Session 110

Back - Next (Back to Logs)

[6:55 PM] DM: You're camping north of Aston, just off the Spine. Gunnloda's been moved to a tent. You guys just finished talking to some grey elves.

[7:01 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Do you want to talk about what has you all wound up?" Ryleigh asks Seirixori.

[7:07 PM] Urrak: "Aye, don't think I've seen ye this riled up since ye got drunk and told Gunnloda she was pretty." Urrak  chuckles

[7:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir doesn't respond at first, still pacing, her face only a little red at Urrak's comment. After moments pass she answers but doesn't stop moving, "I don't know. No, I do know, but there's so much," she motions around her head, "Takara told me the darkness was spreading and then the-the- lady elf person said she'd turn me into a shadow... a shadow... *lasta*. I don't know the word in common, sorry. But the tree thing we saw before. It was just wrong and- and what if they're the reason the forest is getting worse? Or-or something in the forest has-has taken them over? I don't know. And-and--" She finally stops moving and throws up her arms, like it explains the rest.

[7:09 PM] DM: Alarys tilts her head. "You talk to Takara? Are you her champion?"

[7:09 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh half laughs at Alarys comment.

[7:10 PM] Seirixori: Seir freezes and points at Alarys, ".....Yyeees?"

[7:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "But she isn't Takara's champion," Ryleigh finishes for Seir.

[7:12 PM] Urrak: Urrak looks over to Alarys "It's...complicated."

[7:12 PM] Urrak: She turns back to Ry and Seir, "But, from th' elf's speech I figured they were th' guardians o' this place. Maybe they're makin' things all shadow-y t' keep folks out." Urrak shrugs a little.

[7:14 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle also begins to look a little uneasy.

[7:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "There are elves that live in Fytulk, Ascans call them walkers, but I'm not sure they're guardians of the forest... and I've never seen a grey elf - that's odd."

[7:16 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia folds her arms over her chest. "So... there's funny-looking elf people who are maybe making the spooky forest even more spooky?"

[7:17 PM] Brimeia: "Can't you just ask Takara what the hells is going on, Seirixori?"

[7:18 PM] Seirixori: "This isn't her place, and they have limits." Seir replies to Bri.

[7:18 PM] Urrak: "Let's jus' consult all th' gods. Apparently they love talkin'."

[7:19 PM] Seirixori: She looks at Urrak, "They really don't."

[7:20 PM] Urrak: "Wouldn't know," Urrak shrugs again. "Either way, th' sooner we get outta this crazy forest th' better, I say."

[7:20 PM] Brimeia: "Oh." Brimeia sounds disappointed.

[7:21 PM] Brimeia: "So is uh... Gunnloda ok?"

[7:22 PM] Seirixori: Seir plops to the ground, rubbing her face with both hands and groans, "Yes."

[7:22 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia hesitates at Seirixori's reaction. "Are you ok?"

[7:24 PM] Urrak: Urrak shifts uncomfortably

[7:25 PM] Seirixori: "I'm tired, just... tired." She responds.

[7:26 PM] Urrak: "Been a long journey, it's ok t' be tired," Urrak offers a small smile

[7:28 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh moves to where Seir is seated. "I think you need to get some sleep too, homashoc. Give your brain a rest." She then offers her hand to help her up.

[7:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes it and let's Ryleigh guide her.

[7:31 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ry takes Seir to the tent she placed Gunnloda in. She whispers something to her, and then returns to the group. "I'll take first watch," Ryleigh says.

[7:31 PM] Brimeia: "I can join you."

[7:31 PM] Urrak: Urrak stands, "I'll take th' last, then."

[7:38 PM] DM: Sometime during second watch, Ry wakes up. Alarys and Sariel are on watch.

## Ry at the temple

10:04 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: On the balcony in the Aston temple of Asten. “I’m not sure you’re even listening, or care to, but… I need to do this for me, to get this off my chest.” Ryleigh takes a deep breath before continuing, “I don’t know how to feel, Asten… the people here tell me to have faith, and that you have a plan for me. I’m… I’m not sure you do. So many people here misuse your name… or maybe they don’t? Maybe you don’t care and I’ve got it all wrong… maybe existing is more important to you than the right thing? And if that’s the truth, than why me? Why would you give me power?”

[10:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh doesn’t expect an answer, so she just sits with her thoughts for a few minutes, then she looks at the moon. “It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this powerless, but the longer I’m here the more I realize that everything I’ve been working towards is nearly impossible to achieve. I always thought that if Tilman was gone, things would be better, but I know that there will always be someone else who will simply fill his shoes. The problem is the entire regime, and I’d happily let it all burn… but Rukiya says that a complete overthrow would harm all the people I want to help.” Ryleigh’s shoulders fall, she deflates slightly and softly says, “I feel lost, and there’s no one to help me work any of it out. Seirixori thinks it's stupid that I follow you, but she doesn’t understand. My family is with you, or… I hope they are, and if I serve you, maybe… just maybe I’ll see them again. I have so many regrets there… I just want the chance to tell them how sorry I am. I’m afraid to talk to anyone about my doubts. I already said too much to Lisbet when I was here last time. Her advice, like I’m sure Lydia’s or Olivia’s would be is to have faith, but you’re making it so difficult for me to. Especially with people like Barton running around with your symbol upon his chest. I just wish I knew what to do… or if I was on the right path, because I know what’s right in my heart… and this isn’t it, Asten.” She sighs, and sits in silence until the moon starts to fall and dawn approaches.

**21 Takaramont 3Y20**

The next morning, Gunnloda looks a bit better, but like she still needs a strong cup of coffee most of the day.

[7:41 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh looks particularly tired this morning. When she awoke, she disappeared into town for an hour or so.

[7:44 PM] Seirixori: Seir sticks close by when Ry comes back, there if she wants to talk.

[7:44 PM] Urrak: Urrak busies herself with breaking down the campsite

[7:45 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle wakes up kind of confused and on edge, constantly looking out into the forest as she helps Urrak tidy up the campsite.

[7:46 PM] Urrak: Urrak notices Gayle's nervous energy, "Y'doin' alright?"

[7:48 PM] Gayle Silbando: She nods. "Just weird dreams. I guess the forest will do that to ya sometimes though," she says, shrugging.

[7:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "So the plan is to travel through the forest from here on, right?"

[7:49 PM] Urrak: "Nightmares?" Urrak makes sure the fire is completely out,  "Sorry t' hear it,"

[7:49 PM] Brimeia: "Fine by me, just so long as we get outta here."

[7:50 PM] Urrak: "Aye, I'd like t' stay away from those guards as well."

[7:51 PM] Brimeia: "I'm starting think I'd take guards over the creepy stuff in this forest though."

[7:51 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods quickly, "Yes. The forest I can at least... try to talk to."

[7:53 PM] DM: So you get ready to go. You've got horses- Adventure, Monty, Rainsilver, Starshine... and Seir. Who's on which?

[7:54 PM] Urrak: Urrak on Monty

[7:54 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ry will climb up on Adventure, and offers her hand to Alarys to ride with her.

[7:56 PM] DM: Alarys climbs up with her.

[7:56 PM] Brimeia: Bri hops on whichever horse looks friendliest.

[7:57 PM] DM: Gunnloda will ride Seir.

[7:58 PM] Gayle Silbando: "May I hop on with you, Brimeia? I'm glad we have saddles now. Thank you, Ryleigh and Seirixori."

7:58 PM] DM: Yahya will ride with Urrak.

[7:58 PM] Brimeia: "Any time, pretty lady." Brimeia winks and holds out her hand to Gayle.

[7:59 PM] DM: Which leaves Sariel and Taji on Rainsilver.

[7:59 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "No problem," Ryleigh says to Gayle.

[7:59 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle takes Brimeia's hand and hops on.

[8:04 PM] DM: It takes a while longer to get through the forest than it would on the road. You end up camping in the middle of the forest that night, and coming out into open plains and farmland as you pass by Burrafirth on the 22nd.  A day of open riding puts you near Arolis on the 23rd. Gunnloda's feeling back to normal by the time you do.

[8:04 PM] DM: The City of Spires lies ahead of you. The northernmost town in Ascus along the Spine, and Gayle's current hometown. This is where you need to decide how you're going to get across the border.

[8:06 PM] Urrak: "So, what's th' plan? I'm not even sure if we're fugitives at this point, honestly," Urrak pats Monty's neck, "Either way, I don't think goin' into th' city is a good idea."

[8:09 PM] Seirixori: ((would Seir still be a horse?))

[8:11 PM] DM: You've been resting as necessary to keep Seir's wild shapes up, so that's up to you.

[8:12 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Welcome to my home," she says kind of halfheartedly. "Avoiding guards here is still an ideal path, I can help lead us around them, too."

[8:14 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I do have to let my...boss here know that I will be headed back out of town," she looks over to Ryleigh. "But I will be back."

[8:15 PM] Seirixori: "I would like to go back to Kinetas, if that's ok with everyone."

[8:15 PM] Urrak: "Any particular reason? Or do ye jus' think it's safer?"

[8:16 PM] Brimeia: "What's over there?"

[8:17 PM] DM: It is near time to camp or head to an inn, btw.

[8:17 PM] Brimeia: "Honeymoon spot?" Brimeia smirks.

[8:17 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh gives Gayle a subtle nod, then says to the group, "Why don't you guys make camp, and Gayle and I will head into town."

[8:18 PM] Urrak: "Tell yer friends we say 'hi'," Urrak dismounts Monty and helps Yahya off as well

[8:18 PM] Seirixori: "Don't do anything Urrak would do." Seir mildly teases, but still looks a little worried.

[8:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Don't worry, we'll be careful," Ryleigh says, pressing a quick kiss to Seir's forehead before heading out of the forest.

## Arolis

8:23 PM] DM: You head into town, Gayle back in her full hooded getup, and you get to the warehouse with the extremely secure door. Gayle's greeted by the red dragonborn, Mishann.

"Ah, welcome back. I was starting to worry about you."

[8:25 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Mishann! We have got some news for you!" she steps into the warehouse and tosses the dragonborn an apple. "This is Ryleigh. A Whisper based out of Riverrun. She and her party allowed me to accompany them on the way to Kenbow."

[8:26 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Ryleigh, this is the bosslady, Mishann."

[8:26 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "We've met," Ryleigh says with a smile. "I'm sorry about running out last time."

[8:27 PM] DM: Mishann waves Ry's apology away. "So, what did you find?"

[8:30 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Well...we encountered an elf captured by guards that fit the description of the individuals being targeted as the Moonborn. Turns out she was protecting another Dragonborn she met in Kenbow who Vydea actually appointed to be the Moonborn. They're all right outside of town and we're headed to Riverrun next."

[8:31 PM] DM: The ridge above her eyes raises. "Dragonborn? Interesting."

[8:32 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "We were a bit surprised as well."

[8:33 PM] Gayle Silbando: "She said she was a caster before, or learning to be before she was visited by Vydea in a dream."

[8:33 PM] DM: Mishann turns to Gayle. "So you're headed to Riverrun with them?"

[8:38 PM] Gayle Silbando: "They are good people and I want to help make sure they get to their destination safely. After that, I guess I'll be back here. Unless..." she turns to Ryleigh with kind of a sheepish smile."You guys are hiring and need extra hands," she does some spirit fingers with a little sparkle from casting prestidigitation.

[8:39 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "That isn't solely my decision. The group has to agree, but we frequently pick up strays," she says with touch a humor.

[8:40 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle nods. "Of course. I hope I can prove myself to be a helpful hand when this is all finished."

[8:41 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Hey Mishann, do you know anything about wood elves?"

[8:41 PM] DM: "Wood elves?"

[8:42 PM] Gayle Silbando: "They're grey elves. Called Walkers that live about the Fytulk."

[8:44 PM] DM: "Wood elves are usually brown... or green. Can't say I've heard of grey elves."

[8:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "There were some grey elves that confronted us in the Fytulk near Aston, so if any of ours are near there, tell them to be overly cautious in that part of the forest."

[8:46 PM] DM: Mishann nods and jots a note down for herself.

[8:48 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Any exciting things happen while I was away? I know you've missed me."

[8:49 PM] DM: Mishann grins... it's a bit odd looking bc it pretty much just shows all her teeth. "Nothing new. Word is the border's closed up tight, though, so I'm sure we'll be making more runs through the back."

[8:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "They know she's going to try to flee the country, so it makes sense. We were almost caught on the road by a Sunguard. Since then, we've been traveling through the forest. If there's a back way to get through the border, we definitely need to take it."

