Session 46

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This session was played on January 9, 2018. It lasted 7 hours, 36 minutes.

## Trivia

* This was the 23rd combat encounter
* Highest attack roll: 25, Urrak, Ryleigh, Safika.
* Most attacks hit: 3, Moki
* Most damage for one attack: 21, Safika
* Most damage for one turn: 21, Safika
* Most damage done over the session: 41, Safika
* Most damage done by team over one round: 84, first round vs flesh golem
* Spells cast: 12
* Most common spell: Prestidigitation, Mending 3x
* Most spells cast: 8, Ravaphine, tied for the record set in 43.
* Most spell damage: 17, Elthin's Magic Missile
* Most kills this session: 1, Seir, Fithel, Moki, Elthin
* Most kills all-time: 18, Urrak
* Most healing this session: 30, Moki, a new record
* Targeted most: 12, Moki, a new record
* Most attacks dodged: 6, Moki, a new record
* Most damage taken: 49, Moki, a new record

## Transcript

*[*4:12 PM*]* DM*:* DAY 16, Hotdan 20 Jaqmont 3Y20, morning.

*[*4:23 PM*]* DM*:* You've teleported to different planes, rescued the ruling family of Bellbury, and been rewarded for your efforts in saving the Baroness's wife from werewolves and herself. You cleared a keep of orcs and put more than half Poni's arch back together. As the sun rises, some of you might feel a bit adrift, not knowing what to do next, but the universe (and by that I mean the DM) rarely allows for periods of rest, so don't get used to it.
Gunnloda and Seir spent the night out in the grove, Ryleigh and Safika somewhere in town. Urrak's probably passed out outside Malica's door, and the Brilanophine trio's in a poly pile somewhere... but now it's time for little birdies to wake up and have breakfast.
There's a couple loaves of apple bread courtesy of Gunnloda's stress baking available, but nothing warm since she hasn't come in yet.

*[*4:26 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia rolls out of bed, careful not to wake the others and smiles lazily before dressing and heading down to breakfast.

*[*4:33 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav rolls over and pouts at the cold and empty bed on either side of her. She also gets ready for the day before heading downstairs

*[*4:39 PM*]* Urrak*:* It takes Urrak a moment to remember where she is. The pieces of yesterday come back to her slowly, one by one. The talk at the temple, her trip to Lin's (always good to have a spare pair of clothes in case of another orc attack), her sitting at the Cask, downing pitcher after pitcher of ale more out of restlessness than anything else, and now?

The wood of the floor is hard, and not exactly well swept, and as she gets up she realizes the spaces between the planks have left a nice crease in her cheek. She shakes her head and looks up. She recognizes the door immediately. Untouched. Unopened. She knows Malica would've woken her had she come by. She sits there, cross-legged on the planks for a few moments more, trying to figure out what to do. A had reflexively fiddles with the dagger at her chest and a thought sparks in her mind. She gets up, enters the room, and moves towards Malica's things. Not wanting to go through the bag, she grabs the lute nearby and heads back downstairs. A slight headache pounds in her temples as she reaches the bar.

*[*4:43 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "You ok there? Ya look terrible."

*[*4:44 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav places a hand on Urrak's shoulder. "Let me get you something"

*[*4:45 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* She goes behind the bar and fixes Urrak basically the fantasy equivalent of a bloody mary.

*[*4:45 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "For you" she sticks the celery in it and passes it down the bar

*[*4:45 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks into the cask, dressed her black armor, and looking particularly well rested. She spots the others at the bar and hesitates for a moment before approaching them.

*[*4:46 PM*]* DM*:* Safika enters behind Ry.

*[*4:45 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Good mornin' t' you too, Bri." she tries to make herself look less terrible "Rough night I suppose..." she looks around the tavern, distractedly and starts a bit when she feels Rav's hand on her shoulder "O-oh, Rav...Uh, thank ye." she grabs the odd drink and takes a cautious sip.

*[*4:49 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia's about to answer Urrak before she spots the paladin entering. "You, on the other hand are looking better," she comments in a playful tone.

*[*4:51 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh quirks an eyebrow at Brimeia and slowly says, "thanks...." unsure of how to answer.

*[*4:46 PM*]* DM*:* A woman, vaguely human in form, with long black hair and golden, bronze skin walks in and heads to the bar, taking a piece of the apple bread for herself. "Well, what a strange, *happy* bunch of people you all seem to be."

*[*4:51 PM*]* Brimeia*:* She spots the new face before she can comment further. She thanks Ryleigh for the drink before turning back to peer curiously at the stranger.

*[*4:47 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Morning, ma'am. Morning Ryleigh and Safika" Rav nods to the three. "We try to work with what we have. What brings you around to these parts?"

*[*4:47 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* She wipes down the bar with a rag and slings it over her shoulder

*[*4:47 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods to the pair and the new arrival, mid-sip

*[*4:51 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak finishes the drink and places the flagon back on the bar. She shakes her head at Brimeia's comment as she does. "Thanks, Rav. That was...different. Kinda like I was drinkin' my supper but...not awful."

*[*4:52 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Should help with the headache and to help wake you up a bit" Rav winks in Urrak's direction

*[*4:48 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks at the stranger as she speaks, watching her closely. She walks around the bar and retrieves some drinks, laying them out for the others.

*[*4:49 PM*]* DM*:* The woman gives a casual shrug and grins lazily, "Just looking for someone. Though I might have been too early. Or late. I'm usually one or the other."

*[*4:51 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I see. Maybe we can try to help? My name's Ravaphine. Who are you looking for" Rav pours the stranger a cup of coffee(edited)

*[*4:53 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh addresses the stranger, "Who are you?"

*[*4:57 PM*]* DM*:* "Oh, I'm surprised. I figured a paladin of Asten would know that." She takes the coffee from Rav. "Aren't you sweet," she says before she takes a sip and sets it down. "But I think I'll just go see if I can find her myself, probably stealing some fruit."
She winks at the group and heads back out the door.(edited)

*[*4:58 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh watches her leave with narrowed eyes.

*[*4:58 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Yeah Paladin of Asten" Rav chuckles at Ryleigh before her eyes widen. "Wait a second..."(edited)

*[*4:59 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Well that was....somethin'. Did she say stealin' fruit?"

*[*5:00 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Seirixori." Ryleigh breathes as if having a sudden realization. She moves around the bar and starts heading after the woman.(edited)

*[*5:00 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav throws the rag back at the bar and runs to follow Ryleigh

*[*5:01 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak, slightly confused, follows behind

*[*5:01 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Ryleigh! Ryleigh, wait. Where are you going?" Rav attempts to grab Ry's shoulder

*[*5:03 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Pretty..." Brimeia mumbles to herself.

*[*5:03 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "She said she's looking for someone. *Someone* who's stealing fruit - Seirixori does that in the grove all the time. I'm going after her, to make sure it isn't."

*[*5:04 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak stands a ways behind the two, wanting to say something, but deciding against it.

*[*5:04 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "She didn't seem threatening. But I suppose it couldn't hurt to check."

*[*5:05 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "She didn't seem like she was angry, but maybe we can watch from a distance and let Seir handle things?"

*[*5:05 PM*]* DM*:* As you guys all pile out of the Cask arguing about whether or not to find Seir, you see her walking towards the Cask.

*[*5:06 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "You guys going somewhere?" Seir asks as she gets closer.

*[*5:07 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around for the woman who left the cask then to Seir, "No. I was looking for you."

*[*5:07 PM*]* DM*:* You don't see her.

*[*5:07 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Oh Seir! Hi" Rav coughs and clears her throat

*[*5:08 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia waves at Seirixori.

*[*5:08 PM*]* Urrak*:* "S-some woman was lookin' fer ye, Seir." Urrak offers meekly

*[*5:08 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "We don't *know* that she was looking for Seirixori." Ryleigh says to Urrak.

*[*5:08 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Okay...? I was just going to grab some bread Gunnloda made last night and then go wait for Moki." She pauses, "Actually I don't even know where I'm supposed to meet them."

*[*5:10 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Y'certainly thought she was..." she mumbles under her breath. "And aye, who's Moki?"

*[*5:09 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir waves back to Brimeia, and looks at Urrak and Ryleigh, "Uh.. well I *am* technically waiting for someone..."

*[*5:09 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Moki? Who'zat?"(edited)

*[*5:10 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Takara's champion, they're going to take me to some caves to see if they're okay for Stool. And some other task, I think."

*[*5:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps closer to Seir and lowers her voice, "I just...I wanted to make sure you were fine." She steps back and returns her voice to its normal volume, "When a stranger comes to town and doesn't give up any information about themselves, well, I get suspicious."

*[*5:12 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Oh, Stool! Miss the lil mushroom."

*[*5:13 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir winces a little, but smiles at Ryleigh, "Thank you." she whispers. She turns to Brimeia, "...They're... in the cask? You can go say hi to them."

*[*5:14 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks momentarily hurt before she schools her features back to neutral ((aka, RBF))(edited)

*[*5:14 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Y'doin' legwork fer gods now, Seir? *Fancy*"

*[*5:14 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia's about to respond but gets distracted by Urrak's comment. "Gods?" Her eyes swivel back to Seirixori.

*[*5:16 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir gives Ryleigh a pat on the shoulder and whispers, "I mean it, thank you." She looks to Brimeia, "Uh... yes? Did you... were you never around when those conversations happened? I don't remember..."(edited)

*[*5:16 PM*]* DM*:* A human riding a giant elk comes up along the road. He’s wearing shimmering golden scale armor and a great, antlered helmet. He pulls the helmet off to show his deep bronze colored skin, long black hair that’s been braided through with flowers, and a beaming smile.

*[*5:17 PM*]* Urrak*:* "She talks to 'em and about 'em all the time an--*By the face of the One Eyed*" Urrak is transfixed by the giant elk and the man's glimmering armor (edited)

*[*5:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks Moki up and down as if evaluating him.

*[*5:18 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Holy...." Rav's voice is quiet and trails off

*[*5:19 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Huh. I.. definitely somehow missed all that. I *had* been gone a while. Pretty nifty any--" Brimeia's startled by the arrival of the person riding an elk. "Well that's new."

“Hello, friends!” He gracefully dismounts his elk who walks over to drink from the fountain when he pats it on the side. You can see his crossed scimitars on his back before he turns back towards you. He looks at Seir. “You must be Seirixori. I’m Moki. Takara told me about you. Are you ready to travel?”

*[*5:18 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just stares in awe, "That is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen." she whispers, her attention focused on the elk. It takes her a moment to snap out of it and she looks at Moki, "Can I pet it?"

*[*5:20 PM*]* DM*:* "Sure. He likes his neck rubbed." He clicks his tongue and calls, "Fithel?" The elk finishes his drink and walks over to stand in front of Seir.

*[*5:21 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia thinks for a second. "Wait so, Takara's a god, and he's the champion? Then.... that lady earlier.. her skin..."

*[*5:23 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nearly squeals in excitement. She reaches out and rubs the elk's neck, "You are the prettiest thing..." she mumbles followed with, "I want one." She clears her throat, "Uh yes, Hi, sorry. I am Seirixori and totally ready to travel."(edited)

*[*5:23 PM*]* DM*:* He laughs. “You can ride with me and we can talk along the way, or you can travel as you like and we'll talk once we get there."

*[*5:23 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Travel? You're leaving?"

*[*5:24 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "A ride would be amazing." Seir says to him. She looks at Brimeia, "Uh... yes? I mentioned it earlier?"

*[*5:25 PM*]* DM*:* Moki smiles at the rest of them. "Don't worry, I'll have your friend back by nightfall."

*[*5:25 PM*]* Urrak*: "I trust ye..."* Urrak mutters softly

*[*5:26 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "I dunno, I just.. figured the cave was gonna be somewhere nearby? Take care then." Brimeia waves with a smile.

*[*5:26 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Hope you find the lil 'shroom a good place to stretch their feet."

*[*5:26 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles at Seir's excitement but her face hardens when she looks at Moki, "I don't mean to be rude, but I'm sure this is going to sound that way. Take care of her and if you don't - I don't care what god you subscribe to, I will hunt you down and end you."

*[*5:27 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia arches an eyebrow at Ryleigh but doesn't say anything.

*[*5:28 PM*]* DM*:* His smile never falters as he nods to Ryleigh. "Don't worry. Takara would be very upset with me if she came to harm. She promised Mielikki to keep an eye out for her, after all. I'll keep her safe."

*[*5:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods to him and says to Seir, "be safe...." she smiles and continues, "and have fun."

*[*5:29 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir grins, pulling away from the elk, "I'm gonna hug you." she says to Ryleigh and moves to do so, unless told otherwise.

*[*5:30 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh opens her arms to let Seir hug her.(edited)

*[*5:31 PM*]* DM*:* Moki puts his helmet back on and Fithel kneels to let Moki climb atop him. He holds his hand out to Seir to help pull her up behind him.

*[*5:31 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I'll be fine, promise." She whispers. She pulls back and lets Moki help her up, "See you guys later."

*[*5:32 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak waves goodbye, a small smile on her face

*[*5:33 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "See you later Seir! Be safe"

*[*5:33 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia waves too. "Bring us back a souvenir!"

