The Centurion Master carries Astrea into a stone council chamber above the gatehouse. Brazier heat replaces the road’s chill, and covered jars offer stored water to the surviving column.
The Imperial commander and Stormcloak jarl enter with their soldiers, while Mannimarco’s ash, the nameless draugr, and the ruined tower remain behind beneath the pines.
A broad-shouldered middle-aged woman steps from the forge alcove. Her soot-dark skin, braided black hair, leather apron, and brass-capped left thumb mark her as the city armorer.
the city armorer
Set the chain there. I can fit your dart head after I hear precisely what happened at the tower.
The armorer tests each oiled link, then lays it beside the broken dart head. The commanders recount the sealed breach, Molag Bal’s intervention, and Mannimarco’s death.
the Imperial commander
The ruins cannot be abandoned. Astrea struck the necromancer down, and their judgment must guide who guards the stones and studies what remains.
the Stormcloak jarl
Our troops will hold the gate and keep scavengers from the tower. But the accord must name Astrea’s authority, or this peace will fracture before dawn.
Establish a workable accord with the commanders concerning the ruins and Astrea’s role