Dust hangs low in the sepulchral chamber as a pale light climbs from the hidden opening. It gathers into the shape of an ancient guardian, translucent and cold, its gaze fixed past Bjor and toward the child.
The child stands motionless, toy clutched to his chest, staring up as if he hears a song no one else can hear.
The Guardian
Little one... step from the dark. The resting place below is not for the living.
The spirit does not look at Bjor at all. A second flicker of light spills from the opening, and a short, stooped figure climbs into view, breathless and white with dust.
The Tunnel-Warden
Easy, ghost. I am here, and I mean no theft.
The newcomer freezes at the sight of Bjor, then of the wolves scratching somewhere beyond the stone. They hold up one hand, neither threatening nor fleeing, caught between the living, the dead, and the dark path ahead.
✓ Quest Accepted
Protect the child from the spirit
“I demand the Tunnel-Warden explain what this spirit wants.”
SUCCESS (Superb Persuasion, rolled -1)
Bjor Ravenhelm
What does the spirit want?
The Tunnel-Warden
A witness. Not a thief. That is what the dead woman demands of any living soul who finds this place.
The Guardian
The boy must not descend. The path below keeps old vows, and old bargains.
The warden swallows, then gives a small, helpless nod toward the glowing figure. The child loosens his grip on the toy by a finger's width, still rooted where he stands.
The Tunnel-Warden
If you mean to pass, speak plain and do not wake the lower stones. I can guide you, but only if she allows it.
The guardian's light shivers, and the air under the open lid answers with a low, distant murmur from deeper within the mound.
Quest Complete
Protect the child from the spirit