Session 50

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This session was played on January 31, 2018. The main session lasted seven hours, seventeen minutes.

## Trivia

* Spells cast: 6
* Most common spell: 5, Thaumaturgy
* Most spells cast: 6, Seirixori

## Transcript

*[*4:15 PM*]* DM*:* DAY 18 MIRDAN 22 JAQMONT 3Y20, Bellbury.

It's morning in the Cask. The Cask itself is a little more... alive than usual. Over the last two weeks, the people inside had slowly become fewer and fewer until your party were the only ones left. Now? There's a woman in the kitchen and another cleaning up out in the front area. There are a couple people having breakfast quietly and a pair of men sharing stories of where they'd been the last two weeks, but even though there's *life* in the Cask... it's not exactly lively. There's a quiet air of grief and mourning that hangs over everything.

*[*4:19 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos wakes up early for once, or at least, earlier than Rav and Bri. He sits up in bed and quietly studies them for a moment, before kissing Rav on the cheek. "Good morning , love..."(edited)

*[*4:20 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak sits at a table near the bar. She watches the crowd of people intently, half-listening to several quiet conversations with her chin resting on her interwoven fingers.(edited)

*[*4:23 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh walks downstairs, dressed in her black armor with Dawnbringer gleaming at her side. She takes a look around the Cask, struck by the mood in the tavern, she sighs and heads over to where Urrak is sitting.

*[*4:25 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav stirs awake and opens her eyes just as Nolanos is leaving. She also gets up and ready for the day and makes her way down to sit at the bar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*[*4:46 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav stands up and makes her way to the bickering duo and places her hand on Urrak's shoulder. "Hey hey hey now, you say that like Urrak wouldn't enjoy that. If we want to make fun of Ryleigh, we should do so on the way to Riverrun," she winks.

*[*4:47 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir, wanting to draw the attention off her friend, and also being generally impatient, shrugs and uses thaumaturgy to throw open the door and windows...loudly.(edited)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*[*5:13 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "When should we head to Riverrun? Do we have any other business left here in bellbury?"

*[*5:14 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh rolls her eyes at the comment. "We should head out as soon as possible, but we should probably stop by the mansion - not just to pick up Seir but to notify Eloise of our plans and to check that Bellbury doesn't need our assistance anymore."

*[*5:15 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Seems like a solid plan."

*[*5:17 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "It feels unsettling leaving when there are so many things to fix," Rav looks off to the side remembering the potentially orphaned elven child from yesterday.

*[*5:18 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "I know, but maybe we can come up with solutions to certain things a a little better if we have some space from here?"(edited)

*[*5:19 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh rises from the table, "I'm going to head to the mansion, did you lot want to join me or meet out by the fountain?" She starts heading to the door.(edited)

*[*5:21 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "I think I'll wait by the fountain."

*[*5:23 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "I would like to join you...if that's okay. I know Baroness must be busy so I'll stay out of her way but I want to know if there's anything we can do to help." Rav follows Ryleigh

*[*5:23 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh nods to Nolanos and walks out of the cask.

*[*5:25 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos nods back, and stays for a moment, before heading outside as well

*[*5:27 PM*]* DM*:* Outside there are some people starting to gather in the square. There are three people in blue and silver, two in clothing and one in scale armor with the Moonstream crest on his chest. They seem to be talking to villagers who have concerns, taking notes on their issues and complaints while the armored man keeps the peace.

*[*5:47 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Not sure what else he can do, Nolanos decides to stop by the forge one more time before heading out.

*[*5:47 PM*]* DM*:* There's actually a dwarf in there, going through the shop portion.

*[*5:48 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Oh, uh hello there. How are you today?"

*[*5:49 PM*]* DM*:* "Better 'n most, I reckon. Can I help ye?"

*[*5:51 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Sorry it's just strange seeing someone else in here for a change. I just wanted to see this place one more time before I left..."(edited)

*[*5:52 PM*]* DM*:* "You the one that's kept the fire burning then?"

*[*5:52 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Uh, yes. Yes I did. I'm Nolanos, by the way," he says, holding out his hand.

*[*5:54 PM*]* DM*:* He wipes his hand on his pants out of habit and shakes yours. "Hrusk. Thanks fer not wreckin' the place."

*[*5:56 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* He chuckles, "I tried not to leave things a mess, so I'm glad that worked out okay."

*[*5:58 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Is there anything I can help with, maybe?"

*[*6:00 PM*]* DM*:* "Don't think so... Gristla and Gwenta seem to have gone missing so I'm the only smithy left and I'm one of the lucky ones who didn't lose their wife, so I reckon it'll work out for me."

*[*6:04 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "That's good. Family is important... well um. Thanks for letting me bother you, I guess. It was a pleasure meeting you. "

*[*6:05 PM*]* DM*:* "You too."

*[*6:06 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* He nods and leaves, returning to the fountain.

## Mansion

*[*4:57 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir makes her way to the mansion, knocking on the door once she's in front of it, her tail nearly tripping her as she waits.

*[*4:58 PM*]* DM*:* A human woman answers the door, dressed in fine blue and silver clothes. She sees you and kind of looks around to see if there's anyone with you. "Just you? The Baroness thought more of you would show up."

*[*5:01 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Oh uh, they're... they're eating breakfast. And I'd like to not..." Seir sighs, dropping her head into her hands briefly before looking up again, "May I speak with her? Does she not want... do I need to go get the others?" Seir quietly groans, if this start is any indication she's going to have a worse time trying to talk to Eloise.

*[*5:03 PM*]* DM*:* The woman steps back, allowing you to enter.

*[*5:04 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir enters slowly, "Thank you."

*[*5:07 PM*]* DM*:* She then opens the door to the inner room and says, "Sixerry for the Baroness."

Eloise is sitting at her desk, taking notes and looking through paperwork. She waves Seir in, and as she enters, the woman closes the door behind her.

*[*5:10 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir looks behind her as the woman shuts the door, wondering what the fuck the she introduced her as. "G..good morning, Baroness. I know it's... I know it's not even been a day but I was wondering if you had an idea of what to do? If there's anything to be done, with Bellbury?"

*[*5:12 PM*]* DM*:* She finishes whatever she was writing and puts her pen down as she looks up from her papers. "I apologize for Dafyn. She has had some trouble with the pronunciation of your name."

*[*5:14 PM*]* DM*:* "Has the rest of your party already gone? I know you were asking about staying."

*[*5:18 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "No, they're still here. They're uh, eating right now... I was just... It's uh... It's easier be hea-- to ask you things when they aren't all here." she shrugs, "We're going to Riverrun when they're done, some of them actually want to go home. Or at least that's the plan. They might still come here." She pauses and shuffles, "I also wanted to see if there was somewhere else I could leave Stool. I'm sure they don't really want them down in the cask basement and I ... yeah. Just...somewhere else." Her tail tugs at her leg, as she stops herself from saying even more than she needs.

*[*5:20 PM*]* DM*:* "Are you planning to leave them here? I can arrange for," she checks her papers for a moment, "Dynas to look after them at the Cask... for as long as she stays at least."

*[*5:22 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Just for now. I wanted to make sure they were safe, I would like to come back, if you plan on still staying here. There was also... the other thing I was wondering about. Because I'd like to continue helping with that...um with your wife."

*[*5:25 PM*]* DM*:* She inhales sharply like she's surprised, or like she'd forgotten in all the chaos of people returning that there was a problem. "I... appreciate that. It will be difficult to keep that quiet and having someone who can help who is already involved would be preferable to letting more people in."

*[*5:27 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir nods, "I just want to make sure she comes back to you two." She pauses, thinking, "Is there somewhere you would go, if you had to move on from here? I don't know how long it will take us and I'd like to make sure I can find you all again."

