Session 105

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This session was played on March 15, 2019.

## Synopsis

Ryleigh opens up to Seir about her past, how it's impacting the present, and her doubts about Asten. Seir then has a long discussion about Asten and other godly matters with Takara. The group has a discussion, getting their issues with each other out in the open in hopes of reconciliation. Then, as they get back on the road, they come across some civilians being harassed by guards.

## Transcript- Seiryleigh 1

6:56 PM] Seirixori: Seir leans back into Ryleigh, "I know you're not okay... Will you tell me about the guard?" She pauses and then adds, "Or leaving the guy in the forest. Which ever is easier to start with."

[7:00 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Taking a deep, heavy breath Ryleigh says, "I assume not talking about either isn't an option?"

[7:01 PM] Seirixori: Seir chuckles, "It is not."

[7:04 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Then I should start with the Sunguard... it'll explain why I... more." Ryleigh is quiet for a minute or so. "I know him. He used to be the Captain of the guard in Falberk - my hometown."

[7:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir reaches out to take one of Ryleigh's hands.

[7:09 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "He's the one who gave me the scars on my back..." Ryleigh says in a hushed tone.

[7:13 PM] Seirixori: Seir doesn't say anything for a moment, but then with a small growl she says, "It's probably a good thing I didn't know that sooner."

[7:18 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh lets out a bit of laugh. "I broke a guard's nose after he murdered my dad. My punishment was supposed to be 5 lashings. They wanted to make an example out of me."

[7:28 PM] Seirixori: "...did it happen more than once?"

[7:31 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "No." Ryleigh answers, partially confused. "Why?"

[7:32 PM] Seirixori: "Because I know there's more than five, Ryleigh." She says softly.

[7:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Oh," she responds faintly, "that."

[7:37 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I guess you could say that my big mouth made it worse." Ryleigh half chuckles. "I may have mocked the guard while he hit me. It pissed the Captain off and he decided to personally take over. 5 lashings grew into as many as it took to shut me up."

[7:41 PM] Seirixori: "Now I wish I'd followed him," Seir mutters. "That fucking asshole, you were just a kid."

[7:44 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yeah, just a kid" she sighs. "I threatened him that day. 'One day you will look over your shoulder and I will be there, and on that day, I will send you to whatever god you wish.' It was stupid of me to think I ever could..."

[7:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "*Homashoc*... you have to promise me that if we ever see him again, you won't try anything."

[7:47 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns and starts grumbling to herself.

[7:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Seirixori, promise me. He's a Sunguard now... they're the people I've been training fight against since I was 15 - and one day, someday, I will, but not right now."

[7:50 PM] Seirixori: "...Ok. I promise I won't try anything...yet."

[7:52 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh presses a kiss to the back of Seir's head. "Thank you."

[7:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: After a few silent moments, Ryleigh says, "He didn't recognize me... obviously." She laughs, but it sounds defeated. "I had to play nice with the man who punished me for defending an unjust murder. It made me angry and the man in the grey cloak paid the price... he tried to kill us... his friends clearly want to murder the 'Moonborn', but I don't know if he deserved what I sentenced him to."

[8:00 PM] Seirixori: "What did you sentence him to?"

[8:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "The Fytulk Timberlands are... dangerous. If he cries out for help... it might call monsters or predators or the forest itself to him. I cut him, because bloodshed brings scavengers. So I gave him the option to starve, be eaten alive, or be claimed by the forest." She sighs heavily. "I sentenced him to suffer, just as Barton sentenced me."

[8:15 PM] Seirixori: Seir squeezes Ryleigh's hand, "That is probably something I needed to know about for that whole helping you make decisions thing."

[8:27 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh moves the reins to one hand, turning the one Seir has hold of over, lacing their fingers. "I'm sorry... I wasn't thinking," Ryleigh says in a small voice.

[8:36 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs, "It's ok... I didn't really want to bring anything up with the others following anyway. To be honest..." Seir sighs, "There was no reason to keep him alive, and I'm glad you didn't do it personally."

[8:46 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh stays quiet.

[8:49 PM] Seirixori: "What is it?"

[8:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's nothing."

[8:54 PM] Seirixori: Seir pats their linked hands, "It's never 'nothing', but you don't have to tell me right now if you can't."

[8:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thank you... and thank you for riding with me. I wanted you close today," Ryleigh whispers.

[8:59 PM] Seirixori: "Of course... I also really did want to nap." Seir laughs. "There's too many people in the cart," there's no doubt that Seir is pouting, "and I can't fall asleep in another form... yet."

[9:08 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh chuckles. "I'm sorry for waking you so early. You can nap now..." she starts to sing a soft song, a kind of lullaby, some of which is infernal.

[9:12 PM] Seirixori: "Your accent is better when you sing." She mumbles before falling asleep.

[6:46 PM] DM: ---------------

[6:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: When the group stops for lunch, Ryleigh walks over to Seir, takes her hand and asks, "Have a moment? There's something I wanted to ask you about."

[6:54 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods, squeezing Ry's hand, "Yeah."

[6:57 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes them a short distance from the others. Far enough that they'll have some privacy, but close enough that they can keep the others in view. She drops Seir's hand and crosses her arms. "What... do you remember what Takara said to you about Asten?"

[7:02 PM] Seirixori: She shrugs, "Something about more flash than substance... Why?"

[7:04 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "She didn't say anything else?" Ryleigh shifts, uncrossing her arms and grabbing Dawnbringer's handle. "Like... why she doesn't like him?"

[7:13 PM] Seirixori: "Not specifically, no. That was her take on him when I asked. The only other thing she said was to be careful." Seir catches the movement and studies Ryleigh for a moment. "What's wrong, *issui'as*?"

[7:16 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm feeling a little lost..." she says in a small voice.

[7:18 PM] Seirixori: Seir steps forward, resting a hand on the one gripping Dawnbringer. "How so?"

[7:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "How can the god of freedom be okay with this place? Why does he allow Tilman, his guards, and other humans to misuse his name?" Ryleigh looks over Seir's shoulder at Gunnloda, then at the sky. "I'm starting to doubt Asten," she whispers, like it's blasphemy.

[7:34 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns, thinking. "Doubting them might be more of talking to my wife thing, even though that's, uh, a bit different." She shifts, pulling Ryleigh into a hug. "I only really know two gods and while they're both roughly under the same domain, they're very different." Seir sighs, opens her mouth to say something but stops and bites her lip as she changes her mind. "That's not really helpful is it? I don't know, Ryleigh, maybe... Maybe you should be doubting him. Doubt isn't a horrible thing."

[7:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm a paladin, *homashoc*. A holy warrior. I swore an oath to uphold Asten's law and enforce His will. I should have faith that He has a plan for me, that one day He'll show me the truth... but I..." Ryleigh stops talking, her throat bobbing like she can't bring herself to say whatever she was going to.

[8:05 PM] Seirixori: She frowns, "Yeah, well, just because something is a law, doesn't mean it's right." She kind of makes a small growl in the back of her throat as she continues, "You can still be a paladin and you're right to question it. I want to tell you he is testing you, that it's your test to fix this, but I can't and I won't because you're only one person and that's fucking stupid and I am going to punch him in the face." She sounds angrier by the end of it.

