S: Ryfika 2

To Ryfika 1

## Ryfika Sails

*[*9:07 PM*]*DM*:*So you're headed away from the party.

*[*9:12 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"So...the newcomer."

*[*9:14 PM*]*DM*:*"What about him?"

*[*9:16 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh keeps her head forward, her jaw is a little tense. "You disappeared with him and reappeared with him."

*[*9:17 PM*]*DM*:*Safika looks at Ryleigh for a moment. "I had a chat with him. Are you mad about something?"

*[*9:21 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"No." Ryleigh says it simply. "I just...I know you don't need my protection, I'm aware you can take care of yourself...but it doesn't stop me from worrying." She looks at Safika, "he was so quick to challenge Urrak and then you snuck off to have a conversation with him..."

*[*9:23 PM*]*DM*:*She chuckles. "Oh, *that.* He's all bark, no bite. And I didn't exactly *sneak off*. I told you I'd catch up and I walked around the corner."

*[*9:26 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh exhales, "you know what I meant...what if he hadn't been all bark?" She shakes her head. "No, never mind. I trust you and your judgement. I'm sorry...forget I said anything."

*[*9:30 PM*]*DM*:*She smiles. "I like that you care enough to worry... but you don't need to get so broody about it. Besides, I knew you were right around the corner to back me up if I needed it."

*[*9:33 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"...I know, you're right...I'm sorry for being difficult." Ryleigh frustratedly sighs, "all these feelings have me mixed up."

*[*9:36 PM*]*DM*:*"You're not difficult, just... dramatic." She bumps Ryleigh with her shoulder.

*[*9:38 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh huffs indignantly, "I'm not dramatic, I'm serious."

*[*9:38 PM*]*DM*:*She just laughs.

*[*9:40 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Despite herself, Ryleigh's lips pull into a smile as Safika laughs. "Alright...maybe I *can* be a little dramatic."

*[*9:41 PM*]*DM*:*"Just a little. It's going to be a little harder to find a place to sleep tonight now that people are back."

*[*9:43 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"We could have stayed at the Cask. I have a room there, but I trust in your ability to find us lodging - unless you do want to stay at the Cask?"

*[*9:44 PM*]*DM*:*"The Cask wouldn't bother me, but one room probably isn't going to cut it, is it?"

*[*9:49 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh blushes a little and stutters out, "I mean....I wouldn't...it's not like..." she takes a breath, because *wtf*, as she collects herself, she rubs the back of her neck, "I don't mind...if you don't. After last night, I..." she shakes her head and closes her mouth, not finishing the sentence.

*[*9:52 PM*]*DM*:*She smirks at Ryleigh's embarrassment but says, "I meant because I didn't want you to try to kill me in your sleep. I can only imagine what that would do to your broodiness."

*[*9:53 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"I sleep better when you're around." Ryleigh mumbles, before looking determinedly away.

*[*10:02 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"The other night, when I broke down." She's still looking away. "I felt weak and scared...usually I have nightmares on nights like that. I also choose to stay in my armor on those nights. It's something I take comfort in - makes me feel stronger than I am in those moments." Ryleigh bites her lip, and realizes she isn't making a lot of sense. "I didn't have any nightmares that night, or last night." She breathes out, "I...you make me feel safe."

*[*10:12 PM*]*DM*:*She pulls Ryleigh to a stop and faces her. "You're not weak, Ry. You've been through a lot and you try to carry it all alone. Your nightmares are just your mind's way of telling you that you need help.... and that doesn't make you weak either. But if I help, then I'm glad. I'm happy to help you however I can."

*[*10:22 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh steps closer, her eyes glossy, "you're speaking from experience..." she searches Safika's face after the words leave her lips.

*[*10:25 PM*]*DM*:*"Not... how you think. They weren't my nightmares."

*[*10:29 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"Someone you loved?" Ryleigh doesn't move to touch her, in case she's overstepped.

*[*10:38 PM*]*DM*:*She nods a little. "The same person who put all the guilt on his shoulders for something that wasn't really his fault... and it got him killed. I don't want to watch you do the same thing."

*[*10:47 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh moves a hand to Safika's face and leans in, pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead, "I told you last night that I cared for you." She pulls back enough to look into Safika's eyes, "I promise that I'll be here for you; and I can't do that on any plane of existence other than this one." Ryleigh waits another few moments before adding, "I'm not him. I won't leave you in loneliness."

*[*10:55 PM*]*DM*:*Safika pauses for a moment, her eyes closed, then she opens them with a breath of a laugh, but her smirk's not as stable as it usually is. "You sure know how to make a girl feel special."

*[*11:17 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh almost pulls Safika into a hug, but then she remembers shes still in her armor. "I'd hug you right now, but..." she motions to her armor, "I'd rather do it outside of my armor." She takes Safika's hand and leads her to the Cask, then into her room. Once inside, Ryleigh discards her armor and moves into Safika's space. She lifts her hand and threads it into Safika's hair - pulling her close, "You *are* special to *me*."

*[*11:19 PM*]*DM*:*She smiles just enough that Ryleigh's not really sure if it's a smile or a smirk, and says, "You trying to tell me something, Ry?"

*[*11:22 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*"I am...I want to kiss you, Rukiya." Ryleigh says seriously.

*[*11:26 PM*]*DM*:*Her smile gets a bit wider. "That's not exactly something friends *do*, you know."

*[*8:45 AM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh retracts her hand from Safika’s hair to lightly sweep her fingertips over Safika’s forehead. “No, they don’t...but no one else makes me stammer like an idiot or makes my skin flush.” Her hand follows the angle of Safika’s brow to her cheekbones. “You make me nervous...sweaty palms, a rapid beating heart.” Ryleigh’s fingertips travel along Safika’s jaw to her lips. “You’re beautiful and driven and caring. You’re funny and wise and strong.” Her thumb presses into Safika’s bottom lip. “I want to protect you, even if you don’t need it. I want to know you, even if you don’t want to share.” Ryleigh drops her hand and takes a respectful step away, leaving only a few inches between them, “I want to kiss you, but is that what you want?”

