Veritas vos liberabit

Garryn gave Jareth a firm nod, appreciating the steadiness of his old friend’s resolve. The warmth of camaraderie tempered the cold anger that had settled in his chest since the attack. He turned his gaze back to the griffon, now resting peacefully. Its rhythmic breathing was a testament to Jareth’s skill, and to their combined determination to set things right.

We’ve been through worse, haven’t we? Garryn said, a wry smile breaking through his hardened exterior. Though I don’t think either of us expected to be patching up griffons and chasing shadows again. It’s almost enough to make me nostalgic.

His tone was light, but his eyes carried a weight that couldn’t be ignored. He reached out, brushing a hand gently over the griffon’s feathers, his touch both protective and reverent. She’s strong—stronger than I thought. Just like you. He met Jareth’s gaze again, the teasing warmth replaced by a rare earnestness. You don’t give yourself enough credit, you know. Always playing the humble mage. But I see it, Jareth. You’ve got a fire in you. And we’re going to need that fire for what’s ahead.

Straightening, Garryn’s demeanor shifted, taking on the air of a man accustomed to planning his next move. His hand rested on the hilt of his sword, the familiar weight grounding him as he began to piece together a strategy.

Those assassins didn’t just stumble upon me by chance. Someone sent them, and whoever it was knew exactly what they were doing. The blade they used—it wasn’t just designed to kill. It was meant to leave a mark. A message. His jaw tightened, anger simmering beneath the surface. They wanted me to know they were coming, and they wanted me to know I couldn’t fight back. But they made a mistake.

He stepped closer to Jareth, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial tone. They underestimated me. Us. The blade—did you feel it? That taint wasn’t just magic. It felt... wrong. Like it didn’t belong here. I think we’re dealing with something bigger than assassins or rival kingdoms. Something darker.

The fire in his eyes burned brighter now, his resolve as unyielding as the steel he carried. We’ll need to track them, follow their trail back to whoever pulled the strings. But first, we regroup. Rest. You’ve done enough for tonight, my friend. We both have.

He placed a hand on Jareth’s shoulder once more, the gesture firm and reassuring. We’ll face this together. Just like we always have.

The griffon stirred, lifting its head slightly to watch the two men, its gaze filled with gratitude and trust. Garryn smiled faintly, a rare softness breaking through his hardened exterior.

And with her on our side... well, I’d say we’ve got the beginnings of a fine team, wouldn’t you?

His laugh was quiet but genuine, a small flicker of light against the darkness they faced. Whatever was coming, whatever lay ahead, Garryn knew they would face it together. And that was enough. For now.

@Jareth