16 Felmont

15 Felmont - 16 Felmont -- 17 Felmont

Felmont 3Y21 -- Back to Logs

## Ascus

"""[9:13 AM] DM: Morning comes in Ascus. Gylfi and Seir had returned late in the night and now you're getting ready to track down the Titan.

[10:02 AM] Seirixori: Seir yawns """"Are we ready to go? I think I can just carry both of you so there'd be no spell wasting.""""

[10:58 AM] Brimeia: """"I'm always ready."""" Bri grins

[10:59 AM] Gylfi: “Really? What are you turning into this time?” Gylfi asks with a grin.

[11:04 AM] Seirixori: Seir rolls her eyes, mirroring the grin, """"Well, if you want options... Flying dinosaur, giant eagle..."""" she pauses to think, """"actually I think that's it, the others are slower.""""

[11:09 AM] Brimeia: """"Dino, dino!""""

[11:13 AM] Gylfi: """"That's fine with me."""" Gylfi looks pensive. """"I've never seen a flying dinosaur.""""

[11:15 AM] Seirixori: Seir grins and is ready to shift but then she pauses, """"Uh, actually we should not be in the town while I do this. It's kind of... big."""" She leads them out of town and finds a space that won't be too much issue and shifts into a quetzalcoatlus.

[11:16 AM] DM: There is a ginormous monster of a lizard-bird in front of you.

[11:26 AM] Brimeia: """"So cool.""""

[11:27 AM] Gylfi: Gylfi pulls out their sketchbook and makes a quick sketch of the dino bird. Then they climb aboard!

[11:30 AM] Seirixori: Seir makes dino bird noise and flies up and takes off without Brimeia but she circles to get speed and grabs Brimeia and flies them over the forest to search for their path.

[11:31 AM] DM: It's not hard to see. There's a path of destruction that seems to weave across the landscape, trees felled, gaps of overturned stone. Everyone give me a perception check.

[11:31 AM] Seirixori: ((26))

[11:31 AM] Brimeia: Brimeia looks worried for a moment before whooping with excitement as she gets picked up

[11:32 AM] Gylfi: ((20))

[11:33 AM] Brimeia: ((14))

[11:34 AM] DM: Seir and Gylfi both spot some rocks moving around down below.

[11:35 AM] Gylfi: """"Seirixori, could you fly down that way?"""" They shout over the wind. """"I see movement.""""

[11:35 AM] Seirixori: Seir flies lower to check out what's below.

[11:36 AM] DM: You see earth elementals walking around, roughly following the carnage.

[11:37 AM] Gylfi: """"It's just earth elementals. We can keep going!""""

[11:37 AM] Seirixori: Seir nods, though she lingers for a moment before continuing on.

[11:37 AM] Brimeia: """"Onward!"""" Bri shouts in a goofy voice.

[11:38 AM] DM: It's not hard to follow the path of destruction and as you fly, sometimes you fly over crushed farmhouses, wooded shacks, and so on. The path will meander then suddenly take a sharp turn to where there's wreckage before meandering again.

[11:40 AM] DM: You fly five hours, set down just long enough to shift again, then fly another five hours. You don't spot the titan in this time, but you're still following the path.

[11:41 AM] Brimeia: """"Wonder how far that big lug got.""""

[11:43 AM] Seirixori: Seir sets them down and shifts back once she knows Gylfi is off her back. She stretches and shakes out her arms, """"Well, we can rest here or take a short break and I can fly us another few hours.""""

[11:44 AM] DM: It's a couple hours to sundown and it might be harder to follow the path if it's dark.

[11:44 AM] Gylfi: """"I think we should rest. Flying the dark might end up setting us back."""" Gylfi starts to cast their hut so the group has a safe place to sleep.

[11:48 AM] Seirixori: """"I can turn us into clouds tomorrow. I imagine we'll catch up or at least get so much closer.""""

[11:49 AM] DM: Are you setting up in the forest or along the path?

[11:52 AM] Seirixori: I imagine on the path or just off the path?

[11:58 AM] DM: Ok, you're resting. Anything you want to do or just rest?

[11:59 AM] DM: Ok, night passes and morning comes."""

## Dawnguard Warroom

"10:58 PM] DM: -----

16 Felmont

Riverrun, Dawnguard Warroom

The next morning finds the five of you back in the protected warroom to discuss your findings and your options.

[12:47 PM] Seirixori: Rae sits in the same spot she was in before. ""So, how was everyone's day?""

[4:39 PM] Brimeia: Hava slumps into a chair. ""Stressful,"" they sigh. ""And yourself?""

[4:46 PM] Seirixori: Rae shrugs, ""Looked around, followed someone, not really sure if it was someone to even look into or just being paranoid.""

[6:21 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh’s sitting next to Rukiya, their hands joined together. She looks a touch tired as she says, “Mine was... eventful.”

[6:44 PM] Seirixori: ""Does that mean you get to share first or shall we?""

[6:54 PM] DM: Malphon folds his hands on the table and turns to Hava. ""As I tried to say yesterday, I believe you and I should combine efforts to focus on the origin of this poison.""

[6:59 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh shrugs, looking weary. “Why don’t you all share and then I’ll tell you all what I found out.”

[7:00 PM] Brimeia: ""I agree. I just wished you hadn't ambushed me at the temple.""

[7:24 PM] Brimeia: ""I compared the poison to other known poisons and found that there hasn't been any like it. Meaning that whoever created this cutting edge substance must have access to advanced poison knowledge, is likely wealthy, and has or has access to magical expertise, judging by its ability to prevent resurrection and healing as in the case of Malphon's injury."" They gesture toward the spy. ""I could use your assistance in investigating some groups that may be responsible."" Hava tugs a scribbled list out of their bag and hand it to Malphon while relaying the information to the others as well. ""I also tried looking into ways to counteract it in case we encounter it again. Do any of you know the name Tzobun?""

[7:25 PM] DM: Rukiya raises an eyebrow.

[7:37 PM] Seirixori: ((25 history- used sup die))

[7:42 PM] Seirixori: Rae nods, ""The necromancer, correct?""

[7:49 PM] DM: Rukiya nods. ""I've heard of him.""

[7:50 PM] Brimeia: ""Oh! That would make sense. The name came up in relation to necromancy spells. Do you know anything further?""

[8:01 PM] Seirixori: ""He was around before Vyon and the spellguard were created in response to him. That's about all I know.""

[8:05 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""What does he have to do with your research?""

[8:37 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh listens.

[9:14 PM] Brimeia: ""I was looking into what might prevent healing. There are some necromancy that can have that effect. His name came up in connection with them. Might he have some motive against Vyon or Vydea?""

[9:38 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""He must have been dead a thousand years by now. I don't know how he could be related to this personally... but maybe he inspired them.""

[9:48 PM] Brimeia: ""Hmm. Perhaps something he left behind then, that some nefarious forces have found and used? Or perhaps he used necromancy to live...unlive on?""

[9:49 PM] DM: Rukiya hums and adds a card that says Tzobun to the board.

[10:00 PM] Seirixori: Rae waits for the pause before she adds her own information, ""I have two points of interest, I believe. The first, I spoke to two of the three ladies in waiting that were with the Queen when she was killed. One has been with her since she was little, the other is a little more recent, and the one I have not gotten a chance to speak to was here before I was. Which... only means it's been a plan for a while now.""

[10:01 PM] DM: Rukiya:  ""You think one of them is involved?""

[10:03 PM] Seirixori: ""I honestly don't know how else she could have been killed otherwise. As far as I'm aware, there wasn't anyone else in the room.""

