6 Felmont

**5 Felmont** **-- 6 Felmont -- 7 Felmont**

**Felmont 3Y21** **- Discord logs**

## Isonsall Shelter

"[10:01 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry wakes early, per usual, even though she feels exhausted. For several minutes she lays there - waking up and watching Rukiya sleep (or so she thinks). Eventually Ry drags herself out of bed, dressing in clothes instead of her armor and still strapping Dawnbringer to her hip.

[10:10 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: She presses a kiss to Rukiya’s cheek and whispers - in case she’s awake - “I’m going to find Gescha and discuss our next move. Sleep as long as you wish... I’ll be back soon.”

[10:15 AM] DM: She mumbles something and pulls whatever covers she has up around herself more.

[10:15 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry smiles and leaves. She’ll check on Clemency and Avery before looking for Gescha.

[10:17 AM] DM: Clemency is awake, but still lying in bed, just looking at Avery who is still asleep next to her. She gives Ry a smile, but puts her finger to her lips.

[10:25 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: It takes a lot for Ry not to go to them, just to make sure she’s not dreaming, but instead, she returns Clemency smile and moves on looking for Gescha.

[1:30 PM] DM: Gescha's bent over with her hands on a table, talking with a group of people who are going to be overseeing the next steps, getting plans made. She straightens when she sees you. ""Princess. Did you find anything at the castle?""

[2:11 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “I did.” Ryleigh looks around at the others. “The Queen is alive and fine.” She approaches the table and looks down at the plans. “There’s... no help to be had from the castle. We’re on our own,” Ry says, still looking at the plans.

[2:19 PM] DM: ""I see... Well, I suppose that means that our plans continue unchanged. We'll be separating into groups- those who wish to leave, those to clear the rubble, and those who will be working within the shelter to make it livable and comfortable moving forward. We have some former Dharns who believe we may be able to even start growing food underground. Isonsall may find its future here, under the mountain.""

[2:21 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh ask one of the guards, “Would you ask the leader of men who attacked me to join us? Ask. Don’t demand. If he wishes not to come, don’t force him.”

[2:22 PM] DM: He salutes and excuses himself.

[2:29 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “We have a pot that will provide as much food as is needed. It’s not the most appetizing hot cereal but it’s filling.” Ryleigh reaches into the bag of holding and pulls out the pot of plenty, setting it on the table. She’ll explain how to use it.

[2:39 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh sighs. “Building under the mountain is the best we can do for now. The titan wasn’t the only problem we found up the mountain. There was a small army of undead that threatened us while we were up there. I don’t know if their target is the castle or Isonsall... I’m not entirely sure what they want other than revenge.”

[2:58 PM] DM: ""An undead army?"" She shakes her head. ""Thank you for the information. I'm not sure how much more we can take.""

[4:25 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “I know,” Ry says, rubbing at the back of her neck. “I know...” she repeats, this time her tone tired.

[4:40 PM] DM: She pauses for a moment then sighs. ""Thank you. This pot will definitely see its share of use. Scouts say the farmhouses outside the city were also razed. We're not sure if there were survivors.""

[6:58 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “It’s the least I can do,” Ry replies. “When I went to the castle the Queen was watching the titan’s progress. It’s moving to Croysa... I know I should stay and help with the rebuilding but I...” Ry meets Gescha’s eyes, since she knows what the others don’t. “I need to find a way to destroy it, and I can’t do that here.” She clearly looks distressed.

[7:04 PM] DM: She nods, as if she already expected that comment. ""All due respect, Princess, I've been running this town without supervision for some time. I do not need you to continue doing so.""

[7:10 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry smiles, a small chuckle escaping her lips. “You have, and you’re right. You don’t need me to rebuild or take care of our people. Regardless, I wish I could be of more assistance. I wish to be here and help. I’d love to gain the trust of the people by working alongside them... but I can’t let what happened here happen to more innocent people.”

[7:17 PM] DM: ""Of course."" After a couple minutes of discussion over plans, the dissident reappears.

[7:19 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry beckons him forward. “Gescha, this is...” she motions for the man to introduce himself.

[7:20 PM] DM: She interrupts and says, ""Thori Brook. I know him.""

[7:21 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((Can Ry tell by the way Gescha says it what she thinks of him?))

[7:44 PM] DM: She's obviously not a big fan. It sounds like he's probably been in trouble before.

[8:37 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry tries not to smile. “Thori and his friends care about Isonsall and it’s people very much. Up until now they have gone about helping in the wrong way, but I think if both parties were willing to work together... Isonsall and the people who live here would be better off.”

[8:43 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “I trust your judgement, Gescha... and I know you want what’s best for the people. However, I know a lot about making trouble and causing problems for people in positions of authority. If you don’t take people like Thori seriously... they will go to extremes to be heard - as they did the night the titan came down the mountain. It’s my wish that you both find a way to work together.”

[9:12 PM] DM: Give me a persuasion roll.

[9:13 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((17))

[9:14 PM] DM: And an insight? Cha or Wis

[9:15 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((14))

[9:15 PM] DM: Gescha seems amenable. Thori doesn't hide his eyeroll.

[9:16 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Problem Thori?” Ry asks.

[9:20 PM] DM: ""With 'making nice' with bootlickers, yeah. It's going to be more of the same. We'RE aLL iN The sAme BOat,"" he mocks. ""Sure, we're all in the same shelter, but look who has beds. Who has beds lying empty just in case you return while the rest of us sleep on the ground. Who has private rooms while the rest of us share an open space with no privacy.""

