Reeve Anja Vey points to the scarred table. Guard Tessa draws the barred door shut and braces it while the marshal listens beyond the threshold, unseen.
Reeve Anja Vey
Place the ledger in the center. Pell, identify every altered entry, who ordered the diversion, and whether Mara’s warning was intercepted before it reached me.
The older official sets the ledger down with reluctant care. Ink-darkened pages show overwritten arrival times, a missing receiving-yard notation, and a second hand beside Pell’s initials.
Sir Ordan
The arrival time was changed after the cart appeared. I authorized the side passage, but the instruction came through a sealed memorandum bearing the marshal’s office mark.
Reeve Anja Vey
You said the passage was customary. Now you claim written authority. Name the memorandum, and explain why it never reached my desk.
Pell swallows and opens the ledger to a folded gap where a notice should rest. Mara watches him closely beside Edrin, while the older official keeps his hands visible.
Sir Ordan
The memorandum was removed before filing. I cannot say by whom. But its docket number matches the warning addressed to Reeve Vey, and someone marked it intercepted.
✓ Quest Accepted
Identify who intercepted Mara’s warning
Director's notewhole tale
I have nothing to say about this. I am silent and still, save for reaching down to run my fingers against Patters head again, trying to make sure the young fox doesn't get too antsy.
Octavius remains silent beneath the office’s cramped rafters, his fingers moving gently over Patter’s head. The young fox stays pressed against his boot, alert but quiet.
Reeve Anja Vey
A docket number does not explain a missing memorandum. Pell, who had access to the filing chest after the marshal’s office marked it received?
Sir Ordan
The older official held the key during the evening change of watch. I saw him carry the chest toward the side passage, but I assumed he served your instruction.
The Older Official
I carried no chest. Pell ordered me to clear the passage and told me the reeve had approved it.
Guard Tessa steps between the ledger and the older official, while Edrin keeps one hand near Brindle’s lead rope outside the barred door. Mara watches Pell without blinking.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, search the filing chest and summon the marshal’s clerk, not the marshal himself. No one enters until we know whose mark sealed that memorandum.
Guard Tessa
Understood. Reeve, the chest is in the records alcove. I will retrieve it under witness, and leave every paper in its place until you examine the contents.
✓ Quest Accepted
Determine whether Pell’s records aided the watchers
“Lady Reeve," While we wait for the return of the guard Tessa and the evidence, I raise my hand to gain the Reeve's attention. "I am not asking to be released from your witness, but my companion is.. a still young fox. I am uncertain how much longer I can keep him still and quiet. Would it be possible to allow Patter out? I'm concerned he could cause ... disruption, or potentially damage if he becomes too restless."”
SUCCESS (Superb Persuasion, rolled -1)
Octavius raises one hand beneath the cramped rafters, while the other continues stroking Patter’s head. The fox remains pressed to his boot, alert and increasingly restless.
Octavius
Lady Reeve, I am not asking to leave your witness, but Patter is still young. May I let him out? I fear he may become disruptive or damage something if kept still much longer.
Reeve Anja Vey looks from Octavius to the quiet fox, then measures the barred door, the crowded table, and the waiting records alcove.
Reeve Anja Vey
Yes. Keep him beside you and under control. He may stretch and settle, but he is not to roam the office.
Guard Tessa
I will make room by the wall. Nothing in the records alcove need be disturbed while I retrieve the chest.
Permission granted, Octavius lets Patter slip from beneath the canvas. The young fox stretches, shakes rain-damp fur from his shoulders, then settles beside Octavius’s boot as the room exhales.
“I am concerned." I admit, a vexed, vague frown settling on my features and knitting my brow together. "If he decides he wishes to play, I do not have the ability to stop it. I raised him, but he is still a wild animal at heart, not a dog I can command with a word. I could no more command the rain to stop, unless it had already decided to of its own accord.”
SUCCESS (Superb Persuasion, rolled +2)
Octavius
I am concerned. If Patter decides to play, I may not be able to stop him. I raised him, but he remains a wild animal, not a dog commanded by a word.
A vexed, vague frown knits Octavius’s brow. He reaches down again, running his fingers over Patter’s head as the young fox watches the crowded room.
Reeve Anja Vey
That is a fair warning. I would rather have the truth about his limits than a confident promise you cannot keep.
Guard Tessa
Then we will account for him as an animal, not a trained hound. I can keep this wall clear and protect the records.
Patter leans into Octavius’s hand, tail flicking once before settling. The room gives him space, and the fox remains beside the boot instead of ranging.
Reeve Anja Vey
Keep him close, and let him stretch if he needs to. Your honesty has settled the matter. Tessa, retrieve the chest when ready.
Beyond the barred door, the marshal’s muffled orders continue, but inside the office the tension eases enough for Guard Tessa to move toward the records alcove.
Director's notewhole tale
I kneel down, a pose that takes weight off of my bad hip, and I could hold with ease for hours. It also keeps me closer to the lanky almost-adult fox, keeping him occupied with small, light scratches and tickles beyond more than just the crown of his skull- If he got tired of attention on only that
Octavius lowers himself to one knee, easing weight from his injured hip. He remains silent beside Patter, scratching beneath the fox’s chin and along his ears.
Patter’s tail gives a slow sweep across the floor. His restless gaze follows Guard Guard Tessa toward the records alcove, but he stays close beneath Octavius’s steady fingers.
Guard Tessa
The chest is here. I will open it where all can see, and no paper will leave this room.
Guard Tessa returns carrying a narrow iron-banded chest. She sets it beside the ledger, checks the older official’s hands, and produces a ring of labeled keys.
Reeve Anja Vey
Begin with the marshal’s mark. If the memorandum was intercepted, its seal, docket, or filing cord may still tell us when.
Sir Ordan
If the memorandum remains there, the ledger will not be the only thing that condemns me.
The first key turns with a dry click. Octavius continues small scratches through Patter’s fur as the chest lid rises, revealing tied documents, empty spaces, and one blue-waxed packet tucked beneath them.
Director's notewhole tale
While my hand continues its wander around Patters head, neck, chest, and shoulders, keeping him engaged with the pleasurable sensations that never still, I study Pell Ordan closely, watching his hands for any tell that he might lunge in one direction or another. I know he's in hot water, and he know
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, his hand wandering in light scratches from crown to neck, chest, and shoulders. His eyes stay fixed on Pell’s hands.
Pell keeps both palms visible beside the ledger, but his right thumb rubs repeatedly against his forefinger whenever Guard Tessa touches a document.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, lift the packet without breaking its seal. Pell, do not move from that table.
Guard Tessa pinches the blue-waxed packet free. A narrow filing cord remains tied around it, bearing the marshal’s office mark and a fresh smear of black ink.
Sir Ordan
That packet was not there when I last examined the chest. Someone planted it after the memorandum vanished.
Patter leans into Octavius’s steady tickling, tail sweeping once across the boards. Pell’s shoulders tense, and his left hand edges toward the ledger’s folded gap.