[10:05 PM] DM: She starts to write on another card, then pauses. ""Their names?""

[10:06 PM] Seirixori: ""Osi, Elyse, and Astra.""

[10:07 PM] DM: She writes them down and adds them to the board.

[10:08 PM] Seirixori: With a sigh she adds, ""The other thing; I found a guard, Yellowcrest, who had a stab wound that hadn't been looked at yet. Or so he told me. He was also the only guard who had no sword. He had made it sound like he stayed at the castle... I later followed him to one of the guildhalls. And then... well I came here.""

[10:16 PM] DM: Malphon:  ""Likely was poisoned, then. Mine has still not fully healed, either.""

[10:18 PM] DM: Rukiya:  ""Maybe he moonlights for a guild, or was looking for a healer outside of the castle. What guild was it?""

[10:26 PM] Seirixori: ""The Hallowthorns.""

[10:31 PM] DM: She writes both Yellowcrest and Hallowthorns on the board and connects them.

[10:44 PM] Brimeia: ""Oh, Rukiya suggested getting requesting reports from the other attacks to see if the same poison was involved. I'd also like to get a hold of any samples of the poison that remain if possible. She mentioned you might be able to help, Aurae?""

[10:53 PM] Seirixori: Rae hums, ""It's possible,"" she chuckles a little looking at Ryleigh briefly as she pulls out a pouch and sets it in the table. ""I was given some gold to help my investigation. I think I implied using it to hire help, but... if there are no objections maybe it might be put to better use of getting this specific type of information. Or whatever else it might be needed for.""

[11:58 PM] Gylfi: “Typically, I’d be the first to offer to go poking around the seedy underbelly of Riverrun, but unfortunately, I’ve blown my cover and it’d be... unwise of me to go now.” Ryleigh lets out a long sigh of frustration. “It wasn’t for nothing though. I found out who orchestrated the attacks...” she stands, moving to Rukiya’s side and handing her another card. “And we think we know the motive of the assassins, too.”"

"[12:59 AM] Seirixori: ""Really?"" Rae asks, sounding close to excited.

[1:01 AM] Brimeia: Hava looks over with a curious and hopeful expression, though more tempered than Rae's. ""Well with a dramatic introduction like that, do tell. Don't leave us dangling.""

[9:58 AM] DM: Rukiya takes the card, ""Prince Aiden"" written on it, and puts it on the board at the top.

[9:59 AM] DM: You'd all know that's Tilman's son, the prince of Ascus. Most of you would know he's a teenager, but probably not much more than that.

[10:42 AM] Seirixori: Rae rolls her eyes and grumbles, ""Arrogant little shit.""

[11:02 AM] Gylfi: ""He's here, and he's claimed responsibility for the assassinations... it's a coup to reunify Ascus and Vyon by force.""

[11:11 AM] Brimeia: ""Oh. Oh no."" They stare down at their claws which they're nervously wringing for a moment. ""I-is there a way to stop it?""

[11:18 AM] Seirixori: Rae's fist tightens, ""He'll get force, alright.""

[11:19 AM] DM: Rukiya: ""We need to know who knows. How deep this goes.""

[11:25 AM] Seirixori: Rae looks to Ryleigh,""Did you see others with him? Could you identify them?""

[11:38 AM] Gylfi: ""Yes, there were others with him, and I could try to identify them...""

[11:41 AM] Seirixori: Rae starts going over things in her head before she speaks, ""Hmm, I could get you a uniform if you think you can blend in enough to walk around the castle and see if there are any familiar faces. If need be, I can have you shadow me. At least then you won't be stuck here while we try to figure out the others.""

[5:51 PM] DM: Rukiya's brows pull together in worry.

[5:54 PM] DM: Rukiya:  ""Rooting out individuals is possibly a secondary concern right now. If we know Ascus is involved, we need to find out if the Council knows... and if they do, whether they are readying for defense or waiting to hand the country over.""

[5:56 PM] Seirixori: ""Can we not do both?""

[6:00 PM] DM: Malphon: ""All three, I'd say. We should also try to get our hands on that poison. We may not need to use the trail to find the leader anymore, but it will let us try to develop an antidote or reverse the effects. And it might tell us how deeply infected this country's systems are.""

[6:04 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh shifts uncomfortably, and takes Rukiya’s hand.

[6:05 PM] Seirixori: Rae nods in agreement, ""Yes, I have a feeling we might not get what we want with the council.""

[6:10 PM] DM: Rukiya leans back against the board, her free hand pressing against her temple.

[6:13 PM] Brimeia: Hava shifts anxiously. ""I can continue examining and researching the poison.""

[6:14 PM] DM: Malphon: ""Do you have a sample to work from?""

[6:17 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh leans over and whispers something to Rukiya, then press a kiss to the side of her head.

[6:18 PM] Brimeia: ""I do not unfortunately. I gave the weapon used on the king to the Nightmaster.""

[6:18 PM] Seirixori: Rae sits up straighter, ""That does remind me, one of the council members, Estner, refused protection from us. And it shouldn't be well known that there's inside issues...""

[6:28 PM] DM: Rukiya sighs and squeezes Ry's hand. ""We need to prioritize. Vyon's safety comes first. We have to find out if Estner is compromised. If Ascus has an army at the gates."" She releases Ry and turns to the board. ""Hava, I need you to go to the temple and talk to the Nightmaster or the arcanists upstairs. Get them to contact the other temples- Kinetas and Castin especially- and find out about poison use. You're researching it, so they shouldn't be too suspicious.""

[6:30 PM] DM: ""Ry, we need to find out from Castin if there's any movement on the other side of the river... or ship movement from elsewhere. Maybe your uncle can help.""

[6:32 PM] DM: ""Do either of you think you could investigate Estner's involvement?"" she asks Rae and Malphon.

[9:36 PM] Seirixori: Rae opens her mouth to reply but pauses and her brow furrows as a thought occurs. ""Actually, yes. If I hadn't talked my superior into letting me investigate the situation I was going to be asked to guard another council member."" Her tone and expression show just how much she hates the thought.

[9:41 PM] DM: ""Malphon... How's your injury?""

[9:42 PM] DM: Malphon: ""Still hurts. Still bleeding.""

[9:45 PM] DM: ""I'd like you to see our medic, Aid.""

""I have healing magic. It did nothing.""

""I'd still-""

Malphon interrupts. ""I have been sidelined repeatedly by the Spymaster. I won't stand for it here, too.""

[9:50 PM] Seirixori: ""Will you at least let Hava, with the help of... Aid?"" She looks at Rukiya just to clarify the name, ""checkout your wound to see if they can gather anything else from it?""

[9:52 PM] DM: ""What will they learn that I have not already?""

[9:53 PM] Seirixori: ""Exactly.""

[9:54 PM] Brimeia: ""To be fair I haven't had a chance to examine a living victim of the poison yet. Might be able to get some clues on how to overcome its effects.""

[10:02 PM] Seirixori: Rae motions to Hava as if to prove her point.

[10:06 PM] DM: Malphon crosses his arms. ""And then?""

[10:11 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""Come see me after. It's... private.""

[10:12 PM] DM: Malphon grumbles, but says nothing else.

[10:38 PM] Seirixori: ""I... am to assume that none of this should be shared with my superior, correct?""

[10:55 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""If you can avoid it, that would be preferable. I'm not sure how you can be sure he can be trusted otherwise.""

[10:56 PM] Seirixori: Rae chuckles, ""Well, maybe he won't ask."""

[9:08 AM] DM: Unless there's anything else to be said, we can probably break out to individual rooms.

## Hava

[10:59 AM] Brimeia: When Hava heads back, she'll go looking for the Nightmaster.