[8:54 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Anybody deliveries tonight that I can take on my way? We are heading my usual route out."

[8:55 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I'd offer transport but we've got special cargo that would be dangerous to mix."

[8:55 PM] DM: "No... but when they come, I suppose I'll have to deal with them myself... at least until I get my cousin to join us," she says with a wink.

[8:57 PM] DM: "We'll miss you, but let me know if there's anything you need before you go."

[9:00 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I'll be back soon, I promise," she pouts and puts her hand on Mishann's. "I'll just be sort of next door in Riverrun. Ryleigh, can you think of anything we need before we go?"

[9:02 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh quirks an eyebrow, then says, "That depends... how far is this 'back door' taking us out of the way?"

[9:03 PM] DM: "It'll take you to Bom Khorbor in Dhog Lodir or Penrith on the Moonrise."

[9:04 PM] Gayle Silbando: "If Gunnloda is okay swinging by her old stomping grounds."

[9:05 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Well, I know one of my friends want to stop in Kinetas, so I think Penrith will better suit our needs."

[9:08 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I can get us there, away from more guards."

[9:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I think we'll be okay. Unless you need to pick anything up here? I'd like to make a quick stop, but you can go on ahead or wait for me."

[9:11 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I can come with you, but if you prefer to go alone I can wait for you."

[9:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You can come along." Ryleigh then smiles at Mishann, holding her hand out. "I'll make sure Gayle doesn't get into too much trouble. And I'm not sure I said thank you before running off last time, but thanks."

[9:15 PM] DM: Mishann nods.

Gayle Silbando: "Hey, Mishann knows I am a trustworthy and responsible worker. Except that one time I learned I could set things on fire. But that was one time. And it has proved helpful because we hardly need tinderboxes now."

[9:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh makes to exit.

[9:17 PM] Gayle sees Ryleigh leaving and dashes out with her. "Okay, see you later, Mishann!"

[9:20 PM] DM: You head out.

[9:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: The place Ryleigh stops at is a bar, but she's only in there for a minute or two, and returns without anything in her hands. "Alright, let's go meet up with the others."

[9:24 PM] Gayle Silbando: "That was fast. Saying hi to a friend?"

[9:25 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh shrugs. "How long have you been working with Mishann?"

[9:28 PM] Gayle Silbando: She doesn't push further. "Couple years now. I might have just missed you when you came to town last."

[9:30 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh hums in agreement. "I appreciate you offering to take us a different route. The border won't be safe for any of you."

[9:33 PM] Gayle Silbando: "The less guards the better. They aren't always too keen on me flipping them the bird behind their backs and running off when they notice."

## Camp

[8:19 PM] Seirixori: "I have friends there," Seir shrugs as she answers Brimeia, "I'd also like to help them out a bit, so we might be escorting a lot more than three people. If all parties are agreeable anyway."

[8:21 PM] Urrak: "I don't know if leadin' a caravan of folks is better or worse fer our situation. What friends?" Urrak asks as she picks up fallen branches for firewood

[8:22 PM] Seirixori: She grins, "The fuck your guards kind."

[8:22 PM] Brimeia: "I thought we were your friends, Seirixori," Brimeia teases.

[8:22 PM] Seirixori: Seir pouts at Bri, "I have more friends."

[8:24 PM] Urrak: "That Tiefling from th' inn? He seems a lil rowdy fer ye, Seirixori." Urrak grabs her flint from her bag and starts the fire

[8:26 PM] Brimeia: "I'm glad you've got some new ones," Bri says more warmly. "Do we get to meet 'em?"

[8:26 PM] Seirixori: "He's perfectly fine. And yes, if we decide to go, you'll get to meet them."

[8:27 PM] Brimeia: "Well, I'm all for it."

[8:28 PM] DM: Sariel: "I have a boat. I'd like to be back on it. If there's a port near there, we can meet it."

[8:29 PM] DM: Sariel: "How many are you talking about?"

[8:30 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks at Gunnloda, like she's trying to remember their conversations. "Hmm, I believe twenty for now."

[8:31 PM] Urrak: Urrak chokes on air, "Twenty?!"

[8:31 PM] DM: Sariel shrugs. "Tight fit, but we can do it."

[8:32 PM] Urrak: She coughs and says in a loud whisper, "Sorry, twenty?"

[8:32 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia grins. "You sure made a lot of new friends."

[8:32 PM] Seirixori: "Yeah?" Seir says to Urrak, a little confused.

[8:33 PM] Urrak: "I'm just thinkin', it's been hard enough fer th' nine of us t' get around without incident, but twenty more folks...are there any humans or half elves? That might make it a bit easier..."

[8:34 PM] Seirixori: "Uuuuhhhhhhh...." She clears her throat, "So the boat option..."

[8:36 PM] Urrak: "All of 'em are Tieflings, aren't they," Urrak's tone makes it less a question and more of a statement

[8:38 PM] Urrak: "I mean it's good t' get them out, yes, I'm with ya there. Oof, this trip cannot end fast enough..." Urrak drags her hands down her face, "Whatever, let's do it. Might as well try an' help more folks get out of this shit-hole country than leave 'em here t' struggle."

[8:39 PM] DM: Alarys: "Kinetas is in Vyon."

[8:39 PM] Urrak: "Sorry, all yer fuckin' cities sound th' same down here." Urrak waves a hand and starts setting up the tents

[8:42 PM] DM: Alarys: "Well, they were all part of Ascus before Lucas split Vyon off... all but Vydenia, anyway."

[8:43 PM] Brimeia: "This stuff makes my head hurt."

[8:43 PM] Brimeia: "Is that like the capital or something?"

8:44 PM] Urrak: "I think I jus' miss hearin' th' names of Nampuli towns, but thank ye fer th' history, truly." Urrak drives the stakes into the ground with a lopsided rock

[8:44 PM] DM: Alarys: "Vydenia? Yes. It was built a couple decades ago. Riverrun was the capital before that."

[8:47 PM] Seirixori: "Ascus isn't the original one either. So they can fuck off anyway."

[8:49 PM] Urrak: You hear a soft, "That too!" from behind you all as Urrak tries to place the tent cloth over the stakes

[8:50 PM] Seirixori: Seir clears her throat and mutters under her breath as she casts her spell for the camp.

[8:51 PM] DM: The fey spirits manifest and raccoons and squirrels and birds start setting up the camp, sprucing up the fire, tightening the tents, and setting out rations.

[8:52 PM] Urrak: Urrak steps back and crosses her arms, "I had it but--thank ye, Seir." She walks back towards the others, "i-ixori."

[8:53 PM] Seirixori: "It's faster."

[8:54 PM] Urrak: "That..." she holds up a finger, and then points it at Seir, "is very true."

[8:57 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods and sits near the fire, bringing Gunnloda with her and starts snacking on the food.

[8:59 PM] Urrak: Urrak takes a seat by the fire, "So, the boat."

[9:00 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs, "If everyone thinks it's better than walking."

[9:02 PM] Urrak: "I think it's better than leadin' a rainbow parade across th' Ascan border. Probably easier too."

[9:04 PM] Seirixori: "We'd already be across it before we pick them up."

[9:05 PM] Urrak: "Right, right," Urrak rubs her eyes, "I need an actual bed soon so I can get some decent sleep..."

[9:07 PM] Seirixori: Seir makes a face of disagreement, but doesn't say anything. "Ok well, does anyone else prefer boat or walking?"

[9:07 PM] DM: Sariel: "Boat."

[9:08 PM] Urrak: "Ry ain't gonna like it, but boat."

[9:08 PM] Seirixori: "I know there's three for walking."

[9:08 PM] DM: Gunnloda chuckles.

[9:13 PM] Seirixori: "Actually... *llaro* could you ask Bliss if anyone has a preference for water or land?"

[9:15 PM] DM: Gunnloda: "Much as I hate t'admit it, the ship might be better for them. Without carts and horses for everyone, that's a lot of walkin', and I know at least some of 'em are young'ns."

[9:16 PM] DM: "Easier t' keep 'em all in one place."

[9:17 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods, "Okay, boat it is, then." Her eyes light up suddenly, "Oh! Maybe they'll let me take them out on the water!"

[9:26 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia chuckles. "Bet they'd have fun with that."

[9:31 PM] DM: Eventually, Gayle and Ry return.

[9:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Apparently the border is under tighter security than usual, so Gayle has offered to take us a different way."

[9:37 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I take this route when I am helping with transport or deliveries. We may have to cross some rivers, but since we are traveling in numbers, it will be safer from the minor threats. The worst I've encountered were probably just bandits trying to take some coin, but we can scare them off."

[9:42 PM] Seirixori: "And once across, we're going to head to Kinetas to pick up some friends and then... take a boat." She smiles apologetically at Ry.

[9:43 PM] Urrak: "Sariel's boat, t' be precise."

[9:43 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh grimaces. "A boat. Great."

[9:45 PM] Urrak: "It'll be fiiiine," Urrak laughs, "Ye successfully puked off th' Revenge before. It'll be a cake walk now."

[9:46 PM] DM: So, you guys rest, and when morning comes, Gayle leads you around the west end of Arolis. There's a place she takes you where the road is bordered on either side by thick shrubbery... or so it seems. She glances about a bit, then sticks her hand inside the wall of leaves and thorns... and the wall swings aside. The opening is large enough for a cart and she ushers you through, keeping an eye out for anyone who might be watching. Once she closes it, she gives you all a grin and gestures down the path.

[9:47 PM] Urrak: "Fancy."

[9:48 PM] DM: You end up following some rivers. It takes a few days- and some minor encounters with wolves and such- to cross through forests into open plains and farmlands and the crossing of a river, but Gayle manages to lead you all to a small town called Penrith along the Moonrise. She has a contact here that she usually passes her information or cargo over to, but this time there's no need. You'll be able to travel from here along the road to Kinetas, then to Tradewind to meet the Revenge.

[9:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thank Asten, we're back in Vyon," Ryleigh happily sighs.

[9:50 PM] Seirixori: "Not the one I would thank." Seir says off handedly.

[9:49 PM] DM: Yahya raises an eyebrow. "You're kinda weird."

[9:50 PM] Urrak: "Only kinda?" Urrak chuckles

[9:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "So I've been told," Ryleigh says to Yahya, there's clear humor in her tone.

[9:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: She gives Seir a look shortly afterward.

[9:52 PM] Seirixori: Seir grins and waves.

[9:53 PM] DM: It's the 28th when you arrive in Kinetas, Seir takes the lead, heading to a rundown part of town to the south. A group of about thirty is gathered in a square between one-room houses. There's a definite feeling of excitement in the air and the people are alternating singing and talking.

[9:54 PM] Urrak: "Seir...this is a town. You convinced a town t' leave with ye?" Urrak places her hands on her hips, "That's...impressive."

[9:55 PM] Seirixori: "There's a town with nobody in it and far better than this, after all." Seir skips ahead to go talk to the others, most of her attention going to the children.

[9:55 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Most non-humans can't afford to leave the border towns... they usually get about this far and their money runs out," she says to Urrak. "They came here for a better life... it's hard to find in a place like this, so close to Ascus."

[9:57 PM] Urrak: Urrak sighs,  "Bellbury's gonna get a big surprise." she looks over to Ryleigh, smiling

[9:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Eloise is aware of the situation."

[9:59 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia walks over to where Seirixori and the others are. "Hey there," she waves, beaming.

[10:00 PM] DM: The gathered people are a mixture of tieflings and half-orcs with a few other, less common people mixed in.

[10:00 PM] Brimeia: "Ready to get outta here?"

[10:01 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle smiles at all the townfolk. "Now I get why the boat is needed. This is great, let's get these folks out of this town."

10:01 PM] DM: Bliss, a tiefling that could pass for human if she tried, smiles with Morthus in her arms. "We are. We're so thankful you've given us this chance."

[10:03 PM] Brimeia: "Ahh," Bri scoffs sheepishly. "Thank Seirixori. We're just along to help. And to keep her out of trouble." She grins.

[10:03 PM] Seirixori: "I think it's the other way around!" Seir yells from her spot on the ground.

[10:04 PM] Urrak: "It's definitely th' other way around." Urrak smirks

[10:04 PM] Brimeia: "Sure, sure," Brimeia waves off Seirixori teasingly.

[10:05 PM] DM: Arkrus is playing with the ram rock Gunnloda made, climbing up Seir's arm.

[10:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh watches the exchange, her expression oddly stoic for the situation.