*[*8:59 AM*]*DM*:*She steps back into Ryleigh's space and takes her hand, interlocking their fingers. "I do... I have... I just had to wait for you to catch up, but I knew you'd get here eventually."

*[*9:34 AM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh's free hand comes up, as if on its own accord, her fingers cup Safika's cheek, and she tugs them together. Their lips brush as Ryleigh whispers, "I'm sorry it took me so long." Ryleigh meant it to be gentle, because it’s their first kiss, but instead it’s hungry, and Safika doesn’t even hesitate. She pushes back, her lips eager and insistent. Ryleigh’s a little clumsy but there’s desperation on Safika’s tongue. There’s a hand in Ryleigh’s hair and when Safika’s fingers tug, Ryleigh’s head falls back as she gasps, the hitch in her breath only worsening as lips brush her neck. Then Ryleigh has a sudden moment of clarity and chokes out, “you’re...you’re not coming back to Riverrun with me...are you?”

*[*9:52 AM*]*DM*:*Safika stills for a moment, then drops her forehead against Ryleigh's shoulder. She takes a deep breath before saying, "No... not yet, but I'll catch up soon." She shifts her head slightly and her nose brushes against Ryleigh's neck as if to ask if it's ok to continue.

*[*11:58 AM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh gives the smallest of nods in permission. Her voice is soft as Safika’s lips press to her throat, “Just be careful...and come back to me.”

*[*12:53 PM*]*DM*:*"I will." Ryleigh can feel her smirk against her skin as she adds, "Can't let my sleeping buddy suffer too long."

*[*2:14 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Ryleigh stiffens at Safika’s words, “I...” her throat bobs as she swallows around the emotion building there, “is that all I am to you, a sleeping buddy? Is this...not more than that?”

*[*2:45 PM*]*DM*:*Safika pulls away and looks at Ryleigh, trying to read her. "No, Ry, I..." She sighs and drops her hands. "You're not just one of the people at the bar I take back to my room... I mean, don't get me wrong, I *want* you... but you said that you weren't sure how that worked for you and you're also my best friend and the only person I've let even remotely close to me in... a long time. I just don't want to push you or rush you.... or hurt you. I don't know what you think it means, what you want it to mean... and I'm not sure how much you expect of me in return. Not that I think you'd seduce me to unlock my tragic backstory, just that there is usually a level of trust and transparency in a relationship that I'm not sure I'm ready for... or if being in a relationship means giving up certain things or if that's even a thought I need to be having while I'm sitting here kissing you and trying to keep my hands from roaming too far and you know if you want to go ahead and interrupt me at any time so I can stop embarrassing myself, that would be great."

*[*7:15 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*A smiles tugs at the corners of Ryleigh's mouth at Safika's words. She reaches out to take Safika's hand before bringing it to her lips in a gentle kiss. "Sex doesn't repulse me. I've just...never had the urge to have it before. But...in case you missed my reaction to our kiss earlier...I *want* you too. I'm not sure where my boundaries are because this is new to me, but I'm comfortable communicating what's ok and what's not to you." Her lips graze Safika's forehead. "I told you last night that I didn't have to know or understand your reasonings for keeping your past a secret to care for you; and I meant it. I don't love you because of where you're from or who you were, but for who you *are* now. I love you because you're kind, because you're funny, because you don't allow me to wallow in guilt." Ryleigh grins at the last part. "It's *you*...it's always been *you*...I just, didn't see it until now." Her other hand presses to Safika's cheek. "You're my best friend too...and the first person I've felt comfortable with since...I lost my family." Ryleigh bites her lip before saying the next part, "I want us to be together, but if that's something that can't happen right now...I'll understand, and Rukiya, I'll still be your best friend."

*[*7:33 PM*]*DM*:*She shakes her head softly with a smile. "It should be illegal to be this charming."

Ryleigh smirks. "I've never been big on laws anyway."

Safika laughs, then her face softens to a smile. "I want to be with you too... and we both have our boundaries. We'll just have to learn what they are together." She tilts her head a little and grins. "Are you ready to teach me?"

*[*7:55 PM*]*Ryleigh - Nicole*:*Instead of responding, Ryleigh closes the distance between them and their lips meet in a heated kiss. Somehow the kiss is still slow and discovering, like despite their *want*, they have a deeper, more important need to have each other in a way that's so much more than physical. Ryleigh lifts Safika and carries her to the bed - spending the last several hours they have together learning Ryleigh's boundaries.

## Session 50

*[*4:26 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Upon seeing Ryleigh head towards her, a huge toothy grin spreads over Urrak's face. Her hands go from resting beneath her chin to sitting in front of her lips in a kind of praying position. Her eyes are alight. "Good mornin' Ryleigh~" she holds the "ee" sound in an almost sing-song way.

*[*4:27 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh raises an eyebrow, "Morning, Urrak."

*[*4:27 PM*]*Alex - Nolanos*:*Nolanos is downstairs now, and seeing Urrak so.... chipper is strange in an amusing way.

*[*4:27 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*She raises her eyebrows "So...did ye have fun?"

*[*4:28 PM*]*Felicia - Seirixori*:*Seir's leaning on the wall near the door, looking a little ridiculous with all of her stuff piled on her person. She's got a hand turning over the panther Nolanos gave her and she just waits and watches.

*[*4:28 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh gives Urrak a *look*. "Yes."