Guard Tessa
Your hand, Pell. Keep it where I can see it. Reeve, the seal is unbroken, but this cord was tied recently.
Director's note
Nothing in my actions change. I listen, and watch Pell, ready to act if he gets any 'bright' ideas
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, his injured hip relieved by the pose. His fingers travel in light scratches from the fox’s crown along neck, chest, and shoulders.
Patter leans into the shifting attention, tail brushing the boards in a slow rhythm. Patter watches the table, but stays anchored beside Octavius’s boot.
Octavius says nothing. His attention stays on Pell’s hands, tracking every twitch while Pell Ordan stands confined beside the ledger and the sealed packet.
Sir Ordan
I am not reaching for anything. Guard Tessa has made that clear, and I have no wish to worsen my position.
Pell’s right thumb stops rubbing against his forefinger, then resumes more slowly. His gaze flicks toward the packet before returning to Reeve Anja Vey.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your position worsens whenever your account changes. Tessa, leave the packet sealed and inspect the cord beneath the wax.
Guard Tessa bends over the packet without disturbing the seal. Patter’s ears twitch at the faint scrape of cord against paper, but Octavius’s steady touch keeps him settled.
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Guard Guard Tessa turns the packet beneath the lamplight, tracing the cord’s fresh knot with a small brass probe. The blue wax remains unbroken.
Guard Tessa
The cord was retied after sealing. Beneath the knot is a second mark, scratched into the wax and partly covered.
Reeve Anja Vey leans closer without touching the packet. Pell Ordan’s right hand stiffens beside the ledger, fingers spread as though resisting an impulse.
Reeve Anja Vey
Describe the mark, Tessa. Do not break the seal until we know whether this packet belongs in my records.
Guard Tessa
A narrow tower crossed by three short lines. It is not the marshal’s office mark, and it was added after the wax cooled.
Patter settles beneath Octavius’s wandering fingers, receiving quiet scratches along his neck and shoulders. Octavius watches Pell Ordan, whose gaze fixes on the packet again.
Sir Ordan
That is not evidence of my doing. Anyone handling the chest could have marked it, and you have no proof I knew the packet was there.
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, easing his injured hip while his fingers wander in light scratches from the fox’s crown to his neck, chest, and shoulders.
Patter relaxes beneath the steady attention, tail brushing the boards. Octavius watches Pell’s hands without moving, tracking every twitch beside the ledger.
Reeve Anja Vey
No one accused you yet, Pell. Tessa, compare that tower mark with the seals and symbols in the chest.
Guard Tessa searches the opened records while keeping one hand near the packet. Pell’s fingers curl once, then flatten against the table under Anja’s stare.
Guard Tessa
Here. A copied tower mark appears beside three intercepted notices, each concerning arrivals from the eastern road. None reached the reeve.
Sir Ordan
Those entries prove only that notices went missing. They do not prove I intercepted them, or that this packet belongs to me.
Reeve Anja Vey
Then we will open it under witness. Tessa, record the seal, the cord, and every word inside. Pell, keep your hands visible.
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, one hand moving in gentle scratches from the fox’s crown along his neck, chest, and shoulders. His attention stays fixed on Pell’s hands.
Patter’s tail brushes the boards in a slow rhythm. Pell stands rigid beside the ledger, his fingers spread visibly while Guard Tessa positions the packet beneath the lamplight.
Guard Tessa
The seal is intact. I will break it now, with the reeve and every witness watching.
Tessa cuts the filing cord, then lifts the blue-waxed packet toward Anja before opening it. Pell’s right hand twitches toward the ledger’s folded gap, but stops.
Reeve Anja Vey
Pell, keep both hands flat. Tessa, read the contents aloud and preserve the order of every page.
Guard Tessa
The first page names three eastern arrivals, including Mara’s party. Beside each is an instruction to divert them before they reach your receiving yard.
Pell’s face loses color. Patter presses into Octavius’s continuing touch, while Anja turns the page herself and finds a final line bearing Pell’s initials.
Quest Complete
Determine whether Pell’s records aided the watchers
Skill Upgrade: Persuasion Superb→Legendary
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, his fingers wandering in light scratches from crown to neck, chest, and shoulders. His gaze never leaves Pell Ordan’s hands.
Guard Tessa
The final line reads: “Upon arrival, divert the cart under clerk authority. Confirm receipt by mark of Pell Ordan.” His initials follow.
Patter’s tail brushes the boards as Octavius’s hand keeps him settled. Pell Ordan’s fingers flatten against the table, but his eyes dart toward the barred door.
Sir Ordan
That line could have been added after the fact. My initials are easy enough to copy, and the packet was already tampered with.
Reeve Anja Vey
The instruction names your authority, matches your diversion, and concerns three missing arrivals. Tessa, compare the handwriting with Pell’s ledger entries.
Guard Tessa lays the packet beside the ledger and studies both under the lamplight. The older official leans forward, then stops when her hand moves toward her sword.
Guard Tessa
The hand is not Pell’s. But the initials were added by the same person who altered the arrival times. Reeve, someone used his authority deliberately.
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, easing his injured hip. His fingers wander in light scratches from the fox’s crown along his neck, chest, and shoulders, never quite still.
His gaze stays on Pell’s hands. Pell Ordan stands rigid beside the table, while Guard Tessa keeps the packet and ledger beneath the lamplight.
Reeve Anja Vey
Then the initials were borrowed, not written by Pell. Tessa, who altered the arrival times, and who had access to this packet?
Guard Tessa
The same hand altered the ledger after the cart arrived. The packet was placed in the filing chest, but its cord was retied afterward.
Patter leans into Octavius’s continuing touch, tail brushing the boards. Pell’s fingers remain flat, though his eyes flick toward the older official and then the barred door.
The Older Official
I had the chest key during the evening watch, but Pell ordered the passage cleared. I never opened the chest, and I never saw that packet.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, search the older official and secure the chest. Pell remains at the table. If either man moves without permission, bar them separately.
Director's note
I stay quiet, watching cautiously
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, easing his injured hip while his fingers travel from the fox’s crown along his neck, chest, and shoulders. His attention never leaves Pell’s hands.
Guard Tessa circles the older official, keeping him beneath the lamplight. Reeve Anja watches the search while Pell stands rigid beside the table, both palms pressed flat.
The Older Official
There is no need for this. I carried the key because I was assigned the evening watch, not because I served the watchers.
Guard Tessa
Then you will not object to being searched. Raise your arms, and keep your eyes on the reeve.
Tessa finds a small iron key, a folded strip of blue cord, and black sealing wax beneath the older official’s surcoat. The wax matches the smear on the packet.
Reeve Anja Vey
You claimed you never opened the chest. Explain the cord and wax before I decide whether the marshal hears this through the door.
Patter settles more heavily against Octavius’s knee, soothed by the wandering scratches. Pell’s right thumb twitches toward the ledger, then stills beneath Anja’s fixed stare.
