Roen

Yes, there were a few players playing Ala Mhigan Resistance, many were alts, Gharen is one of the mains involved in that plot. Roen is affiliated with them, but not technically Resistance. I say "were" because due to story line development (Garleans hunting them and having some success, RIP Aylard and Ruva), many have gone into hiding for awhile. I know Brynhilde Wulf is also an ex-(maybe no longer ex)Resistance player as well. She has helped out Gharen and other Resistance members in the past. Erik Mynhier also played an Immortal Flame who had ties with the Resistance also. Were you interested in a plot with the Ala Mhigan Resistance?

I will throw my lot in here this time. I have both good and bad characters that I can weave into the story, whichever is needed.

GAAAAAH. I completely SPACED on a family function today for lunch. I will try my very best to be back by 3pm.

Those *are* quite lovely!

Oops! I forgot to sign up. I have another commitment at 4pm PST, but I can be there for an hour!

“You look a bit better than you did yesterday.” Jenlyns looked up from the stack of parchment that never seemed to diminish, his eyes going to the man who was standing at the entry. Jameson Taeros was leaning on the archway with his arms crossed, looking every bit the finely dressed noble he preferred to be these days. His impeccably tailored white doublet and fitted pants seemed to glimmer even in the soft afternoon light that filtered through the windows, his look completed with a brilliant gold chocobo feathered hat and polished white dress shoes. Always preferring the fineries. “Good to see you too, James.” “You need to leave the Hustings Strip and get more sun, Jenly.” The leader of the Sultansworns furrowed his blonde brows at the nickname that seemed to rear its puerile head at the oddest times. He set his quill down onto the inkwell and folded his hands atop the pile of papers. “You only call me that when you have bad news or you want something from me. Which is it, James?” Jameson pushed himself off the wall and approached the desk, tossing a large envelope in front of him. “A little bit of both.” Jenlyns arched an eyebrow as he suspiciously eyed the envelope. “What is this?” He gave the man he had known since childhood a questioning look, before taking up the parcel and opening it to study the contents. “Evidence, my friend. One that I sincerely did not want to bring to you. It pertains to three of your Sultansworns, conspiring to hide a ceruleum theft, cause of the explosion and the ensuing fire at the Nanawa Mines, and not apprehending those responsible for it.” Jameson was now standing across the desk from him, his arms crossed. Jenlyns’s eyes narrowed as he spread the contents of the envelope onto the desk, to give them a proper study. What he saw began to draw his brows into a deep frown. “Where did you get this?” “From a month-long investigation spearheaded by my employers.” The silk of the doublet rustled quietly as Jameson leaned on the desk, his fingers splayed onto the carved maple surface. “Their patience had grown thin with the lack of results from the original inquiry.” “Your employers.” Jenlyns leaned back on his chair with undue ceremony, shooting the noble an incredulous look. “Surely you do not expect me to take any evidence that they present seriously, James.” Jameson held up both his gloved hands in acquiescence. “But in your position, you cannot ignore them either! Look over the evidence yourself. Yes, they may have got the investigation rolling, but it was carried out by the officers of the Immortal Flame. Commander Swift saw to that.” He curled a sly grin. “Impartiality and all.” Jenlyns frowned and leaned forward again, eyes scanning the documents. “Mcbeef? Kiryuu? Deneith?” He covered his eyes with his hand, as if that would make this go away. “You had your suspicions about Deneith’s true dedication from the start. And Mcbeef… she’s always been a black sheep, yes? She and Kiryuu are as thick as thieves.” Jameson clucked his tongue with a shake of his head, as if regretting having to repeat things that Jenlyns had told him in confidence. “Mcbeef swore them both in. Of course they would be loyal to her.” When the Sultansworn Captain just gave him a baleful glare, Jameson answered with a look of pity. “Two witnesses came forth about the cover-up. And the core that was returned to the plant, the one that was vouched for by Kiryuu? It was not the one that went missing. The engineers have looked it over to verify it. There is another one missing. One that seemed to have found its way to a Castrum.” Jameson leaned against the desk, meeting Jenlyn’s eyes at level. “There is more. The core was initially stolen by the Ala Mhigan Resistance, and they were let go. Even after your Sworns fought them at the Mines, they were just … forgotten about.” He waved vaguely into the air between them. “Because Mcbeef favored her apprentice’s loyalties over that for the Sultana.” Jenlyns could feel the anger rising within him, suspicion tugging at the edge of his thoughts. “How come you are bringing me this information, James? Why not Commander Swift?” Despite their unwavering friendship for the past many cycles, Jenlyns could never forget the different course their paths had taken. Where as he himself had sided with the Royalists and the Sultana and trained to become a Sultansworn, his friend threw his lot in with the Monetarists. But they had always kept their friendship despite this division in loyalty, for both found common ground in that they looked to serve the greater good of Ul’Dah. Jenlyns was suddenly questioning whether his friend still held to that same conviction. Jameson met his gaze with a steady resolve of his own. “I only want the truth discovered, Jenly. That is why I am here.” He lowered his eyes, a gloved finger coming to press down upon a single parchment. “Because this case was closed by Sergeant Melkire, and he is one of Swift’s favored officers. I had to press upon a second Immortal Flame to continue the investigation. And she discovered the second witness to verify and further expand on what the first witness said. You cannot deny their confessions, Jenly. A conspiracy is afoot.” Jenlyns let out a long sigh, gathering the papers, and giving each of them a long accusatory stare, as if that alone would prove them false. “I need to review them more thoroughly. The accused will be put on leave until I sort this out. There could be a justifiable reason for their actions.” “Of course.” Jameson nodded, though there was a hint of regret in his voice. “I did not want to bring you such news of your own, Jenly. And any disciplinary action is entirely in your hands, of course. Perhaps they do have a good reason! I wish them proven innocent myself, for you and I know, we cannot lose any more Sultansworns. There are few enough as it is!” Jenlyns did not respond, instead angrily tapping the gathered parchment together on the desk to align them in his grip. He knew his own inquiry into this matter had to be flawless and irreproachable. Else he himself could be thrown into this controversy and the Monestarists would like nothing better than to further mar the reputation of the Sultana’s Elite. “Why, I have an idea.” Jameson curled another broad smile, one far too cheerful for Jenlyns' comfort. He gave his friend a cautious arch of the brow. James chuckled at his expression. “Why not prove to my employers the integrity of these Sultansworns? Have them come to work for the Brass Blades. They can still serve the people of Ul’Dah, and perhaps if my employers cannot find fault with them, they will also let this matter go. Should you find them… innocent, that is.” “Brass Blades.” Jenlyns said with skepticism. “You want my Sworns to work as Brass Blades.” Jameson held both his hands up beside him in an exaggerated shrug. “Why not? Given the Brass Blade’s sullied reputation, give them shining examples to follow! Or are you afraid that the three accused are indeed corrupt?” The Captain of the Sultansworns exhaled through his nostrils, his jaw set. “Mcbeef might be rough around the edges, but she has always been faithful to her Oath. Until I find this conclusive,” he tapped on the gathered documents on his hand, “I am not assuming her guilt. Very well. I will assign them to serve the Brass Blades during their leave of absence.” Jenlyns grimaced, for he knew this was a painful demotion for any Sworn. “Excellent,” Jameson answered with an enthusiastic nod, the chocobo feather on his hat bobbing excitedly. “Worry not, Jenly. I am certain your Sworns will be shining examples of justice and righteousness for the Brass Blades to look up to. They will lead them well.” His grin widened. "They've no choice, really." ((Posts regarding events of the mines can be found here: the mines, investigation, and conspiracy ))