[8:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's shoulders deflate a little when she asks, "Could... could you ask Takara for me? About Asten... I'm not worthy of an audience with Him. As I was reminded last night..."

[8:15 PM] Seirixori: "Of course I'll ask her, though I can't be certain if she'll tell me..." She starts grumbling to herself, "Well that's just bullshit. Not worthy, pfft."   She continues for a little while and then asks, "Do you think maybe going in another direction.. Another god might be better if, if it comes to that?"

[8:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "What were you going to say to me... when you mentioned the 2 gods you know are different from each other."

[8:37 PM] Seirixori: Seir's eyes narrow at the avoidance, but she allows it for now. "Takara is... well, she even said herself, a lot more hands on and caring than the others. Mielikki might be my mother, but that's in title only. She rarely did anything for me. Honestly, I'm not even sure she knew the others were bothering me most of the time. Except that thing with..." She sighs, "my point is, I doubt she even notices the passing of time. And maybe Asten is kind of like that. Numb to everything going on with us, because to them, our lives are so short and insignificant that this thing going on is just weeks to him, or even days." She huffs and more to herself says, "Not that I'm going to accept that as an excuse."

[8:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "How are you doing with that?" Ryleigh asks, her hand cupping Seir's cheek. She still looks troubled.

[8:47 PM] Seirixori: "...If I tell you, will you tell me what else is wrong... and maybe answer the question from before?"

[8:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh sighs, then nods 'yes'.

[9:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir grins and nods, "Great. And... it's fine, really. There... there was a brief moment where I thought maybe, I don't know, that things would be different, something would change... But that's just..." She shrugs and her smile is smaller, "I just wanted my mama back and I let myself hope for just a moment that I had one again." Her smile changes again, soft, accepting, "Takara helps."

[9:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'm sorry, *homashoc*." Ryleigh leans forward and presses her lips to Seir's forehead. "You deserve better."

[9:16 PM] Seirixori: Her voice soft and full of conviction, she replies, "So do you."

[9:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh smiles, its authentic but small. "I have you and Rukiya... I think I've been given more than I deserve."

[9:28 PM] Seirixori: Her eyes narrow once more, her hand coming up to point at Ryleigh, "You're ridiculous, and that thick head of yours will one day understand that you deserve more than it thinks." She then takes a moment before looking at Ryleigh expectantly.

[9:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I've never thought about following another god. I never doubted myself, or Asten this way..." she half laughs, it lacking humor "...when I left Ascus, I was so sure of myself, but being back here... I hate this place."

[9:38 PM] Seirixori: "It's a good place to hate." She pauses, "If... Maybe you should... maybe you should think about it, just in case." She frowns and looks down, "I..." She stops and doesn't continue.

[9:40 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh places her hand under Seir's chin, gently nudging her to look back at Ryleigh. "What is it?"

[9:51 PM] Seirixori: "I know it isn't exactly a surprise I don't really like him either. Or it shouldn't be with the way I've reacted when you told me about some of your past with training and the temples..." She tries to look away but it doesn't last long. "I'm sorry, it feels like I'm trying to push you away from him because of that and I..." She bites her lip. "I don't mean to, exactly. It's hard to... to try and tell you to wait or trust him, when I don't believe in it." She starts rambling now, slightly nervous, "And I know you said you believed me about the god thing because I believed it, but that's not the same thing as believing it's true but like that, it shouldn't be that hard to just tell you, hey it's fine, everyone has doubts, it's ok, maybe it is just a test, but I can't. And I'm sorry."

[10:01 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's okay, *homashoc*. I don't believe the same way others do, I've always known I'm a bit odd. Asten's teachings seemed to align with my goals. I asked for his power so I could pursue justice, because it was my best option at the time." Ryleigh suddenly looks uncomfortable, and she shifts her weight. "I didn't care where the power came from... so long as I had enough to do what needed to be done. It's always been hard to explain my relationship with Asten, because it's complicated." She takes Seir's hand. "I wanted him to be proud of me... that I took what he gave me and made the world a better place. I thought if I could wield the power he gave me, I could save lives. But now..." Ryleigh shrugs.

[10:13 PM] Seirixori: "You can still do that though! There's other options and you have that choice now! Him giving you that power got you started, but you're the one using it, shaping it, helping it grow. You can still make it a better place but... you can't make someone proud of something if they don't even care in the first place." The way she says it, Ryleigh can guess Seir has tried to do the same.

[10:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh worries her lip and vulnerability present in her eyes. "Part of me hopes that if Asten did check in... He'd tell my dad... or brother... that I'm..." again she shrugs, this time with tears in her eyes. "It doesn't matter," she says as an afterthought, "they're gone, and I'm here."

[10:34 PM] Seirixori: Seir curses in infernal under her breath. "I forgot, I forgot, I'm sorry." She rests her forehead on Ryleigh's, "I'm so sorry. I wasn't thinking of- I just wanted." She curses again, "and if I ever figure it out it'll probably be too late, fuck!" She sighs, her whole body slumping in defeat. "Maybe they can watch you anyway. And he doesn't have to tell them anything."

[10:42 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Hey," Ryleigh says softly, shushing Seir gently, her arms wrapping around Seir. "You have nothing to apologize for, and there are some things you can't fix."

[10:46 PM] Seirixori: "I can try," she mumbles, holding Ryleigh tight. "Aren't I the one that's supposed to be comforting you?"

[10:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh chuckles. "I take comfort in your presence. I can come to you and I don't have to be alone. That is worth more to me than you'll ever know."

[11:11 PM] Seirixori: She doesn't really respond, only stays in the hug. Eventually she asks, "Will you tell me why you aren't sleeping?"

[11:12 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Nightmares," Ryleigh whispers. "There are a lot of ghosts here for me."

[11:13 PM] Seirixori: "Want to tell me?"

[11:17 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh pulls back so she can look at Seir, and it looks like she's thinking. After a few moments she says, "I saw them take you away in a cage... like they did Clemency, and I couldn't get to you." Her throat bobs with emotion.

[11:28 PM] Seirixori: Seir pulls Ryleigh into another hug, she doesn't say anything, but she starts humming a soothing tune.

[11:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "That's why I went to the temple last night..." Ryleigh's tears dampen Seir's neck. "I woke up screaming, and I... I just wanted comfort and I thought I'd find it at the Asten temple. I didn't want to wake you... but I'm sorry for worrying you."

[11:46 PM] Seirixori: She gives a light chuckle, "There was a chance I might have been awake." She runs her hands up and down Ry's back. "*Issui'as*, if you need it, you can always wake me up. Or even come cuddle with us... Ok that part I'll have to ask Gunnloda about... But don't apologize for needing comfort. I'll be there no matter what."

[11:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh shrugs a little in Seir's arms. "I'm not used to having someone other than Rukiya around to help me. I'm still learning how to do - this."

[11:56 PM] Seirixori: "I know, that's why I'm reminding you."

[12:07 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: She pulls back a little, giving Seir a small smile. "*A ra'r iya a'*. Make sure to double check with your wife... I'd like to stay on her good side... or I might get smote one day."

[12:14 AM] Seirixori: She laughs and only says, "Probably."

[12:22 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Thank you," Ryleigh says softly, pressing her forehead to Seir's.

[12:27 AM] Seirixori: "Whenever you need me, even when you don't think you deserve it."