"[9:07 PM] DM: When you tell people you're looking for him, you're informed that he's taken to isolation out of an abundance of caution- he doesn't know who can be trusted so has opted to trust no one.

[9:52 PM] Brimeia: Hava feels a flicker of worry and briefly considers possible ways of contacting the Nightmaster securely and surreptitiously before ultimately deciding to focus on the task at hand first. They look for the arcanists to request information about the other attacks."

6:47 PM] DM: The temple is set up such that the main floors of the library are tended to by all sorts of acolytes- divine, arcane, non-magical, and so on. However, there are specialists as well. Arcanists, mostly wizards, work in the upper reaches of the temple while the clerics tend to work below. You can find your way to the arcanists who tend to be in charge of communication, travel, and development.

3:40 PM] Brimeia: Hava heads up and approaches one of the arcanists. They clear their throat. "Excuse me..."

"[9:47 AM] DM: A middle aged human woman in blue and silver mages robes is searching through a rather large tome when you approach. ""Yes?""

[10:09 AM] Brimeia: ""Do we still have contact with the other Moonstream residences? I'd like to request some information for my research.""

[10:10 AM] DM: ""What kind of information?""

[10:27 AM] Brimeia: ""Any information about the attacks could be useful, but especially about whether poison was used."" They try to sound like their usual inquisitive self, but they're a little nervous.

[10:30 AM] DM: The woman places a ribbon bookmark in her page and turns, opening a drawer, filing through it for a moment, then pulling out a card and a pencil before handing them to Hava. ""Fill this out and take it to the arcanist on duty two doors down the hall."" She points towards the hall and to the right.

[10:35 AM] DM: The card has a few instructions and places to write. There are boxes to check for ""URGENT"" ""ROYAL REQUEST"" and ""NIGHTMASTER"" as well as ""ONE WAY"" or ""RESPONSE REQUESTED"". One side asks for a very clear request of no more than 20 words to be Sent exactly as written with a disclaimer that the message will be Sent exactly as written and lack of understanding or answers on the other end are not the fault of the Sender. The other side has a list of potential recipients as well as blanks to fill in your own (Sender's knowledge limited). The boxes there include places of import like the temple, the castle, Ebedine College and all cities and towns large enough to have a mage or Sending Stone stationed there."

[8:21 PM] Hava: Hava takes the form and settles at table nearby to fill out the form. They check "URGENT" and "RESPONSE REQUESTED" and fill in the other appropriate info before pausing at the blank message section. They tap their snout thoughtfully for a moment, carefully considering how best to make their request concisely. "Request all available details on attacks of Moonstreams. Especially weapons and substances used or found nearby."

[8:21 PM] Hava: ((um, who would Hava be sending to on the other end?))

[8:23 PM] DM: Depends on what you're looking for, but from the message, I'd guess Castin, Kinetas, Muyar Harbor, Bellbury, and Landharbor to start.

[8:32 PM] Hava: ((all the places where the moonstream attacks happened i guess? that's what i was supposed to ask about, right? lol))

[8:33 PM] DM: That's the list of cities with Moonstreams.

[8:35 PM] Hava: Hava flips over the form and addresses the messages to each of the locations where the Moonstreams are located: Castin, Kinetas, Muyar Harbor, Bellbury, and Landharbor. Then they take the form to arcanist down the hall the woman mentioned. "Excuse me. I'd like to send this message please."

[8:39 PM] DM: He takes the form and looks at it. "Are you looking for fast or thorough? Details will likely take time. We've got twenty words. Will a letter response suffice or do you need something specific?"

[8:41 PM] Hava: "Oh. Now that you mention it, it'd be good if I was able to have any possible poison samples sent here for examination..." They hum thoughtfully.

[8:42 PM] DM: "That could take up to a week, if that's all right." He marks a couple notes down.

[8:44 PM] Hava: "I suppose it can't be helped."

[8:46 PM] DM: He reads as he writes, "Details on Moonstream attack weapons and substances. Samples of poisons used to Riverrun." Looking back up, he says, "Anything else? Do you need any information immediately that will fit in a 20 word response?"

[8:50 PM] Hava: Hava thinks a moment. "Immediate letter response if poison suspected?" they ask, unfurling their clawed fingers as they count the words.

[8:51 PM] DM: "A yes or no is simple enough to get a same-day response. Possibly even immediate."

[8:52 PM] Hava: "Then that, please. A letter isn't necessary so long as I get the message."

[8:53 PM] DM: "Request: Details of Moonstream attack weapons, substances. Query: Poison suspected? Send samples to Riverrun. Attention:..." He looks up. "Your name?"

[8:55 PM] Hava: "Hava Zahra."

[8:56 PM] DM: "I'll have a message sent to you once we have the responses."

[8:58 PM] Hava: "Thank you." They bow slightly before exiting the room.

[9:04 PM] DM: Anything else you want to do besides wait for the responses?

[9:11 PM] Hava: ((uh if malphon were still a thing, they'd probably ask him to poke around just to see if he found different info lol))

[9:13 PM] DM: He still exists. He is, however, at the castle doing his own thing, so unless you have a way to discover where he is, that might be a thing that waits for the group meetup.

[9:14 PM] DM: That said, he did have "you" and Aid check his wound out before you came to the temple. It appears to still be oozing blood, though not at an alarming rate. Something about the wound is preventing or at least drastically slowing the healing process and healing and restoration magic does not seem to help.

[9:22 PM] Hava: ((oh yeah i forgot about that lol))

[9:27 PM] Hava: ((yeah i think that's all))

[9:31 PM] DM: Ok. Then at some point you get a mental message from the arcanist. "Castin, Kinetas, no poison. Landharbor, Muyar Harbor, poison. Bellbury, no response. Will inform upon arrival of details and samples."

[9:33 PM] Hava: Hava replies with a simple mental, "Thank you."

[9:33 PM] Hava: ((that's allowed right?))

[9:34 PM] DM: Yep.

## Rae

"4:19 PM] Seirixori: Rae heads back to the castle and to Promise's office, knocking on the door once she arrives.

[9:14 PM] DM: Promise: ""Yeah?""

[9:20 PM] Seirixori: Rae pokes her head in, ""So about that assignment to guard Barham..."" She walks in and closes the door. ""I think I might take my chances, for now, with that if Estner really doesn't want protection from the Moonguard."""

"9:06 PM] DM: ""What happened to investigating?""

[9:08 PM] Seirixori: ""Still happening,"" Rae shrugs, ""just getting different angles.""

[9:12 PM] DM: ""I'll send word for him to expect you, but don't be surprised if he doesn't trust you. It's in short supply these days.""

[9:27 PM] Seirixori: She nods, ""I understand."" Rae leaves to gather a few things she may have left in her room there before heading off to her new duty.

[9:36 PM] DM: The Barham family occupies what could be considered a small castle or a large manor, walled with a courtyard and several buildings, in the East Ward.

[9:47 PM] Seirixori: Rae sighs as she sees this, but she isn't sure what else she can do and if this is the closest she can get without being too suspicious.

[9:48 PM] Seirixori: With a final look around she'll head inside.

[10:36 PM] DM: The walls aren't difficult to get through. The lone guard appears to be more for manning the gate than any actual restriction to entry. When you get to the main house, though, you find two low ranking Moonguard in uniform standing in the parlor, seemingly on duty. A man in purple appears.  ""Can I help you?""

[10:44 PM] Seirixori: ""Hello, I am High Sentinel Aurae. I believe word was sent ahead about my arrival."""