JARA finally got a lucky fishing hat!!!

Kat, the only reason I pay the monthly fee for this game IS for the RP. As others have said here. Yes I dabble into PVE for pretty things, but without RP, I would not play this game. The community is wonderful, and people I have ran into are fantastic. And the more I run into different characters, more I feel like it is a community because everyone seems to be involved in multiple plots which all somehow... can be weaved together through seven degrees of... *thinks*... Osric. He's the guy with the hand in MOST cookie jars that I can think of at this moment. And as for cities, there are RPs to be found in any city. My preference of course is Ul'Dah for the layout, the corruption that is just ingrained into its history, and because my character is a Sultansworn. But I have RPed in both Limsa and Gridania as well and both are very beautiful and idyllic settings on their own. I'd say give it a try! I think you will have a blast.

Yes... all them blades and no bloodshed! (welcome back Hornet btw!) (bloody huge Itar...) And tonight... here's Siha and Roen shamelessly gawking at Zach. (it's traditional!)

“Was he satisfied?” “As much as someone like Lolorito can be. But… with the right incentives, he was placated. For now.” “Good. I need Mister Kayah to be able to return to Ul’Dah. I need his network rebuilt.” “Can the miqo’te be trusted?” A small pause. “One should never trust a man like Mister Kayah. Simply make certain his interest aligns with yours. Then he can be of great asset.” “And does his interest… align with yours?” “He seems to have developed a distaste for the Sultansworns. Something he and I perhaps can share. He was useful to me once. He can be again.” “And what of the Sultansworns?” “Now that he and his… lover have parted ways, they no longer have a way to recognize my face. They still know my name, thanks to Miss Delial, and seem eager to find me. Something that needs to be rectified.” “The Flame Sergeant seems reluctant to bring them down.” “Yes, I saw his report. Replacing the core with the one from Mergrey’s foolish attempt. … Clever. What of the Brass Blades side of the investigation?” “The woman, Liliana Nazareth, seems eager. And motivated. She's an associate of the ex-Blade.” “Good. She may come across more leads soon.” “Very well. Will that be all?” “That will be all. Do send Lord Lolorito my regards.” “I shall. He will wait out on what happens with the Sultansworns. He will be pleased if what you promised him comes to fruition." "Patience is a virtue. Something that I know Lord Lolorito understands." "As well as knowing who your allies are. Very well. Good day, Miss Rae.” "Good day, Mister Taeros."

