Session 45

Back - Next

This session was played on January 3, 2018. It lasted eight hours, 26 minutes.

## Trivia

* Spells cast: 2 (Seir- wild cunning and goodberry)
* Most common spell: Wild Cunning/Goodberry
* Most spells cast: 2, Seir

## Transcript

*[*5:00 PM*]* DM*:* So Safika, Gunnloda, Urrak, Bri, and Rav are here as well as Nolanos who is deep in his rituals to identify the magical items you all found.

*[*5:09 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak watches Ryleigh leave, shifting her gaze quickly when she feels the weight of Safika's presence now that she's gone. She shifts awkwardly and begins to dig through her bag. She pulls out the small statuette and turns it in her hands. The grain of the bone reflects the fire's light.

*[*5:11 PM*]* DM*:* Safika pulls a rag out of a pouch and starts cleaning each of her daggers.

*[*5:11 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda's just staring into the fire, thinking.

*[*5:17 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia isn't a fan of all the tension hanging over everyone so she pretends to sleep for a bit.

*[*5:11 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav, not being able to sleep just yet, props her head up on her arms. "What you got there, Urrak?"

*[*5:16 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Not sure yet, Nolanos found it in th' keep. Looks...gods maybe second era Elvish? Been awhile since I been in the trade, but y'see here?" she points with her pinkie to the statue's decorated sheild "These patterns, they look real similar t' a well known family's seal. Ancy knew more, much more but...well I picked up some things 'ere and there." she laughs softly to herself. "She once forged one o' these y'know. Sold it for a killin' t' some guildmaster I was hired t' guard durin' a negotiation--th' dullard. That's..." she grips the item tight "That's how I first met 'er actually..."(edited)

*[*5:21 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "It looks very intricate. Is she...is she still alive?" Rav asks softly(edited)

*[*5:25 PM*]* Urrak*:* "S'far as I know...though I'm not sure. Malica...she saw her not too long ago, in Alderaath. Said she was looking into somethin' real dangerous, a group o' vampires called the Gray. That's why I was researchin' them in Riverrun, but everythin' I found was pretty basic knowledge. I'm...hopin' she'll help me find out more. Honestly, it's all just...horribly complicated." She places the statuette back in her bag "Let's just say...I'm not exactly excited t' go back t' Bellbury."(edited)

*[*5:34 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I hope she finds what she's looking for and makes it back safe, but I'm sorry she left you feeling that way" Rav plays with some of the sticks and dirt in front of her. "I don't know what else is left for us to do in Bellbury when we return"

*[*5:37 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Well...if the arch is fixed I guess...We can all just go home. Though I won't be all too happy t' see those robed fucks get all the credit fer puttin' it back t'gether. Especially since we all put our lives on th' line t' get those components but...maybe it's for th' best."

*[*5:41 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav crushes a dirt clod in her hand at the mention of the Spellguards. "It's not fair, but they are the professionals. I would just rather have my fate decided by my own hand, and not others."

*[*5:38 PM*]* Urrak*:* She leans back on her hands "Y'know...I don't think I've ever asked ye, you're from Rodoza, right? What's it like? What did ye do before all this mess?"

*[*5:47 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "It's just been my ma and me. She has a library in Rauvi, and I help maintain the books. We live a generally quiet life, so I feel a little out of place here because it seems like everyone had important jobs back home" she pauses a bit before continuing. "But before I left, she did give me one job. To deliver a package for her. She doesn't know I haven't completed it yet"

*[*5:49 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak searches Ravaphine's face a moment

"Ha, *important*...I haven't had an 'important' job in a long time, Rav. Don't feel too bad. Where...where did ye need it dellivered to?"

*[*5:57 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "You're good at what you do, so I bet it was important! And my ma...she hasn't got much time left. She raised me, you know? A tiny gnome like Poni, and then you have me. After the first few years, I couldn't even fit through her doorways anymore" she smiles at the memory.

*[*5:58 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "She's trying to play catchup with a book that's long overdue. She was in love with an elf too, you know? I guess you both share the same type" Rav chuckles. "But they haven't spoken in centuries because she was almost forced to leave her home, so she wants to make amends before it's too late. I have a book I need to deliver across Rodoza for her. I don't have it in me to read what it says"

*[*6:01 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'm sorry t' hear that, Rav. I hope...no I'm sure you'll get it done. Yer too driven t' not." she smiles at the elf "I cannot imagine how a 3 an' a half foot gnome could wrangle a giant child like y'had t' be." she chuckles a bit at the thought.(edited)

*[*6:07 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I hope we get control of the portal back soon because I'd love for all of you to meet her. She's a fantastic cook, and just...incredibly brilliant. Poni gives wizard gnomes a bad name"

*[*6:07 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Hows your ma? From the last time you poofed back home"

*[*6:12 PM*]* Urrak*:* "She's gettin' up there in years but fine. She's got th' other *Aivdaok* t' look after her. My 'brother' left a few years ago so it's jus' been her for some time. She was as excited as she could be t' see me." she laughs a bit as she speaks, recalling her mother's terse manner "I try an' send her some coin as much as I can. So she can keep eatin' an' stay warm and all that. Though honestly I think she'd beat winter in a fist fight if it ever challenged 'er." she shakes her head "I'd love t' see how yer mum compares. I'm sure she's like a lily t' ol' Sarraj's thistle."

*[*6:17 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "She sounds wonderful." Rav says, with a big ol smile on her face. "No wonder she raised you so tough"

*[*6:17 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I want us all to have a big family dinner. My ma's going to be so thrilled to see all my new friends. Bring your ma, too"

*[*6:18 PM*]* DM*:* Safika mutters under her breath as she slides her last dagger back into place on her belt.

*[*6:18 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "You can come too, Safika. If you don't hate us by the end of this all"

*[*6:19 PM*]* DM*:* She glances up at Rav, surprised to be addressed at all and suddenly wondering if she'd said what she did out loud. "I'm going to be headed back to Riverrun soon, but thanks."

*[*6:20 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav nods, not surprised

*[*6:22 PM*]* Urrak*:* "You an' Ryleigh, a-are ye--" she struggles to words around Safika, afraid to step on the toes of a heavily armed assassin "Are ye in the same line o' work? I mean, I can see yer not a paladin but, workin' fer higher up folks there?"(edited)

*[*6:23 PM*]* DM*:* Safika raises an eyebrow and smirks. "Maybe I am a paladin."

*[*6:27 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Oh yeah? Y'serve his holiness, Asten, as well?." Urrak plays along, though she remains cautious of her words(edited)

*[*6:28 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav just lays there in silence, hoping to not witness a murder tonight

*[*6:29 PM*]* DM*:* She shrugs. "In my own way, I suppose. But no, our paths tend to cross frequently, but she's attached to the Asten temple in Riverrun and I'm more of a freelancer."

*[*6:34 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'm not one t' put too much faith in gods m'self. When yer patron deity doesn't care fer ye like he does his purebred children y'tend to form a grudge. Wouldn't trust a god as far as I could throw 'em." she takes a breath, finally meeting Safika's gaze "'M glad y'came with us. Y'really helped us outta some rough spots. Though, I'm sure after almost bein' sliced in half perhaps yer experience wasn't th' best." she runs her hand over the shaved side of her head nervously

*[*6:39 PM*]* DM*:* "I thought Ryleigh could use an extra pair of hands and these orcs needed to be dealt with. My wounds will heal, but I knew Ry would have my back."

*[*6:40 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Y'can always count on that from Ryleigh." she looks away quickly as if saying the paladin's name was a slur. She coughs awkwardly "W-well thank ye, in any case."

*[*6:46 PM*]* DM*:* She hums an acknowledgment.

*[*6:50 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods and brings her knees up to her chest. She wraps her arms around them and links her fingers. After a short pause she looks across the campfire. "An' you too Gunnloda. Thanks fer comin' back. I know last time was rough on ye in more ways than one."

*[*6:52 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda smiles. "Of course, dear. Nearly paid for that with the fire, but I couldn't let some memories stop me from keeping you all safe."

*[*6:55 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak returns her smile "I'm pretty sure at least half of us idiots would be dead without ye, 'Lo. Yer bravery is much appreciated."

*[*7:01 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda opens her mouth like she was about to say something, but closes it, smiles softly, and nods. "I do what I can."

*[*7:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak notices Gunnloda's odd stutter and sits straight. Her back is a bit slumped as she begins to wring her hands "A-ah I'm sorry...Did I say somthin' wrong again?"

*[*7:07 PM*]* DM*:* "No... just not used to the nickname, I suppose."

*[*7:08 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Gods, right th' nicknames. Shit, I'm sorry, Gunnloda."

*[*7:08 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Going to start calling you The 'Rak"

*[*7:09 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia snorts from where she's still lying down.

*[*7:09 PM*]* DM*:* She waves her hand. "Don't make a fuss about it. Dwarves just love the sounds of their own voices and make everything longer than it needs to be."

*[*7:11 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak gives Ravaphine a look like *I dare you to try it* before returning her gaze to Gunnloda. "I'll keep that in mind, Gunnloda."

## Seiryleigh

*[*5:06 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh heads to where Seirixori walked off. She spots Seir sitting in the ground near the wall and silently takes a seat next to her - taking Seir’s lead.

*[*5:10 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Are you okay?" She whispers and it's clear that she's been crying.

*[*5:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* “I’m...better than I was. I’m still hurt by Urrak’s actions but...” Ryleigh sighs heavily, “it just reminded how much of an outsider I am.”

*[*5:21 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I can help Safika hide her body," she winces realizing she shouldn't know that. "I don't understand how that makes you an outsider."

*[*5:23 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh is quiet for a long time, "You overheard us?" There's no anger in her voice.

*[*5:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Uh, not... not exactly."

*[*5:26 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "What do you mean *not exactly*?" Ryleigh raises an eyebrow.

*[*5:28 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I um..." she clears her throat, "Is it too late to say, yes, I overheard you?"

*[*5:30 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Yes. I'll try not to be angry at your answer, but I can't promise I won't be." Ryleigh's voice is firm, but still not angry, "in light of everything that's happened...I'll reserve my anger for another day."

*[*5:33 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She's silent for a very long time, almost long enough that you think she won't say anything, "I... I can read lips. So when you walked in with Safika and looked upset I... I wanted to...to make sure you were ok."

*[*5:42 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks puzzled for a moment, "Alright...." She waits a beat, "I appreciate your concern, and I think I will be fine. It's just conversation I don't want to have with Urrak, but it needs to be discussed."

Seirixori*:* "I'll be here if you want to talk about it."

Ryleigh: "Enough about me....are *you* ok?"

*[*5:53 PM*]* "I'm fine." She says almost immediately. Seir sighs moments later, "No." She turns to face Ryleigh, "I... I don't like how they make me feel. Being here, with them. It feels like I'm back with the druids and I can't do that anymore. And I was wondering..." she stops and shrugs, "Well, if you don't mind my company, if maybe I--we-- could help you with whatever your superiors...? ask you to do next?"

*[*5:55 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh face softens at the proclamation, "Seirixori, what is it that they do that makes you feel bad?"

*[*6:04 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She shrugs, smiling sadly, "I try to help... and it feels like they just ignore me. No matter how many times... every time it's like I don't exist. Every time I say something they just keep going and *today*." she huffs, "no one would find them if they got her killed."

*[*6:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "You are ignored a lot, but sometimes you're in animal form and you're not able to communicate properly - not that I'm excusing them. They only listen to me because I'm *scary*" Ryleigh uses air quotes on scary. "I...I'm not sure my superiors will approve of you coming along, but you're always welcome to follow me to Riverrun, you *and* Gunnloda; because I'll be heading back there once the arch is complete." Ryleigh is silent for a few moments, "I'm sorry the others make you feel like an outcast, because you're not. You fit in with them so seamlessly that I envy you. They may not listen to you when they're all stressed, but they cherish you. Gunnloda, Ravaphine, Nolanos, even Brimeia...they do care, you can see it in the way they take care of you."(edited)

*[*6:22 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Urrak, that idiot, she cares for you in her own way. If she didn't, she would have never given you those earrings. Seirixori, I'm not trying to convince you that you're feelings are misplaced, or that you're wrong to want to leave...I just have a different perspective. I'm sorry if I've overstepped."(edited)

*[*6:29 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "How many times would you forgive someone for repeating the same mistake? Because I'm *tired* of letting it go." She sighs and reaches a hand out and gives Ryleigh a small shove, "Does it count if *I* think you fit in? Or at least want you around."