*[*5:30 PM*]* DM*:* "Cae and I will be here as long as we can be. Past when Bellbury is officially dead, if it comes to that. We'll need to make sure everyone else is taken care of. If that day comes, we'll likely return to my family's castle in Riverrun."

*[*5:31 PM*]* DM*:* Dafyn again greets the rest of the party at the door and introduces you as "Miss Ryleigh of Asten, Urrak of D'Akshi, and Ravaphine for the Baroness."

*[*5:32 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Okay thank you for... um..." She watches Ryleigh and Rav enter, "Um... thanks."

*[*5:34 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Seirixori, don't stop on our accord." Ryleigh walks over to stand next to her, but she still give a slight bow to Eloise, "Baroness."(edited)

*[*5:34 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs, "I was kind of... mostly done anyway. The rest can wait."

*[*5:35 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Mornin' Lady Eloise." Urrak dips her head a bit. "An' no problem, Seirixori. We're not on as much of a...time crunch these days anyway."

*[*5:36 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Baroness Eloise. Seirixori. Good morning," Rav says while slightly nodding to both.(edited)

*[*5:37 PM*]* DM*:* Eloise stands and walks around her desk to speak to the group of you. "I was hoping more of you would come. Not to imply anything against Seirixori here, just that I thought I might need to make changes to my letter."

*[*5:39 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Would be a right shame t' waste anymore ink, Baroness." Urrak smiles a little nervously, hoping the conversation they walked in on wasn't too heavy.

*[*5:40 PM*]* DM*:* “As I was saying, I am unsure if my town will recover from this… incident. I’ve been up all night looking at the list of those who returned and comparing it to those who have not and… it’s not promising. Even just the orchard itself, we had forty-two permanent workers and only ten survived. We already used seasonal labor during the harvest, but ten just…” she sighs.

Up close, you can see that her eyes are tired, there’s barely disguised evidence of tears, and in this moment, she lets her professional facade drop just enough that you can see she looks defeated. “Of forty farmers, we have seven left. I’m not sure half the crops will even survive to be harvested in Takaramont, even if we had the hands to do so, not to mention the livestock that have disappeared or died in the last two weeks. A dozen buildings from farms to the butcher to the temple… have nobody left.”

She drops her head. “I suppose we should be grateful that we even had five children survive… gods know it was hard enough for the adults.” She looks back up, tears starting to build up in her eyes. “It’s not easy to stand here with my family and look at those who have lost everything, but it is a burden I will gladly bear because the alternate was almost certainly a reality without your intervention, and I’m not sure I could have borne that.”

She walks over to her desk and picks up an envelope that bears her seal. “I find myself asking for one final favor from you. I know at least some of you will be eager to return to the homes you were torn from, so I assume Riverrun is your next destination. Before you go, if you could deliver this to the duchess, I would appreciate it. It holds an accounting of what happened, plans, requests, but I also mentioned talking to my sister about you. There’s a letter of recognition inside that will explain what you have done for my family, and by extension, hers. It is my hope that she will be able to help you find your feet in Riverrun should you decide to stay.”

*[*5:46 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh takes the letter. "Baroness..." Ryleigh forces herself to be casual, "Eloise. We appreciate this." She waves the letter before putting it into her bag. "I...I'm truly sorry for what's happened here. It may take time but I believe that this isn't the end for Bellbury. You're a good person and one of the few leaders that actually cares about the people they rule over - please don't let Poni's mistake haunt you, it isn't a reflection of your leadership."(edited)

*[*5:48 PM*]* DM*:* "I should have intervened sooner. It was only a matter of time. But thank you."

*[*5:49 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh's mouth pulls into a thin line, like she wants to say more but can't, so she bows slightly.

*[*5:50 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "No," Seir spits out, "Qarius should have done more then just make Poni someone else's problem."

*[*5:51 PM*]* DM*:* "Also true, but he's suffered his own losses for his mistake. We both share some portion of the burden. Where is Mr. Ningel now?"

*[*5:53 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "After the completion of the arch he...was no longer there. No response."

*[*5:54 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak holds her hands behind her back, one hand grabbing the other wrist. She looks at Rav "No response..."

*[*5:54 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Good." Seir growls.

*[*5:55 PM*]* DM*:* Eloise frowns but nods. "And his... well, the rod? I should probably keep that here for the college to look at when they return."

*[*5:57 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Yes, please. He has caused enough damage, and I hope the college will be able to dispose of it accordingly." Rav takes poni out of her bag and places all the pieces onto Eloise's desk.

*[*5:58 PM*]* DM*:* "Thank you, for everything. Was there anything else you needed to discuss?"

*[*5:59 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "H-how is Lady Misha?" Urrak blurts out. She looks quickly to the ground, embarrassed.

*[*6:00 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir sighs and nods her head to Eloise, walking out of the room.

*[*6:01 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh quickly follows Seir.

*[*6:01 PM*]* DM*:* "Recovering well. She has nightmares about the place you found her, but she's been helping quite a bit with the people of Bellbury."

*[*6:04 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Glad t' hear it. I'm not sure why but...I was worried about 'er. With everythin' that's happened...I was afraid she got lost in th' shuffle." Urrak looks behind her as Ryleigh leaves, a concerned look on her face. She sighs and shakes her head "I think I may've fucked up, Baroness." she chuckles a bit grimly "Seir's still real upset by th' whole thing. She feels guilty as hell fer all the problems she caused. She's downright afraid of Lady Cae."(edited)

*[*6:07 PM*]* DM*:* "She can't be *too* afraid of her if she's offering to escort her to the keep next month. I hope she'll recover from it all as well. One mistake shouldn't ruin a person's life."

*[*6:09 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Not t' overstep, El--Baroness Moonstream, but I think she'd like t' hear Cae say that to her." she clears her throat awkwardly "Seir wants t' help, and she'll do anythin' no matter what but...the girl holds on t' things. For quite some time..."(edited)

*[*6:11 PM*]* DM*:* "Unfortunately, I'm afraid there are more pressing matters at hand. Lady Cae is not available at the moment to provide reassurances, but Seirixori and I have spoken about the issue."

*[*6:15 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "I understand, yer word should be th' end of it. I'm just...I suppose I'm jus' lettin' ye know how some folk without much care of politics think about things. I'm sure it seems right trivial, an' it probably is but" she sighs and looks away "I suppose I'm just tryin' to make her feel less...alone. Less messed up." she runs a hand through her hair "I-I should go an' re-join 'em. I've already put my foot in my mouth enough fer th' day."

*[*6:17 PM*]* DM*:* "Maybe more than Cae's word, she needs a good friend to help her through it. Safe journeys."

*[*6:17 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Thank you for your help, Baroness. We hope to see you again, soon." Rav bows before making her way out to the fountain.

*[*6:17 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak nods and follows Rav

## Fountain

*[*6:07 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir walks up to the fountain, giving a hesitant wave to Nolanos and sits, waiting for everyone else.

*[*6:08 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Hey Seir. Back so soon?"

*[*6:09 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "There wasn't much to talk about really. I just needed to make sure Stool would still be okay here."

*[*6:10 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda comes out of the temple and takes Seir's hand when she gets close. "Everything settled, love?"

*[*6:10 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh is trailing not far behind Seir, she approaches the others but chooses not to sit or comment.

*[*6:10 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "That's a good thing to make sure of."

*[*6:13 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir grins and pulls Gunnloda into her, "Yes." She says to both Nolanos and Gunnloda. "Ryleigh, uh...is everything...good? With...earlier?"