"I am ... a runaway." Roen shook her head. "My home is not here." All eyes were on her. Dennthota leaned against the wall, her massively muscled arms crossed, her expression dark. She had stayed to listen to her story, despite the fact that her disapproval of Natalie’s methods were clear and she still held her belief that some secrets need not be told. Perhaps Denn was right. But as Roen looked to the rest of the faces that were staring back at her, Siben, Stanzie, Remi, C’Kayah, Kage and Natalie, she could not see any other choice. "The people who took my ... adoptive parents. They were working for my real father." She sighed, her gaze going to her balled hands on her lap. "Their condition for my step father's safe return was for me to return home." “Which would be where exactly?” Siben asked. Roen felt that constriction around her chest tighten. She forced out her next word. "...Garlemald." Silence fell across the room. “Oh, gods… that would be it.” Stanzie finally sighed. Then suddenly Natalie began to laugh out loud. It grew in volume maniacally, and the miqo’te nearly doubled over in her seat. “Natalie…” Siben began worriedly. “Roen…” Natalie sighed loudly, wiping a tear from her eye, a strange smile lingering. Roen stared at her oddly, not knowing what to make of the bewildered look that the miqo’te wore. “Is that really all it was?” When Roen sat there stunned still, Natalie continued, sitting up. “I was tempered by a Primal for godsake, Roen. And you didn’t abandon me then. Do you think I would abandon you over something so little as your blood?” She shook her head chidingly. Roen stared at her still, blinking. She was still trying to believe the words that were spoken. Was… Natalie accepting her heritage? Without anger? Or hatred? “I have to agree with Natalie.” Kage piped up as well, relief clear in his demeanor. “You thought that would make things worse?” Remi shrugged nonchalantly. “So you're from Garlemald. It's not like you're charging at Limsa on a magitek walker screaming Death to Eorzeans!". "We don't judge you on 'what' you are, but on 'who' you are." Stanzie added softly, laying her hand on top of Roen’s. Roen glanced from one face to another. They were all offering her words of acceptance. She was struggling to believe her ears. "I... I joined the Garlean forces, Nael van Darnus' army at Carteneau." she heard herself say, once she admitted to one truth, the rest seemed to come easier. "And are you still with them?" Natalie tapped her jaw. “Does it matter?” Dennthota shot the Sultansworn a look. “I mean, you said the bond of "sisters in arms" was strong. It shouldn’t matter.” "I ran away from the war,” Roen shook her head. Siben gave a pointed look to Denn. "It could matter, though at least half of us here have no moral high ground to stand on in that regard." Natalie rose from her seat, and came to kneel in front of Roen. Her hands wrapped around the hyur’s and squeezed lightly. “Roen, everything you told me in our time together… your goals, your hopes and dreams, your desire to help. Was that all true?" "I did not lie. Not about any of that." Roen met Natalie’s gaze steadily. "I only did not speak of my past." Kage chuckled, grinning from ear to ear, as he looked to Kayah. “Thank the Twelve. Because I bet my oath, my sword and my shield on everything Roen saying to be the truth." Natalie nodded to Roen then stood. “Applicant Deneith!” She shouted, her words crisp. “Front and center!” Roen bolted to a stand, her back rigid. Natalie curled a small smile. "You will report tomorrow for your normal duties, in preparation for your oath swearing. Is that understood?” Roen blinked. “I am… reinstated?” Natalie pulled out a folded document from her pocket and extended it her way. "Your leave was approved after all.” She rolled her shoulders in a shrug, her grin lingering. "It's understandable you'd want to visit your family before the ceremony.” "Aye. I - I will.” Roen nodded quickly. “I will return to my normal duties in the morn." Natalie smiled at her warmly for a moment longer before returning to Kayah’s side to whisper something in his ear. Roen stood there for a few more minutes, glancing about the room. She watched as the rest of the Night Blades who had heard her story simply went about their business as if nothing had happened. They did not care that she was Garlean. There were no strange stares at her way, no air of suspicion that hung after her admission. Stanzie was exchanging some business details with Siben, and Remi and Dennthota were leaning close to each other exchanging quiet words. Roen inhaled. She felt lighter somehow. She stood in silence as she continue to watch everyone, as a slow grin lifted her lips. As the room was beginning to clear as the rest went about their tasks, Natalie approached her again, coughing into her hand. "I won't say I regret doing that,” Natalie looked a bit sheepish. It was a look Roen had never seen before. But under that veneer, there was still that hint of stubborn mischief. ”But do you think you can ever forgive me for it?" "There is nothing to forgive." Roen smiled. Natalie blinked, her brows raised. “I… I don't deserve that.” She curled a sheepish grin. "But thanks." "Reckless. Unpredictable." Roen chuckled. "That is your way." She eyed the miqo’te, holding her gaze. “I still trust you." "It always makes sense in my head..." Natalie muttered before nodding to Roen. “And I you.” She extended a hand. “And let it never fade." Roen took her hand and shook it with a firm grip. "Aye. Shield to shield.”

