced. My custody ends wherever his consent ends.
the Northmere official
Agreed. The record and witnesses will travel together. Cerdic, you may accompany us or remain here, but you will not obstruct the examination.
Cerdic glances toward the scarred pursuer, who remains under guard near the doorway, then toward Hrodric’s ink-stained hands. Harlen steps nearer Timothy without touching him.
Cerdic
I will accompany the party to Northmere. Hrodric remains to preserve this record, and the pursuer remains under guard until his account is taken.
✓ Quest Accepted
Defy Northmere's authority
“I withdraw my consent and refuse to travel under Northmere’s authority.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled +0)
Timothy
I withdraw my consent. I refuse to travel under Northmere’s authority, and I will not accompany your party to Northmere.
The declaration’s new clause stands contradicted by Timothy’s spoken refusal. Harlen remains beside him, while the Northmere guards hold their places at the door without touching him.
the Northmere official
Your consent is withdrawn and recorded. You will not be transferred to Northmere under that consent, though your testimony remains subject to lawful summons.
Cerdic
Then my recognized custody ends where his consent ends. He remains here, not as property under my claim, but as a witness refusing this journey.
Harlen
I witnessed the withdrawal plainly. No one may say he agreed to travel after this moment.
The official strikes the travel clause from the revised record and writes the refusal beneath it. Cerdic’s custody remains under review, but Northmere cannot carry Timothy away by consent.
Quest Complete
Defy Northmere's authority