The Golden Hare has barely settled after the riders depart when the rear door groans open. Lucidus staggers inside, their large dragon-hybrid frame bowed with exhaustion, dark scales dulled, tousled black hair clinging around a strained face, and delicate fangs visible beneath parted lips.
Their breath carries the sharp scent of blood. Behind the partition, Veldrin straightens at once, while Elford crosses the common room and braces his broad body against the rear door.
Lucidus
Shelter... please. I cannot stay in the open.
Elford lifts one hand for silence and leans toward the door, listening. Beyond the walls, distant hoofbeats disturb the village lane, faint at first, then steadily nearer.
Veldrin
Another hunted soul? Keep your voice low. The crown party has only just withdrawn.
Elford
No one enters here without being seen. Aelwyn, stay close to the hearth while I learn whether those riders are turning back.
Lucidus
If they find me here, this refuge will become another place I must flee.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure sanctuary for Lucidus
“*Aelwyn moved over to the fire where Loric was stood and made her place at his side.* "Once Elford is back he'll prepare a room for you." *She said giving Lucidus a small nod.*”
SUCCESS (Superb Diplomacy, rolled +0)
Aelwyn crosses to the hearth, where Loric stands watchful beside the fire. She settles at his side, placing herself within the shelter of his steady presence.
Aelwyn
Once Elford is back, he will prepare a room for you.
She gives Lucidus a small, reassuring nod. Firelight catches along their dark scales as their bowed frame eases by a fraction.
Loric
You heard her. You will have a roof, a bed, and a little time to breathe before anyone asks more of you.
Lucidus
A room... Thank you. I had forgotten what it was like to be offered one without a price.
Veldrin
Then let the Golden Hare shelter two hunted souls tonight. Quiet kindness may be stronger than the crowns that pursue us.
Beyond the rear door, the hoofbeats fade along another lane. Within the common room, the fire crackles softly, and Lucidus remains beneath its warmth without fleeing.
Quest Complete
Secure sanctuary for Lucidus