*[*6:35 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Considering most of the party is *still* alive after I've lectured all of them about the level of carelessness they have with their lives....I'd say that I forgive regularly for repeated mistakes." Ryleigh smiles at the shove, "Of course your opinion counts and there are times that I enjoy being around others, except when we're in battle because they're all fools."

*[*6:40 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh sighs and says, "....I've been a loner for a long time. Safika is the only person I've gotten close to since my brother was executed. I think its because shes a loner too. We have to stick together." She offers Seir her hand and there's playful tone in her voice, "what do you say? Should we try to go fit in with those assholes? I mean, they seem to like having us around...or at least you."(edited)

*[*6:45 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir takes it after a moment of hesitation, "Only if you get it through your *thick* head that they *do* like having you around. At least I do. It's nice when someone other than Gunnloda likes me." She teases.

*[*6:51 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pulls Seir into hug, but she does it slow enough that Seir can stop her if she doesn't want one, "Thanks Seir."

*[*6:53 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nods and let's the hug happen, using an arm to reciprocate it. "You mean it though? About letting me...us follow you?"

*[*6:58 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh lets her go, "Of course I do, I can't promise you can always come along with me, but you're always welcome in Riverrun and you'll have at least 1 friend."

*[*7:02 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Thank you." She stands after some silence and holds her hand out to Ryleigh, offering to help her up. "I promised Gunnloda I'd join her 'in a bit', I'm afraid a bit passed a while ago." She chews on her lip, "..thank you for... for showing me what a true friend is."

*[*7:04 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles and let's Seir help her up, "its been a pleasure." She nods to the campfire, "shall we?"

*[*7:09 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nods, taking a step and pauses briefly like she's psyching herself up about it and walks back to the others.

*[*7:11 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh keeps step with Seir as they walk back, "you got this" she whispers before the set into the fire's light.

*[*7:12 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir walks over, taking a seat behind Gunnloda and wrapping her arms around her, she whispers something, the tone is teasing but it isn't in common. She then rests her chin on Gunnloda's head, sighing softly.

*[*7:14 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Welcome back," Brimeia mumbles from her roll.

*[*7:15 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda visibly relaxes and leans back a little into Seir before addressing Urrak again. "It's fine. It's just it sounds a lot like the word for masculine pronouns in Dwarven."

*[*7:17 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Ah, I see. Then definitely not 'Lo, ever again." she blushes with embarrassment and coughs awkwardly to try and hide it

*[*7:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh takes her seat next to Safika and whispers, "I see you didn't have to kill anyone while I was gone." Nudging her shoulder playfully.

*[*7:16 PM*]* DM*:* Safika grins and replies in elvish, *"I'm pretty good at self-restraint."*

*[*7:19 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh quirks an eyebrow and mumbles something back in Elvish, before turning her attention back to the group.

*[*7:23 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Are we splitting all the stuff we found between all of us?" Seir asks suddenly.

*[*7:25 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak looks to Seir quizzically "Oh, aye th' loot. Yes, I think that's the deal we've all come t'. Safika as well."(edited)

*[*7:26 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Well, I'd certainly like a share. Could use a nice weapon if we ever find one in a smithy or shop."

*[*7:27 PM*]* DM*:* Safika shakes her head. "Don't worry about me. I got what I came for."

*[*7:28 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Are you sure?"

*[*7:29 PM*]* DM*:* She laughs. "That's not usually the reaction I hear when I tell someone I don't want their money."

*[*7:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm also alright, you guys. I didn't come for loot, I just wanted to make sure the people of Bellbury weren't threatened.

*[*7:30 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Where...did the other orcs go though? Do you think they just left without a fight?"

*[*7:30 PM*]* DM*:* Nolanos finishes up his rituals, explains what all the magic items are for, takes the goggles and the scale mail and falls asleep.

*[*7:31 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "If you say so," Seir mumbles asking for the bag of holding so she can divvy up the money.

*[*7:33 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh addresses Ravaphine, "I think we killed all the Orcs that were left. Maybe some fled."

*[*7:33 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Orcs don't flee." Urrak says in a low tone

*[*7:35 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "There you go." Ryleigh says.

*[*7:35 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Somebody moved the bodies to be buried" she says quietly(edited)

*[*7:38 PM*]* DM*:* (273 gp, 5 sp each)(edited)

*[*7:39 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Yes, but we killed the Orcs who gathered the bodies. They likely moved the bodies after we left yesterday."

*[*7:40 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav nods

*[*7:43 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'd say we still be vigilant. I don't trust that those bastards are all gone."

*[*7:45 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "We can take shifts for watch throughout the evening, but I think the rest of us should turn in for the night."

*[*7:48 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I can take th' first shift--" Urrak blurts out a bit faster than she'd meant to(edited)

*[*7:52 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh raises an eyebrow, she was expecting to take first shift but doesn't argue, "Alright...."

*[*7:54 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav looks at the spell scroll and attempts to copy it

*[*7:54 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I can take next, or last. Whichever." Seir murmurs, slowly falling sleep where she is.

*[*7:54 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((21 for detect thoughts))(edited)

*[*8:01 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Only place yer goin' in t'bed by the looks o' ye. Don't worry, we'll wake ye if we need ye." she tries to make sure she doesn't sound too demanding or short.

*[*8:03 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "We'll each take an hour of watch, or we can do it pairs and take watch for 2 hours. Whatever everyone wants to do."

*[*8:09 PM*]* DM*:* However it happens, watches are set and the night passes. Rav gets a new spell, everyone is healed, all your features reset, you get a maximum of two hit dice back, and the sun rises as it has every day for the last 3000 years except that one time nobody talks about.

*[*8:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh starts to wake everyone up.

*[*8:14 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak stirs from her place in her tent. She lifts her head from her make-shift pillow and places the pack on her back. She stands, stretches, and looks around sleepily for straggling orcs before joining the group near the fire.(edited)

*[*8:17 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir gets up slowly, not *quite* as upset as she was yesterday, but she's quiet. Without saying anything she starts the ritual that puts away all their things.

*[*8:19 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda kneels by the fire for her morning prayers.

*[*8:23 PM*]* DM*:* After ten minutes, the spirits come and pack all your stuff back up, take down the orc tents too, and put out the fire. Everyone's up and dressed, Urrak and Nolanos in their spiffy new mithril and Seir in her new leathers.

*[*8:24 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia steps out of her tent and stretches.

*[*8:24 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda finishes her prayers and heads over to Seir. Safika appears from behind one of the walls and heads to Ryleigh. "Nothing in the immediate area."

*[*8:25 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Thanks for checking" She smiles at her. "Alright everyone, are we ready to head out?"

*[*8:26 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Hey want to arrive on a horse and look all fancy and heroic?" Seir asks Ryleigh, grinning just enough to show that she's mostly kidding.

*[*8:28 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh chuckles, "I suppose my black armor isn't fancy *or* heroic looking."

*[*8:28 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Nope, not at all."

*[*8:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Good, it's meant to be intimidating rather than heroic."

*[*8:29 PM*]* DM*:* Safika chuckles. "And here I thought it was to pretend you were stealthy."

*[*8:31 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh's eyes widen in mock surprise, "shhhhh. Stop telling all my secrets." She jokes.(edited)

*[*8:31 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just snorts, "Well, anytime you want to do either, I'm sure it can't hurt." She turns to Gunnloda, watching her for a few moments. "Did you want to walk this time?"

*[*8:32 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda smiles. "I wouldn't mind walking, love."

*[*8:34 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Okay, let me know if you change your mind." She starts forward and then stops suddenly, "Oh! I forgot I wanted to have you try something." she mumbles as she waves her hand and mutters under her breath and eight berries appear in her hand. "Here." She hands one to Gunnloda, "Just... you know, future reference I guess?" She then hands a berry to everyone else and tells them to eat it.

*[*8:36 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Thanks Seir," Nolanos smiles. "What is it?"

*[*8:36 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "A berry." She deadpans.

*[*8:37 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She winces, "Sorry, um, just food? It'll keep you for the whole day."

*[*8:37 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pops it into her mouth and chews.

*[*8:37 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak eats the berry, chewing as she straightens her belts out

*[*8:37 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "That's pretty cool." Brimeia downs it all in one go.

*[*8:39 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Neat," he says, intrigued. He pops the berry in his mouth. "Tasty too."

*[*8:39 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "You always surprise and take care of us, Seir" she looks anywhere but at Seir. "Even when we don't deserve it" she says softly.

*[*8:39 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav tosses the berry up in the air and catches it in her mouth(edited)

*[*8:36 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda eats it, then hugs Seir around her waist.

*[*8:39 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda whispers a thank you to Seir.

*[*8:40 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Aye, thank ye."

*[*8:40 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh watches them all with a smile on her face, she *knew* they cared about Seir.

*[*8:41 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just shrugs at Ravaphine's words, not up to discussing it right now, "Yeah..." She hugs Gunnloda and whispers to her before addressing the group again, "Shortcut or the way we took back?"(edited)

*[*8:43 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'd prefer a shortcut, but we can take the road if need be."

*[*8:43 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "I agree, the shortcut sounds good."

*[*8:44 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "I didn't think we were in a hurry. How much time would we save?"

*[*8:44 PM*]* DM*:* There is no "road". It's still through the woods.

*[*8:45 PM*]* DM*:* It's through the woods to the road between Riverrun and Bellbury.

*[*8:47 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Hurry or not, I'd still rather take the shorter way back." ((14))(edited)

*[*8:48 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos nods in agreement.

*[*8:48 PM*]* DM*:* You head back and it'll be late afternoon, maybe 5 or 6 when you return. Anything you want to do in the meantime?

*[*8:49 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((no, Seir's *thinking* ))

*[*8:50 PM*]* DM*:* Ok then. You arrive back in Bellbury. Congratulations.

*[*8:52 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir tells Gunnloda to come get her if she's gone for too long and heads for the grove.

*[*8:54 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh announces to the group, "I need to go let Eloise know that we're back and that the keep has been cleared." She turns to Safika, "do you...where are...are you going back to the house or the cask?" she finally gets the words out of her mouth.

*[*8:56 PM*]* DM*:* Safika: "Depends. Do you wanna get away or would you rather stick around here? I'll stay til you get back if you want me to."

*[*8:58 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda heads into the Cask and starts pouring drinks for people since there's no real need for food.

*[*8:59 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak shifts awkwardly in place as she watches Ryleigh and Safika speak. She's unsure of which conversation she's dreading more now that they're back in town.

*[*8:59 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I don't know." Ryleigh taps her chin in thought, "I think I should at least try to be around the others, but if you aren't comfortable you don't have to. I just wanted to know where you'd be once I get back from the mansion."

*[*9:00 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles. "I'll stick around for a bit then. You can let me know how the talk goes."

*[*9:01 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods and gives her a small smile, "alright." And head to Moonstream mansion.

*[*9:01 PM*]* DM*:* Safika heads into the Cask and takes a seat at the bar to wait.(edited)

*[*9:06 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak heads into the Cask, forgoing even *looking* at the bar before heading directly upstairs.

## Urrak at Malica's Room

*[*9:08 PM*]* Urrak*:* She gets to the top of the stairs and heads slowly down the hall, the squeak of the floorboards loud as cannon fire to her ears. She reaches Malica's door, and with a deep breath begins to knock.

*[*9:10 PM*]* DM*:* There's no answer.

*[*9:11 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Malica? Ye there...?" she places an ear on the door to listen for the woman

*[*9:14 PM*]* DM*:* There's no answer. Perception if you wanna.

*[*9:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((nat 1 XD))

*[*9:17 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak presses her forehead to the wood of the door and closes her eyes tight. "Mal, please...are ye in there?"