*[*4:30 PM*]*Gay - Ravaphine*:*Rav makes her way downstairs and catches the interaction between Ry and Urrak. She nods in amusement and has a seat next to Nolanos.

*[*4:31 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"You know...When ye told me the walls were thin in here, I didn't really believe ye. I figured ye were jus' a bit of a creep." she moves her hands to the table and taps her fingers "But now...oh now I believe ye. And my, my, Ry...I never thought ye'd be so...*vocal*." she winks and leans closer "And *Safika*. Gods above, I can see why ye picked 'er. She may not be from Shetai, but that blood runs deep."(edited)

*[*4:31 PM*]*Gay - Ravaphine*:*You can hear snickers from the other end of the bar where Rav is sitting.

*[*4:35 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh blushes slightly but her voice is unchanging as she says, "keep talking Orc and I'll remind you what it feels like to have my knife pressed against your throat."

*[*4:36 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak laughs when she sees her cheeks flush "Oh, come now, Ry. I'm just congratulatin' ye. Though...maybe ye can clarify somethin'."

*[*4:37 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*She leans in on an elbow "There was something I heard ye say, and I'm guessin it's somethin' in Elvish but ye just said it so *enthusiastically*..."

*[*4:38 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh continues to give Urrak a hard look as she speaks.(edited)

*[*4:38 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*she drops her volume a bit "What's 'Rukiya'? *Is it somethin' dirty? Ye know ye can tell me if it is* "

*[*4:41 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh can't move quick enough as she leaps out of her chair and presses her hand to Urrak's mouth. "Urrak! Seriously, not *here*" her voice is a panicked whisper and her eyes are worried.(edited)

*[*4:42 PM*]*DM*:*The patrons and workers of the Cask weren't really paying any attention before, but now there are eyes turned your direction.

*[*4:42 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak pulls her hand from her mouth "What? Sure there are elf-folk 'ere but it can't be *that*bad."

*[*4:43 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Realizing they have an audience, Ryleigh steps back from Urrak and plasters a look of anger to her face, "watch your tongue Orc or I'll cut it from your mouth."

*[*4:45 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak looks at the now interested patrons out of the corner of her eye and then shifts her gaze back to Ryleigh "Alright, Asten, *geez*. Tone it down, eh? Folks'er tryin' t' eat breakfast in peace."(edited)

*[*4:47 PM*]*DM*:*Safika and Malica come down the stairs, talking softly to each other with grins on their faces. They both stop short when the doors and windows slam open.

*[*4:49 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh's head snaps in the direction of the door and windows, worry etched on her face. Then she spots Seir standing in the doorway and releases the breath she was holding.

*[*4:50 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"*K'loud kakk av d'ho kav* what the hells?!" Urrak brings her hands up to her head to shield it from anything she thinks is flying through the windows. When she realizes nothing is, she relaxes. "What in the godsdamn..."

*[*4:51 PM*]*DM*:*Safika walks up to Ryleigh's side. "What did I miss? What's with the noise?"

*[*4:51 PM*]*Felicia - Seirixori*:*Seir clears her throat, a little surprised at how loud it was, "I just figured I'd inform you... all, that I'm going to go talk to the Baroness. You can, uh... continue with your...breakfast. Meet by the fountain when you're done? Great, bye." She doesn't wait for a response and quickly takes off.

*[*4:52 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak waits until Seirixiori is out of earshot. "A'course it's Seir. Why am I not surprised..."

*[*4:53 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh swallows and stutters a bit, "uhh, well you missed Urrak trying to embarrass me about last night and then Seir making a scene because...it might have been escalating into an argument?"(edited)

*[*4:56 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Are ye askin' me? Cuz I can tell ye it was. Though I still don't get why..." she trails off and crosses her arms, leaning back in her chair as she does. She looks over to Malica and smiles "Mornin', *kou'idadir*"

*[*4:56 PM*]*DM*:*Malica smiles and takes the seat next to Urrak, her hand resting on Urrak's thigh. "Morning."

*[*4:58 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh's eyes narrow at Urrak, but she's suddenly thankful Malica is there to distract her. She looks apologetically at Safika and whispers in Elven, "*I may not have been as careful with my...words...last night as I should have been*."

*[*5:02 PM*]*DM*:*Safika looks like she's working through something for a second, then comprehension dawns and she smirks at Urrak. "Right... the 'loud one'... thin walls. Mmm... that could be an issue, but..." she turns to Ryleigh, "it was bound to come out if they stuck around Riverrun long anyway. I'm going to go get started so I can hopefully catch up soon. Be safe." She pushes up on her toes and gives Ryleigh a quick peck on the cheek before winking at Urrak and walking out.

*[*5:03 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh blushes slightly and calls after her, "you too."

*[*5:03 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak watches Safika go and then slowly turns back to Ryleigh "Ok...what th' fuck is goin' on?"

*[*5:03 PM*]*Gay - Ravaphine*:*Rav crosses her arms and raises an eyebrow in amusement. "Just friends?"(edited)

*[*5:05 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"No, we're more - now." Ryleigh answers Ravaphine. "Urrak, we can talk on the way to Riverrun, but not here. Just, let it go for right now, please."

*[*5:11 PM*]*Gay - Ravaphine*:*Her eyes widen. "*I knew it*," she says smilling.

*[*8:00 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"I am bein' entirely serious. Fer once." she smiles and looks ahead. "Your eyes get real dark...yer voice gets rough. It's a real sight t' behold. Especially fer such a small human."

*[*8:04 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"You'd never believe it, but I have great people skills. I'm discovering that I'm more protective when there's someone who may...threaten the group." Ryleigh sighs, "I shouldn't be like that." She waits a few moments before grumbling "...and I'm not small for a human woman."