*[*5:33 PM*]* DM*:* Fithel stands and they ride off down the road towards Riverrun.

*[*5:35 PM*]* DM*:* Moki calls back to Seir. "Don't be afraid to hold on tight. Fithel likes to run and it's a long way down."

*[*5:38 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Uh, okay." Seir says, hesitantly doing as he says. "This is so cool." she whispers.

*[*5:39 PM*]* DM*:* He laughs again and Fithel starts racing down the road, stretching his legs.

*[*5:44 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "So...where are we going?" Seir pauses, "Wait, never mind I wouldn't know even if you told me. Uh, how long have you been Takara's champion? How do you even do that? and *why*?"

*[*5:46 PM*]* DM*:* "Full of questions. I like that. We're going to a cave, about... six years or so, she chose me, and... why not?" He laughs again. "What do you know of champions?"

*[*5:47 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "...Uh that you exist?"

*[*5:53 PM*]* DM*:* “Gods are limited in their actions on the Material Plane, so they have to find other ways to enforce their will. Usually, this is done through believers and those they give magic to, like clerics, paladins, druids… Sometimes a god has a favorite, though. Those favorites are Champions. Some are just a title, others are given extra boons. Champions are chosen differently depending on the gods… Witen’s Champion is always chosen through combat. Irseh’s chooses hers every decade during a festival when crafters from across the continent bring their best work for her to judge. Takara… I think she just likes me.” He winks, then continues. “It was actually a Champion of Vydea who created Vyon and established himself as King in Riverrun. He took the name Moonstream to honor her, but it’s like an open secret that he was actually her son, born mortal. Since then, she’s always taken a Moonstream as her Champion.”

*[*5:58 PM*]* Seirixori*:* After a minute of digesting the information Seir responds, "Huh..., I should have left a long time ago, I learn a lot more from strangers than I did with the druids." She pauses, "Or actually asked Mielikki..."

*[*6:04 PM*]* DM*:* "I hear she's not big on sharing information."

*[*6:08 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "No, not really. But..." Seir shrugs, "She has always been kind to me. That's more than I can say for almost everyone I've come across back in Ardabeh."

*[*6:11 PM*]* DM*:* "That's a shame. How do you like it here?"

*[*6:16 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "People don't shut the door in my face or call me names, well as much... not that there's a lot of people in Bellbury right now. We went to Riverrun and that was fun. I got to go into a library! I kind of prefer it here, honestly." She says quietly. "I kind of messed up a few days ago, but I think that's...getting better too. I kind of miss Mielikki and Findarris though."

*[*6:19 PM*]* DM*:* After fifteen, twenty minutes, Fithel veers off the road and takes you cross-country racing, leaving Moki to try to block the stray branches that try to reach out for your face. Soon, though, you come to a clearing. There’s a hill poking up from the otherwise flat ground, but it looks almost like the hill was cut in half, and the other half simply disappeared. The sheer face has a cave opening that immediately descends into the earth.
He dismounts and holds his hand up for Seir. "Here we are!"

*[*6:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Thanks," Seir takes his hand and looks around, "I don't think I've been so excited about a cave before."

*[*6:26 PM*]* DM*:* He smiles and removes his helmet, leaving it with Fithel before gesturing towards the opening. "After you."

*[*6:27 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs and cautiously heads into the cave.

*[*6:27 PM*]* DM*:* As you travel down the slope, gentle enough not to be difficult, but steep enough to be short, you find yourself in an open space about three or four rooms in size, with an added chamber on either side, accessible through gaps in the earthen walls. Moki follows behind.

“She hopes you like it, but she also asked me to let you know that myconids are social creatures and will want to be near others of their kind as they get older.”

*[*6:33 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I was afraid of that." Seir sighs. "I just didn't want them cooped up in the Cask for so long. I just don't where their home is or how long it would take us to get there and check it out before sending them back." She shrugs, "I could get here easily enough every day or so, even take Gunnloda if she wanted, so they're not lonely. Until... until we can find a more permanent place for them." She says sadly. "Thank you for taking me here. I'm sure there's more important things you could be doing."

*[*6:35 PM*]* DM*:* "Why so down? I thought you were having a good day."

*[*6:39 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Sorry," she gives a small smile, "I know they miss home and I don't know how to get them back, but... I'd also miss them if I had to take them back. But I... I know I shouldn't keep them from their own kind if that's how, how they grow." She shrugs again, "I just feel bad wanting to keep them close, I guess."

*[*6:41 PM*]* DM*:* "You love them. It's normal to be conflicted about wanting to be close to them or give them what they need. We all hope we can do both."

*[*6:44 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir just hums, "It's... new." She starts walking around, checking out the rooms.

*[*6:45 PM*]* DM*:* It's empty, filled only with the smell of freshly turned dirt.

*[*6:47 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I probably should have asked them if they wanted a cave. But at least I know where one is now if they want it... and I'll probably have to set some stuff up to keep them safe. Oh I should have thought about that earlier..." She mumbles to herself.

*[*6:57 PM*]* DM*:* He smiles. "You have time to think about it."

*[*7:00 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She nods, "So... Takara mentioned I could do a task of some sort? Maybe?"

*[*7:01 PM*]* DM*:* “Indeed! Your task is to help me clear an area of the forest of fey creatures called quicklings. They’ve been making a nuisance of themselves and, unfortunately, it’s come to this. Tell me, what do you know of fey?”

*[*7:08 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((4 nature lol)) "Uh, about as much as I know... knew about champions."

*[*7:09 PM*]* DM*:* He chuckles. “They’re a type of creature that’s tied closely to nature, and typically from the Feywild plane. Dryads, satyrs, quicklings, fairies, even hags. There are powerful fey, archfey, that rule in courts. There are two groups- the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. The Seelie Court is led by Queen Titania and her king, Oberon. The fey don’t really follow notions of good and evil like we think, but the Seelie Court is by far the more preferable to deal with. On the other side is an archfey whose name has been lost through the ages, but is called the Queen of Air and Darkness. She’s said to be so beautiful that she’s terrifying to perceive. The creatures we’re going to find, quicklings, were created by her. They were a race of lazy creatures until they made the Queen wait. She shrank them and changed their internal timing so they would be fast enough to never be late again. They’re hard to pin down and extremely fast, but fragile. These ones have been warned and given their last chances to vacate, so Takara has asked you, with my help, to clear them from the forest.”

*[*7:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Oh, well. Sounds... interesting. Let's not keep them waiting then." She jokes.

*[*7:26 PM*]* DM*:* He laughs at her joke, then gestures back towards the outside.

*[*7:30 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir makes her way out.

*[*7:31 PM*]* DM*:* They both mount up on Fithel again and take off north into the forest.

*[*7:37 PM*]* DM*:* After some time, Moki slows Fithel. "We should dismount here. They should be somewhere up ahead."

*[*7:40 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir nods and slides off, "So, are we just asking them to go or is it the too late for talking kind of thing?"

*[*7:46 PM*]* DM*:* He drops down too and draws his scimitars. "They've been warned. I don't like to draw my blades often, but in this case, it's warranted."

*[*7:53 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "If you say so." She briefly hesitates and pulls out her staff instead of shifting.

*[*7:57 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She slowly walks forward, not quite sure what she's looking for.

*[*7:59 PM*]* DM*:* As you listen, you can hear laughter up ahead. Tiny voices... sounds like there could be 40 of them by the way it comes from everywhere, or maybe just 3 since those are the most you hear at once.

*[*8:02 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "They don't sound creepy at all." Seir murmurs. Moving ahead quiet as she can not wanting to get herself into trouble.

*[*8:03 PM*]* DM*:* If you're sneaking, roll stealth.

*[*8:04 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((17))

*[*8:06 PM*]* DM*:* You manage to get within sight of the three of them without them noticing! They're there, zipping between the trees, laughing, so fast that you can't even *really* see them. They look like blurs.

*[*8:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir casts barkskin on herself and then takes a few steps forward. "I hear that you've been asked to leave and haven't yet. Very unfortunate." She addresses them. Then shifts into dinoseir and tries to catch one with her teeth and claws.

*[*8:27 PM*]* DM*:* I'll let you get a surprise round, then roll initiative.

*[*8:32 PM*]* DM*:* ...sorry I should have warned you... they're all at disadvantage.

*[*8:31 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((claw 1 - 11, 6. claw 2 - 15, 7. Bite 9,5))

*[*8:32 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((13 init))

*[*8:32 PM*]* DM*:* Her attacks all miss.

*[*8:35 PM*]* DM*:* Moki steps up beside Seir and there's a flurry of attacks as his scimitars flash around. Only one hits, but it's enough to cause the quickling to cry out in pain. (12a, 23 a 5d, 15a)(edited)

*[*8:38 PM*]* DM*:* Quickling 3 attacks the one that hit it. (14a, 24a 8d, 10a)

One of its daggers finds a gap in Moki's armor at his knee.

*[*8:39 PM*]* DM*:* Seir!

*[*8:41 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir growls, annoyed and tries her attacks again. (( c1- 18a, 4dmg c2- 17a, 5d. B-10a))

*[*8:41 PM*]* DM*:* Seir slashes at the quickling twice with her claws, but it dies before she bites open air.

*[*8:42 PM*]* DM*:* The other two quicklings realize what's happening and zip around, darting in to make attacks on each of the two intruders. (What's dinoseir AC w barkskin?)

*[*8:44 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((16))(edited)

*[*8:45 PM*]* DM*:* Quickling 2 slashes at Moki and makes quick jabs at that same spot in his armor (27, 28 crit, 22, 9+10+8d)

Quickling 1 attacks Seir and gets her for 16. (13a, 19, 20, 8+8d)

*[*8:49 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((10 con save for barkskin))

*[*8:49 PM*]* DM*:* 2 of em for 2 sets of damage

*[*8:50 PM*]* Seirixori*:* ((17 for second))

*[*8:50 PM*]* DM*:* Ok!

*[*8:52 PM*]* DM*:* Moki's hurt... but he'll be ok. Except at disadvantage, he misses all his attacks. (12, 15, 11)

*[*8:53 PM*]* DM*:* Fithel though... he's kind of protective and he's gonna come charging in at the first one he sees. (17, 16) He rams it so hard with his antlers that the thing flies across the forest and slams into a tree, its crumpled, shattered, slightly splattered body sinking to the ground.

*[*8:53 PM*]* DM*:* Seir!

*[*8:55 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir stares in awe for a second before she moves to attack the last one. ((miss all the things, 8, 10, 10))(edited)

*[*8:57 PM*]* DM*:* Seir does indeed miss after she moves to the last quickling.

*[*8:58 PM*]* DM*:* Quickling 2 will attack Moki again because it was doing such a good job, this time getting him for 7 damage. (17, 18, 26)

*[*9:00 PM*]* DM*:* Moki's really hurt now, and he just points a finger from his pommels and says "Fall." But of course the quickling ignores him with a 20 wis save.

*[*9:00 PM*]* DM*:* Fithel takes the scenic route before charging quickling 2, but he misses with a 7.

*[*9:00 PM*]* DM*:* Seir!

*[*9:03 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir shifts out of dinoseir and places a hand on Moki's shoulder, "I wanted to get my own elk, not yours." she winces as the joke leaves her lips. ((Cure wounds lvl 2 - 6...))

*[*9:04 PM*]* DM*:* He chuckles a bit and nods a thanks.

*[*9:05 PM*]* DM*:* The quickling gets him for another 7, then he slashes out and takes the last quickling down. (Q: 20, 17, 9 crit fail, M: 21, 7, 15, 9 damage).

*[*9:07 PM*]* DM*:* He takes a breath and smiles at Seir. "Thank you, Seirixori."

*[*9:08 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She shrugs sheepishly, "I'm afraid I'm not very good at landing hits, or curing but I try."(edited)

*[*9:08 PM*]* DM*:* He uses his own lay on hands to heal himself quite a bit, then asks, "Are you hurt?" (30)

*[*9:08 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She shakes her head, "No, I'm fine."

*[*9:10 PM*]* DM*:* "You didn't do too bad. These little guys are *fast*."

*[*9:10 PM*]* DM*:* He wipes the fey blood from his blades and puts his scimitars back in their place on his back.

*[*9:11 PM*]* DM*:* He looks around a bit, then smiles again. "Well, there you have it. One divine quest complete." He winks at her with a grin. "Was it everything you were hoping for?"

*[*9:14 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I didn't really have any expectations, or really low ones? I'm just..." she shrugs, "I'm just glad I got to help. That's all I wanted."

*[*9:15 PM*]* DM*:* "Helping's almost always a good thing. A noble pursuit."

*[*9:22 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir goes over and rubs Fithel's neck, "You're a really handy friend." she barely stops herself from hugging him. "Are there a lot of elks here?"

*[*9:23 PM*]* DM*:* "Oh, he's not really an elk. He's a fey in elk form."(edited)

*[*9:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Really? *That's even cooler*." She tilts her head, studying Fithel. "Well, with enough practice I can be my own elk!" she says excitedly.

*[*9:26 PM*]* DM*:* "I always wondered what that would be like, to be honest."

*[*9:29 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She grins broadly, "I wanted to follow in my mother's footsteps, you know. Be a rogue, or even a ranger. I think that's what she wanted me to try. But... well I ended up with the druids, and I always liked animals more than people." She tilts her head, as if realizing something, "It's a lot of fun and I can put people at ease sometimes. Sometimes even heightened senses. Also the bonus of surviving a bit longer than usual."