[9:23 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “That’s a fair point.” Ryleigh taps the table, leaning against it. “So what’s you’re solution to provide more beds and privacy?”

[9:27 PM] DM: He's caught off guard, and you can try an insight check to tell if it's more that he didn't think that far or he just wasn't expecting to be asked, but he stumbles over his words a little before it comes out, ""Let the rooms go to those of greatest need- families with small children, the wounded. Prioritize getting partitions and sleeping areas set up before we start busting our asses digging. People need a place to rest and recover to work hard.""

[9:28 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((9))

[9:28 PM] DM: I did say try.

[9:29 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Gescha, your thoughts?”

[9:34 PM] DM: ""The rooms and beds were meant to be for people like you,"" she says gesturing to Ry, ""me, those who financed the dig, the guards who keep everyone safe from the Fytulk."" She raises a hand to stop Thori from interrupting. ""But you have a point. It will be hard on everyone, rebuilding... and at least this will keep energies focused on that and not getting mad about sleeping.""

[9:41 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh smiles. “Then let’s make that our first priority. The people who are in the most need of private quarters should be given them - regardless of status. Thori, I’d like you to gather those people up and let them know they’ll be moved as soon as the rooms are free of their current occupants and tidied for them. Gescha, I’d like you to put a team together that can come up with ideas to make this shelter more home-like... maybe a designated kitchen, bathroom area, obviously sectioned off sleeping quarters...” Ry sort of just lists things off. “Then reconstruction should start... and I think you’ll find the people more willing than you otherwise would have.”"

"[10:46 AM] DM: Gescha sighs. ""Most of that already exists but we'll work on improvements where necessary. This shelter was originally built as an emergency location for everyone for a few days or a small number of people for a long time. We'll need to expand and make modifications as we go to accommodate everyone permanently.""

[12:53 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""I apologize, I haven't walked around the shelter to see what's here. I shouldn't have assumed."" Ryleigh looks between Gescha and Thori. ""So... do we think we can all work together?""

[12:59 PM] DM: Thori replies, ""For now. But I'm watching you."" Gescha looks like it's taking all her restraint to simply nod.

[3:37 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Just remember Thori... being a leader is difficult and hard work. It's easy to criticize and complain, but if you have nothing to offer as an alternative, then maybe you're criticism isn't as well founded as you believed."" Ryleigh tilts her head and takes a deep breath. ""Thori, You both want the same thing - what's best for the people of Isonsall. So if the people have a complaint, an issue, or problem... it's now your responsibility to help them voice it, and to create solutions - or work with Gescha to find one. Do you accept this responsibility?""

[3:59 PM] DM: Thori frowns. ""It's what I've been doing. She just needs to fuckin' listen.""

[4:31 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “You need to understand her position, and stop acting like a slighted teenager,” Ry bites back. “Being a leader means your decisions affect everyone, not just the people you personally care about. She has to decide what’s best for the most people, and that’s hard - especially when you know some people won’t benefit or will hurt because of the decision you made.” Ry takes a step towards Thori. “What were YOU doing during the evacuation? Because it wasn’t helping the people you claim to care about so much. I gave the order for the guards to knock on doors and get people to safety. It was Gescha who lit the purple flame to warn everyone of the coming danger. It was my friends who pulled bodies and people from the rubble. Where were you, Thori?” She challenges. “You’d be surprised how much Gescha listens when you’re supplying answers to problems instead of trying to take matters into your own hands.”

[4:34 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Working with us has already gotten you further than everything you’ve done working against us. Put aside your bitterness and resentment and step up - become the leader I know you are and work with Gescha to create a better place for the people of Isonsall. Because that’s what we all want.”

[4:37 PM] DM: ""You wouldn't be listening now if we hadn't done what we did then.""

[4:49 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “That’s where you’re wrong,” Ry’s face shifts to something hard. “I was just like you a few years ago. Taking matters into my own hands. Trying to overthrow the regime because I just knew things would be better if I did. Do you know where it got me?” Her lip trembles. “Standing on the executioner’s block carving pieces of flesh from my brothers body while he screamed in pain and the crowd jeered.” She holds his gaze, allowing him to see the hurt there. “I know what it is to suffer. To be misunderstood. To feel helpless and resort to violence because of it. I’m listening because I want to know what the people need because I actually care, because I am the people... and this might surprise you, but if Gescha didn’t care she wouldn’t be working tirelessly to find ways to make this shelter something more permanent.”"

"[11:30 AM] DM: You probably get the feeling eventually that he's going to have to process alone for a bit before he can let his air of superiority and bluster fade. Is there anything else of substance that needs to be discussed at this time?

[11:36 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((No, Ry just wanted to make sure there was plans in place, warn them about the possibly undead army, and include Thori - so she did want she needed to do. She can go back to the room now.))

[11:45 AM] DM: Feel free.

[11:47 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((About what time is it now?))

[11:47 AM] DM: Don't ask me that lol

[11:48 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((lol okay. I wasn’t sure how long this convo took. Ry would have gotten the minimum needed for a long rest, but she doesn’t wanna wake Rukiya and Seir until she has too.))

[11:49 AM] DM: This is all very loose in terms of time. It's enough to do what you want, within reason.

## Waking Ry's People

[11:54 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh excuses herself with a promise to Gescha to check in as soon as she can. She heads to the room she’s sharing with Rukiya and Seir, slipping inside as quietly as she can. Edging around the bed, Ry cards her hands through Seir’s hair until she starts to stir.

[12:00 PM] Seirixori: It takes her a little time but eventually there's a very groggy groan. She snuggles against Rukiya briefly before she opens her eyes and she looks briefly confused before recognition hits and she releases a soft ""Oh."" She blinks again and turns to Ryleigh. ""... Morning... Maybe?""