*[*6:16 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh shifts from one foot to the other, "I overreacted to Urrak earlier - she just, brought something up that hadn't thought about how to address yet. Are you ok? I was hoping we had given you enough time with Baroness alone."

*[*6:18 PM*]* DM*:* Everyone gathers at the fountain.

*[*6:18 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Sorry t' keep ye all waitin'" Urrak jogs to the fountain behind Ravaphine

*[*6:18 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I'm fine, I forgot to ask about something, but it can wait. Can I see the bag of holding, though? I kind of... have too much stuff."

*[*6:19 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Of course" Ryleigh gives Seir the bag.

*[*6:18 PM*]* DM*:* Malica shows up with a bag on her back, the fancy lute that Urrak had found in the golem lab over one shoulder.

*[*6:20 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak smiles when she sees the lute "Ah, glad t' see y' fancy that. These clumsy fingers couldn't do all that much with it." she places a hand on Malica's arm, brushing her thumb across her skin gently

*[*6:21 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir puts the trident back in the bag, she starts to put the bow in but after a few moments of staring at it, she sighs and slings it and the arrows over her shoulder and onto her back. "Thanks," she mutters, handing the bag back to Ryleigh.

*[*6:23 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh reaches out and squeezes Seir's shoulder, catching the hesitation and sigh, but doesn't address it in front of the others. She turns to everyone and says, "We ready? Let's head out."

*[*6:23 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Here's hopin' there's less spears comin' out th' woods this time..."

*[*6:24 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh chuckles and mimics Urrak, "Aye!" then frowns and shakes her head, "I should leave the joking to the rest of you."(edited)

*[*6:26 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos laughs. "Don't worry about it. That was... something to remember."

*[*6:26 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "That ye should." Urrak elbows her playfully and leans in close "*Is...is that how I really sound?* "(edited)

*[*6:27 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh laughs a little, "that's how I hear you?"

*[*6:27 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir stands and tugs Gunnloda with her, "Leaving now." Seir says as she heads off towards the road to Riverrun.

*[*6:27 PM*]* DM*:* So you head out, all of your group plus Gunnloda and Malica. Safika doesn't join you.

*[*7:00 PM*]* DM*:* It's a lengthy walk and for the most part, you stretch out along the road, walking in pairs or triples or even alone, having quiet discussions or being silent. Malica plays some music for a while on and off.

*[*7:00 PM*]* DM*:* A couple hours out of town, though, there’s a flurry of movement at the roadside before a man runs out of the brush, a sword drawn. He looks like he’s fleeing, not attacking, but before he gets more than three steps, an arrow streaks out of the treeline and catches him in the neck, killing him.

*[*7:01 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Well, better than spears comin' at us."

*[*7:01 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh runs over to where the man lays, drawing Dawnbringer and readying her shield.(edited)

*[*7:01 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos reflexively brings up his thunder cannon, ready to shoot whatever killed the man.

*[*7:04 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* With a muted thump a skinny elf in deer skin trousers and leather armor jumps out of tree just ahead. Her pants and boots are streaked with mud, and she's wearing a coonskin cap over her medium length black hair.

*[*7:05 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* She runs to the dead man and snarls "AY! that one's mine."

*[*7:05 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Who the hell are you?" Nolanos's aim doesn't waver, though he does appreciate the hat.(edited)

*[*7:06 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* With a glare up at the human standing over her kill, she reaches out and tears the arrow out of his neck

*[*7:06 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Hello, mud person, there a reason you killed him?"

*[*7:07 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh glares back asking the stranger, "what did he do that constituted death?"(edited)

*[*7:07 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Yeah, to save your sorry asses." she looks at all the weapons you all carry, "or maybe some sorrier ones that could've come instead."

*[*7:07 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia frowns at the elf, not sure what to make of the sudden intruder.

*[*7:08 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "We can take care of ourselves, thanks."

*[*7:08 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "You're welcome, by the way." She wipes the blood off the arrow on her pants and puts in back in her handmade and very old leather quiver.

*[*7:08 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak stands near the back of the group with Malica, taking in the whole scene.

*[*7:09 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy crouches down and flips the dead guy over so she can start going through his pockets

*[*7:09 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Asshole, laying in wait with his friends off the path"

*[*7:10 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps up the stranger, "his friends?"

*[*7:11 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Wouldn't be outta place fer there t' be bandits an' th like out 'ere."

*[*7:10 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir tilts her head, and hums, then addresses the new person, "Hey, want some more arrows?"

*[*7:12 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks up at the tiefling with suspicion. "...yes." She looks back at the human. "Yeah, his fuckin' friends." She gestures to the woods behind her. "Bout ten feet into the trees. Already got all the good stuff off 'em."(edited)

*[*7:13 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Who...who are you? Are they dangerous?"

*[*7:13 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs off the arrows from her back and tosses them over. "I don't use them, so..."

*[*7:14 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy snatches the arrows up greedily and puts them away. "I'm Chessy, I live here. And no, not anymore."

*[*7:14 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh sheathes Dawnbringer and walks away from the newcomer to stand by Urrak and Malica.

*[*7:15 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "You live in the forest? Or Riverrun?"

*[*7:16 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "The forest. Seen your work before, of course. Left a big fuckin' mess of the road last time you were here."

*[*7:16 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Hah, forest friends!" Seir snickers.

*[*7:18 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Looks like Seir's makin' friends" Urrak says to Ryleigh, though her gaze is still fixed on the newcomer "So...Y'trust her?"

*[*7:18 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy collects the dead man's money pouch and empties it into the dirt.

*[*7:18 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* She pokes through the coins intently, ignoring all of you.

*[*7:19 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* ((insight?))

*[*7:19 PM*]* DM*:* If you want to.

*[*7:19 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* ((15))

*[*7:20 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh scoffs, "of course not, we don't know anything about her - other than she killed a man she *claims* was going to ambush us."

*[*7:20 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "I dunno... she seems alright...?" Nolanos lowers the thunder cannon slightly, but doesn't put it away. This girl is... strange, to say the least.(edited)

*[*7:21 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy grabs up all the coin, along with a significant amount of dirt, and stuffs it in her own coin pouch. She stands quickly and grabs the dead man by his booted feet and starts to drag him off the road.

*[*7:21 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs and follows her.

*[*7:21 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Least she's efficient...wait where is Seir goin'..."(edited)

*[*7:22 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Uhh.. we're still heading to Riverrun, right?" Brimeia asks, looking off in the direction Seirixori and the odd elf went

*[*7:22 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks up at the tiefling. "Don't bother to help," she says with a grunt and a heave. "I've got it."

*[*7:22 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* With a heavy thump, she leaves the man at the side of the road.

*[*7:22 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir laughs, "Did you *want* help?"

*[*7:23 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy doesn't bother responding. She heads over to a tree nearby and climbs up with ease, disappearing into the thick foliage briefly. With a quiet *snick* a well packed handmade backpack with a bedroll and canteen tied on falls out of the tree.(edited)

*[*7:24 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Alright, well...this has been real... *fun* but uh, we're gonna keep headin' t' Riverrun, tree person." Urrak re-adjusts her pack as she finishes(edited)

*[*7:24 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Yeah... yeah, we're definitely still going to Riverrun."

*[*7:25 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Seirixori, come on, if the stranger wants to join us - she can. But we need to keep moving" She starts walking along the road again.

*[*7:25 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Want to tag along?" She asks Chessy, not responding to the others.

*[*7:25 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda heads over to where Seir and Chessy are.

*[*7:27 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh stops walking and waits when she realizes Seir isn't coming yet.

*[*7:27 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks up at the tiefling, still suspicious. "Why?"