*[*8:08 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Yer protective of yer friends. Most folks would say that's a good thing." she elbows her playfully "Do I have t' keep tellin' ye that ye put too much pressure on yerself or should I just write it on yer forehead?"

*[*8:10 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh looks down at her feet and grins at Urraks words. "It's her name." Ryleigh says randomly.

*[*8:12 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak furrows her brow "D-did ye say 'Name'? What are ye on about?"(edited)

*[*8:15 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh flushes a little, "earlier, at the Cask. Rukiya. It's....it's Safika's real name. I wasn't as careful as I usually am last night, because...well..." she rubs the back of her neck.

*[*8:18 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak can't help but start laughing. She smacks Ryleigh on arm "Ha! What did I say about Shetai blood? She had ye screamin'." she winds down to a chuckle and wipes some tears from her eyes. After a moment, she catches her breath. "So, why's yer girlfriend usin' an alias? She on th' run?"(edited)

*[*8:20 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh's cheeks feel like they're on fire at the 'screaming' comment, "by the gods, was I really that loud?" She buries her face in her hand in embarrassment.

*[*8:23 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak rubs her back "Ye were. But *own* it. Ye can be as loud as the fuck ye want when yer makin' love. It's called *passion*. " she can't help but giggle a bit more at Ryleigh's blush "Is it weird t' say I'm proud o' ye?"

*[*8:25 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*: This* is one of the few times she wishes she had a helmet. "I wouldn't know if that's weird...this is all new to me." Ryleigh doesn't remove her face from her hands, "granted I'm not entirely sure why you're proud of me to begin with." She says it more to herself than to Urrak.(edited)

*[*8:28 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Well, yer figurin' out who ye are..." she taps a knuckle on Ryleigh's chestplate "Outside o' this. That's why."

*[*8:29 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh raises a questioning eyebrow, "I don't know what that means."

*[*8:31 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"What did they do to you in that academy?" she shakes her head, laughing softly "Outside o' yer oaths, yer armor, yer paladin...ness. Yer figurin' out how t' be, fer lack of a better term, 'human'. It's nice t' see."

*[*8:39 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh doesn't answer immediately, she stays quiet long enough that you're not sure she's going to answer. When she finally does, her voice is gentle, "I know who I am, Urrak. I've always known, but I can't live whatever life I want, I *have* to do more, to be more. It's easier to not care and with all of this" Ryleigh gestures to herself "I've never found it hard to push people away. I guess I'm learning how to let people in because honestly, I'm tired of being lonely."

*[*8:44 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak hooks an arm around her shoulders and shakes her playfully "Well I'm glad. It's rough bein' alone. Things are better when ye have folks t' bust yer balls about bein' super serious and dish about all yer sexual encounters with." she pats her on the shoulder as she pulls away "*Never pictured ye t' be a bottom.*" she says, teasing her.

*[*8:46 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"We switched." Ryleigh replies seriously. "Unlike you Urrak, I know how to give *and*receive." She adds teasingly.(edited)

*[*8:48 PM*]*Jonathan - Elowyn*:*From down the road, ahead of the group a little ways, Elowyn steps out from the trees, brushes his pants off, and slowly trots back towards the group. he waves in greeting.

*[*8:48 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"There she is!" Urrak laughs loudly again. "And what can I say? I'm *greedy*" she pauses a moment when she sees Elowyn "Oh...he's back."

8:59 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh shoves Urrak, "I'm sorry about this morning. I didn't mean to overreact, but part of me was hoping you'd let it go while we were in a crowded space."

*[*9:01 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"I'm sorry fer pressin' it. I swear I didn't know it was such a sensitive matter. Must be hard bein' on th' run. But she's a quick one, eh?"

*[*9:02 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"I never said she was on the run." Ryleigh supplies before sighing, "you didn't hear her at all last night?"

*[*9:05 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Oh, I heard her. I just like makin' ye blush." she pauses a minute "But I'm not sure what that has t' do with it."

*[*9:08 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh remains quiet, not commenting further.

## Session 59

*[*10:39 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh leaves Kendall at the temple, she navigates the city alright, and finds the Blood of the Vine easy enough. She enters the tavern and spots Urrak sitting at the bar, Ryleigh rolls her eyes and takes a seat next to her, ordering a non-alcoholic beverage.

*[*10:43 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Well now, look who it is." Urrak bumps her shoulder before tipping her tankard in her direction "It's water. I could feel ye judgin' me from th' moment ye clanked on in." she laughs and takes a swig before finally turning to the woman. "Y'know it suits ye. Th' agin'. Makes yer seriousness seem more...earned."

*[*10:44 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"I think you just like having someone that looks your age around," Ryleigh tries to joke, but it comes out humorless.

*[*10:48 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Ha! Yes, bein' with all o' ye ankle biters was gettin' a little tirin'." she reaches over and shakes her lightly by the pauldron. "Don't worry, we'll get ye back t' yer youthful self. Wouldn't want t' bring ye back t' Rukiya lookin' so world weary."

*[*10:50 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*The small smile on Ryleigh's face drops completely and she swirls the drink in her hand. "Yeah..." Ryleigh mumbles to her glass.

*[*10:52 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*Urrak leans forward on the bar, resting on her arms. Her eyes scan Ryleigh's face "Ok. What's goin' on? Y've been sour fer awhile now. Ain't like ye."

*[*10:54 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"I'm not being sour, I'm just contemplative," Ryleigh says defensively. "I aged 20 years in a matter of moments, Urrak. I'm entitled to be a little upset about it."

*[*10:58 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Contemplative. Sure. How about ye contemplate lookin' me in the eye an' sayin' that?" she drops her tone to a low rumble. "I know ye better than ye think I do, Ry. There's somethin' more."