[12:03 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “It’s mid-morning,” Ry whispers. “I want to let you sleep but I really need to find my shield before we leave today. Even if I locate it, it’s probably buried so I was hoping you could help me with that part? If you’re feeling up to it.”

[12:07 PM] Seirixori: She hums in response, eyes closing for a second. Seir struggles to sit up. ""Uugh. I'm not as tired as I was... but even so. Of course I'll help you.""

[12:09 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Thank you,” Ry says softly.

[12:10 PM] Seirixori: Seir clumsily and tiredly pats Ryleigh's arm.

[12:13 PM] DM: Rukiya mumbles.

[12:18 PM] Seirixori: Seir grabs the covers and pulls them over Rukiya, patting her blindly. ""Sleep sleep.""

[1:37 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh will press a soft kiss to Rukiya’s cheek as Seir get ready. Once they’re both in their warm clothes, Ry will lead them out of the cavern. Using a spell to locate her shield, she’ll walk towards the place where she was attacked.

[3:01 PM] DM: It's not too difficult to find and retrieve with Seir's wildshape.

[8:07 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Looking thankful, Ry takes it and they head back to the shelter. “I’m going to go get Rukiya up... then check on Clemency and Avery, make sure they’re ready to go.” She looks caught between being happy and looking guilty.

[8:11 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks at Ryleigh for a few long moments, it's clear the pause is more about how tired she is than her trying to find the words. ""You can be happy, you know.""

[8:36 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry half smiles and shakes her head. “It came at too high of a cost for me to be happy...”

[8:38 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “...but having them with me on birthday is something I never dared to dream about. I-“ Ry’s mouth pulls into a thin line. “I never thought I’d see her again, let alone have a nephew.”

[8:51 PM] Seirixori: Again it takes her a moment to digest the words and when she does her eyes widen, ""It's your birthday,"" she looks mildly upset at herself. Her hands go to Ryleigh's arms and she holds her there, like she wants to give her a hug but she also has to something first, ""Well, we all deserve days to be happy no matter what's happening around us so... enjoy it because everything else we have to do is... Well, just... enjoy it because you'll need that to get through whatever comes next. I don't know if that makes sense. Who cares, happy. You. Allowed. Worry about the other shit tomorrow.""

[9:12 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry’s face slowly breaks into a smile. Then she presses a kiss to Seir’s forehead. “Rukiya said the same thing. I just feel a little guilty for feeling happy when-“ she gestures to all the destruction around them, then she lays a hand on Seir’s arm. “And with the hurt your probably experiencing. It just feels wrong... but, I am happy...”

[9:19 PM] Seirixori: Seir's eyes immediately tear up, but she ignores it and smiles, ""Good.""

[9:23 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Pulling Seir into a hug, Ry whispers, “It’s okay to be not okay...”

[9:36 PM] Seirixori: Seir clings to Ryleigh, she lets the few tears fall as she jokes, ""Who knew being buried under snow and losing Gunnloda would feel very similar.""

[9:50 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Homashoc,” Ry gently says. “I know it’s not the same... that it’ll never be the same... but you have Rukiya and I.” She sighs, rubbing her hand up and down Seir’s back. “We’ll find a way to get her back.”

[11:53 PM] Seirixori: ""I'm not really sure that's possible,"" she sighs. ""And I know. If you guys weren't here--"" Seir stops abruptly. Her arms tighten around Ryleigh."

"[9:37 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: She stops running her hand up and down Seir’s back, choosing instead just to hold her close. She also ignores Seir’s ‘its not possible’ comment, And quickly says, “But we are here.”

[11:52 AM] Seirixori: ""But you are."" Seir reiterates. ""Go, wake your wife and spend time with your family.""

[2:53 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Pulling back a little she fiercely says, “You’re my family too.”

[3:26 PM] Seirixori: Seir grins, like she said it knowing the reaction she'd get, ""I am. But you always give me alone time with Takara and Mielikki, and now I can give you alone time with Clemency and Avery."" She winks, ""You'll need it. You don't want to leave me alone with Urrak and Brimeia for too long. Chaos might happen.""

[3:59 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh tilts her head a little, like she wants to argue but doesn't. ""I'd like to have dinner tonight... just a small celebration once we're back in Riverrun. If you're feeling up for it. Or you don't have to be there if you need alone time... I'll have another birthday to celebrate.""

[4:34 PM] Seirixori: ""I would love to,"" there is a very very slight pause, ""celebrate with you.""

[4:50 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: A sad smile plays out on Ry’s lips. She leans in and presses her forehead to Seir’s. “You know your don’t have to ever pretend around us, don’t you? It’s okay to feel everything you’re feeling... but thank you, for putting on a brave face for my sake.”

[4:55 PM] Seirixori: ""I know."" Seir's smile mirrors Ryleigh's, ""But a lot of it is because I'm trying to not drown in it.""

[5:07 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Seir can feel Ry nod just before she pulls away. ""I'm going to go get Rukiya up, and make sure Clemency and Avery are ready to go. Are you sure you don't want to come?""

[5:11 PM] Seirixori: ""I'm sure. I think I'd like to make sure everyone who got hurt doesn't need anything and say goodbye to a couple people.""

[5:14 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Okay... I’ll come get you when everyone’s ready to go.” She turns to leave then says, “Oh, The wounded are going to be moved to the bedrooms soon, and I just...” Ry looks stressed. “It doesn’t matter. Thank you for taking care of them.”