*[*9:30 PM*]* DM*:* "You like it then? That's good. Takara wasn't sure if you actually liked the path that was chosen for you."

*[*9:34 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I didn't... not at first." Seir looks away, "I was too angry about a lot of things, the ones who were... forced to teach me didn't make it easy." She looks back, smiling, "I'm not sure I would have been very good at the other things anyway. I kind of stand out too much," She points to her horns, "These past two weeks... well. I've come to like what I've been taught. The animal thing helps a lot. It's my favorite part." she laughs. "When I can control it anyway."

*[*9:36 PM*]* DM*:* He gestures with his head to signal you to walk with him and starts off towards the road you came from, Fithel following behind. "Tell me about your mother?"

*[*9:46 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir's silent for a while, but she finally responds with a snort, "I don't really know where to start. I miss her. She is... was my whole life for a long time. I feel like I learned a lot from her but... I also feel like I didn't learn nearly enough." She's quiet again as she thinks. "She kept me from a lot of the bad, I didn't know from how much until she was gone. After... After the horn thing she wouldn't let me talk to any of the others unless she was around. Which was fine for a while because I didn't want to be around anyone for a long time after that. " she stops and shakes her head, chuckling. "No one's really asked me before. No one I wanted to answer."

*[*9:47 PM*]* DM*:* "Overprotected from both of them, huh? I'm sure they did it because they love you."

*[*9:51 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Both of them?"(edited)

*[*9:52 PM*]* DM*:* "Your mother and Mielikki? At least that's what Takara thinks, but I don't think I'm supposed to tell you that."

*[*9:56 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Oh. I suppose you're right." She shakes her head, "I like Takara a lot more now than I did." she laughs a little, but then rolls her eyes, "Why does everyone feel like they have to hide things from me? How does that protect me? it just makes me feel stupid later on..."

*[*9:58 PM*]* DM*:* He chuckles. "I know what it sounds like after I just said that, but that's what Takara thinks too. She thinks you should be allowed to know what you want to know and decide for yourself. It's not her decision, though."

*[*10:03 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Why couldn't *she* find me nearly dead?" Seir jokes. "Well, at least one of them is actually answering me when I ask now." She's quiet again, thinking. "I didn't think I'd miss her. Mielikki. I just wanted to get away from everyone, but I could always go back, but now... well when I *couldn't* go back voluntarily..." She slouches, "Sometimes I forget she's a god. She's just... a friend, I think."(edited)

*[*10:08 PM*]* DM*:* He thinks for a minute. "I'm not sure I could say that I *forget* Takara's a god." He shrugs and checks the sky like he's checking the time. "Well... a paladin's job is never done. Shall we return you to your friends?"

*[*10:11 PM*]* Seirixori*:* She nods after a moment of hesitation.

*[*10:13 PM*]* DM*:* "What's wrong?"

*[*10:17 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "I'm not really sure friend is the right word. I've been around them for 2 weeks and you a couple of hours and you have listened to me more than most of them." She just shakes her head, "The last couple of days reminded me too much of the forest with the druids and I don't wish to deal with that kind of... Feeling anymore."

*[*10:19 PM*]* DM*:* "That's a shame. Life is easier, *better*, with friends and love and laughter."

*[*10:24 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir grins, "Paladins and fluffy words." She nods, "I am learning that. Want to race back?" She laughs and shifts into a horse.(edited)

*[*10:25 PM*]* DM*:* Fithel makes his moose honk call noise and paws the ground, nudging Moki. "Ok, ok! You're on." He mounts Fithel and you both take off towards Bellbury.

*[*10:35 PM*]* DM*:* Seir is a bit faster than Fithel, so she wins the race.

*[*10:39 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir shifts back once they've made it, "Oh that was fun, I should do it more often!" she grins as they come up after her.(edited)

*[*10:43 PM*]* DM*:* "I'm afraid the elk is built for power over speed. Well chosen, Seirixori."

*[*10:45 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "He had a little extra weight, too." She teases. "Thank you, for today. It was a nice break from the other stuff here."

*[*10:46 PM*]* DM*:* He dismounts and removes his helmet again before turning his million candle smile Seir's way. "It was my pleasure. I'm glad you had fun. It *is* my job, after all."

*[*10:49 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "The Paladin of fun?" She laughs.

*[*10:50 PM*]* DM*:* He laughs. "We're not all duty and darkness driven. My path is guided by kindness, mercy, hope, and beauty."

*[*10:48 PM*]* DM*:* Nolanos appears near the fountain.

*[*10:49 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir gives a short wave when she sees Nolanos.

*[*10:51 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "*Fancy*. Well, you certainly have the beauty part down."(edited)

*[*10:50 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos immediately waves back to Seir when he sees her " Hey Seir! Who's this?"(edited)

*[*10:51 PM*]* DM*:* Nolanos, you see Seir talking to a human with long black hair braided through with flowers, wearing gold dragonscale armor and holding an antlered helm, standing next to a giant elk.

*[*10:53 PM*]* Nolanos*:* As Nolanos takes in this new human, he kind of subconsciously slows down his steps because wow. This person is... wow.

*[*10:54 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Shaking his head a bit, he picks his pace back up and offers his hand, "hi, I'm Nolanos. What's your name?"(edited)

*[*10:56 PM*]* DM*:* He takes it and shakes with a firm grip and a broad grin. "Moki. Pleasure to meet you."

*[*11:01 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Moki?" His brows furrow for a moment before the recognition hits. "Moki! Of course! Seir, you told me about him! Takara's champion right?"(edited)

*[*11:01 PM*]* DM*:* "That's me."

*[*11:02 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Right. So what's that like?"

*[*11:03 PM*]* DM*:* He smiles. "It's nice. I meet lots of people, spread joy, help where I can, and I get to be on a goddess's preferred list."

*[*11:03 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Sounds nice," he smiles.

*[*11:04 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Right, well, I'm going to go talk to Stool and then look for Gunnloda. I'm not really sure what everyone else is doing." She says to Nolanos. Then turns back to Moki, stepping forward to pet Fithel again, "Thanks again. Was there anything else?"

*[*11:05 PM*]* DM*:* "Nope, I think I covered everything. It was a pleasure to meet you, Seirixori. You too, Nolanos." He smiles and bows to Seir, then throws a wink at Nolanos as he stands. "I'm sure I'll run into you again if you decide to stay in the area."(edited)

*[*11:07 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "You too!" she gives Fithel a quick hug and an awkward wave to Moki. "I'll probably be around, I'm sure."(edited)

*[*11:07 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "You don't have to go, Seir..." When Moki winks at him, he blushes a bit, but says "Likewise, it was really nice to meet you."(edited)

*[*11:08 PM*]* DM*:* He puts his helmet on and hops up on Fithel as the elk kneels for him. "Until next time, then." Fithel rears a little, showing off as he turns around, and heads down the road.

*[*11:09 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "That was the coolest elk."

*[*11:09 PM*]* Nolanos*:* When Moki leaves, he turns back to Seir and asks "So how was your adventure together, Seir?"(edited)

*[*11:10 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "It was nice talking to him. And I got to help out with something. So... Good?" She says after a moment, walking to the Cask, waving for Nolanos to follow her. "I just want to talk to Stool real quick. About the cave thing."(edited)

*[*11:11 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Sure, can I come?"

*[*11:11 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Yeah, if you want."

*[*11:11 PM*]* DM*:* As you walk inside, you're hit with the smell of spice and cooking meat.

*[*11:11 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Gladly," he says as he starts walking

*[*11:12 PM*]* Nolanos*:* "Oh man, does that smell good...."

*[*11:18 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir walks to the kitchen.

*[*11:19 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda's in there cooking. She gives Seir a big smile when she sees her. "Welcome back, love."

*[*11:20 PM*]* Nolanos*:* Nolanos follows Seir into the kitchen, " hi Gunnloda"

*[*11:20 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Hi, *tor beag*." Seir says with a slightly pinker face and a grin. "I'll be right back, I gotta talk to Stool. To see if they actually want to stay in a cave or not." She gives Gunnloda a quick hug and a kiss before heading down the stairs.

*[*11:21 PM*]* DM*:* Stool: "Seirixori!"

*[*11:25 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "Stool!" she sits down next to them with a grin. "So, I'm not sure if you want to or not, but I found a cave you can stay in. If you want more space than this little room."

*[*11:27 PM*]* DM*:* "Oh, really? Will you be there? Or Gunnloda? Both of you? I *told* you that you'd find each other again, didn't I? Because you're *family*. Is... is my family at the cave?"

*[*11:33 PM*]* Seirixori*:* "You did. You're so smart." She takes a deep breath, "Well, we won't *live* there. At least..." she tilts her head, like she hadn't actually thought of that as a viable option. "at least not right away. We're still trying to get people back to Bellbury. But it's not far and we can go by everyday." She takes another deep breath, closing her eyes briefly, "No, you're family... Well I haven't figured out where they are yet. I want to make sure it's safe for you to go back before taking you there. I just thought... Well it's pretty cramped down here so, if you wanted more space to move around, the cave is available."(edited)

*[*11:41 PM*]* DM*:* "Oh..." They kind of slump a little. "That's ok. I don't need much space. I don't really move much. I just want to be close to you."

*[*11:44 PM*]* Seirixori*:* Seir sniffles, a little emotional, "If you're sure. Just let me know if you change your mind." She hugs them and chats about mundane stuff before heading back up.(edited)

## Back to the group

*[*5:37 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Well that was...somethin'." she pauses a moment, watching Seir and Moki ride away. She finally snaps back to reality when the weight of the lute in her hand registers in her mind. "*Shit*, right--" she turns to the rest of the group "Well, since yer all in one place..." she takes a breath "I need ye t' come with me t' Poni's and convince th' spellguard t' let us use the portal." she says this incredibly quickly, like the very tiefling that just left.

*[*5:39 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Urrak...." Ryleigh's brow furrows and she *tries* not to sound too discouraging, "You know they may not allow us to, I just want you to be prepared for that if it happens. You can't get angry if it does...or, well...."

*[*5:40 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia cocks an eyebrow at Urrak. "So kind of you to ask. We'll just march into Poni's and punch the daylights out of those spell people sure."

*[*5:41 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak looks away, a bit embarrassed. "I...I understand that. But I'm willin' t'' do whatever it takes t' get back int'a that fuckin' basement." She shoots Brimeia a look "Y'don't want t' try an' fight these guys, Bri. Trust me. As much as I'd really *really* like t'."

*[*5:42 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "They don't want us anywhere near the portal, and we would never stand a chance against them in a fight. Why now, Urrak? What changed?" she says, eyeing the lute(edited)

*[*5:44 PM*]* Urrak*:* She grips the neck of the lute a bit tighter. "Mal's gone. All her things are here, an' she ain't. She must've poofed while we were in th' keep. So...I'm gonna find 'er." she holds the lute in front of her "With this."(edited)

*[*5:47 PM*]* Urrak*:* She takes a breath, relaxing her arms but still cradling the instrument "Y'don't have t' come with me. I know last time we talked t' them we all got played but...I would greatly appreciate th' help. Especially considering I don't know what we'll find."

*[*5:49 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps up to Urrak but doesn't touch her, "we can try, alright?" She turns to the rest of the group and says *very* forcefully, "it will *not* come to a fight with the Spellguard. If you have an issue with that, than I recommend you stay here."

*[*5:49 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "What...what happens when she poofs?"

*[*5:51 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'm assumin' same as us but...She told me that she was afraid of poofin' an' *' endin' up in the wrong body '*." she shakes her head "I'm just hopin' she hasn't if...when we find her."(edited)

*[*5:51 PM*]* DM*:* A dwarven man with a magnificent dark colored beard that falls over his blackened steel scale armor, covered by a red Spellguard tabard, comes rushing up the main road into the town square. His hammer slaps against his leg as he comes to a stop, glancing around. Seeing you all standing outside, he rushes towards you.(edited)

*[*5:52 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps to the front of the group, unsure of why the man is rushing at them.

*[*5:56 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Maybe they finally need us...or everything exploded again" Rav whispers

*[*5:58 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak whips the lute behind her back and braces herself for the dwarf's approach

*[*6:02 PM*]* DM*:* He comes up, out of breath and flushed. "Please.... they're... help.... Akthor that's a run...."

*[*6:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Fuckin'--it's one o' the Spellguards" she kneels down to him "Breathe, wizard. What's happened?"

*[*6:06 PM*]* DM*:* "Lightning... please, Qarius and Kildarien are back at the college. They need help."

*[*6:06 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Of course." Ryleigh takes off down the street towards Poni's.

*[*6:07 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods to the dwarf "We'll take care of it." she pats the man on the back and follows after Ryleigh

*[*6:09 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "This is not going to end well...what happened, Sir?"

*[*6:10 PM*]* DM*:* He takes a breath and groans, turning to follow the others back to Poni's. "Come on then. Tell ya there."