Director's notewhole tale
I stay quiet, watching cautiously. Though later I should suggest that the wax may match the same on the fabric Patter had found by the camp. Later.
The Older Official
The wax is for routine gate seals. The cord is spare. I carried both because the evening watch requires repairs and resealing.
Guard Tessa
Routine seals do not explain why your wax matches the packet, or why your cord matches its fresh knot.
The older official’s jaw works as he glances toward Pell. Pell remains rigid, palms flat, while Octavius’s fingers wander through Patter’s fur, keeping the fox settled beside his knee.
Reeve Anja Vey
You carried the key, the matching wax, and the cord used to retie an intercepted packet. That is no longer a collection of harmless duties.
The Older Official
Pell gave me the packet after the cart arrived. He said the reeve had ordered its removal from the chest. I did not read it.
Sir Ordan
He is lying to save himself. I told him only to clear the passage, and he had the key before I ever touched the ledger.
Guard Tessa steps between the men and secures the iron key in her palm. Patter’s tail sweeps the boards once, then stills beneath Octavius’s continuing scratches.
“...Lady Reeve, may I speak?" I ask gingerly, finally letting my eyes leave Pell to move towards Anja. "I ... may be noticing a pattern I had not realized before.”
SUCCESS (Great Reasoning, rolled -2)
Octavius
Lady Reeve, may I speak? I may be noticing a pattern I had not realized before.
Octavius finally shifts his gaze from Pell to Reeve Anja Vey, remaining kneeling beside Patter. His fingers continue light scratches along the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders.
Reeve Anja Vey
You may. State the pattern plainly, and distinguish what you observed from what you infer.
Octavius
The diversions, altered entries, and intercepted packet all use legitimate authority as their cover. Each step redirects arrivals before they reach you, while leaving someone else to claim an instruction.
The insight assembles the scattered evidence: Pell’s authority, the older official’s key, and the marshal’s mark form a repeated chain of misdirection. Yet the exact order of their cooperation remains uncertain.
Reeve Anja Vey
Yes. The pattern is not merely theft of notices. It is controlled diversion, with each participant able to blame the authority above him.
Sir Ordan
That is speculation. I followed instructions given through the gatehouse, as any clerk would.
“The wax we found on the torn cloth outside our camp... It had a slightly different texture than the wax that sealed your notice. Does this wax also feel different to you? What if the bandits trying to intercept the message wanted to plant a false missive in its place? I am concerned that this flaw may run deeper into the core of this stone than it first seemed.”
SUCCESS (Superb Perception, rolled +1)
Octavius
The wax on the torn cloth felt slightly different from the wax sealing your notice. Does this packet’s wax differ as well? What if the bandits meant to replace the true message with a false one? This flaw may run deeper into Dunmere’s core than we thought.
Still kneeling beside Patter, Octavius keeps his fingers moving over the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders while studying Pell’s hands. The torn cloth lies within reach on the table.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, compare all three without damaging the packet. The cloth, my notice, and the packet seal. Record texture, hardness, and any difference in preparation.
Guard Tessa places the cloth beside the blue-waxed packet, then borrows Anja’s notice and examines each seal beneath the lamplight. Patter remains settled against Octavius’s knee.
Guard Tessa
He is right. The cloth wax is softer and grainier, while the packet wax matches the reeve’s notice. The packet was sealed with legitimate wax, but the cord was replaced afterward.
Reeve Anja Vey
Then a false missive could have been prepared to resemble mine, though this packet is genuine. The interception was designed to control which message reached me, not merely to steal it.
Pell’s fingers tense against the table before flattening again. Anja’s attention shifts from the packet to him, while Octavius continues the quiet scratches that keep Patter calm.
“"Forgive my boldness, but if we find the prepared missive... We may also find a lead towards how far this goes. While certainly the bandits that followed us have a copy, there could be one here as well. Why else would Mara have been diverted away from the main... er.. receiving place?”
SUCCESS (Great Reasoning, rolled +2)
Octavius
Forgive my boldness, but if we find the prepared missive, it may reveal how far this reaches. The bandits may have a copy, but there could be one here as well. Why else divert Mara from the proper receiving yard?
Still kneeling beside Patter, Octavius keeps his fingers moving through the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders. His gaze remains fixed on Pell’s hands as the room absorbs the implication.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, search for a concealed draft or duplicate. Check the filing chest, the diversion notes, and the side-passage records. If a false missive exists, we will find it here.
Guard Tessa
There is a false bottom beneath the eastern-road records. Reeve, I have found a second packet wrapped in oilcloth, hidden below the ordinary files.
Tessa draws out the packet and sets it beneath the lamplight. Its blue wax bears a copied reeve’s seal, while the paper lists Mara’s arrival and orders her diverted before Anja can receive her.
Sir Ordan
That is not mine. I never saw it, and the false seal proves only that someone wanted the gatehouse blamed.
Reeve Anja Vey
It proves someone prepared a replacement message inside my gatehouse. Tessa, preserve it. Pell, the search now extends to every person with access to this chest.
“Lady Reeve, I know I have no right to be heeded, but I do feel as part of the wronged party... my instincts are telling me that sir Ordan is more likely to have been exploited than a knowing participant. I... am finding myself less convinced of his malice, and more convinced that he's being used in much the same way the master-whatever-it-was' signature was being used. He is the arrow being fired, not the hand choosing the target. And an arrow rarely has any say about its path.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +2)
Octavius
Lady Reeve, I know I have no right to be heeded, but I believe Pell may have been exploited rather than knowingly involved.
Octavius
He may be the arrow being fired, not the hand choosing the target. Someone used his authority as they used the master’s signature, while steering him toward their aim.
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, fingers wandering through the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders. His eyes stay on Pell’s hands, ready for any sudden movement.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your instinct has merit. The forged seal and borrowed initials point toward someone exploiting Pell’s position, not necessarily acting with his knowledge.
Sir Ordan
Reeve, I did not understand what my instructions enabled. I thought I was following a chain of authority, not directing an attack.
Reeve Anja Vey
That does not absolve you, Pell, but it changes the question. Tessa, investigate who fed him those instructions and who benefited from his obedience.
Guard Tessa secures the false packet beside the genuine one. Pell’s shoulders sag, while the older official watches him with renewed suspicion and Patter settles beneath Octavius’s steady touch.
✓ Quest Accepted
Identify who exploited Pell’s authority
− Scene Quest Removed
Identify who intercepted Mara’s warning
“I don't know what form your justice takes, but where I come from, it is believed that whatever result is chosen, it must heal both the victim, and the offender. If Pell has aided the corruption unknowingly, I cannot ask him to be punished any more harshly than I was for accepting the advice of the greenwarden about an ambush ahead. I had no knowledge of their subversive actions to you, and even if I acted wrongly, it was from ignorance. As I believe sir Ordens offence likewise stems from." I take a deep breath, becoming uneasy with the extended stream of thought, "I hold no ill will towards him for the part he may have played in this, and I ask you to take that into consideration when deciding his fate.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled -2)
Octavius
I do not know your form of justice, Reeve, but where I come from, justice should heal both victim and offender. If Pell aided corruption unknowingly, punish him no more harshly than I was punished for accepting Greenwarden advice in ignorance. I hold no ill will toward him, and ask you to consider that when deciding his fate.