*[*9:18 PM*]* DM*:* You don't hear anything.

*[*9:24 PM*]* Urrak*: "Sav ad u didkavk kaddh, Urrak, avai lourrav kavo ad vav. Yai lourrav kavo ad dho didk vav. Sho'k kavo, kavo koduiko ad avai, avai didkavk akaad. Yai kokolxo dhak. Yai kokolxo urr ad dhak. Akaad!"* she swears under her breath in orc, trying to force back burning tears. She turns around and slides her back down the wall. When she reaches the floor she rests her head against the door and looks up at the handle. "Mal, please..."

*[*9:25 PM*]* DM*:* Still no answer.

*[*9:31 PM*]* Urrak*:* She closes her eyes tightly and takes a deep breath. She looks to the ceiling of inn, tracing the cracks with her eyes. "...I know. I deserve this. I deserve all of this." she pauses, trying to collect her thoughts, "I...Fuck, Mal--I...well at this point, 'I'm sorry' doesn't mean much at all but..." a sharp breath "Well, y' know..."(edited)

*[*9:41 PM*]* DM*:* Still no answer.

*[*9:43 PM*]* Urrak*:* She sits there for feels like quite a awhile, quietly waiting in silence. She wonders if she stayed here all night, would Malica show up again? If tomorrow felt like a lifetime, how long would a week feel? A month? She slumps forward her eyes focused intently on her interlocking hands. "Alright. I'll...I'll leave ye be then." she waits a few moments more before she starts to stand

*[*9:44 PM*]* DM*:* Nuffin.

*[*9:46 PM*]* Urrak*:* She stands and places a hand on the door handle. She waits a moment, contemplating her options and shakes her head. She tries the handle of the room, an apology on her tongue. just in case.

*[*9:47 PM*]* DM*:* It's unlocked.

*[*9:49 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak pushes the door open, eyes closed. She apologizes in a string of near unintelligible common and freezes about 2 steps into the room. Slowly she opens her eyes. "M-Mal?"

*[*9:49 PM*]* DM*:* The room is much as you left it. Her bag of stuff's still in the corner, but she's not there.

*[*9:53 PM*]* Urrak*:* She takes a few quick breaths to calm herself down. Seeing Malica's bag fills a small pit in her stomach with weak hope. Cautiously, she looks around the rest of the room, not noticing anything out of the ordinary and stops dead center of the rented space. "Bloody hell, Mal, tell me y'haven't..." she looks about, clearly a bit distressed. "*Fuck, please no, Mal* "(edited)

*[*10:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* She runs a hand through her hair and swears again. She turns and slowly exits, closing the door behind her, and walks back downstairs(edited)

*[*9:15 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "So who else is up for a drink?"(edited)

*[*9:15 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia just sighs and plops down on a stool in the Cask. She misses being able to just go downstairs to have a quick fight.

*[*9:16 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda passes out drinks of choice to anyone who wants them.

*[*9:17 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia thanks Gunnloda and takes a swig from her mug.

*[*9:20 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Thanks, friend," Nolanos says, wincing slightly. ...Can he even still call her that? Shaking his head a little, he takes a sip of his drink.(edited)

*[*9:24 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "What've you got there, boyo?"

*[*9:24 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav just sits and sips on her apple juice, contemplating life

*[*9:28 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Oh, it's just a cider. Very tasty though. Want to try some?" He asks, holding out his mug(edited)

*[*9:31 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Sure." Brimeia takes the mug and has a sip before returning it to Nolanos. "Not bad, but I think I still prefer ale."

*[*9:32 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "That's fair, more for me anyway" he chuckles.

*[*9:33 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I have the best drink, care for some?" She holds her glass out

*[*9:34 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "That's true," Brimeia laughs. "What about -- Ah, I was just about to ask, little miss ravashing." She grins. "What is it?" she asks as she takes a sip.

*[*9:35 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav just smiles a toothy grin

*[*9:37 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos leans back a little in his seat, jokingly wary of that grin. "What's in the cup, Rav?"(edited)

*[*9:46 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Well for starters, there's no alcohol in it. Unless you age it a bit, but I like it just the way it is"

*[*9:47 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Sooo, it's juice then?"

*[*9:49 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos laughs, "yeah that sounds about right. Normally, I'd be right there with you without alcohol, to be honest."

*[*9:56 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I can totally hold my liquor!" Rav looks around and empties the closest ale into her mouth. She looks disgusted. "See," she says, while making a face

*[*9:58 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia chuckles. "No one is doubting your ability to hold your liquor. No need to torture yourself." She kisses the side of Ravaphine's scrunched up face, unable to help herself.

*[*10:05 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav gives Brimeia a light peck on the forehead, turns around, and gives one to Nolanos too before putting her arms around both of them. "What else is there to do around Bellbury?" she says, not entirely sober anymore(edited)

*[*10:06 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos's smile grows wider when she kisses him. "Well then."(edited)

*[*10:08 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Not much, as far as I know, but I'm sure there's some things *we* could do." Brimeia grins and winks.

*[*10:07 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak comes down the stairs and joins the group.

*[*10:09 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Gross." Urrak bumps Brimeia playfully with her elbow as she passes. She grabs an ale from the counter and thanks Gunnloda(edited)

*[*10:09 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav moves her arms off of her lovers and attempts to sober up with the rest of the group coming back. She clears her throat(edited)

*[*10:12 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "You're one to talk," Brimeia hollers over her shoulder at Urrak.

## Ryleigh and Eloise

*[*9:04 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks up to mansion.

*[*9:04 PM*]* DM*:* There's no guard.

*[*9:05 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pushes the door open.

*[*9:09 PM*]* DM*:* A man in nice clothing with a Moonstream crest around his neck approaches as you enter. "Good evening. Can I help you?"

*[*9:11 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Yes, I'd like an audience with Baroness Moonstream. She sent me and my comrades on a mission yesterday morning, I'm here to report."

*[*9:12 PM*]* DM*:* "Right, right, the Asten. Forgive me, it's been very hectic around here trying to get things back in order. Wait here a moment, please."

*[*9:13 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "No problem."

*[*9:13 PM*]* DM*:* The man, a half-elf with long blue-ish black hair tied back in a neat ponytail and a bit of a blue tint to his skin, bows slightly and disappears into Eloise's hall.

*[*9:19 PM*]* DM*:* He comes back out a moment later and holds the door open for Ryleigh. "The Baroness will see you now."

*[*9:19 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Thank you." She enters the room.

*[*9:20 PM*]* DM*:* Eloise is sitting at her desk as usual, writing. As you approach, she looks up and smiles. "Good news, I hope?"

*[*9:21 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I try to not bring you bad news" Ryleigh smiles back, "but yes, the keep has been cleared of orcs. Your people are safe - at least from that threat."

*[*9:24 PM*]* DM*:* She stands and walks around the desk. "Unfortunately, we don't always get to choose whether news we deliver is good or bad. Cae filled me in on what she knew. She doesn't remember much of the night, though. I was hoping you might tell me what exactly happened."

*[*9:31 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shows a moment of surprise before she schools her features, she takes a slight bow and says, "of course M'Lady." Ryleigh launches into the story about how they showed up at the keep and found it occupied by orcs, how they battled their way through the enemy inhabited rooms, and finally made it to the room with the cages. "Once Lady Cae transformed she was some kind of hybrid, she could still talk but she doesn't remember anything she said. She nearly broke free from the cage, so we had to subdue her and bind her with ropes. She woke up the next morning a little sore from the bindings, but was otherwise herself."(edited)

*[*9:33 PM*]* DM*:* There's a strange mix of pride and apology on her face. "I'm sure she didn't make it easy for you."

*[*9:34 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Certainly not," Ryleigh chuckles, "but my job is rarely easy so it was no trouble."

*[*9:44 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "The gentleman who let me in, I haven't seen him before. Does that mean that the Spellguard completed the arch and the townspeople are back?"

*[*9:47 PM*]* DM*:* "Dorran? No, he's one of my sister's staff. She sent more people out to assist. The Spellguard are getting closer, but it's not done quite yet. Captain Usan is quite pleased to be back to guard duties and not managing my schedule and household."

*[*9:49 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm sure, he was displeased every time I showed up." Ryleigh's eye widen because that was too casual of a comment, "Is there anything more you needed from me, Baroness?"

*[*9:51 PM*]* DM*:* "No, not specifically, though there is the matter of the reward I mentioned. I'd like to thank the whole group, though. Are they waiting for you back in the Cask?"

*[*9:54 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm honestly not sure, I left before everyone else to come here. I know Seirixori in the grove, but as the for the others....I don't know. If you'd like, I can gather them up and bring them here?"

*[*9:55 PM*]* DM*:* "No need for such formality. I'll come by later. You're all staying there, right?"

*[*9:56 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods, "Yes, M'lady."

*[*9:58 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles and returns to her chair. "That's all for now, then. I'll see you in the Cask before the end of the night."

*[*10:01 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh gives the Baroness a bow and she says, "I'm happy that your family is whole and together. I'll take my leave."

*[*10:03 PM*]* DM*:* She nods.

*[*10:03 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh exits.

*[*10:06 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks into the cask and spots Safika. She moves immediately to her, "Eloise is stopping by here before night falls. She wants to give the group a reward."

*[*10:13 PM*]* DM*:* Safika nods to Ryleigh. "I should probably go before she gets here, but I can stay a little while. Hide behind the bar if she shows up," she laughs. "Everything ok?"

*[*10:16 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh chuckles. "I'd be funny to see you vault over the bar and hide behind it, but I'd rather you not have to do that." She nods, "Yeah, she just wanted to know what happened...the night Cae" Ryleigh looks around and whispers, "changed."

*[*10:17 PM*]* DM*:* Safika nods. "Did you see either of the other two?"

*[*10:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I didn't, but I did tell Eloise that I was happy her family was together. I hope I didn't overstep." Ryleigh rubs the back of her neck.

*[*10:19 PM*]* DM*:* Safika chuckles. "Eloise isn't nearly as stuck up as some of the other Moonstreams. Her sister's the one to watch out for."

*[*10:25 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I've never met Duchess Katarina." Ryleigh says to Safika, "So I'll keep that in mind." She relaxes a little bit.

## Seir and Takara

*[*9:09 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir heads to *her* spot and takes sets both her staff and the trident against a tree. Then she takes off the armor and sits against the tree in her ratty tank-top and pants. She raises a hand, like she's going to hit the tree but just places her palm on the tree instead. She opens her mouth and *talks*.

"You're really different from Mielikki... but I liked talking to her or Findarris and I don't think anyone's really up for talking to me right now. Not like I… Not like I need... want? I love her but she's… She's kept some things from me and I get it. I do. Gods she's been alive a lot longer than I have, so of course she has things that aren't great but how… but it feels like everything could be a lot and I wouldn't know. But she promised to tell me anything I'd I asked but how do I believe that? I want to believe her, I *do* believe her but will there always be a part of me that won't? I don't want that. I'm just so afraid to mess it up that I'll… that I'll be alone again. I'm sorry. I think… I think I miss her. I miss them both. I miss being able to talk to… To either of them. Mielikki always listened. I think. She at least stayed until I was done… sometimes she even responded. Goddess, I almost wish I still lived in a place where everyone hated me. It was easier that way." She takes a deep breath but keeps going.

*[*9:10 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I'm probably just talking to trees right now, but that's okay. I miss my mother. I don't even know what she'd think of Gunnloda. She was so protective of me. There wasn't a lot I could do…I tried but she always knew when I tried to leave… I just want to hug her again. Want to hear her call me dear heart one more time. I miss her so much. I don’t feel like I can talk to anyone here about… about this thing with Gunnloda? It feels weird and they all have stuff going on so I don’t want to bother them. I think Urrak might be the only one who would have any kind of experience and I just don’t want to talk to her about it right now. I wonder if I can go talk to Lin… I would love to talk to Eloise or Cae but… well I burned that option to ash pretty quickly. " She sighs and closes her eyes. "Sorry, I think I said too much."

*[*9:18 PM*]* DM*:* The halfling walks out from behind you and takes a seat next to a nearby tree. "It sounds like you have a lot on your mind."

