The alley narrows between salt-stained stalls and stacked crab pots. Raven has the scroll case in hand, the Messenger at his side, while the Deserter slips into shadow.
Armored boots clatter hard on stone. A captain, broad-shouldered and grim, strides into the gap with two guards behind him, and all three stop short at the sight of bloodied cloth and the sealed case.
Captain Brann
Hold there. What happened here, and why do you have that case?
The Messenger
Captain, please, he kept it from the wrong hands. I was attacked.
The captain’s gaze flicks from the Messenger’s wounds to Raven’s claws and the scroll case, weighing the lie of the moment against the shape of the truth.
Captain Brann
I am Captain Brann. Set the case down slowly, and tell me who sent you both into my market.
The guards shift to either side, not yet striking, but ready to close the alley if Raven runs or reaches for steel.
✓ Quest Accepted
Get past Captain Brann and the guards
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure the messenger’s safety
“Can I convince the Captain that the messenger is under my protection?”
YES (Likely, rolled 42)
The Messenger
My name is Elian, and I swear on my life, this man is the only reason I am still breathing.
Captain Brann
The boy is terrified, but he looks at this rogue with genuine trust, not the fear of a captive.
Captain Brann
If you truly stand as his shield, then keep your hands where I can see them, and tell me exactly what you intend to do with that case.
“Is Brann willing to let us leave if I comply?”
NO (Even, rolled 72)
Captain Brann shakes his head slowly, his eyes hardening as he signals the guards to tighten their formation around the alley exit. He has no intention of letting the pair walk away with the scroll, regardless of Raven's cooperation.
“I talk Captain Brann into letting us pass”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled -1)
Raven lowers the tension in his shoulders and lets the captain see the scroll case in plain view. His words are calm, but the alley goes quiet around the edge of them, like everyone is listening for the wrong note.
Captain Brann
You have nerve, thief. I can let you pass, but I take the case, and I want your name on it when this is done.
Raven
Then you get my word I am not the one causing trouble here.
The Messenger
He is buying us time. Gods, let it work.
Captain Brann
Hmph. Fine. You walk, for now. But if this scroll goes missing, I come looking for both of you.
Brann edges one guard aside. The opening is narrow, and Raven has to shoulder through with the case hugged tight to his chest.
The Messenger
Raven... thank you. I owe you more than I can say.
The messenger’s relief is plain, but Brann’s stare follows them both, measuring the cost of this mercy as they pass.
Quest Complete
Get past Captain Brann and the guards
Quest Complete
Secure the messenger’s safety