“Natalie, stop! Just let me leave!” Roen struggled to stand, leaning against the wall next to her for balance. But her precarious stance did not last long as she was roughly shoved down again by the miqo’te Sultansworn. Natalie’s eyes only grazed her for a moment, before it returned to the towering form of Dennthota looming over her, but Roen could see the unwavering stubbornness in her gaze. “No, Roen. You do not believe in your own worth. This is what you’re worth.” Natalie crouched in a defensive stance. Dennthota’s only warning was a subtle tensing of her jaw before she reached out and tried to snatch Natalie’s sword from her sheath. Their close proximity had brought it within easy reach. Natalie did not stop Denn from grabbing her sword, instead she yanked on her arm to pull her down even further, ramming her armored pauldron against the Roegadyn’s head. Dennthota reeled back from the impact, but she still managed to grab the Sultansworn’s sword from Natalie’s hip. She shook her head to clear her senses, then spun the sword in her hand. “Well then, shall we get serious?” “Natalie! Do not do this!” Roen shouted, struggling to right herself in the chair. “If you’re worth nothing, then neither am I,” Natalie growled. She was not going to budge against an armed opponent. “What the hells?” Another voice broke the tension as three more figures entered the room: Stanzie, Siben, and Remi stood at the entrance of the headquarters, looking stunned. Stanzie, who had spoken, and Siben... those two Roen knew well enough; the miqo’te woman and the hyur male had helped her in the past. The third, a miqo'te female, Roen had met briefly before. Remi belonged to an alliance company to the Night Blades called Grim Echo. “What’s going on here?” Siben Farnesworth stepped up next to Stanzie. He was frowning openly, although his attention was mostly directed towards the Roegadyn bearing a sword. The Roegadyn and he exchanged an uneasy look between them. “Nothing. This does not concern any of you, save Roen, Kage and I.” Natalie glared at all of them. “Now leave us be, and take that one with you.” She jutted her chin towards the Roegadyn. Dennthota had paused as well, perhaps hesitant to attack with company about. “As a ranking officer within our own building, it does concern me.” Siben’s eyes finally went to Roen and the manacles. “Why is Roen chained up?” “Because I did it.” Natalie said stubbornly. “On whose authority?” Siben arched a brow. “Mine.” “In an official capacity?” “No.” The Sultansworn’s tone was getting more recalcitrant. “Because I say so?” Remi snorted. “Definitely takin’ the attitude of the city in that ‘Sworn uniforum I see.” Siben crossed his arms, meeting Natalie’s gaze squarely. “So start talking.” “I will not.” Natalie snarled. Stanzie, whom Roen has always known to be patient and amiable miqo’te, stepped up to Natalie and Roen, her voice in a low growl. “You will all tell me what is going on.” “I will not.” Natalie met Stanzie’s intensity with one of her own. "I'm sorry, Roen.” Kage pleaded, stepping in between them, his cheeks red and his eyes glistening with tears. “I know you hate me for this. I messed up. But please! You can't expect me to let this go when you think you’re not of any worth or that your life may be forfeit! How do you expect us to take this?" Roen looked to Kage with sympathy, and in that short moment did not see the yellow vial that Siben withdrew from his coat. But she saw when he hurled it at the double main doors. It shattered with a pop, creating a large sticky splatter that spanned the width of the doorway. “Well, now no one is going anywhere. That glue is not going to dissolve for awhile.” He said nonchalantly, turning back to the rest of the group. “So we have plenty of time to figure out what’s going on.” Stanzie looked alarmed by Kage’s words, staring back at Roen. “Why are you trying to convince us that you are worthless and deserving to die?" Roen shook her head. Her words were starting to be spun out of control. “No! I… I just meant... I just have matters that I must deal with, that I cannot speak of. Natalie, Kage, Kayah… they want to help, but I do not want it! I can take care of this. I do not need to involve any of you.” “There seems to be mounting evidence to the contrary, Roen.” Siben crossed his arms again. "How can you expect Natalie and I to not get involved when you're willing to give up being Sultansworn forever?" Kage had tears streaking down his face. “Because I made my choice, Kage.” Roen said soothingly, trying to comfort Kage with some semblance of reassurance. “I will live by it.” Stanzie stepped up closer to her, her expression easing. “Too late for that now. You have people that care.” She glanced to Natalie, Kage, and the rest. “You can’t expect them not to help.” “Nat, will you unbind her?” Siben pulled out a chair and took a seat. “She's not getting out that door for a while, we can offer her some modicum of decency until we get this sorted out.” Natalie seemed to relent as well, as she studied Siben. “You promise to keep her from leaving? Until this is all… resolved?” Siben thumbed towards the door. “That isn’t going away for at least another bell at least.” Natalie nodded and came to stand in front of her with the keyring in hand, her gaze locking the hyur’s. “Now, Roen. The secret must come out.”

Lured in by a hug of all things!!! :dodgy:

