The Prefect escorts Paul from the library toward the Studies, carrying the heavier ledgers while Paul bears the three slimmer volumes. The corridor is quiet, and the task proceeds without further mishap.
Inside the Studies, shelves rise along the walls beneath the gas brackets. The Prefect indicates an empty section, and Paul begins placing the books in their proper order while the older rooms remain empty.
As the Prefect shelves one volume, a folded pamphlet slips from between its pages and lands on the floor. Its cover carries no school mark, but several bold words are visible where the fold has opened.
The Prefect picks it up and unfolds two pages. The pamphlet argues against inherited privilege and compulsory obedience, its language sharp enough to alarm any master who found it among school property.
Prefect
This was inside the book you were carrying. Do you know how it came to be here?
He studies the pamphlet again, then looks from its printed arguments to Paul standing beside the shelves. The books are school property, but Paul is the immediate and convenient suspect.
Prefect
Think carefully before you answer, Foot. A document like this could be treated as deliberate insolence, especially if you placed it here yourself.
✓ Quest Accepted
Accept responsibility for the pamphlet
“I admit I placed the pamphlet among the books.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Willpower, rolled +0)
Paul Foot
I placed it among the books, sir.
The admission leaves Paul’s mouth quietly. Fear of the cane tightens his breathing, but his hard-won steadiness keeps the words clear, without excuses or embellishment.
The Prefect studies him beneath the gas bracket. Paul does not retreat from the statement or soften it, holding himself still while the pamphlet remains open in the Prefect’s hands.
Prefect
You understand what you have admitted, Foot? This is not a book misplaced by accident, but a pamphlet deliberately put among school volumes.
Paul Foot
The admission is now in his hands as well as mine.
Prefect
Very well. I shall record your statement exactly, and take the pamphlet to the housemaster. You will remain here while I secure the books.
He folds the pamphlet closed and sets it apart from the ledgers. Paul’s confession has been accepted as a fact, while the Prefect keeps him under watch beside the shelves.
Quest Complete
Accept responsibility for the pamphlet