[12:37 AM] Ryleigh Alastair: There's a near imperceptible nod from Ry, but Seir can feel it.

## Seir and Takara

[1:09 AM] Seirixori: Seir makes her way a little further into the forest. She doesn't sit, wanting to be on guard just in case. She takes the flower out of her hair and spins it between her fingertips. With a heavy sigh she says, "If my birthday wasn't so recent, I swear I only called to you when I needed an answer for something."

[1:17 AM] DM: Takara's human form steps out from behind a tree in front of Seir, which is odd, usually she manifests behind or to the side and appears like she's always been there. "You're a long way from home, sia um."

[1:22 AM] Seirixori: Seir tilts her head, noticing the oddity, and shrugs, "Yeah... Helping a friend try and find the people who are killing anyone who happens to look like the dead Moonborn. Lead us to this... Fun place."

[1:24 AM] DM: "I trust you are being as careful as you can be... in the forest and out."

[1:28 AM] Seirixori: She nods, "Trying to at least, some of my companions however..." She just shrugs again, "No matter what they're told, I don't think they truly understand."

[1:29 AM] DM: "Pride can be dangerous."

[1:32 AM] Seirixori: "And stupid." Seir sighs, "May I ask about Asten again?"

[1:34 AM] DM: There's an almost imperceptible quirk of the corner of her mouth before it disappears, so fast that you're not really sure you saw it. "What's on your mind?"

[1:40 AM] Seirixori: Seir kind of groans and folds her arms, looking at the ground like it has the words she needs. She finally looks back up when she speaks, "I know you said you didn't like him because he's more flash than substance... But is it more than that?"

[1:47 AM] DM: She sort of chuckles, but there's no humor. "Of course it is. He's an invader, a drain on my domains, part of the reason Aella is gone, and has the audacity to claim humanity as his--" she stops short and collects herself. She looks back at Seirixori. "My apologies. Is your friend having trouble?"

[1:54 AM] Seirixori: Seir tries to hide her smile, humor not from the situation, but from the drop in composure. "She is... questioning why he lets this place be filled with a bunch of," she searches for the words and then grins when she remembers, "unfounded arrogant assholes. Not her words exactly..." She toes at the ground a bit, "I... don't think I helped exactly by telling her that even I don't like him and I barely know anything about him."

[2:00 AM] DM: "I am afraid I cannot answer that for him, nor can I ask. I haven't seen him since shortly after his tiff with Vydea. None of us have that I'm aware of... though arrogance certainly seems to be one of his defining traits."

[2:05 AM] Seirixori: Seir's brow furrows in thought, "Is that... Weird that no one has seen him?"

[2:13 AM] DM: She shrugs. "He's in his realm, probably still sulking about losing the fight. A couple centuries is a long time to pout, but I wouldn't put it past him. It's not unheard of for a god to rest in their realm. So long as their faithful are self-sustaining and they have no interest in observing or influencing matters on the Material Plane, there's no reason for them to leave."

[2:18 AM] Seirixori: She nods as she follows along, "Do you know what their fight was about? Was it wanting more control or something else?"

[2:22 AM] DM: She smiles. "I believe the people here call it The War of Sun and Moon."

[2:24 AM] DM: "They didn't fight personally, though Vydea's champion did. Asten underestimated him, I think. Perhaps that's why he's been so petulant."

[2:27 AM] Seirixori: Seir snickers, "Man child. ... God child?" She shrugs. "Think if I bugged him enough he'd come out so I can punch him in the face?" She jokes.

[2:29 AM] DM: "As amusing as that might be, I'm too fond of you to let you take such a risk."

[2:35 AM] Seirixori: Seir pouts, "Aww... <redacted>" She makes a motion with her hand and has to pause and clear her throat before she moves on. "What are the chances Vydea might talk to me if I uh, try to do that?"

[2:37 AM] DM: She tilts her head. "You want to speak to Vydea?"

[2:40 AM] Seirixori: Seir shrugs and starts picking at her bracers "Honestly, before the stuff with Gunnloda, I thought it'd be neat to see if I could talk to more. Now..., it'd still be interesting to talk to more than three, but now I guess I want to see what it takes to get their attention..."

[2:47 AM] DM: "I don't know if she would without a nudge from me. We're all different, but the strength of one's devotion and conviction plays a role. Prayer is better than not. Being heard is one thing. Getting us to respond, let alone manifest, is quite another."

[2:50 AM] Seirixori: She makes a face that's not quite disgust, "Those... are definitely not things that are exactly in my... wheelhouse."

[2:51 AM] DM: She smiles and steps forward, cupping her hand around Seir's flower.  "That's what this is for. "

[2:55 AM] Seirixori: "Oh," her face reddens a little, "Right." Her hand instinctively goes to the token in her pocket. Then she kind of laughs, "Or get thrown into an arena to fight your friends for a god's amusement."

[2:56 AM] Seirixori: She goes quiet, as she organizes her thoughts again, "Is it... difficult if someone decides the god they got their power from is no longer someone they wish to follow anymore and switches allegiances?"

[10:16 AM] DM: "I suppose it depends on your definition of difficulty. It is probably no more difficult than receiving the power from them in the first place. It may mean a difference in the strength of that power, or a different kind, but... if someone were to come to me, for example, and tell me that they were a priest of Witen who was tired of violence and wanted to follow a path of life and love, I'd allow them to serve me in whatever manner I thought they'd be suited for. That may mean power or magic, it may not. It is dependent on both the person and the god."

[2:02 PM] Seirixori: There's the slightest of movement of her head, her thoughts running so rampant that she almost doesn't react. She goes to start talking again but stops herself more than once. She's not fighting herself on not saying something, but more like which topic. "I imagine you can deny people to your realm?"

[2:06 PM] DM: "Realms are populated by mutual consent. They must want to be there and we must allow it. Generally, it's more or less automatic, guided by actions, decisions, desires on your part during your mortal lifespans... but yes, I believe the answer to your question is that if I did not want a particular person to be part of my realm after death, I can prevent it."

[2:08 PM] Seirixori: "... is there a possibility that Asten only wants humans?"

[2:14 PM] DM: She opens her mouth, but stops herself before speaking and frowns. "I suppose, in theory... but I've only heard of such things being done by more... specialized, minor gods. You don't get to be as powerful as he and I are by being picky with your followers. Though..." she pauses again and her frown deepens like she had a rather repulsive idea cross her mind. "...the majority of our power comes from the belief of the living, not the souls of the dead. It is possible that a god might court belief for the living with one hand and bar entrance to his realm with the other, but that would be incredibly distasteful."

[2:19 PM] Seirixori: "He doesn't exactly look like he has any taste." Seir says, kind of off-handed as her mind is still going over other things, hearing what Takara is saying but not yet processing. "Do you think it's possible he's as petty as he sounds and behind the killing of people who look like the Moonborn?"

[2:28 PM] DM: "That's a tricky question to answer. There are many ways a god may be 'behind' something, and not all of them involve our knowledge or interference. Asten himself is not likely to be involved in anything happening on the Material Plane currently because he likely hasn't set foot here in nearly two hundred years. I'm not even sure if he has an active champion to work through. However, his followers are another matter entirely. Mortals love to do things and claim it was the will of their gods. Sometimes they are right, sometimes they are wrong. Sometimes it's what they think their god would want, despite not having the kind of capacity for knowledge, understanding, and reason that we have. Sometimes they are intentionally misleading others. Is it possible some priest or paladin of his is doing it? Is it possible the king who claims to be his right hand is doing it? Yes. Are they? I don't know. It is not a priority for me and Moki is busy with other matters anyway. I would expect Vydea is probably taking an interest since it is her champion being targeted."