[10:07 PM] DM: After a bit, people start tapering off with goodbyes and you round up the twenty or so people who are headed north with you. It's a slow walk, walking as slow as the slowest person with some taking turns on the horses, but eventually, you get to Tradewind.

[10:07 PM] DM: The Revenge sits at the dock in Tradewind, waiting for you all to board. The first mate reports to Sariel that they have supplies to last and are ready to set sail once everyone's aboard. The boat will be a little cramped, but it'll only be 3 days to Riverrun.

[10:09 PM] DM: You sail north across the open water, to the bay, past Muyar Harbor, and on the second of Ropamont, you pull into Riverrun. Welcome home.

## Riverrun

[10:12 PM] DM: Sariel: "So.... this has been... fun. But I miss my boat so thanks, but no thanks."

[10:14 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns at the news, not really surprised, but all she does is nod and makes herself busy with helping everyone else.

[10:14 PM] Urrak: "Thank ye fer th' use of yer ship, Captain.  Safe travels," Urrak pats her shoulder and follows Seir

[10:14 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thanks for the ride," Ryleigh says, helping get people off the boat too.

[10:15 PM] DM: Sariel: "I'm sure you can contact me if you need me."

[10:15 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Thank you, Captain. Good luck on the rest of your journey." Gayle puts her arm out to shake.

[10:16 PM] DM: Sariel shakes it.

[10:18 PM] DM: Everyone gets off the boat. Where to next?

[10:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: ((take Alarys to the temple))

[10:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: " Homashoc, we need to take Alarys to the temple, but do you want to go with us to the temple or would you like to make arrangements for everyone to Bellbury while we take her? We can't show up at Vydea's temple with 20 people."

[10:24 PM] DM: Gunnloda: "I can take them t'our guildhall t'wait, if y'like. ....I might not be the best person t'go there."

[10:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh nods. "Right... of course. Sorry, Gunnloda."

[10:26 PM] Seirixori: Seir turns quickly from facing the boat, like she can hide the giant octopus that's now on deck. "Uhh... I'll go if you need me to, but..." she shrugs, "I think I'd rather help arrange things."

[10:30 PM] DM: Gunnloda to the travelers: "Well, let's at least stop by th' hall first and get a good meal in all our bellies after all that travel. We can talk about how t'finish the trip there."

[10:26 PM] DM: Sariel: "Uhhh... thanks?"

[10:28 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Okay," Ryleigh laughs. "I'll talk to you later. You know where to find me if I'm not at the guildhall."

[10:28 PM] Gayle Silbando: "May I assist you at the temple, Ryleigh?"

[10:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Sure? I just didn't want everyone coming with us."

[10:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Alarys, it's this way," Ryleigh says, waiting to start moving the direction of the temple until she knows Alarys is following.

[10:30 PM] DM: So Seir, Gunnloda, and 20 tourists head toward the guildhall. Everyone else going to the temple?

[10:33 PM] DM: The Temple of Vydea sits on the hill, a massive pyramid with a light shining from the top. You all climb the hill and the stairs. Yahya's understandably excited, but even Taji seems to be in awe at the scale of the building.

[10:37 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Welcome to the Temple of Vydea," Ryleigh says. "The moon passes directly over it, and it's truly a sight to see."

[10:39 PM] DM: When you enter the front doors, you see a somewhat familiar androgynous half-elf, Dellynn, one of the acolytes who has helped you before.

[10:39 PM] DM: They look up and smile, standing to greet you. "How can I help you find what you seek today?"

[10:41 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Actually, it's not knowledge we seek today," Ryleigh moves slightly aside, her hand extended in Alarys' direction. "The Moonborn requested to come here."

[10:43 PM] DM: Before Ryleigh can get the whole statement out, there's a bit of a commotion before an older half-elven man in very nice blue and silver robes, with his long, silver hair in a low ponytail, rushes forward with his arms open. He stops a respectful distance away from Alarys. "Moonborn. Welcome. I am the Nightmaster, Swain. We look forward to serving you and helping you to serve our Lady. I apologize for not greeting you on arrival. I only just heard from Our Lady that you'd arrived in Riverrun."

[10:45 PM] DM: Alarys: "Thank you. These people all helped me get here. The Dawnguard and my two friends, Taji and Yahya."

[10:46 PM] DM: The Nightmaster bows. "Your services are much appreciated. Dellynn, can you see that they are properly compensated?"

[10:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh puts up her hand. "Please, Nightmaster. Compensation isn't necessary."

[10:47 PM] DM: Yahya: "This is... amazing. Can I be an acolyte?"

[10:48 PM] DM: The Nightmaster chuckles. "We are always looking for enthusiastic new members of our church. Please, Moonborn, if you don't mind, I'll take you to the back where we've prepared quarters for you."

[10:49 PM] DM: Alarys nods and turns back to the rest of you. "Thank you. For everything you've done to get me here. If you need anything, let me know."

[10:50 PM] Urrak: "Coin would be very much appreciated"

[10:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "And if you ever need anything, you're always welcome to stop by our guildhall," Ryleigh says, with a small smile. "Take care of yourself and your friends, Alarys."

[10:51 PM] Urrak: "Which, takes a lot of gold to run. Th' Guildhall, that is," she nudges Ryleigh with her elbow

[10:52 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh raises an eyebrow at Urrak.

10:52 PM] DM: The Nightmaster, Alarys, Yahya, and Taji all head to the back of the temple.

[10:52 PM] DM: Another blue-robed acolyte comes out of a back room with a small chest and hands it to Dellynn who hands it to Urrak. "With the thanks of the Nightmaster."

[10:52 PM] Urrak: "An' thank ye t' th' NIghtmaster," Urrak cradles the chest.

[10:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh turns around and walks out of the temple.

[10:53 PM] DM: And as you all find yourselves back home for the first time in nearly a month, we're going to call it here and allow for squish over the week for the night of homecoming.

[10:54 PM] DM: The chest has 25 platinum pieces in it.

## Ryfika

12:47 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryfika head to Ry's apartment to discuss Moonborn things. Once they're inside, Ryleigh starts to take off her armor.

[12:48 PM] DM: Rukiya chuckles. "Here I thought you'd want to talk first."

[12:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh stops unclasping her chest piece, rolling her eyes and smiling. "I just want to be out of my armor for a little while. I rarely took it off while we were in Ascus."

[12:52 PM] DM: "That doesn't surprise me." Rukiya moves behind her and helps Ry out of it. "How are you doing?"

[12:54 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Half shrugging, Ryleigh says, "That's a loaded question. Are you sure you don't want to ask about the Moonborn before I start crying about my past?" She tries to make it sound like she's joking.

[12:55 PM] DM: Rukiya wraps her arms around Ry's torso from behind, resting her head against Ry's back. "That stuff will still be there later."

[12:57 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh deflates at Rukiya's touch, a sigh escaping her lips. “Going back to Ascus reminded me why I spent so much time isolating myself from everything and everyone."

[1:01 PM] DM: "You didn't forget how to let people in, I hope..."

[1:05 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Turning in Rukiya's arms, Ryleigh dips her head to press a swift kiss to her lips. "No, never with you... I think you've permanently brought down that wall."

[1:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: A moment later, the words are tumbling out of Ryleigh's mouth. "Being back there made be realize that I don’t belong with the humans and that I’m not welcome with the non-humans. The Astens there… most of them are okay with the way things are, and they think I should have faith in the path He has for me, that I should accept that maybe I have only part of the picture. And the Whispers in Ascus didn’t trust me. They all thought I was the enemy because I look like I am. I spent years distancing myself so I wouldn’t feel like this again… like I’m being pulled in every direction, and yet, I don’t belong anywhere. It really made me think - made me realize some things.”

[1:08 PM] DM: "I'm sorry I asked you to go back... realize what?"

[1:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You might have asked, but you didn't force me... I went because I knew it was the right thing to do," Ryleigh says determinedly.

[1:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I realized that Whispers doesn’t ever give me assignments, because of course they don’t - I’m not what they need. The most important mission they’ve ever given me was to fetch you from Bellbury, because you’re the operative they can’t afford to lose.” Ryleigh grins sadly at Rukiya. “Or that the Asten Temple hasn’t trusted me with a mission since I failed at Myrka 2 years ago when I tarnished Asten’s name and made a fool of myself.” She clenches her jaw, swallowing hard against the emotion building in her throat. “I used to believe the Dawnguard needed me, but they don’t. There’s nothing I do better than anyone else in the group - other than speak, and be human. How can I be part of 3 organizations and none of them need me?”

[1:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: After a few moments Ryleigh continues, “That’s what I realized while I was in Ascus… that they don't need me, but... it’s me who needs them. I need Whispers because I believe in fighting tyranny, in making a better world. I need Asten because the world is filled with darkness and despair, and I want to bring light and hope, and freedom, to those places. I need the Dawnguard because I’m better when I’m not alone, and I hate myself less when they’re around.”

[1:20 PM] DM: "There's nothing wrong with needing people, Ry. We all need connections in our lives... people we can talk to, people we trust. They do need you, and so do I."

[1:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh smiles and as she says the next bit, her eyes are steady, but her voice shakes. “Good, because I may need them... but not as much as I need you." She pauses, a spike of anxiety hitting her that she forces herself to push through. "I need you more than the anger… more than the vengeance. I need you more than Whispers.” She hesitates, only for a moment, before adding, “Asten forgive me, but I need you more than Him too. And Rukiya... I’m scared of what that means, or what it says about me, but I know it’s true.” Ryleigh’s eyes fill with tears as she realizes exactly what she's confessing. Then she softly says, “I’m flawed, and struggling, and uncertain, but I choose you, and I’ll always choose you, because you give me somewhere to belong.”

[1:34 PM] DM: Rukiya's eyes tear up and she leans up, wrapping her arms around Ry's neck to kiss her. "I'm with you. We can figure out the rest."

[1:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Closing the short distance, Ryleigh kisses Rukiya... it's desperate and needy and without really thinking, Ryleigh lifts Rukiya, pressing her against the nearest wall.

[1:52 PM] DM: -----

[1:59 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's laying on her side, the sheet pulled to her waist. Her fingers drift slowly up and down Rukiya's spine, every now and then she'll press a kiss to Rukiya's shoulder.

[2:03 PM] DM: Rukiya smiles softly into her pillow. "What's on your mind, Ry?"

[2:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Move in with me?" Ryleigh asks.

[2:07 PM] DM: She smirks, cracking one eye open with a quirked eyebrow. "I sleep here more than at Whispers. Haven't I practically already?"

[2:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yes... but like, I mean... an apartment with a bedroom, so you can have some privacy when people barge in. A place where it's ours, not just mine with a few of your things here."

[2:14 PM] DM: She's quiet for just a second, then says, "Ok."

[2:18 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh presses a kiss to Rukiya's cheek. "How have you been? With all this 'Moonborn' stuff."

[2:24 PM] DM: Rukiya rolls to her side, propping her head up on her elbow. She uses her free hand to play with the fingers Ry had been tracing her back with.  "Curious, mostly."

[2:26 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Anything you want to ask about? I did just spend two weeks with her."

[2:30 PM] DM: She sighs and rolls her eyes with a smile. "Ok, fine... Not so much curious about her specifically, but about Vydea's... motivation."

[2:38 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Is that jealousy I'm detecting?" Ryleigh says, careful to keep her tone light and not accusing.

[2:46 PM] DM: "Pft. Jealousy? Over a thing I thought I'd given up when I left? That would be childish and silly."

[2:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "*L'auorphiem*... it's just me. You don't have to pretend you're not upset. Your feelings aren't childish or silly."

[2:55 PM] DM: "I'm not upset... but maybe I did have some lingering hope that I hadn't given up everything and that she'd still find a use for me." She chews on her lip a little and her eyes start to water. "But maybe I just disappointed her too. It's hard not to feel like I ruined everything."

[3:01 PM] DM: "Ok... maybe a little upset."

[3:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh scoots closer and cups Rukiya's cheek. "I wish I could tell you why Vydea chose another... but I'm..." she sighs "...you've found purpose outside of Vydea these last few years, haven't you? You're helping people, Rukiya... and you're doing it without her help. You don't need her."

[3:24 PM] DM: "I know..." She takes a deep breath and exhales. "So... what's she like?"

[3:32 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "She's not you," Ryleigh answers, "but she is kind, and wants to help people. But we didn't spend a lot of time together. I'm the enemy, remember?" She half teases.