*[*7:29 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs, taking Gunnloda's hand, "Why not? We're going to go quite a few places, if you're interested."

*[*7:33 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks around at the group, her eyes linger on the half-orc for a hard moment before moving on to the armored human. She stands up and pulls her pack onto her back. "Where you headed now?"

*[*7:34 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Riverrun."

*[*7:34 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Riverrun for the time being. Then... Well that hasn't been decided yet but teleporting will probably happen."

*[*7:35 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda kind of looks at Seir like 'what are you doing' but doesn't say anything.

*[*7:35 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy is confused entirely by the word "teleporting" as it doesn't sound like a word in any language she knows. She ignores it. "Haven't been to a town for awhile. I guess I could...tag along."

*[*7:36 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Sure, bring the forest gremlin, who cares, let's get goin'! We're sittin' ducks out 'ere."(edited)

*[*7:37 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy sniffs in offence but says nothing. She brings two fingers to her mouth and gives a short sharp whistle.

*[*7:37 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* There's a rustle in the trees in response.

*[*7:37 PM*]* DM*:* A raccoon jumps down out of the tree, scurries out of the woods and jumps up on Chessy's shoulder.(edited)

*[*7:38 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir, after waving her hand and making a puff of wind blow in Urrak's face, grins and asks Chessy, "Can I pet it?"

*[*7:38 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav smiles very excitedly. "Oh my goodness!"

*[*7:40 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy scratches behind the raccoon behind the ear. "Sure. No one else has ever done it before."(edited)

*[*7:40 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Do they have a name?"

*[*7:40 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Dipper."

*[*7:41 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh sighs frustratedly.

*[*7:41 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir reaches out slowly and just kind of pauses to make sure its also okay with the raccoon.

*[*7:41 PM*]* DM*:* Dipper sniffs her fingers and allows it.

*[*7:42 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir makes an excited noise in the back of her throat and pets Dipper.

*[*7:42 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Ok th' rats cute, I'll admit it. We ready or what?"

*[*7:44 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh can't help but smile at Seirixori's excitement.

*[*7:44 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda chuckles. "Come on, then. We can discuss things on the way."

*[*7:45 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "They really like you, Seir! Reminds me of those dinosaurs."

*[*7:46 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Yes, before someone murders me with their eyes." Seir skips away.

*[*7:46 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps up Chessy after Seir skips away and lowers her voice, "You may have won *her* over, but I'll end you if you hurt anyone here - understand?"(edited)

*[*7:47 PM*]* DM*:* Dipper settles into a defensive position on Chessy's shoulder, baring his teeth.(edited)

*[*7:47 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav anime slides out of the way of this confrontation.

*[*7:50 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy sneers. "I'm not the one steppin' to someone I just met and that helped me out." She shrugs her shoulders back but keeps her voice down. "Keep your orc friend on a leash and we won't have no problems."(edited)

*[*7:53 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "You *claimed* you helped us, but all we saw was a man fleeing and your arrow ending his attempt." Ryleigh's eyes don't leave Chessy, "they mean a lot to me and if you endanger them, I'll hunt you down in this life and the next." Ryleigh turns away and walks to the head of the group.

*[*7:54 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy totally waits until your back is turned to roll her eyes.

*[*7:57 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak catches up to Ryleigh and claps a hand on her shoulder "I swear, Ry. Ye could scare th' patch right off Gruumsh's eye."

*[*7:57 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Are you being sarcastic? because I can't tell." Ryleigh questions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*[*8:50 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* Elowyn shrugs a little. "I deserved that. Anyway, I scouted a head a little."

*[*8:50 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh raises an eyebrow at Elowyn, her voice back to its commanding nature, "did you see anything of importance?"

*[*8:51 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "No. squirrels, mostly, but I'm not keen on hunting so I left them be. No ambushes, either, if that's more important than where your lunch may come from."

*[*8:53 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Thanks. I guess..."

*[*8:54 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh looks at him then bluntly says, "Thank you, but we're talking - could you..." she points a thumb back to the others.

*[*8:56 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* Without a word, he holds up his hands, hooks his thumbs through his bag, and drifts to the middle of the pack, to not be around any particular person.

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

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

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

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

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

## Chessy

*[*8:03 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "How long have you been friends with Dipper?" Seir asks Chessy, staying close so she can continue to pet him.

*[*8:04 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy shrugs. "Couple years. He was a baby."

*[*8:09 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda, the red haired dwarf in chainmail, leans around Seir to address Chessy. "You live in the forest, dear? I've heard it's a dangerous place. Lots of creatures who might not take kindly to you."

*[*8:10 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Yep."

*[*8:11 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav walks a few paces on the other side of Chessy, mostly catching Dipper in her periphery and just listening to bits and pieces of conversation happening.

*[*8:11 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia walks with Rav, not sure how to react to the whole scenario.

*[*8:12 PM*]* DM*:* She laughs and squeezes Seir's hand. "I'm sure you two will get along famously."

*[*8:13 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir nods and continues petting Dipper, "Always lived in a forest?" she asks, kind of distracted still by the raccoon.

*[*8:14 PM*]* DM*:* Dipper's enjoying the attention.

*[*8:14 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Yep."

*[*8:16 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav begins to peel an orange. "Does dipper like fruit?"

*[*8:17 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "Dipper will eat anything."

*[*8:18 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia looks like she's trying to stifle a laugh.

*[*8:18 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Neat." Seir pats Dipper one last time before stepping away and giving Chessy her space back.

*[*8:19 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy nods at you in acknowledgement.

*[*8:19 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav pushes the orange slices apart and hands a slice to Dipper. She silently offers the other half to Seir.

*[*8:19 PM*]* DM*:* Dipper takes it and does his little raccoon finger thing and eats it happily.

*[*8:20 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir looks confused for a moment but takes the fruit and eats it, "Thanks." She says quietly.

*[*8:23 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "You hear what happened to Bellbury?" Rav asks Chessy, while feeding the rest of the orange to Dipper.(edited)

*[*8:24 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks around, confused about who you're talking to for a moment. "No."

*[*8:28 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Some nutty magic man, tried to make some portal thing and it blew up and disappeared most of the town."

*[*8:28 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "It went away for a while there."

*[*8:31 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy huffs. "It's been quieter around the forest lately, fewer people bumbling through. guess that explains it."

*[*8:33 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "The name is Rav by the way," she says while reaching her hand out. "We come from all over."

*[*8:35 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks at your hand for a long moment before reluctantly offering her own dirty hand in return. one short shake is all you get before she snatches her hand back.

*[*8:36 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* "Brimeia," she says simply.

*[*8:37 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy nods at you.

*[*8:37 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* " I'm Nolanos," he says, also offering his hand.

*[*8:42 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy looks at your hand and then at the weapon on your back. "What's that?" she asks, jerking her chin towards it.

*[*8:48 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "It's a thunder cannon, made it myself," he says proudly. "I call it Wanheda."

*[*8:50 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir opens her mouth to say something, but decides against it, instead she slows just a bit to walk behind the rest of them.(edited)

*[*8:52 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia drops back a bit to match pace with Seir for a moment. "You alright?"

*[*8:54 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir looks confused, "I'm fine?"

*[*8:56 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia smiles. "Ok, just checking. You seemed kinda off for a bit before. Glad to see you made a new friend. Even if it's a kinda odd friend." She chuckles.

*[*8:57 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* "I can hear you."

*[*8:57 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs, and then snickers at Chessy's words.

*[*8:59 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy watches the new elf approach and keeps a wary eye on him when he settles around the middle of the group.

*[*8:59 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia shrugs at the elf's response. "We're all kind of odd."