*[*11:01 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh swallows at the emotion building her throat, "You married an elf, knowing you'd die first, knowing that you would love her all of your days but that she wouldn't love you all of hers." She finally looks at Urrak, "I...it didn't...I just realized that I'm going to die before Rukiya...I'm going to leave her and I promised..." Ryleigh clears her throat and takes a drink to ease the dryness.(edited)

*[*11:09 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Oh, gods, Ry..." she wraps an arm around her shoulders, giving her a half-hug. "It's outta yer control. It's...just how things are." she rubs her back and folds her arm back onto the bar. "It's tough fer sure. And fer them it's...almost cruel. No one wins." she runs her tongue across her teeth, thinking. "But it ain't like ye lied, Ry. And surely she realized the same."

*[*11:17 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"She's been left before and I promised her I would never leave her in that kind of loneliness. I told her that the night we kissed, the night we...we became more...what if..." Ryleigh angrily wipes tears from her face, "It's all built on a lie now..."

*[*11:19 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Hey," Urrak places a hand beneath her chin and turns Ryleigh's face to her. "Tell me something, will ye?"

*[*11:20 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh bites her lip and nods.

*[*11:21 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Do ye love her?"

*[*11:21 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"Of course I do," Ryleigh says like that's a ridiculous question.

*[*11:22 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Do ye want t' be with her? Knowing what you know."

*[*11:24 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh thinks about that question for a few moments. She takes a drink and looks at the liquid in her cup, "I do, but not if it hurts her."

*[*11:32 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Well Ry, that's somethin' ye can't promise. That's somethin' outta yer hands. But love....that's one ye can keep." she rubs her face, hiding the tears that threaten to leave her eyes "Ancy was so worried. She...didn't think she was strong enough t' watch me wither away. But, ye know me, I'm stubborn as all hells, and eventually, she came around. She was always about livin' fer th' moment. Fer th' *'right now'.* Easy t' say when ye can live t' see the end of an Era..." she shakes her head "B-but it's true. Ye can't worry about th' future. Ye'll only waste th' present."(edited)

*[*11:38 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh reaches out to take Urrak's hand, "I'm sorry for bringing all this up...I know it can't be easy - loving Ancy even though she's gone, and loving Malica even though you feel you shouldn't."(edited)

*[*11:47 AM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Aye it's...a mess. But, what can I say? Been a mess my whole life." She squeezes her hand and lets it go. "But Rukiya, she's not some naïve young girl. She'll understand. And as long as ye love her, *truly* love her, then that's the only thing ye need. No promises, no oaths, nothin' on this plane or th' others can change that. Only th' two o' ye."

*[*11:55 AM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"She's my best friend, the first person I've trusted in a long time, and now she's...more. We have our duties and we have our secrets..." Ryleigh swirls her drink once more. "I'll have to tell her when we get back. Of course, if Kendall can't reverse this," She motions to her face, "then...well," Ryleigh shrugs. "Thanks for talking with me Urrak..Dawnbringer told me that Rukiya would understand too..."

*[*12:01 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Sounds right familiar." Urrak chuckles softly and downs her drink. "I know it's hard fer ye t' get outta yer head, Ry. But listen t' yer...sword. It's all gonna be ok. We'll get yer baby face back, Rukiya'll understand, and when we go back t' that godsforsaken cave, we'll send that ghost back t' whatever hell it came from." she smiles lopsidedly at her. "You should get some rest. Ain't easy bein' this old."(edited)

*[*12:05 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh rolls her eyes and says, "I don't want to go back. We did what we were sent to do, we found the forge, we have a few weapons with the Durgendin's mark, and we mapped most the dungeon. Connell can send someone else to die, but it isn't going to us."(edited)

*[*12:11 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Oh thank fuck I did *not* wanna go back t' that fuckin' cesspit. I just figured ye'd be a real type-A an' wanna finish what we started." she laughs loudly, surely startling the folks behind her, "Fuck that place. Those fuckin' purple ass dwarves can have it." she takes her one silver loc in her hand and twists it about "All th' coin in th' world won't be worth nearly crumblin' int'a dust..."

*[*12:14 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"I like to do the job right, but there will never be any amount of treasure or any reward that outweighs the value of our lives. You should know that about me by now."

*[*12:18 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"Aye, I suppose I should. " she rubs her arm absentmindedly "So...any o' that help ye?"

*[*12:21 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh gives Urrak a sly smile, "I'm afraid you're learning my deflection tactics too. Better stop trying to learn all my secrets Urrak, I'd hate to have to kill you."

*[*12:28 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"I'd like t' see ye try, tin can." She returns the grin and stands. "Well, even if it didn't, at least ye got t' talk about it. I think I even saw a true emotion or two. So hey, progress." she stretches, hands behind her head and yawns. "As fer me, some o' that curse is clingin' t' me bones. Hopefully gettin' some real sleep'll help." she adjusts her sword belt and picks her pack up from the ground. "Good night...day? Eh, whichever. See ya Ry."(edited)

*[*12:30 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*"See you later, Urrak."

*[*12:31 PM*]*Kelsey - Urrak*:*"And hey," she starts walking backwards towards the steps "Try not t' worry so much. It'll give ye wrinkles!" she turns, laughing at her own dumb joke and heads up.

*[*12:35 PM*]*Nicole - Ryleigh*:*Ryleigh rolls her eyes as Urrak leaves.

## Session 60

[1:55 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh leaves the others after they talk to Connell, heading to Whispers HQ to find Rukiya.

He sets them to sparring before approaching you. "Have something new for me already? Wasn't expecting much from the official adventurer."

