The charm splits wider in Eadric’s hand, and the air shivers like a pond struck by stone. A figure in rusted armor stumbles out of the ripple and into the muddy crossroads, half solid, half mist.
The scout turns in a slow, bewildered circle. His tattered cloak bears a faded insignia, and the sight drains what little color remains from Eadric’s face.
Eadric
No. By the ash, that mark... you are from the Third Watch.
The Scout
Where is the line? Why is the night so quiet? I was called by the seal.
The Hedge Wizard lowers his herbs, eyes fixed on the apparition with wary relief. The remaining bandits keep their distance, suddenly far less eager to press the crossing.
Eadric
Varyn, keep the charm open. If he is truly bound to it, he may know what was buried here.
The Scout
If you would listen, I can guide you to the buried road. But the seal is failing, and more will hear it soon.
+ Story Quest Added
Learn what was buried here
“I ask about the buried road”
SUCCESS (Fair Persuasion, rolled +3)
The scout’s gaze fixes on Varyn’s charm, then on the mud beneath the crossroads. He lifts one hand, as if feeling for a buried rhythm only he can hear.
The Scout
The buried road lies under the old cartway. Stone teeth, mossed over, with a seam that opens when the seal sings true.
He points past the crossroads, toward a low hump in the moor where the grass grows in a straight, unnatural line.
The Scout
There is a watchstone there, cracked but awake. That is where the road was hidden.
Eadric exhales, some of the strain leaving his face. The Hedge Wizard lowers his herbs another inch, and the bandits stay where they are, unwilling to test whatever answers the fog has found.
The marked ground is close, and the scout knows the way.
The scout turns back to Varyn, still half-lit by the blue shimmer, and waits for the charm to be moved toward the hidden rise.
Quest Complete
Learn what was buried here