[2:30 PM] Seirixori: She told her head, her eyes focusing again as her other question is briefly forgotten, "So they are alive, then?"

[2:31 PM] DM: She looks confused. "Who?"

[2:36 PM] Seirixori: "The Moonborn, Vydea's champion, I... think? " She asks, suddenly wondering if she misunderstood some things.

[2:44 PM] DM: "Vydea has named her champion Moonborn since Lucas, yes... you said they were being targeted, or people who look like them, anyway. Whether they are alive or not, I don't know. Whether she has chosen a new champion or not, I don't know. We have not spoken about it recently."

[2:49 PM] Seirixori: "Ah," she nods, "I don't even know if that would have made any difference to what we're doing so we can get out of this shitty place." Seir sighs. She hums in thought, about to say something but decides against it. "Thank you."

[3:05 PM] DM: "Of course. I am sorry that I don't have all the answers you want."

[3:12 PM] Seirixori: She laughs a little with a shrug, "Where's the fun in knowing everything?" Seir moves to hug Takara, saying thank you again and definitely mumbles a word in infernal that is a mix between mom and aunt, like she couldn't decide which one to use and just combined them. Her face darkens as she pulls away, "Ok, bye." She says it quickly, turning just as fast to head back to the group.

[3:18 PM] DM: She hugs back, but says, "Before you go... I want you to be especially vigilant in this forest. It's always had a wild heart that catches people unawares... but there's something dark and it's spreading. I'm sure Mielikki or the druids taught you about proper care of the forest. Your friends may need that guidance."

[3:25 PM] Seirixori: She gives a wry smile, "Let's hope they listen."

## Campfire

[7:01 PM] DM: 18 Takaramont 3Y20

Fytulk Timberlands between Arolis and Wandermere

[7:04 PM] DM: So Ryleigh left a man bleeding, tied to a tree. She and Seir rode off on Adventure, followed shortly by the rest of you in the cart. You traveled a couple hours down the road until there was a break to stretch your legs and eat. Ry and Seir walked a short distance away and had another conversation. Ry came back to the party, but Seir walked a bit further away before returning. Now, you're on your way again... headed east towards Kenbow, though you won't reach a town by nightfall.

[7:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "So, tonight we'll need to camp in the Fytulk. It's mildly safer than camping directly off the road." After saying this, Ryleigh adds, "There are also camp sites, but I'm not sure if there will be others there... or occasional guards passing through."

[7:09 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Do you have an order in which you all keep watch for the evening?"

[7:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Not really, as long as we take watch in pairs. I prefer to take first or last watch, just because its easier for me." She gestures to her armor.

[7:12 PM] Urrak: "Aye, we usually jus' figure it out as we go," Urrak rolls her shoulders and repositions herself, "An' I'm fine stoppin' anywhere, but if we can avoid guards, let's."

[7:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh nods her head, and continues to travel, choosing to find a place in the Fytulk for them to camp.

[7:17 PM] DM: The day continues. There are a couple guards you see patrolling. These are mounted and wearing brown leather with brown cloaks that have red underneath them and the symbol of Ascus in muted colors across their chest. They pass by with little issue.

[7:19 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Their uniforms are different along the Fytulk, because of the danger the forest poses." Ryleigh offers to the group, without prompting.

[7:20 PM] DM: Ry and Seir occasionally ride into the forest ahead of the cart, looking for a place to camp, and late in the day, they find one.

[7:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: When they come riding back, Ryleigh says, "We found a campsite that's not visible from the road, and not deep enough in the forest to make me uncomfortable."

[7:21 PM] Brimeia: "What exactly is a Fytulk anyway?"

[7:25 PM] Gayle Silbando: "The forest is alive. At least from stories my father would tell me as a child. 'Don't make too much noise or else the Fytulk will snatch you, Gayle!'" she says, imitating a gruff stern voice.

[7:26 PM] Urrak: "That's comfortin'. Glad we're spendin' th' night in it."

[7:27 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh hums at Gayle's statement. "The forest will sneak up on you if you aren't careful." She grins menacingly, almost comically. Then her expressions changes back to a serious one. "Everyone knows not to stray too far off the paths, or make too much noise, because it might call monsters or predators or the forest itself to you. We'll need to keep our voices down..."

[7:29 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia chuckles at  Gayle and Ryleigh's explanations. "Alive? Like what, the trees walk or something?"

[7:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir sighs, rubbing her temples a bit, "Please don't touch anything when we settle. I'll take care of the camp... and the fire and anything else that means touching things from the forest." She looks at everyone to make sure they heard her, her eyes lingering longer on Urrak than any of the others.

[7:30 PM] Urrak: Urrak pauses as she gets out of the cart, feeling Seir's eyes on her, "...What? I'm not about t' mess with haunted fuckin' trees."

[7:32 PM] Seirixori: Seir shakes her head and rolls her eyes, but she doesn't respond.

[7:36 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle also makes her way out of the cart. "Can we help you carry anything to the site, Seirixori?"

[7:39 PM] DM: The clearing's wide enough for the four tents, and there's a small pond to the side where the horses can rest.

[7:40 PM] Urrak: Urrak leads the horses to the pond, pats their heads and walks back to the campsite

[7:41 PM] Seirixori: "No, I've got it."

[7:41 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh dismounts Adventure, she sings to her for a little bit, then watches Seir do her thing.

[7:44 PM] DM: Seir sits in the clearing and starts her ritual. Fey spirits of spectral raccoons, monkeys, and birds appear and start gathering fallen wood and build a campfire. They reach into your bags and the cart and pull out and set up tents and any prepared rations and food you have ready. In a matter of minutes, you have a fully functional campsite.

[7:45 PM] Sariel: "Neat."

[7:45 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle looks over to Ryleigh with an impressed expression and makes an "ok" symbol with her hand.

[7:47 PM] Urrak: "It certainly beats doin' it ourselves." Urrak stretches her arms over her head and sits down by the fire

[7:47 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh smiles at Gayle, and winks at her, then goes to sit near the campfire.

[7:47 PM] Seirixori: Seir grins after the spirits are gone, "Ooh, monkeys!"

[7:48 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia squints, glancing between Gayle and Ryleigh, and finally just shrugs.

[7:49 PM] Brimeia: "What'd you end up doing with our uniformed friend back there?" she says as she settles in by the fire too.

[7:50 PM] Sariel: "Nothing. Just tied him to a tree and left."

[7:51 PM] Urrak: "Tied him t' a tree?" Urrak looks over at Ryleigh for a long moment, "Well then, that's one way t' deal with  him, I s'pose."

[7:52 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I tied him to a tree, cut him, and left. Blood attracts things in this forest... noise does too... I left his fate up to the Fytulk," Ryleigh says solemnly.

[7:52 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia frowns.

[7:53 PM] Brimeia: "If you were just gonna leave him to die, I wish you would've let it be by my hand instead."

[7:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh raises an eyebrow. "Why?"