*[*9:19 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Oh." Seir blinks, actually surprised, "I didn't think... hi." she says a little weakly. "I didn't mean to... take up your time, I just... it helps, saying it out loud."

*[*9:22 PM*]* DM*:* She tilts her head a little and smiles. "You like the comfort of being alone, unburdened by the needs and wants of others, but you don't like being isolated. I can go if you like, though."

*[*9:26 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "No!" she says quickly, loudly. "No," she repeats, quieter this time. "I... would you mind staying? Just... I, you don't have to say anything. I just... there was *some* comfort in Ardabeh and I'd like a little bit of that, if you don't mind."

*[*9:29 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles again and shifts into her truer form, the human-like woman with golden brown skin and long black hair. Wildflowers grow around her and Seir both. "I have nothing better to do at the moment."

*[*9:32 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir smiles sheepishly, "Thank you." She looks around and snorts, "You know, my girlfriend doesn't think you... well gods in general, are real. Well no," She squints, like she's trying to remember the conversation, "She said 'false gods'. She didn't want me to know she thought that way though..."

*[*9:34 PM*]* DM*:* She looks down at herself and presses a finger to her own arm. "I think I'm real." She looks back up and winks.

*[*9:38 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir snorts in laughter, "I've spent enough time with Mielikki to believe you are." She smiles sadly, "Gunnloda, she... I wish I could get her to believe. I don't really know why I want her to, but I don't think telling her I was saved by one when she wasn't would be... a good idea. And here I am upset about her not telling me things..." She stares off into the distance.
After several moments Seir's eyes widen and she looks at Takara, "Hey do you have any caves around here?"

*[*9:40 PM*]* DM*:* "Caves? Not any that are accessible and nearby, no. You'd be better off looking towards the mountains to the west. Why do you ask?"

*[*9:42 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir pouts, "I wonder if I can make one..." she mutters, "I..we.... Well, we got stuck in a prison last week and I took a myconid back with us and they're currently holed up in the basement of the cask and I'd like to give them a real place to stay." Seir shrugs. "I want them to be more comfortable and have more space because I don't know if I can take them back to where they're from."(edited)

*[*9:45 PM*]* DM*:* She thinks for a moment. "How big?"

*[*9:48 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir blinks, "I didn't actually think about that, but um..." She tilts her head, thinking "Three or four rooms big, I guess? I don't really know how much space one myconid needs. It'd be nice to have space to hang out and play with them though."

*[*9:48 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles. "Moki can show you one tomorrow."

*[*9:50 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "You're champion?" Seir asks, excited. "That would be... really helpful. Thank you." She moves like she's going to hug Takara and then stops, "Uh... can I hug you? Is that weird to ask a goddess? Do people hug you? *Can* people hug you?"

*[*9:52 PM*]* DM*:* She does that weird reverse float to her feet thing she did before and steps forward, arms open. More flowers sprout everywhere she walks.

*[*9:54 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir grins and jumps up, hugging Takara tightly, "Thank you." she says again. She giggles as a thought comes to her, "Gunnloda might actually like you if she ever saw your halfling form."

*[*10:00 PM*]* DM*:* "You're welcome. I did tell Mielikki I would keep an eye on you for her. It wouldn't do to send you home with a bad experience of my home."

*[*10:03 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Hopefully she'll be okay that I don't really want to stay there..." Seir mumbles. "And.. thank you for... letting me talk. Did you need anything? Like a task or something? I don't know... saying thank you for... letting me beat up your trees and the cave, I'd like to do something." It starts out strong but as she finishes it gets quieter like she's expecting a no.

*[*10:10 PM*]* DM*:* She takes Seir's chin in her fingers and lifts her face a bit to look at her. "You have a need to act to show your feelings and a need for those acts to be accepted. Very much like Mielikki herself." She lets go with a smile. "Very well, Moki will have a *task* for you tomorrow. But you should know that you shouldn't take a refusal of those acts as a refusal of yourself, especially when those you offer yourself to don't understand the deeper meaning."

*[*10:14 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir blinks away some tears and nods, "Okay. I'll... try." Seir hugs her again, quickly and then heads out. She's almost out of the grove before she runs back, face red, and grabs her things. Then she makes her way to the cask.

*[*10:18 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir walks in, her "new" leather armor draped around her shoulders, and her weapons in either hand. She disappears into the kitchen and comes back out a minute later, leather and weapons missing. She kneels behind Gunnloda and hugs her, "Hello, *tor beag*." Seir says, releasing a relaxed kind of sigh.

*[*10:20 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda hugs Seir's arms around her middle. "Better, love?"

*[*10:21 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir hums a yes. She let's the silence go on for a bit before she whispers, "Will you tell me about it later? This morning...?"

*[*10:23 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda closes her eyes and smiles slightly, almost on reflex. "I will."

*[*10:27 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Oh! I get to meet Moki tomorrow. He's Takara's champion." She does a weird little dance move thing and her tail wraps around Gunnloda's waist. "He's going to show me a cave that maybe Stool can use!"

*[*10:28 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh turns to the group, "Guys, Eloise will be by in a little bit to reward us."

*[*10:28 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Well that's a pleasant surprise."

*[*10:28 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods and drains her flagon of ale.

*[*10:29 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir grips Gunnloda slightly tighter at the announcement, "Uh do we all have to be here?"

*[*10:31 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "She specifically asked that our entire group be present. But don't worry Seir, we have your back."

*[*10:32 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Hey, you brought back the Lady's wife safe and sound and cleared out a dangerous camp, so I don't think anyone'll be angry with you."

*[*10:34 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir lets out a heavy sigh and nods. "I didn't do any of that alone," Seir rolls her eyes, "I could have done nothing for all they know." She starts muttering to herself, it's too soft to make out by anyone but Gunnloda. Probably.

*[*10:37 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda just pats her hand. "Don't punish yourself so much. Especially when others are willing to do it for you."

*[*10:42 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Okay, *tor beag*."

*[*10:42 PM*]* DM*:* She reaches up and grabs two mugs, one ale, one water, and says to everyone, "Shall we sit at a table to wait? It'll be easier to talk than the bar."

*[*10:44 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Sounds fine to me."

*[*10:44 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Aye, lets." she walks over and takes a seat

*[*10:44 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav follows

*[*10:44 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh hesitates to get up, but does and follows the others to a table.(edited)

*[*10:46 PM*]* DM*:* Safika will follow. "Don't get weird on my account."

*[*10:47 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir groans as she stands, "Oh I did that for too long." She takes a seat next to Ryleigh.

*[*10:48 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda sets the water in front of Seir and keeps the ale for herself as she sits on Seir's other side.

*[*10:49 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir frowns when she realizes she can't rest her head where she wants, so she opts for putting an arm around Gunnloda instead.

*[*10:49 PM*]* DM*:* Safika leans forward on her elbows. "So, what's next for your plucky little band of adventurers?"

*[*10:51 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I get to meet Moki and find a cave!" Seir says excitedly to Safika, too excited to realize she should explain herself.

*[*10:52 PM*]* DM*:* Safika laughs. "I'm sure that's very exciting news."

*[*10:53 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh takes a drink of water and laughs lightly into her cup at Seir's outburst.

*[*10:53 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Who's Moki?"

*[*10:54 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Are they related to Loki?"

*[*10:55 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Who?" Seir asks, but quickly brushes it off, "I... okay I don't really know who Moki is. Takara said Moki was her champion and that they would show me to a cave tomorrow that might be a good place for Stool!"

*[*10:57 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Stool is finally getting a permanent home? How'd you manage that?"

*[*10:57 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "That's awesome, Seir. Stool is that myconid you were telling me about, right?"

*[*10:58 PM*]* DM*:* Safika: "Wait, you know Takara?"

*[*10:58 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Yes! They were with us at the dinner. I don't think you really talked to them much though." She nods to Safika. "Uh.. yes?" her voice raises in pitch near the end.

*[*10:59 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Seirixori actually talks to the Gods, neat huh?" Ryleigh says to Safika.

*[*11:00 PM*]* DM*:* Safika raises an eyebrow. "Talks to gods, changes into dinosaurs. Is there anything you don't do?"

*[*11:01 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles broadly at Safika's comment, but is watching for Seir's reaction.

*[*11:01 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Sneaking, perhaps," Brimeia chuckles.

*[*11:02 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir glances at Gunnloda at Ryleigh's comment and then blushes at Safika's, "Um... that... you... dance?" Seir finishes lamely.

*[*11:04 PM*]* DM*:* For what it's worth, Gunnloda is just kind of drinking her ale, keeping a faint smile on her face. If nothing else, she's happy to see Seir happy.

*[*11:06 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I also really don't do balance well." She says as an after thought from Brimeia's comment.

*[*11:08 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Dancing is something anyone can be good at, with practice....and the right partner."

*[*11:09 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda chuckles into her mug. "Sorry, love. You'd be better off finding someone taller for that."

*[*11:11 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I think I'll manage." Seir's tail wraps itself around Gunnloda again. She shrugs, "I think I'll stick to the animals and the ...gods."

## Eloise

*[*11:13 PM*]* DM*:* The door opens and Eloise walks in, followed by Dorran, the slightly blue half-elven man, carrying a box. She walks towards your table.

*[*11:13 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir sinks in her set.

*[*11:14 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh stands at her arrival and gives her a slight bow, "Baroness" before taking her seat again.

*[*11:17 PM*]* DM*:* She tilts her head in acknowledgment of Ryleigh's courtesy then addresses everyone. "It's rare for someone in my position to have reason for a true celebration, but if we still had a town's worth of people, I would have arranged one. As it is, I'm afraid most of my town will be lost, and I'm not sure what will happen when Qarius finishes the arch, so I wanted to make sure you were all properly thanked and rewarded before that happens."

*[*11:17 PM*]* DM*:* She turns to Ryleigh. "Is this everyone?"

*[*11:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Yes, M'lady. Everyone's here."

*[*11:21 PM*]* DM*:* She nods and looks over the table. "Qarius doesn't know what will happen once the arch is complete either, as far as you all are concerned. Whether you will be trapped here or if you will be taken back to your original places of origin."

*[*11:21 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir makes a face.

*[*11:22 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around the table at her comrades, her brow furrowed slightly.

*[*11:22 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Quite th' question..." Urrak mumbles to herself

*[*11:24 PM*]* DM*:* She opens the box and pulls out a stack of papers, each about 2" by 6". "To help you get where you need to go, should it be necessary, I've arranged for each of you to have two tickets redeemable at the Riverrun teleportation circle. There are few such circles in the world, but partway home is better than nothing, I think, and you may be able to arrange for further passage from there."

*[*11:26 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos looks slightly conflicted, but stays quiet.

*[*11:26 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Thank ye, Baroness. That's mighty kind o' ye."(edited)

*[*11:28 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just nods in agreement with Urrak for the sake of acknowledging the gift.

*[*11:30 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Huh. So we could go anywhere?"

*[*11:31 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* “This is wonderfully generous of you, Baroness. Thank you”

*[*11:32 PM*]* DM*:* "You've all," she looks pointedly at Seir, "done my family a great service. You weren't asked to help my people or to rescue me from a slave's fate, or my wife or daughter. You just did. It's... regrettable that we could not do more, but my family would not be here today if not for all of you and for that, I cannot thank you enough."
She reaches into the box and pulls a small bit of metal from it, a little larger than a coin. It has the Moonstream symbol on it. "Though it is in no way equal to the value of my family, I would like to offer you each a token that will be a symbol of our gratitude."
She holds it out to Ryleigh first, the coin in one hand and her other hand outstretched.

*[*11:34 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh stands again and takes the coin with another slight bow. She straightens and grasps Eloise's hand, "I'm happy we could help, family is important." She offers Eloise a smile.(edited)

*[*11:37 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "You're a wonderful leader, one this land is extremely lucky to have. Helping is the least any of us could do. Thank you for everything."(edited)

*[*11:38 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles at Ryleigh, then pulls another coin from her box to hand to Nolanos, offering him her hand as well. "Thank you for your kind words and your efforts here."