*[*9:00 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Elowyn? What are you doing here? Its good to see you."

*[*9:00 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "If you'd rather talk in peace, I can drop further back." he gestures. "I got off to a rocky start last night and I'd rather not step on any more toes."

*[*9:01 PM*]* Kyris - Brimeia*:* Brimeia frowns when she sees the elf looking ahead and follows her gaze. *Wasn't that that elf that was arguing with the group last time?* she thinks when she spots the other elf.

*[*9:05 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "You're fine, rough starts happen. "

*[*9:06 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Welcome back, Eloywn." Rav nods in his direction

## Riverrun

*[*9:09 PM*]* DM*:* It's several hours after you left Bellbury when you reach the outskirts of Riverrun. It's late in the afternoon, but being summer the sun's not quite setting yet. The road draws nearer to the waters of the Muyar River and the farms come first on both sides of the river, then buildings along the north.

*[*9:12 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Did you need anyone to come with you to drop off that letter? Do... uh do we all need to go, I mean." Seri asks Ryleigh.(edited)

*[*9:12 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "I don't *need* anyone to come with me, but I think you all *should* come with me. Duchess Katarina may want all of us there if Eloise mentioned our group."(edited)

*[*9:14 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Aye, let's make a real entrance. Bellbury's rag tag bunch o' heroes."

*[*9:14 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Because we don't already make an entrance by appearance alone?"

*[*9:15 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "We're a real...rainbow of a group fer sure."(edited)

*[*9:16 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir sighs at Ryleigh's comment and pouts, "I guess." Then she whispers, "I wanted churros."

*[*9:16 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda chuckles. "Afterwards, love."

*[*9:17 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Ooooh churros...."

*[*9:18 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "Sorry, did I hear you say churros?" Elowyn leans in to listen. "I've heard of them, and their incredible taste, but I have yet to see any."

*[*9:20 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "They're the best." Seir says to Elowyn as she follows Ryleigh.

*[*9:18 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles at Seir, "I promise there will be time for churros, but duty first. Alright?"

*[*9:19 PM*]* Ami-Chessy*:* Chessy's shoulders are riding up around her ears as her eyes dart around to look at the encroaching buildings rising up above her. She pulls Dipper down off her shoulder and holds him to her front securely, lest he run off. She says nothing, and follows along with the group.

*[*9:20 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "This way everyone." Ryleigh calls to the group and leads them towards the castle.(edited)

*[*9:21 PM*]* DM*:* You all travel down the wide road that the road from Bellbury turns into, past the city walls, past the turn-off you took before to get to the inn you stayed in. A little while later, Ryleigh turns you south and over a large drawbridge towards a large castle.

*[*9:22 PM*]* DM*:* The castle sits between the two rivers, the Muyar and the Blukress, and sits fortified behind its own walls. There are visible guards sporting the blue and silver tabards of the Moonstreams on patrol and on the walls.

*[*9:23 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Well... this is certainly... uh... *fancy*."

*[*9:24 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Ye can say that again...High hells." Urrak pauses to take in the whole scene(edited)

*[*9:26 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh turns in front of the group to stop their progress, "Duchess Katarina isn't Eloise so please, don't call her anything other than Duchess or M'lady unless she prompts it. Proper behavior from everyone, ok?"

*[*9:26 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Will do, Dad," Rav mumbles under her breath(edited)

*[*9:27 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir gives a small two fingered salute, "Whatever you say, oh fearless leader." Seir teases lightly.

*[*9:27 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "We'll be on our best behavior" Urrak can't help but smirk when she looks over to Malica.

*[*9:28 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh just groans at their responses and mumbles, "children!" as she turns to walk up the castle steps.

*[*9:28 PM*]* DM*:* Chessy stands back, off the side of the road. "I'll wait here."

*[*9:29 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir gives one last pet to Dipper before heading after Ryleigh, "We'll be back!"

*[*9:30 PM*]* DM*:* The gate through the walls is open, but the guards do stop you at the top of the steps. The half-elf woman speaks. "State your business."(edited)

*[*9:31 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh pulls the letter from inside her bag showing it as she says, "We'd like to request an audience with Duchess Katarina. We bring news from the Baroness of Bellbury about the situation there."

*[*9:33 PM*]* DM*:* She takes a closer look at the envelope, then nods. She opens the door and leads you inside.

*[*9:35 PM*]* DM*:* The entryway of the castle is stone with blue and silver tapestries. You're met by another woman, this one human in a deep blue, very fine but modest dress. The guard says "News from the Baroness of Bellbury," then leaves. The human woman leads you further into the castle to the throne room where she asks you to wait.

*[*9:35 PM*]* DM*:* There are two guards stationed on either side of the throne and its two accompanying chairs, but otherwise the room is empty of people.

*[*9:36 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Well, at least no one murdered my name."

*[*9:37 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh laughs into her hand, trying to school her features.

*[*9:37 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak whistles in amazement "*Faaaan-cy*. I could get used t' livin' like this..."(edited)

*[*9:38 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "It gets unpleasantly cold in the winter," Elowyn says quietly.

*[*9:40 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Riverrun used to be the capital of Vyon, that's why it's so large and the castle so extravagant." Ryleigh supplies while keeping her eyes forward.

*[*9:41 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "I appreciate th' history lesson, but I'm more concerned with thinkin' about how that sconce is worth more than th' lot of us."

*[*9:41 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav just looks around, admiring the *fancy* architecture

*[*9:43 PM*]* DM*:* It's probably a good fifteen minutes of waiting before the door at the other end of the room opens. A half-elven woman in a fine navy blue gown, with pale skin and silvery-blonde hair piled atop her head in a mixture of braids and ringlets, steps forward and takes a seat on the throne. She raises her hand for you all to approach with the letter.

*[*9:44 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh approaches, handing over the letter, then taking a step back and giving her a slight bow.

*[*9:45 PM*]* DM*:* She pops the seal and takes her time reading through the small stack of papers, letting you all wait for her to finish.

*[*9:46 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* It takes every ounce of strength Urrak has to not try and fill the silence. She fiddles with fingers behind her back.

*[*9:48 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir amuses herself by making Ryleigh's hair flow in the wind.

*[*9:49 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh is stock-still, her eyes are forward, and she's trying very hard but can't help the small smile on her face at Seir's spell.(edited)

*[*9:50 PM*]* DM*:* She finishes and pats the papers back into a tidy stack. "Rohesia?"

The human woman who led you into the room steps forward. "Yes, my lady?"

"That mercenary group that went dark. Their building is still empty, yes?"

"Yes, my lady. The Dancing Swords."

"Very well. The Baroness of Bellbury thinks your group is worthy of reward and needs lodging. There happens to be an empty mercenary barracks in the Sword Ward. Rohesia will settle the details with you."

*[*9:52 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir mouths the words *Sword Ward*, barely holding back a snicker.

*[*9:52 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh bows slightly, "Thank you Duchess." Ryleigh walks back the way they came with Rohesia.(edited)

*[*9:52 PM*]* DM*:* The duchess stands and leaves the room without further comment.

*[*9:53 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I like Eloise a lot more." Seir *whispers* as she follows Ryleigh.

*[*9:53 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "That went...well?" she looks to the others to confirm as she follows

*[*9:53 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh smiles over her shoulder at Seir and whispers back, "I told you she wasn't like Eloise."

*[*9:54 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "Did you not get paid for this adventure of yours?" Elowyn asks. He jogs to the front of the group to make himself an obstacle on the way back out.

*[*9:54 PM*]* DM*:* Rohesia approaches. "Please wait here for one moment."