[7:53 PM] Urrak: "Right, so yer devil could have a snack? Don't think that's the best idea, Bri."

[7:54 PM] Gayle Silbando: "That would have been the easy way out, unfortunately. The things in this forest..." she looks out into the trees.

[7:55 PM] Seirixori: "Do you always think it's best to tell everyone's secrets with people who have only been traveling with us for not even a full day?"

[7:55 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia gives Urrak a pointed look.

[7:56 PM] Urrak: Urrak raises her hands, "Whoops."

[7:57 PM] Seirixori: "Whoops." Seir deadpans and then rolls her eyes and starts grumbling to herself in infernal.

[7:56 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle shrugs. "She has a point."

[7:56 PM] Brimeia: "To keep..." Brimeia pauses and glances at Gayle. "My fiery friend from causing any problems."

[7:57 PM] Brimeia: She skims her fingers over her cheek absently.

[7:58 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Gayle is... trustworthy. You know that I wouldn't have invited someone to travel with us lightly. I believe she will be discrete with anything she hears while here."

[7:59 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia makes a grumbling noise, then shrugs in a resigned sort of way.

[7:59 PM] Seirixori: "Her being trustworthy isn't the issue."

[8:00 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh moves to take Seir's hand, and whispers something to her in infernal.

[8:01 PM] Seirixori: Seir huffs and starts digging through her bag.

[8:03 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I am not one to ah, as they say, spill the beans, not sure what that actually means as that is such a waste of beans," she clears her throat, "But the wariness of a stranger knowing these things is valid and I respect that. Dangerous people will do things to know information."

[8:05 PM] Brimeia: "There are ways of making people 'spill beans' whether they want to or not."

[8:06 PM] Sariel: "Y'all are makin' me hungry."

[8:07 PM] DM: There are rations set out by the spirits.

[8:07 PM] Seirixori: Seir points to the food that's been set out, "You can eat it whenever you want."

[8:07 PM] Urrak: "As hungry as the boogeymen in th' woods?" Urrak chuckles and lays down, her hands tucked behind her head.

[8:07 PM] Brimeia: "I would've liked to keep my situation on a need to know basis."

[8:08 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle chuckles at Sariel and Urrak and pulls out some fruit from her bag to add to the rations.

[8:08 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Speaking of your situation, you wanted to kill him to appease it?" Ryleigh probes.

[8:09 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle pats Brimeia's knee and gives her a small apologetic smile.  She walks over to where the horses are.

[8:11 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia pauses a moment, waiting until Gayle is farther, then nods. "I don't know if it'd work, but she seemed really intent on getting me to kill more for her. It's why she made me kill in my sleep."

[8:13 PM] Urrak: "Need t' give her some snacks soon then, before ye get another lil 'gift' from her. Unless we plan on visitin' the hells after our lil vacation here."

[8:14 PM] DM: Gunnloda: "We're not goin' t' the Hells anytime soon."

[8:14 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's brows furrow, and she ignores Urrak's comment. "So as long as it's satisfied, it won't make you kill in your sleep?"

[8:16 PM] Brimeia: "I..hope? Who knows, she's a devil. But I'd rather not piss her off again. She tends to set my face on fire. And yanno, show me the most gruesome possible death of my friends."

[8:18 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I'll... keep that in mind. Next time," Ryleigh says, her brows still pulled together.

[8:19 PM] Brimeia: "Thanks. I know it's a weird thing to ask for."

[8:20 PM] Urrak: "Did ye at least get any info from the guy before ya left him fer th' wolves, Ry?"

[8:21 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "No. He spoke as much as he did on the cart."

[8:22 PM] Urrak: "What a waste. Maybe y'should've let th' devil eat him. At least it would solve one of our problems."

[8:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I didn't know that it had threatened Brimeia, or I might have considered that as an option," Ryleigh says sharply to Urrak.

[8:27 PM] Urrak: Urrak sits up and shrugs, "Hey I didn't know either, no need t' get testy. Jus' figured if ye go through all the trouble o' capturin' th' guy and convincing th' guards t' let ye have him, it would'a been nice to get some answers.  Though I gotta say, I'm oddly impressed ye disposed of hin th' way y'did. It's...different fer ya."

[8:28 PM] Urrak: "Did he jus' uniquely piss ye off, or what?"

[8:29 PM] DM: Gunnloda frowns.

[8:30 PM] DM: She gets up, grabs some of the food, and excuses herself. "I'll go keep Gayle comp'ny."

[8:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir snorts, "Like you'd know what's different for her."

[8:33 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh places a hand on Seir's leg, but turns her attention to Urrak. "It's not different for me. I'm not merciful. He believed the 'Moonborn' needed to die, and while I don't believe in the 'Moonborn' I know people are suffering because of the resurfaced legend. I sentenced him to suffer in Fytulk... and I'm not sure he deserved it, but it's too late to change my decision."

[8:34 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns as Gunnloda goes, her eyes not leaving her until she gets to the horses, then she focuses back on Urrak, only stopping her next words when Ry touches her leg.

[8:36 PM] Urrak: "Quite th' 'sentence'. I'd say remind me not t' piss ye off but, well, I've already done that plenty, clearly."

[8:37 PM] Sariel: Sariel snorts.

[8:37 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's eyes land on Sariel when she snorts. Her eyes narrow, but she doesn't comment.

[8:40 PM] Urrak: Urrak sucks her teeth and opens a ration, "Well, alright then."

[8:41 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Did you have something you wanted add, Sariel?" Ryleigh says pointedly.

[8:43 PM] Sariel: "I mean, not really. It just can't be overstated how much Urrak clearly gets on your nerves."

[8:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "It's not without reason, but I suppose you only see what you want to."

[8:46 PM] Sariel: Sariel quirks an eyebrow, "I only see what you show me."

[8:46 PM] Urrak: "Oh I would love t' know th' reason, Ry. Why don't ye share with th' class." Urrak leans back on her hands.

[8:48 PM] Sariel: "Urrak, at least half of it is because you instigate fights. Calm down."

[8:48 PM] Seirixori: Seir snarls, her words said through gritted teeth, "Don't you dare act like a fucking idiot, like you don't know what you did."

[8:49 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Again, Ry lays a hand on Seir's thigh and whispers something to Seir in infernal.

[8:49 PM] Sariel: Sariel pauses, and blinks at Seir.

[8:51 PM] Sariel: "Actually, I think you should share with the class. What's bothering you?"

[8:52 PM] Urrak: "What isn't?" Urrak grumbles.

[8:52 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "My problem with Urrak is that she constantly says and does things to hurt us and then expects us to simply forgive her actions. She apologizes, then repeats her errors, and pretends that she's the victim each time. She never learns and that's frustrating, but more than that... it's hurtful."

[8:55 PM] Seirixori: Seir continues to seethe, and she can't help but add, "Then she throws around the word *family* but continues to treat some of us like shit. Never listening, acting like she knows what's best and like she has all the experience. Maybe for once in your fucking life you should ask people what they want instead of just doing it."

[8:58 PM] Brimeia: "Uh...we're supposed to be staying real quiet right?"

[8:58 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia glances around.

[8:58 PM] DM: Roll perception, Bri.

