A seam splits across the hollow floor without collapsing it. Worn steps descend into warm green darkness, and moss-bright light breathes upward around their edges.
Sereth Thornwake
That stair is forbidden. It leads toward the First Root by an approach sealed before my watch began.
Sereth rises stiffly, one hand braced against the pale stone. The roots around the opening recoil from her fingers, as though recognizing an old prohibition.
Caelir Vaun
It was sealed before House Vaun’s betrayal. I know the records, Sereth. No living path should remain beneath this hollow.
Caelir tests his bandaged ankle and stands beside Jalesa, keeping his weight carefully balanced. Sereth remains behind them, guarding the covered crest and the stair’s upper edge.
The Patient Voice
Jalesa. Why is the living seal carried by mortal hands? Bring it below, bearer, and let the First Root remember its purpose.
Sereth Thornwake
Do not answer that voice lightly. It may be the Root, or something that learned to speak from the covenant’s wounds.
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn whether the buried voice is the First Root
“Jalesa calmly crouches allowing Caelir to climb onto her back ready to run with him at the first sign of trouble before slowly going down the staircase slowly not to jostle Caelir.”
SUCCESS (Good Agility, rolled +0)
Jalesa crouches calmly before Caelir. He settles onto their back, arms braced around their shoulders, while they secure his legs and keep the covered seal against their chest.
Caelir Vaun
Steady is enough. I will not ask you to hurry unless the stair gives us reason.
Jalesa descends into the warm green darkness, placing each foot with deliberate care. Moss-light outlines worn edges, and Caelir’s weight shifts gently with every measured step.
Their boot slips on damp stone, but Jalesa catches the rail before either of them falls. The rough edge scrapes their palm, and Caelir’s injured ankle bumps their hip.
Caelir Vaun
That was my ankle, not your fault. I can endure it. Keep going, Jalesa.
Jalesa continues downward without jostling him again. Above, Sereth remains at the stairhead with the crest, while the hollow’s light dwindles behind them.
The Patient Voice
The bearer comes carefully. Let the First Root weigh the hands that carry its heir.