[3:38 PM] DM: "What, you mean your charm didn't break down all those pre-existing ideas about Astens immediately?"

[3:42 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh laughs. “Was it my charm that won you over?”

[3:43 PM] DM: "It didn't hurt," she grins.

[3:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “So it wasn’t just my pretty face and hot bod?” Ryleigh jokes.

[3:54 PM] DM: "Those helped too," she laughs, "but we were friends first... and that wasn't because of all this," she gestures at the whole of Ry, "or your honeyed tongue... but what's in here." She puts her palm against Ry's chest. "And no, I don't mean the so-called monster you thought was in there, either." She doesn't say anything else for a moment, then hums a little, smiles, and scoots in close to cuddle up against Ry, resting her head on Ry's shoulder.

[4:02 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know there's something dark in me... something that itches to get out every now and then, that makes me want to make wrong doers suffer... to make them hurt the way they've hurt others, but I'm learning to hate myself less the longer you stick around, and the more friends I make."

[4:04 PM] DM: "Good... I don't like the idea of anyone hating you... yourself included."

[4:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh presses a kiss to Rukiya's forehead. "Did the sending stones help you worry less?"

[4:08 PM] DM: "Mostly... though there were a couple times that the word limit wasn't enough. They were a great idea."

[4:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Saying anything in 25 words is hard for me," Ryleigh says, then hesitantly adds, "I'm just curious... do you use the bracers more or just... carry the stone?"

[4:16 PM] DM: "Just curious, huh?" Rukiya teases, pressing a kiss to Ry's jaw. "It depends on what I'm wearing. I love the bracers, but they don't really work with formal wear."

[4:17 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I suppose they wouldn't look good with a evening gown, would they?" There's a bit of anxious energy coming off of Ryleigh.

[4:23 PM] DM: "*But*..." she says, rolling away from Ry and standing. She walks over to where her clothes were thrown and digs through them a bit before finding what she's looking for. She comes back to the bed, sitting next to Ry. "That's why I had these made. Simple, inexpensive, but they look nice." She holds a small box out to Ryleigh.

[4:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes the box, a little unsure and opens it.

[4:27 PM] DM: There are two bracelets inside. One is delicate, silver herringbone chain with a golden sun charm attached at the center. The other's a little sturdier, braided rope chain in gold with a small silver disc at the center.

"A crescent seemed too obvious, so I thought full would be a good compromise."

[7:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Rukiya..." Ryleigh says, her tone disbelieving. Her glossy eyes move from the bracelets to Rukiya's eyes. "I... I'm afraid these might mean more to me than you might mean them to..."

[7:43 PM] DM: Rukiya chuckles. "Do you think I can't read between the lines, Ry? Tell what you're saying when you pull up short?" She looks down for a moment and takes Ry's hands in hers, setting the bracelets aside for the moment. "I've told you I need you. I told you I'm with you. I don't know how else to tell you how important you are to me." She looks back up and makes sure to meet Ry's eyes. "You're my home too."

[7:59 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: A few tears escape and roll down Ryleigh's cheeks. "I didn't mean to doubt your feelings... I just wanted to make sure you understood what you’re giving me." She lets go of Rukiya's hands to cup her face with both hands. Ryleigh leans in to capture her lips in a lingering kiss. Then she says, her tone watery, "The bracelet is beautiful. It's perfect and I love it... is it okay if I put it on you?"

[8:02 PM] DM: She takes a moment to brush Ry's tears away with her thumbs before she nods.

[8:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh picks up the box, taking out Rukiya's bracelet and carefully clasping it onto her wrist. She stares at it for a moment, more tears falling from her eyes.

[8:09 PM] DM: "My turn?"

[8:14 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh nods and wipes at her eyes, then holds out her hand.

[8:18 PM] DM: Rukiya clasps the gold bracelet around Ry's wrist, then holds her hand and smirks. "Naked and in bed wasn't exactly how I planned this to happen, but I suppose I should have expected it."

[8:20 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You had something planned?" Ryleigh asks, struggling to speak around the emotion in her throat.

[8:22 PM] DM: Rukiya climbs back up to her spot in the bed and snuggles close. "Nothing solid, just vague ideas of waiting until the right moment. Maybe dinner or a walk in a secluded place."

[8:25 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's arms immediately wrap around her."I'm sorry if I ruined it."

[8:30 PM] DM: "You couldn't ruin it. Besides," she adds as she turns and straddles Ry's lap. "This is one of my favorite places anyway."

[8:37 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's hands fall to Rukiya's hips. "I promise it wasn't my intention for us to spend the rest of the day in bed, but you're making it particularly difficult for me to want to leave anytime soon."

[8:38 PM] DM: "Maybe that was my intention."

[8:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: That makes Ryleigh smile, and she leans up to kiss Rukiya, but before their lips meet, Ryleigh whispers, "Even if it wasn’t, I’m glad we’re here."

## Seiryleigh and Devil's Food

\*\*3 Ropamont\*\*

9:24 PM] DM: Rukiya had told Ry there were some new developments, so you'd have known that it was a 'Ry's apartment' sort of conversation until you've decided to share with the rest of the class. So you show up sometime after Seir's woken up, Rukiya's having her coffee, Gunnloda made breakfast for the 30 people living in the guildhall for the night.

[9:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's dressed comfortably, clothing resembling workout attire. She's a little sweaty, and her cheeks are pink. She's drinking her coffee, while holding Rukiya's free hand and a stupid smile on her face.

[9:36 PM] Seirixori: "Well, that's an improvement," Seir says when she catches Ry's smile.

[9:36 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Hush," Ryleigh says, her tone serious but her eyes dancing with humor.

[9:43 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh looks at Rukiya, just to make sure she's okay with Ryleigh sharing. "We had a good evening," she says to fill the silence.

[9:44 PM] DM: Rukiya and Gunnloda both chuckle.

[9:44 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Momentarily confused, Ryleigh quickly amends her statement. "That's not what I meant!"

[9:45 PM] DM: Rukiya smiles into her coffee. "Still true, though."

[9:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh blushes.

[9:46 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: It takes her a few seconds to recover, then she says, "I meant because we exchanged tokens of commitment last night."

[9:49 PM] Seirixori: Seir laughs, teasing, but also excited, "Of course that's how you would say it." Seir waits a beat and then pulls both Ry and Rukiya into an enthusiastic hug.

[9:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh rolls her eyes, before hugging Seir back.

[9:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "So what's going on with refugees? Are we escorting them to Bellbury or just sending them on their way?"

[9:54 PM] Seirixori: "Oh!" Seir steps back, her excitement shifting, "I was going to help them get there and maybe a little settled for the day and then come back!"

[9:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh looks like she wants protest, but doesn't. "Ok, just... be careful."

[9:57 PM] Seirixori: She grins, "Nah."

[9:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Again, Ryleigh rolls her eyes. "You could at least pretend to humor me."

[10:00 PM] Seirixori: "I could."

[10:02 PM] Seirixori: Seir moves away and makes herself comfortable as she sits on the floor, "So, what's the other news?"

[10:03 PM] DM: Rukiya: "It's not much, so I hope you didn't get too excited."

[10:05 PM] Seirixori: "I'm actually a little worried about other things related to it, honestly."

[10:05 PM] DM: Rukiya: "What do you mean?"

[10:07 PM] Seirixori: "The uh, timing of the..." She frowns, "'new'? Moonborn."

[10:09 PM] DM: Rukiya frowns, and you can almost see the gears turning in her head. "You think Vydea wanted to spy on her?"

[10:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's brows furrow.

[10:14 PM] Seirixori: Seir shrugs, "I don't know. Maybe? I don't know much about Vydea, so I can't say for certain.  It's just... Something to think about."

[10:15 PM] DM: Rukiya: "She does value knowledge." She frowns a little more then shakes her head. "I don't know."

\*

[5:20 PM] Seirixori: Seir pulls her knees to her chest, resting her chin on them, "Did you have a chance to find anything out that would- that would help my Mama?" She asks quietly.

[5:29 PM] DM: Rukiya glances away for a second. "I'm sorry, Seirixori... I just don't know enough about what's going on with her. There's so many variables. And after I turned the contract over to one of the tomekeepers I trust to look into, I got distracted by the other thing.

"All I can tell, for now, is that she seems to be working for the Queen of Air and Darkness. She's... a very powerful fey queen, powerful enough that she'd have to act through agents like the gods. Her specialties are murder, darkness.. and illusions. My best guess is that she's being affected by some powerful magic that's messing with her perceptions or her memories. Maybe both."

[5:40 PM] Seirixori: She let's out a defeated sigh that's followed by a long moment of silence as she tightens her arms around her legs. "Okay," She finally whispers.

[5:41 PM] DM: Gunnloda puts her hand on Seir's back and kisses her shoulder.

[6:03 PM] Seirixori: Seir leans into her touch and takes a deep breath. She turns focus to Ryleigh, her gaze apologetic, "I gave you time, issui’as. Will you talk about Sir fuck face... and about what he said?"

[7:32 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh visibly stiffens and nearly drops her cup of coffee. "W-what about what he said?"

[7:39 PM] DM: Rukiya takes her hand, but doesn't say anything.

[7:46 PM] Seirixori: She sighs and doesn't respond, just continues looking at Ryleigh.

[7:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I..." Ryleigh takes a shuddering breath, and says in a very small voice, "I don't want to talk about it."

[8:01 PM] DM: Rukiya: "Talking might help you heal... and you won't find a safer place than here with us."

[8:04 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm afraid of what you'll think of me."

[8:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir rolls her eyes, but there's a reassuring smile, "I think I've told you the answer to that before."

[8:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's brows furrow, then she starts to talk, “I got on Sir Barton’s bad side after the public whipping. It felt like he and Daybrand, the Lord of the land, were out to get me, so naturally… I made as much trouble as I could get away with, but I wasn’t really getting away with it. After my sister was taken,” Ryleigh stops, biting her lip and huffing out a breath, “after she was sold to the highest bidder... I started looking for people who’d help me change things. My dad had been murdered by the ‘law’. My sister was sold as a songbird. And I had to watch as my brother eased his broken heart by self medicating.” She loosens her death grip on Rukiya’s hand, and gives her an apologetic look.

[8:14 PM] DM: Rukiya wraps her arms around Ry's waist. "You're ok."

[8:17 PM] Seirixori: Seir tilts her head, "What's a so-- sorry. I don't, what does that have to do with what he said?" She asks, not quite understanding.

[8:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm getting there..." Ryleigh answers, taking another deep breath.

8:28 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I did find like minded people. Most of them were non-humans wanting to bring about change. That’s when I learned elven… so we could speak in code,” Ryleigh’s tone sounds amused, like she can’t believe she ever thought elven wasn’t a commonly known language. “We organized a revolt... the adults didn't like that I was there, but they couldn't stop me. We were going to force change... we were supposed to overthrow Daybrand. I thought if I believed hard enough that it'd work, that we could birth a revolution and stop the suffering. I thought I was doing the right thing." She audibly swallows, and her eyes tear up. "It didn't. We failed, and some people got caught. The guards came to our door looking for a human who'd 'lead the revolt', and I knew I'd been caught."

[8:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Avery," Ryleigh smiles sadly, a few tears falling from her eyes. "He said it was him, that he wanted to overthrow Daybrand because they'd taken Clemency. They took him, but they also took me. I waited in jail cell for a few hours before Sir Barton paid me a visit. He told me that he'd caught many of my co-conspirators and had their families in custody. He also told me that he knew it was me and not my brother who'd played a role in 'this mess'."

[8:39 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "A few of Barton's guards died in our uprising, and I could tell he was out for blood." A tremble travels through Ryleigh. "He was going to kill their families... unless... he had a pound of flesh per life lost. I wasn't going to let innocent people pay our mistakes... my mistakes. So I agreed, because 1 life for many is a fair deal. I didn't know he didn't mean my life, or my flesh..."

[8:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I carved chunks of my brother's flesh off... and the crowd jeered while I did. Every time I wanted to stop because I couldn't take his screams, Avery encouraged me to keep at it... he reminded me that if I didn't - innocent people were going to die." Ryleigh's tears are freely flowing now, her hands come up to cover her face and her next sentence is a little muffled. "I tortured my brother, before they cut off his head... and Barton let me live..."

[8:47 PM] DM: Rukiya stands so she can pull Ryleigh into her chest and holds her tight. She presses a kiss to the top of her head and says, "His sickness isn't your fault, Ryleigh."

[8:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Maybe not," Ryleigh sobs, leaning into Rukiya. "But my brother suffered by my hand, and died because I made the wrong choice."