[9:02 PM] Brimeia: ((3 perception)) (DM to Bri: you see *darkness* lol you're not even sure you see the horses anymore)

[8:59 PM] Urrak: "It's hard t' change when every time I try I get fuckin' shut down.  If I hadn't learned I'd be dead right now at th' hands o' that freaky fuckin' captain from yesterday. I did what I was told, I hid and waited by th' cart when th' coast was clear." She takes a breath, " I've been tryin' but none of ye seem t' trust me enough t' show it. Maybe I'm jus' fuckin' tired o' bein' talked down to." Urrak quirks an eyebrow, "Ain't like either of you haven't done th' same. " she straightens up a little, "An' I'm not 'throwin' around' the word 'family'. I mean it. All o' ye piss me off like siblings, but godsdammit if I won't back ye up when ye need it."

[9:00 PM] Urrak: "I don't jus' walk away."

[9:01 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Family doesn't treat each other like this..." Ryleigh says softly.

[9:03 PM] Sariel: "I'd imagine family has at least a modicum of trust and good faith between them. Something that seems to be lacking  here."

[9:04 PM] Urrak: "My thoughts exactly."

[9:05 PM] Seirixori: Seir, grits her teeth even more, "Trying? Really? Not five minutes ago you're telling people's secrets! We're in Limagante and you start yelling at Ryleigh in the middle of strangers about stuff people don't need to know. You decide to punch her in the back of the head because she won't tell you shit about Kola who could hear us! What is there to trust!?"

[9:05 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "*Homashoc*," Ryleigh says sternly. "I really need you to calm down."

[9:07 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh leans over, trying to get Seir to focus on her. When she does, she mouths something to her. <>

[9:08 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia glances around them at the surrounding forest nervously. Just because she doesn't think the forest stories are true, doesn't mean they aren't. And with half the party arguing, she's suddenly less confident about their ability to fend off any wild beasts that might be lurking about.

[9:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir blinks, her eyes focusing and she frowns, but by the end her shoulders slump and she looks away.

[9:09 PM] Urrak: Urraks sniffs, "I offered t' leave  once an' ye had me stay, so, since you'd like me t' start, what is it you want?"

[9:10 PM] Urrak: "Pissin' off this group isn't my goal, hurtin' any of ye isn't what I  want."

[9:12 PM] Brimeia: "Just because you don't want to, doesn't mean you haven't or won't. Take it from me." Brimeia gives a half smile and shrug.

[9:12 PM] Urrak: "Yeah I'm figurin' that out..." she says earnestly

[9:13 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes a deep breath, her head not turning and her voice is low and somber, "I want you to realize we're not orcs. We're not half-orcs, You aren't with them and you have nothing to prove to any of us. Stop trying to be anything but yourself. Whatever that is. You want us to trust you, but you don't trust us either. Learn to trust us. If you did, you wouldn't snap when we told you to just please wait before we give out information. Please wait before rushing off into a fight by yourself, just... *wait*."

[9:15 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh takes Seir's hand and gives her an approving nod, with a smile.

[9:16 PM] Urrak: "Okay," Urrak sniffs again and runs a hand across her mouth, "Okay."

[9:17 PM] Seirixori: Seir does finally turn to face Urrak, the corner of her lips turned up just slightly, "Listening to me, as I've said, would also go a really, really long way."

[9:18 PM] Urrak: "Aye, it would," Urrak chuckles a bit, "'Sides, I can't leave, ye guys are th' only thing keepin' me from chargin' int'a something I ain't anywhere near ready fer."

[9:21 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh looks at Urrak, and says, "We're getting there though, and I promise... none of us have forgotten about it."

[9:20 PM] Sariel: "Even when we do wait, y'all are not the most forthcoming with information. Working on that would help."

[9:22 PM] Seirixori: Seir bites her lip, "There are... some things that currently need to stay quiet and it is honestly safer for no one else to know. Especially since I don't know enough." She shifts, looking down, before addressing Sariel again. "Though I think I should have warned you earlier... at the inn.. when I left."

[9:23 PM] Seirixori: She groans, "I left because I had to, because had I not... there would have been a bear of a problem." She kind of snickers.

[9:23 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "And she doesn't mean metaphorically," Ryleigh adds, with a half smile.

[9:24 PM] Urrak: "I've been tackled by her as bear before it's uh, not fun."

[9:24 PM] Sariel: "Actually talking about why you need to suddenly leave would go a long way of easing my nerves for sure." Sariel slowly drags her eyes over to Ryleigh as she finishes talking.

[9:26 PM] Brimeia: "I don't think Seirixori was able to right then. I don't think I've ever seen her that pissed before."

[9:27 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Seirixori removes herself when she's angry, but you're also wondering where I disappear to." Ryleigh tilts her head. "Right?"

[9:28 PM] Sariel: "Yes."

[9:28 PM] Seirixori: Seir just shrugs sheepishly when the other two answer and she crosses her arms as she leans into Ryleigh.

[9:30 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ry wraps her arm around Seir as she leans into her., but she addresses Sariel, "I work for an organization that fights tyranny. They've been aiding us in our quest to locate the Moonborn, it's how I know where we should go next."

[9:31 PM] Urrak: "*Super spy* " Urrak whispers loudly

[9:32 PM] Brimeia: "I thought you said that guy is gonzo," Brimeia blurts.

[9:33 PM] Sariel: "What guy?"

[9:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I believe the Moonborn is dead, but someone here has convinced people otherwise and innocent people are being hurt - are dying."

[9:36 PM] Brimeia: "Ok, so still just whoever these bastards think is the secret MoonGuy, then."

[9:36 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yes, because it doesn't matter what I believe, what matters is locating the source of all of this."

[9:38 PM] Urrak: "The guy you captured, an' his friends on the roof,  he knew we were pokin' around, didn't he?  Or...well he seemed real keen on gettin' Gayle's attention. Is she lookin' for him too?"

[9:41 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "She had been asking questions about Moonborn, and they want to kill whoever they believe is the Moonborn. It's likely they thought she knew more than she does. I don't have any information on the people in grey cloaks, other than what he told us - that they was to kill the Moonborn."

[9:41 PM] Seirixori: Seir starts only paying partial attention to the conversation, content on just checking out the surrounding area, wondering about what stuff she could learn from the trees and plants.

[9:43 PM] Urrak: "I see...How long till we reach Kenbow, then?" She crosses her legs and stretches her back

[9:46 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "We'll be in Kenbow in the next 2 to 3 days, depending on travel time and such," She answers Urrak.

[9:43 PM] Brimeia: "Wait, that reminds me, how do you know Gayle is trustworthy anyway? You don't trust easy."

[9:46 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I don't, but I can't tell you," Ryleigh says to Brimeia.

[9:47 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia makes a low grumbling sound, but doesn't argue the point. "You... know her then? Er, are you allowed to tell me that?"

[9:48 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "We have similar goals, you could say. So in a matter of speaking, yes, I know her."

[9:50 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh waves to Gunnloda, signaling its okay for them to come back over.

[9:50 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia frowns, not sure if that helped or if she's just more confused. "Alright then." Brimeia sounds a little hesitant but continues with more confidence. "As long as you're sure it's okay."

[9:51 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I wouldn't have let her come along if she was a threat." Ryleigh runs her hand up and down Seir's back.

## Gayle and Gunnloda

8:32 PM] DM: Gunnloda brings Gayle some bread and salted meat to go with her fruit. "Didn't think y'needed t'be out here on your own."