*[*6:10 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav runs to follow the others

*[*6:13 PM*]* DM*:* You all rush back to Poni's. The outside, usually manned by one of the Spellguard, is empty, as is the basement when you head down there. The portal is active, and as you remember, that means it should be focused on Poni, but what you see through the image is Kaitryl, the head of the Spellguard, lying on the ground, probably dead. Behind her, you can see two other Spellguard, also lying on the ground. There’s a faint flickering, but no other motion.(edited)

*[*6:14 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((perception?))

*[*6:14 PM*]* DM*:* For what?

*[*6:14 PM*]* DM*:* Sure.

*[*6:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((9))

*[*6:16 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((13))

*[*6:16 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "This is bad, really bad." She looks to the others, "should we all go in?"

*[*6:16 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin comes hobbling down the stairs a minute after you, still huffing. When he looks into the portal, he drops to his knees. "No... Godsdammit, I was too late!"

*[*6:17 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I think she was electrocuted" Rav can barely choke out

*[*6:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh frowns at the Dwarf and swallows.

*[*6:20 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "We have to get Poni back...we have to save them"

*[*6:20 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak places the lute on a nearby table. When she comes back to the group as addresses the Spellguard "If there are any left, we'll bring 'em back."(edited)

*[*6:20 PM*]* Brimeia*:* As much as Brimeia found the spellguard distasteful, her expression is somber at the sight of the fallen on the other side. She nods at Urrak's statement.

*[*6:21 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Everyone ready?" She steels herself and steps into the portal.

*[*6:21 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Here we go again..." Urrak follows

*[*6:21 PM*]* DM*:* "I'm coming with you!" he says, but he waits for most of you to enter before doing the same.

*[*6:22 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav closes her eyes briefly before stepping in

*[*6:22 PM*]* DM*:* Safika hops through the portal after Ryleigh.

*[*6:23 PM*]* DM*:* When you step through the portal, you find yourself in the room with Kaitryl’s body. There are three others in Spellguard tabards and a mage in Ebedine olive green robes marking her as an evoker. There’s also a sixth body on the floor in robes with strange blue tattoos coursing over her skin.

There’s an open door to the south that leads down a long hall and a door to the east.

The room is stone and is dominated by three tables and three spires of electrical energy. On two of the tables, flesh golems are laid out, one is inactive, but the other sits up as you enter the room. Roll for initiative.

*[*6:24 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((20))

*[*6:24 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* ((8))

*[*6:24 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((12))

*[*6:28 PM*]* Brimeia*:* ((20))

*[*6:30 PM*]* DM*:* So Bri's first. Ravaphine's on deck.

*[*6:34 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia lets out a yell as she rages and runs forward to swing at the grotesque creature.

*[*6:35 PM*]* Brimeia*:* ((22, 7 dmg))

*[*6:36 PM*]* DM*:* The greataxe swings forward and thunks into the golem's meaty side. A gross blackish ichor oozes from the wound when Bri pulls her axe back.

*[*6:37 PM*]* DM*:* The two spectral human warriors come out of Bri's body and take up positions on either side of the golem, axes at the ready.

*[*6:37 PM*]* DM*:* Ravaphine! (Safika's next, then Urrak)

*[*6:38 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav squints to get a better look at the creatures. "These things are some freaky Frankenstein's monsters...put together from gods know what" Rav casts web at both of them, just in case

*[*6:40 PM*]* DM*:* Move or bonus action?

*[*6:41 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((10 arcana check, end turn))(edited)

*[*6:42 PM*]* DM*:* Safika's going to bounce over the empty table and toss a dagger at the golem, shouting at Ryleigh, "Focus his torso, Ry!" (adv on your next attack) ((15, 21))(edited)

*[*6:43 PM*]* DM*:* The dagger sinks deep into its neck and more ichor oozes out.

*[*6:43 PM*]* DM*:* Urrak! (Elthin, then Ryleigh next)

*[*6:45 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak follows Brimeia's lead and runs at the golems. She swings her greatsword at what she thinks the middle of it is ((25,13)) (end)(edited)

*[*6:45 PM*]* DM*:* The sword leaves a gash across its torso, more ichor flying from the blade tip.

*[*6:47 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin will cast Magic Missile at the golem. (17 damage)

*[*6:48 PM*]* DM*:* Ryleigh! (Golem's next, then Bri)

*[*6:49 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh’s throat constricts and her heart starts to race as the flesh golem rises from the table. At Safika’s words, she grips Dawnbringer tightly and sets her jaw - charging the creature - thrusting Dawnbringer into its chest. ((25 hit, 9dmg))

*[*6:50 PM*]* DM*:* It howls and the ichor that oozes sizzles as it contacts Dawnbringer's blade.

*[*6:52 PM*]* DM*:* The golem avoids being trapped in the web and brings both its meaty fists down towards Brimeia. One fist connects for 9 damage, 4 after rage. (13 a, 18 a, 4 d)

*[*6:53 PM*]* DM*:* The columns of blue sparking energy flare out. Urrak, Brimeia, and Ryleigh, give me dex saves. Bri can have advantage.

*[*6:53 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* ((8))

*[*6:54 PM*]* Brimeia*:* ((18))

*[*6:54 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((23, nat 20))

*[*6:55 PM*]* DM*:* The whole area in and around the tables becomes engulfed by a short spark of ball lightning, engulfing the golem, Urrak, Bri, and Ryleigh for a short moment. Urrak and Bri take 8 lightning damage and Ryleigh takes 16. You notice that some of the golem's wounds have stopped oozing ichor.

*[*6:58 PM*]* DM*:* The lightning blast also destroyed the webs.

*[*6:55 PM*]* DM*:* Bri! (Rav's next)

*[*6:56 PM*]* DM*:* The ancestors fade, though.

*[*6:58 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Did it just stop bleeding?" Brimeia grumbles between gritted teeth. She takes another swing at the creature.

*[*6:59 PM*]* Brimeia*:* ((15 a, 11 d))(edited)

*[*6:59 PM*]* DM*:* It starts bleeding again as Bri's axe hits it in the shoulder.

*[*7:00 PM*]* DM*:* Rav! (Safika, then Urrak next)

*[*7:00 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav casts firebolt at the creature

*[*7:00 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((21a, 9d))

*[*7:01 PM*]* DM*:* The fire hits it and it howls in pain again.

*[*7:01 PM*]* DM*:* The... lightning?

*[*7:01 PM*]* DM*:* Sure.

*[*7:01 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((24 arcana))

*[*7:04 PM*]* DM*:* Safika's going to maneuver around again, then toss another dagger (25a, 20d)

It has matching daggers on either side of his neck now, that look kinda like bolts.

*[*7:04 PM*]* DM*:* Urrak!

*[*7:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak will take another swing at the meatman with her greatsword ((8, 12, nat 1))(edited)

*[*7:06 PM*]* DM*:* Unfortunately, her greatsword catches on the pillar of lightning instead, and she takes 2 lightning damage as the lightning courses down the blade.

*[*7:07 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin, though, steps up and puts the creature down with a fire bolt before it has a chance to recover. (16a, 4 d)

*[*7:07 PM*]* DM*:* End of initiative.

*[*7:08 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh stumbles backward, away from the creature.

*[*7:08 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak shakes her arms out as if trying to shake off the electricity from her skin. "F*uckin'* hell..." she catches Ryleigh's stumble out of the corner of her eye(edited)

*[*7:11 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak moves towards Ryleigh as if to try and catch her "Whoa there, Ry. Y'alright?"

*[*7:11 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shakes her head "yes" but doesn't actually answer. She starts walking from body to body to see if anyone is still alive.

*[*7:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* ((7 investigation))

*[*7:12 PM*]* DM*:* Safika kind of shadows Ryleigh, but doesn't address or move to touch her at all.

*[*7:09 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Why were these created?" Rav turns to Elthin. "I think she might have made them" her eyes trail to the prone wizard. "...but for what reason"

*[*7:10 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Can we move before we get zapped again?"

*[*7:10 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav searches for Poni

*[*7:10 PM*]* DM*:* Investigation.

*[*7:10 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((12 inv))

*[*7:11 PM*]* DM*:* Investigation.

*[*7:12 PM*]* DM*:* Bri and Urrak staying where they are?

*[*7:13 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak looks carefully at the creature with morbid curiosity(edited)

*[*7:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav looks at kaitryl's body and checks to see if she's still breathing, or conducting electricity

*[*7:14 PM*]* DM*:* Ok... Bri and Urrak, dex saves.

*[*7:14 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((17))

*[*7:14 PM*]* Brimeia*:* ((18))

*[*7:15 PM*]* DM*:* Both take 9 lightning damage as the pillars flare out again.

*[*7:17 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak stumbles back and yelps in pain. "Fuckin' *kaodo ad khad nadholdidkavk rink ad kik*" she moves away from the golems(edited)

*[*7:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* As Ryleigh walks to each of the bodies, shes quietly sings a prayer of passing. Something catches Ryleigh's eye on the inactive Golem and she moves over to it.(edited)

*[*7:17 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh drops her shield in surprise and it clatters to the floor. She slowly backs away from the golem, eyes wide.

*[*7:18 PM*]* DM*:* Safika: "Ry? You ok?"

*[*7:19 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav kneels down next to kaitryl's body and places a hand over hers. "*In peace may you leave the shore. In love may you find the next. Safe passage on your travels until our final journey on the ground. May we meet again.*" she whispers in elvish before picking up Poni

*[*7:19 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia grunts with annoyance at the shock. "Make sure that ugly mug is dead," she shouts over at Urrak. "Did we find what we need? Let's get out of here as soon as we can."

*[*7:19 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Poni. You in there?" She says to the stick

*[*7:20 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "Oh, it's you again. I suppose that I'd rather that than be left here with a bunch of rotting corpses."

*[*7:21 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Poni, and to think, I may have missed you." she puts him in her bag before turning to her companions. "Urrak? Bri? Everyone okay?"

*[*7:21 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "Hey wait!"

*[*7:19 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin's looking over the bodies, checking for survivors.

*[*7:20 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "They still alive, dwarf?"

*[*7:20 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh startles, forgetting the others were there. "I.." she looks into Safika's eyes and says, "no" before her taking her hand in comfort.

*[*7:21 PM*]* DM*:* He looks up with a frown, barely keeping tears from leaking from his eyes, and shakes his head. "We need to bring them back. Maybe they can be raised."

*[*7:22 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Not everyone..." Urrak looks down at the fallen spellguards "Didn't...can't Kendall raise the dead?" she looks to Rav

*[*7:23 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin sniffles. "Ebedine has someone for... emergencies. Spellguard are guaranteed at least one attempted raise if killed in the line of duty."

*[*7:24 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "I'm fine. Ryleigh, you good to get out of grab one of the magic people and get out of here or you need a minute?"

*[*7:25 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav kneels down next to Elthin and places a hand on his shoulder. "They'll be okay, we just have to have hope. Now, should we all head back to Poni's with the spellguards before we turn into barbeque kebabs?"

*[*7:27 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak kneels and slings Kaitryl's body over her shoulders "Let's go, then."

*[*7:27 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I'm...I'm fine." Ryleigh says and she lets go of Safika's hand and grabs the human in heavy armor.(edited)

*[*7:27 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia scoops Isen up. "Yes, let's." Looking to Ryleigh, she nods. "Alright then."

*[*7:27 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin grabs one of the humans.(edited)

*[*7:28 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav scoops up the last person. "Let's go home. Everyone link up"

*[*7:29 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak walks over and places a hand on her shoulder

*[*7:30 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh touches one of the others.

*[*7:30 PM*]* DM*:* When Rav pulls Poni back out, he says, "WAIT. You shoved me in that pocket before *listening*. There's a component here. It was on a shelf, probably in a storage closet."

*[*7:30 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sets her free hand on Urrak

*[*7:31 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "LATER, YOU NOB."

*[*7:31 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Rav, push the button."

*[*7:31 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Can we return the bodies and then come back here?"

*[*7:31 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "We'll come back for it once we drop them off, Poni." Ryleigh voice is lined with anger - not at Poni.(edited)

*[*7:31 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "Do you really want to be teleported randomly somewhere here? The arch isn't fixed, remember?"

*[*7:32 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh turns to the spellguard dwarf, "how long do they have before the ritual can no longer be preformed?"(edited)

*[*7:33 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "You really don't care about anyone but yourself, do you ya stick?" Brimeia shakes her head and spits.

*[*7:33 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin: "I don't know for sure. A week?"

*[*7:34 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "Oh shove it, you overgrown strawberry. Look, there's a door *right there*. It's probably in there and you just don't want to look."

*[*7:35 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh puts the body down. "Then lets get the component first. Besides, I think I have some unfinished business here." Her voice is determined and angry.

*[*7:36 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "What do you mean?"

*[*7:36 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak gently puts Kaity's body down. When she streghtens up there's a concerned look on her face

*[*7:36 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "What." Brimeia stares. "We gotta get these people out of here. We can come back right after we get the spellguys out."

*[*7:38 PM*]* Urrak*:* "They ain't exactly gettin' less dead, Bri. The more pieces we can get of Poni's mad machine the better, in th' long run."(edited)

*[*7:38 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "No." Ryleigh answers Brimeia and chooses not to answer Ravaphine. She walks to the east door, "Safika, would you make sure there aren't any traps?"

*[*7:39 PM*]* DM*:* Safika steps up to the door and says quietly, "Sure." After a quick look, she steps back. "All clear." (14 investigation)

*[*7:40 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pushes the door open and walks through it - not waiting for the others.