Octavius takes a deep breath and lowers his gaze, still kneeling beside Patter. His fingers continue their light passage over the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders, while his eyes return to Pell’s hands.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your plea is heard, Octavius. Pell will answer for his negligence, but I will not treat ignorance as conspiracy without proof. His punishment will aim at repair, not mere suffering.
Sir Ordan
I will make whatever restitution Dunmere requires. I did not understand the harm, but I understand it now.
Reeve Anja Vey
Then you will help uncover who used your authority, surrender your records, and testify before my marshal. Octavius, by speaking for him, you have placed your judgment on record as well.
The cost settles plainly: Anja now expects Octavius to stand behind this distinction if Pell’s testimony becomes contested. Pell’s hands remain visible, and Patter stays calm beneath the steady scratches.
“I stand by it, Lady Reeve." I answer, giving a firm nod even from my lowered, kneeling position. This obviously places me in a position of subservience that (while incidental) may hopefully subconsciously reassure the Reeve that my intent is for her service, not against it. "And if new information changes my opinion, I hope I would be permitted to say so just as candidly. There is a saying where I come from, 'not my farm, not my onions', that means ... I have no stake in Pells well-being beyond my own conscience. I would no more profit from his punishment as I would from his exoneration, except as my heart tells me is true.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +1)
Octavius
I stand by it, Lady Reeve. If new information changes my opinion, I hope I may say so just as candidly. I have no stake in Pell’s fate beyond my conscience, and would profit neither from his punishment nor his exoneration.
Octavius gives a firm nod from his kneeling position, keeping his weight off his injured hip. His hand continues light scratches over Patter’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders while his eyes watch Pell’s hands.
Reeve Anja Vey
You may speak candidly, Octavius. Your position is clear, and your lack of personal stake strengthens rather than weakens your testimony.
Sir Ordan
Then I ask that the same fairness be shown to me. I will answer what I know, even if the answer leaves me ashamed.
Patter leans into the wandering attention, tail brushing the boards in a slow rhythm. Pell keeps both hands visible beside the ledger, though his gaze drops beneath the reeve’s scrutiny.
Reeve Anja Vey
You have my word that new evidence will change the judgment where it must. Tessa, continue the inquiry. Pell, begin with every instruction you received before the cart arrived.
Guard Tessa opens a fresh sheet beside the genuine and false packets. The office settles into careful silence, while Octavius remains still, attentive, and ready to respond if Pell makes a sudden move.
Director's note
I shift my gaze from the Reeve to Pell, waiting to catch his attention even if fleetingly. I want to look him straight in the face and try to discern any hint of dishonesty or other micro expression that might lend me insight on him
Octavius remains kneeling beside Patter, his injured hip eased by the pose. His fingers wander in light scratches from the fox’s head down his neck, chest, and shoulders.
Patter leans into the attention, tail brushing the floor. Octavius watches Pell’s hands, then lifts his gaze to meet the clerk’s face, searching for any fleeting sign of deceit.
Reeve Anja Vey
Begin with the first instruction, Pell. Who delivered it, what authority did it claim, and when did you receive it?
Sir Ordan
A sealed note arrived before dawn, carried by a gate runner. It bore the marshal’s mark and ordered me to delay eastern arrivals, especially any cart connected to Mara Venn.
Pell meets Octavius’s stare for only a breath before looking down. His left hand remains flat, but his right thumb presses hard into the ledger’s edge.
Guard Tessa
Name the runner. Was it one of the marshal’s clerks, or someone wearing the office colors?
Sir Ordan
I never saw his face clearly. He wore a rain cloak and kept the hood drawn. I accepted the seal because the instructions matched the mark.
“...My lady, may I ask sir Pell some questions as well, or would that overstep my place in this room?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +2)
Octavius
My lady, may I ask Sir Pell some questions as well, or would that overstep my place in this room?
Octavius keeps kneeling beside Patter, fingers wandering from the fox’s head down his neck, chest, and shoulders. His gaze remains fixed on Pell’s face and hands.
Reeve Anja Vey
You may question him. Keep your questions precise, and distinguish what you observed from what you suspect. Pell, answer him fully.
Sir Ordan
I will answer. I have little enough to hide now, though I cannot promise the answers will make me look wise.
Pell meets Octavius’s eyes again. His expression is strained, but his hands remain visible beside the ledger, right thumb pressing against its worn edge.
Guard Tessa
Ask him who knew Mara’s name before the note arrived. That detail may separate the marshal’s orders from whoever prepared the diversion.
Reeve Anja Vey
Begin when ready, Octavius. The room will remain silent while you question him.
“Sir Pell, without moving your right hand from where it is now, can you explain why it is there?" I ask, raising myself to standing with a grunt that sounds more like a middle aged dad getting off of the couch than someone who looks a young 30. "Your thumb has constantly edged towards that place in the ledger since it was placed on the table.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +1)
Octavius
Sir Pell, without moving your right hand from where it is now, can you explain why it is there? Your thumb keeps edging toward that place in the ledger.
Octavius rises with a rough grunt, one hand briefly leaving Patter’s fur. He keeps his eyes on Pell Ordan’s face and the hand beside the ledger.
Sir Ordan
Because that folded gap is where the first instruction was hidden. I meant to cover it before anyone noticed.
The admission settles over the cramped office. Pell Ordan’s right hand remains exactly where it was, hovering beside the ledger’s worn fold.
Reeve Anja Vey
You said you had little to hide. Now explain what was hidden there, and why you feared Octavius would notice it.
Sir Ordan
The gate runner’s note named Mara and ordered me to record her arrival, then conceal the diversion until the marshal confirmed receipt. I kept it because I feared disobeying either authority.
Guard Tessa reaches for the ledger only after Reeve Anja Vey nods. Beneath the folded gap, a narrow indentation marks where paper was removed, while Patter presses against Octavius’s boot.
“'Either authority'?" I repeat, my voice lifting questioning. "As in whom?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled -2)
Octavius
Either authority? As in whom?
Octavius repeats the question, his voice lifting just enough to demand precision. He kneels again beside Patter, fingers wandering from Patter’s head along his neck and chest while he studies Pell Ordan’s face and hands.
Sir Ordan
The marshal’s office and Reeve Vey. The note bore the marshal’s mark, but it ordered me to conceal the diversion until the reeve confirmed receipt.
Pell Ordan holds Octavius’s gaze for a strained moment before looking down. His right thumb presses hard into the ledger’s edge, exposing that he understood the contradiction before anyone asked.
Sir Ordan
I feared obeying the marshal would make me a traitor to the reeve, while obeying her openly might make me a traitor to the marshal. So I hid the note and obeyed both halfway.