((This post follows the events from this post and this post)) Bonds and Secrets Roen twisted her wrist, testing the manacles. The cold band of steel that wrapped around her wrists and ankles were heavy and tight. All she could do was to sit on the chair she had been pushed onto, with her hands bound behind her, her feet also restrained. Roen pulled at her shackles again, only to realize her efforts were futile. The irons were unrelenting, as much as the stare of the woman who had put her in them. Roen glared back at Natalie who was seated near her reclining against a sofa. The Sultansworn’s green eyes were cold and ungiving. Kage was only trying to help. Roen knew this; Kage always had the best intentions. The lalafell paladin-in-training had come seeking her out after she was dismissed by Natalie, to try and understand why. Roen was not surprised. She had not given Natalie a good enough reason, only that her family was in danger and her choices had been solely driven for their safety. Natalie dismissing her so quickly... did that surprise her? Perhaps. But Roen could not blame her mentor. She had left before, to make gil for Brenden Deneith’s medicines. And now she had done so again, without a word to Natalie, who had given her a second chance. She was just few suns away from being sworn in, and instead had disappeared without warning. Could Roen blame Natalie for her anger? How foolish was she when she thought to return to Ul’Dah, in hopes of returning to her duties as before? That perhaps amongst the Sultansworns she would find her haven, her safety, and her new home? Roen had told her Master at Arms that her future was the furthest thing from her mind when she made the decision to do this on her own with the Resistance. But that did not make Natalie’s dismissal of her any less devastating. Perhaps she had hoped for too much. But she had never intended to get Natalie or any of the other Sultansworns involved from the start. How could she? Too many questions would inevitably lead to the reasons why her family was taken, and that would lead to her own heritage as a Garlean. This she could never share with Natalie. Roen knew Natalie’s hatred for Garleans all too well. So when Kage asked why, Roen did not answer. But she still needed help. She had snuck her family away to Limsa Lominsa, and had desperately asked Dandoroun to hide them in his farm at Summerford. But they could not stay there forever, they needed papers, a new identity. They needed to be hidden away from the reach of the Empire. So she had returned to Ul’Dah to ask for Kayah’s help and that was when she ran into Kage, a fellow Sultansworn in training. Kage was so earnest about his concern and his desire to help, so when he offered his aid, even without knowing the reasons why, Roen believed he would. She followed him to the Mist where he said he could find Kayah. And that was when she ran into Natalie again. She too had come to find Kayah, for he was attending to an injured friend. But her regard of Roen was cold and distant, her words clipped. Roen met it stoically. She had already accepted that Natalie’s anger and being barred from the order was a kinder fate than telling her she was a Garlean. And possibly facing execution at her hands. But she was never given the opportunity to speak with Kayah. After a short exchange of words with Kage, Natalie stepped up behind her while she was talking with Kayah, and locked her wrists in manacles without a word. And now she sat on the chair in the Night Blades headquarters, with her hands and feet in chains. “Natalie... why are you doing this?!" Her voice still shook with disbelief. “Roen, you're willing to let me hate you, is that correct?" Natalie crossed her arms. "You'd rather face that than tell me what I want to know? Because if Kage is right, and you are telling the truth about your family… that's the only possibility." When Roen refused to answer, Natalie sighed, tapping a finger against her cheek. "I must admit, I was rather disappointed in you. But certain meddling people convinced me to think about the situation differently.” She leaned back, hooking her arms against the sofa cushions behind her. “So, you'd rather let me dismiss you than speak of what happened? I'd rather face your hate than not know. So it seems we are at an impasse.” Roen narrowed her eyes on the smug grin that Natalie flashed her way. She turned away from it, instead looking to Kage bitterly. He who had brought her here with words of trust and reassurance. He stood on the other side of the room, but his head was bent, his gaze unwilling to meet hers. “How long do you mean to keep me in manacles then, Natalie?” Roen asked quietly. "Until you tell me what I want to know". The Sultansworn shrugged. "I'm convinced you're in danger, and I mean to help whether you want it or not. So get comfortable." She kicked her feet up onto the table in front of her. Roen's chest sank as all the air left her. She closed her eyes. "Natalie, please. I cannot," she pleaded. "I cannot tell you." "Alright," Natalie sighed, tapping her chin again. She changed tact. "Let me ask you a theoretical question. Back when I took that somnus, did you wish you had stopped me?" Roen blinked. That was moons ago. When she was trying to figure out who had sent an assassin after her, one posed as a beggar that then stabbed her in the middle of the street in Ul’Dah. That investigation had come to a dead end only after finding out that the one who hired the assassin was also distributing a mysterious drug in form of a licorice. Natalie had boldly tried the licorice herself, to discover that it was somnus. She had done so against Roen’s advice. "Then? Right as you did so? Aye." "Because you knew I was doing something dangerous, something