"6:45 PM] DM: ""Mmm. Yes. Follow me."" He leads you through the halls to a large office where a man in black and purple sits behind a desk that looks entirely too large for him. A large painted portrait of an older man hangs on the wall behind him, also in purple. He doesn't even look up from his paperwork as you enter. ""What is it?""

[6:45 PM] DM: ""The Moonguard, sir.""

[6:50 PM] Seirixori: Rae bows slightly as she introduces herself.

[11:56 PM] DM: He looks up, a young man, younger than you expected, probably. ""You'll excuse me if I don't think too highly of your abilities given that you failed in your last assignment.""

"

12:38 AM] Seirixori: Rae's face doesn't change from it's neutral expression as she straightens, "I apologise that I am not quite up to your standards, however, it is an incident that I would not allow to happen a second time. If that at all helps assuage your doubts any."

"[10:08 PM] DM: ""Well, I have no need for your services but apparently your people have a need to prove themselves and guilt to assuage and purpose in their lives so here we are.""

[10:19 PM] Seirixori: ""Here we are,"" she reiterates, unmoving."

"[10:47 AM] Seirixori: Rae grins slightly, ""Would you like me to be a constant visible nuisance or one who only appears when you have meetings?""

[10:53 AM] DM: ""Asketel will give you a schedule. Leave me."" He turns back to his paperwork and the man who escorted you in bows and heads out the door, clearly expecting you to follow.

[11:03 AM] Seirixori: She releases a small sigh as she follows the one who escorted her in, a part of her wishing she had not volunteered for this."

"4:09 PM] DM: The man, apparently named Asketel, leads you to a room with a handful of beds. ""These are the quarters for those of you assigned to Lord Barham.""

The title of 'Lord' probably surprises you. You're not particularly up to speed on the ins and outs of Riverrun nobility, but he's young and typically ""Lord"" is reserved for the head of the house.

[4:10 PM] DM: ""You're not required to stay here."" He reaches into his jacket and pulls out a sheet of paper. ""Here is his schedule.""

[4:14 PM] Seirixori: ""Thank you,"" Rae nods and takes the paper, glancing over the schedule, ""Is there anything else I might need to know, that isn't on this paper?""

[4:15 PM] DM: ""Such as?""

[4:17 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs nonchalantly, ""He's young and you called him 'Lord'. I imagine it doesn't sit well with everyone. And with what's happened..."" she trails off, ""Well, it's always good to know little details.""

[6:00 PM] DM: ""My Lord's father, Durbal, was killed during the unpleasantness at the castle. There may have been other claims to the title, but none have seen fit to dispute it.""

[6:05 PM] Seirixori: There's a brief sound of the paper crinkling in her hand as she clenches her fist at the comment. ""I see. Thank you again. If you don't mind, I think I'll take a walk around to get myself familiar with the place.""

[6:09 PM] DM: He tilts his head slightly and leaves you alone.

[6:14 PM] Seirixori: Rae looks down at the schedule, taking in anything that might happen relatively soon, not entirely sure how long she'll be doing this for. As she looks it over she starts to head out of the current room she's in to do as she said, take a walk around the grounds. Not just to get familiar but to get in touch with the guards here and maybe get extremely lucky in being told or overhearing something about the real reason she's here.

[6:18 PM] DM: Give me a roll of a skill you'd like to utilize to do so.

[6:26 PM] Seirixori: ((20 investigation - also used tactical assessment to add a superiority die to the roll))

[6:26 PM] Seirixori: ((unless persuasion would make more sense then it would be 19 still get a sup die if persuasion, it's just a different maneuver lol))

[6:43 PM] DM: Your choice. You wander the complex. Most of the people seem to be staff, mostly wearing black or grey with a small amount of purple. There's also a couple Moonguard in their blue and silver. You chat with them, but they've basically just been told to monitor the grounds and stand ready to assist the house guard if there's trouble. They seem as uninterested in this post as you, though they at least pretend to hide it in your presence. As you walk around outside, you spot an elderly man, grey hair in perfect place, his shoulders back in practiced pose, standing on a balcony of one of the smaller buildings with a purple silk robe over his clothes. He's looking in the direction of the castle, and after a moment, his eyes scan the grounds, he sees you, turns, and heads back inside.

[6:51 PM] Seirixori: Rae makes a small noise of curiosity and the only reason she doesn't head to the building immediately is her years of training. She spends what she thinks is a good amount of time continuing what she was doing before heading to the smaller building.

[7:10 PM] DM: The front door is locked.

[7:39 PM] Seirixori: There is a moment where she thinks of sneaking inside but dismisses it just as quickly. Rae knocks and takes a step back from the door, looking like the soldier she is, patiently waiting.

[7:53 PM] DM: There's no answer.

[7:59 PM] Seirixori: Frowning, Rae knocks again.

[8:36 PM] DM: A man in grey with a purple tie unlocks and opens the door, but only a foot or two.  ""The master is not to be disturbed. Be on your way.""

[8:39 PM] Seirixori: ""My apologies, I only wished to introduce myself and to know those of this... estate. It is beneficial to the duty I have been assigned.""

[9:01 PM] DM: ""I am fairly certain your duties do not extend to this building.""

[9:10 PM] Seirixori: ""It is not the building itself that I care for, but of the people inside. If I am here to make sure no harm comes to anyone else it would be good to at least know the name the people residing close by.""

[9:10 PM] DM: Give me a persuasion check.

[9:11 PM] Seirixori: ((24))

[9:18 PM] DM: ""The master's name is Garyn. Now be on your way."" He closes the door and you hear the lock slide into place.

[9:21 PM] Seirixori: Rae stands there for a beat or two before she heads around the back, just to check out the building itself and then will walk around more, this time seeing if she can find anyone who knows about Garyn.

[9:23 PM] DM: Tell me how you're doing that and give me a roll.

[9:33 PM] Seirixori: Rae will find other staff or guards that might be more talkative than guards she already spoke to and try and ask for any history around the place seeing as she doesn't know Riverrun well. ((27 persuasion, using another maneuver for a die because I wanted overkill I guess.))

[9:49 PM] DM: There's plenty of staff and some that are more than willing to give the gossip. Some of it is conflicting, others you're fairly certain are outlandish enough to disregard, but what you learn is:

- Connell has only been Lord Barham since the assassinations when his father was killed.

- His father became Lord Barham by taking the title from his father, Garyn.

- Garyn is either contagiously sick, a necromancer, or absolutely insane, depending on who you ask.

- In any case, he is kept locked away for the safety of everyone.

- Connell was quick to second Lord Estner's motion to name himself as the regent until Vyon's future could be secured."

[12:26 PM] Seirixori: Rae will stick around long enough to do her 'job' and if there's ever a chance to do so she might try and poke around in Connell's office. Otherwise she'll go back to the Dawnguard to relay what she's learned.

[9:47 AM] DM: That'll probably be it for this day!

## Ryfika

"[9:35 PM] DM: When Ry and Rukiya get back to their room, Rukiya sits on the bed, rubbing at the bridge of her nose with her fingers.

[10:16 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh kneels down in front of her, resting her hands on Rukiya’s thighs. “I’m worried about you, l'auorphiem.”

[10:20 PM] DM: ""I know... I'm sorry.""

[10:22 PM] Gylfi: “Don’t be sorry. It’s okay to feel... I’m just worried you’re feeling too much. Is there... anything I can do?”

[10:28 PM] DM: ""I don't know. I feel like I'm barely holding myself together but I can't fall apart. All of my own emotions are so much, then there's Rae's guilt and Malphon's irritation and... I'm just having trouble regulating and maintaining my boundaries. And on top of that, there's the puzzle. There's so many questions and I hate every possible answer but it's like my brain won't stop going over every detail over and over like I missed something obvious and it won't rest until I figure it out and.... I'm exhausted.""