[5:17 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods and takes Ryleigh's hand to give it a squeeze. ""Of course."" She'll watch Ryleigh leave before heading off."

## Ardabeh

"[1:17 PM] Seirixori: Seir doesn't really wait around once they step into Ardabeh. She takes the bag of stuff she stole and quickly says, ""I'll be back."" She shifts into the air wolf and flies off, heading to Murias. Once there she starts to look for Wrenn, not bothering to change back once she finds him.

[9:52 AM] DM: There are entire sections of the area that have had the crystals entirely removed, though the ground is still bare. You recall that before, most of the druids didn't even have the ability to wild shape, but now you see several ""animals"" doing the heavy work of clearing the land. It doesn't take too long to find Wrenn in conversation with some of the others, discussing how to replenish the lands.

[12:54 PM] Seirixori: Seir lands nearby, her gaze taking in the cleared out space first before it focuses on the group Wrenn is with. She doesn't interrupt, but moves closer to be in his line of sight, staying in her air wolf form. Seir waits for him to notice, more than happy to observe everything then engage.

[12:59 PM] DM: He does, of course, notice the giant wolf-shaped air creature and tilts his head as if to try to figure out who- or what- this is. He excuses himself from the conversation and approaches.

[1:06 PM] Seirixori: ""Sorry, I didn't want to interrupt,"" she says, as he approaches. ""I wished to see how things were going since I last left.""

[1:09 PM] DM: Recognition clicks and he smiles. ""They are going. I have been splitting my time between supervising here, teaching, and traveling to neighboring communities to enrich the land so they can feed themselves again. The destruction was... vast, but we will recover and bring our neighbors with us.""

[1:21 PM] Seirixori: Seir relaxes a little and smiles, not quite remembering it might look a little menacing, ""I'm glad... I wish I could help more."" She shakes her head with a sigh. ""I wanted to ask a favor. A couple of favors..."" She's quiet a moment, her gaze briefly becoming unfocused, before she shakes it off. ""My Mama-- I doubt she'll-- if you happen to see a red tiefling with four horns and hair color similar to mine, would you mind...I don't know,"" Seir sighs, now slightly frustrated. ""Maybe if you would, keep an eye out?""

[1:32 PM] DM: ""That shouldn't be hard to do.""

[1:35 PM] Seirixori: ""Thank you. Have you had a chance to stop by Omubagi?""

[1:38 PM] DM: ""I... believe so, to the north, north-west, yes?""

[1:47 PM] Seirixori: She nods, ""Yes. I-- well I guess I could send her a message.."" she shrugs, more to herself than anything. ""Maybe just the one favor then. Was there anything I could help with before I get back? I may not have mentioned that I could have technically brought us directly to our next destination, but I wished to see how things were progressing... and to see Mielikki and Findarris.""

[1:52 PM] DM: ""I think we have things well enough in hand. It is simply time that is the obstacle at this point. There is so much to be done... but it will get there and our people have nothing but time to spare.""

[1:58 PM] Seirixori: Seir laughs a little and nods, ""We will be by the tree for a little while longer if you need anything.""

## Seir and Mielikki

[2:01 PM] Seirixori: She takes off, doing a small circle of the city for her own sake and heads back to the tree. She thinks about stopping before the tree, away from her friends but an idea hits her and she heads for one of the large branches near the top of the tree.

[2:14 PM] DM: The view from up here is very different. You can see the bounty of green beneath the tree, like it has been since it first replanted itself, but the amount of blighted land that has been reclaimed has doubled, spreading from the tree itself.

[2:24 PM] Seirixori: Seir shifts back once she's nearer to the base of the branch and places a hand on the tree, taking in the sight before her. The amount of relief and joy at the sight is immense and unexpected and she breathes it in and lets it wash over her, grateful for the small bit of reprieve from the  sadness she's tried to not drown in the last couple of days.

[2:26 PM] Seirixori: She stares out at it far longer than she even realizes and finally with a heavy sigh, Seir whispers, ""......Mom?""

[2:57 PM] DM: Leaves and blooming flowers seem to appear from nowhere, carried by a breeze until they swirl into a mass that falls, disintegrating but leaving Mielikki's form standing on little more than the twigs holding leaves in the boughs as though she weighed nothing. ""Welcome home.""

[5:03 PM] Seirixori: Her small laugh at Mielikki's entrance turns into a quiet sob at the words. Seir sinks to her knees, ""I re-really don't like snow.""

[6:58 PM] DM: She chuckles. ""No, I don't think you would.""

[7:23 PM] Seirixori: Seir takes off the backpack she has and sits against the tree. ""I... I don't really...I just need-- wanted to see you. And Findarris. I missed you.""

[7:47 PM] DM: She smiles. ""Findarris doesn't like heights. You're troubled.""

[7:59 PM] Seirixori: She mumbles something about seeing him when she gets down. ""I... yes, when am I not?"" She tries to joke. Seir gives a weak shrug, ""Mama... I don't know when she'll let me see her and I-- I can't really contact her anymore because my- my wife is... gone."" She quickly follows it up, not wanting to dwell on it, ""And some giant titan thing is on its way to destroy everything in Ascus and I think the only way for some answers is to speak to the Raven Queen in the Shadowfell, also to find Takara's champion there somewhere. ...It was a fun month of snow.""

[8:07 PM] DM: She just raises her eyebrows. ""I see. Do you need anything?""

[8:21 PM] Seirixori: ""Rest,"" Seir snorts. ""And I needed... I needed to..."" She opens the bag to look through one of the books, to calm her nerves, ""I needed to see you."" She finishes in a whisper.