*[*11:41 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos smiles and shakes her hand as well, giving a small nod.

*[*11:41 PM*]* DM*:* She takes another and hands it to Brimeia, offering her hand again. "I hope you find the fight you're looking for."

*[*11:43 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia's a little surprised by the statement, but she smiles and shakes the Baroness's hand. "Thank you, Lady Moonstream."

*[*11:46 PM*]* DM*:* She takes another to hand to Ravaphine. "I'm afraid I didn't see much of your skill, but I'm sure you're an invaluable part of the team as well."

*[*11:50 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* She looks kind of sad, but shakes it off. “Thank you, baroness. I’m learning new things every day.” She reaches for her hand.

*[*11:52 PM*]* DM*:* She shakes Rav's hand with a smile, then holds another out to Urrak. "Your idea to use yourself as a weapon was... risky, but it paid off in the end. I hope your luck holds."

*[*11:53 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos discreetly nudges Rav and gives her a questioning glance, concerned.(edited)

*[*11:53 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I hope so too." she smiles at Eloise "Thank ye, Baroness."she takes the coin and shakes her hand

*[*11:56 PM*]* DM*:* She keeps walking around the table, Dorran following her, and she hands one to Gunnloda, who shakes her hand and takes it. "I was glad to hear of your return. I'm sure your magic was much appreciated."
Gunnloda just nods and smiles her thanks.

*[*11:59 PM*]* DM*:* She reaches into the box again and holds one out to Seir, offering her hand. "It's not just my thanks, but my apologies I'd like to offer to you. What you did... it was a mistake, no question, but our reaction to it was excessive. Your actions before and since, and the company you keep, show your character better than that one event did. Your probation is clear and you are free to do as you will."

*[*12:03 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir's been nervously scratching at the cup of water she's had, so that when Eloise holds out her hands Seir almost knocks it over in the process of getting to her feet. Her face reddens and she takes the hand and coin offered. "I...I can stay here?" She whispers, then her eyes widen, "I mean... um. Thank you." and she quickly sits back down, groaning into her hands.

*[*12:04 AM*]* DM*:* Eloise chuckles, but tilts her head to get a better look at the necklace she saw when Seir jumped up. She looks at Gunnloda. "Yours?" When Gunnloda nods, she replies, "We should talk."

*[*12:06 AM*]* DM*:* She moves forward to Safika, reaching into the box again, but Safika interrupts. "I'm not actually part of their group, Baroness."

Eloise stops short, but finishes pulling the coin out anyway. "Oh, that's... I'm sorry, have we met before? You look very familiar."

*[*12:08 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shifts nervously in her seat and hopes no one notices. She also glances at Safika, trying to determine how uncomfortable the woman is by the question.(edited)

*[*12:09 AM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak watches their interaction, a quizzical look on her face. She pays close attention to how Eloise reacts.

*[*12:10 AM*]* DM*:* Safika doesn't seem fazed by the question at all. She just says, "No, though you did see me here in the morning before we left."

*[*12:11 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh relaxes a little once she realizes Safika is fine. She takes a drink from her cup to compensate.(edited)

*[*12:18 AM*]* DM*:* Eloise looks at her for a moment longer, then seems to accept that statement. She turns to everyone else again, then pulls a pouch from her box and sets it on the table. "Finally, a monetary compensation for the work you've done, both attempting to fix Mr. Ningel's problem, my wife's issue, and ridding the town of the orcs. Again, it seems paltry in comparison to what you've done for us, but I'm afraid my ability to offer rewards is limited."

*[*12:20 AM*]* DM*:* "That said, for those of you who are remaining in the area after the arch is completed, I would be happy to arrange a meeting with my sister in Riverrun and get you set up in a residence there. I think it will be some time before Bellbury has recovered, if ever." Her face falls a bit, saddened by the thought, but she forces a smile for you all and finishes up, "Thank you all, again. Is there anything else I can do for you tonight?"

*[*12:20 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir grabs for it and puts it away before anyone can say otherwise.(edited)

*[*12:23 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Thank you, Baroness." Ryleigh smiles at her, then looks around the table, "I think we're good."

*[*12:25 AM*]* DM*:* Eloise smiles again and takes her leave. Dorran hurries to open the door for her, and they depart.

*[*12:25 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir quickly takes out her portion of the reward and fumbles her way after Eloise.

## Seirloise

*[*12:32 AM*]* DM*:* Seir can follow Eloise here.

*[*12:35 AM*]* Seirixori*:* "Eloi-- Baroness?" Seir calls out as she races to catch up, nearly tripping over herself as she goes. "Ugh, feet why."

*[*12:35 AM*]* DM*:* They both stop, just outside the Cask. Eloise waves Dorran on and he returns to the mansion. "Yes?"

*[*12:38 AM*]* Seirixori*:* "I know... I don't... there's..." Seir groans and takes a moment to breathe and center herself as best she can. "Is Misha okay?" she asks, slightly taken back by her own question, but it gives her time to try and put together what she really wants to say.(edited)

*[*12:47 AM*]* DM*:* Eloise takes a moment to consder her answer. "She is. Or will be." She sighs. "There's a small part of me that is happy you seem to still feel guilty. I've noticed how you try to make yourself small or leave the room entirely when I enter. And it's true you hurt her. But she's... yesterday was her birthday. I don't know how many more of those I'd have gotten to spend with her had we not learned about that ring. I don't know how many more Cae will have with her. And I can't ignore that you were the one who got us out of the drow prison. Cae told me you were the biggest reason she came back from that prehistoric land. Your friends vouch for you." She reaches up and stops just shy of touching the crest at Seir's neck. "And I have good reason to trust their judgment."

*[*1:00 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir looks down at her hands, "I'm... if she let's me, could I apologize to her? Not.. not now just... if she's okay with it?" Seir shakes her head. "I'm sorry I didn't, this isn't what I followed you for." She takes out the small bag she hastily stuffed some of the money in. "I don't know if you'll take this but I'd like to give you back some...and a small portion of what we found in the keep." She finally looks up, actually looking at Eloise for the first time since the dinner, "If it's okay with you, I'd like to stay here. I know you aren't sure about Bellbury's longevity, but if you let me, I'd like to help in anyway that I can."

*[*1:04 AM*]* DM*:* She puts her hand on Seir's and gently pushes it back towards her. "I can ask her. I suppose my answer about staying is something that will be answered once Qarius is done. When we find out if my people will return and how many of them have survived the ordeal. There's a lot I just don't know yet, including whether anything *can* be done, let alone what."

*[*1:10 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir pouts slightly at the money not being taken, "I have a way back, I would *like* to come back. So I'll be here if you do *need* the help. Takara is having her champion show me a cave where Stool might be able to stay and I'd like to be close if possible." She explains a little more. "Thank you, again. You didn't... you have been far kinder to me than..." She shakes her head, "Thank you."

*[*1:17 AM*]* DM*:* She smiles a little. "You're about her age, I think. I just hate to think about her making some mistake and having to pay for it the rest of her life. I'd hope that anyone responsible for punishing another would take into account everything else that matters. Even if it takes them a few days to get over the shock and hurt to think clearly again."

*[*1:23 AM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nods and smiles sadly, "Sometimes we pay for things that aren't in our control. And sometimes we inflict the same pain onto someone that we've gone through ourselves. And for that... I don't think I could ever apologize enough for it, but I'd like to try." Seir shakes her head. "I'm sorry... please, excuse me. I've taken enough of your time." She says, embarrassed.

*[*1:25 AM*]* DM*:* She nods and smiles, effectively dismissing Seir, but as she turns, she stops and says, "Oh, and please let Gunnloda know that I would like to talk to her at some point, if she's willing."

*[*1:26 AM*]* Seirixori*:* "Of course. Goodnight, Eloi--Baroness." Seir dips her head and heads back into the cask.

## Brilanophine

*[*12:28 AM*]* Nolanos*:* "Well that was a lot..." Nolanos says, watching them leave. " Hey Rav, can I talk to you for a sec?"(edited)

*[*12:30 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* “Incredibly generous” she fiddles with putting the rest of the stuff in her bag. “Is everything okay?”

*[*12:34 AM*]* DM*:* Everyone else kind of splits off to do their own thing, leaving Nolanos, Rav, and a kind of clueless Bri at the table.

*[*12:35 AM*]* Nolanos*:* "I was actually going to ask you that... you had this look when Eloise came over to you..."

*[*12:40 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* “It wasn’t intentional,” she says softly, grabbing her own arm. “Eloise just has never seen me do much, so it just struck a sore spot is all”

*[*12:41 AM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Well, you're pretty impressive so don't worry about it too much." Brimeia trails a hand over Ravaphine's back.

*[*12:42 AM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos reaches forward to place his hand over hers, saying softly, "You're amazing, don't ever think otherwise. Do you want to talk about it?"

*[*12:46 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* “I’m pretty cool I guess” she smirks and makes little sparks come out of her fingertips. “But so are both of you. You two are really fantastic” she says as she grabs a hand from both of them

*[*12:50 AM*]* Nolanos*:* "You know what else would be fantastic...." Nolanos says, a grin slowly appearing on his face. ".... a night swim." He just wants her to be happy and honestly, it does sound fun right now.(edited)

*[*12:54 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* “Nolanos, you’re always so full of good ideas,” she says, smiling at him. “What do you think, Brimeia? Want to take a dip in the water?”(edited)

*[*12:55 AM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Sounds good to me."

*[*1:03 AM*]* Nolanos*:* "Well then, what are we waiting for? Let's go!" He says excitedly grabbing Bri's hand and squeezing Rav's. With that, he pulls them along behind him as he runs to the door.(edited)

*[*1:05 AM*]* DM*:* As you guys go outside, you see Seir and Eloise talking in the square between the Cask and the mansion.

*[*1:05 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* “He gets excited when there are things he likes to do or eat” she manages to yell out while they’re running

*[*1:06 AM*]* Nolanos*:* "This is true!" he laughs.

*[*1:07 AM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia snorts. "I'm sure he does."

*[*1:09 AM*]* Ravaphine*:* They quietly sneak past Seir and Eloise.

*[*2:58 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I'm happy the Moonstreams gave Seir another chance," Rav comments after they are out of earshot of the conversation happening between the two

*[*3:00 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Me too." Brimeia smiles, despite still being a little confused about Nolanos holding her hand.

*[*2:59 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "She's a good egg, that one"

*[*3:02 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I think Brimeia thinks you have cooties" Rav jokes to Nolanos

*[*3:03 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "What?" Brimeia blinks, startled.

*[*3:04 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "What?" He then remembers that he's holding Bri's hand and releases it. "Oh! Uh, sorry. Heh."

*[*3:05 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia just shrugs and smiles in a way that she hopes is reassuring.

*[*3:06 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos smiles back, successfully reassured.

*[*3:08 PM*]* DM*:* After about a ten-fifteen minute walk, you find the river, past Poni's house on the main road. The fish have been cleared away and the boats re-moored. It looks like a river, a dock, and abandoned warehouses and boats mostly.

*[*3:12 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos gets excited all over again and takes off toward the most open patch of river bank he can see.(edited)

*[*3:12 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Come on, slow pokes!" He laughs.

*[*3:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Looks so much cleaner than the last time we were here. This town will get back up and running in no time" she says to Brimeia, because Nolanos is gone

*[*3:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I'll race ya, Bri!" Rav takes off in a sprint as well

*[*3:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((what time is it lol))

*[*3:14 PM*]* DM*:* Evening, just about sunset.

*[*3:14 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia chuckles, cheered by the carefree enthusiasm of the other two. "You're on!" Brimeia takes off after them.

*[*3:16 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav stands at the end the dock with the tips of her boots sticking over the edge. "Wow, what a country"

*[*3:20 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia tips her head curiously, looking toward Ravaphine. "What do you mean?"

*[*3:21 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos pauses next to her and holds her hand, taking in the view, " it's certainly beautiful. Almost as beautiful as you."

*[*3:22 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav's ear's blush pink. "Get out of here!" she chuckles while pretending to push Nolanos in

*[*3:22 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "You beat me to it," Brimeia teases.