[10:31 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh looks up into Rukiya’s face, her expression understanding. “Why don’t you try to nap while I head to whispers?” Her hands slid down to Rukiya’s boots, waiting to see if she should unlace them.

[10:35 PM] DM: ""I don't think I can."" She sighs, then bends down to cup Ry's jaw with her hand before gently drawing her up into a kiss. She rests her forehead against Ry's when she pulls away and whispers,  ""I don't know what I'd do without you.""

[10:43 PM] Gylfi: Ry sighs into the kiss, and at Rukiya’s words she smiles and says, “That’s one thing you don’t have to worry about... where you go, I go.”"

"4:54 AM] DM: Her voice is fragile and unsure when she says,  ""Would you... stay? I--"" Whatever she was about to say is swallowed by a strangled sound in her throat as a sob tries to escape. Her face screws up into a pained expression and she covers her mouth with one hand like she's trying to hide it.

[5:03 AM] Gylfi: Ry slowly wraps Rukiya in her arms, laying them down on their bed as she does. “I’m not going anywhere,” she says as her hand slowly move up and down Rukiya’s spine. “I’ve got you, Rukiya.”

[5:14 AM] DM: She buries herself in Ryleigh's chest, clinging to bits of fabric like a lifeline as she's overcome by the emotions and exhaustion of the last two days. Her body shakes with the power of her grief as she cries, unable to contain it any longer.

[5:19 AM] Gylfi: She holds Rukiya through it, letting her feel everything she needs to. Eventually Ry starts to softly hum a soothing tune. ((It’s not a spell, she’s just trying to be comforting))

[5:53 AM] DM: It takes time before she evens out, quiet tears replacing wracking sobs.

[2:05 PM] Gylfi: “Tired?” Ry asks softly.

[2:08 PM] DM: She nods. ""My head hurts. Everything hurts.""

[2:34 PM] Gylfi: “Do you think you can sleep?” Ry hesitates. “Would you like me to calm your emotions?”

[9:29 PM] DM: ""I don't know.""

[9:42 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh presses a kiss to Rukiya’s forehead. “Why don’t you try to sleep and I’ll be here to wake you if need be.”

[9:43 PM] DM: ""Are you sure? There's still so much to do.""

[9:45 PM] Gylfi: “I am, and there is, but keeping you healthy is the most important thing to me right now.”

[9:51 PM] DM: She sniffles. ""Healthy...""

[9:59 PM] Gylfi: Ry’s silent for a while, then says, “I know it’s a lot to ask you to be happy right now, so healthy will have to do.”

[10:02 PM] DM: She sniffles again and curls closer.

[10:05 PM] Gylfi: Ry’s arms tighten around her. “I’m sorry Vyon lost it’s leadership. I’m sorry Ascus is the reason this all happened... but most of all, I’m so sorry you’re having to deal with the fallout and that you have to secretly mourn your family. I wish I could do something more for you... more than just holding you, but I know there’s nothing that can be done... only time heals these wounds and even then they don’t always mend.”

"

"6:43 PM] DM: She cries quietly a little longer and drifts in and out of sleep.

[8:06 PM] Gylfi: When Ry’s sure Rukiya is asleep, she’ll slip out of bed, crack their door, and see if there’s someone in the hallway.

[11:30 PM] DM: Are you looking for someone in particular?

[11:40 PM] Gylfi: ((No, Ry’s just hoping there’s staff there so she can ask for food and clemency - if she’s able to come.))

[11:44 PM] DM: Malphon is walking up the hall, apparently counting doors.

[11:46 PM] Gylfi: Ry frowns, then clears her throat to get his attention, and steps into the hallway.

[11:53 PM] DM: ""Ah. Could you tell me in which of these rooms I could find Rukiya?""

[11:55 PM] Gylfi: Ryleigh quirks an eyebrow, like the answer to his question is obvious. “That would be the door behind me, but she’s not currently available. Can I help you?”

[11:57 PM] DM: He straightens his back, hands clasped behind him. ""She was to give me an assignment after having my wound examined.""

[11:57 PM] Gylfi: “What did they say about your wound?” Ry asks.

[11:58 PM] DM: ""Nothing that hasn't already been said."""

"[10:25 AM] Gylfi: “I see.” Ry rubs her her chin in thought. “Malphon, you mentioned earlier that you’ve been regularly side lined by the spymaster. I want you to find out why... where they are... and if they were involved in this.”

[10:27 AM] Gylfi: “We know the guard is compromised, but if we have to worry about the Moonstreams network of spies too... I want to know.”

[11:04 AM] DM: He hums a little. ""Very well. There is this..."" and he pulls a note out and hands it to Ryleigh.

70k.

T

It's written on fancy paper, and the T is in gold ink. ""It was in the Spymaster's office, fallen between the wall and the desk.""

[6:11 PM] Gylfi: “Any idea who T is?”

[7:11 PM] DM: ""No."""

[7:09 AM] Gylfi: “Figured as much,” Ry says, unsurprised.

"[2:35 AM] Gylfi: “May I keep this?”

[7:23 AM] DM: Malphon nods. ""I'll see myself out, then.""

[7:44 AM] Gylfi: Ry nods, then says, “Would you mind asking the staff member you see to come here?”

[7:45 AM] DM: He bristles slightly but says,  ""I suppose."" Then turns on his heel and walks away.

[7:46 AM] Gylfi: She watches him go with a roll of her eyes and slowly opens the door back into their room."

"[4:00 PM] DM: Rukiya's arm is outstretched towards where you had been, but she seems to be asleep.

[8:30 PM] Gylfi: Ry watches her for a while, then pulls a chair up to the bed and takes Rukiya's hand.

[8:31 PM] DM: There's a soft knock at the door a minute or two later.

[8:32 PM] Gylfi: She slowly gets up, careful not to wake Rukiya, and opens the door.

[8:37 PM] DM: Tanjura is on the other side. ""I heard you were looking for something. Is everything all right?""

[9:14 PM] Gylfi: ""Yes, I'm sorry for bothering you but... Rukiya is exhausted and she just got to sleep. I promised I wouldn't leave her while she did. Could you have food sent up here in a few hours?"" Ry bites her lip and adds, ""And if my sister is available I'd like to speak to her.""

[9:20 PM] DM: ""Of course. Is there anything else I can do for you, or her?""

[9:26 PM] Gylfi: ""No, but thank you. You're doing so much already... I- we really appreciate it.""

[9:41 PM] DM: ""Think nothing of it. Guild is family. Rukiya is such a kind soul. I hate to see her in pain.""

[9:42 PM] Gylfi: ""Me too. She doesn't deserve it.""

[11:39 PM] DM: Tanjura nods and excuses herself. A few minutes later there another soft knock at the door."

"[2:40 AM] Gylfi: Ry didn't move away from the door this time, so when the knock comes she opens the door almost immediately.

[9:36 AM] DM: Clemency only glances at Ry before she steps forward and wraps her in a comforting hug.

[9:51 AM] Gylfi: Swallowing hard, Ry lets herself melt into the hug.

[10:01 AM] Gylfi: After a few moments, Ry leads Clemency into the room, closing the door behind them. She pulls up another chair and sits, taking Rukiya's hand. Softly, in infernal, Ry asks, ""You and Rukiya were talking when I came home yesterday.""

[10:12 AM] DM: ""We were. We were discussing grief.""

[10:21 AM] Gylfi: Ry looks over at Rukiya, concern clearly on her face.