foolish." Natalie pushed off from the cushions, leaning forward. "In fact, I could have died, had the dose been slightly more concentrated. So, knowing all that, why didn't you?" Roen turned her gaze back to Natalie, her words still coated with bitterness. "I trusted your judgement. Your reckless and unpredictable judgement. Natalie, can you not do the same, and allow me to do what I need to do?" Her voice was beginning to shake. “I trust you with my life! And giving up your friendship was not easy!" "I know.” Natalie calmly answered. It only fueled Roen’s indignation more. "But I had to do it. And I would do so again, Natalie. As much as that would kill me to do it, I would!" "That's why I'm doing this.” Natalie’s words continued to be cool, though her green eyes were intent upon her. “The other day… I let my anger rule my judgment. But not now. I'm not giving up on you, Roen. Even if you curse me for it all your life." Roen closed her eyes again, bowing her head. Her red locks fell around her face, hiding her pained expression. “Natalie, please. Just let me do this.” “What did I tell you before, Roen. I’m always on your side. For twelve’s sake, we slew a primal together. Whatever this is, I won’t let you face it alone.” Natalie pounded an armored fist onto her thigh. “I can’t. I will not.” When Roen looked back to Natalie, her vision was already blurring with emotion. “Natalie. I cannot. I cannot tell you. Please do not ask it of me.” She had to make her understand that what she was asking would only make things worse. Natalie seemed moved for an instant, gnawing her lip. Her expression softened as she closed her eyes and exhaled. "I am asking it, Roen.” She opened her eyes again. “I am.” Roen met the miqo’te’s eyes for a long silent moment, as what little hope she had left her. She finally lowered her gaze, resignation and sadness falling upon her like a shadow. "Can't we help her without asking for the why?" Kage finally turned from his self-imposed exile, earnestly pleading to Natalie as well. His voice was heavily weighed with guilt. “We can still help her family, keep them safe! And Kayah can have their names changed!” Natalie answered him with silence. She only kept her eyes on Roen, her gaze unrelenting. "I wish for their safety above all," Roen whispered, staring at the manacles around her ankles. If she told the truth, those manacles would never come off. But did she have a choice now? At least her family was safe. "What happens to me does not matter,” she whispered, closing her eyes. She resigned herself to tell them the truth. Perhaps she owed that to Natalie. Roen did not look up when she heard Natalie’s gauntlets drop to the floor. But she did as she heard the miqo'te's armored footsteps approach, only to have her head snap to the side as Natalie struck her hard across the face. Her cheek began to burn immediately. "Don't you ever fucking say that, Roen!" Natalie growled, her chest heaving. “Don’t you dare.” Roen ignored the stinging in her face, looking back to Natalie with defiance and anger. “It is my life, Natalie! I know its worth!” It took only an instant, but Roen saw Natalie’s fist curl and rise, next to those angry green eyes. She shut her own and flinched when she heard the violent slam just next to her ear, as Natalie’s knuckles cracked the wall. Roen could feel the woman’s breath just above her cheek as her own chest rose and fell. Then she felt a wet drop on her face. Roen opened her eyes just as the miqo’te spun away from her. She only caught a hint of glistening on her cheek. “Just… just sit there then,” she croaked. “Until you’re ready to talk.” The Sultansworn quickly rounded the corner of the room, walking into the office next door. Roen turned from where Natalie had retreated to the sound of the main door opening as the towering figure of a Roegadyn entered the room. It was Dennthota Ahtahrmwyn, one of the members of the Night Blades. The purple haired Roe wore a smile on her face, but it soon dissipated when she spotted Roen. “What... what the hell is going on here?” The woman’s eyes went to the shackles. In two long steps she was towering over the red-headed hyur. Roen saw her large hands extend towards her. “Give me your hands, child.” Natalie quickly rounded the corner, her eyes bloodshot. “Get out of here,” she growled as she stepped in between Dennthotoa and her prisoner. “You didn't put her in these, did you?” The Roegadyn woman paused. "What's it to you.” “I ain't here to start no trouble with you.” Dennthota eyed the Sultansworn. “But you simply can't take away the freedom of another. It’s not right.” She straightened, as if to use her looming figure to punctuate her next words. “Now move so I can get her out of those.” "You have no idea what you're walking into, Denn,” Natalie lowered herself slightly, in a ready stance. “Taking off those cuffs would likely be the same as killing her myself, now." She snarled through gritted teeth. "Leave us be." Dennthota narrowed her eyes. “You tryin' to get somethin' out of her, ain't ya?” "I am." “I thought as much,” Denn shook her head. “Some secrets are best left untouched, Natalie. Remi did the same to me once, and it ruined our relationship. People hide things for a reason. You need to respect that.” "No," Natalie spat back. "I don't. Some bonds run thicker than others, Denn.” She glanced over her shoulder to Roen. “Even if people don't realize it. The bond of a sister in arms is stronger than you could know." Roegadyn’s eyes became slitted. “Well you're a bloody idiot then. I'm going to ask you one more time to move, else I'm putting that hard ass head of yours into the wall.” “You can try.” Natalie did not budge; her voice was laced with steel. Denn flashed her a grin. “I was hoping you would say that.”