[2:02 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: “Here I was hoping you had some important mission for me.” Ryleigh grins, “Just got back from a paid quest from Connell Barham. That man is a fool, but it was good coin and hopefully it will give my merc guild a good name with the nobles. I’m actually here looking for Rukiya...”(edited)

[2:03 PM] DM: "Can check her bunk if you want. You know she's as slippery as anyone. I haven't seen her today, but it doesn't mean she's not here."

[2:05 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh laughs a little, “Very true, well I’ll go check and I’ll see you around Berolt- let me know if you need anything, okay?” She starts to walk away towards the barracks.

[2:07 PM] DM: You know she has a private room here, little more than a closet with a bed, a chest, and a desk lined up on one side and about three feet of walking space on the other. The door's closed.

[2:07 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh knocks on the door, “Rukiya?”(edited)

[2:10 PM] DM: The door opens and Rukiya's standing on the other side, smiling. "Ry? I didn't think you'd be back for another week."

[2:12 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: “Surprise?” Ryleigh smiles too and rubs the back of her neck, a little awkwardly. “We ran into some trouble on the mission and well, yeah...here I am.”

[2:13 PM] DM: "Nothing you couldn't handle, I'm sure." She backs up into the tiny room. "Come on in, share."

[2:19 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh walks in and closes the door behind her. She takes a step into the small room, but continues to stand. “Well, actually...we...” Ryleigh swallows. “We fought orcs, cave monsters, giant lizards, but what did it was the ghost we ran into. He...ummm, cursed three of us...myself included.”(edited)

[2:21 PM] DM: Her eyes skate over Ryleigh's features, like she's looking for damage. "Cursed? You ok?"

[2:24 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: “I am now, thanks to Gunnloda’s cleric friend Kendall. The ghost, it aged us several years, and well...” Ryleigh looks away and bites her lip. “It made me realize something...something about us...something I said to you.”

[2:28 PM] DM: She takes Ry's hand and leans into her line of sight. "Stop being so weird and tell me what's on your mind, Ryleigh."(edited)

[2:34 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: “I lied to you,” Ryleigh sighs. “I...the night we became, us...I promised I wouldn’t leave you in loneliness...”

[2:44 PM] DM: "Ry, I know you love dramatics, but can you just tell me whatever it is you're trying to tell me? You're worrying me."

[3:46 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh squeezes Rukiya's hand and mumbles, "Sorry." She takes a deep breath, finally looking into Rukiya's eyes, before saying, "In 20 years I'm going to have crows feet around my eyes and my blonde hair will be streaked with grey. In 40 years, I'll be an old woman and it'll be difficult for me to get around. And in 60 years, I'll be 80 years old, and lucky if I'm still alive. And you'll only be half way through your life." Ryleigh is quiet for a few moments then says, "One day...I am going to break my promise and I will leave you in loneliness."(edited)

[3:54 PM] DM: Rukiya smiles and puts her other hand on Ryleigh's cheek. "Ry... we have no idea what's going to happen in the next five years, let alone 60. I know you're human." She grins a little and adds, "Nobody's perfect. I just want to focus on what's here and what's right in front of us because who knows what's going to happen later."

[4:02 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh tries to smile, but it only makes it half way, "We're the same age and I just...I forgot that you're going to live longer than me. I...you should have told me how ridiculous I sounded."

[4:05 PM] DM: She chuckles. "Sorry, I was too busy trying not to melt over how romantic my friend was being."

[4:09 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: "Best friend," Ryleigh corrects with a roll of her eyes and a small smile. She finally wraps her arms around Rukiya's waist to pull her close, "You're still ok with this?...with us?"(edited)

[4:13 PM] DM: Rukiya's arms wrap around Ryleigh's neck. "Of course I am. Did you think I wouldn't be?"

[4:22 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: "I wasn't sure if...I thought maybe you'd think we were, I don't know, built on a lie? I know we can't know what the future holds and I also know that this is a what if scenario for you, but its a when for me - because regardless of what the future holds, I'm with you. I just wanted to make sure you still wanted this, knowing you'd have to deal with..." Ryleigh swallows hard and presses her forehead to Rukiya's, "with my inevitable death."

[4:28 PM] DM: "Hey, we are not built on a lie or on a promise. We are built on a foundation of friendship, mutual respect, and love. We are more than dramatic gestures and one-liners." She blinks, frowns, and pulls back a little. "Besides, if anyone's hiding truth here, it's me. You know I have... a past I can't speak of, but you're still here. If you can accept my past, why wouldn't I accept your future?"

[4:40 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: "...because you loved someone before me, someone who left you broken hearted and alone, and I'm determined not to hurt you the way he did. But I unavoidably will - one day, some day. I just..." Ryleigh sighs and half laughs, "I don't know."

[4:45 PM] DM: "It's my choice. We've talked about it and as long as you're not throwing yourself into impossible battles because you think your death will solve all your problems, I am willing to choose you... no matter what comes in the future. If I choose you and you choose me, everything else will work itself out."

[5:00 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: "I was just making sure you were still willing to choose me, L'auorphiem." Ryleigh dips her head, their breath the only thing between them. Unsure, she stays there, Rukiya’s lips so close to hers. And Ryleigh's struck by how much she's missed this: her kiss, her touch, the push and pull of Rukiya’s hands, but still she doesn't kiss Rukiya - Ryleigh's letting her make that decision.(edited)

[5:06 PM] DM: She closes the distance, not so much by pushing up but by pulling Ryleigh the rest of the way down, and only stops the kiss long enough to whisper, "I missed you," before continuing it.

