The hearth crackles low and steady. Roasted roots steam in the bowls, and the room settles into a hush around Xarsthos as he begins to speak.
Xarsthos
I wandered long before Oakhaven. I kept moving, helping where I could, until the road felt more like habit than choice.
Bera leans forward, hands folded around her cup, her eyes fixed on him with open curiosity. The Village Elder listens without interrupting, his shoulders easing as if each word sets something down between them.
Bera
That sounds lonely. But you still kept going, and still chose to help people.
Xarsthos
I did. I never stayed anywhere long enough to call it home.
Village Elder
Then perhaps Oakhaven is the first place that ought to answer that,
The firelight warms the timber walls. Bera offers a small, hopeful smile, and the Elder nods toward the table, leaving the question hanging there like an invitation.
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn whether Oakhaven can truly become home
✓ Quest Accepted
Speak with the Village Elder about staying in Oakhaven
“I discuss staying in Oakhaven for good. I will be its protector”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled -3)
The Elder sets his cup down and studies Xarsthos across the table, the fire reflecting in his old eyes. The room stays still, listening.
Village Elder
Then stay. Not as a guest passing through, but as Oakhaven’s shield, if that is the life you choose.
Xarsthos
I stay. Oakhaven is where I will put down roots, and where I will stand watch.
Bera
Good. Because we have seen what you do when people need you, and I would rather have that close than far away.
The Elder reaches for the cider jug and fills a third cup, his hand steady. The gesture is simple, but it lands like a welcome made tangible.
Village Elder
Then we speak of work, a bed, a place by the hearth, and the duties that make a home more than a roof.
Bera
And if you mean to be our protector, tell us true, what kind of place do you mean to protect us into becoming?
Quest Complete
Speak with the Village Elder about staying in Oakhaven
Quest Complete
Learn whether Oakhaven can truly become home