The purse passes into the captain's scarred hand. He is a broad-shouldered middle-aged man in a stained red cloak, with a broken nose and iron rings in his beard. His sun-darkened skin and close-cropped brown hair complete his weathered appearance.
The Mercenary Captain
At last. The bout proceeds, and the company is paid.
Outside the cell, three guards tighten their grips on spear shafts. Their eyes follow the purse instead of Sorin, and none dares meet the captain's stare.
Sorin turns from the passage and walks back into his underground cell. Torchlight crawls over the stone, chains, and the immense figure barring the inner way.
Lorgash
I will not fight for their gold. Let the captain explain why he fears this bout.
Behind Sorin, the captain's boots halt beyond the threshold. The guards remain outside, guarding the empty passage as though the purse might still be stolen back.
The Mercenary Captain
Lorgash, move aside. The arena waits, and patience is not among my remaining virtues.
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn why the captain fears the bout
“I turn and ask, "Who is afraid of who out there?!”
SUCCESS (Mediocre Intimidation, rolled +1)
Sorin
Who is afraid of who out there?
Sorin turns fully, four arms and heavy chains catching the torchlight. The captain's guarded confidence falters, while Lorgash watches from the inner way without blinking.
The Mercenary Captain
The arena master fears Lorgash will refuse, and I fear losing the purse. That is the truth you bought with your question.
Lorgash
He fears more than gold, Varnek. He fears what happens when I stand opposite Sorin again.
The three guards shift outside the threshold, spears lowering by an inch. Varnek's jaw tightens; the answer has cost him authority before his own men.
The Mercenary Captain
You wanted an answer, Sorin. Now every guard here knows you can make me give one. Do not mistake that for friendship.
Lorgash
Good. Let them carry the truth to the arena.
Beyond them, the guards part from the passage. The way to the arena stands open, while Varnek keeps his purse clenched and his wounded pride close.
Quest Complete
Learn why the captain fears the bout
Skill Upgrade: Intimidation Mediocre→Fair