Reeve Anja Vey
There were not two authorities, Pell. There was one forged command wearing one office’s mark and exploiting your fear of the other. Your answer gives me the chain, but it also makes your concealment deliberate.
Guard Tessa marks the admission beside the ledger’s missing space. Pell Ordan’s standing worsens in the room, even as his answer identifies the marshal’s office as the claimed source.
“My Lady... I beg your forbearance.. Would this not be like a barmaid being told to break a guild standard or risk being fired and shamed until unable to find other work anywhere? If there is no one in this room who has ever been pressured to make a 'small' lapse in rules to protect their livelihood or wellbeing... then I fear there are none in this room who could fairly judge him for it.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
My lady, I beg your forbearance. Is this not like a barmaid pressured to break a guild rule or lose her livelihood and standing? If none here has faced such pressure, I fear none can judge Pell fairly.
Octavius remains standing, hands away from Patter, his attention moving between Reeve Anja Vey and Pell Ordan Ordan. Patter stays close at his boots as he studies Pell Ordan’s face and hands.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your comparison is sound. Fear of ruin can make an ordinary worker conceal a small breach without grasping the larger crime it serves.
Reeve Anja Vey
Pell will answer for the concealment and repair its harm, but I will not judge him as the scheme’s architect without proof. I grant him forbearance in sentencing.
Sir Ordan
Thank you, Octavius. I cannot call my concealment right, but I will tell you everything I remember and help undo what it enabled.
Pell Ordan’s shoulders lower, though both hands remain visible beside the ledger. Guard Tessa records the reeve’s judgment, and the room’s sternness shifts from punishment toward restitution.
“Do not yet thank me, sir Ordan. I do not believe you are innocent of all wrong, but I feel equally that you do not deserve to suffer for wrongs you did not conspire for. Do you recognize the tampered wax? Feeling it, do you remember noticing it on anything before today?”
SUCCESS (Superb Perception, rolled +2)
Octavius
Do not thank me yet, sir Ordan. I do not believe you innocent of every wrong, but you should not suffer for wrongs you did not conspire to commit. Do you recognize the tampered wax? Feeling it, do you remember noticing it on anything before today?
Octavius remains standing, hands away from Patter as the young fox stays close to his boots. He studies Pell’s face and visible hands, watching for any sudden intent.
Sir Ordan
I recognize the mixture, though not this seal. The softer, grainier wax appeared on three memoranda delivered from the marshal’s office before dawn.
Sir Ordan
It crumbled slightly beneath their filing cords. I noticed the difference and thought urgent orders used another batch. I did not understand its significance until now.
Pell holds Octavius’s gaze longer this time. His hands remain visible beside the ledger, but his right thumb presses hard into its worn edge.
Reeve Anja Vey
That matters. Tessa, record those memoranda and their dates. Pell, identify where you filed them, and we will determine whether those entries remain.
Sir Ordan
I remember two dates clearly, and a third by the rain that morning. I will show you the entries, if they have not been altered as well.
“Lady Reeve," I turn my attention to her, "Would it be possible for me to ask what those dates are? If they could align with the harassment we faced on the road, that could help us narrow down where this stems from”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Lady Reeve, would it be possible for me to ask what those dates are? If they align with the harassment we faced, they may narrow where this stems from.
Octavius kneels beside Patter, easing his injured hip. His fingers wander through the fox’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders while his gaze shifts from Anja to Pell’s face and hands.
Reeve Anja Vey
Yes. The first memorandum arrived three mornings before Mara reached your camp, during the rain that closed the lower road.
Reeve Anja Vey
The second came the following dawn, when the eastern watchers began probing travelers near the ridge fork. The third arrived on the morning your party entered Dunmere.
Sir Ordan
The first ordered eastern arrivals delayed. The second named a safer route that was not safe at all. The third instructed me to divert Mara’s cart before the receiving yard.
The dates align with the camp harassment, the compromised crossing, and the attempted diversion at Dunmere. Pell’s right thumb presses into the ledger’s edge, but he makes no move.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your road account now gives us a sequence, Octavius. Tessa, mark those dates against every eastern-road report and summon the marshal’s clerk.
Director's note
I am not kneeling, I have been standing for several minutes now, and I am not watching Pells hands suspiciously. I am studying his face for any sign of withheld information or deceit.
“"Sir Ordan, with all of this as context.. Can you think of anyone who seems to have a hand in more than one piece of this? One random person could be coincidence. Twice would be a reason to notice. Three or more connections, could be a part of a spiders web we want to know the size of."”
SUCCESS (Great Reasoning, rolled -1)
Octavius
Sir Ordan, with all of this as context, can you think of anyone who touches more than one piece of this? One connection may be chance. Three may be a web.
Octavius remains standing near Patter, one hand moving in light scratches from the fox’s head to neck and chest. His gaze fixes on Pell’s face, searching for withheld knowledge.
Sir Ordan
There is one name I kept avoiding. Hadrik Seln, the marshal’s deputy clerk. He delivered the first memorandum, vouched for the second route, and knew Mara’s name before I did.
Pell’s mouth tightens as he recalls the name, then his expression falters. The admission gives the inquiry its first repeated human link, but the office must now verify his account.
Sir Ordan
Hadrik also collected the eastern-road reports after each watch. He never entered the receiving yard, but every instruction passed through hands he could reach.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, mark Hadrik Seln as a person of interest and summon the marshal’s clerk. We will compare his access against these dates before accusing him.
The comparison will take time, and Pell cannot identify whether Hadrik acted alone or carried another’s orders. Still, three connections now point toward the same deputy clerk.
✓ Quest Accepted
Verify Hadrik Seln’s role in the diversion
− Scene Quest Removed
Identify who exploited Pell’s authority
“Sir Ordan," I attempt to gentle my tone with a deep breath, openly acknowledging the potential significance of this information, even if -I- have no idea who this name belongs to. "I'm not sure what this means, but regardless of where this goes, thank you for helping them figure out where this comes from. I don't know how much that might mean to you, but frankly I could see myself respecting you if you're being as honest as you seem.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Sir Ordan, I am not sure what this means, but thank you for helping them find where this comes from. I do not know how much that means to you, but I could see myself respecting you if you are being as honest as you seem.
Octavius lowers himself to one knee beside Patter, easing his injured hip. His fingers continue wandering from Patter’s head along his neck, chest, and shoulders while his gaze studies Pell Ordan’s face.
Sir Ordan
It means more than I expected to hear. I have made enough mistakes that honesty feels less like virtue and more like the last useful thing I possess.
Sir Ordan
I am not asking you to call me innocent. But I will give you everything I know about Hadrik Seln, even if it proves I should have questioned him sooner.
Patter settles against Octavius’s knee, tail brushing the boards. Pell Ordan keeps his hands visible, but his face no longer avoids the scrutiny.
Reeve Anja Vey
That is the distinction we need. Octavius has offered respect conditionally, and you have answered with accountability. Tessa, record both statements.