*[*3:23 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "You too" Rav smacks Brimeia lightly on the arm

*[*3:24 PM*]* Nolanos*:* He grins and laughs, "what? I can't help that I have eyes."

*[*3:28 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Ah, but who's gonna tell you that the sunset makes your eyes glow like coals?" she chuckles.

*[*3:32 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "You two are silly" Rav rolls her eyes, takes her boots and bag off, puts her hood up and dives head first into the water(edited)

*[*3:35 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos shrugs at Brimeia, still chucking a little, and takes off his bag and his armor. He leaves them all in a pile and (still wearing the water breathing cap) dives in as well.

*[*3:36 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Pff. If you want to swim in the river, do it right," she teases them both. Brimeia tosses off all her clothes and leaps in after them.

*[*3:39 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav is still peaced out under water

*[*3:44 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Rolling his eyes and laughing, Nolanos mutters "Gillyweed," and dives under to check on Rav

*[*3:46 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav swims under brimeia and tickles the bottom of her foot

*[*3:47 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos sees this and tickles Rav on her sides

*[*3:49 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia wriggles and lets out a shout. "Gah! Oooo, I'm gonna get you back for that," she grins.

*[*3:51 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav comes back up after freeing herself and accidentally kicking Nolanos in the face. "Normally I would say I'm sorry for both of those things but there is a time and place for everything"

*[*3:52 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* She looks out to where the rest of the river leads while treading water. "How long do you think it would take to swim back home?"

*[*3:52 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia splashes water at Ravaphine's face.

*[*3:52 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Home?"

*[*3:53 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos resurfaces rubbing his nose

*[*3:53 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "What about home?"

*[*3:54 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Just wondering how long it would take to swim to Rodoza, but it's a little far from here. Good thing we have those transportation tickets. Also sorry, Peanut" Rav swims mover and kisses him on the dragon nose

*[*3:56 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia raises an eyebrow at the nickname and stifles a snicker. "Rodoza? So that's where you're from?"

*[*3:57 PM*]* Nolanos*:* He hums happily at the nickname and the kiss, "good thing."

*[*3:59 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Yes! Rauvi. Right on the southwestern coast. Where are you from, Brimeia?"

*[*4:03 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Shasem. And wherever I feel like wandering. What's Rodoza like?"

*[*4:06 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Wow, you are really on the other side of the world. Where do you want to travel to next?"

*[*4:08 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Rodoza has a lot of big cities. Latamas, the town over to mine is a big wizard's college town. Lots of Qarius and Ponis walking around"

*[*4:09 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Gross. So this must have been fun to come to, huh?"(edited)

*[*4:10 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Hmm. I dunno. Anywhere, really. I wanna see it all. Got any suggestions?" Brimeia makes a face at the mention of Qarius and Poni. "Ugh."

*[*4:12 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Are either of you good at darts? We can take a dart and go to wherever it lands on the map!"

*[*4:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav shivers slightly. "It's getting cold, should we head back to the cask soon?"

*[*4:13 PM*]* Nolanos*:* " That sounds like a great plan to me," he smiles. "You're right, it is getting a bit nippy. "

*[*4:14 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "That sounds fun. But yeah.. probably." Brimeia sighs, then smirks. "Wouldn't want any monsters jumping out to eat you up."

*[*4:16 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos laughs, "No we definitely wouldn't want that."

*[*4:17 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav looks fake offended. “I can hold my own. But I know you’ll both be here to take care of me and each other” Rav smiles at them and swims back to the dock

*[*4:19 PM*]* Nolanos*:* " We know you can, love. That doesn't mean we won't still be there," he says warmly, swimming to the dock.

*[*4:20 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia snorts. "Not really what I meant, but I'm sure you can, Ravashing." She winks.

## Urryleigh

*[*12:16 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* After Eloise leaves, Ryleigh nudges Safika with her shoulder and says, "I need to talk to Urrak. I won't sleep good tonight if I don't..."

*[*12:17 PM*]* DM*:* Safika nods. "Do you want me to stick around?"

*[*12:19 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh thinks for a little bit, "you can if you'd like, but its also alright if you want to head back to the house. I can always find you there and its....probably likely I'll need to be somewhere safe later..." she looks a little downcast.(edited)

*[*12:21 PM*]* DM*:* Safika reaches out and takes her hand. "Hey... you didn't do anything wrong, ok? Come find me after."

*[*12:24 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh takes comfort in the contact and nods, "i will." She stands and walks over to Urrak. Ryleigh reaches out a hand to get Urrak's attention out of habit, but pulls it back almost immediately. Instead she clears her throat to Urrak's attention.

*[*12:26 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak turns at the noise, her face flushing a bit at the sight of Ryleigh. She runs a hand through her hair. "It's time then, eh?" she asks sheepishly(edited)

*[*12:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods curtly and walks towards the entrance of the cask and towards the temple.

*[*12:31 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Ah, ok, lead th' way I guess..." Urrak follows behind

*[*12:32 PM*]* DM*:* The temple of Takara's relatively simple, a large room at the front with benches and a back room with beds.(edited)

*[*12:33 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around the main room, seeing if they're alone.

*[*12:33 PM*]* DM*:* You don't see anyone.

*[*12:35 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I want to know why" Ryleigh says to Urrak. She very much looks like the paladin she is, chin raised, eyes bearing into yours, back straightened.

*[*12:42 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Easy, Ry, t-there's no need fer th' righteous paladin act." She sighs and looks off to the side, the heat of the other woman's eyes is too much for her to bear right now. "I...I suppose I just wanted t' be sure. That this was, what it was an' not...anythin' else. As y'can tell, I'm not th' most forward thinkin' person though...I'm sorry, Ryleigh, I don't know what else I can even say."

*[*12:45 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Why didn't you just ask me what we were?" She doesn't cut the paladin act and her voice is still commanding.

*[*12:51 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I...I don't know. I should've, I know I should've. Maybe I...maybe a part of me wanted t' feel somethin', or maybe I was...gettin' y' mixed up with someone else. There probably isn't one real answer. In my experience, most things like this are just...real complicated." She crosses her arms and swallows, her mind working to find something better to say, something to make this all go away, but she finds nothing. "But gods Ry I don't...I don't want this t'...I'd hate t' see y' leave because of somethin' I did. Seir would never forgive me." she cracks a small, sad smile, perhaps more out of nerves than anything else.

*[*12:58 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "It isn't complicated, Urrak. It's really simple. If you liked me than you should have said so and we'd be having a very different conversation. If my actions were sending you mixed feelings than you could have told me so I could clarify. But you didn't do any of those things, instead you violated me." Ryleigh deflates a bit, "you reminded me of how different I am and not just from the group but from everyone. I'm returning to Riverrun after the arch is complete anyway. Unlike all of you, my time is not my own. So don't blame yourself for my leaving, that was always going to happen."(edited)

*[*1:06 PM*]* DM*:* As you're talking, a tabby cat hops up in the window and sits in the dwindling sunlight, resting its head on its paws.(edited)

*[*1:08 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'm sorry, Ryleigh. Y'know I've been tryin' t' do jus' th' opposite..." she cautiously walks forward, but stops just short of her. "None of this is on you, do ye hear me? It's all me. I crossed that line, I...*violated* ye. It was my decision t' disregard yer feelin's and jus' take what I wanted. It was wrong, I regret it, and when ye do leave...please feel free t' forget me. I've been nothin' but trouble. I haven't done a thing t' make y' want t' do otherwise I'm sure. I'm just sorry that my actions affected everyone else too. They don't deserve t' feel like they have t' walk on eggshells around ye. Especially since y'joined our merry band o' idiots y've been nothin' but compassionate t' everyone." she rubs her eyes and is unsurprised when her hand comes back damp. She sniffles ungraciously and places her hands on her hips. "I...I know I've broken this but...I just wanted y' t' know that...it was really great havin' a battle buddy." she smiles a bit through her tears. "I'll...I'll leave ye be. Hopefully th' arch is fixed soon. I'm sure more deservin' folks need ye."

*[*1:13 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh doesn't move to stop Urrak but she does say, "we wouldn't be having this conversation if I thought we were broken *or* if I didn't want it to be fixed."

*[*1:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* She stops and turns. After a few short moments she walks back towards Ryleigh. Her voice is shaky "Then tell me, Ry...what I do...what can I say. I--" a sniffle, a glance at the window and it's new resident, and back to Ryleigh "Please I...S-sorry can I...?" she opens her arms

*[*1:21 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh holds up her hand in a stop motion, "I don't want to be touched right now." But she does relax her stance, dropping the paladin act. "Urrak, you hurt me, and I don't usually give people the power to hurt me. It hurts because I do care for you. I thought that you understood me and the kiss made me realize that you don't. *That's* why I'm upset."

*[*1:23 PM*]* DM*:* The cat hops down from the sill and walks between Urrak's legs, then rubs its face and body against Ryleigh's shins as it passes.

*[*1:28 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods and backs up a half step. "I-I care about ye as well, an' definitely not in *that* way but in a *friend* way, i-if I'm still able t' call ye that." She looks down a moment at the cat a moment slightly puzzled but soon puts it out of her mind. "I want t' understand ye, Ryleigh. You've been one of the best things t' happen to our dysfunctional little group. We'll all hate t' see ye go. So for the time that we have left, I...I'll do better. Try harder. Whatever I can t' make this up to ye."

*[*1:35 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh kneels down and pets the cat, taking a small amount of comfort in its presence. "Just because I'm leaving for Riverrun when the archway is complete doesn't mean that I won't return or that you lot can't come with me. I need to report back to my temple to inform my superiors of the situation here." She scratches the cats chin, "You don't have to make anything up to me, Urrak. I just want you to understand and respect my feelings. Is there anything I can do differently that wont 'mix you up'?"

*[*1:38 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Gods, no Ry. Please don't change. I told ye, ye didn't do anythin' wrong." she holds out her hand "I promise t' respect yer boundaries, and yer feelin's. *I promise.*"

*[*1:42 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh stands and takes Urrak's hand, "I hope you do, because next time I might be more angry than hurt and we both know that you won't like me when I'm angry." She smirks at Urrak and grips her hand really tight for a brief moment to reiterate her comment.

*[*1:42 PM*]* Urrak*:* "A-aye, wouldn't want that. *How are you so strong you're so small* "(edited)

*[*1:44 PM*]* DM*:* The cat gives a little mew, then hops back up to the window before dropping down outside.

*[*1:47 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh releases Urrak's hand. She walks towards the door, but calls over her shoulder, "Just another mystery about me that you'll have to find out I guess" and with a wink she leaves Urrak staring after her.

## Gunnloda's Secret

*[*4:06 PM*]* DM*:* Seir returns to the Cask. It's pretty empty right now. Bri, Nolanos, and Rav have gone south. Safika disappeared. Urrak and Ryleigh haven't returned yet. Gunnloda's the only one left and you can guess she's probably in the kitchen.

*[*4:09 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir heads to the kitchen and peeks in, "*Tor beag*?"

*[*4:10 PM*]* DM*:* She's in there, making some bread for breakfast.

*[*4:10 PM*]* DM*:* She wipes her hands on her tabard when she hears Seir and turns to her. "Everything ok, love?"

*[*4:19 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir tilts her head, "I... think so, yes." She steps in and gives Gunnloda a hug and a kiss before pulling back and sitting on the floor. "So, last night... when I said leaving *here*... I might have... well I..." she sighs and rolls her eyes, she did so well with Eloise a little bit ago. "I kind of asked Eloise if I could stay here? If you're okay with that. I mean, there's a forest and Takara's getting Moki to show me a cave that I can check out for Stool and I'd like to stay by them. And I know you said we could go anywhere but I want to make sure you're really okay with it first."

*[*4:24 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda looks at Seir for a moment, like she's looking for an answer to a question. "Anywhere would include here, yes, but wh-- did you change your mind, or was "here" not supposed to mean Bellbury?"

