The gnoll threads through the crowd with a quarterstaff knocking wet stone. Guards part before his bulk. His nose works hard, drawn to Ma's satchel more than the herald's law.
Garth Braun
You there. The one with the bag. It smells like food, not coin. Is it trade, or just teasing?
The Herald stiffens on the balcony. Beniman watches without moving. A few townsfolk step back as the gnoll stops close enough to cast a shaggy shadow over Ma.
Ma
Ma says he has food.
Garth Braun
Food, at last. But if it is bait, he still wants the scent explained.
Garth Braun
Then show it. I have coin, labor, or meat saved in me for whoever opens that satchel.
The crowd leans in. The gnoll's staff rests at his side, ready but not raised, as the square holds its breath.
✓ Quest Accepted
Negotiate a peaceful arrangement with Garth Braun
“Spwan 2 Dango”
SUCCESS (Fair Arcana, rolled +1)
Ma opens the satchel just enough for the air to shift, and the first dango settles into his palm like a small moon of rice dough.
A second lump follows, warm and sweet, and the crowd’s murmur sharpens at the smell.
Garth Braun
Two sweets, plain as mercy. That is real enough.
Garth lowers his chin, eyes fixed on Ma’s hands, not the satchel now.
The Herald
Let this be plain. No brawl in the square, no theft from the registry food.
Garth Braun
Then state the terms, herald. I smell a fair table if one is named.
The basket on the cart knocks once more in the hush, and both men glance toward it.
“go to The City Of Mai In the Kingdom Of North Mai The Biggest City In the World”
SUCCESS (Fair Agility, rolled -1)