[8:53 PM] Seirixori: Seir doesn't say anything right away, when she does, her voice doesn't waver, but her eyes are burning with anger. Her fists clenching and unclenching at her side, "No matter the reason, do not let me go back into Ascus. Or I will not keep the promise I made you."

[8:56 PM] DM: Gunnloda doesn't know what to do in this moment, so she just takes one of Seir's hands in hers.

[9:00 PM] DM: Rukiya leans back enough that she can look for Ry's eyes. "Ryleigh... you have to stop blaming yourself for these things. You were a tool, not the cause. It may have been your hands, but it was his fault. You were doing what's right. Everything bad that came from that is just... the sickness in Ascus fighting back. Using the families of innocents is no different from using mind control magic. You are not to blame for the things you did because you were forced."

[9:09 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's face contorts with pain, and she continues to cry. She literally chokes out, "I don't know how... it was still me, my hands..."

[9:39 PM] Seirixori: Seir gets to her feet, taking one step towards Ryleigh, "By doing what you originally set out to do. With a little bit more finesse and a lot more information. By making that change and not giving that rla'hom raunnagh sha soaa the satisfaction of hurting you any more. By getting rid of everything he's worked for. By taking back what he took from you. Your will. Your body. Yourself." She snarls, "because in that moment, they were not your hands, they were his."

[9:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Finally calming down a little, Ryleigh holds one of her hands out to Seir and she softly says, "Homashoc, please try to calm down... my apartment is too small to fit a bear and us three..."

[9:59 PM] Seirixori: Seir's eyes narrow briefly and then she blinks, "At least I'd be a cute bear." She mumbles, releasing Gunnloda's hand with a squeeze, and shakes out her arms like she's trying to get rid of the excess energy. When it doesn't really work she takes Ryleigh's hand and walks right into both her and Rukiya, hugging them both.

[10:02 PM] DM: Rukiya hugs both of them too, then adds, "Someday, we'll go back. Not for vengeance, but justice. To protect the others he'll do the same to in the future. And I'll be by your side when we do."

[10:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thank you," Ryleigh says to both of them. "I've never told anyone about this. I feel a little better now that I have."

[10:09 PM] DM: Rukiya: "Good... and I'm so sorry for what you've been through, but we're here to help you recover from it."

[10:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh worries her lip, and nods.

[10:11 PM] DM: Rukiya smiles. "Haven't you learned not to doubt me yet?"

[10:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "What if... what if I don't recover?" Ryleigh voices the source of her doubt, then quickly adds, “And I know I can’t get stuck on the what-ifs, that I shouldn't focus on everything that went wrong, but I don’t know how to find meaning in the suffering... other than be angry about it, or seek vengeance. I'm worried I can't recover.”

[10:19 PM] DM: Rukiya: "You already are. You said it yourself last night that you're doing better. You'll never be the same person you were, but you can be better than you are."

[10:26 PM] Seirixori: Seir pulls away and moves back to Gunnloda  settling behind her and wraps her arms around her, "What she said and... sometimes... sometimes there isn't a meaning. Sometimes shit just sucks and we- we go through it and deal with it how we can and then... onto the next thing." Seir shrugs, "Or something." She mutters, feeling less confident with her words now that she isn't focused on her anger.

[10:28 PM] DM: Gunnloda finally speaks up. "Sayin' there was a reason for it sounds a whole lot like sayin' y'deserved it or needed it t'become who y'are."

[10:34 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm working on the 'I deserved it' thing... and I’ll keep trying to get better… I just don’t want to let anyone down. I've done enough of that already."

[10:41 PM] DM: Rukiya: "As long as you don't give up, you won't let us down."

[10:43 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh pulls Rukiya into her lap, and promptly kisses her. "Gods, I love you, l'auorphiem."

[10:46 PM] DM: She laughs and says, "I know."

[11:06 PM] Seirixori: "Not to bring the mood down again, especially from this part of... is it just like married or some other... the before that part? I don't remember the word, either way, do you want to know about the other thing?"

[11:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "The other thing?"

[11:12 PM] Seirixori: "What I spoke to Takara about."

[11:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Oh... that." Ryleigh nods. "Yeah... I guess I'm ready to hear what she had to say."

[11:23 PM] Seirixori: She frowns, still a bit hesitant and trying again to not be so blunt with her words, "He..." She stops and Gunnloda can feel Seir's arms tense. "I don't know how to say this without insulting him."

[11:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Insulting him, or me?" Ryleigh gives Seir a small smile.

[11:25 PM] Seirixori: "Him. Definitely him."

[4:31 AM] Seirixori: "There's a chance some of Takara's own feelings are... are fueling my own. He's..." Seir purses her lips with a frown, still trying to find better words. She finally exhales with a sound of annoyance. "Mostly in her words; he's an invader, a drain on her domains, their stupid ass invasion meant that she lost- she lost," Seir's jaw clenches as she stops the bubble of emotion in her throat. "he's part of the reason she lost someone. Also something about claiming humanity as his own. And, and, apparently an arrogant, tiny man-child who pouts and hides for several hundred years because he lost a fight and she won't let me provoke him so I can punch him in the face." She finishes, leaning back and crossing her arms and pouting herself. "I bet Aella would have talked to me. I could have had four moms." The last part is mumbled and she makes a face like she suddenly doesn't know how exactly she would feel about that.

[9:00 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes Rukiya's hand, idly rubbing circles with her thumb as she thinks. "Claiming humanity as his own..." Ryleigh repeats, sighing deeply. She's quiet for a few more moments, then says, "Takara said he hasn't been around for a few hundred years? What... what does that mean? Vyon declared its independence from Ascus and he just... left us?"

[11:32 AM] Seirixori: "She said he went back to his realm..." she stops only now fully understanding what Takara had said about that. She leans forward, wrapping her arms around Gunnloda again, "I... it's possible he isn't interested in..." Seir doesn't continue.

[11:46 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: “In what?” Ryleigh pushes.

[11:59 AM] Seirixori: "In what's happening here."

[12:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Maybe there’s another reason he’s been gone for so long? Maybe he’s stuck in his realm or something...” Ryleigh says, her brows furrowing. “Maybe that’s why things are so bad and everyone is misusing Asten’s name... because he isn’t around, and he doesn’t have a champion to set things right...”

[12:21 PM] Seirixori: "It... could be possible." Seir releases a soft sigh, using Gunnloda to hide her face momentarily. "Issui'as... I'm sorry."

[12:51 PM] DM: Rukiya squeezes Ry's hand. "If he did have a champion, I'd bet on it being one of the royal family or someone close to Tilman. He's too eager to paint himself Sun King to have competition."

[12:52 PM] DM: She kind of winces. "That... wasn't helpful, was it? Sorry, just thinking out loud."

[1:31 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh’s quiet for a while, worry lining her features. Finally she asks, “I wonder if there’s a way to  speak to a god while they’re in their realm. Without being a champion.”

[3:11 PM] Seirixori: "Maybe even just talking to his champion, but... I really don't think it's going to change much either way."

[3:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Of course you don’t think it’ll change anything, but for those of us who aren’t related to a god, \*” Ryleigh bites her sentence short. She closes her eyes, collecting herself. “I need to know why he’s gone and what happened. I don’t believe that he willingly abandoned us, or that he’s okay with how Ascus is... he’s the god of freedom, of light... something’s got to be wrong.”

[3:47 PM] Seirixori: Seir stiffens and even with the change in what Ry was saying, she doesn't relax, she only nods in response.

[4:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know you all think I'm ridiculous..." Ryleigh says, moving Rukiya off her lap and getting up. She walks to the kitchen and starts making tea.

[5:15 PM] Seirixori: "...it doesn't matter what I think." Seir sighs, "I'll help you."

[6:18 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It does matter what you think!" Ry half shouts, there's the sound of a cup breaking and she groans. "That's why hurts that you think I'm being stupid about this. Why can't you understand... I swore an oath, Seirixori. It's more than a promise and if I break it..." She sighs.

[6:20 PM] DM: Rukiya: "Then what? You're a terrible person for not doing what was expected of you? For learning and growing and changing your mind?"

[6:25 PM] Seirixori: Seir shrinks back slightly and doesn't say anything. She looks down and starts to rub her thumb across her finger.

[6:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Is it really that hard to believe that Tilman has manipulated Asten's name to his own ends? Believe it or not, I'm not the only Asten who's like this. There are more of us... like my mentor, and Lydia."

[6:38 PM] DM: Rukiya softens her voice and walks close to Ryleigh. "You're not ridiculous for believing in him, but I worry you put too much of your worth in him. You don't have to prove he's good for you to be good."

[7:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: As Rukiya approaches, Ryleigh's shoulders fall at her words, she's a little ashamed. "How can I represent goodness and freedom and light, if He isn't any of those things?"

[8:01 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I'm sorry..." She says to the room. "I've been doubting my 'faith' in Asten recently, and it feels like I don't know who I am anymore. I'm scared. What if Asten isn't who I think He is?  If he's not... then I won't believe anymore... and I'll never see them again... I'll never get to tell Avery how sorry I am... or tell Kizer how much I loved him, or that it meant everything to me that he took us in. Asten could strip me of His power, and then I wouldn't have the tools I need to stop people like Barton, or Daybrand..."

[8:03 PM] DM: Rukiya just steps forward and wraps her arms around Ryleigh.

[8:08 PM] Seirixori: "You can always get it from someone else," Seir says, barely above a whisper. "I know that isn't- that doesn't help with the- the other stuff but..." She shrugs, still not looking directly at Ry. "but I'm sure there's someone who would give you that power..." She let's out a little laugh, "not that you need it, but I know it helps."

[8:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's arms come up around Rukiya. She whispers something in elven to her and kisses her. "Thank you for thinking I don't need it, homashoc..." Ryleigh smiles "...but this power isn't just to stop them, it's also so I can protect the people I cherish."

[8:39 PM] Seirixori: "I know, it was kind of a little joke. Something I've said before."

[9:11 PM] DM: Rukiya: "You don't need to make any decisions right now. We'll figure it out. All of it."

[9:18 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You keep saying that..." Ryleigh says, cupping Rukiya's cheek.

[9:21 PM] DM: Rukiya: "It's what I do. Learn. Wait. Analyze. Act when the time is right, when I have the knowledge I need. Figure it out. Have patience, minsriellu. We're not going anywhere and apparently he isn't either."

[9:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm human remember?" Ryleigh half smiles. "Patience isn't one of my strengths, but... I trust you. So if waiting and learning and having patience is what you need, I'll try."

[10:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh let's go of Rukiya and walks over to Seir. She holds her hand out. "Homashoc."

[10:21 PM] Seirixori: Her gaze is still focused on the ground, "Yeah?"

[10:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm sorry for yelling..." Ryleigh says softly, kneeling down. "I know you're trying to help, but it's not an easy decision for me... and every time we talk about this it feels like I'm disappointing you by not walking away from Asten."

[10:33 PM] Seirixori: "You--you're not," She whispers with conviction, finally looking up, her eyes a little watery. "I'm- I want- I'm frustrated because I know, I know it isn't easy, but I- I don't want to see you hurting more about this, and I want to skip to the after part."

[10:40 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh looks over at Rukiya, then back at Seir. "We're going to figure it out. And in the mean time, when I struggle just be there for me, as best you can, because I can't do this alone... I need you."

[11:06 PM] Seirixori: She nods and finally takes Ryleigh's hand. "I'll be here."

[11:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh pulls Seir up and into a hug. “I’ll try not to lose my temper next time, but just remember that what you think always matters to me.”

[11:25 PM] Seirixori: "Okay," she tightens her arms around Ry. "Okay."

[11:28 PM] Seirixori: She pulls back and gently grabs Ryleigh's wrist to look at the bracelet there. "This is really pretty, by the way."

[11:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Unsurprisingly, Rukiya has good taste.”

[11:32 PM] DM: It's a gold braided chain with a silver disc set in the center.

Rukiya: "Flatterer."

[11:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh winks at Rukiya, while Seir continues to look.

[11:50 PM] Seirixori: Seir lightly traces her finger over it with a small smile. "Can I see yours?" She asks Rukiya.

[11:50 PM] DM: Rukiya shrugs and holds her wrist out. "Sure."

[11:52 PM] DM: She glances at Ry.

[11:56 PM] DM: Hers is silver herringbone, more delicate, with a golden sun charm

[12:04 AM] Seirixori: Seir moves to look at Rukiya's "They're so pretty." She lightly taps the charm, "I know this probably represents Ry, that's easy. What's the one she has mean?"

