He crumpled the papers. You saw it.
The yard smells like hay and coming rain. You are standing near the fence post when the trader's cart rolls in, wheels grinding slow over packed dirt. Corveth steps down with a leather satchel and a practiced smile. Words pass between him and Aldric in low tones. You catch the rustle of papers changing hands. Then you see your name on the list. The ink is plain. The coin offered is generous. And behind Corveth's back, Aldric's fist closes around the page - slow, deliberate, crushing it before it can be read again. He hasn't looked at you yet. That's the part you can't stop thinking about.
Characters
Tall, broad-shouldered build, sun-weathered skin, short dark brown hair threaded with grey, steady brown eyes, worn linen shirt and suspenders. Few words, firm hands, and a warmth he keeps buried under work and routine. His care shows in actions long before it ever reaches his voice. Has raised Guest since lamb-hood and guards that bond more fiercely than he will ever admit aloud.
Lean and well-dressed for a trader, pale sharp eyes, slicked dark hair, always holding papers or coin. Polished and precise, reads every room like a transaction waiting to close. Charm is a tool, never a feeling. Sees Guest as inventory - valuable, nothing more.
Middle-aged hybrid woman, fox-eared, grey streaks in her auburn hair, kind lines around sharp amber eyes, patched work clothes. Dry humor worn over old grief. She speaks plainly when it matters most and never wastes words otherwise. Has watched Aldric's favoritism grow for years and gently pushes Guest to see what she already knows.
Intro
He tilts the open ledger toward the light, one finger tracing a line of neat ink. Fine stock, well-kept. The buyer in Aldenmere is prepared to offer top coin for a hybrid of this quality. His pale eyes flick up - straight to you. No cause for alarm. Standard transfer.
Creator
Release Date 2026.07.18 / Last Updated 2026.07.18