*[*4:29 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "It wasn't. Not really. I just... I meant with *them*. I..." She looks away for a moment. "I wanted to walk away last night but I... I promised you I'd come back." Seir shrugs. "I think most of them *want* to go back home anyway so I guess it wouldn't *really* matter. Eloise isn't sure there's going to be... well she isn't sure of Bellbury's survival, but I'd also like to help her if she wants it." Seir scrunches her nose, "I don't think she really answered me about that, actually."(edited)

*[*4:33 PM*]* DM*:* There's a definite sadness to her features, and maybe a little hurt, but she steps forward, bends down and takes Seir's hand, and quietly says, "I'm glad you stayed. I'm sorry, I've been so wrapped up in my own issues, I haven't been attentive to yours."

*[*4:38 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just smiles, resting her other hand on Gunnloda's cheek, "I think that goes both ways, *tor beag*. But I wasn't sure you wanted to talk about it... around all of them, so... do you want to talk about it now?" She asks hesitantly.

*[*4:42 PM*]* DM*:* She lets out a little chuckle. "Which part?" She closes her eyes and shakes her head a little before looking back up to meet Seir's eyes. "An actual explanation might be overdue, isn't it?"

*[*4:48 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Whatever you feel comfortable with." Seir nods, "But yes, I... it would... I feel like I might say the wrong thing and not know it. Or just..." She shakes her head, "Please. I don't want to push but ... well, maybe I should."

*[*4:55 PM*]* DM*:* She nods and glances around, catching sight of her unfinished bread. "Would you like to go sit somewhere more comfortable? Or... if we stay in here, I might start cooking to keep my hands busy and I don't want you to feel like I'm ignoring you."

*[*5:00 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Whatever is more comfortable for you, *tor beag*. You can keep baking or we can go upstairs to a bed, or the grove with some trees and bugs." she teases lightly. "So I suppose the real question is do you want to keep your hands busy with baking, or busy with me? I won't mind either way." Her face is red by the end of it, she didn't exactly mean to *say* it, but she also isn't going to backtrack on it.

*[*5:03 PM*]* DM*:* "I... don't want to waste the food, and... well, I'm not sure I'd be able to say everything without something else to focus on, so maybe here is better at first."

*[*5:06 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir leans forward and gives Gunnloda a brief kiss, "Then I will sit here and listen while you bake, *a mhuirnín*."

*[*5:10 PM*]* DM*:* She takes a deep breath and turns back to the counter where she was chopping apples. She picks up the knife and starts working again as the words come. "I told you about my cousin, Kafar, and the cages we were trapped in. How we were left there for... I'm not sure how long. He was hurt when we were captured and he... he died from his wound long before I did."

*[*5:18 PM*]* DM*:* "In the end, all I remember was how weak I felt. Like I didn't even have the strength to shiver anymore, or the strength to be hungry. Then it was just... darkness. Endless darkness. Not like... magic darkness where there's still *things* just... I didn't have a body, there was no floor. There was nothing." She takes another deep breath before continuing. "The next thing I knew, Kendall was bringing me back. It was too late for Kafar and she never said as much, but I think it was close to too late for me too. Those first few days were confusing and so, so cold. We were still down beyond the Bastion, but it was a cold that felt like it came from inside me and I can't tell you how many times they pulled me from the fireside, worried I'd just crawl inside to get warm."

*[*5:28 PM*]* DM*:* "They eventually took me home. Their group disbanded and Kendall stayed with me. The priests of Akthor kept telling me that it was all in my head and there was nothing wrong with me, but Kendall was kinder. I told her about the darkness and she didn't know anything about it, but she also didn't know anyone who had come back." She moves to the next step of her baking, just keeping herself composed. "I couldn't stand being there anymore. Every face I saw reminded me of his and the walls felt like they were closing in. Everyone kept telling me I had to just get over it like I was choosing to feel so... weak and helpless. I started thinking it would have been better if she'd never saved me, but every time I closed my eyes, I'd see Kafar and every time I fell asleep, I dreamed about the darkness and it scared me more than anything I might face awake. I-- I still do, sometimes. It's what woke me up this morning."

*[*5:33 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir moves so that she's kneeling behind Gunnloda, briefly placing a hand on her shoulder, just to let her know she's there, but she doesn't want to invade her space in case she doesn't want the closeness.

*[*5:35 PM*]* DM*:* She doesn't pull away at all, but she keeps mixing ingredients. "I couldn't stand being there, so I left. I invited myself along with Kendall to go visit her home in Halava. I saw what she had in the Host... a place to belong, no matter where she went. A place to find allies. Magic. Resources. She could heal with a touch and... I just kept seeing Kafar slowly dying and all I could do was hold his hand and watch. I never wanted to be so helpless again... but I couldn't ignore the darkness. Kendall started teaching me about the Host, thinking that maybe it was Akthor's fault. Maybe I'd have a different experience with different gods, but it all felt so... hollow."

*[*5:41 PM*]* DM*:* "I started thinking that this was all some big, cosmic joke. The gods weren't really gods. But when I tried to talk to Kendall about it, she got angry. It was like I was calling her stupid for believing in them. I just... I needed someone to talk to, but she would always shut down. I stopped trying. I decided to pretend until I started believing it. I learned about the Host and about the gods and anything else I could. I picked up the platitudes people used and just tried to forget everything else. I never told her, but I never really... *believed*. I-- Becoming a cleric was like a test. Could I still get magic, even if I didn't believe in the gods who were supposed to be giving it to me?"

*[*5:46 PM*]* DM*:* She sighs and drops her dough on the board. "And I did. I had magic. I had a position in the priesthood. And I was a fraud. I focused on the good that I could do. I could feed the poor and the hungry. I could comfort those who needed it. I could heal the hurt. Sometimes when people are at the end of their rope, a lie is what gets them through the night. But it was nothing more than a nice bedtime story to me."

*[*5:48 PM*]* DM*:* "The platitudes became automatic. The words to give thanks, to offer support, to... be a priest. Even Kendall believed it eventually because I stopped trying to talk to her about it. I was too afraid to lose her."(edited)

*[*5:54 PM*]* DM*:* "It's not that I think they don't exist... it's that I don't think they are as powerful as they say they are. I don't think they're all-knowing or all-powerful or deathless. I don't think they're infallible. I don't know exactly how to explain it, but... what makes one a demon lord, another an archdevil, and another a god besides... us? What we say is right or wrong, who we worship, what we believe? How is it that there are three gods like Arawai, Mielikki, and Takara that are all gods of the *same thing*?"(edited)

*[*6:03 PM*]* DM*:* She kneads her way through that whole explanation, her actions more forceful as her voice hardens, until she finally plops it all in a pan and puts it in the oven and turns to face Seir. The hardness in her expression fades a bit as she collects herself.

*[*6:16 PM*]* DM*:* "In the end, I suppose what I *believe* is that they're celestials with over-inflated egos. There *is* magic out there for people to gain, just like I did... and the 'gods' are just the easiest way to access it. Believing in a god of light is easier than comprehending the concept of it. It's why gods have such overlapping powers and why they're so localized and limited. If Mielikki was really a god, shouldn't she be able to appear here? Why couldn't Takara cure Cae? Why does Asten fit both Dol Arrah and Onatar? So... that's where I am. I do believe there is something, something very powerful, that you talk to, who talks to you, that goes by the name of Takara or Mielikki or however many there are..." she kind of drops her hands and her head, not really looking at Seir, "but I don't think they are what other people think they are."

*[*6:32 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir chuckles at the thought of Mielikki appearing in Bellbury, “Their powers *are* limited. So I’ve been told.” She shrugs, “So maybe you’re right. And… well, to be honest, even if Mielikki *could* show up here I really don’t think she ever would. She’s kind of… well, there’s a reason no one *really* believes me when I say that I’ve seen her *and* talked to her.“ Seir pauses, because she'd never really given any thought about the gods and their existence before, well except the once "I yelled at her, Mielikki. Yelled at her because she let everyone die, but saved me? I didn’t.. I understand some of where you’re coming from. But... that is not what ... sorry."
Seir tugs Gunnloda so that she's closer, inches away from hugging her, but she makes a point of getting Gunnloda to look at her as she speaks, "I want you to know, that I'll listen to you. Even if I don't agree. It's never... I know what it's like to be ignored and I never want to make you feel that way. I may not *understand* some things, but I don't want you to feel like you can't talk to me about something just because I might have a different opinion..." Seir frowns, tilting her head as she thinks.
"And like I said, I will do anything so you don't have to go through any of that again." She snorts, "It's a little lucky that you kind of now have your own personal heater and food dispensory... also a light." Seir winks. "So, *thank you*, for telling me. We could even discuss the god thing more if you ever wanted."

*[*6:39 PM*]* DM*:* Her composure had been cracked through the whole explanation but it shatters now and she starts crying.

*[*6:40 PM*]* DM*:* "I don't know how to... thank you, *sor'odko*."

*[*6:44 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir starts to panic when she sees Gunnloda start crying but she lets out a sigh of relief at her words, "Always, *mo chroí*" She opens her arms, letting Gunnloda initiate the hug if she wants it.

*[*6:46 PM*]* DM*:* She falls into Seir's arms and holds her tight, crying into her shoulder.

*[*6:47 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Would it be bad if I said I kind of want to throw some of the citrus fruit at Kendall?" Seir jokingly whispers as she rubs Gunnloda's back while she cries.

*[*6:51 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda chuckles through her tears. "It was -- is -- complicated. I... can this be simple? Is that possible? "

*[*6:54 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I'm not really sure I understand what you mean by that. Is it supposed to be complicated? Because if it is, then people are dumb."

*[*6:57 PM*]* DM*:* "I don't want to have to hide or change and I don't want you to either. Just... I'll be there for you and you can do the same and we can be happy?"

*[*7:00 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Yes, *tor beag*, for as long as you wish, I will be there for you, all of you, whatever that entails."

*[*3:46 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir pulls away, worrying her lip between her teeth. "Does... Does that mean... you won't leave again if... when I do something stupid?" She whispers, looking down.

*[*4:03 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda puts her hand on Seir's jaw and uses her thumb to gently draw Seir's lip from her teeth. "I-- I've been afraid of doing to you what Kendall did to me since before Bleakmourne. I know what it is to be afraid to lose someone... to do anything to keep them. I don't... I don't want to be her and I don't want you to be me. I can't make that promise, but I do promise that I won't abandon you. I'll talk to you if there's something wrong and we can try to work through it together. I won't leave without trying."

*[*4:12 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir let's out a breath she wasn't aware she was holding. "Okay, that's... that's all I wanted." She pulls Gunnloda into another hug, tight as she can. "I didn't know how to ask before..."

*[*4:16 PM*]* DM*:* "Please don't be afraid to talk to me, love... and I'll do the same."

*[*4:26 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nods, "Promise." She kisses Gunnloda softly, "Did you want to sleep inside tonight? Oh, and did you want to go with me tomorrow? I didn't think to ask earlier."

*[*4:32 PM*]* DM*:* "I don't mind sleeping wherever you want tonight. As for tomorrow... is it personal? Something you want to do alone? Or... I know you need space sometimes. I don't want to smother you."

*[*4:37 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs, "I think maybe I would like to do it alone. Not because I want to be alone but..." she shrugs again. "I don't know how to explain it."

*[*4:40 PM*]* DM*:* "It's all right, love. I'll be here... keep an eye on the rest of them."

## Ryfika

*[*5:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks away from the temple, shoulders back and eyes forward, all bravado but it’s all a farce. She can feel herself fraying at the edges. She passes the Cask and her step falters. The others, they confuse her. They tell her she’s family and that she’s welcome to join them; but she can also see that they fear her, that she doesn’t fit in, and it kind of hurts. She picks up her pace, walking quickly by the Cask and heading to the slums.

Ryleigh’s always been brash and has always spoke her mind, but she also chooses her words carefully. She tries to build others up, motivate them to be the best they can be, she rarely uses words to cut people down. Is that why she lessened the blow to Urrak? She starts to lightly jog to her destination. She was considering reporting back to Riverrun and then returning to help the group on their adventures, because they do need her. “Always needed but never wanted” she thinks to herself.

