The third gladiatrix has withdrawn beyond the painted arch when the stage official intercepts Valeria in the wings. Attendants pause nearby, while Marcus watches his hands and Titus remains concealed among the moving staff.
the stage official
Myrina, before the physician claims you, I have something that concerns your victory. This tablet records who paid to alter the bout.
He produces a small wax tablet sealed with dark red wax, holding it between two fingers rather than offering it. The theater’s noise presses around the narrow passage.
Marcus Flavius
Keep it visible, official. If it is evidence, witnesses must see its seal before anyone breaks it.
the stage official
The payment came through an intermediary, but the name behind it is here. I was instructed to make you reckless, not victorious.
Marcus steps half a pace closer, blocking the clearest route toward the dressing court. Behind a curtain, Titus shifts once, then becomes still as the official glances toward the concealed attendants.
the stage official
Decide quickly, Myrina. Open this before witnesses, or let the theater seal it away with the rest of tonight’s accounts.
✓ Quest Accepted
Identify who sponsored the unequal contest
“"I think I know the name already, but let's see what the tablet says. I don't really care who else sees it."”
SUCCESS (Legendary Reasoning, rolled -1)
Valeria Asiaticus
I think I know the name already, but let us see what the tablet says. I do not care who else sees it.
The stage official breaks the dark wax before Marcus, the attendants, and the watching staff. He unfolds the wax tablet and holds it where every nearby witness can read.
the stage official
The payment was entered through Publius Varenus, the betting agent. Beside his mark is the intermediary’s name: Secundus.
The cramped notation identifies the altered instructions as a theater expense, then records Secundus as the person who delivered them. A second line names the official who authorized the change.
Marcus Flavius
There it is, in public record. The same Secundus who touched your household’s name at the Circus, and now your bout.
the stage official
I kept the payment because refusing it would have made me vanish before dawn. But the tablet proves who bought the pressure, and the witnesses prove I surrendered it.
The attendants exchange wary looks as the name spreads through the wings. Titus remains concealed, while Marcus studies the tablet’s marks and the official’s suddenly exposed position.
Quest Complete
Identify who sponsored the unequal contest
Skill Upgrade: Politics Superb→Legendary