[10:35 AM] DM: ""What is it?""

[10:42 AM] Gylfi: ""I'm just worried about her,"" Ry answers, but its clear she's not saying something. ""Why did it have to be Aiden...""

[10:43 AM] DM: Clemency just takes Ry's hand and listens.

[11:23 AM] Gylfi: ""I was hoping he wouldn't hate me. That maybe we could work together to help Ascus, but I should have known anyone raised by Tilman wouldn't want the same things as us.""

[11:29 AM] DM: ""Maybe... but perhaps it is not all on his upbringing. We are a combination of ourselves and those we surround ourselves with. I believe that even if you had been raised in the castle, you would still have found your way to compassion eventually.""

[8:21 PM] Gylfi: Ry shrugs. ""I'm not so sure. I would have been selfish and self centered."" She deflates a little. ""You know I come from bad stock. A Tilman and an Alisdair.""

[8:29 PM] DM: She smiles softly. ""You don't know you as a child... the you you were before dad found you.""

[8:33 PM] Gylfi: ""Avery always said I was a mouthy butt,"" Ry says with a slight smile.

[8:59 PM] DM: ""To him, maybe... but he used to tell me stories about how he'd try to give you whatever he'd found for you to eat, but you wouldn't eat it until he took some too. How you'd always try to cheer him up when he wasn't smiling. You were forced to harden in a world that wanted to break you... but you had a good heart before we found you."" She holds Ry's gaze for an extra moment, making sure she's listening, but Ry can see the moment her thoughts shift and the frown starts to appear in her eyes.

[10:42 PM] Gylfi: Ry doesn't look away and her expression is grateful, like maybe Clemency is right. Then she sees the frown and asks, ""What is it?""

[10:44 PM] DM: ""I... just worry for who my son will be, and hope that surrounding him with kindness will be enough.""

[10:47 PM] Gylfi: ""Sasom, he's half you and half Avery. Ragna couldn't erase that in a few years.""

[10:48 PM] DM: She smiles a little and shakes her head.

[10:51 PM] Gylfi: Ry reaches out for Clemency's hand with her free one. ""You're a great mother, and you both have a support system now. Between you and his auntie Rukiya - there's no way he won't turn out kind.""

[10:53 PM] DM: ""You always did have a knack for seeing the truth you wanted to see,"" she replies.

Rukiya mumbles, ""For good and bad.""

[11:15 PM] Gylfi: Ry frowns, her eyes jumping from Clemency to Rukiya when she speaks. ""It's not your fault, Clemency. You had no say while you were in Isonsall."" She leaves the 'I should have came sooner' unsaid.

[11:18 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""If my eyes were open, I'd roll them. She's too nice to tell you that you missed the whole point of her story.""

[11:18 PM] DM: Clemency tries - and fails - to bite back an amused grin.

[11:23 PM] Gylfi: ""I-"" Ry looks a little flustered. ""I didn't miss the point.""

[11:33 PM] DM: Clemency: ""Are you feeling any better, Rukiya? I'm sorry for waking you.""

Rukiya does finally open her eyes. ""Don't be sorry. Ry can always use hearing more about how she's not destined to be a terrible person.""

[11:39 PM] Gylfi: Ry grumbles a little. ""I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't listen to those thoughts."" She sighs, then says, ""You should be resting, sun'frada. I made sure Malphon had something to do, and food will be brought here in a few hours. Unless you're hungry now.""

[11:41 PM] DM: ""I'm resting..."""

"[2:12 AM] Gylfi: Ry brings Rukiya's hand to her lips and kisses it softly. ""Can I get you anything?""

[9:48 AM] DM: She shakes her head and squeezes Ry's hand. ""I've kept you long enough, if you wanted to go still.""

[6:22 PM] Gylfi: ""I can go tonight, sun'frada. You're more important right now.""

[6:27 PM] DM: Rukiya sighs and starts to sit up. ""I'm fine.  I feel bad enough about not being able to do anything. Don't make me feel guilty about sidelining you, too.""

Clemency: ""I can sit with you, if you need company.""

[8:17 PM] Gylfi: Ry frowns. ""I don't feel sidelined, Rukiya. You shouldn't feel bad about-"" She stops herself.

[8:20 PM] DM: ""If you want to go, go.  If you want to stay, stay... but don't do it just because I'm sad.""

[8:21 PM] Gylfi: Ry stands and sits on the edge I'd the bed. ""Why isn't that reason enough? You're hurting and I want to be here for you."""

"[12:19 AM] DM: The words come so suddenly you're not sure she meant to let them out. ""Because you're  hurting too."" She pauses and closes her eyes, obviously collecting herself. When she opens them, they're apologetic. ""There's so much guilt and loss and grief and worry. I can barely handle people I don't know but you're... overwhelming. Your worry for me is understandable, but I'm drowning in it. I need you to either stop worrying so much or..."" She trails off, not wanting to voice the words that come next - 'do it somewhere else.'

[5:35 AM] Gylfi: ""Okay,"" She says. ""If that's what I can do for you... then I'll go."" Rukiya can likely feel Ry emotionally withdraw as she squeezes Rukiya's hand and stands. ""Just get some rest and let Clemency be here for you."" With a glance at her sister, Ry gives her a small smile. ""She always been better at this stuff than me.""

[7:41 AM] DM: Rukiya's eyes water a bit. ""I'm sorry. I... don't want to hurt you. I love you. Be careful.""

[12:22 PM] Gylfi: Ry walks around to Rukiya's side of the bed and says, ""You have nothing to be sorry about."" She leans over and presses a lingering kiss to Rukiya's forehead. ""I love you too and I promise to be careful.""

[7:32 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""Don't stay out too late.""

[8:47 PM] Gylfi: Ry stands and attaches Dawnbringer to her back. She then walks to the wardrobe and throws on a plain black cloak, pulling its hood up over her head. ""I won't."" She squeezes Clemency's shoulder briefly, then leaves the room.

[9:02 PM] DM: It's probably late afternoon, early evening by this time."

9:11 PM] Ryleigh: Ryleigh heads to whispers, being cautious as she does.

[9:22 PM] DM: She finds her way to the secret entry and into the hideout.

[10:43 PM] DM: It's strangely quiet. The common spaces are empty.

[9:07 AM] DM: There's a sour smell in the air and everything about such an unfamiliar expectation in a familiar place sets you on edge.

[10:15 AM] Ryleigh: She'll stick to the shadows as much as possible. Carefully making her way to where Berolt's office is.

[10:19 AM] DM: Give me a perception check.

[10:20 AM] Ryleigh: ((22 in roll20))

[10:24 AM] DM: The smell gets stronger as you approach Berolt's office and you notice, before you touch the doorknob, that it's pockmarked and tarnished as if partially eaten away and that's when you realize what that smell is- acid. Nudging the door with your foot, it swings open to reveal that his office is coated in it- every board, every shelf, every piece of paper in his office has been reduced to sludge.

[10:25 AM] Ryleigh: ((This isn't some kind of protocol thing that Ry would know about, right?))

[10:26 AM] DM: Whether it is or not, you don't know. Berolt never shared it with you, if it is.

[10:26 AM] Ryleigh: ((okay, and there's no one around? would she know of an evac plan if whispers was compromised?))

[10:31 AM] DM: Because of the secretive nature of the group, there isn't a designated plan. They'd guard against infiltration and double-crossing by not having known plans. Best you can guess is that if there was a situation where this place was compromised, they'd scatter, lay low, and try to contact each other through other means if and when necessary.

That said, I'll say that using that previous perception roll, you do hear the sound of metal against leather from behind you- the sound of a dagger being drawn.