She breaks into a run. It’s all too much. Cae’s request, Eloise’s kindness, the other’s recklessness, Urrak’s kiss, Safika crumbling to the ground - it’s left Ryleigh feeling raw and vulnerable. She reaches the door and knocks before staggering into the room. She’s started to crack. Ryleigh suddenly feels restricted by the armor that usually gives her comfort, its heavy and she needs it off because it’s hard to breathe. Without warning she starts grabbing at her armor in attempt to remove it. There’s blackness at the edge of her vision. She’s dizzy and falls to her knees.

*[*12:01 AM*]* DM*:* There's a cool hand on Ryleigh's forehead, then swift fingers find the clasps and buckles of her breastplate, helping to pull it off. Once it's on the floor, Safika takes one of Ryleigh's hands in hers and puts her other hand on her back. "Breathe, Ry. You're ok. Just breathe."

*[*12:05 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Once the breastplate is off Ryleigh feels some relief but her heart is racing. She manages a very shaky, "I....can't...." before her eyes fill with tears - she's scared.

*[*12:07 AM*]* DM*:* She squeezes Ryleigh's hand tight, but not enough to hurt, just enough to make her feel it, and maneuvers around in front of her to catch her eye. "Hey, look at me, Ryleigh. You're safe. Nothing's going to hurt you here. Breathe with me. In.... out...."

*[*12:14 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh's eyes find Safika's and she starts to breathe with her, squeezing Safika's hand to ground herself. It takes several minutes of this before Ryleigh's breathing finally starts to regulate, but she's still shaking and trying desperately not to cry.

*[*12:16 AM*]* DM*:* Safika gently brushes a bit of hair from Ryleigh's face, unsure how much touching is ok. "What do you need, Ry? Can I hug you?"(edited)

*[*12:22 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh doesn't answer, instead she falls into Safika's arms. And it's been so long since she's sought out physical comfort that she's shook by how much she needs it, by how much she wants it - the tears finally come.

*[*12:25 AM*]* DM*:* Safika holds her and alternates between rubbing her back and running her hand over the back of Ryleigh's head. She just keeps repeating, "It's ok... you're ok... let it out... I've got you..."

*[*12:30 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh cries for several minutes, letting everything that's happened over the last week wash over her. She finally quiets but doesn't pull away, "I felt like I was dying....I don't know what happened...."

*[*12:33 AM*]* DM*:* She makes no move to pull away if Ryleigh doesn't. "That's what happens when you don't let yourself feel... when you bottle it too long and it explodes."

*[*12:37 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I don't know how else to be..." Ryleigh's voice is small.

*[*12:40 AM*]* DM*:* She sighs and decides that this isn't the time for a lecture and just holds Ryleigh for as long as she wants to be held.

*[*12:45 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm sorry if I scared you. After my talk with Urrak...everything just felt like to much. It...I guess it all overwhelmed me." She's quiet for a while, realizing this is the first time she's found comfort in someone else since Avery died, she swallows the lump in her throat and her voice crack as she says, "thank you."

*[*12:47 AM*]* DM*:* "It's no problem. What are friends for if not to help them through breakdowns and hold back their hair while they puke?"

*[*12:53 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh lets out a watery laugh and reluctantly pulls away from the embrace. "I wouldn't know what friends are for, I only had my family and then I didn't even have them. Most people just see someone scary in black armor. You're the first person who's ever looked past that."(edited)

*[*12:56 AM*]* DM*:* "Well that's just silly. I don't think you're scary at all."

*[*1:01 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh raises an eyebrow not believing the other woman, "really? you don't think I'm scary at all?"

*[*1:02 AM*]* DM*:* She just huffs a little chuckle. "No? Should I?"

*[*1:12 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Yes." Ryleigh bites her lip, because she doesn't want to push Safika away but she also wants to be honest, "I'm afraid of myself sometimes. When the orc at the keep hit you and I saw your body crumble to the ground...I couldn't think of anything other than killing it...I wanted it to die and I wanted to do it. I took its head clear off with one swipe. That rage helps me survive, but it scares me too. It was the first time the others saw it and you saw how they were at the campfire, the awkwardness. I can't help thinking its because they saw the monster inside of me."

*[*1:20 AM*]* DM*:* She smiles in this almost patronizing way. "Ryleigh... they all killed dozens of those orcs. I put a dagger through one of their eyes. They were awkward because of what happened between you and the big one... and maybe a little afraid of me because they don't know anything about me except that I would stab any of them for you." She grins at the last bit to show she's *mostly* joking. "You don't have a *monster* inside you. It's just anger... anger and guilt and... whatever else you have in here," she puts her hand on Ryleigh's chest, "that you don't let out in a healthier way."

*[*1:36 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh's worry instantly vanishes when Safika begins to speak. She lets the other woman's words wash over her and takes a breath she didn't realize she was holding when Safika places her hand over Ryleigh's heart. "I..." She pauses, unsure of what to say. "I want to believe you, but..." Ryleigh looks away not wanting to see disappointment on Safika's face.(edited)

*[*1:40 AM*]* DM*:* She pulls her hand away and leans over a little to try to catch Ryleigh's eye. "Hey, I know something buried this deep in you is going to take more than one conversation to make it sink in. I'll remind you again and again until you learn to accept it. You might not have had anyone for a while, but you've got me now, whether you like it or not."

*[*1:53 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh does look at Safika as she beings to speak, unconsciously nodding along with what she's saying. "...and you've got me, whether you like it or not." She takes Safika's hand and looks into her eyes, "there aren't words in any language I know that can fully express how much I needed this or how much I need you." Ryleigh's eyes fill with tears of gratitude, "thank you falls short and feels lackluster, but thank you."

*[*1:55 AM*]* DM*:* "Any time." She pauses again, then asks, "Is now a bad time to ask what happened? I assume it didn't go well."

*[*2:04 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh gives another watery laugh, "it didn't go *too* badly. I asked for explanation and she said that everyone thought we had feelings for each other and to see if she did - she kissed me. I told her she could have just asked, but..." she shrugs "she didn't. So there's nothing I can do about that. I told her I wanted to mend what friendship was forming between us, but if I'm being honest" Ryleigh sighs "it hurt because I thought she understood me and her kiss just reminded me how different I am...from everyone."

*[*2:06 AM*]* DM*:* She tilts her head a little and asks, with just a hint of teasing, "This isn't *the monster* again, is it?"

*[*2:15 AM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Gods no" Ryleigh actually laughs. "Everyone just...." her mouth pulls into a thin line while she thinks, "everyone I know has sex or has the urge to, and I don't. I know how attraction works, I understand how to seduce someone, but I guess I don't understand the difference between platonic and romantic behavior. I think she mistook our physical interactions as a come on, but it wasn’t...” she sighs, frustrated.(edited)

*[*8:32 PM*]* DM*:* "I'm sorry... I know a little something about being different too. Sometimes it catches you off-guard when you're reminded. It can sting. But... unless you're going around telling her to kiss you or... I don't know why she'd think that's acceptable."

*[*8:43 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I didn't ask her to," Ryleigh responds almost immediately and quickly looks away, a light blush on her cheeks. "She did apologize for not taking my feelings into consideration *and* for taking what she wanted..." uncertainty evident in her voice. "I don't know why I gave her the power to hurt me. I should have known better."(edited)

*[*8:48 PM*]* DM*:* "You can't go through life with your insides as armored as your outsides, Ry. It's not good for you."

*[*8:59 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh reaches out her hand, hesitating long enough for Safika to pull away, before gently placing her hand on Safika's cheek, "I'm trying with you...." there's a tenderness in Ryleigh's eyes as she says, "and maybe you should take your own advice."

*[*9:05 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles. "Believe me, I know. If there was another way to do what I needed to do, I'd have done it. My walls are... more important than to just me."

*[*9:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I understand what it's like to operate on a need to know basis. I don't have to know to be here for you, Rukiya." Ryleigh brushes her thumb across Safika's cheek, before letting her hand fall.

*[*9:24 PM*]* DM*:* "I appreciate it... and I don't want you to think it's because I don't trust you. I know you'd do your best to keep my secret... but you know what they say about how two people can keep a secret. I'd hate to have to kill you," she adds with a smirk.(edited)

*[*9:37 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh starts to laugh, "if that's the case than maybe I should be thanking you for not telling me all of your secrets." Her laughter begins to die out but there's still a smile on her face as she blurts out, "I love you." Ryleigh's eye widen as she realizes what she said and quickly corrects herself, "being around you! I love being *around* you."

*[*9:38 PM*]* DM*:* She just raises an eyebrow and grins. "Trying to tell me something, Ryleigh?"

*[*9:41 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh audibly groans as a blush creeps up her neck. She pinches the bridge of her nose and is suddenly aware of Safika's proximity to herself. "I say the stupidest things around you. Anyone who saw us interact would never believe I seduce people to get information."

*[*9:47 PM*]* DM*:* She laughs. "Well, for most people, I'd say that's probably because you like me more than you realize... but I'll admit I'm not really sure how all of that works for you. Before you go and get all weird on me, let me add that I am perfectly content being your friend and I'm not uncomfortable with your affection so don't feel like you need to change. I'm not going to test boundaries or anything else. You let me know where your lines are and I'll stay on the other side of them."

*[*10:00 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm not entirely sure how it works for me either" Ryleigh grumbles out, still mentally slapping herself. She takes a breath before meeting Safika's eyes, "...thank you," she says it slowly and tries to put some feeling into the phrase that does quite fit her level of relief. "I was worried that maybe this" she gestures between them "would change because of what I said. All of these feelings are new to me and I'm not sure how to work them out, but I promise to let you know where the boundaries are."

*[*10:02 PM*]* DM*:* "Nope. You're stuck with me. Well... our respective missions allowing, anyway." She frowns, remembering that she *did* have a mission here before Ryleigh showed up.

*[*10:04 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh notices her frown and asks, "What is it?"

*[*10:06 PM*]* DM*:* "I'll have to get back eventually. It'll be weird with you gone."

[12:19 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes Safika's hand, "Why don't you stay? Just until the arch is complete." She realizes how vulnerable she probably sounds, but decides not to care. "Then we can go to Riverrun together, because Berolt will want a full report on everything, and you know the things I don't and vice versa."

*[*10:22 PM*]* DM*:* "Well, I still haven't finished my investigation. I'm at a bit of a standstill. Leads and theories, but nothing solid. And now that I've been face to face with Eloise, maybe my worry was unfounded. Not that I'd like to repeat that."

*[*10:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'd ask why, but it's not necessary that I know. But I'm sorry about that, it was partially my fault. I should have told you to go but I wanted you to stay."

*[*10:33 PM*]* DM*:* "You can always ask. I may not answer. And you did warn me. It was my choice to stay. Long, very interesting but entirely off-limits story short, I was afraid she'd recognize me from the life I had before."

*[*10:41 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Not that you *needed* a good reason but that sounds like a good reason to not want another interaction with Eloise." Ryleigh realizes she's still holding Safika's hand and loosens her grip, letting Safika decide if she wants to break the contact. "Let me know if there's anything you need me to do to make sure it doesn't happen again."(edited)

*[*10:46 PM*]* DM*:* She shrugs. "I can handle it if it comes up, and it's not like either of us can control the Moonstreams. It's actually Misha I'd be most worried about, but I don't think she's been seen out of the house since the thing happened. But thanks for offering anyway."

*[*10:53 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I think Eloise is being very 'mama bear' about both Cae and Misha right now. Rightfully so, they've been through a lot in the last 2 weeks." Ryleigh audibly swallows before asking, "You can say no, but could I stay here tonight? The thought of being at the Cask and possibly running into the others is something I can't deal with right now." She waits a moment before quickly adding, "I'll take the chairs tonight *if* I can stay."

*[*10:57 PM*]* DM*:* "You're welcome to stay. I'd even say we can share, if that's not too weird for you, but I'd rather not be stabbed in my sleep either. If you'd rather, we could always go find a house with two beds. It's not like there's a shortage. In fact... I know of one."

*[*11:08 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh chuckles at the stabbing comment, "I don't want to stab you by accident either. I think its safer for the both of us to find a different house." She stands and looks at her scattered armor, she picks it up and places it in a corner of the room, she grabs Dawnbringer. "Lead the way" she smiles and holds the door open for Safika.

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