[5:12 PM] Nicole - Ryleigh: Ryleigh smiles at Rukiya’s words and brushes her thumb over Rukiya's jaw. She feels like Rukiya has gingerly curled her fingers around Ryleigh’s heart, drawing her into Rukiya’s gravity. “I missed you too,” Ryleigh breathes, before showing her just how much.(edited)

## Session 71

[3:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Comprehension is evident on Ryleigh's face as she pieces everything together. "Your aura. It's pink. It's... it's a mix of tiefling and... and... "

[3:13 PM] Seirixori: "... celestial which... could be a few things, but it could also be..." Seir sighs and shrugs, "Moki said something to me... about the Moonstreams and how they're descendants of... of um... Vyon? Vydea? Shit, whatever god they're associated with. Oh! You should check them, they might have that white -- wait, sorry." Seir shakes her head, "I don't know. I can't stop thinking about it being a possibility and if it is... this whole time I've... why can't they just tell me!?"

## 73- Rukiya's secret revealed

9:03 PM] DM: Ry came back to Riverrun, checked in at the temple, and went to Whispers to look for Rukiya. Berolt told Ry she was on assignment, but that she should be back in a couple hours.

[9:04 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh is going to go wait in her room - assuming the door is unlocked?

[9:04 PM] DM: Even if it wasn't, that wouldn't stop Ryleigh. And Rukiya would've told her that she could always let herself in and wait there if she wanted to.

[9:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: While Ryleigh waits, she's going to change out of her armor (placing it into the bag of holding) and then sit on Rukiya's bed until she returns.

[9:06 PM] DM: And Berolt was right... it's a couple hours of waiting, but the door opens and Rukiya's walking into the small room in a beautiful, shimmering silver dress. When she sees Ry, her face lights up in a beaming smile. "You're back!"(edited)

[9:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh smiles too, equally as excited to see Rukiya. She crosses the small distance and pulls her into a hug. "You look amazing," Ryleigh whispers in her ear.

[9:10 PM] DM: She grins and kisses Ryleigh on the cheek. "I'd hope so. This dress is expensive." She leans back, holding onto Ry's shoulders and lets her eyes look over her. "No random curses or aging or missing limbs this time?"

[9:14 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Not this time." Ryleigh's hands drop to Rukiya's hips, keeping her close. "I have to admit, I had too many close calls - between getting arrested, running from a dragon, and fighting a unstable magic wielder on an island of dead gods... it was quite a trip."

[9:15 PM] DM: "Sounds like more fun than dinner parties. Tell me all about it?"

[9:21 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh does, explaining everything from immediately getting arrested in Limagante and nearly killing Ravaphine, to sailing to a mysterious island to capture a man in order to release Ravaphine's mom. "I... I think you were right. When the captain made me attack Ravaphine, I was completely out of my own control. I'm starting to believe that it's not me... I mean, it is, because it's always me being controlled but..." Ryleigh sighs.

[9:23 PM] DM: She puts her hand on Ry's cheek like she's about to say something soft and reassuring, then she smirks and says, "I'm always right." But then her expression does soften again. "I'm sorry you had to experience it again, but at least it gave you some insight? Maybe it'll help you heal."

[9:29 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: She rolls her eyes at Rukiya's first comment, but then replies sincerely, "I hope so. I still struggle with dark thoughts, but I think I'll always have them." Ryleigh's hand gently cups Rukiya's jaw, before she leans in to kiss her - realizing quite suddenly how much she's missed the other woman.

[9:32 PM] DM: Rukiya melts into the kiss and moves to deepen it, then says, "So you wanna help me out of this dress or no?"

[9:36 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yes," Ryleigh says, grinning against Rukiya's lips as her hands begin to search for a way to get the dress off, but just as they find the clasp Ryleigh remembers she wanted to have another conversation and freezes.

[9:37 PM] DM: Rukiya looks up at her. "Did you get lost? It can just mean helping me out of my dress. It doesn't have to go anywhere else."

[9:40 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's not that I don't... I mean you look beautiful and I miss being close to you..." Ryleigh swallows hard "...but I need to talk to you about something first, and I don't want to do it here. There are... too many ears."(edited)

[9:42 PM] DM: Rukiya pulls her down for a kiss, then turns around. "Ok... then actually help me out of the dress and we can go talk."

[9:47 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh places a tender kiss to the back of Rukiya's neck before helping her get out of the dress.

[9:49 PM] DM: She changes into her more common dark clothing and boots, but forgoes her armor. At some point, unless Ryleigh was pointedly not paying attention for some reason, she'd see Rukiya pull the leather strap she usually wears around her neck from one of her hidden dagger sheaths and she re-ties it around her neck with her back to Ry, dropping it down the front of her shirt.

[9:49 PM] DM: And she follows Ry out and to her apartment.

[9:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: While leading them to her apartment, Ryleigh takes Rukiya's hand in hers, only letting it go to open and close the door once they reach her apartment.

[9:59 PM] DM: Once inside, she takes Ry's hand. "So what's so secret? Or," she teases, "were you just embarrassed to let the others hear you?"(edited)

[10:00 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh blushes, pushing her free hand into her hair while saying, "No one is ever going to let me live it down that I'm verbal in bed, are they?"(edited)

[10:03 PM] DM: Rukiya laughs. "It's not a bad thing. I enjoy it, actually."

[10:08 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Gods." Ryleigh's blush deepens further, before she pulls Rukiya into a kiss, but its... different. Almost like Ryleigh is trying to savor it in case this might be their last.

[10:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: She reluctantly pulls away from the kiss, but continues to hold Rukiya in her arms. "I need to ask you something and you... might not like it."(edited)

[10:18 PM] DM: Rukiya sighs. "Ok, you caught me. I work for a secret organization called Whispers." She smiles again, then puts a finger against Ry's jaw. "You're so serious tonight."

[10:21 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's eyes bounce between each of Rukiya's. "I wish we could just have a normal reunion for once, but it seems like every time I leave something makes me think of you or us and then when I get back, I want to see you, talk to you about everything... I know we're together now, but... you're my best friend too."