[8:43 PM] DM: There's no perceptible movement, before she brushes her fingers along Seir's face, from her temple to behind her ear, as if she was brushing her hair back.

[8:54 PM] Seirixori: Seir's eyes immediately close, trying to keep the tears and the pain at bay, and she leans into the touch. ""Thank you,"" she whispers.

[9:13 PM] DM: ""How long before you rest?"" Her voice is barely above a whisper and the concern held within is certainly new to Seir's ears from her.

[9:30 PM] Seirixori: It takes Seir some time before she can answer. ""Just a small one here. Then back to Riverrun. ... I'm-- I'm not entirely sure why. I've been sort of... following along lately. I don't imagine we'll stay for long. Maybe a night.""

[9:35 PM] DM: ""You will be able to find restful sleep when you do,"" she says, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

[9:40 PM] Seirixori: Seir smiles softly, ""Thank you for taking care of me."" She laughs a little as her words to Takara are repeated to Mielikki.

[9:40 PM] DM: ""I'm sorry it's come so late.""

[9:48 PM] Seirixori: ""Late is sometimes better than never."""

"[10:48 AM] DM: ""Do you wish to speak of your wife?""

[3:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir chuckles, ""Well, yeah.""

[4:01 PM] Seirixori: ""You know, when we were... I think we were running down the mountain?"" Seir's face looks almost concerned as she tries to remember. ""I... I prayed to her I guess? I'm not really sure that's how it works but it was kind of a- a mix between a hello, hope you're doing ok, and maybe a little help."" She smiles, ""there was this feeling. This-this warmth."" Seir just kind of babbles after that. A random assortment of things, a small cluster of freckles she liked to trace, the look on Gunnloda's face when she ate something new, over sharing a little too much about having fun in places considered to be holy. Seir doesn't bother to wipe away the steady stream of tears rolling down her face.

She gets really quiet after she mentions when they're both home and spending time with Stool.

[4:15 PM] DM: ""I'm happy you found someone that you love so much in your short time so far... and I'm sorry it was for such a short time. She sounds wonderful.""

[4:19 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods, finally wiping at her eyes, but she eventually gives up as the tears don't seem to stop. ""She is--was--...yes.""

[4:22 PM] DM: Mielikki reaches over and draws Seir into a hug, and before she realizes what's happened, she has a huge furry warmth pressed to her back.

[4:29 PM] Seirixori: There's a happy cry mixed in with the sad ones, her hands clutching to Mielikki while her tail does it's best to wrap around a leg behind her, ""But you don't like heights.""

[4:38 PM] DM: Findarris's deep chuckle reverberates through Seir's body. ""We are not high.""

[4:55 PM] Seirixori: Seir's brow furrows and she moves her head only far enough from Mielikki's embrace to look around.

[4:56 PM] DM: You're on the ground!

[5:04 PM] Seirixori: ""Oh."" There's relief in Seir's tone. She turns, not leaving Mielikki's embrace, and faces Findarris, a grin on her teary face, ""Hi."""

"[11:33 AM] DM: ""You make a magnificent wolf, pup.""

[11:45 AM] Seirixori: Seir lights up considerably, a very large, genuine grin appears on her face. ""It is so much fun.""

[11:46 AM] DM: His rumbling laughter rolls through her.

[12:33 PM] Seirixori: ""I even turned into one made of ice! ...helpful, but I absolutely do not recommend snow.""

[3:01 PM] DM: Findarris: ""Snow is part of nature's glory, but you've never been fond of cold.""

[8:09 PM] Seirixori: Seir scrunches her nose, ""Terrible, cold."" She laughs, ""But I did steal someone's things. Which was actually bad, not because stealing is bad, I mean it is. Sometimes. This time it wasn't, well it was, but because it meant we had to go back down the mountain before sleeping and..."" Seir goes on and just talks to them about little things.

[8:39 PM] Seirixori: Eventually she heads back to the group and finally takes the time to go through the backpack and see what it is she actually took.

[8:46 PM] DM: It takes time... but over that time (and with help if you use it) you learn that they are a Rod of Retribution, a Wand of Magic Missiles, and 3 Detect Magic scrolls."

"2:06 PM] DM: 6 Felmont 3Y21

## Dawnguard HQ, Riverrun, Vyon

Ryleigh's birthday!

[2:06 PM] DM: You all travel through a tree directly onto the property of the Guildhall where you find it to be functioning well. There's a light dusting of snow on the ground with the exception of paths where the tread of feet was enough to melt it away as people traverse from building to building. The subtle sounds of industry float through the air, but it's not overpowering, and this far from the center of town, you don't hear a lot of the bustle of civilization either. When you head into the guildhall, you find that it's warm and inviting. Fireplaces are lit, the rooms have been decorated with pinecones and fir boughs, tied with blue and white or silver ribbons. You pass several people who greet you with smiles and the occasional ""welcome home.""

Before long, Tanjura greets you. ""Welcome home, everyone. I've already asked Masrar and Leszenya to start drawing baths, and Diego will be waiting to collect your arms and armor to take it for repairs.""

[2:10 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh gives Diego her armor with a smile and a thank you. Then she turns to Tanjura and says, ""Tanjura, this is my sister, Clemency and my nephew, Avery. I'm hoping to have them stay here with us, if there's room.""

[2:15 PM] DM: ""Of course, there is."" She squats down to Avery's level. ""What's your favorite thing to eat? I'll ask Rikath to make it special for you tonight.""

[2:15 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks a little taken back at... well everything. It takes her a moment to gather her bearings and follow Ryleigh's example.

[2:16 PM] DM: Where most kids might hide behind their mom's skirts, Avery stands firm and says, ""Ice cream. With honey.""

