The origin node dims to a steady glow, leaving the authenticated dais and its gathered witnesses in muted blue light. A countdown appears above the controls: ACCESS PERIOD, twelve minutes.
Maya
We have twelve minutes before the node seals again. We need a plan for the settlement: who enters, who stays here, and what we do if the network detects danger.
Caelen
I want to handle the warded systems, but only if Jostan trusts me with them. I will explain each step before I touch anything, and I will stop if he says stop.
Alzafar
Practical answer: nobody splits up until the access window is understood. Secure the route, record the node, then move with enough strength to survive what waits below.
Orin
My practical answer differs. The window is already closing, so copy the records first. A hidden settlement is worthless if we arrive without its maps, safeguards, or exit route.
The countdown drops to ten minutes. Maya watches the darkened corridors, Caelen keeps his hands visible, and Alzafar’s coral staff hums softly beside the dais. Orin opens a recording channel.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure a unified team plan for the settlement expedition
“I assign roles: Maya scouts, Caelen wards, Orin copies, and Alzafar guards.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled -2)
Jostan Ordomo
Maya scouts. Caelen handles the wards. Orin copies the records. Alzafar guards the team and the route.
The assignment settles over the dais with the countdown still falling. Maya takes the forward corridor, Caelen moves to the ward controls, and Orin angles his recorder toward the node.
Maya
I will scout the route and mark every safe turn. But when we find the settlement, I choose our first contact. That is the price of my cooperation.
Caelen
I accept the ward work. I will call out each response before I touch the next control, and I will keep the access path open.
Orin
Copying now. Maps, safeguards, exits, and anything tied to Ilyra’s authorization go into two separate records before we move.
Alzafar
I guard the junction and the retreat. If the network detects danger, nobody advances until I give the order.
The roles are accepted. Maya’s condition gives her leverage over the first meeting, a favor Jostan now owes, while the others begin their tasks under Alzafar’s watch.
Reach the fortified settlement
Quest Complete
Secure a unified team plan for the settlement expedition