Round 2 Transcript

The Narrator restates the undertaking plainly, fixes the stakes in the room, and presses the cast to make their positions clear before the meeting can end.

I'll participate—under certain conditions. First, I want a comprehensive magical assessment of the tower's wards and protections before we step foot inside. Second, each of us must sign a binding pact that any artifacts retrieved belong to our collective group until all debts are paid—not just handed over willy-nilly to whoever bid highest. And third, if at any point my arcane sensors detect demonic influence beyond our ability to manage, we withdraw immediately. No heroic last stands in the belly of a demon nest.

I won't be part of this unless we're absolutely sure it's about saving those missing children and stopping the curse, not just stealing some magic sword for ourselves. The goddess didn't bless me for treasure hunting; she blessed me to protect the innocent. So if that's truly what we're doing here—if our goal is to break the evil in that tower—I'll use every drop of healing I have. But I won't be swayed by tales of legendary artifacts or promises of wealth. The moment this stops being a rescue mission and starts being a heist, count me out.

I'll come along, but I want a cut of any loot we find, and a promise that if things get too hot, we have an escape plan. No sense in dying for glory when there's gold to be had.

I tap my quill against the worn parchment before me, considering the weight of each word. The temptation to unravel such a mysterious relic is undeniable, but I am no fool. My eyes lift from the page, meeting the gaze of each person around this grim table. If we are to proceed with this perilous undertaking, then yes—I will participate. However, my involvement comes with conditions of my own.
I hold up a single finger, my expression firm. First, I insist upon having a detailed magical inventory of every artifact and scroll within the tower before we begin our ascent. This is non-negotiable. We must know precisely what dark forces we are dealing with—and what ancient knowledge they might possess that could be turned against us.
Another finger rises, my tone growing more serious. Second, I demand a share of the magical research into the Time-Splitting Sword once it is recovered. Not for monetary gain, but to ensure its secrets do not fall into the wrong hands. For every power gained, there must be an understanding of its cost. My gaze sweeps around the room, challenging anyone to object. And third... I pause, my voice dropping to a near whisper ...if at any point I sense that the artifacts we uncover pose a greater threat than the evil they were meant to combat, I reserve the right to destroy them on the spot. No prison wearing a crown will be allowed to claim us

I'll come along, but I want it made clear that this is a job of work, not some fool's errand. If there are undead and demons to face, then we need to be ready for a fight. No half-measures. And if the price of admission is too steep, we turn back. Simple as that.