Tanjura chuckles. ""I think we can make that happen."" She stands and addresses the group again.  ""I can show them to their rooms, if there's nothing you need from me?""

[2:17 PM] Seirixori: ""Is- is Stool downstairs?""

[2:18 PM] DM: ""They are. Dak's downstairs playing with them right now. I thought I could introduce them to little Avery here while his mom gets settled in.""

[2:20 PM] Seirixori: Seir nods, ""That... I think that might need to wait for... a little bit."" She doesn't elaborate and she doesn't really wait for a response before she heads off to find them.

[2:20 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""I'd like to help get Clemency settled,"" Ry says with smile. Then in a slightly firm voice Ryleigh say to Avery, ""You can go meet Stool, but you better be nice. Here there are rules, and you will follow them, or you will have consequences - we aren't at Grandmother's anymore.""

[2:22 PM] DM: He pouts a bit, but just says, ""Ok.""

[2:23 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: She smiles and presses a kiss to the top of his head. ""Why don't we decorate your room, then you can meet Stool, and Dak - Tanjura's youngest child.""

[2:24 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""So why don't we all freshen up and meet in the war room in an hour? To discuss what's next."" She half shouts at Seir's retreating form."

"[2:27 PM] DM: -------------

## Warroom

[2:28 PM] DM: An hour later, you're all meeting up, freshly bathed for those of you who took advantage of it.

[2:28 PM] DM: Urrak might be napping in the corner, struggling to keep one eye open.

[2:29 PM] Seirixori: Seir's sitting in one of the chairs, slowly braiding her hair... into one braid.

[2:34 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh is looking over the map of Omphalos they have. In purple ink, she puts an ""X"" on Isonsall and a circle around Croysa. She sighs then turns to the others. ""The titan was on its way to Croysa when we left Isonsall. It might have already reached it and destroyed it... which means it's next target, if its going off of distance, would be north... at Aston.""

[2:37 PM] Seirixori: ""Ugh, I'm a little annoyed I don't know how it knows where to even go.""

[2:39 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Maybe it's drawn to people, or structures, or maybe it's aimless."" Ryleigh rubs at her face. ""Tomorrow, I'd like to do some research on it at Vydea's temple.""

[2:41 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks a bit frustrated, though it isn't exactly clear if it's the situation or her hair as she fusses with it, ""Do you think they have anything on the Shadowfell?""

[2:42 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""That's how I've learned what I have.""

[2:42 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Why?"" Ry asks, with a raised eyebrow.

[2:43 PM] Seirixori: ""Oh, ...right. I knew that."" Seir looks up, slightly confused and then her eyes widen, ""Oh... wow, I haven't told you. So uh, we're going to have to go to the Shadowfell?""

[2:44 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""I think the titan needs to be our main priority."" Ry's eyes narrow a little.

[2:45 PM] Seirixori: ""That's... one reason. Do you really think you're going to find anything? Something like that... why wouldn't it have come up before?""

[2:47 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""We didn't know what was up there before,"" Ry says, clearly trying to keep the frustration out of her tone. ""And until we know we can't find the answers in Vydea's library, we don't need the help of the Raven Queen.""

[2:49 PM] Seirixori: ""...maybe, maybe not. However... and I... I suppose then it's me now asking that we go. I don't know anything about that place, but Takara's worried about Moki and I... promised I would find him.""

[2:53 PM] Brimeia: ""Never a dull moment around here, is it?"" Bri chuckles.

[2:54 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Why would you make that kind of promise knowing that that thing is out there killing people and destroying cities?!"" Ry doesn't bother to keep to frustration out of her tone this time. ""I'm sorry, but we don't have time to go looking for Moki when the titan is decimating everything in its path.""

[3:01 PM] Seirixori: Seir's jaw clenches and she lets silence settle for a few seconds before she responds. ""Because the titan wasn't the only thing I wanted to ask the Raven Queen about, not the only thing we don't have answers for. That I don't have answers for. Answers we already know can't be found because Rukiya would have already found them if there were. I can't go find the person Mielikki told me to go find because of the titan. I can't be in Ardabeh, because of this mess!"" She releases an audible breath through her nose. ""I figured we could ask her about the titan and about Gunnloda while looking for any sign of Moki."" Seir's voice cracks slightly on Gunnloda's name.

[3:04 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""It is... possible that we could find answers there. If I'm right, she once sought divinity, and we know this titan was tied to it through Gunnloda. Maybe she knows something about it. I can go look through the temple's records, but... that castle was far older than anything I've ever seen on this continent.""

[3:07 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh looks upset at Seir's words, but then her face turns expressionless as Rukiya speaks. When she finally speaks, it's even and emotionless, ""Like I said, we should check the temple before having to ask the Raven Queen for anything. Stopping the titan is our priority.""

[3:13 PM] Seirixori: ""I never said it wasn't."" Seir moves her chair back slightly, looking very ready to walk out, but she stays seated. ""But that if there's anything else we can find out about the Shadowfell while also seeing if there's anything about the titan.""

[3:16 PM] Brimeia: Bri looks a little uneasy at all the tension. ""It's ok to just look for the info right?""

[3:17 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""I wasn't going to bring it up because I don't know exactly how it works... but the Shadowfell might also help with our time problem. It's an alternate plane, and time works differently there. Sometimes whole years can pass there while only days pass here... but sometimes it works the other way too. I'd have to try to find that information again to figure out if there's a way to control it.""