[12:14 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Silver is the balance between black and white... and that’s how I see things - in black and white, in terms of good and evil, right and wrong. Rukiya sees things in grey... like doing something wrong for the right reasons. My charm is a silver disk to represent the balance between us... how we compliment each other.” ((26 deception))

[2:40 PM] Seirixori: She takes it in for a moment and then gives a small laugh. "So kind of like the sun and moon? You should have gone with that explanation." She grins and winks at Rukiya. "The moon is prettier anyway." ((24 insight))

[2:43 PM] DM: Rukiya leans in and conspiratorially says, "I almost went with stars instead. It is the moon, because I'm from Vyon and she's from Ascus and we complement each other, but you know how extra she has to make everything sound."

[2:45 PM] Seirixori: There's a beat and then Seir bursts into laughter, throwing her arms around Rukiya, giving her another excited hug. "See, new favorite," She says to Ryleigh.

[2:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's smiling but she rolls her eyes at them and moves to hug them both. "I didn't realize it was a competition," Ryleigh answers, humor in her tone.

[2:51 PM] DM: Rukiya laughs. "Of course not... because I'm winning."

[2:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You usually do, l'auorphiem," Ryleigh says as she steps away from them, something soft in her expression.

[3:05 PM] Seirixori: Seir giggles, keeping an arm around Rukiya and reaches out towards Gunnloda, motioning for her to come. "I love you guys."

[3:06 PM] DM: Gunnloda takes Seir's hand and kisses it. She has a kind of strange expression on her face. Almost bittersweet.

[3:12 PM] Seirixori: Seir kneels, giving Gunnloda a swift kiss and whispers, "Later?" Then stands back up again.

[3:14 PM] DM: Gunnloda smiles and turns to Ry. "So... am I cookin' somethin' nice t'celebrate?"

[3:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh awkwardly scratches the back of her neck, and looks at Rukiya. "My cooking certainly isn't as good as yours..." but she doesn't directly answer.

[3:23 PM] DM: Rukiya rolls her eyes. "I think what she means is, 'that would be wonderful. Thank you.'"

[3:25 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes Rukiya's hand and presses a kiss to it. "When are you going to get back from Bellbury? Are you sure you don't want my help?"

[3:35 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs, "Today? Maybe tomorrow depending on how long it takes to get them settled. I wanted to give all of you some rest so I wasn't going to ask if anyone wanted to come... and," she sighs, "I didn't want... I wanted to," she frowns, the words not forming like she needs, "With-with what happened before- I didn't want anyone to- to speak for me."

3:44 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Oh," Ryleigh says, studying the look on Seir's face. "If this is something you want to do on your own, I understand. I didn't want you to feel like you didn't have help... if you wanted it. Maybe we can do dinner tomorrow night? That way there's no rush to get back - in case you need to stay to get them settled."

[4:04 PM] Seirixori: She nods, relieved she was understood, "That- yes. Thank you."

[4:31 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh steps back into Seir's space, and presses her forehead to Seir's. "I love you, please be careful, and..." She pulls back, smiling broadly "...don't forget to have fun."

[5:07 PM] Seirixori: "Yes, mom." She teases.

[5:08 PM] DM: Gunnloda: "Uh... speakin' of... when did y'want t'go do that?"

[5:13 PM] Seirixori: Seir groans, "I'm almost afraid to say I want to wait until after tomorrow...but after tomorrow. Unless you want dinner in Ardabeh... Though I don't know about where because I've only been to one place that uh let me in... So uh...yes."

[5:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'd like Rukiya to be at dinner, considering its a celebration of sorts," Ryleigh says, laughing a little. "And I don't think she's planning on coming to Ardabeh with us. So if it's okay with you... could we wait until after tomorrow?"

[5:22 PM] Seirixori: "Oh, right. I knew that. Yes. Unless... Things come up... again."

[5:24 PM] DM: Rukiya: "I'm sorry that it got postponed last time, but I am... extremely grateful that you were there when I couldn't be."

[5:26 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's brows furrow and she moves back to Rukiya's side, wrapping an arm around her and presses a kiss to her temple.

[5:32 PM] Seirixori: She nods again. "Of course."

[5:39 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm thankful too, homashoc... it would have been so much worse if you hadn't been there."

[5:42 PM] Seirixori: "Well, if I hadn't taken that bottle from you and thrown it away, I might not have been threatened to be turned into a shadow tree person, so..." She chuckles nervously.

[5:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh tries to laugh, but it's mostly fake. "It ended up working out okay though."

[5:56 PM] DM: Rukiya: "sounds like you had quite the adventure. "

[6:02 PM] Seirixori: "Something like that...I wish I could ask the druids or Mielikki about the creepy shadow trees." She purses her lips, "But that's about as terrible an idea as Ry's with the bottle."

[6:09 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Quirking an eyebrow at Seir, Ryleigh relents, "I get it, okay? It was a mistake." She walks over to the bag of holding and withdraws a different, full bottle of alcohol. "I'll bring it to dinner tomorrow."

[6:14 PM] Seirixori: Seir dramatically gasps and points at Ry, but with a smile on her face, "Devious."

[6:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh rolls her eyes and sets the bottle down on the kitchen counter. "Yeah, yeah."

[6:27 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Could I convince you to send one of us a message when you reach Bellbury? Just to let me know if you're coming home tonight or tomorrow?"

[6:28 PM] DM: Gunnloda: "I'll let y'know."

[6:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thank you," Ryleigh says to Gunnloda.

## After they leave

7:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh closes the door behind Seirixori and Gunnloda. She takes a deep breath and turns back to look at Rukiya.

[7:48 PM] DM: Rukiya closes the distance and puts her hand to Ry's cheek. "You ok?"

[7:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It was a lot. Especially with everything feeling so fresh because of Ascus." Ryleigh leans into Rukiya's touch. "I didn't mean to keep what happened to Avery from you..."

[7:54 PM] DM: Rukiya wraps her arms around Ry. "I get it. It's hard to talk about. I'm proud of you, though. Letting us in is a big deal."

[8:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's arms come up around Rukiya. "Thank you. I shouldn't be surprised by now, but part of me is always worried when I share. I'm afraid you'll look at me with pity, instead of empathy. Or that you'll see how broken I really am, and decide it isn't worth it." She smiles, but it only makes it half way. "I'm slowly learning otherwise."

[8:16 PM] DM: Rukiya puts both her hands on Ry's cheeks and looks her in the eyes. "You're always worth it."

[8:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I believe you," Ryleigh whispers, not breaking eye contact. "I really am trying to hate myself less, *fefairrul*."

[8:22 PM] DM: She leans up and kisses Ry softly. When she pulls away, she raises an eyebrow. "About the 'bottle'..."

[8:32 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh immediately worries her lip. "I bought a bottle of alcohol after we ran into Barton on the road. But I had been thinking about it for a little while... I kept having nightmares, really terrible ones that mixed my past with present. I saw Clemency in a cage, but once I got closer it was Seirixori - they were taking her. In one I saw you... dead at Tilman's feet while a guard whispered about how they'd found the Moonborn. I started sleeping less because I couldn't stomach the dreams. Then Barton showed up and... he recognized me, asked me how it felt to hurt my brother, then took responsibility for my 'turn' to the right side." She goes to sit on the bed and puts her face in her hands. "Having control wasn't working, so maybe relenting  would... I hoped it'd numb the pain, let me forget... even if it was just for a night."

[8:55 PM] DM: Rukiya sits next to her and takes her hand. "I'm not going to pretend I know what you were feeling and I'm not going to lecture you. I thought you might need to talk about it in particular, maybe without... well, a fondness for over-indulging isn't uncommon in your group." She sighs. "I'm sorry. I know you don't want to hear it, and you won't accept it, but I need to say it anyway. I'm sorry for everything you've been through before and I'm sorry you relived it the last couple weeks. I'm sorry for my part in it and I'm sorry I wasn't there to help you."

[9:05 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know you are, but I couldn't avoid Ascus forever." Ryleigh gently squeezes Rukiya's hand. "I always knew I'd have to go back... I just wasn't as prepared as I wanted to be, of course, I might have never been ready. I'm glad you weren't there... Ascus has always taken everything from me... I couldn't bear it if it took you too." She leans over and presses her forehead to Rukiya's. "I'm sure drinking that night would have turned out terribly..."

[9:07 PM] DM: "Maybe. But if you ever wanted to join me in a drink in the safety of... our apartment... just let me know."

[9:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Pulling back a little, Ryleigh's brows furrow in thought. "I... I might be more sad, or maybe more angry. I don't know... but, I'm trying to be less controlling and you're one of the only people I willingly give up control to..."

[9:18 PM] DM: "You don't have to do anything you're uncomfortable with. It's a suggestion, an offer, nothing more. I won't push you to drink. Gods know it's a delicate thing for a great many people."

[9:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh smiles, and leans in to press a kiss to Rukiya's lips. "Thank you, for offering and understanding. I'll let you know if I ever change my mind."

[9:20 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Is it weird? Saying our apartment, instead of mine?"

[9:27 PM] DM: She thinks about that for a moment. "Not... really. It's new, but... well, I've always lived in a shared space. That's not new. And being here with you isn't new either. It's the combination of the two that's new."

[9:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Okay, I just want you to keep me posted... I know it's sort of fast and a lot... all at once."

[9:30 PM] DM: "Are you worried I'll have second thoughts? Is that why you didn't accept Gunnloda's offer?"

[9:32 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know you love me. I feel it in everything you do, but..." Ryleigh shrugs. "I didn't accept because I didn't know if you wanted the others to know... Seirixori took one look at my bracelet and knew it was the moon. I thought my explanation would deter her from thinking that. It obviously didn't."

[9:38 PM] DM: "My sentimentality is going to get me in trouble, isn't it?" she laughs. "The others can know what we mean to each other. They don't need to know about my past. Seirixori... well... I know how important she is to you. Loving you includes her and she's... very perceptive. Unusually so." She pauses for a moment then adds with a smirk, "Do you think she'd like to work with us?"

[9:42 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I love that you gave each of our bracelets something personal - they're perfect." Then Ryleigh huffs out a laugh. "Actually, I've been wondering the same thing lately. I'm sure Whispers would have more use for her than they do for me. At least next to her name they can put 'perceptive' instead of 'lies good, can lift a lot'."

[9:45 PM] DM: She laughs. "Even if they don't, I can definitely appreciate your ability to lift things.... people... me...."

[9:47 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh chuckles. "Noted."

[9:47 PM] DM: "The point is... we may not be able to keep it from her forever, but... I think I'm ok with that. She's part of you as much as I am and I wouldn't want to ask you to lie to her. But... if we could try to keep it to the four of us... if she figures it out, so be it."

[9:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Let's hope she doesn't figure it out, and if she does... we'll figure it out and handle it, together."

[9:50 PM] DM: "Like everything else. I just want you to know that I'm prepared for it, if it needs to happen."

[9:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh nods, and cups Rukiya's cheek. "Any other concerns?"

[9:54 PM] DM: "Besides in my questionable decision to put a disc on your bracelet and call it a moon anyway?"

[9:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Hiding in plan sight - it could work," Ryleigh jokes, her smile growing. "I almost told her that like the moon, you're my light in the darkest nights. So at least it was you and not me giving her more hints." She laughs lightly.

[10:03 PM] DM: "Maybe I've just had the War of Sun and Moon on my mind, but it's a little poetic, isn't it? Born in Vyon and Ascus, the spy and the paladin, the one who sticks to shadows and the one who carries a beacon of light. We're two sides of the same coin, different, but complementary. Maybe I should've leaned in and gone with the crescent anyway."

[10:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's certainly romantic, the way we fit together, but I might be biased." Ryleigh moves on the bed so she can turn to face Rukiya. "I'm sure a jeweler could replace the charms if or when we need them to. I would have loved it either way, *sun'frada*."

[6:52 PM] DM: She laughs softly. "I'm sure you would have."

[8:44 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "What's that supposed to mean?" Ryleigh's eyes narrow playfully.

[8:51 PM] DM: "Just that sometimes you're remarkably easy to please."

[8:57 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yeah, I guess I am." Ryleigh grins and presses a kiss to Rukiya's cheek. "Do you want me to play hard to get sometimes?"

[9:01 PM] DM: She laughs. "I just want you to be comfortable. I'd worry that I'd take your 'hard to get' at face value."