*[*9:55 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh rolls her eyes, "they're getting paid now - with lodging in the largest city in Vyon."

*[*9:56 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Yes, sure, no problem. We'll wait--Is it warm in here?" Urrak claps a hand over her mouth to shut herself up.

*[*9:56 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "No, no, no, that's not payment, that's being brushed aside and given cots that don't belong to you."(edited)

*[*9:56 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir rolls her eyes and makes small puffs of air in Urrak's face.

*[*9:56 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Bless ye, Seir." she wipes her brow with her sleeve(edited)

*[*9:57 PM*]* DM*:* Rohesia walks out of the room and returns shortly afterwards with a paper that she hands to Ryleigh. "The terms. Deliver it tomorrow to the Guildmaster listed. Your first month is accounted for. The maintenance cost is two hundred gold per month afterwards. The rest of the details are on the paper."

*[*9:58 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Huh... well that's... uh... convenient."

*[*9:59 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh takes it, "thank you. We'll see ourselves out from here."

*[*9:59 PM*]* DM*:* Rohesia gives a little bow and gestures towards the massive front doors.

*[*9:59 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "I'd suggest you use your coin to pay for an inn." Elowyn says as Rohesia walks away.

*[*10:00 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Is there somethin' ye'd like t' tell us, elf?"

*[*10:00 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* As they're leaving Ryleigh addresses Elowyn, "Look Elowyn, there wasn't a lot the Baroness could offer us. Or did you forget that more than half of her people were killed? She'll be lucky if the entire town isn't relocated. This is the best she could do to reward us - even when a reward wasn't necessary."(edited)

*[*10:00 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "How many scars do you keep secret, Orc."

*[*10:01 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "I don't. I wear 'em proudly." she steps into his space "Y've no say in our affairs. Right now, we're toleratin' ye. Don't push it."

*[*10:01 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh steps between them and growls out, "*Not here*."(edited)

*[*10:01 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Yeah, yeah, let's argue elsewhere, where is this place, because I would like to go get churros with Gunnloda... and then not get lost on the way back."

*[*10:01 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* he pushes back, "That's my company. And you may break me, orc, but on the tusks of every one of your ancestors I will make you pay for it."

*[*10:02 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "You come with me, boy" she grabs him by the collar and ushers him out with the rest of the group

*[*10:02 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* He twists in her grip, draws a short dagger and puts it flush to her throat.

*[*10:02 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "Those cots belong to my precious dead. Find an inn tonight."

*[*10:03 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Aaaand we're back to this."

*[*10:05 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Th' dead don't need sleep, elf. Put yer blade down." she grips his collar tighter

*[*10:06 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "I won't spit on the kindness of the duchess or the generosity of the Baroness. But you will not disturb those beds tonight. I will remove what belonged to them. Tomorrow you can honor the Baroness's kindness. But not this night. i Need this night."

*[*10:07 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "You want t' talk? Blade. Down." she starts to lift him a bit

*[*10:08 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "I put the blade down, you can still break me in half with bare hands," he grins and it's desperate. "i'm not so fool as to think you'd just settle for idle chat."

*[*10:08 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* There is, kind of suddenly, a blade made of fire in Elowyn's face, "Put it down and back up."

*[*10:08 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "Who were they?" Rav asks, genuinely concerned.

*[*10:09 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh grips Urrak's arm and says, "release him Urrak...please."

*[*10:09 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I really don't feel like being angry today, so please, don't let it come to that." She says, her silver eyes changing to black.

*[*10:10 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak looks at Ryleigh for a long while. "Fine." she drops him

*[*10:10 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* He lands on his feet and immediately backs up out of both the reach of the orc, and of Seirixori. Hesitantly, he sheaths his dagger.

*[*10:11 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh in turn glares at Elowyn, "now leave, before I change my mind and let them both tear you apart."(edited)

*[*10:11 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "You will give me the day." he said. "There's plenty of inns that'll give you warmth and good food and strong ale."

*[*10:13 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "I. Said. Leave." Ryleigh's voice is forceful and comes out like snarl. "I'll get them lodging. But I won't say it again." She draws Dawnbringer, "*go*."(edited)

*[*10:14 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir grins, her eyes having not changed back, but the blade is gone, "Bye, see you tomorrow."

*[*10:14 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* He stands very still, and grins unpleasantly, "You got screwed, by the way. Even a cut-rate bonded company makes more gold than you all were just handed, combined. Don't drink the water here." he walks away.

*[*10:15 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "So, churros anyone?" Seir's eyes are back to normal and she's smiling.

*[*10:16 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh doesn't sheath Dawnbringer until Elowyn is out of sight, then she says to the party, "do you remember where the inn was - the one I took you to last time?"

*[*10:17 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "....Alright then," Nolanos says looking off where Elowyn left, concerned. "Yeah, churros sound good."

*[*10:19 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Aye, I do." She takes a few deep breaths like she's trying to calm down. "That stupid, fuckin' elf...I-I'll meet ye at th' inn." she heads off towards it

*[*10:19 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "Urrak, it's north of here, in the temple ward - don't get lost!" Ryleigh calls after her.

*[*10:20 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Does Urrak not like Churros? Missing out again."(edited)

*[*10:20 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Temple ward?"

*[*10:22 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "You can come hang out with us, Malica. There is a churro stand here that Nolanos and Seir love."

*[*10:22 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "They are some mighty fine churros."

*[*10:22 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "You could bring some to Urrak. She didn't have any last time."

*[*10:23 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh sighs, watching Urrak walk away. But she says to Nolanos, "Yes, Riverrun is broken up into sections that we call 'wards' - each one is called something different. We're currently in the Castle ward."(edited)

*[*10:24 PM*]* DM*:* Malica watches Urrak go, torn, but decides to stick with the others. "Churros?"

*[*10:25 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Oh, so they're like neighborhoods, then. Cool. I think I might explore that later, after churros of course."

*[*10:26 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* "They're much larger than neighborhoods." Ryleigh frowns slightly.

*[*10:26 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "I mean... you know what I mean.... uh..." he clears his throat.

*[*10:27 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Churros! Let's do it."

*[*10:26 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Churros!" Seir says excitedly, swinging Gunnloda's hand. "They're great and we're going to go get some." Seir starts walking, but then stops as she gets a few feet away, "Wheeen someone who knows where they're going heads that way." She looks at Ryleigh.

*[*10:28 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh has worry etched on her face, "this way...we aren't far from the Riverfront." She leads the others across the bridge and to the left, it's where all the artisan people and food stands were.(edited)

*[*10:30 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir, kind of recognizing where they are now, immediately heads towards the cart with the churros, "Thanks Ryleigh!" She throws over her shoulder.

*[*10:31 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda laughs as she has to break into a slight trot to keep up with Seir. "Easy, love."

*[*10:32 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Sorry," she blushes.

*[*10:33 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Ryleigh gives everyone a small smile before saying, "I'm going to the inn to arrange your stay and then I'll meet you there in the morning. You guys have fun and don't eat so many churros you're sick tomorrow!"

*[*10:34 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "I make no promises," Nolanos jokes.

*[*10:34 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I will totally do that!" Seir says back, waving.

*[*10:34 PM*]* Nicole - Ryleigh*:* Again, Ryleigh just rolls her eyes as she walk away.

*[*10:41 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "I still can't get over how beautiful Riverrun is, especially at night. C'mon, let's go find that churro stand!"

*[*10:41 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "It really is gorgeous..."

*[*10:42 PM*]* DM*:* For those of you who didn't see it last time, the Riverfront is an area within the city walls, in the Temple District. It sits a couple feet above the waterline and is lit with torches and full of people from couples and throuples to small groups of people enjoying the nightlife. There's entertainers of all kinds from music to art and lots of food stands that range from the normal to the exotic. It's a *very* romantic sort of place if you're into that sort of thing.