[10:23 PM] DM: "I don't see a problem there."

[10:30 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's not a problem, *l'auorphiem*. It's one of the reasons why I'm in love with you. I guess... what I mean is, I'm afraid of losing you because of what I need to ask." Ryleigh nervously shifts. "While I was gone, something came up with Seirixori that reminded me of you."

[10:32 PM] DM: There's a touch of something in her eyes before she tries to cover it with a smirk and humor, but she looks like, for once, she's speechless. She just manages an, "Oh?"

[10:38 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I can use my divine magic to sense if someone has celestial, fiend, or undead aura's. Seirixori's is pink, obviously she's a tiefling so it should be red, but it's not, because she's part celestial - which she didn't know." Ryleigh pauses, taking a deep breath before she says, "Do you know that you have a celestial aura?"

[10:42 PM] DM: All the humor in her expression fades. "I... don't know how to answer that."

[10:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Rukiya, why do you have a celestial aura?"

[10:52 PM] DM: Rukiya looks down and away, like she's trying to think of an answer... or avoiding Ryleigh's eyes.

[10:55 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh reaches out, cupping her cheek and gently trying to nudge Rukiya's eyes back to hers. "I told you once before that there was nothing you could tell me that would make me love you less."(edited)

[10:56 PM] DM: She whispers, "You don't know that," like she's afraid of the truth in the statement. "You don't know what you're asking me, Ryleigh. Please..."

[11:03 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh withdraws the dagger from her hair and places the hilt in Rukiya hand. “Yes, I do know what I’m asking of you.” She moves the point of the dagger to the spot over her heart and says, “Rukiya, I’d rather die by your hand, right here with this knowledge, than live a long life with you continuing to carry this weight alone.” Ryleigh drops her hands, her eyes never leaving Rukiya’s. “If I’m unworthy to share this burden with you, then end it - right here, right now. Because I love you too much to let you suffer alone and I know who you are.”

[11:11 PM] DM: As soon as Ryleigh's hands leave hers, Rukiya immediately lowers the dagger and sets it aside. She looks a bit lost, like she's not sure what to do or think, and there's the echo of what might be regret in the wrinkle of her brow. But she's silent for the moment.

[11:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh waits patiently, fidgeting with her fingers nervously.

[11:19 PM] DM: She's teary-eyed when she speaks again. "I was a fool to think I could have both. It was safer to resist attachments... to not let anyone close enough to learn my secret."

[11:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "You're not a fool. I thought about not bringing this up, but I can't..." Ryleigh sighs "...I know you and I know you'll choose to suffer alone for an eternity; and you don't have to be alone in this. I just want you to let me love you..."(edited)

[11:25 PM] DM: "Tell me what you know." It's meant to be a demand, a way to confirm she's not just being tricked into admission, but it comes out more like a plea.

[11:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh presses forward, not touching Rukiya but still stepping into her space. "I know you have white aura, which means you have celestial ancestry and the Moonstreams are supposedly descendants of Vydea."

[11:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know you were born in Vyon, but your mom is from Shetai, where Queen Nyota's from." Ryleigh reaches out to take Rukiya's hand, but pulls back at the last moment.

[11:34 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Finally, she whispers, "You were afraid of Misha recognizing you when we were in Bellbury... because... you're one of them aren't you?"

[11:37 PM] DM: She waits another few seconds then adds in a whisper. "And what you suspect?"(edited)

[11:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I think," Ryleigh runs her hands up Rukiya's arms, "you're the lost prince of Vyon."

[11:50 PM] DM: She kind of winces. "It's not who I *am*."

[11:54 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's who you were..."

[11:59 PM] DM: "Ryleigh... please. If word gets out... it could be disastrous for Vyon. I... I don't want to lie to you and... it would be pointless now anyway." Tears are threatening to fall. "Please..."

[12:11 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes Rukiya's face in her hands, forcing eye contact. "I'm an Asten. I'm a Whispers. I'm anti-establishment and your family *is* the establishment." She presses their foreheads together before saying, "And I am still in love with you, Rukiya. I still choose you. I still want you. I won't lie - I have some questions and we may not always agree when it comes to this, but I swear to you, I'll protect you and by extension this secret too."(edited)

[12:15 AM] DM: She closes her eyes, knocking the tears from their precarious position and she nods just slightly enough that Ry can feel it in her hands. "Please don't make me have to choose between you and Vyon."

[8:18 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh hums a melancholy tune, casting circle of truth around them, before kneeling and taking Rukiya's hands in hers. "By Asten, I will be faithful and true to you, and love all that you love. I cannot shun that which you shun, for I believe we will differ there, but I will, according to Asten's law, and according to my own principles, never, by will or by force, by word or by work, bring you harm. I pledge this to you, until my body is broken, the breath leaves my lungs, and even if you see it fit to release me from this oath."(edited)

[10:37 AM] DM: Rukiya falls to her knees and wraps her arms around Ryleigh's shoulders, crying into Ry's neck. "Why? Y-you don't even know. How can you be so sure?"

[2:55 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I know you don't do things without reason, and I hope that one day we can talk about your reasons." Ryleigh's arms wrap around Rukiya, keeping her close. "I'm not sure this is the right thing to do, but Rukiya, I know that I love you. I've already lost so many people that I love, and it was always out of my control. This time it is too, because I can't make you stay, I can't make you confide in me, and I can't make you love me, but I'll be damned before I let someone else I love go without fighting for them stay."

[3:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: A few sobs escape from Rukiya as she clings to Ryleigh. Eventually, Ryleigh lifts the woman and carries her to the nearby bed. She settles them onto it, cradling Rukiya close while gently rubbing small circles across Rukiya's back and some whispered reassurances in between humming a soft, soothing melody.