[9:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I don't think I'd be successful at playing hard to get with you anyway." Ryleigh's smile falters, and she takes Rukiya's hand.

[9:14 PM] DM: She reaches up, putting her free hand on Ry's jaw and traces the corner of her mouth with her thumb. "What is it?"

[9:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I want to ask you something, but... I don't want you to feel like you have to answer me if you don't want to."

[9:20 PM] DM: "I get the feeling it's not about fantasies and bedroom talk," she says with a smirk before she says a little softer, "I've always trusted that if I said I couldn't answer something, you wouldn't pursue it. I don't see why you think that's changed."

[9:24 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Except that one time I forced you to confirm who you were?" Ryleigh's smile turns a bit sad, but then she asks, "Have you ever tried to talk to Vydea?"

[9:29 PM] DM: "That's a broad question with an obvious answer, but what are you actually asking?"

[9:38 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's been weighing on my mind lately. Ever since we found Alarys and she answered all the questions right. Asten's never answered me, and I was wondering if Vydea's ever answered you. Why would she abandon you when you're her family? Why would she suddenly decide that her champion doesn't need to be Moonstream? Why would she make you feel unworthy..."

[9:43 PM] DM: "If she did talk to me, it was either long enough ago that I've forgotten or subtle enough that I didn't recognize it as such. As for the rest... people expected me to be her champion, but she never promised it to me. If anything, I abandoned her when I left. Why she didn't choose Kamari, I don't know. Why she's chosen to pick someone unrelated, I don't know. Why she's chosen someone now, I don't know. They're all questions I've had since hearing about it myself, and I have no answers."

[9:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Maybe you should ask her," Ryleigh says softly, figuring she's touching on a sensitive subject. "She's like... your great grandmother or something, right?"

[10:05 PM] DM: She smiles softly. "Two greats." She sighs. "I don't know if asking would do any good. As far as I can tell, she's never answered an outright question I've asked, whether in prayer or in looking at the moon. She's the hints at the back of your mind when you're in study or the solutions that come to mind when you're sleeping and wake with inspiration. I was taught that she's always listening when we wonder. That she hasn't answered leads me to believe that she won't."

[10:25 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I’m sorry for asking, l'auorphiem.” Ryleigh pulls Rukiya close, pressing a gentle kiss to her temple. “I know you probably won’t believe me, but you didn’t do anything wrong in leaving. You did what felt right, and that’s not abandoning Vydea.”

[10:30 PM] DM: The corner of her mouth turns up. "My father used to tell me that there's nothing wrong with asking an honest question."

[10:38 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “He sounds like a smart man, but if you tell anyone I said that - I’ll deny it.” Ryleigh smiles. “Have you been missing them more lately?”

[10:46 PM] DM: "It comes and goes. It's a little easier here than in Shasem. It's strange... even though I know I was looking at the same moon there, it didn't feel the same." She huffs a tiny chuckle.  "I feel closer to my family when I look at it here... and maybe that's because of her."

[9:27 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh shifts so she's kneeling between Rukiya's legs. She takes both her hands and says, "I'm sure it is, maybe its her way of comforting you. When I was gone... the two nights I had nightmares near Aston, I went to the Asten temple seeking comfort." She frowns slightly, her eyes bouncing away for a few moments, before looking back at Rukiya's. "I found a small, secluded balcony and talked to Asten. It didn't make me feel better, it made me more angry, but then I looked at the moon and thought of you. I wondered if maybe you were looking at it too, and the anger faded."

[9:37 AM] DM: She smiles softly and lifts Ry's hands to  press kisses to them.

[9:51 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Does it bother you?"

[9:53 AM] DM: She tilts her head a little, confused. "What?'

[10:24 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: “That I believe I’d pick you over Asten, and my oath to you over my oath to him. I didn’t think to ask if that’s something that’d burden you.”

[10:36 AM] DM: "I just want you to be happy and healthy, however that happens. If you can find a way to serve Asten in a way that doesn't cause you to hurt, so be it. If you'd be happier without him, I'm happy to help you find a new purpose."

[10:48 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: “A new purpose that isn’t him... or you?” Ryleigh asks with a questioning eyebrow.

[10:55 AM] DM: Her brows furrow a bit. "You swore to protect me and my secret... and you said you love me and choose me... is there something I'm missing here?"

[11:10 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: “It just sounded like... never mind.” Ryleigh reaches up to cup Rukiya’s cheek. “I’m worried over nothing.”

[11:12 AM] DM: She puts her hand over Ry's and turns her head to kiss her palm. "Sounded like what? Talk to me, Ry."

[1:14 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I don’t know,” Ryleigh says, her mouth pulling into a thin line. “Maybe it’s not you. Maybe it’s me.” She runs her thumb over Rukiya’s cheek. “Maybe I’m worried about how dependent on you I might be if I walk away from Asten. And that makes me nervous that you’ll walk away from me because of it.”

[1:22 PM] DM: "Change happens, Ry. When it happens, everything is affected... we just have to adjust and find a new normal that works for both of us. Do what you feel is right. Do what's best for you. Don't let a fear of change hold you back."

[2:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Until recently, change only brought me more suffering.” Ryleigh sighs. “What would I even do? This is all I’ve ever wanted... the ability to protect the people I love and to punish the people who stand against me.”

[2:22 PM] DM: "Your options are unlimited, Ry. You just have to think about what you want, what you need, what would make you happiest, and what would make you feel fulfilled. You can change your mind. You can learn new skills. You can choose a new god. You can stay where you are. You can retire from it all and be a farmer if you want to. As long as it will make you happy, I will support you."

[2:28 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Retire,” Ryleigh chuckles it out.

[2:28 PM] DM: She laughs. "It's a long shot, but an option."

[2:36 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “It’s really not. I don’t think I could be happy knowing there’s still people in Ascus, in Vyon,  who need help and have no one to turn to. People who are like me, but don’t look like me.” Ryleigh groans in frustration. “I really am weak if something like doubt has turned me into this babbling mess.”

[2:45 PM] DM: She shakes her head. "You are not weak, Ry. You just have bigger goals than most people do, and that means you are going to fail more often. You're facing a big decision, a big potential change. That would make anyone nervous."

[3:03 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Were you nervous? When you left. Was it difficult for you to find new purpose when you left? Or did you just... know you wanted to be a spy?”

[3:08 PM] DM: She chuckles a little. "Of course I was nervous. I still worry I made the wrong choice. I thought for a long time about what I wanted to do once I was gone. I thought I could just... have a simple life, but I wasn't ready for that. A place where people were used to having secrets, a place where I could use the talents and skills I had, a place where I could help people... I didn't become a spy because I wanted to be a spy. I did it because it matched what I wanted and needed and made me feel like I was doing something important."

[3:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I became a paladin because Olivia said I’d make a good one,” Ryleigh admits. “And it fits... doesn’t it? But I can’t be a paladin without serving a god... and what god would let a doubter like me become theirs?”

[4:06 PM] DM: She chuckles, "Well, off the top of my head, doubt and thought and wonder are kind of Vydea's thing, but I'm sure there are a few out there who would align with your beliefs... Witen, Vydea, Xilyra, even Takara might help."

[4:30 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Even considering following Vydea feels like a betrayal,” Ryleigh says, humor in her tone. “I’m sure it sounds silly... that I believe in what Asten stands for - truth, freedom, light, song - but that I’m losing faith in Him. I think that’s why this is so difficult for me to figure out... to talk about, because it still feels right to me.”

[4:40 PM] DM: "It's not silly, and it's very personal. Maybe you should talk to another Asten about it. Does Lydia believe in him the way you do?"

[4:46 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “Yes. I believe so.”

[4:56 PM] DM: "Then maybe she can help you."

[5:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I was going to ask her for guidance eventually. I was just hoping I’d only have to admit this to you... or Seirixori. It’s a little embarrassing.” Ryleigh leans up and kisses Rukiya. “I’m thankful for you, you know.”

[5:16 PM] DM: She smiles. "I hope you know the feeling is mutual." She runs her finger over the sun on her bracelet. "Just like yours doesn't mean Vydea, this isn't Asten. It's you. You're the sun. The light of my life, the warmth in my heart."

[5:43 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: There’s a soft smile on Ryleigh’s face as she says, “It’s moments like this that I think I’m living someone else’s life.” She slowly pushes up and into Rukiya’s space, forcing her to move more onto the bed before placing a lingering kiss to her lips. “If you keep saying sweet things like that to me, we won’t get anything done today.”

[5:44 PM] DM: "Did you have other plans?"

[5:57 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: “I just need to talk to Lydia before I leave for Ardabeh, but that doesn’t have to happen today.” Ryleigh kisses Rukiya again, then says, “I just wasn’t sure if you needed to do Whispers things, or if you wanted to do something in particular today.”

[5:59 PM] DM: "Just soaking up the sun," she says with a laugh before pulling Ryleigh even closer.

## DF after Ry's

6:33 PM] DM: Gunnloda and Seir leave Ry's apartment to arrange all the transportation and get the people gathered up to head to Bellbury.

[9:16 PM] Seirixori: Seir swings Gunnloda's hand as they walk back to the guildhall to gather everyone so they can be on their way. "Is everything okay?"

[9:17 PM] DM: She shrugs a bit. "As 'ok' as they can be, I s'pose."

[9:21 PM] Seirixori: "Hmm," Seir nods. "Care to elaborate?"

[9:29 PM] DM: "It's nothin' new, really. Just tryin' t'get on, even though everythin's so uncertain."

[9:38 PM] Seirixori: She nods again and continues to lead hem. As the guildhall gets into view Seir stops and gently pulls Gunnloda so they're facing each other as she kneels. "I care about what you're feeling, even if it doesn't seem like anything." She bites her lip and her brow furrows. The look she always gets when trying to find her words. "I-- I don't know when to-- I want to--" she finally just sighs, "I'm here."

[9:42 PM] DM: Gunnloda reaches up and runs her thumb over Seir's lip, like a reminder not to chew on it. "I know y'are, sor'odko... Sometimes it feels like you're the only thing keepin' me anchored."

[9:57 PM] Seirixori: Seir smiles and looks down, feeling a little bashful. "I-- I just worry sometimes that I'll miss something."

[9:59 PM] DM: "Like what? I'm startin' t'think your eyes don't miss much of anythin'."

[10:05 PM] Seirixori: She smiles and shrugs, "I don't know, anything?"

[10:08 PM] DM: Gunnloda raises an eyebrow. "Must've been somethin' to be worried 'bout it."

[10:15 PM] Seirixori: She's quiet, clearly working out her words, "I... don't miss much of anything because bad things happen when I do. I don't want it to happen again."

[10:17 PM] DM: She frowns a bit. "It's not your fault that things happen, just 'cause y'didn't see them."

[10:19 PM] Seirixori: "No, but I can try to stop them."

[10:21 PM] DM: "Are you ok?"

[10:22 PM] Seirixori: She laughs, "I might be starting to get a little paranoid."

[10:23 PM] DM: "Hmm," she hums. "Care t'elaborate?" she asks with a chuckle.

[10:27 PM] Seirixori: She shakes her head with a smile and presses a kiss to Gunnloda's forehead, "What I said earlier, the timing of this Moonborn and knowing that Vydea is the only other one who knows of something. And Ryleigh's...stuff." She shrugs, "Well, that one was probably good to not know beforehand."

[10:31 PM] DM: "Y'know I'm not much for hurtin' people if there's another way, but I don't think it'd bother me much if I blinked and accidentally flayed him alive." She pauses for a moment, then cringes. "Maybe."

[10:39 PM] Seirixori: Seir snickers and then cups Gunnloda's cheek and kisses her briefly, "I love you. I guess I wanted to... remind you, I guess, that you can talk to me." She stands, threading her fingers through Gunnloda's again, "However, I imagine the bringing back of our friend is a discussion left better for not in the middle of the street or while we're with a group of twenty or so 'strangers'?"

[10:40 PM] DM: She chuckles and leans into Seir's side a bit before they start walking again. "That's probably a good idea."

[4:16 PM] DM: So you get everyone moving towards Bellbury. It's getting late in the day by the time the carts pull in, but Eloise is waiting in the town square as goat!Seir trots up with a light red tiefling child on her back.  She looks much as you remember, long, silvery-blonde hair in a twist, a nice blue and silver dress, mangled fingernails from being chewed excessively. She spots Gunnloda climbing down from a cart and gives her a smile.

[4:42 PM] Seirixori: Seir shifts, holding Arkrus in her arms. "Hello, Baroness." She says with a big smile, "Th-thank you for this."