I loooooove Kage's little head poking over the table. Too cute! He's JUST tall enough!

Kiht, your post went from: Awwww... To Creepy... to me laughing out loud. WHY you in a pot.

I Loooooooove IC dungeons! If you need one more and see me around, hit me up!

Castrum. It was the most impressive thing she had ever seen. The dark metallic walls rose up before her, towering into the sky, its smooth surface seeming infallible and unassailable. Uniformed guards stood at every entryway, though many of them gave the little girl of ten years no mind as she walked past them, her grey eyes wide and her mouth hanging open. Or perhaps it was her taller companion she was following that invited their gaze instead. Fenn's stride was long and confident; the pale-haired hyur youth did not pause for any guard, and the flash of his keycard got him through any door he wanted. Roen had to quicken her pace to keep up, but she often found her head turned, gawking at whatever presented itself when she rounded a new corner. Some magitek creations seemed to even look at her way as she passed, glowing eye watchful. "What do you think, Roen? Beautiful, aren't they?" she heard Fenn say too late. She crashed into him before she could see that he had stopped to wait for her. She would have bounced right off of him onto the floor if it wasn't for his hands on her shoulders to steady her. She peered sheepishly up into his light blue eyes. He smiled at her. "The technology behind them is more intricate than you can imagine just by looking at them," Fenn said as he approached one of the dark machines, Roen following tentatively behind. When she came to stand by him, he took her hand and laid it flat against the dark metal surface, lightly pressing down with the weight of his own. "Feel that pulsing hum?" Roen blinked as she watched a web of faint light appear beneath her fingertips as if to respond to her touch. "Is it alive?" The pale-haired youth let out a laugh, full of mirth and amusement. "Well, no. It isn't. But it is sophisticated enough to fool you sometimes." His hand left hers to open a small panel on the side, displaying an array of controls within. "You just have to know how to tell it what you want. Magitek is powerful, and it can be can be very dangerous in the hands of someone who knows what it is capable of.” He took her hand again, guiding her to a nearest terminal. His use of the keyboard was quick and efficient, and within a few clicks the monitor displayed the schematics of the floor they were on. Fenn tapped his finger against the screen. "We are here, and..." he clicked on the keyboard again. And a blinking light appeared on the other side of the screen. "And there is Ferah." Roen squinted at the blinking light. Ferah was Fenn’s serious older sister, but she never had any mean words for her. "And Sera? She is with Ferah?" She knew Fenn’s younger sister was usually not far from her siblings. Sera was Roen’s age, and was often prone to fits of temper or dark moods. Roen always thought something made her unhappy, much like her own father, and Roen often took it as a silent dare to try and find something to bring cheer to the fickle girl. When Fenn gave Roen a knowing look as an answer, she smiled and studied the floorplan, anticipating what he was going to say next. He always did love games. Fenn grinned back at her. "Let's see who can get to them first." He clicked the terminal once more, turning off the monitor. He turned to her, giving her his keycard, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "You can use my keycard, and take any route you want, but you can't be seen by the guards. If you are not with me, they will likely question you.” Roen took his keycard with wide eyes, she did not have one of her own, despite the fact that she knew her father to be a very important man in this building. He had never seen it fit to bring her to a Castrum, nor allow her any access to where he spent the most of his days. It was Fenn who had brought her here on a whim, declaring that day he was going to give her an impromptu tour of one of the proud paragons of the Empire. She closed her small hands around the keycard, holding it carefully as not to lose it. "And you? You do not need a keycard?" She peered up back at Fenn. He winked back at her, confidence clear in his gleaming smile. "I will have to maneuver without. That's my challenge." He nodded to her. “Are you ready to play, Roen?” Roen grinned wide at him and nodded. “What… is that..??” Hroch’s question was high pitched, betraying his bewilderment and utter confusion. He was staring at the screen over Roen’s shoulder, as she worked on the terminal to bring up the floor plans. Prisoner: Brenden Deneith. Eorzean. Floor 24. Section 5. A blinking light appeared on the screen within a grid. Roen scanned it quickly, as she was taught to do as part of a game when she was a child. She silently thanked Fenn in that moment, even though ironically he would be opposing her if he were here this day. Had her life taken a different course, Roen could have been in this facility working against the Resistance now as they worked to free her adoptive father. The brief reflection of herself in a Garlean uniform as she turned off the screen, only seemed to punctuate this twist of fate. Donning uniforms from a few Garlean soldiers that Gharen had ambushed the night before, it had made sneaking into the Castrum and taking out a few more guards much easier. And while her mentor dispatched the guards with quiet efficiency, Roen preferred to take on some of the Vanguards that patrolled the area instead, finding faceless magiteks easier to swing her blade against than living breathing guards. Those she did have to face however, she left them wounded and unconscious, but still breathing. Eventually the two had cleared the way enough for Xydane, Hroch, and Daena to join them within the walls. And while Gharen and Xydane took to dealing with more patrols, Hroch and Daena followed Roen as they searched for her father. She knew of ways to get around some of the security measures, as she was familiar with the layout of the Castrum, but even with disguises in place, they could not rely on subterfuge for too long. Roen knew they had to hurry and find Brenden Deneith before all of Castrum Marinum was alerted to their presence. “Found him,” she said as she snatched up the keycard she had confiscated from one of the guards. If her mentor noticed earlier that she had left them alive, he did not make it known. Hroch and Daena now accompanied her, and their fists delivered hard blows to knock out any other guards they came upon as well. She tossed another keycard at Hroch who caught it in midair, then stared at it with a befuddled eyes. “What am I supposed to do with this?” Roen flashed him a nervous grin and answered with the toss of her head toward the hallway. “Follow me.” Floor 24. Section 5. Roen flashed her keycard for Hroch and Daena, then slid it in into the slot by the door. It hissed open but was empty. Roen motioned them down one hallway and pivoted towards the other. She could hear the sounds of steel against steel outside the bunker, and more yelling and shouts