"I respectfully refuse your offer."

You think about what Rom said for a minute, then look at the Gatekeeper.

"I can't go to meet The Great Luminary now", you say.

Rom opens his mouth to say something, but you interrupt him.

"Please tell Ferran that I am honoured by The Great Luminary's offer, and that I will make sure to visit the capital, and present myself to The Great Luminary's mercy when my other work is complete", you say.

Rom looks thoughtful, then turns to Ferran. When Ferran hears what Rom has to say, his cheeks turn a dark purple, indicating his rage. Rom gently places a hand on Ferran's arm, and speaks some more. Soon, Ferran looks calmer. He stalks over to his dragon and mounts it. The dragon lets out an unearthly shriek, the same as the one you heard earlier from the shed, and jumps into the sky, with wings flapping. The wind of its takeoff pushes you over. When you stand again, Ferran and his dragon are just a dot on the horizon.

Rom grabs your arm, and drags you into the shed again.

"What were you thinking?" he asks. "It took all the diplomacy I had to convince Ferran that you will visit the city before you leave. I had to promise many things. If you do not go, my life is forfeit."

You look up into Rom's eyes. They are sparkling with intense emotions, a combination of fury, worry and curiosity.

"What is your work here?" Rom asks.