Guard Tessa
Recorded, Reeve. I will prepare the questions concerning Hadrik Seln and the three memoranda.
“Sir Ordan," I ask his attention once more, then turn mine to the Reeve, "And Lady Reeve," I ask hers as well before looking back to Pell, "If we ever find ourselves in the same time and place, let me buy the first round of drinks." I shift my gaze back to Reeve Anja, thinking back to my prior mention of circle justice and the purpose of justice being to rehabilitate both victim and offender. "I stand by that, as well, should my respect towards him prove deserved.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Sir Ordan, and Lady Reeve, may I have your attention once more? If we meet again in the same time and place, let me buy the first round of drinks.
Octavius remains standing beside Patter, one hand moving in light scratches from the fox’s head along his neck, chest, and shoulders. His gaze settles directly on Pell’s face.
Octavius
Lady Reeve, I stand by what I said about justice rehabilitating both victim and offender, should my respect for Pell prove deserved.
Sir Ordan
Then I hope I live long enough to accept that drink. I will work to deserve the respect you have offered conditionally.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your position is consistent, Octavius. You offer fellowship without excusing wrongdoing, and mercy without abandoning accountability.
Patter leans into the shifting touch, tail brushing the boards. Pell holds Octavius’s gaze, and the shame in his face gives way to a steadier resolve.
Reeve Anja Vey
If Pell proves honest, I will remember your judgment when restitution is decided. Tessa, continue recording. We will find Hadrik Seln’s part in this.
“Sir Ordan," I turn my focus back to him, immediately aware of my lapse in formality. "You have not earned my disrespect, please forgive my ... informality by using your personal name." I am not above giving a bend forward, more in the spine than the hip due to that stiffness there. "Lady Reeve, if sir Ordan proves honest, may I be granted the opportunity to speak with him again in the future?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +2)
Octavius
Sir Ordan, you have not earned my disrespect. Please forgive my informality in calling you Pell. Lady Reeve, if Sir Ordan proves honest, may I speak with him again in the future?
Octavius turns his focus fully to Pell, then bends forward from the spine rather than the stiffened hip. He straightens beside Patter, remaining on his feet.
His hand returns to Patter’s head, neck, chest, and shoulders, giving the young fox small, wandering scratches while Octavius studies Pell’s face for deceit.
Reeve Anja Vey
Granted. If Sir Ordan proves honest, you may speak with him again. I will permit that fellowship without confusing it with interference in my inquiry.
Sir Ordan
I accept your apology, Octavius. If I prove worthy of that future conversation, I will meet you plainly, without hiding behind a title.
Pell holds Octavius’s gaze, his expression strained but steadier. His hands remain visible beside the ledger, and no sudden movement breaks the room’s fragile calm.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, record that permission. Now continue with Hadrik Seln and every order Sir Ordan carried.
Director's notewhole tale
I try to quell Patters growing restlessness by tickling my fingertips against the whiskers by his nose, trying to incite him to focus his energy on nipping at my calloused fingers that are used to doing this, my main focus on Pell Ordan, who I exclusively refer to as 'sir Ordan' when adressing him o
Octavius remains standing beside Patter, one hand wandering from the fox’s whiskers across his head, neck, chest, and shoulders. His attention stays fixed on Pell’s face.
Guard Tessa
Sir Ordan, describe Hadrik Seln’s appearance, his usual duties, and every place he could reach without attracting notice.
Sir Ordan
Hadrik is a lean middle-aged man with thinning red-brown hair and a narrow scar beneath his left eye. He carries marshal’s records between the gatehouse, barracks, and eastern watch.
Patter noses at Octavius’s fingertips, restless energy narrowing into playful attention. Pell keeps his hands visible, but his face tightens when Hadrik’s access is listed.
Reeve Anja Vey
What did Hadrik know about Mara before the first memorandum? Do not give me what you assume. Give me what he said or did.
Sir Ordan
He asked whether the reeve still received sealed notices from eastern travelers. When I mentioned no names, he supplied Mara’s himself, then claimed the marshal’s office had warned him.
Pell finally meets Octavius’s gaze. The look lasts only a moment, but fear moves across his face before he lowers his eyes to the ledger again.
Director's notewhole tale
I try to quell Patters growing restlessness by tickling my fingertips against the whiskers by his nose, trying to incite him to focus his energy on nipping at my calloused fingers that are used to doing this, my main focus on Pell Ordan, who I exclusively refer to as 'sir Ordan' when addressing him
Octavius remains standing beside Patter, fingertips teasing the fox’s whiskers until the restless animal catches them in gentle, playful nips. His attention stays on Pell’s face.
Guard Tessa
You said Hadrik supplied Mara’s name before any warning reached you. What exactly did he ask next?
Sir Ordan
He asked whether she had arrived, whether she traveled with a peddler, and whether the reeve would recognize her seal. I answered nothing useful.
Patter’s energy narrows into the game beneath Octavius’s hand. Pell’s expression holds, but a faint tightening beside his scar betrays the memory’s weight.
Reeve Anja Vey
Did Hadrik know Edrin’s name, Pell? Or did he learn only that Mara might use another traveler’s cart?
Sir Ordan
He knew Edrin’s name. He called the cart a useful shield, then corrected himself and said a useful route-marker. I thought it was poor humor.
Pell’s eyes meet Octavius’s for a strained instant. His fear is plain, but so is the effort to distinguish what he witnessed from what he now suspects.
Reeve Anja Vey
Tessa, record that phrasing exactly. Hadrik knew Mara, Edrin, and the cart before Pell received the first memorandum. Summon him under lawful authority.
“Sir Ordan," I glance to the lady Reeve to reassure myself that I have continued permission to interject, and only speak if it seems like I do. "Did the information include me? Because if not, I could still be a relative unknown to the larger conspiracy." I glance again to the Reeve before back to sir Ordan, "is it possible that my interruption and the contact with the Greenwardens could paint me as a potential subversive agent? Because that could prove very useful if so.”
SUCCESS (Great Reasoning, rolled +0)
Octavius glances to Reeve Anja Vey. Her measured attention remains on him, permission enough. He turns to Pell, fingertips teasing Patter’s whiskers into gentle nips while he studies the clerk’s face.
Octavius
Sir Ordan, did the information include me? If not, I may still be unknown to the larger conspiracy. Could my interruption and contact with the Greenwardens make me appear a potential subversive agent, and prove useful?
Sir Ordan
No. Your name was not in Hadrik’s questions or the memoranda I saw. He knew Mara, Edrin, and the cart, but not you.
Patter catches Octavius’s fingers again, keeping his restless energy focused. Pell holds Octavius’s gaze longer than before, his hands visible and still beside the ledger.
Sir Ordan
But yes, your circumstances could serve that appearance. A stranger aiding Greenwardens, then speaking against gate authority, might look like a useful agent to whoever watches for subversion.
Reeve Anja Vey
It could be useful, but only if controlled. You are not named in the evidence, Octavius. I will not manufacture suspicion, yet Hadrik may reveal whether your unknown status can draw his attention.
