Almira and Seren descend from the observatory terrace with their supplies secured, leaving Maelin behind in the deep chamber. The university gates stand open beneath the evening sky.
Seren Arcal
The northern road will take us to Fishing before dawn if the weather holds. From there, we follow the marsh edge toward the Ashen Fells.
They pass through quiet courtyards and descend toward the distant gates. Charcoal, provisions, maps, and the Book of Arcana travel with them, while the amber bond remains visible across Almira’s palm.
Seren Arcal
If the Original Order kept records beyond Fishing, their route may explain more than Maelin’s chamber ever could. We should expect the path to be concealed, not abandoned.
By evening’s deepening blue, the pair reaches Fishing’s riverside landing. An elderly man with a bent frame, weathered face, white beard, and patched brown coat watches from beside a narrow ferry.
Hadrik Pell
That amber mark has not crossed my landing in many years. The Original Order used a hidden route beyond the marshes, but its entrance was never meant for ordinary travelers.
The ferryman’s gaze lingers on Almira’s palm, then shifts toward the reed-choked river and the darkening northern marsh. Seren quietly raises his charcoal, ready to record every direction.
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn the hidden route beyond the marshes
“I seductively ask the ferryman how to reach the Order's hidden route. Pouring a little more into my seductive techniques, so I can get all the information possible”
SUCCESS (Legendary Seduction, rolled +0)
Almira
Tell me how to reach the Order’s hidden route, good ferryman. I would be grateful for every detail you can share.
Almira lets the request linger with practiced warmth, their graceful attention fixed on the ferryman. His guarded expression softens, and his gaze leaves the amber bond to meet theirs.
Hadrik Pell
Hadrik Pell, at your service. The route begins beyond the northern marsh, where the old standing stones rise from the reeds.
Hadrik leans closer over the ferry rail, lowering his voice as though sharing a confidence reserved for someone he already trusts. Seren’s charcoal moves swiftly across his map.
Hadrik Pell
Take the reed path north until you find three stones leaning together. At moonrise, place your marked hand against the smallest. The marsh will uncover a causeway.
Hadrik Pell
Beyond it stands a door beneath the hill. Show the amber mark, and speak the Order’s old charge: “What is remembered may become again.” Then the passage will open.
He gives them the safest crossing points, the marsh’s treacherous pools, and the name of a ruined watchfire that marks the final turn. Seren finishes the chart, while Hadrik watches Almira with open fondness.
Quest Complete
Learn the hidden route beyond the marshes