[8:35 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle turns around at the sound of the voice and she smiles and takes the offering. "This was thoughtful of you, thank you...Gunnloda, right?"

[8:36 PM] DM: "That's me."

[8:38 PM] DM: "They don't mean t'be rude... just a lot of sensitive information that they deal with. They don't trust easy."

[8:43 PM] Gayle Silbando: "It makes sense though, like what Brimeia said about people having ways to find the information they need no matter what the cost," she splits the salted meat in half and offers some to Gunnloda. "If I knew something I wasn't supposed to, I could endanger someone without even knowing it. Who knows what kind of people we're going to encounter."

[8:45 PM] Gayle Silbando: "But it does sound like you bunch have encountered quite a variety of things."

[8:45 PM] DM: Gunnloda would never refuse an offer of food, even if she had brought herself some, so she takes it. "I'd guess y'probably know at least somethin' of the kind of people that're here. You're from here, right?"

[8:52 PM] Gayle Silbando: "The people here just don't want any trouble from people who don't look like them or if their authority is questioned," she scoffs, "But otherwise, I suppose if you don't stir trouble or make eye contact, they won't think much of it."

[8:56 PM] DM: Gunnloda glances back at the others, taking note of their tense body language, and keeps her eyes in that direction. "I'm from the west m'self... not far from Arolis, actually. I'm worried about the others. M'wife could handle herself, but I'm worried 'bout what she might do if the others get int' trouble."

[9:04 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle's eyes follow where Gunnloda's are, looking at the others. "Wife?" she smiles, then looks concerned at seeing the tense body language as well. "If I can help, I will protect the others from dangerous people but it looks like this group is well rounded."

[9:05 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Arolis is also a ways away from here. Ryleigh mentioned Riverrun as well. I've actually been living there for a few years but I've lived in other places as my father moved us around."

[9:07 PM] DM: "The pink one," Gunnloda says with a smile.

[9:06 PM] Gayle Silbando: ((can Gayle or Gunnloda hear any voices elevating?))

[9:07 PM] DM: It's not loud enough to make out any of the words, but you catch a little bit of the noise.

[9:09 PM] Gayle Silbando: "She's awesome," Gayle smiles back. "I hope they're doing okay over there, but the noise might travel and we don't want to alert anything..."

[9:11 PM] DM: "If they get t'be too loud, I have ways t' make sure they stop," she grins, turning enough to wink at Gayle. "They've got a lotta pent up issues they don't like t'talk about."

[9:18 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Noted," she nods. "Even with those long cart and horse rides?"

[9:19 PM] DM: "Mmm... they just like t'ignore things 'til they explode. Guess I can't really say much. I'm just learnin' t'talk things out m'self."

[9:25 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle chuckles. "I feel you. It was like my brother and I. Instead of talking about things as kids, we just wrestled."

[9:26 PM] DM: "Y'still see your family?"

[9:29 PM] Gayle Silbando: She pauses and gives Gunnloda a short head shake. "Started working pretty young and haven't gone back home in a while," she doesn't necessarily lie.

[9:30 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Is your family all back in Arolis?"

[9:32 PM] DM: "No, I'm from further west. Dhog Lodir. I grew up in Bom Khorbor, under the mountains closest to Arolis. They're scattered 'round here an' there. I haven't really been back home in a while either."

[9:40 PM] Gayle Silbando: "It's beautiful over there. Is the rest of the group from around Vyon then?"

[9:45 PM] DM: "No, they're from all over. Ryleigh's from Ascus. Two from Shasem, Seirixori's from Ardabeh, and Urrak's from 'cross the sea in Nampuli."

[9:49 PM] Gayle Silbando: She looks surprised. "Wow, just a little bit of everything. That's good that everyone can bring something different to the table."

[9:50 PM] DM: "Looks like they're done talkin' if you wanna head back t'the fire."

[9:51 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle nods and follows Gunnloda back to the others.

## Camp

[9:51 PM] DM: Gunnloda sits next to Seir.

[9:52 PM] Brimeia: "Not being a threat and not being ready for secrets is different, but I understand."

[9:52 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle has a seat next to Ryleigh.

[9:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "They may have some questions for you," Ryleigh says to Gayle, smiling. "You don't have to answer anything you don't want to, though."

[9:54 PM] Brimeia: "Sorry about that," Bri nods towards Gayle. "Thanks for stepping away. I appreciate that."

[9:54 PM] Seirixori: "Yay, wife!" Seir whispers when Gunnloda comes back. She tugs her a little, getting her to move so Seir can wrap her arms around her and still stay close to Ry.

[9:55 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I am open to any questions you may have," she looks around the group. "Trust is important, as is privacy," her eyes looking at Brimeia.

[9:56 PM] Urrak: "We were jus' wonderin' how yer mission is dovetailin' with ours.  Are you an' Ryleigh both, what ye'd call, coworkers?"

[9:56 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I said we had similar goals."

[9:59 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "And you don't have to answer that if you don't want to. I was hoping they'd ask you where you from or what your favorite food was." Ryleigh smiles, quirking an eyebrow at Gayle.

[10:00 PM] DM: Perception checks for those of you staying aware of your surroundings.

[10:00 PM] Urrak: "You know I go right t' the meat o' th' issue," Urrak jokes

[10:01 PM] Urrak: ((11)) Brimeia: ((11)) Ryleigh Alastair: ((6)) Gayle Silbando: ((6)) Seirixori: ((21)) Sariel: ((22))

[10:02 PM] Brimeia: "Ok, ok, what about.. who are you?"

[10:02 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle smiles and looks to Ryleigh. "I think coworkers is appropriate. With all the Moonborn things, we just want to get to the bottom of it and keep people safe. And my favorite food is roasted pig and corn tortillas," she laughs.

[10:04 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia opens her mouth as if to question the answer, then shrugs again. "That sounds fantastic. Do you know where we can get some?"

[10:06 PM] Gayle Silbando: "If you can find me a pig, I can make it," she says excitedly. "As for who I am though, that's a big question. Is there something specific you would like to know?"

[10:06 PM] Urrak: "Where are ye from?" Urrak offers

[10:09 PM] Gayle Silbando: "I live in Arolis, but my family is from a small town in Rodoza and I grew up in too many places."

[10:09 PM] Brimeia: "Oh hey, we've been there before."

[10:11 PM] Urrak: "A good friend of ours is there. At least I think she is. We haven't heard from her in awhile." Urrak smiles softly.

[10:11 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Gunnloda mentioned that you were all from all over the map."

[10:12 PM] Sariel: "I live on a boat, mostly."

[10:13 PM] Urrak: "Aye, we all got wrapped up in a very strange turn of events a few months back. It was rough but, it did bring us all t'gether."

[10:15 PM] DM: You spend the rest of the night chatting and bonding around the campfire until it's bedtime. Watches pass uneventfully thanks to your ability to not shout at each other, and morning comes. Long rests, reset your stuff, etc. etc.

[10:16 PM] DM: Seir uses her ritual to pack up camp the next morning and you're on your way. How is Seir traveling the next day?

[10:18 PM] Seirixori: ((cart))

## 19 Takaramont

[10:21 PM] DM: So you're riding along down the road through the woods. Everyone but Ryleigh's on the cart, Ry riding ahead a few lengths to check for oncoming traffic.