[10:34 AM] Ryleigh: Ry turns - ready to dodge if needed, but she assumes its Berolt, and quickly says, "Don't, its me."

[10:39 AM] DM: It's not Berolt, but you recognize them as a fairly new member of Whispers- a half-orc you think was named Korl. Dagger in hand, they've got a bloody gash over one swollen eye. "Come back to finish the job?"

[10:42 AM] Ryleigh: "What?" Ry says, her stance still defensive. "I've been in this organization much longer than you, so for all I know you did this."

[10:45 AM] DM: "Backstabbing Ascan. I never understood why anyone trusted you."

[11:35 AM] Ryleigh: "I didn't backstab anyone. Whispers is my family - this place was my home when I didn't have one."

[11:38 AM] Ryleigh: She take a moment to calm down then Ry drops her defensive stance and says, "Let me heal your eye. The longer that wound sits the worse it'll get."

[11:40 AM] DM: Give me an insight check.

[11:44 AM] Ryleigh: ((10 -\_-))

[11:49 AM] DM: It's not hard to see the fear in their eyes as you move toward them. They hold the dagger between you and them. "Don't touch me! I saw you with them. You led them here, traitor!"

[11:53 AM] Ryleigh: "What do you mean I led them here?" Ry looks concerned, her voice is lined with worry. "Do you mean the reunifiers were here? Listen, you have it wrong. I'm a spy, and we needed an inside person and there I was - already made. I was the one who told Berolt they were the ones behind all this mess."

[12:01 PM] DM: "Stop playing dumb! I know what I saw. You brought them here. You pointed at Berolt's office. You... you used your Asten-cursed fire sword on Lukiul while they tried to take Berolt." Tears fill their eyes and they lower their dagger. "Whatever you came for, there's nothing left. If you're just here to clean up witnesses, then be on with it. I know I'm no match for you."

[12:08 PM] Ryleigh: "Is Berolt okay?" Ry asks urgently. Then with a sudden realization, she answers Korl. Ry withdraws Dawnbringer. "I have a sun sword, not a fire sword." She sighs. "The person you saw wasn't me... it was Prince Aden of Ascus impersonating me." Ry sheaths Dawnbringer. "He tried to kill me yesterday. It seems he found a better way to hurt me."

[12:09 PM] DM: Give me a persuasion check.

[12:10 PM] Ryleigh: ((14 - seriously, why can't I roll lol))

[12:14 PM] DM: Their brow furrows and they wince a little from the pain.

[12:17 PM] Ryleigh: "You don't have to trust me, but at least let me heal you."

[12:20 PM] DM: They don't object, but they also don't move forward, just standing there trying to reconcile what they saw with what they're hearing now.

[12:31 PM] Ryleigh: Ry slowly moves closer, and places her hand over their eye. She hums a sorrow filled tune and white light pulses from her hand. She withdraws her hand, and without another word, she leaves whispers.

[12:40 PM] Ryleigh: ((assuming she does indeed leave whispers, I want to have Ry do something else.))

[12:40 PM] DM: Where's she going?

[12:41 PM] Ryleigh: ((Takara's temple lol))

[12:41 PM] DM: Has Ry ever been there before?

[12:41 PM] Ryleigh: ((No but she knows its somewhere over by the guildhall. Just because that was said when they went guildhall looking))

[12:52 PM] Ryleigh: ((Or more specifically, she'll make sure she isn't being followed the head towards the guildhall and go into the Northern woods.

[12:58 PM] DM: Easy enough. The sun's starting to set as you reach the treeline.

[1:00 PM] Ryleigh: There's a small amount of hesitancy as she crosses into the woods. She goes in far enough to not be seen but hopefully not far enough to noticed by other things.

[1:03 PM] DM: The Misty Wilds aren't like the Fytulk. Sure, there's a lot of scary things, but it doesn't infest the entirety of the forest like it did back in Falberk. Although it has a menacing reputation among those who don't know better- in no small part because of its role in 'stealing' Prince Badru away- those who make their living from the woods and those who live on the edge know that the woods are just woods nearest Riverrun. The effects of the dead god are not felt this far south.

[1:13 PM] Ryleigh: Ry picks a spot at the base of a tree and sits. She withdraws Dawnbringer, holding her in her lap. She guilt ridden and worried for everyone in whispers.

[1:16 PM] DM: You hear Dawnbringer's voice. "You are not at fault for what he does."

[1:20 PM] Ryleigh: "I know, but... I led him to my friends. To the only organized resistance that was left. I should have been more careful." She sighs. "Unless he already knew about whispers, which... is likely."

[1:21 PM] DM: (Are you speaking aloud or mentally?)

[1:24 PM] Ryleigh: (Out loud)

[1:29 PM] DM: "If it makes you feel any better, he did a terrible job of impersonating you," Berolt's voice says from somewhere to your left.

[1:31 PM] Ryleigh: Ryleigh jumps at his voice, her head swinging around to find the source. "You're okay," she says, still a little startled, but a relived smile clearly displayed on her face.

[1:32 PM] Ryleigh: "It does make me feel better. Korl seemed convinced it was me so... I just assumed that everyone else did too."

[1:34 PM] DM: He steps out from behind a tree, silently, tucking his dagger away. "Korl's ok? They were on the ground when I escaped. I'd assumed they were killed."

[1:39 PM] Ryleigh: "Yes. They had a head injury, and despite their opinion of me, allowed me heal them." Ry bites her lip. "I'm sorry, Berolt. I thought I shook them off my trail."

[1:46 PM] DM: He sighs and leans against a tree. "Well, no matter how much Rukiya might be trying to teach you subtlety, she clearly has more work to do... or you would have noticed me following you." He pauses for a moment and you can see that while he's usually fairly tired looking and on the edge of exhaustion, there's something more now too. Something that is almost physically wearing him down, causing his shoulders to slump. "Guess I can't blame you too much for being distracted if you're so caught up in all of this that a prince is after you."

[1:50 PM] Ryleigh: "You followed me?" Ry asks, shaking her head. "Damnit." It takes her a moment but then it seems that she finds the courage to ask, "What happened?"

[1:58 PM] DM: "Handful of human men in armor came down from the temple entrance, led by someone who looked like you but with a much bigger sword that was on fire. They were immediately hostile. They took out a couple of us before anyone even knew what was happening. I set off the failsafe to protect the other cells as I escaped. I was just heading back to take stock when I saw you leaving, so I followed."

[2:00 PM] Ryleigh: "Wanted to make sure I wasn't the impostor?" Ry asks, a slight attempt at humor.

[2:01 PM] DM: He shrugs. "You or not-you, I figured I'd learn something."

[2:02 PM] Ryleigh: "I'm sorry all you learned was that I'm still a terrible spy."

[2:04 PM] DM: He hums a little. "It doesn't have to be all I learned."

[2:07 PM] Ryleigh: "You aren't going to ask... are you?"

[2:16 PM] DM: He inhales deeply and sighs heavily. "I never have before... figured people could keep their secrets and if it was important enough, I'd learn it eventually. Maybe that was a mistake. Maybe that led to the loss of several of our guildmembers and decades of work collecting information. Maybe it wasn't and I'm just hoping you'll see fit to share on your own. Not sure I've decided yet."

[2:21 PM] Ryleigh: Ry's eyes seem unsure, but then she says, "Last month, when I... I died. I discovered something about myself." She grips onto Dawnbringer for support. "I put us all in danger... and I'm truly sorry."

[2:22 PM] Ryleigh: "You and everyone who got hurt because I stayed quiet deserve to know why. Prince Aiden is my half brother."