*[*10:43 PM*]* DM*:* Most of the tall ships are further east, but there are some smaller craft on the waters here, fewer than normal because shipping from Bellbury's dead.

*[*10:45 PM*]* DM*:* You find the churro stand, a silver a piece, and a place to sit.

*[*10:46 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav buys ten churros for the group and starts to pass them out to everyone, but making sure she gives extra to seir and nolanos.(edited)

*[*10:46 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Thanks love," Nolanos smiles. "You know me so well."

*[*10:48 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir just shoves the churros back into Rav's hand, buying 20 of them. Giving 5 to Gunnloda, 5 to Malica, and keeps the other 10. "You guys can have those to yourself." She says through one she's already eaten 3/4's of.(edited)

*[*10:52 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav looks like she's about to cry but she holds it together. She hands all of them but one to Nolanos. "Guess she didn't want any of mine," Rav pouts while biting into a churro.

*[*10:52 PM*]* DM*:* Malica takes them hesitantly, Gunnloda with a laugh.

*[*10:53 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos rubs comforting circles on Rav's back. "It's ok, love."

*[*10:54 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir looks at Rav strangely and shrugs, "I just figured we could all have more, that's all." She says, already into the second one.

*[*11:04 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos just shrugs, his mouth full of churro bites.(edited)

*[*11:08 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* After devouring a third churro, and shoving the rest into her bag, Seir stands and holds her hand out to Gunnloda, "See you guys in the morning. Hope you like the churros, Malica!" She heads off once Gunnloda's ready towards a place that's just farther away from them and a little secluded near the water.(edited)

*[*11:09 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "You can save the extras for Urrak too. I'm sure she would love some." Rav picks another churro and raises it for Malica to clink with hers.

*[*11:10 PM*]* DM*:* Malica smiles. "Thank you. I've never had these before. Where are they from?"

*[*11:10 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* Rav turns to Nolanos.

*[*11:14 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* Nolanos looks at Rav, not expecting the sudden attention and swallows the cheekful of churro in his mouth. "They're from Ardabeh," he says, eyes a little watery from swallowing too fast.(edited)

*[*11:15 PM*]* DM*:* "I'm-- I'm sorry, would you like me to go? I can give you some privacy, time together."

*[*11:16 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "No, you're fine, honestly. Sorry."

*[*11:17 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Unless you *want* to go, in which case, I won't stop you because you're your own person and, uh. Yeah."

*[*11:17 PM*]* DM*:* "Don't apologize, please. I just don't want to overstay my welcome is all... I'm not... I know I'm not really part of the group. I just didn't think she wanted me to follow this time."

*[*11:17 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "You are more than welcome to stay! Please stay, it's a night off, unless you needed to head back to Urrak. We never got to hang out with you very much since we were always in a different country at some points."

*[*11:18 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Yeah, what Rav said!" Nolanos smiles.

*[*11:18 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "Please don't feel like you need to leave."

*[*11:20 PM*]* DM*:* "Thank you. I um... I know how much everyone liked Cyan and I'm sorry I haven't really been the same since. Or... around, I guess. Nervous, mostly, I think."

*[*11:24 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "You don't have anything to worry about, or be nervous about. We're still the same group of folks," Rav shrugs while offering a smile. "And we just want you to feel comfortable enough to be yourself around us. I'm glad you love music though, your playing was lovely earlier."

*[*11:24 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "That's perfectly valid. But just so you know, you don't have to be so nervous around us."

*[*11:26 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles softly. "If only I had a choice. Well, more of one than I do anyway. I-- shouldn't go into it here though."

*[*11:27 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "That... that makes sense actually."

*[*11:29 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "I hope you join us for more adventures in the future because we like having you around! But in the mean time, should we all head back to the inn? We've had a long day."

*[*11:30 PM*]* DM*:* "That's probably a good idea. Urrak knows where it is, right?"

*[*11:31 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "And maybe tomorrow, we can stop by the temple of Vydea? It would be interesting to see what that would be like."

*[*11:32 PM*]* Gay - Ravaphine*:* "We should...probably go find Urrak. She was upset when she left, and we want her to get back safely."

*[*11:32 PM*]* Alex - Nolanos*:* "This is true."

## Devil's Food

*[*11:10 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir deflates the second they're alone, "That was exhausting."

*[*11:11 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda smiles. "What was, love? I doubt you're talking about the walk."

*[*11:16 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I *could* be." She grins for a moment but then shakes her head, pulling Gunnloda to her so she can hug her. "Just... pretending that... everything was okay today."

*[*11:17 PM*]* DM*:* "Do you want to talk about it?"

*[*11:20 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* She's quiet for a moment, "Not yet." Seir closes her eyes and kind of breathes in Gunnloda, relaxing as she gets comfort from just being around her, "Hey, you were in Takara's temple this morning, didn't really expect to see you go in there. Not that... you can't um..." she groans.

*[*11:24 PM*]* DM*:* "Wondering why? I've always looked at being a cleric like being part of a guild... it was professional curiosity to see if any of the acolytes returned. I wanted to let them know how things had gone in their absence and maybe ask a question or two, but there was nobody... and no answers to my prayers, but that's... expected now."(edited)

*[*11:30 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Oh... that makes sense. The first part. I'm... not uh... I... don't know if I've ever prayed to them...now that I think about it but... Well except that one time. No wait, I yelled at Mielikki. Praying did not happen except when-- ok anyway..." she shakes her head. "I'm sorry, that even if they aren't really gods, that they don't answer you, like they answer other people sometimes."

*[*11:32 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles a little. "It's all right, love... for a long time I wondered if people just pretended to hear their gods speak to them. If it was just some hallucination or if they were lying to gain some sort of social currency."

*[*11:34 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir shrugs, "I'm sure that happens somewhere, to be honest."

*[*11:36 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "Oh, I uh, kind of offered to take Cae back to that keep the next full moon, um and probably the ones after that."

*[*11:36 PM*]* DM*:* She smiles and takes both Seir's hands in hers. "Planning to stick around for a while then?"

*[*11:38 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "I'd like to, yes. I wouldn't mind staying back in Bellbury, for... well a few reasons. But apparently we now have this place to stay, here? I just don't know how to get Stool here without any issues. It's a long way and it's safer for them at night but I don't think it would be for us..."

*[*11:39 PM*]* DM*:* "I'm sure we can figure something out."

*[*11:42 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir nods, tracing a finger over the ring on Gunnloda's hand, "Yeah." She's quiet again, her head tilting to the side, "What do dwarves do? When they marry?"

*[*11:47 PM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda's cheeks turn a little pink, but she speaks clearly. "You mean the ceremony or in general?"(edited)

*[*11:48 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir hums, "Mm a little bit of both. The ceremony more so." She leans in and kisses Gunnloda's cheek.

*[*11:51 PM*]* DM*:* "Well, we don't actually use rings. That's more of a human and halfling thing. And... it depends. Most dwarves would have a small party, a shared drink, and a trinket crafted together to decorate the home they share. My family is a little different..."

*[*11:54 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "...because of the *fancy*?" She whispers, almost like she's trying to keep it a secret.

*[*11:55 PM*]* DM*:* She nods a little. "Because of our... station, it becomes an event. Food and drinks for a week, sometimes more. With other dwarves, one asks the other and arrangements are made, but with us, it starts when a Frostbeard offers their crest to someone." She finishes by running her finger down the cord that holds the crest around Seir's neck.