*[*7:40 PM*]* DM*:* Well, she can't walk in, because it's a closet full of shelves.

*[*7:40 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "And if someone comes along and hauls them off? Or that.. THING wakes up?" Brimeia sounds exasperated. "It would take but a minute to drop them off. I don't understand why you all can't -- GODS!" She huffs as Ryleigh walks off.

*[*7:44 PM*]* DM*:* The shelves have many items. There's a handful of different colored potions, a scroll, a pack, and an instrument inside that looks like a lute. There's a whole shelf of books, and the component itself.

*[*7:45 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav places the body down and walks behind Ryleigh. "Won't you look at that" she keeps poni in her hand

*[*7:45 PM*]* Urrak*:* ((18 per on the lute))

*[*7:46 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sighs. "What is it?"

*[*7:46 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks away from the closet and towards the south door. She peers down the hallway.

*[*7:47 PM*]* DM*:* It looks like an empty hallway.

*[*7:47 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav takes the component and places it in her bag. ((inv on the books?))

*[*7:47 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak takes the lute ~~for shits and giggles~~ because it looks expensive. She places it in her bag(edited)

*[*7:48 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((19 inv))

*[*7:49 PM*]* DM*:* You go to flip through the books and the first thing you notice is that they're leather bound... but it's not like... cow leather. Inside are instructions, the history of construct creation, and a journal from the person who made these... or at least one of them.

*[*7:52 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav looks very uncomfortable but she pockets the stuff anyway, along with the potions, scroll, and pack

*[*7:50 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shifts uncomfortably.

*[*7:51 PM*]* Urrak*:* "We got th' component? Let's get th' hells outta here."

*[*7:51 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps into the hallway.

*[*7:53 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "You found it? Then let's get out of here! Where's the paladin wandering off to?"

*[*7:53 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Ryleigh, we got the component. It's time to go. As much as I would like to see what else this place has around"

*[*7:54 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks over her shoulder - torn. She knows what she *should* do and what she *wants* to do. She takes another step down the hallway.

*[*7:55 PM*]* DM*:* Safika walks up to Ryleigh, but doesn't touch her. "Ry? Where're you going?"

*[*7:56 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak looks over to Ryleigh and Safika, watching their interaction

*[*7:56 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Hey! Weren't you getting all mad at us for wandering off recklessly last time?"

*[*7:57 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Talk to us, Ryleigh. You know this isn't fair. If there is something you need to check out here, we can help. Just talk to us"

*[*7:59 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh swallows and her step falters at Safika's voice, "I..." She looks at the others and then back down the hallway. Ryleigh closes her eyes and takes a breath. She steps back into the room, silently lifting the armored human onto her shoulder, "lets go" she says, looking at none them.

*[*8:01 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sighs with relief and nods. "Rav?"

*[*8:01 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav grips Poni and tries not to break him in half. "Whatever our fearless leader wants us to do"

*[*8:02 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak walks over to Kaityl and picks her up slowly. She keeps her eyes loosely on Ryleigh and addresses Ravaphine "Aye, let's go" she places a firm hand on the elf's shoulder

*[*8:02 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* She picks up the body and makes sure everyone is touching, before pushing Poni's button

*[*8:02 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sets her free hand on the nearest person.

*[*8:03 PM*]* DM*:* You all show up in Poni's basement with a bunch of dead people.

*[*8:03 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Where are we taking them, Elthin?"

*[*8:04 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin: "I-- I don't know. Here's fine? I have to contact Qarius. Or Kildarien."

*[*8:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak sets the dwarf woman down "They aren't here?"

*[*8:06 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh puts the body down and walks over to Safika, taking her hand to ground herself.

*[*8:07 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav places the body down and lines them all up next to each other before tiding them up with presti a few times

*[*8:07 PM*]* DM*:* "No, they left us to finish gathering the components and went back to their duties at Ebedine. He checks in every day."

*[*8:08 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sets the person she has down, relieved to have gotten them all to safety finally. It settles her considerably.

*[*8:08 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "Has Mr. Stuffy Pants checked in today?"

*[*8:09 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav walks up to the arch with the new component in tow

*[*8:10 PM*]* DM*:* There are more components sitting there. Nothing else has been put together yet.

*[*8:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* “I’ve seen the brand those golem wore. They were attacking towns in Ascus.” Ryleigh’s staring at her and Safika’s hands as she offers this information to all of you.

*[*8:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav begins to mend the pieces together left on the table ((15 int))(edited)

*[*8:13 PM*]* DM*:* Safika squeezes Ry's hand.

*[*8:14 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia turns at the sound of Ryleigh's voice, surprised. After a pause, she responds, "Something personal, then? Something pretty bad?"

*[*8:14 PM*]* DM*:* It takes a minute, but Rav manages to fit the pieces together except for what looks like maybe a 5" gap.

*[*8:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* "If we can, we'll go back." Urrak walks over to a table and exchanges the fancy lute for Malica's lovingly worn one. "Anyone have a potion or somethin' I'd rather not be this beat up before walkin' int' another dungeon."

*[*8:17 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks like shes about to answer Brimeia but decides not to once Urrak has spoken.

*[*8:18 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "We can try to go back, if you want"

*[*8:19 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "...are you all mental? First you want to leave, then you want to stay, then leave, now go back?"

*[*8:19 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia notices and glares for a moment at Urrak before letting it go. "You should get patched up first before we go. If it's that important, we should go in in good shape. Make sure we succeed in... whatever it is."

*[*8:20 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "No, I..." Ryleigh restrains herself. When she speaks again, she sounds very much like her paladin self, "No, we can't take on something like that. It's a fight for another day."

*[*8:21 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "How many components do you think are left, Poni? Look guys, the archway is almost complete..."

*[*8:21 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "Can't be many. One or two, probably."

*[*8:21 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia looks surprised at the response. "Well.. ok, if you're sure... but I think everyone's willing to help if you needed it."

*[*8:22 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I'm not waitin' another day. If ye don't want t' come y' don't have t'. I told ye that before." she softens her expression "I'm sorry, Ry. I gotta do this ." she walks over to Rav and Bri "Same offer goes t' two of you."(edited)

*[*8:23 PM*]* DM*:* Elthin suddenly stiffens like he remembered something and starts looking through Kaitryl's pouches until he finds a stone. It's very similar to the one Gunnloda has, if you saw that one. He closes his eyes for a moment, then relaxes. "They'll be here soon."

*[*8:24 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods to Brimeia and says to Urrak, "put her lute on there, let's see where she is."

*[*8:25 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav puts the lute on the sensor and pushes the button

*[*8:27 PM*]* DM*:* The portal fizzes to life and you see... Malica. Sitting on a stone floor in plain clothes. Her back's against a stone wall, and there are bars to either side of her.She lifts her head and lets it fall against the stone behind her and you can see dried tear tracks running down her face.

*[*8:28 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "She's been jailed."

*[*8:28 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Fuck..." Urrak's eyes search the portal and focus on Malica's face. Without another word she steps through the portal

*[*8:29 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia sighs when Urrak steps through without warning. "Guess we're going then."

*[*8:29 PM*]* Brimeia*:* "So much for healing up."

*[*8:29 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Urrak, no!" Ryleigh yells as Urrak steps through the portal.(edited)

*[*8:32 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Dammit" Rav steps into the portal

*[*8:33 PM*]* Brimeia*:* Brimeia steps in too.

*[*8:33 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh let's go of Safika's hand, "idiots, we don't know anything about this yet!" Ryleigh steps through the portal after the others.(edited)

*[*8:37 PM*]* DM*:* As you step through, you find yourself in a town, maybe a little bigger than Bellbury, crowded with all sorts of people. There are buildings, inns, taverns, all under a grey sky.

*[*8:39 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((any signs with the town name?))

*[*8:39 PM*]* DM*:* Not that you can see. You ported to the middle of town. You'd usually find welcome signs at the edges.

*[*8:39 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around for Urrak, once she find her she steps infront of Urrak to halt her progress, "Urrak, stop. We need more information before we go barging into this city's prison."

*[*8:40 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak furrows her brow and clenches her jaw tight. After a beat she says "...Yer right."

*[*8:41 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav greets a random passerby. "Hello, excuse me. I was wondering what the name of this town is? I've never been here before and my friends and I stumbled upon it"

*[*8:42 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh breathes in relief when Urrak agrees.(edited)

*[*8:43 PM*]* DM*:* The person looks a little confused, but answers, "Westband."

*[*8:43 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh interjects, "and which continent are we on?"

*[*8:44 PM*]* DM*:* "Uh... Conti-- um. Alderrath's the country? I don't know what a contunun is."

*[*8:45 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Westband! This is where Cyan is...was from"

*[*8:46 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Aye it is." Urrak places the lute into her bag

*[*8:46 PM*]* DM*:* Man: "Cyan? That's that blue haired lyre player, yeah? She's real pretty."

*[*8:46 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh raises an eyebrow at the man, "Sir, could you tell us where the jail is?"

*[*8:48 PM*]* DM*:* He kind of looks around like he's gotta orient himself the right way. "Uhh... yeah... it's... you go down this way til you hit the Donkey. That's a pub. Great beer there. Then you go... uh... west? If you're coming out of the doors, you take a right. Then you go down til you see the jail. Had to go pull my mates outta the drunk tank a couple times before."

*[*8:50 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak looks to Ryleigh and then to the man "Thank ye, sir. Well, what's our next move?"

*[*8:51 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "We should probably stop at the Donkey, see what information we can dig about Malica and *why* she might have been jailed."

*[*8:52 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak flexes her hands at her sides. "Alright then. Let's go."

*[*8:52 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh leads the way, in the direction the man told them to go.

*[*8:53 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "If one of us wants to go and save her with poni, I can make you invisible. But we would have to all go back to Bellbury first"

*[*8:54 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I know it's dangerous"

*[*8:55 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Let's see what we can find out first. I think you'll find that I can be *very* persuasive." Ryleigh flashes Ravaphine a smile as they walk in the right direction.

*[*8:59 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak follows behind the paladin. Once they reach the tavern she looks around inside for one of the more *intoxicated* patrons

*[*9:01 PM*]* DM*:* It's like... midday, so there's a lot of *people* eating their lunch, but none really look drunk.

*[*9:02 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh approaches the bar counter and takes a seat.

*[*9:04 PM*]* DM*:* A human woman steps up. "What'll it be?"

*[*9:05 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Water, please." Ryleigh smiles and also asks, "and what's on the menu for lunch?"(edited)

*[*9:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak follows a step or two behind. She gets to the bar and stands next to Ryleigh, though her back is turned. She continues to scan the rest of the tavern, a hand resting on the bar behind her. The bartender's voice reaches her ears and she says over her shoulder "An' an ale fer me, please."(edited)

*[*9:07 PM*]* DM*:* "Sausage, sprouts, and cornbread."

*[*9:07 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Sounds great, I'll have that." Ryleigh tilts her head at the woman, "and my friends here will too."

*[*9:08 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav grabs a seat at the bar

*[*9:09 PM*]* DM*:* "That'll be 3 silvers for lunch and drinks for all of you." She heads back to the back to inform the kitchen, then returns.

*[*9:11 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pulls out 5 silvers instead of 3 and says, "you know I was wondering if you've seen a dark haired, half-elf pass through here lately? Her name is Malica."

*[*9:12 PM*]* DM*:* "I hate to tell you this, but there's a lot of dark haired half-elves around here and I don't ask them their names mostly."

*[*9:14 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Completely understandable, it is busy in here. Would you mind if I asked some of your patrons?"

*[*9:14 PM*]* DM*:* "It's up to them if they want to answer. Don't bother me none."

*[*9:15 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Thank you" Ryleigh stands from the bar and says to the others, "do you want to stay here and let me ask around? or do we want to split up and ask a few different people..."

*[*9:16 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Quicker if we all ask, but I ain't th' most charismatic." she says with a sad smile

*[*9:17 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav looks at Urrak and then back at Ryleigh. "You sure you trust us with that responsibility?"

*[*9:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* “We don’t have to be quick, we just have to be efficient.” Ryleigh says to the others. “I’ll handle it, stay here and enjoy the food, but listen to the conversation around you...in case you overhear anything.”

*[*9:19 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around the room ((is there anyone in here that looks like the law lol or maybe someone more shady))

*[*9:19 PM*]* DM*:* Brimeia disappears.

*[*9:19 PM*]* DM*:* They all look like working class folks. Nobody really stands out.

*[*9:20 PM*]* Urrak*:* She startles a bit at Brimeia's departure. It'd been awhile since someone poofed in front of her. After a moment, Urrak nods to Ryleigh and takes a seat at the bar.

*[*9:22 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks to the nearest table and asks, “I hate to interrupt your meal but I’m new in town and I’m looking for some information.”

*[*9:24 PM*]* DM*:* Since I'm assuming you're going to someone who looks at least half-inviting, the three men look up and one grins. "I don't mind being interrupted by you." The one sitting next to him smacks him in the shoulder.

*[*9:27 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles at the men and winks at the one who made the comment. She takes a seat and says, "I'm looking for someone, but I think they landed themself in a bit of trouble. She's a short half elf with dark hair."

