The chamber doors open, and Sava enters with Theon and Krae from the dyehouse. Their arrival interrupts the ledger ceremony as the fugitives gather beneath Willowmere’s protection.
Sava
The promise is already being tested. Someone questioned the dyehouse workers about strangers, asking whether the council truly protects those beneath its seal.
Theon sets the food sack beside the table, while Krae closes the doors and listens through the wood. No one enters after them, but the cellar grows still.
Theon
We brought everything from the loft. The questions were polite, but they were meant to measure how quickly fear might loosen a tongue.
Krae
The town has not turned against us. Still, watchers near the lane will learn whether Willowmere’s words carry beyond this room.
the elderly councilor
Then our ledger is not enough. Council protection must reach the dyehouse, the gate, and every witness who stands beneath our seal.
The elderly councilor’s hand pauses above the unfinished entry. She looks from Sava to Raedwulf, leaving the next decision open before the gathered fugitives.
✓ Quest Accepted
Make the council’s protection enforceable