The Assassin
We toil through cracked wastes, the ground beneath our feet chalky with dust. Soon, a chasm snakes across our path — a scar in the very earth, so deep that its floor is hidden in darkness. There is only one way to cross: a rope bridge, thin with age.
But even as we approach the rickety construction, someone steps from its shadow, barring the way. It is a hooded man in unremarkable clothes. A curved knife hangs at his belt.
He bows to us as we greet him, speaking with a voice like night. “Hail, travellers. I see that spirits of the Wood walk with ye. Such spirits, I am sworn to slay. But the soul price must be paid by one unwilling…”
He draws his knife. “Offer up a toll of your friends, and ye shall pass unharmed. Refuse, and it shall be ye who must pay the price.”
The day wears on…
The Conundrum
The Assassin demands the soul of one of the party’s Blessing spirits as payment for progress — but that toll must be unwillingly given. Only by offering up one of your fellow travellers’ Blessings can you proceed.
Travellers may not discuss. Instead, travellers hold their fists sideways in front of them.
Counting down from three, travellers simultaneously put their thumbs up or down.
Thumbs up means that you are not willing to betray your fellows.
Thumbs down means that you are willing to offer up another traveller’s Blessing to receive the Assassin’s support.