[3:21 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh looks back at the map. ""I didn't say we couldn't look for information on the shadowfell while also seeing if there's anything we can find on the titan. I'm just making sure we have our priorities straight. I don't want to abandon Moki, or upset Takara - she's been... a helpful ally. But if the gods can't see the titan, then they can't help us either.""

[3:23 PM] Urrak: ""I've already been turned old and came back an' let me tell ye that wasn't fun. I dunno that messin' with time is a good move unless we've absolutely got a hold of it. "" Urrak folds and unfolds her arms. ""An' I agree with Ryleigh. That Titan could level a city with just a few steps. We have to bring it down as soon as possible. ""

[3:30 PM] Urrak: She cracks her neck and yawns ""But I don't see why we left Isonsall. Ragna knows this thing, at least enough t' summon it. Was there no way t' get information outta her? Even by...force? "" She shifts, again, clearly wanting nothing more than to lie down, ""Or a temple or somethin' nearby with old research on it? Someone made that thing... I think. So someone had to know how to stop it. ""

[3:31 PM] Seirixori: Seir's jaw hasn't really unclenched this whole time, but her tone has stayed mostly even, ""She--"" Seir stops and shakes her head. ""It's a good thing the Raven Queen isn't a god, then."" She says sarcastically under her breath.

[3:34 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Ragna wanted this,"" Ry says to Urrak, her voice still completely even. ""She wouldn't give us information on how to stop it... and if we had tried to take that information by force - it would have been a fight we would have lost. It's why I took Seirixori's blow instead of letting her hit Ragna.""

[3:37 PM] Seirixori: Seir folds her arms and looks away. It's a few seconds before she sits up abruptly, ""I- uh- there was a book I took from Heli. I haven't looked at it, partially because I didn't understand it, and partially because I... forgot.""

[3:41 PM] DM: Rukiya: ""Can I take a look?""

[3:42 PM] Seirixori: ""Yeah, of course."" Seir gets the book and gives it to Rukiya.

[3:44 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh turns to look at Seir, her face no longer expressionless, her tone softening, ""I know you're in a bad place right now, but are you forgetting to tell us all these things, or are you keeping secrets again - because I thought we were past that.""

[3:45 PM] DM: Rukiya opens it, flips through a few pages, and frowns. ""Of course it's in Jotun..."" She shuts it again. ""I'll have to ask someone to translate for us.""

[3:46 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks... surprised and a little hurt, but also understanding. Her voice is soft and quiet when she responds, ""No-I- I forgot. I-- Ryleigh, I can barely remember half of what's happened the past few days.""

[3:48 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: She nods. ""Okay,"" her tone still soft. ""I just wanted to make sure it wasn't because you're pulling away from us.""

[3:48 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""May I?"" Ry asks Rukiya for the book.

[3:48 PM] DM: Rukiya hands it to her.

[3:48 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh opens it.

[3:49 PM] Seirixori: Seir looks uncomfortable now while Ryleigh looks through the book.

[3:49 PM] Brimeia: Bri tentatively gives Seir's shoulder a gentle pat.

[3:52 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""There's a lot in here."" Ry flips a few pages. ""Diagrams."" She turns a few more. ""Arcane stuff."" After flipping through a few more pages she stops and really looks at one. Her eyes widen a little and she tilts her head. ""I'm not sure what this is, but I know its written in code.""

[3:56 PM] DM: Rukiya raises an eyebrow. ""Keeping that to yourself, were you?""

[3:58 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry looks up from the book. ""Uh... did I not mention it back at the castle on the mountain?""

[3:59 PM] DM: ""Not reading, no... do you think you can break the code?""

[4:00 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""I'm sure if I translate it we could break it.""

[4:02 PM] Urrak: ""Here's hopin'.""

[4:02 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry leans over and presses a kiss to Rukiya's cheek. ""Yes, I think I can work it out.""

[4:05 PM] DM: Rukiya glances back at Seir, then looks to Ry. ""Why don't we go take a look at the temple and see what I can find while you work on the code and Seirixori can go back to the Fytulk to see if she can make contact with the Shadar-Kai to see if there's something more she can learn about that option? Brimeia and Urrak can go with her to make sure she stays safe and out of trouble.""

[4:06 PM] DM: ""I don't think either of you two are keen on spending time in the library, anyway.""

[4:06 PM] Urrak: Urrak laughs

[4:07 PM] Urrak: ""I doubt either of those things are gonna happen.""

[4:08 PM] Urrak: ""If she'll have us, I'll go along. But we all know Seirixori prefers t' work alone.""

[4:08 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""It would make me feel better knowing that you'd have Urrak and Bri,"" Ry says to Seir.

[4:09 PM] Seirixori: Seir's surprise turns to slight annoyance and she rolls her eyes, ""I only prefer to because you guys don't like to listen.""

[4:14 PM] Urrak: ""What, when we tell ye not t' go off alone? Or when ye go an' take things without tellin' people? Yeah we don't. I dunno if ye know this, but Bri and I want ye t' come back t' Ryleigh an' Gu--Rukiya in one piece. "" She sighs, ""I'm not trying to fight ye, now. We all just need t' be in the same page and t' communicate better. I'm not free of blame fer that either.""

[4:15 PM] Urrak: ""I'm more than a pile of muscles and idiocy, and Brimeia is too. We can help if you let us.""

[4:16 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""It can all wait until tomorrow,"" Ryleigh says firmly. ""And Urrak, keep in mind that Seirixori just lost Gunnloda - she's hurting and doesn't need your criticism right now. What we all need a good nights rest and... I'd like to have dinner with my family tonight - all of my family,"" she says looking at them.