that were quickly muffled. Their luck was holding out in that alarm had not gone off yet. But Roen knew it could not last for long. Her heart raced as she ran from door to door, sliding the keycard and waiting for that glimpse into the room. It was the third door before she saw a familiar face within, an older man that raised his hand in front of his eyes to shield it from the bright light that flooded the darkened cell. Roen smile widely as she stepped in. “Aren’t you a little short to be a Garlean trooper?” He muttered, slowly rising to a seat from his prone position. “Hm? Oh the mask,” Roen pulled off the mask and the helm. “I am here to rescue you!” Brenden Deneith blinked. “Roen..?” Roen rushed forward to take the man in a fierce embrace, her grasp tight with overwhelming relief. Her chest sunk just a little to find his form more frail than she had remembered. Even in the two days he had gone missing, it was already obvious he had received beatings, and likely little to no sustenance. “Can you stand? We need to get you out of here.” Brenden Deneith nodded as he began to rise, although Roen could see he was moving slower. She slid her arm under his to support him. He reassured her with a weak smile. “Aye, I can manage.” Soon they were moving with as much speed as they could manage as they made their way out of Castrum Marinum, with her Master at Arms heading up the front, Daena and Hroch guarding their sides, and Xydane covering the rear. Roen tried not to notice the mercenary’s axe that was stained and dripping darkly red. As the final guard fell before Gharen Wolfsong’s feet, Hroch and Daena rushed out past, with Brenden Deneith managing to follow closely behind. Roen paused at the gate, turning around to wait for Xydane. He had dispatched another guard behind them and trotted up, his eyes lit with a fire she had not seen before. She nodded to him as she turned, giving a look to her mentor as well. But as Gharen and Roen made their exit, she heard Xydane’s footsteps heading away, running back into the Castrum. “What are you doing??” Roen called out after him, eyes wide. Xydane shot her a wicked grin and a small salute. “I am going to make sure no one follows.” He spun away and disappeared around the corner. “He knows wha’ he’s doin’ lass,” Gharen put a hand on her shoulder. Roen glanced up at him, nodded, and trotted after Brenden Deneith. She would see him to safety. It was not long after that she heard the screeching alarm sound through the Castrum walls. Roen watched him sleep as she sat on the edge of the bed, the man who saved her over five cycles ago, the one who took that delirious wandering girl as if she were one of his own, and loved her as he did his own two children. That same strong man seemed so gaunt and weak now. “They will both be fine,” Gharen Wolfsong’s voice broke the listless silence, turning both Roen and Hroch’s gaze toward him. Her Master at Arms was leaning against the wall, his arms crossed. Hroch was sitting across from her on the edge of the second bed in the room in Vesper Bay, next to Daena who was tossing and turning in her sleep. Roen glanced to the young Highlander girl as well, her eyes narrowing at the beads of sweat that were on the girl’s brows. She had been bitten by a yarzon during their escape from Castrum Marium, and had collapsed just as they arrived in Vesper Bay. They had given her a dose of an antidote, and Roen had used conjury to help her body fight off the toxin and mend her from within. She reassured Hroch that the girl just needed to rest through the night to allow her body to recover, but the young man hovered near Daena still, clear worry in his bent brows. Roen would be forever grateful to them, for helping her rescue Brenden Deneith. She would forever owe them for this. She had already given her promise of aid to Daena and Hroch, for whatever they would ask of her in the future. She was indebted to this Xydane Vale as well, although the quiet warrior asked for nothing in return. And then of course, her Master at Arms. She did not know how to repay them all. But her thoughts did not linger there. She had to get the Deneiths to safety. The eyes of the Empire would seek them out again, and because of their association with her, they were no longer allowed to return to their previous lives. Roen would see them to some semblance of normalcy and safety. This she vowed. Brenden Deneith had always wanted to see Limsa Lominsa, and to fish off the coasts of La Noscea. Perhaps she would make arrangements to move them there. She knew Nazeru had connections with the Maelstorm, and Dandaroun had a farm in Summerford. She would return to Ul’Dah in the middle of the night to retrieve Anna and the children, and leave with Brenden from Vesper Bay for Limsa in secrecy. Still. What of after? The Empire still sought her out. This entire ordeal was orchestrated with the purpose of returning her back to her Garlean home. Even with her family safe, could she return to her life as before? Would they dare try again while she walked amongst the people of Ul’Dah? And trained amongst the Sultansworns? And what of the Resistance who helped her rescue her adoptive father? Roen sighed quietly and returned her gaze back to Brenden, absently tucking the blanket around his shoulders. “Even if I get my family to safety, they would still be searching for you all,” Roen said quietly, giving Hroch and Gharen a sidelong glance. “Aye. I say we start figurin’ out how Aylard disappeared, and see who is on who’s side.” Gharen uncrossed his arms, as he pushed off from the wall. “I intend tae track down an’ start tailin’ Miss Delial. I think she be our strongest lead yet.” Roen frowned a little at the thought, but did not offer an argument as he made his way toward the door. “Take care o’ yerself lass, and yer kin, ye hear?” he said as he paused at the door. “Stay well, Master Gharen,” Roen answered with a nod. As she always did at their parting. She did not know that that would be the last time she would see him as he was.

/joins in the hyur cheer! Love the last name too. Welcome to Balmung! Maybe I will have to bump into you one of these days! I've been meaning to get more walk up random RPs into my routine of late...

It can't be said enough. THANK YOU for all your work Kiht! You and Xydane too. There were a lot more people there yesteday than I'd ever imagined, and I know running something like that is... as Cris said, like herding cats. You did great. And all the effort and time put into it, sometimes it can go unnoticed. I am sorry to have missed all the RP after, but I was happy to be a small part either way. Aaand I am sure I will track you down for more scenes in the near future. Good job.

I do get a lot of chuckles from this thread. Post some screenies Aya!

This event sounds so cute! I will have to find an IC reason to be there for sure.

Uuunnh.. I love the warrior AF. LOVE. K'mih looks great!

It is also known as the Adventurer's Guild.

I too like the shared one, since sometimes there just isn't enough characters around to respond to something that should/can be responded to by law enforcers. Aaaand... I don't have room for another LS either. >.>