*[*11:59 PM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* "That is... uh," Seir's grinning, her cheeks red, "Well, I could definitely do without the flashiness of how that sounds..." She leans in again, cupping Gunnloda's cheeks as she kisses her. "And how it ends?" she whispers

*[*12:05 AM*]* DM*:* "Something crafted together, according to their skill, that stands in the home as a symbol of the marriage. The beauty and strength of an item is supposed to be indicative of the beauty and strength of their love." She chuckles a little. "Stonecarvers are always sought after. Then, well... the fun stuff behind closed doors that most other cultures have."

*[*12:17 AM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir snorts and starts laughing, "Ah yes, closed doors. Those would have been nice growing up." After she's done snickering, she continues, "Well, I could probably shape some stone, *without* being a stonecarver, uh eventually. Lucky you." She winks. "If that were to be something you wanted. Otherwise... well, um," she starts fumbling with her words, more than usual and she just kind of stops, her face red after not being able to say what she wants.

*[*12:27 AM*]* DM*:* "Seirixori..." She takes one hand and puts it to Seir's cheek before leaning in close and saying in a soft voice, "Whether we craft something or exchange rings or tie our hands together or whatever forest people in Ardabeh do... it doesn't matter to me. All that matters is you, and when that day comes, whatever we do will mean everything."

*[*12:41 AM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir blushes, tears in her eyes, "Well, um..." she laughs, "I think uh, technically, if we followed druid rituals, we kind of already would be married. But, I wouldn't mind making it like... a thing." She shakes her head, "I love you, Gunnloda, and I want to be...I guess I would kind of like everyone else to know what I... what I already feel. Does that... would that be okay? I think I just really want to call you my wife, um sooner rather than later." She blushes, not really meaning to say it but, it's what she's been thinking so why in the hells not.(edited)

*[*12:50 AM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda smiles so wide that when she leans to try to kiss Seir, she can't quite get her lips to cooperate, but she she pulls back and looks at her with tears in her own eyes. "Whatever you want, love. Whenever you want. Big party at a temple, ceremony in Ardabeh, or Ryleigh saying a blessing at dinner tomorrow night... anything. I love you." She pulls Seir in for a much better kiss the second time.

*[*12:57 AM*]* Felicia - Seirixori*:* Seir laughs into it, "I think Ryleigh would actually really love to do that. De...definitely tomorrow though," She says, distracted, having only barely pulled away from Gunnloda. "We should, uh, probably go back... I um, well, this town is definitely not empty and I might get us in trouble if we stay out here."

*[*1:00 AM*]* DM*:* Gunnloda laughs too and steals one more kiss before Seir's too tall. "Let's go then."

## Elowyn and Urrak

*[*10:27 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak walks through the city, a quick thumb angrily wiping a tear from her face. She heads for the inn, but gets a bit mixed up in trying to navigate. She sees the people shrink away from her, but continues on, her head down

*[*10:29 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* Elowyn hears her coming. He was inside the main room of the barracks. it was almost nothing like he'd remembered it. That's not quite accurate, though; the walls were the same, so was the furniture. But the swords Dalgren hung on the far wall? Or the trophy Steph hung on the pillar near the stairs, the painted emblem on the door for the Dancing Swords. All of it was gone. Even the scent of them was gone. He was lost in thought when he heard her coming. He looked out the open door, up the street, and saw the orc. He sighed. "I didn't know orcs favored ambush tactics." he didn't say it cruelly. "Did they pay you to finish the job? Or is this a pro-bono expedition."

*[*10:32 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Great Gruumsh, yer the last fuckin' mug I need t' see right now!" she stops and looks over to him "Jus' kindly go fuck yerself, ok?" she keeps walking down the street(edited)

*[*10:33 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "What's the world look like from up on top of that high horse?" He walks after her.

*[*10:34 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Excuse me?" She stops suddenly and turns to him. "What the fuck is your problem, elf?"

*[*10:36 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "My problem is," He takes a deep breath. "You think you're so fuckin' righteous. You got your fancy letter from the Baroness and you save a town and you come back with a band that loves you and squares up for you and you think that you are so gods-damned better than me and you don't even have a patch, not even a flag," his voice breaks a little and starts to pace. This isn't intimidating, he's just in pain and he's pacing. "Look, take the place. Nothing's left anyway. They took our flag."

*[*10:45 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "Jus' who do ye think yer talkin' to? You think I'm some kinda hero? Like we're all some band o' knights in shinin' armor? Here t' save th' day? Step the fuck back, kid. Y've no idea where I come from. Ye asked about scars? Here." she undoes her right bracer and roughly lifts up her sleeve. Her arm is covered in long, deep scars, some crossing each other like jagged "x"s. There are several deep indentations in her forearm in a half-circle. "Y'think I needed some kind o' patch t' earn these? Some kind'a *flag*? Life ain't all hoorah's and maiden songs. Friends, *lovers*, family. That's who ye should fight fer. Not a fuckin' flag." she pulls her sleeve down and re-attaches her studded leather bracer "I don't give two shits about yer fuckin' barracks. I just want a place where I can be sure Mal's safe. Where I know I can find her. Where I don't have t' worry about folks givin' her any shit. Everythin' else? That's jus' extra."

*[*10:47 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "The flag was us," he snaps. "We all chipped in on it because we were together longer than any of us had been apart. Because we were whole, hurts that we thought we'd carry to the grave were healed because that camaraderie, because we were friends and it was a family. Dahl and Gretta were going to retire, she was already pregnant, Steph and me were going halves on a crib we'd commissioned based on a shield that bore our imprint. That was my family that got burned to the ground out in those woods! That flag would've been the last thing I had to remember them by!"

*[*10:54 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* Urrak looks at him, eyes glassy. She bites her bottom lip and looks up, trying to keep the tears in. She takes a deep breath and places a hand on her hip and buries her face in the other, shaking her head. "I'm sorry." she says after a few tense moments. "I'm sorry that happened to ye."

*[*10:56 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "So am I." he stops pacing and doesn't look at her. "I couldn't save them. Any of them. I was worse than useless in the ambush. I don't know how i survived. I wish I were an orc. Maybe I could've saved them. or at least died in the fray so I'd be with them in the dust."

*[*11:00 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* She walks over to him and places a cautious hand on his shoulder, stopping his pacing. "Ye can't carry th' weight of their corpses on yer shoulders, you'll fall apart under th' pressure. " she lets out a sharp breath through her nose. "No. It's better that ye lived. If ye died wit th' rest o' them, who'd be there t' tell their stories? Sing their songs?(edited)

*[*11:02 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* He flinches, but doesn't pull away. After a moment he relaxes and wipes at his face. "You sound like you speak from experience."

*[*11:02 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "If you do," he glances briefly at her. "i am sorry."

*[*11:06 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "I've lost a lot of folk. Both friend and family. I don't like death, I don't aim fer it. But I'm an orc, we live, we fight, we die. It's in our blood. Survivor's guilt is somethin' I know a lot about, friend. It hurts like nothin' else on this earth. Y'just have to keep tellin' yerself it ain't yer fault." she pats his shoulder lightly and pulls away. "Ye keep gettin' off on the worst foot...but I think we have that in common with one another." she offers a small smile. "Buy ye a pint?"

*[*11:06 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "Aye," he says slowly. "And i can apologize to your family, too."

*[*11:08 PM*]* Kelsey - Urrak*:* "They might take a bit more time. Most of 'em don't have th' soldier mentality ye and I have. We know like-minded folk when we see 'em. But we'll worry about all that later, eh? Let's get sloshed and talk about our dead like they was still standin'."

*[*11:08 PM*]* Jonathan - Elowyn*:* "Now that's a battle plan."

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