[4:50 PM] DM: She smiles. "I should be thanking you. You're still trying to help Bellbury after everything."

[5:39 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks behind her at everyone and then back to Eloise, "It wasn't Bellbury's fault. Nothing ever was."

[5:49 PM] DM: She gestures to the side where a handful of people are standing with papers. They step forward towards the newcomers.

"If you'll excuse me for just a moment..."

She steps away from Seir and raises her voice. "Welcome, everyone, to your new homes. I have some people here who will ask you each a few questions to help me get you situated in a home that will best fit your needs. We're mostly looking for farmers and orchard workers, but if you have any special skills, please let them know that as well."

[5:50 PM] DM: Everyone starts getting out of the carts, talking to the baroness's people, getting situated, and Eloise turns back to Seir. Gunnloda's made her way over as well.

"With such short messages, it was difficult to plan too much ahead of time."

[6:26 PM] Seirixori: Seir shifts Arkrus in her arms as she takes Gunnloda's hand. "Anything is better than where they were, Baroness."

[6:38 PM] Seirixori: "Thank you for giving them this chance."

[6:39 PM] DM: Eloise: "We still have more homes without people than with, and honestly, letting people move in is easier than cleaning them out."

On your way in, you'd have noticed that some of the farms have been left to themselves, given up on, but that there were a couple still being tended to.

[6:56 PM] Seirixori: "It'll be nice to see it filled with people." Seir sets Arkrus down, summoning a few goats for him to go play with around the fountain. She turns back to Eloise, her hesitation visible, "How-how is Misha doing?"

[7:04 PM] DM: Eloise: "Better. Fewer wakeful nights, at least. She and her mother are out on one of their field trips."

[7:10 PM] Seirixori: "That's good. I'm glad," she sighs, relieved. Seir tilts her head, now truly focused on Eloise. "And you?"

[7:17 PM] DM: She smiles a little, but it seems sad and her eyes look tired. "Better than most of those who lived here before the blast. Honestly, we're hanging on by our fingertips, though if this works, I may send word to Castin to try importing more volunteers. It's a solid idea, I just hope implementation is as easy as it can be."

[7:26 PM] Seirixori: She nods. "I'd be happy to help when the time comes. If I can." Seir glances around and quietly adds, "... that also still extends to the moon thing if I'm available and you need extra hands."

[7:47 PM] DM: "I appreciate the offer. We've been able to make-do so far, and if my suspicions are correct, more often than not, that's what their field trips include- making sure there are no surprises waiting when time comes."

[8:29 PM] Seirixori: "That's great!" She doesn't try to temper her excitement anymore, "Would you like any help with all of this?" Seir motions to the group.

[8:35 PM] DM: She glances back at the organized chaos behind Seir. "Well, would you like to see this one and his family to their new home?"

She asks Gunnloda, "The ones you told me about?" When Gunnloda nods, Eloise gestures to someone who walks over and hands her a piece of paper. She glances over it and nods in confirmation. "They'll be on the street just north of where Mr. Ningel lived. I'm sure you remember how to get there?"

[8:37 PM] Seirixori: Seir makes a face at his name, "I do."

[8:41 PM] DM: "How long do you plan on staying?"

[8:45 PM] Seirixori: "At least until tomorrow. I... We don't have anything too important just yet if you need more help."

[9:00 PM] DM: "We'll manage. Mostly it's just making sure everyone has a bed and food for the night, then we'll start working on... well, work. They're just in time for what harvest we can manage, so everyone's going to be chipping in on the farms and in the orchard at least for the first week or two."

[9:01 PM] DM: "Come by to let me know before you leave?"

[9:10 PM] Seirixori: "Of course."

[9:25 PM] DM: She nods to excuse herself to head towards one of the people who looks like he's having trouble.

[9:28 PM] Seirixori: Seir let's out a large sigh of relief, "That wasn't bad."

[9:53 PM] DM: Gunnloda chuckles. "Did y'expect it t'be?"

[9:58 PM] Seirixori: "Kind of the way of things lately," She laughs a little.

[7:45 AM] DM: She presses a kiss to the back of Seir's hand. "Shall we?"

[2:47 PM] Seirixori: Seir answers with a grin and leads them to Bliss and Valris, "Ready? We can show you to where you're staying."

[2:51 PM] DM: Valris grins and hands Morthus back to Bliss before hefting a large sack over his shoulder.  "Let's go!"

[2:59 PM] DM: Seir leads them to the street north of Poni's. At the house they'd been assigned, both Valris and Bliss stop short. It's a small house and the design indicates it was probably built for humans.

[3:00 PM] DM: Arkrus looks up at it with wide eyes. "Is that... ours?"

[3:02 PM] Seirixori: "It is." She places her hand on Valris' shoulder, "Welcome home."

[3:07 PM] DM: Arkrus runs up to the door and opens it wide before disappearing inside. Valris smiles at Seir for a second before chasing his son.

Bliss: "Feels like a dream. Just... waiting for someone to say that it's all a cruel joke and arrest us for trespassing."

[3:16 PM] Seirixori: "Elois-- the Baroness is... kinder than most people I've met outside my own. She gave me a chance when she had every reason not to. It's real."

[3:24 PM] DM: Arkrus appears at the door again, slightly out of breath. "Mama! You could fit like... seven families in here."

Bliss chuckles and smiles at Seir. "Thank you." She tickles Morthus's cheek with a finger and says, "I suppose we should go see, hmm, *sraokira*?" Then she heads inside too with a gesture to invite Seir and Gunnloda inside as well.

[3:30 PM] Seirixori: Seir squeezes Gunnloda's hand and she hesitates very briefly before following Bliss inside.

[8:31 PM] DM: The house has three rooms- an open room with a table and chairs and cooking area with two bedrooms to the side. It looks like it hasn't been touched since whoever lived here was forcibly relocated, but there's a pile of foodstuffs in the kitchen- grains, potatoes, things that they can live on for a bit. Everything's worn and used, but it's a huge step up from the single room they'd shared before with nothing but a pot and a nest of blankets.

Valris is wrestling Arkrus from bouncing on the bed in one of the rooms and Bliss looks close to tears.

Gunnloda squeezes Seir's hand. "Y'did good, *ko'dadir*."

[8:57 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks near to tears herself and she struggles when she says, "Y-yeah."

[8:59 PM] DM: "Y'ok?"

[9:09 PM] Seirixori: She nods, wiping at her eyes, "It- it kind of feels like- like what happened when we met  Ra-Ravaphine's mom, but..." She shakes her head, "but that's so small compared to-to how..." Seir motions to herself, not really sure how to explain. "I'm- I'm happy."

[9:14 PM] DM: Gunnloda kisses Seir's hand, then mutters a few words, waves her hand, and 45 pounds of breads appear on every horizontal surface in the room. "We can pass these out for t'day... or I can do that and you can play," she chuckles.

[9:22 PM] Seirixori: Her eyes light up as she looks towards Arkrus and Valris, but she shakes her head, "I'll help, we can play later."

Later

7:18 PM] Seirixori: Seir leans against a tree after her fey animal friends put together their little camp for the night. "I know we just got done with a lot of camping, but at least this isn't filled with scary shadow things."

[7:22 PM] DM: Gunnloda chuckles and picks up one of the ration packs they set out to nibble on. She sits near the fire and makes a grabby-hand gesture to call Seir over. "Feels a lot friendlier here, anyway."

[7:40 PM] Seirixori: Seir grins and makes her way over, cuddling up behind Gunnloda. "Wish we could do this all the time."

[7:43 PM] DM: "Campin' and cuddlin' is do-able... Changin' the lives of a couple dozen people and a town is prob'ly less sustainable."

[8:04 PM] Seirixori: "Maybe on a smaller scale then," she releases a contented sigh. "I never really had a purpose before. Not one that didn't involve finding my mother. You asked me once what I did and it never occurred to me before that that I could do things. I always wanted to help people, seeing other people happy... I was never given that chance, they were always afraid of me and now..." She shrugs, "...now I get to."

[8:16 PM] DM: She holds a berry from her pack up for Seir with a soft smile. "Helpin' people's what I've always tried t'do. Even when... Even when it felt like I was lyin' t'people, it still seemed t'help in the end, and feedin' folks that were hungry always felt like it was right. Didn't need a god's ear t'help fill a belly."

[8:17 PM] DM: "I knew you'd be the sort o'person who'd want t'help others, even in the beginnin', and I am so proud of what you've done here."

[8:32 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes the berry with her mouth, pressing a kiss to Gunnloda's fingers as she does. She gets a little flustered at Gunnloda's praise.  Cheeks darker than normal she mumbles a barely coherent, "thank you."

[8:35 PM] DM: She chuckles again and scoots up to press a kiss to Seir's extra-warm cheek. "M'favorite shade."

[8:43 PM] Seirixori: Her face darkens just a little more and with a cheeky grin Seir says, "You're always welcome to wear it."

[8:51 PM] DM: She chuckles again, turning to fully kiss Seir before sitting against her again with a wink. "Dinner first."

[8:54 PM] Seirixori: "I suppose," she laughs and finally grabs her own rations. "May I ask about what happened with Yahya?"

[8:57 PM] DM: "'bout which part?"

[9:00 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs, "When you revived him. It looked like... a lot."

[9:07 PM] DM: She nods, the mood becoming far more somber. " 'm guessin' you're not askin' about wantin' t'sleep for a week afterwards."

[9:11 PM] Seirixori: "Not really."

[9:29 PM] DM: She thinks about it, a bit of a crinkle forming between her brows. "I don't really know... it was the first time I've ever tried t'bring someone back, and... it wasn't the right kind o'spell for it anyway. It'd been too long. I was..." she frowns a bit, closing her eyes to try to remember. "It was like lookin' for a speck of light in a field of stars. They were flyin' by too fast for me t'see... and then I- I don't know how, but I had him. I asked if he wanted t'come back, and he said yes... and..." she shrugs. "That was it."

[9:32 PM] Seirixori: Seir tilts her head taking it in, "That's... really neat."

[9:36 PM] Seirixori: "Did it-did it feel weird?"

[9:37 PM] DM: "Flyin' through stars?" she chuckles. "A bit, yeah."

[9:43 PM] Seirixori: She's quiet for a brief second, and she whispers, "It scared me. I- I was afraid I might have pushed too hard."

[9:51 PM] DM: Gunnloda sets her food down and turns around, getting to her knees so she's eye to eye with Seir. "Don't feel guilty, sor'okdo. We're both just... tryin' t'figure things out. I know y'wouldn't try t'hurt me on purpose."

[10:01 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods. "I'll try." She smiles seconds later, "Told you you could do it."

[10:09 PM] DM: She chuckles and leans in to kiss Seir again, then sits back in her spot. "Barely, but yeah. Felt bad not bein' able t'help for a while, and would've felt worse if someone'd gotten hurt, but... he's alive. His sister has him back. They're out of Ascus. I'd say it was worth it."

[10:15 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods and starts lightly tracing random patterns on Gunnloda's arm, "It was."

[10:20 PM] DM: She leans her head back against Seir's shoulder. "Y'ok?"

[10:24 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes her time answering. "I think so." She laughs, "For now. I don't know if I've actually processed everything or if I've decided to push it aside. I'm... I feel like I'm waiting for whatever other news I'm going to get when we finally get to Limabey."

[10:28 PM] DM: "D'you know what you're gonna say? Or ask?"

[10:34 PM] Seirixori: "I think so. Part of me wants to not say anything at all. The other..." She shrugs.

[10:36 PM] DM: "Wish I could be there with you, but I'll be there for you after... no matter what comes of it."

[10:38 PM] Seirixori: "I wish you could too..." Seir laughs, "If Takara hadn't spoken to her I doubt she'd have even noticed I was gone longer than usual. I hope you guys will be okay waiting while I speak to her."

[10:40 PM] DM: "We'll be fine."

[10:43 PM] Seirixori: She chuckles, "You always are."

[10:51 PM] DM: "Usually," she smiles. "Are... do y'think you're gonna want t'stay for a while?"

[10:54 PM] Seirixori: She shakes her head, "No, not really. Mielikki's grove and the forest is pretty much all I know. Not much to do there."

[11:02 PM] DM: "Well, just in case... y'know I'll go with ya, wherever you want t'go, for as long as y'want."

[11:04 PM] Seirixori: "Then I guess you're stuck with me for a very long time, *tor beag.*"

[11:07 PM] DM: "Happily so, *v'do.*"

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