Pell’s face tightens at the possibility, while Anja’s expression remains deliberate. The distinction is clear: Octavius is not known to the conspiracy, but his visible circumstances could become a credible lure.
“Lady Reeve," I shift my weight, turning my body to face her since I have difficulty shifting at the hip. "Would you trust me enough to try to unravel this thread from that 'double agent' angle, or would you prefer if I sit down and let you handle business? I'm willing, but only as much as you believe that I'm willing.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Lady Reeve, would you trust me enough to unravel this thread from the double-agent angle, or would you prefer I sit down and let you handle business? I am willing, but only as much as you believe I am.
Octavius shifts his weight carefully, turning his whole body toward Anja rather than twisting at the hip. His fingertips keep Patter focused on gentle nips while his eyes remain on Pell’s face.
Reeve Anja Vey
I trust you enough to pursue it under my authority. You will question, observe, and report, but you will not confront Hadrik or pursue anyone beyond this room without my consent.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your unfamiliarity may draw out whoever believes Greenwarden sympathizers are involved. I will use that advantage carefully, and I will not offer you as bait without your agreement.
Sir Ordan
If Hadrik sees you as an unknown agent, he may reveal more than he intended. I can explain what he expects gate clerks to fear, provided you keep me beside the record.
Anja’s decision gives Octavius a defined place in the inquiry, while Pell’s guarded face shows reluctant recognition of the risk. Patter’s restless energy stays contained against Octavius’s hand.
“My lady Reeve," I bow again, and again it is an awkward curve of my spine rather than at the hip to avoid aggravating aches that have accumulated unrested since the party's descent from the ridgeline. "May I ask for a private audience later on the matter?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius bows again, curving from his spine rather than his aching hip. His fingertips keep Patter engaged in gentle nips while his attention remains fixed on Pell Ordan’s face.
Octavius
My lady Reeve, may I ask for a private audience later on this matter?
Anja studies him for a measured moment. Across the table, Pell’s expression tightens, then settles beneath Octavius’s direct scrutiny.
Reeve Anja Vey
Yes. After Tessa records Hadrik’s connections, I will meet you privately. You have earned that consideration, and I expect the matter to remain within my authority.
Sir Ordan
If the private matter concerns my part in this, Sir Ordan’s account is yours to hear. I will not hide behind silence again.
Patter catches Octavius’s calloused fingers in another playful nip. Pell holds Octavius’s gaze, but a brief flicker of apprehension crosses his face before he looks toward the ledger.
Reeve Anja Vey
Then it is settled. Tessa, continue the record. Octavius, you will have your audience when these immediate statements are secured.
“Sir Ordan," I let him hold my gaze, speaking honestly, "I have no intent to speak of you, ill or otherwise. You have my word on that, unless the topic shifts unexpectedly. I've said I see no reason to treat you as anything but an equal. That hasn't changed. I see no worth in holding a grudge for something I do not see you as responsible nor culpable for.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Sir Ordan, I have no intent to speak of you, ill or otherwise. You have my word, unless the topic shifts unexpectedly. I see no reason to treat you as anything but an equal. That has not changed. I hold no grudge for what I do not see you as responsible or culpable for.
Octavius remains standing, his fingertips teasing Patter’s whiskers until the young fox nips playfully at his calloused fingers. His attention stays on Pell’s face.
Sir Ordan
Then I believe you, Sir Ordan. Not because I deserve such generosity, but because you have shown me no false kindness.
Pell’s guarded expression loosens. Shame remains around his eyes, yet the evasive tension leaves his mouth, and he meets Octavius’s gaze without flinching.
Reeve Anja Vey
Your assurance has been heard, Pell. Let it strengthen your honesty, not purchase your comfort. Tessa, record that Sir Ordan regards him as an equal and holds no grudge.
Guard Tessa
Recorded, Reeve. Pell, continue when ready. The inquiry still requires every truth you possess.
Patter settles into the game beneath Octavius’s wandering touch. Pell draws a steadying breath, then turns back toward the ledger, visibly resolved to answer.
“Lady Reeve, if I may," I raise my free hand, the one not being sacrificed to Patters nipping energy, "Would it be reasonable to ask for a recess? I am less concerned with Patter jumping on your desk as I am with him soiling your floor. I have walked two and a half days journey in less than one, while harassed by bandits. I have not washed my face, nor had food and drink in several hours, and I am certain that everyone else in this room feels the same way to some degree or another.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +1)
Octavius
Lady Reeve, if I may, would it be reasonable to ask for a recess? I am less concerned with Patter jumping on your desk than with him soiling your floor. We have traveled hard, been harassed by bandits, and gone several hours without washing, food, or drink. I suspect everyone here could use the same consideration.
Octavius raises his free hand while the other keeps Patter focused on playful nips. He remains standing, studying Sir Ordan’s face as Patter’s energy settles into the familiar game.
Reeve Anja Vey
A reasonable request, Octavius. Guard Tessa, secure the records and arrange water, food, and a clean place for the party. This inquiry will pause.
Guard Tessa
At once, Reeve. I will have the office cleared and keep the documents under guard. Patter may accompany you, provided he remains close.
The room’s severity loosens. Sir Ordan steps back from the table without protest, while Mara and Edrin are given space to stretch and tend to themselves beyond the office.
Sir Ordan
Thank you, Octavius. I had forgotten how much easier truth becomes when a person is no longer thirsty, hungry, and afraid.
Reeve Anja Vey
Take the recess. When you return, we will continue with Hadrik Seln and the memoranda. No testimony will be lost while you attend to basic needs.
“My lady." I dip again at the spine, not the hip, to bow to the Reeve Anja Vey. Then I turn and beckon Patter (or at least try to gesture encouragingly for him to scamper on ahead as I'm sure his bladder is nearly bursting by now and I do not wish to apologize for the horridly LINGERING stentch of fox piss in the Reeves hall. I all but break into a trot, I walk so quickly after Patter before he has an accident. "I'll be back as quickly as I can!”
SUCCESS (Great Animal Handling, rolled +1)
Octavius
My lady.
Octavius dips at the spine rather than the hip, then turns and beckons Patter onward. The young fox springs toward the office door, relieved to be released.
Octavius
I’ll be back as quickly as I can!
Patter trots ahead with renewed purpose. Octavius follows at a brisk walk that nearly becomes a trot, keeping close enough to guide him toward the yard.
Reeve Anja Vey
The wash yard is through the side passage. Guard Tessa, see that they find water and return without being delayed.
Guard Tessa
Of course. I will keep the records secured and have food waiting when you return.
Behind them, the office door closes on the paused inquiry. Pell remains under guard while Mara and Edrin follow Tessa toward the provisions, and Patter reaches the rain-dark yard in time.
