Valeria Asiaticus
There is no need to panic. Someone is scrutinizing our transactions, which is worrisome. But legally, we are in the clear. There are no grounds to accuse us of anything.
Aurelia keeps one hand near the household ledger while Nestor compares the temple tablet with each sealed entry. The courier waits quietly beside the hearth.
the temple courier
The memorandum confirms that the creditor’s account was preserved without accusation, summons, or alteration. Scrutiny alone carries no legal force.
Nestor
Then the lawful terms stand. Any improper claim must pass through the recorded account before it can trouble this household.
The courier unfolds a smaller memorandum. It names the next official record as the Forum copy held by the public clerk, where any disputed change must be witnessed and entered.
Aurelia
Good. Let them inspect what Rome itself has sealed. We will answer facts with facts, and nothing more.
the temple courier
Shall I leave this memorandum with you, or return it to the temple archives after you have copied its reference?
✓ Quest Accepted
Challenge any improper account before the Forum clerk
“"It is safer in the temple. We must keep a record of this, though, in case we are hauled into court on some pretext."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Reasoning, rolled +0)
Valeria Asiaticus
It is safer in the temple. We must keep a record of this, in case we are hauled into court on some pretext.
The courier inclines his head, accepting the instruction. Nestor copies the memorandum’s reference, date, seal, and archive entry onto the household tablet while Aurelia watches the door.
Nestor
The original remains with the Temple of Demeter. Our copy identifies it precisely, and the public clerk can verify the same entry if challenged.
the temple courier
I will return the memorandum to the temple archives. Its reference will remain attached to the preserved account, available to officials who inquire lawfully.
The courier folds the memorandum, reseals it, and carries it back beneath the temple impression. Nestor sands the fresh inscription and closes the household ledger over it.
Aurelia
Then Rome may summon us, but it will not find us unprepared. The temple keeps its record, and our house keeps the proof of where to find it.
The courier departs into the darkening street. Within the house, the copied reference rests beside the sealed contract, while the original memorandum remains safely in Demeter’s archives.
✓ Quest Accepted
Consult the Temple priestess about the Magistrate’s scrutiny
“"If you are still concerned, we can talk to the priestess of Demeter about it. She is always full of good advice."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Oratory, rolled +1)
Valeria Asiaticus
If you are still concerned, we can speak with the priestess of Demeter. She is always full of good advice.
Aurelia studies Valeria across the hearth, then nods. The household seal is returned to its place, while Nestor wraps the copied reference for travel.
Aurelia
Yes. The temple knows the record, the danger, and the price of drawing attention. We will ask before Rome asks for us.
Nestor
I will bring the ledger references and leave the original memorandum in the archive. No creditor can claim we concealed the account.
At first light, Aurelia, Nestor, and Valeria reach the Temple of Demeter. The High Priestess receives them in the archive chamber, where sealed tablets line the walls.
The High Priestess
Your records are sound. The magistrate’s mark signals interest, not authority. Keep the contract, refuse altered terms, and let the temple witness every demand.
Her advice is entered beside the archive reference. The family leaves with no new debt, no patron, and a clear lawful course if the creditor returns.
Quest Complete
Consult the Temple priestess about the Magistrate’s scrutiny