[4:20 PM] Seirixori: Seir huffs, clearly annoyed because that isn't what she meant, and she is clearly fighting to not respond.

[4:30 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh comes around the table and lays a hand on Seir's shoulder. ""Would you... like to nap before dinner or... maybe move some of your things into our room?""

[4:32 PM] Seirixori: Seir's eyes widen as she turns to look at Ryleigh, her eyes watering, ""I--I wasn't going to ask..."" She swallows thickly. ""I-- m-maybe later? I...I think maybe I'll go see Donny and-and then...maybe just nap in-in your room if that's okay.""

[4:33 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ""Of course it's okay,"" Ry says. ""I'll come get you up before dinner...""

[4:35 PM] DM: If there's nothing else, I suppose we can stop there. We can have whatever side conversations need to be held over the next week. I'm guessing that will include some rolls for research at the temple and a trip back to the forest to try to talk to some elves. Would anyone like to stick around to do some birthday rp or shall it be offscreen?

[4:36 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: ((I'm okay with it being offscreen))

[4:37 PM] Seirixori: ((I'm good for whatever~))

[4:39 PM] Brimeia: ((I'm down for some birthday rp))

[4:43 PM] Urrak: ((lol I'm gonna nap so off screen. Urrak caught a deer for dinner lol.))

## Ry's Birthday

[5:31 PM] DM: Clemency and Tanjura, while the group was in the warroom, spread the word and set up a small birthday dinner in Ry's honor, with ice cream and honey for the new little one. Clemency also let her and the cooks know of the new dietary restrictions for the two Alisdairs.

[5:34 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: As promised, Ryleigh goes to wake Seir, and find Rukiya fast asleep too. After rousing them from their nap, Ryleigh walks to the dining hall hand in hand with Rukiya and upon seeing the set up, her mouth drops open in surprise.

[6:06 PM] Seirixori: Seir places her hand on Ryleigh's back, ""Happy birthday.""

[6:14 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ryleigh looks a little embarrassed, and she scratches at the back of her neck. ""This is... it's perfect, thank you,"" she says to everyone, a shine in her eyes.

"[9:41 AM] DM: Clemency approaches and wraps Ry in a tight hug.

[10:40 AM] Brimeia: ""Happy birthday!"" Bri gives Ryleigh a thumbs up.

[10:42 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Was this your idea?” Ry whispers, her arms holding onto Clemency.

[10:42 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: She gives Bri a smile over Clemency’s shoulder.

[10:44 AM] DM: Clemency whispers back, ""You deserve happiness, homashoc."" She presses a kiss to Ry's forehead before stepping back.

[11:09 AM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry wipes at the tears on her cheeks. She smiles, wholeheartedly. “You know... it’s not a party without music.” Ryleigh grins, elbowing Seir a little. “Does anyone else play any instruments?” Ry asks as she moves further into the room.

[11:24 AM] Seirixori: Seir looks a little surprised as that was the last thing she was expecting.

[12:49 PM] Urrak: Urrak walks in, a small wrapped bundle in one hand and the lute in the other. ""Not well... But if I learned a few chords I'm sure  Seirixori could lead a song or two."" She places the bundle in front of Ryleigh. ""It's rough, didn't have much time, but I hope ye at least find it amusin'. "" When Ryleigh opens it, it's a small wood carving of a horse, stained black and with a white star on it's head. ""It's Adventure! Kinda,"" she smiles sheepishly and sits down, the lute in her lap.

[12:53 PM] Urrak: ""Ah, an' happy birth day,"" she says as if it's been years since she'd heard the term.

[12:56 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: “Thanks Urrak,” Ry says, smiling at the wooden horse.

[12:59 PM] Seirixori: ""I did watch Malica a couple of times, so I guess I could, uh, try and help you. I'd mostly know if it sounded right not really the fingering.""

[1:02 PM] DM: Tanjura says, ""Khalre's taken to more scholarly pursuits lately, but they were learning the lute. They might be able to offer some advice as well."" She looks around a bit with a frown. ""If I knew where they'd gotten off to, anyway.""

[1:02 PM] DM: The half-orc boy in the corner thumb wrestling with Avery shrugs when she looks at him.

[1:03 PM] Urrak: ""I can help ye look for them,"" Urrak stands. Probably holed up with a book somewhere quiet. "" She smiles at the two boys.

[1:07 PM] DM: She smiles. ""Don't worry yourself. I'm sure they're fine.""

[1:09 PM] Urrak: ""I'll have t' ask them fer pointers once they come outta hidin',"" Urrak winks and turns back to Seirixori. ""Play somethin' and I'll try t' figure it out as we go."" Urrak smiles, ""Sorry in advance, Ry.""

[1:19 PM] Seirixori: Seir frowns, though it's to do with her trying to think of something simple and light to play. After a few moments she nods, ""Okay."" She takes her flute, that's she's totally had on her this whole time, and starts to play something light. She adds her own thing to it to cut down on the repetitiveness of it, though she isn't really sure anyone would notice since it's something her Mama used to sing to her.

[1:21 PM] Urrak: After a few hard plinks and plonks, Urrak settles into an easy three chord progression, taking it slow at times to make sure she's hitting the right notes. ""Might need to give this t' someone who's hands aren't so... Meaty. "" She chuckles and shakes her head, but feels a little twinge of satisfaction and pride as she plays.

[4:33 PM] Ryleigh Alisdair: Ry smiles at the song Seir chooses. “Start it again, homashoc.” And when she does, Ry starts singing along. Her accent coming through, but not as much as when she’s speaking infernal."

5 Felmont -- 6 Felmont -- 7 Felmont

Felmont 3Y21 - Discord logs