*[*9:28 PM*]* DM*:* They all kind of look at each other and shake their heads. "Nope, sorry. Can't say we've seen her."

*[*9:31 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav leans in to talk to Urrak quietly. "Did mal tell you what she does back here at home? think she got mixed up with the wrong people?"

*[*9:33 PM*]* Urrak*:* "She worked with a thieves guild here...coulda easily gotten snatched by th' law." Urrak replies in a low tone(edited)

*[*9:30 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh hums, "ah, well that's alright. Have any of you heard anything about anyone being arrested lately? Gossip. I can't help myself." She grins.(edited)

*[*9:34 PM*]* DM*:* "Oh, yeah! *That* one I know. I heard about it from Aldren. He said somebody just appeared in the middle of Lynsey's place. Got arrested for bein' inside without paying. Think it was a... invisibility wore off or something."

*[*9:36 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Lynsey's place?" Ryleigh inquires.

*[*9:37 PM*]* DM*:* He blushes deep red and stammers while the other two snicker. "It's uh... The Silk Curtain."

*[*9:39 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh raises an eyebrow, "The Silk Curtain? What kind of establishment is it?"

*[*9:39 PM*]* DM*:* One of them laughs at the red-faced man. "Yeah, Emerson, what is it?"

*[*9:41 PM*]* DM*:* The man, apparently named Emerson, says, "Uh... it's a place to uh... spend time with lovely ladies. Like yourself-- I mean, no, not like *you*. I'm not saying you... um. I'm going to go back to work now."

The other two burst into laughter.

*[*9:41 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh continues to look puzzled by their antics.

*[*9:41 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak muffles a chuckle in a cough from the bar

*[*9:42 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav chokes on some corn bread

*[*9:44 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Well, gentlemen. You've been a great help. Thank you." Ryleigh replaces the confused look on her face with a toothy smile and excuses herself from their table. She walks over Urrak to Ravaphine, "how much of that did you guys catch?"

*[*9:45 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Most of it. Includin' th' bit about th' Curtain." Urrak can't help but laugh softly at Ryleigh's obliviousness

*[*9:45 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav shoves more cornbread in her mouth so she won't have to answer

*[*9:47 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks baffled again, "Yes, I'm not sure what they thought was so funny. The one man, Emerson, he said it was a place to spend time with lovely ladies." She glances back at their table perplexed.

*[*9:47 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Must be a sorority of some sorts. Gal pals and the like"

*[*9:47 PM*]* DM*:* Safika smiles. "Oh you sweet, innocent child."

*[*9:48 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak can't stop herself from laughing now "Ry, it's a bordello. A brothel. A whorehouse. Ladies of the night are the main attraction."(edited)

*[*9:50 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh is half way through saying, "We're the same age!" to Safika when she hears Urrak's words and her ears turn pink. "What?!" Ryleigh's eyes go wide. "Oh my, well that explains, wow." She nervously rubs the back of her neck.

*[*9:53 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "I vote no brothel, unless you feel we can get more information there"

*[*9:53 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak takes a moment to get serious. "I think we should head there. Ask around. T' make sure th' offender was really Mal."

*[*9:54 PM*]* DM*:* Safika laughs. "I'm sure that's why you want to go there."

*[*9:54 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak gives Safika a look, but says nothing further

*[*9:55 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Actually...." Ryleigh thinks for a moment, trying to ignore the heat of her face. "We can prove her innocence with Poni. I think we should go to the jail and explain to the guards what's happened."

*[*9:55 PM*]* Urrak*:* "She may have some past discretions here that could uh...dampen that hope."

*[*9:56 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "What do you mean?"

*[*9:57 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav whispers, "Malica though? Or, somebody else"

*[*9:58 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Mal worked for a thieves guild out here. Not th' same as Ancy, but th' same kinda trade. That's how they met." She crosses her arms "I'm not sure she's *actually* done anythin' big enough fer folks t' want t' bring her in, but it's a possibility ye all need t' be aware of."(edited)

*[*10:00 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods, "I think we should try anyway" and she shuffles a bit "before going to the...uh, brothel place."

*[*10:01 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Lead th' way, Ry." she smiles and shakes her head a bit

*[*10:04 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks out of the Donkey and towards the jail, based on the directions they got earlier.

*[*10:04 PM*]* DM*:* You walk down the road for some distance without finding the jail.

*[*10:09 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks around and stops another townsperson.

*[*10:11 PM*]* DM*:* Eventually you find out the guy you asked got his left and right mixed up and gave you the wrong directions. It's back the other way. And you can find it after another twenty minutes or so.

*[*10:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Finally." Ryleigh says as they find the jail. She walks in.

*[*10:12 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "What's our plan? Maybe we can pay to release her?"(edited)

*[*10:13 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Ry's gonna use that symbol on her armor as leverage t' explain Mal outta jail."

*[*10:13 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav nods

*[*10:13 PM*]* DM*:* There's a man inside in city guard uniform behind a desk. "Can I help you?"

*[*10:14 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Our plan is to let *me* do the talking. ok?" Ryleigh says to the others before turning her attention to the guard, "Yes, you can. I'd like to inquire about a prisoner."

*[*10:14 PM*]* DM*:* "Who's asking?"

*[*10:16 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "My name is Ryleigh and I'm a paladin of Asten."(edited)

*[*10:17 PM*]* DM*:* His eyes skirt over the symbols on your armor. "Never heard of 'em."

*[*10:18 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh sets her jaw, "I don't see how that matters. I'm here to prove the innocence of one of your prisoners or have you forgotten that citizens have rights."(edited)

*[*10:19 PM*]* DM*:* Roll persuasion cause I don't make you do that enough.

*[*10:20 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* ((17))

*[*10:21 PM*]* DM*:* He scoffs and sits back. "Well then... prove away. But you should know we caught her in plain view. Trespassing is illegal, you know. Breaking and entering. Being places you shouldn't be."

*[*10:24 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Of course it is, but it isn't her fault. We traveled her by accidental teleportation magic. We're from Vyon and there's a town there that has suffered a magical catastrophe. It's caused the townspeople to teleport out and people from all over the world were teleported in. The problem is that its random and it isn't controllable - unless you have this." Ryleigh puts her hand out to Ravaphine for Poni.

*[*10:25 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav hands Ryleigh Poni and crosses her arms to look professional and tuff

*[*10:25 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak watches the exchange between Ryleigh and the guard, her heart beats a little faster. She's suddenly quite nervous(edited)

*[*10:27 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Watch." Ryleigh presses the button.

*[*10:27 PM*]* DM*:* Ryleigh disappears... and leaves the rest of you with no way home.

*[*10:28 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav panics for a second

*[*10:29 PM*]* Urrak*:* "I swear t' Gruumsh if that paladin doesn't come back..." Urrak rests a hand on Ravaphine's shoulder, trying to calm her despite being not calm at all herself.

*[*10:30 PM*]* DM*:* The guard sits up, suddenly alert. "Where'd she go?"(edited)

*[*10:30 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "She'll be back. She'll be back" She nods to reassure the others, but mostly herself

*[*10:31 PM*]* DM*:* Safika excuses herself and steps outside for a minute.

*[*10:32 PM*]* Urrak*:* "She teleported back t' where th' arch is. The machine that helps the process work correctly. She can find us again with a someone's personal item or if there's a chunk of th' same broken machine somewhere around." she pauses "I know it....sounds insane. But it's true." she takes Lady Moonstream's token out of her bag "We're on a mission from the Baroness of Vyon." she holds it up so the guard can see(edited)

*[*10:33 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav takes hers out too

*[*10:33 PM*]* DM*:* He looks at it, but there's no recognition on his face.

*[*10:35 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Right, we're in bumfuck Alderrath..." she mumbles to herself. "Anyway she'll be right back. She's jus' tryin' t' prove her point." she says the last part a bit more to Rav than to the man

*[*10:39 PM*]* DM*:* "How do I know it doesn't just turn her invisible?"

*[*10:41 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Trust me, friend. Y'would've heard her ass leave. invisibility or not. Armor ain't quiet."(edited)

*[*10:41 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh comes jogging up the road, slightly out of breath, she opens the door and walks inside.

*[*10:42 PM*]* DM*:* Safika follows her inside.

*[*10:43 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Will that suffice?" Ryleigh asks the guard.

*[*10:44 PM*]* DM*:* Roll another persuasion.

*[*10:44 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* ((14))

*[*10:45 PM*]* DM*:* He tilts his head. "You want me to just release her because you can disappear? She was still in a place she wasn't supposed to be. How'd she get there?"

*[*10:47 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I just told you how she got there. She was randomly teleported. I teleported from here right? You saw it with your own eyes, but I had to run back through town to get here. That's because this idiot" Ryleigh waves Poni around "just teleports us where ever."(edited)

*[*10:49 PM*]* DM*:* Poni: "I'm smarter than everyone in this room combined, you three-apple shy of a bushel imbecile."

*[*10:50 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav takes poni back

*[*10:52 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Th' stick is a uh...a bit of an asshole."

*[*10:53 PM*]* DM*:* The guard shakes his head. He sighs, clearly thinking that you people are more trouble than she's worth. "I can't just let her go. She's already been claimed. Someone's coming to pick her up tonight."

*[*10:54 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Wait, what?"

*[*10:54 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak walks towards him quickly "Who? Who's comin' t' get her?"

*[*10:54 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps into Urrak's path, blocking her from advancing.

*[*10:56 PM*]* DM*:* He checks his paperwork. "Vash Kidham from Lughagen."

*[*10:57 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak stops right before running into Ryleigh and then takes a step back. "Lughagen she was...she had friends in Lughagen."

*[*10:58 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Vash Kidham. How much is he paying for her release?" Ryleigh asks the guard.

*[*10:59 PM*]* DM*:* "Paying? He's transferring her to another prison."

*[*11:01 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods, "I see. Well, thank you for the information." She addresses the group, "Come on, you guys. We tried."

*[*11:02 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak takes a breath "I...could we see her?"

*[*11:04 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh puts a hand on Urrak's chest to stop her and whispers, "trust me" before she tells the guard, "I'm sorry for taking up so much of your time." She leaves the jail.

*[*11:04 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak hesitates a moment but follows

*[*11:05 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav also follows

*[*11:06 PM*]* DM*:* Safika does as well.

*[*11:06 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Once there outside Ryleigh says, "Safika found a small opening in the wall of malica's cell - at least *one* of you did something while I distracted the guard with teleportation." She's clearly teasing them.

*[*11:07 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Usually y'fill people in on plan if ye want it t' go off without a hitch..."

*[*11:07 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "He probably would have gotten suspicious if we all left"

*[*11:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "I was hoping the plan would be to secure her release by proving she couldn't help that she teleported, but...that's why Safika and I make a good team...I'm the distraction and she's the brains." Ryleigh winks at Safika. "Alright, let's go bail her out."

*[*11:12 PM*]* DM*:* Safika: "You just have to touch, right?"

*[*11:12 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "That's right."

*[*11:14 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Yes, if we can get her hand through, we can bring her back. The only downfall is that Bellbury will be her new home"

*[*11:15 PM*]* DM*:* Safika leads you around the back of the prison. There's a space in the back, between a couple bushes, where you can see a gap, almost a horizontal slit like a high window, in the wall. "I had to climb up there and use my mirror to make sure it was hers."

*[*11:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Th-thank ye, Safika. I--we really appreciate th' effort."(edited)

*[*11:17 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Unlike me, she's *actually* good at sneaking around." Ryleigh's smile is a mixture of pride and contentment.

*[*11:18 PM*]* DM*:* "You're welcome. Now you just need to figure out how to get her to reach to the window."(edited)

*[*11:18 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Y'do sound like a pan fallin' down th' stairs when y'walk." she laughs a bit and turns again to Safika "We could...I have this."(edited)

*[*11:19 PM*]* Urrak*:* She pulls out some rope "A...rope ladder?"(edited)

*[*11:20 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh gives Urrak a *look* at the rope ladder comment.

*[*11:21 PM*]* Urrak*:* "O-Oh or she could just...shift taller." she flushes a bit at her gaff(edited)

*[*11:21 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* ((how high up is the gap?))

*[*11:22 PM*]* DM*:* It's like... 7 feet up?

*[*11:22 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Can you climb up there and hang on while we feed her the rope to pull her up? If we time it right, all we need is to touch"

*[*11:24 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* "Urrak, we need to hurry. If someone spots us we'll be in there with her. Just have her change and reach through the crack to you."

*[*11:28 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak nods. "Alright, let's get her out." She tries to get her attention speaking into the gap "Mal...Mal y'there?"

*[*11:28 PM*]* DM*:* "Urrak?! Is that you?" Her voice sounds small and broken like she's been crying a lot.

*[*11:30 PM*]* Urrak*:* "It's me Mal, I'm here, we're all here. We're gonna get ye out, don't worry." her heart is beating a mile a minute "We have Poni, so we can poof ye out. Y'just need t' make yerself a little taller so I can grab yer hand." she sticks her hand in the gap in the wall(edited)

*[*11:32 PM*]* DM*:* Urrak feels fingers thread between her own.

*[*11:32 PM*]* Urrak*:* She turns to the group "I've got her, hurry!" she extends her other arm(edited)

*[*11:32 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav grabs onto Urrak. "Ry, Safika, latch on!"

