You sit at a scarred table inside the adventurers' guild, with Elle, a young elf woman of slight build, beside you. The shy, pale-skinned elf wears black goth clothes, her blond hair veiling part of her face.
A guild clerk approaches, dressed in a dark green waistcoat over a rumpled white shirt, an elderly man with a narrow build, ink-stained fingers, and spectacles chained to his gray beard. He sets down a wax-sealed contract.
A fresh bloodstain marks the seal, dark against the pale parchment. The written name beneath it is unmistakable: Elle.
guild clerk
A private commission, properly witnessed and already paid in advance. The patron insists that Elle receive it personally.
Elle
Why would anyone send this to me?
Elle's gloved hand hovers over the parchment without touching it. Around the hall, mugs pause halfway to mouths as several adventurers turn openly to watch.
guild clerk
I am required to record an answer now. Accept, refuse, or leave the contract sealed and walk away.
✓ Quest Accepted
Secure the commission
✓ Quest Accepted
Discover who sent the contract
“hey elle, dont worry, im here, we'll figure this quest out together”
SUCCESS (Fair Willpower, rolled +3)
Alex Nightshade
Hey, Elle, don't worry. I'm here. We'll figure this quest out together.
Elle's hovering hand settles on the parchment. The tension in her narrow shoulders eases, and the hall's muttering thins beneath the quiet certainty of your offer.
Elle
Together, then. I accept it.
The elderly clerk studies you both, then breaks the blood-marked seal with his ink-stained thumb. Inside lies a route sketch, a brass key, and a second note folded beneath them.
guild clerk
An excellent answer. The patron included these provisions after hearing you were present. The key opens a waystation beneath the old north watchtower.
Elle
He knew Alex would stand with me. That makes this less frightening, and far more deliberate.
Several adventurers look away, disappointed that fear has not separated you. The clerk records Elle's acceptance, while the brass key rests between your hands and hers.
Quest Complete
Secure the commission
+ New Item Acquired
Brass key