Director's notewhole tale
I have made sure that everyone knows Patter is NOT a trained dog, but a wild fox that is semi-tamed. Still, I can foster behaviour that I like by praising him; such as when he only toilets outdoors, kneeling down to give him a ridiculous-looking, copious amount of praise when he relieves himself in
Patter reaches the rain-dark yard and circles beneath the eaves before relieving himself on the wet earth. Octavius stops, then lowers himself carefully to offer lavish praise.
The fox’s ears angle forward as Octavius’s fingers flutter near his whiskers. Patter turns the restless impulse into playful nips against the calloused hand.
Guard Tessa
Good. Keep him near you, and the wash trough is there. I will see that food reaches the others.
Guard Tessa points toward a roofed trough and returns to the passage. Rain threads silver between the yard stones while Patter stays close, engaged by Octavius’s teasing fingers.
Octavius washes beside the trough, standing rather than kneeling. His attention remains on Patter only long enough to keep the fox occupied before returning toward the closed office.
Mara Venn
The food is being set out beneath the covered walk. Edrin is checking Brindle and the cart, then he means to wash.
From within the gatehouse, muffled voices carry through the rain. Pell remains under guard, and the inquiry waits, its unanswered names and forged orders held safely behind the door.
“Is there a place I can relieve myself as well, or should I mimic the animal?" I ask, attempting a joke and hoping it lands, "I would like to answer a similar.. er.. call of nature before we resume.”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
Is there a place I can relieve myself as well, or should I mimic the animal? I would like to answer a similar call of nature before we resume.
The joke travels beneath the covered walk. Patter gives another playful nip at Octavius’s teasing fingers, while Mara’s mouth quirks despite the rain and guarded surroundings.
Mara Venn
There is a privy beyond the wash yard, behind the stacked firewood. I doubt anyone will mistake you for a fox if you use it.
Guard Tessa pauses at the passage and points toward a small timber screen beside the yard’s far wall. The way is clear, private, and within sight of the covered walk.
Guard Tessa
That screen serves the gatehouse. Use it, then return when you are ready. The food will wait, and I will keep the office secured.
Octavius heads toward the screened privy while Patter remains close, still occupied by the familiar game of nipping at his calloused fingers. Through the rain, Octavius keeps Pell’s face in mind.
Director's notewhole tale
I make a dash towards where I've been directed, deliberately goading Patter into burning off some of his energy trying to chase and bite at me. I want him to be tired by the time the discussion resumes.
Octavius makes a quick dash toward the screened privy, teasing Patter into pursuit. The young fox darts after him, snapping playfully at his fingers and burning off restless energy.
Behind the firewood, Octavius uses the privy, then returns to the covered walk. Patter circles twice before settling near his boots, still watching the gatehouse.
Octavius remains standing, fingertips brushing Patter’s whiskers until the fox focuses on gentle nips. His attention shifts from Reeve Anja Vey to Sir Ordan’s face.
Guard Tessa
The food is ready beneath the covered walk. Eat before you return to the inquiry. The records remain sealed, and no one has entered the office.
Mara brings a trencher of bread, beans, and roasted roots toward Edrin and the cart. Rain taps the awning while Tessa watches the barred office door.
Mara Venn
Edrin has settled Brindle, and the cart is secure. We can eat here until the reeve calls us back.
Octavius stays quiet, studying Sir Ordan’s expression rather than his hands. Pell accepts the pause without protest, though a fleeting tension crosses his face when Hadrik’s name is mentioned beyond the door.
“How is Edrin. And for that matter, how are you?" I ask, taking up my own bowl for a quickly eaten meal; refuel and return without wasting any time I can avoid. It's not just my time, it's Reeve Anja Vey's time as well. Between bites I finish my question, "Are you okay with what's happening?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +0)
Octavius
How is Edrin? And for that matter, how are you? Are you okay with what's happening?
Octavius takes up his bowl and eats quickly, favoring steady bites over haste that might spill. Rain murmurs beyond the covered walk while Patter stays close at his boots.
Mara Venn
Edrin is tired, but sound. He is checking Brindle twice because that is how he settles himself. As for me, I am shaken, but I am here.
Mara lowers herself onto the bench with her bowl cupped in both hands. Her eyes move toward the barred office, then return to Octavius with guarded honesty.
Mara Venn
I am not comfortable, no. But I am comfortable with the reeve holding the inquiry, and with you speaking plainly when something matters. That makes this bearable.
Edrin Vale
And I am well enough to complain about the beans, which means I am recovering. Eat, Octavius. Reeve Vey can spare us these few minutes.
The meal disappears between questions and answers. Mara’s shoulders ease slightly, while Edrin’s dry reassurance steadies the covered walk before the inquiry resumes.
“Lets go back in," I finally say, realizing everyone has finished eating. "Get this over with so we can be on our way, yeah?”
SUCCESS (Legendary Persuasion, rolled +2)
Octavius
Let’s go back in. Get this over with so we can be on our way, yeah?
Octavius sets aside his empty bowl and rises. Mara gathers the remaining dishes while Edrin checks Brindle once more, and Guard Tessa opens the office door without delay.
Mara Venn
Agreed. I would rather have the answers while the reeve still has everyone contained.
Patter follows close beside Octavius, alert but calmer after the meal and exercise. Pell remains at the scarred table under watch, while Reeve Anja Vey reviews the sealed packets.
Reeve Anja Vey
Good. We can resume. Tessa, place the memoranda in order, and Pell, begin with Hadrik Seln’s first visit to the gatehouse.
Sir Ordan
It was before dawn, three mornings before Mara arrived. Hadrik brought the first sealed note and asked whether any eastern traveler had reached Dunmere.
Octavius stands beside Patter, studying Sir Ordan’s face rather than his hands. The fox noses at his offered fingers, and the inquiry turns again toward Hadrik’s hidden chain.
“I listen quietly, my attention focused primarily on the scenario being built before me by Pell, but partially split to keep Patter occupied”
SUCCESS (Superb Perception, rolled +3)
Octavius listens without speaking, standing beside Patter. His fingertips tease the fox’s whiskers until playful nips absorb the animal’s restlessness, while his attention stays on Sir Ordan’s face.
Sir Ordan
Hadrik asked whether eastern travelers still carried sealed notices for the reeve. When I said none had arrived, he named Mara himself and asked about her escort.
At Mara Venn’s name, Pell’s eyes flick toward her, then return to the ledger. The movement is brief, but his mouth tightens before he continues, as though recalling a detail he has withheld.
Sir Ordan
He knew Edrin’s name as well. He called the cart a useful route-marker, then corrected himself. I thought it was careless humor, but now I believe he was measuring what I knew.
The admission gives Anja a precise new lead: Hadrik possessed both names before Pell received the first memorandum. Patter remains focused on Octavius’s fingers, quiet beside his boots.
Reeve Anja Vey
You heard the hesitation, Octavius. I saw it too. Tessa, record his exact wording and add that Hadrik tested Pell’s knowledge before issuing instructions.
Guard Tessa
Recorded, Reeve. Sir Ordan, continue from that exchange. What did Hadrik ask about Mara’s seal, and who else stood within hearing?