*[*11:32 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh grabs onto Safika's hand and Ravaphine's shoulder.(edited)

*[*11:33 PM*]* DM*:* Safika takes Ry's hand.

*[*11:33 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* Rav takes out Poni with her free hand and pushes the button

*[*11:33 PM*]* DM*:* You all appear back in Poni's basement, Cae Moonstream holding Urrak's hand, wearing nothing but a too-tight shirt and pair of highwater pants.(edited)

*[*11:34 PM*]* DM*:* She quickly lets go as she realizes that there's three wizards and several dead bodies in the room with you all though.

*[*11:35 PM*]* DM*:* She clears her throat. "Thank you, everyone. Please, come see me at the mansion later for a reward." She nods at the wizards and walks up the stairs.

*[*11:36 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh tugs Safika's hand to have her follow them out of the basement.

*[*11:37 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Right uh...L-Lady Cae." she looks to the wizards and nods "...Gentlemen..." she jogs after Cae but stops midstep at Quarius' voice(edited)

*[*11:37 PM*]* DM*:* Qarius clears his throat. "A moment, please."

*[*11:37 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh turns, "Yes?"

*[*11:39 PM*]* DM*:* "I understand you helped to recover... their bodies. I wanted to thank you for that. Elthin was not entirely within protocol to seek outside aid, but I understand he was rather panicked. Unfortunately, I don't have the manpower to continue the search at the moment. I've spoken to the Baroness about turning the issue over to you until all the pieces have been found."

*[*11:43 PM*]* Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shifts slightly, "I'm sorry for your loss. We were fortunate to get there in time to recover the bodies. We'll continue the search in your absence, just as we were before you showed up." She leaves.

*[*11:44 PM*]* Urrak*:* "A-aye what she said." Urrak follows

*[*11:46 PM*]* Ravaphine*:* "Your spellguards were fantastic wizards, and we send our regards to their families and the college. The arch looks like it's almost back up and running again, we will get the job done soon, Sir. Is there....any chance of bringing them back?"(edited)

*[*11:48 PM*]* DM*:* "Raise spells are never guaranteed, but we will attempt them. It is something each Spellguard is granted when they join."

*[*12:02 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "I...." Ryleigh shuffles uncomfortablly. "There's something I need to look at, and...I might owe you an explination about my behavior back where the...the flesh golems were."

*[*12:06 PM*]* DM*:* Safika shakes her head. "You don't *owe* me anything, Ryleigh... but if you want to talk, I'll listen."

*[*12:12 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh swallows, "I almost put us, put you, in more danger back there..." she looks away, a little ashamed, "let's just go back to the house..."

## Seiryleigh

*[*6:39 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir makes her way up from the cask basement and gives a quick hello to Gunnloda before taking off to find Ryleigh. Making it easy on herself she shifts into the husky puppy she used before and smells her way to her friend outside of Poni's. She shifts back when she gets close, "Hey, uh, can I talk to you, Ryleigh? Um, somewhere a little more private? I mean, Safika can come if she wants but... I just don't want the others to overhear."

*[*6:44 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh squeezes Safika's hand, which she totally hasn't let go of since they arrived back in Poni's basement, "I'll catch up" she says and finally lets go. She turns to Seir, "Do you have someplace in mind?"(edited)

*[*6:45 PM*]* DM*:* Safika gives her a smile. "I'll be in the one from last night, just in case." Then she heads off.

*[*6:46 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I mean, the grove is probably fine, or like... the temple." She says with a tilt of her head, "The where isn't really important."

*[*6:48 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Alright, let's go where ever you'll be most comfortable." Ryleigh smiles, but it doesn't quite reach her eyes.

*[*6:52 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir bites her lip and leads Ryleigh to the grove, pretty far in, and not her usual place, just in case. "I wanted to apologize about this morning. I wouldn't have... I didn't think you were going to be there before I was. And I was just, it was just a joke, for the others, really. But then you *were* there and I couldn't really just walk in and then walk out, because that would have been even weirder. But you were so concerned for me and I just... I'm sorry." She doesn't quite realize she hasn't really specified what she means.

*[*6:54 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh looks a little puzzled but her face is soft, "what exactly are you trying to apologize for?"

*[*6:58 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Oh, right, sorry..." She takes a deep breath with closed eyes. She looks worried when she opens them, "That was me this morning. The woman. It was actually what Takara looks like, which I was a little surprised you didn't... well anyway. I'm sorry for that.. I was just excited because I'd finally figured out how to do it..."

*[*7:07 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "*Oh*" Ryleigh's eyes widen in surprise, "I....Seirixori, there's no reason for you to apologize to me." She sighs a little, "I mean, yes, I was worried." Ryleigh looks like she doesn't really know what to say.

*[*7:15 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I... I felt really bad about it. I didn't...you looked... hurt? I mean, my reaction to your worry was... was because I felt bad not because of anything else." She shifts nervously, "Also, um, I was really worried yesterday so I kind of followed you and Urrak. I wanted to make sure you would be okay." she shrugs. "I wanted to let you know someone was on your side at least, or there for you? Or something without being... um... without being like... I don't know." She hangs her head and groans. "I don't know."

*[*7:19 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh smiles and steps closer to Seir, she places a gentle finger under Seir's chin and lifts her head so their eyes can meet, "you were the cat." Ryleigh lets her hand drop back to her side and her voice is very soft, "thank you."

*[*7:23 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Uh... yes, you're welcome? ... you're not mad?" she clears her throat, "Are you okay, though? I know there were some things you've said to me that I've kind of... ignored, so to speak, just because I wasn't sure you really wanted to get into it. Kind of like you didn't mean to say them."

*[*7:34 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "First, I'm not mad about the transforming thing, and I won't lie, it hurt when you flinched away from me, but that was because....well, it doesn't matter." Ryleigh sighs heavily, "Secondly, I do feel that you intruded on a conversation that wasn't for you, but...I took comfort in the cat, which means I'm appreciative that you were there...even though I didn't know it was you." At the last bit, Ryleigh shuffles uncomfortably but is determined to try, "...what is you want clarification on?"

*[*7:39 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "It *does* matter." Seir states and then sighs. "I don't *want* clarification on anything. Not unless you *want* to talk about it. I just... worry, I guess." She laughs a little and mutters to herself, "I feel like I'm talking to Gunnloda again."

*[*7:54 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh opens her mouth to respond but then closes it. She's silent for a while, like she's unsure what she wants to say, "I...well, I don't know what you're referring to, so you have my permission to ask but I can't promise I'll answer...depending on what it is you ask."

*[*7:59 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir rolls her eyes, but she smiles softly, "About... well there was that one time when I did something that reminded you about *her* and I was going to tease you about it but I don't even know what or who you were referring to. But also..." she pauses, unsure if she should bring it up. "Also about your brother. I... well I don't know, if, if Safika's not around or something and you wanted to talk about it or whatever." she gestures lamely to herself, "I guess I'll..well I'm here if you need to talk to someone." She makes a face, like what she said was stupid.

*[*8:15 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Don't do that, please." Ryleigh chuckles at the face Seir made. "I really am thankful that you care....honestly. And about *her* ...." She inhales and reveals, "I meant my sister, well adoptive sister, her name was Clemency. She was compassionate and caring too. She was older than me and was completely in love with my brother" Ryleigh's smile grows as she talks about them, "they were great together, and we were all happy." Her smile slowly fades until her face is back to its neutral position.

*[*8:35 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir nods and pokes Ryleigh's cheek, "Well, at least I don't remind you of someone you don't like." She grins, "I hope you find something or someone that makes you smile again. I'm not the only one it looks good on."

*[*8:43 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh's hand darts out and grabs the hand poking her face, she doesn't let it go as she says, "I'm discovering I have more reason to smile now than I have in the past 5 years, and Seirixori, you're a part of that reason." She's smiling.

*[*8:51 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* She flushes just a tiny bit."Well, good. That means I'm slowly making you believe that at least one of us wants you around... and your not scary self." She teases.

*[*8:55 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh rolls her eyes and tries to school her features. She's failing and her smiles is still there, because she *does* like having Seir around and *maybe* she's starting to like being apart of this group.

## Ryfika

*[*12:20 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh shuffles into the house, she hesitates for a few moments before deciding to take her armor off. She pulls the bag of holding open and reaches inside for the books. Once she's pulled them all out, she sits there - for a long time - not sure if she wants to open them.

*[*12:22 PM*]* DM*:* Safika leans silently against a doorjamb, quiet enough that you probably didn't realize she'd been there til she speaks. "Little light reading before bed?"

*[*12:24 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh startles out of her thoughts and whips her head in the direction of Safika's voice. She tries to chuckle but it comes out as more of defeated sigh, "Yeah, because you know I'm such a scholar."(edited)

*[*12:29 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "These books may hold answers...answers to questions I've had for two years. But now that I'm here, I'm scared of what information they may hold." Ryleigh's eyes are on the books, but then she looks up at Safika, "sounds silly, me being afraid of books."(edited)

*[*12:30 PM*]* DM*:* Safika smiles and sits next to Ryleigh. "You know it's not the books you're afraid of."

*[*12:38 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh rubs her face with her hands. "I recognized the symbol etched on that flesh golem's body, because it was the same symbol from that day..." She's quiet for a long time before continuing, "I'm afraid that these books won't give me the answers I want, that they'll confirm *I* killed all those people...that I wasn't under someone else's control...that I'm every bit the monster everyone sees."(edited)

*[*12:51 PM*]* DM*:* Safika sighs. "You're not a monster. And even though I know how much a person can change in a lifetime, I doubt you ever *were*. No matter what those books say, remember they were written by *people* who have their own biases. They're just as likely to lie as the person who wrote them."

*[*1:00 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh swallows around the lump that's forming in her throat, "It felt like I was in a haze, but I...I was angry at the people because they avoided me, they made me feel like an outsider, and I was there to help them, to protect them." She bites her lip unconsciously, hard enough that she draws blood. "I killed them, I was covered in ash and blood, but....was the haze someone else's doing or just my own fury..." Ryleigh slaps her hand down on the largest book.

*[*1:04 PM*]* DM*:* "Have you ever felt like that before or since? That... haze?"

*[*1:07 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh shakes her head, her voice is soft and small. "Not since. I also make it a point now to not have such angry thoughts - it's why I've tried to distance myself from the group, they make me so mad sometimes that I....I worry."(edited)

*[*1:11 PM*]* DM*:* Safika takes Ryleigh's hand. "There's a line between managing your emotions or protecting yourself and bottling them up to the point that you explode or break. Try not to cross it?"

*[*1:16 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh takes a relieved breath as Safika's hand slips into hers. "I'm still learning where that line is." She takes a moment to rub her thumb across the back of Safika's hand before mumbling, "I don't know if I'm ready to face all this yet, but I need to look through these before the others do..." Ryleigh gestures to the books with her free hand.(edited)

*[*1:20 PM*]* DM*:* "Ok..." She slides the closest one towards herself. "What are we looking for?"

*[*1:21 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "I think we should start with anything that tells me who made the flesh golems or where that person might be now."(edited)

*[*1:30 PM*]* DM*:* You both start looking through the books. Different authors, different contents, all about the creation, history, or use of golems, necromancy and conjuration. After thumbing through a few of them, Safika gets your attention. "Hey Ry, look at this one. It's newer. Unfinished."

*[*1:33 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh runs her hand over the books cover, she hums in thought before pulling it towards her and opening it.(edited)

*[*1:34 PM*]* DM*:* This is the diary of the spellcaster who was killed by the Spellguard, self-named "The Creator". She was trying to recreate the work of someone known only as The Maker, recognizable by the mark he used on every one of his creations, whether crafted of steel, stone, or flesh, and every person sworn to his service. That's the mark Ryleigh recognized on the inert golem.

*[*1:37 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "This is it, this mark. It's what all the flesh golems had on them that day." Ryleigh traces the mark in the book with her fingertips as she whispers, "The Maker."

*[*1:41 PM*]* DM*:* "It seems like anyone who would build one of these, let alone several, would have to be a powerful spellcaster. It's not unreasonable to think they'd be able to cast enchantments too."

*[*1:44 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh's brow furrows. "I....yeah, you're probably right..." but she doesn't seemed convinced.

*[*1:47 PM*]* DM*:* She leans over and shuts the book. "Hey... listen to me. It doesn't matter. What's past is past. What happened, happened. What matters is what you do now and tomorrow and every day after that."

*[*1:57 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Restitution." Ryleigh breathes out as she shifts her focus from the closed book in her lap to the woman sitting next to her - struck by the kindness in Safika's brown eyes. She cups Safika's jaw and lightly brushes her thumb over sculpted cheekbones before softly saying, "Thank you. For this."

*[*2:03 PM*]* DM*:* Safika just chuckles a little. "Always so serious. You're welcome, but I wasn't talking about 'restitution'. Just... leaving your past behind you and focusing on the future. If you let the past hang around your neck like a weight to be carried, you're going to end up with back problems," she adds with a smirk.

*[*2:11 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh let's her hand slowly fall away from Safika's face as she chuckles, "I think the 80lbs of armor I wear regularly will give me back problems first." She looks at the scattered books around them and sighs. "It's a start" she says seriously.

*[*2:14 PM*]* DM*:* "And the end is...?"

