Seren leads Almira through an upper arch onto the observatory terrace. The ancient stones open beneath a paling sky, and the last sunlight catches the amber bond across their palm.
Below, the university grounds lie quiet among dark roofs, silent courtyards, and pale paths winding toward the distant gates. Maelin’s presence remains only as a warm echo within the bond, far below and safely beside her preserved secret.
Seren Arcal
The route is closed behind us, and Maelin’s truth no longer demands your guardianship. You are free to choose the next direction, Almira. What will you pursue now?
He rests one hand on the terrace parapet, his charcoal-marked fingers easing at last. The observatory gives no warning, and no hidden summons rises from the amber sign.
Seren Arcal
Not what duty requires. Not what the Book points toward. I mean the desire beneath those answers, if you can find words for it.
The final light slips across Almira’s silvery hair and the terrace stones. Seren waits without pressing, while the quiet grounds offer roads toward every unfinished ambition.
Behind them, Maelin remains in the deep chamber, and the return-sign holds no claim upon Almira. Only the open question stands between the terrace and whatever comes next.
“Using seductive voice and movements, I tell Seren, I wish to complete my Mastery over Creation, I've heard tale of An Old Citadel of the Original Order of The Record Of Creation, it lies somewhere North of Fishing across the Ashen Fells, now that we've found his old master I, I ask if he'll join me in finding the entrance and exploring this Citadel, surely the Order left Valuable information on the Creation magics.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Seduction, rolled +0)
Almira turns toward Seren, their voice softening as they move with deliberate grace. The fading light catches the amber bond while the northern horizon darkens beyond the terrace.
Almira
I wish to complete my Mastery over Creation. I have heard of an old citadel of the Original Order of the Record of Creation, somewhere north of Fishing across the Ashen Fells. Will you join me in finding its entrance and exploring its records?
Seren’s guarded stillness gives way to a bright, astonished smile. He studies Almira’s face, then looks north as though the distant mountains have acquired a new shape.
Seren Arcal
Yes. I will join you. Maelin left me a truth, not an ending, and the Order’s citadel may hold the records that explain what she began.
He takes up his charcoal and turns toward the terrace stairs, already measuring the northern route in his mind. His decision carries no reluctance, only the exhilaration of a shared expedition.
Seren Arcal
We will return to Fishing, question its oldest guides, and cross the Ashen Fells from there. This time, Almira, we search together from the first step.
Below, the university paths fade into evening. Beside Almira, Seren begins outlining supplies and routes, and the next journey takes shape as a choice freely made by both of them.
✓ Quest Accepted
Leave the university with Seren
“I gather up my supplies and join seren on the road to Fishing”
SUCCESS (Good Agility, rolled +3)