Frecal emerges from the narrow tunnel into a small, stifling alcove packed with floor to ceiling bookshelves. The air is thick with the scent of dry parchment and dust.
The Archivist
That light... it matches the forbidden texts, but he is just a boy.
Frecal
She is not reaching for a weapon, just staring at the scroll.
The Archivist
Put that glow away, child. If the magisters see that violet hue from the street, they will burn this library to the ground before you can blink.
The elderly woman stands slowly, her hands trembling as she gestures toward a heavy velvet curtain hanging near the back of the room.
The Archivist
You are clearly out of your depth, thief. Let me see what map you have found, and perhaps I can help you survive the night.
+ Story Quest Added
Survive the night in the city
+ Scene Quest Added
Get the Archivist's help
“Show her the scroll”
SUCCESS (Good Persuasion, rolled -1)
Frecal
Her hands are shaking more from fear than age.
Frecal
I did not come here to burn anything down. I just want to know what this is.
Frecal carefully unfurls the parchment, tilting it so the violet light illuminates the intricate, shifting ley lines drawn in silver ink.
The Archivist
The ley markings. They are aligned to the hidden gate in the harbor. He has no idea what he carries.
The Archivist
You have done well to bring this here, boy. This is not a map of the city, but a key to the vault below the magisterium.
The Archivist
If you follow the path traced here, you will find a secondary exit that bypasses the street patrols entirely. Will you trust me to guide your way?
“Trust her to guide the way”
SUCCESS (Good Persuasion, rolled +0)
The archivist lets out a long breath and reaches for the scroll with careful fingers. Violet light shivers across the cramped shelves as she turns it toward the desk, no longer hiding her concern.
The Archivist
Good. Then listen closely. I know these marks, and I know the people who fear them.
The Archivist
If he leaves blind, he dies. If the magisters find him here, we both may.
She draws the lamp back and lays a finger beside one bright line on the parchment, tracing its curve to a narrow inked stair beneath the city seal.
The Archivist
This route goes below the magistrate’s archives, then out through an old flood tunnel. It is ugly, damp, and forgotten. Which is why it may keep you alive.
A faint, almost rueful smile touches her mouth as she folds the edge of the scroll back toward Frecal, making space for him to see the path clearly.
The Archivist
I will guide you. If you trust my hand, I will take you as far as the hidden stair and tell you what to watch for on the way.
Quest Complete
Get the Archivist's help
Skill Upgrade: Persuasion Good→Great