*[*2:15 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Do you really want to know the answer to that question?" Ryleigh's violet eyes bounce from the books to Safika's.(edited)

*[*2:16 PM*]* DM*:* Safika just gives her a look. "Yes. Then I know if I have to talk more sense into you."

*[*2:20 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Vengeance." Ryleigh says, not looking away from Safika's eyes. "I'm going to destroy The Maker, everything he's built, and anyone who follows him. I'm going to make him pay for every life he's destroyed, for every family he's ripped apart."(edited)

*[*2:27 PM*]* DM*:* She looks into Ryleigh's eyes for a moment or three, then leans forward and kisses her forehead as she stands. "Don't let it consume and destroy you too, ok?"

*[*2:32 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh's eyes close as Safika's lips press to her forehead. Her voice is just above a whisper, "that's my biggest fear..."

*[*2:50 PM*]* DM*:* "Some fears are worth paying attention to. Make friends, talk to them, and listen to us when we say it's too much. You don't have to walk alone, no matter what your "monster" tells you."

*[*2:55 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh nods in understanding as grabs the thick fancy book. She hesitates before shes asks, "what you looking for here?"

*[*2:58 PM*]* DM*:* "Evidence, mostly. This house is owned by Ansirus Pfeifer, one of the orchard's supervisors named in the complaints I'm investigating."

*[*2:59 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh hums in acknowledgement, "Have you found anything yet?" She's looking at the cover of the fancy book, turning it over in her hands.

*[*3:03 PM*]* DM*:* It's fancy, but it's kind of a feeling you get about it, not how it looks. It looks like it's been made by sewing together bits of flesh that have been written on.

"Not enough, no. If he was stupid enough to write down his dealings, he was smart enough to hide the papers well... and I haven't been able to get back into the mansion to check Eloise's ledgers again."

*[*3:06 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "She surprised me...Eloise did. I always thought everyone in power were like the leaders we have in Ascus, but she seems....concerned for her people." Ryleigh decides to open the book.(edited)

*[*3:08 PM*]* DM*:* And there's your 18 points of psychic damage that feels like something stabbing you in the brain as you try to read it.

*[*3:08 PM*]* DM*:* Safika just chuckles as she looks through a small bookshelf. "Not an uncommon assumption among Whispers, honestly."

*[*3:09 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh drops the book and gasps in pain as she grabs her head. "What in the 9 hells!"(edited)

*[*3:14 PM*]* DM*:* "Ry?" She comes back over towards Ryleigh, taking a guess and shutting the book as she comes close enough. She puts one hand on Ryleigh's shoulder as she bends down to get a look at her face. "Are you ok?"

*[*3:17 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "It feels like something stabbed my brain." Ryleigh's eyes are watering from the pain. "I'm....I'm ok...when I opened the book, it...I don't know what it did - blasted me?"

*[*3:19 PM*]* DM*:* "Ok, maybe I was wrong about not being afraid of books."

*[*3:23 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh rubs the temples of her head, "maybe...maybe that's enough of this for one night." She waits a few minutes for the pain to subside. "I caught what you said before the book melted my brain" Ryleigh tries to laugh but winces instead, "is it not an assumption you have too?"

*[*3:29 PM*]* DM*:* Safika pulls back as the question's asked and leans against the table instead, folding her arms. "I see things differently from most. There are those who think the Moonstreams have too much power... and maybe they're right. But I'd rather live under them than someone like Tilman."

*[*3:36 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "I still have my doubts about the other Moonstreams and I disagree with the amount of power they hold, but as someone who grew up under Tilman's tyranny - I'd have to agree. At least you can walk around without fear of being killed for being..." Ryleigh gestures to all of Safika. She stands and walks into Safika's space but doesn't move to touch her, "I've said something to offend you..."

*[*3:43 PM*]* DM*:* "No... not you," she says, unfolding her arms and putting her hands on the table behind her.

*[*3:48 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh slowly reaches out a hand and brushes some hair from Safika's face, "I know you want the past to stay in the past, but I want to know you...and how can I when you lock everything away?"

*[*3:51 PM*]* DM*:* She looks down, avoiding Ryleigh's eyes. "Does it matter? The past is past."

*[*3:58 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh leans over to catch Safika's eyes, "there's nothing you could tell me that would change how much I care for you." She's unsure of how much touching is ok right now, so she just continues to stand in Safika's space, unwilling to back up. "Rukiya."(edited)

*[*4:03 PM*]* DM*:* "It's not..." she sighs and looks back up. "I'm not *hiding* like I'm afraid of what you'll think. It's more complicated than that."

*[*4:12 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* "Whatever it is, it burdens you. That's the only reason I'm asking, but I don't have to know or understand your reasonings to care for you." Ryleigh pauses, she cups Safika's face as she says, "I'm here, for *you*, whenever you need me."(edited)

*[*4:19 PM*]* DM*:* She puts her hand over Ryleigh's. "Thank you, really. And you know I'm here for you too, right? I-- I wish I could tell you because it *is* a burden. Have you ever had to pretend you were someone you're not for long periods of time? When you have nobody who knows the truth... it's draining."

*[*4:30 PM*]* Ryleigh - Nicole*:* Ryleigh steps closer and softly says, "I know *exactly* what that feels like. I'll leave it alone, for now. " She presses their foreheads together and continues, "you're not alone anymore, I'll always be here, if you let me."

## Urica

*[*12:08 PM*]* DM*:* By the time you find a space in Qarius's little speech to slip out of the basement, you don't see "Cae" anywhere.

*[*12:10 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak gets topside of the basement and looks around "Mal?"

*[*12:12 PM*]* DM*:* There's no answer.

*[*12:15 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Right." She starts out towards the Cask, taking the lute out of her pack as she walks. Once we enters the tavern she heads straight for the stairs and walks up. She goes to Malica's door and knocks softly

*[*12:17 PM*]* DM*:* This time the door opens. Malica, now back in the form Urrak's accustomed to, steps back to let her in.

*[*12:21 PM*]* Urrak*:* "High hells, Mal, I--I'm so glad you're ok." she moves to hug her but hesitates. She looks to the instrument in her hand "Oh, uh, we used this t' find ye." she sets it gently on the ground beside her. "Are you...can I? I-is everything--?" her mind is so overloaded at the moment it makes being coherent difficult(edited)

*[*12:23 PM*]* DM*:* She pushes the door so it shuts and looks at Urrak with tears in her eyes again. "You... came for me. I- I thought I was dead... or worse. I-- Thank you."

*[*12:27 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Of course I did Mal, why wouldn't I?" she reaches out a cautious hand to cup her cheek "I...care about ye."

*[*12:29 PM*]* DM*:* She throws her arms around Urrak and starts crying into her chest. "I was so scared... and the way we left everything... and just everything."(edited)

*[*12:36 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak holds her tightly, body shaking with small sobs that she tries to keep down. "I was too, Mal." She kisses the top of Malica's head "I knew y'wanted space an'...for me t' think about my own feelin's before I spoke but...I wanted t' tell ye that yer *not* an obligation, Mal. Y'never were. I...I've always..." she takes a deep, sharp breath and pulls back a bit so she can look into her eyes "I've always cared about ye, Mal. Truly, deeply. It was never about some promise o' protection. I...I just..."(edited)

*[*12:42 PM*]* DM*:* "I didn't want to hold you to a promise you made before you found out about... everything else. Not once I realized..." She looks down for a moment, then back up. "I told you I'm not a good person... but I don't want to just use you to keep myself safe. I... care about you, too."

*[*12:50 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak brushes a stray lock of hair from Malica's face and rests her hands on her shoulders. "Mal, I...w-when we started this, y'offered t'give me 'whatever you want for as long as you’ll have me’. Well, Mal, I think I'm finally able t' tell ye what I truly want." she slides her hands down her arms and takes both of Malica's hands in hers. “I want t’ keep waking up next to ye, holding ye close, kissin’ yer lips. I want t’ stop second guessin’ every touch, t’ stop feelin’ so guilty for wantin’ t’ touch ye, t’ stop wondering what... *Ancy*  would think. I want *you*, Mal, I want t’ be with ye...and t’ be able t’ want that openly." She pauses, collecting herself. “I can't give ye my heart, at least not all o’ it...I gave that away near a decade ago... But I can give you nearly everythin’ else. For as long as you’ll have it. Please Mal... Can we just...start fresh?”(edited)

*[*12:57 PM*]* DM*:* She chuckles a little through fresh tears. "Not fresh, but with everything we've shared. For as long as you want *me*."

*[*1:06 PM*]* Urrak*:* She lets a small smile crack through her rough features and leans down to kiss her. When she pulls away, she nestles her face in the crook of Malica's neck *"I want ye, Mal. Right now, in this moment, I want ye."* a few tears escape her eyes as well "I'm so sorry about leavin' things the way they were, about not comin' for ye right away, fer askin' y' to...well...I'm just" she takes a shaky breath "I'm happy you're safe. And here...With me." she kisses her again, gently. *"Avai huxo nalo ad no d'huv avai varr oxol k'vav. Ko'ok ad drako, raxo."*(edited)

Later...

*[*5:46 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak turns herself around in the sheets of the inn bed. She contemplates a moment about whether or not what had occured in them not too long ago was entirely appropriate, given the last few hectic hours, but that worry starts to fade as she looks to her companion. She lets a soft breath out through her nose, a lopsided grin following it. She runs the back of her fingers down Malica's side and rests the hand on the curve of her hip. "I'm...glad we came when we did" she's unsure if this is the best way to start this conversation, but there's not really a social norm to guide her in this moment "They said they were gonna transfer ye. T'some place in Lughagen...I don't know if we could've..." she stops herself, not wanting to pile any further stress on top of an already difficult situtation.

*[*5:50 PM*]* DM*:* She moves closer, almost burrowing into Urrak's side. "By nightfall, it would've been too late."

*[*5:53 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Too late? I-I mean we probably would've just used yer lute again...What's another prison?" she says jokingly. As the changeling moves in closer, Urrak curls herself around the other woman, a loose arm wrapping itself across Malica's side.(edited)

*[*5:59 PM*]* DM*:* "It wouldn't be a prison... not really. It was something we found in our research. Vampires have to eat... and what better way to keep it secret than to feed on people who wouldn't be missed?"

*[*6:03 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak grips her a bit tighter "Good gods, Mal...yer serious? What the hells is going on in Alderrath...?" she pauses a moment. "They do that fer all prisoners? Seems a bit steep fer tresspassin'...even in a silk curtain."

*[*6:06 PM*]* DM*:* "Not all... but 'Malica' had no ties to Westband. They have magical ledgers, we think. Some way for the Gray to watch for the kind of victims they prefer."

*[*6:09 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Outta-towners, drifters an th' like...I see. This Gray...they've a real hold on that town, eh? Or probably th' whole damn continent with what y've told me." she runs her hand through Malica's hair "If y've no ties t' Westband as 'Malica', is that Cyan's 'home' then?"(edited)

*[*6:12 PM*]* DM*:* "I don't think they're established outside of Alderrath. Cyan-- I was traveling from Lughagen south to Vatru, then maybe further. I just wanted to get as far from them as I could. That's where I was when this whole thing happened. Just trying to get away."

*[*6:17 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak presses a kiss to her temple "I-If it makes ye feel any better...even if ye poof again, you'll end up back 'ere, in Bellbury. The portal sorta moved yer 'home base', as it were." she lifts herself up on an elbow and curls her free hand around Malica's chin, lifting her face gently "And when that damn thing is fixed...y-y'can have th' tickets Eloise gave me. You'll be able t' get as far away as ye need. I-If ye wanted to a'course." her face flushes.

*[*6:22 PM*]* DM*:* "I-- I won't go back? That's... more than I could ever ask. I wouldn't even know where else to go."

*[*6:27 PM*]* Urrak*:* "Y'won't go back" she kisses her softly "Yer stuck here, with me." she winks playfully and smiles. "I am curious though...why did ye end up in that uh...*brothel*? Was th' last place y' were before, well" she makes a 'poofing' noise and spreads out her fingers, mimicking a small explosion.

*[*6:34 PM*]* DM*:* "It was, yes... as Cyan. I had a... friend there that offered me a place to stay, but... when I came back as Malica, it was trespassing or... worse."

*[*7:05 PM*]* Urrak*:* "A 'friend', eh?" she kisses down Malica's jaw and on to her neck, her hand drifting down to rest at her waist. "Don't worry, I won't press ye further." she places lazy kisses on her arm, her collarbone, one just behind her ear, and comes back up. "Though...I am wondering what might be 'worse'..."

*[*7:07 PM*]* DM*:* "...nobody else knows about... what I really am. Telling people has never ended well. Until you."

*[*7:12 PM*]* Urrak*:* Urrak hums, thinking. "Well...I suppose there's a lotta close-minded folk out there. I at least know a little bit about that." she runs the back of her hand down Malica's cheek. "But let's not worry about that now, *raxo*. You're here, yer safe, and yer not goin' back. Portal be damned."(edited)

*[*7:25 PM*]* DM*:* She leans in and kisses Urrak, lingering for a moment. "I could never thank you for everything you've done." She grins and leans in, tracing a finger from Urrak's chin, up her jaw, around her ear, and down her throat and beyond. "But I can try."

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