[2:26 PM] DM: He doesn't look surprised. "You didn't know?"

[2:26 PM] Ryleigh: Ry opens her mouth, then closes it. Then opens it to say, "No? I... wait, did you?"

[2:29 PM] DM: He tilts his head in kind of a shrug. "I had my suspicions for a while, but it was only confirmed recently."

[2:35 PM] Ryleigh: "My name may not be what I thought I was. I'm not who I thought I was... but I am still the girl who wants freedom for the people of Ascus, and Vyon. I'm just in a better position to do something about that now."

[2:40 PM] DM: "I'm very good at what I do... and I think I'm a pretty good judge of character. I never doubted your motives. Methods, maybe... skill, certainly... but you want the right things."

[2:43 PM] Ryleigh: Ryleigh looks immensely relieved, but her expression turns a little melancholy as she says firmly, "I would understand if you don't want me in whispers anymore. After everything, I'm not sure anyone would trust me anyway."

[2:53 PM] DM: He kind of huffs a laugh. "I'm pretty sure by the time all of this is over, you're not going to want to be part of it anymore anyway. It's not very common to have royalty in an anti-authoritarian group.... or famous people in a clandestine organization." He shrugs. "But if it doesn't work out that way, I'll keep a seat warm for you. Probably going to head back, see if there's anything that can be done, then head out to update some of the other cells. Think Riverrun's going to be a minute before we can recover."

[2:59 PM] Ryleigh: "I think you underestimate the amount of change I have planned." Ry stands, and tucks Dawnbringer away. "If I manage to overthrow my dear old dad - the new Ascus won't have nobility, or royalty. People will be given positions based on their own ability." She smiles Berolt and adds, "I'm happy you're okay."

[3:03 PM] DM: "Likewise. Good luck, Ryleigh. I hope we never end up on opposite sides. And..." he pauses for a moment, then adds, "tell Rukiya I'm sorry for her loss." Before Ry can respond, he's gone.

[3:05 PM] Ryleigh: Ry sits with that for a few moments, then shakes her head, her smile still in place. Then with a heavy sigh, she makes her way back to the guildhall.

[3:17 PM] DM: When you enter, Guardian greets you with a message from Rukiya that she's in the warroom.

[3:24 PM] Ryleigh: As she makes her way there, Ry does her best to compartmentalize her feelings - hoping that'll be enough to not overwhelm Rukiya. She knocks at the door.

[3:45 PM] DM: A few seconds pass before Rukiya opens the door. When she realizes it's Ry, she opens the door further and steps back, leaning against the table.

[3:47 PM] Ryleigh: ((Is she alone?))

[3:48 PM] DM: Yes.

[3:48 PM] Ryleigh: Ry steps inside and closes the door behind her. "What are you up too?" She asks, stepping further into the room but not crowding Rukiya.

[3:50 PM] DM: "Thinking. I'm sorry I pushed you away." She holds out her hand in invitation for Ry to come closer.

[3:53 PM] Ryleigh: She does come closer, taking Rukiya's hand and pressing a light kiss to it. "You don't need to apologize for taking care of yourself. I've gotten very used to not hiding my emotions around you."

[3:55 PM] DM: "I don't want you to have to hide them."

[3:56 PM] Ryleigh: "I don't want to overwhelm you," Ry answers, brushing her thumb over the back of Rukiya's hand.

[4:09 PM] DM: She sighs. "I missed you... I regretted it the instant I let you go."

[4:15 PM] Ryleigh: "L'auorphiem," Ryleigh whispers as she pulls Rukiya into her, her lips brushing against Rukiya's in a soft kiss.

[4:23 PM] DM: Ry expects it to be soft, but it significantly less so on Rukiya's side as she presses against her. She pulls away just enough to say, "Please... overwhelm me."

[4:25 PM] Ryleigh: Ry's cheeks pink and she swallows hard. "Are you sure that's what you want?"

[4:27 PM] DM: She nods and adds, "If you're ok with that."

[4:31 PM] Ryleigh: A grin makes its way onto Ry's face. She lifts Rukiya easily and lets herself feel so Rukiya can feel exactly how okay it is.

7:18 AM] DM: Later, Rukiya's cuddled up against Ry, her head on Ry's shoulder, not quite drifting off, she sleepily asks, "Where did you go?"

[11:34 AM] Ryleigh: Ry squirms a bit. "Whispers." She tries to not let the guilt seep out of her. "It's all... gone. Apparently Aiden impersonated me to infiltrate whispers from the Asten temple."

[11:36 AM] DM: Rukiya's sleepy demeanor disappears as she props herself up on an elbow to look at Ry. "What? Gods... I'm so sorry, Ry."

[11:36 AM] DM: "Is... did anyone..."

[11:38 AM] Ryleigh: "Yes," Ry answers. "There were loses. Berolts okay though. He followed me from hq into the woods. Scared the daylight out of me."

[11:40 AM] Ryleigh: "It's all gone... because I wasn't careful enough. I was so focused on not leading Aiden here that..." Ry pushes out a frustrated breath. "It's just more blood on my already reddened hands."

[11:41 AM] DM: "You don't know that, Ry."

[12:00 PM] Ryleigh: Ryleigh pursues her lips. "But then how did he know about the temple's entrance?" She's staring intently at a spot on Rukiya's bare shoulder. "I am the worst spy, and now... everyone knows."

[12:04 PM] DM: "The temple entrance? Is that how you went through? Is Lydia ok?"

[12:05 PM] Ryleigh: "I... didn't go there. It's selfish but I couldn't see what damage I'd done there too. Instead I came home... well, I went in the woods because I didn't want to come home."

[12:10 PM] DM: "I'm sorry I made you feel like you weren't wanted here." She leans in and kisses Ry softly. "And... I'm sorry that I... didn't take your feelings and needs into account first. I should have made sure you were ok."

[12:13 PM] Ryleigh: "Sun'frada, you gave me a choice - you always have - and I chose this... you. If anyone should be sorry, it should be me. I've been so worried and upset for you that it didn't occur to me how it was effecting you. None of this should be about me..."

[12:19 PM] DM: She looks down at Ry for several seconds, absently tracing her features with soft fingers, but her eyes are unfocused like she's thinking.

[12:22 PM] DM: "It feels like we're being pushed, doesn't it? Things that might hold us back neutralized."

[12:42 PM] Ryleigh: "I-" Ry starts. "I didn't think of it like that."

[12:43 PM] Ryleigh: She meets Rukiya's eyes and adds, "I told Berolt about me, and he said to give you his condolences... which means he knows about you too."

[12:46 PM] DM: She blinks out of her unfocus and looks at Ry. "She's pushing. It's going to come out sooner rather than later."

[12:50 PM] Ryleigh: Ryleigh sighs. "Maybe it's because my secret is already out. If it's Aiden, it may have already reached Tilman." She looks a little guilty. "I may have told Aiden to let our father know that I was coming for everything they said I couldn't have." Shaking her head, Ry places her hand on her forehead in exasperation. "Why do I have such a big mouth."

[12:57 PM] DM: She shakes her head. "It had nothing to do with your run in with Aiden. I'm... I'm close to putting something together. We may not have as much time as I'd thought." She pauses and looks back at Ry briefly before leaning down and kissing her, lingering for some time. "Turns out... you were the perfect solution. Everything's much clearer and I feel much better now."

[12:59 PM] Ryleigh: Ry doesn't rush the kiss, allowing Rukiya the time she needs. Then at her words a light chuckle leaves Ryleigh's chest. She wraps her arms around Rukiya. "I'm glad I could help, because the last thing I want is to burden you further."

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