[10:21 PM] DM: Perception checks, please.

[10:22 PM] Urrak: ((5)) Seirixori: ((15)) Gayle Silbando: ((4)) Brimeia: ((10))

[10:22 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: ((16)) (You hear voices ahead.)

[10:26 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh turns and mouths something to Seir, then rides ahead.

## Ryleigh

10:28 PM] DM: Coming around the bend, you see a cart with a single ox, three of the mounted guards are standing around it with a fourth still on his horse. There appear to be more figures seated or kneeling on the ground in the middle of the group.

[10:30 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh rides Adventure closer, but in a non-aggressive manner.

[10:32 PM] DM: There are three commoners with their hands bound in front of them, kneeling next to the cart. Two are dark skinned half-elves, the third is a dragonborn. One of the guards is holding a pendant in his hands, looking expectantly at the trio. Another of the guards holds his hand up to Ry. "Stay back, traveler. Official business."

[10:35 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I have group following behind me, I'm afraid our cart won't be able to pass, as you're blocking our path to continue."

[10:36 PM] DM: Guard: "Then they'll just have to wait."

[10:36 PM] DM: The guard holding the pendant jostles it. "Your time's running out. Which of you owns this?"

[10:43 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Very well," Ryleigh says, she turns around and rides back to the group.

## Cart

[10:27 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns and asks Urrak to slow the cart.

[10:28 PM] Urrak: Urrak nods and tugs a bit at the reins, "Somethin' wrong?"

[10:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir just places a finger to her lips for them to stay quiet as she tries to focus on where Ryleigh went and what she might have heard.

[10:30 PM] Urrak: Urrak nods again

[10:31 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia grips her greataxe, just in case.

[10:31 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle's eyes narrow as she looks at her surroundings.

[10:32 PM] DM: Perception checks.

10:33 PM] Gayle Silbando: ((6)) Urrak: ((4)) Brimeia: ((7)) Sariel: ((7))

[10:33 PM] Seirixori: ((24)) (DM to Seir: You can hear the sound of multiple horses, hooves pawing at the ground, soft grunts. You also make out a couple humanoid voices, though you can't quite make them out.)

[10:37 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns, "I.... Can't tell if that's bad or not." She whispers. "It's... Horses and people, but..."

[10:38 PM] Urrak: "Better safe than sorry," Urrak swallows and straightens her back

[10:39 PM] Gayle Silbando: "Any color on their robes you can see?"

[10:41 PM] Seirixori: Seir kind of laughs, "Can't see them." She taps her ear as she continues to try and figure it out.

[10:45 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh comes riding back to the group. "There's 4 guards up ahead... they have 3 non humans bound and are inquiring about a pendant. I... I don't know what we should do," she admits.

[10:46 PM] [10:47 PM] Urrak: "Can't ye just talk t' th' guards? They listened to ye  last time. Y'know do yer Asten thing."

[10:45 PM] DM: Perception checks again.

[10:46 PM] Sariel: ((10)) Gayle Silbando: ((6)) Ryleigh Alastair: ((3))

[10:46 PM] Seirixori: ((23)) Urrak: ((17)) (DM to Seir and Urrak: You hear a commotion suddenly start and what is probably a woman crying out/screaming.)

[10:47 PM] Urrak: Urrak perks up "Someone's in trouble! I heard a scream, a woman's."

[10:48 PM] Gayle Silbando: Gayle scrunches her nose at asking the dumb question and her eyes go to Ryleigh when she returns. "And if they don't listen...I would like to help the-" she stops when Urrak mentions the screaming.

[10:48 PM] Seirixori: Seir tenses, "Urrak," she hisses.

[10:48 PM] Urrak: "I...we should....I want t' help." Urrak's hands tighten around the reins

[10:51 PM] Seirixori: "Hold on, I can... Maybe I can distract them."

[10:52 PM] Brimeia: "Are we sure this is a good idea?"

[10:52 PM] Brimeia: Brimeia looks toward Ryleigh.

[10:53 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "I won't always have the power to protect you guys... let alone strangers. They have a dark skinned half-elven woman," Ryleigh says, looking at Seir first, then at Gayle in a knowing way.

[11:03 PM] Gayle Silbando: "They're going to kill her. But even if we get them away from the guards, there are witnesses."

[11:03 PM] Urrak: "There's gotta be somethin' we can do. I get th' feelin' they'll kill more folks than jus' her."

[11:05 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: Ryleigh's brows furrow, and her expression is worried. "We have to pick our battles here, Urrak. This might not be one of them..."

[11:06 PM] Urrak: Urrak bites her lip, but doesn't protest.

[11:06 PM] Seirixori: Seir turns to Ryleigh, "Ryleigh, are there wolves in this forest?"

[11:06 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Yes."

[11:08 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes a deep breath and summons eight wolves, "Please go lead those guards into the forest, if they won't follow, try and get them far away from the woman." She directs them ahead of them where she heard the sound.

[11:08 PM] DM: The wolves disappear into the forest on either side of the road.

[11:09 PM] Seirixori: "If they can at least get them away from her, maybe we can get her with us."

[11:10 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Then let's continue on," Ryleigh pulls Adventure back around. She hesitates for a moment then holds her hand out to Seir. "If we intervene, I'll need your help, there's 4 of them."

[11:10 PM] Seirixori: She nods and takes Ryleigh's hand, "Okay."

[11:10 PM] DM: There's shouting and growling from ahead.

[11:11 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "Hold on," Ryleigh tells her, and they ride ahead.

[11:12 PM] DM: What are you in the cart doing?

[11:13 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: ((No, Ry said to continue on the path))

[11:13 PM] Urrak: ((we continue down the path))

[11:16 PM] DM: As you all go forward, you see the guards, one with a bloodied sword, two with bows, and one mounted with a bow, all looking at the wolves coming out of the trees on either side of the road, snarling. There are three commoners on the ground next to the cart, two of them seem to be covering a third. The horses on the other side of the cart are pawing at the ground uncomfortably, and the ox attached to the cart looks ready to run.

[11:19 PM] Gayle Silbando: ((can we see any onlookers or witnesses?))

[11:19 PM] DM: Just the guards and these three.

[11:20 PM] Ryleigh Alastair: "*Homashoc*," Ryleigh whispers in a warning tone, "If we save these people we might put a bounty on our heads."

[11:21 PM] Seirixori: "I know, I know. I have one more idea."

[11:24 PM] Seirixori: Seir curses, "Fuck I hope this works," and using her thaumaturgy to throw her voice 30ft towards the woods, she says in abyssal, "*Spook the horses and the ox to run.*"

[11:27 PM] DM: Give me an Animal Handling check.

[11:27 PM] Seirixori: ((20))

[11:29 PM] DM: Ok! The wolves start snapping at the horses' legs and the ox and they all bolt. The mounted guard falls hard to the ground and scrambles back to his feet, drawing his sword after his bow got knocked out of his hand.

[11:29 PM] DM: The ox cart goes careening past you, a wolf hot on the ox's tail.

[11:31 PM] DM: One of the guards looks up at Ryleigh and shouts, "Don't just stand there! Put that sword to use and help us deal with these wolves."

[11:31 PM] DM: And we're going to call it here.

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