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The Elder Scrolls Forums _ Elder Scrolls Lore _ RP: High Rock Hijinks

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 09:33 AM

Hello, and welcome to our Elder Scrolls Role Playing threads, where we adventure and socialize in the vibrant land of Tamriel.

Before we begin, we'd like to clarify a few things:

This is an 'open roleplay' and everyone is encouraged to join in at any time!

'Open' roleplay does not mean 'unorganized' or 'limitless', however. The events in this story are usually planned, and if something BIG happens, you can be certain that it is the result of much discussion between players, usually in the mIRC chat (#Loranna_RP). This is not just a bunch of disorganized individuals doing what they think would be fun for their character at the time.

So, while everyone is welcome to join in, they are NOT welcome to jump in and do big, world-changing things without DISCUSSING IT FIRST. Let me be very clear about what cannot be done without permission:

1:
Any action that effects another person's character, for ill or good. Although most people realize they can't harm another person's character without permission, many don't realize that you can't HELP another character without permission, either. Many characters have flaws for a reason. Don't go healing, saving, or otherwise fixing another character without DISCUSSING IT FIRST with the player involved.

2:
Any event that would drastically change things that have been done to the world, whether the change is physical (rebuilding destroyed locations), political (converting a population to a new cause), military (killing off all the badguys) or anything else. Almost every situation, good or bad, that exists in the RP was done for some reason. Don't go changing or fixing things without DISCUSSING IT FIRST with the group.

Everyone who is involved in the RP is welcome in the mIRC chat channel #Loranna_RP. If you have a plot idea then you are encouraged to go there and discuss it. If you cannot get on the channel for some reason, or if the player whos character you would affect with your plan is not there, then PM them using this board's PM function. That's what it's there for.

For information on reaching #Loranna_RP via Mirc or Chatspike, look http://sekkairc.freewebpage.org/.

Not following the above advice will only result in one thing: your post is likely to be completely ignored by everyone as if it did not happen. This is obvously not good for anyone, so please, discuss major events before doing them.

Remember: Secret plans and surprises are seldom fun for anyone else. Before they're revealed they're boring, because nobody knows about them, and afterwards they're just annoying, because nobody knew about them.

Thank you, and have fun!

===

Info for Loranna:

Race: Nord
Sex: Female

Summary for Loranna:

Loranna, having recently comforted Slyvos after he received word of his friend's Two-Tail's demise, is currently outside of Westcastle, traveling with the party to pick up Illidan's cure from the witches who run around naked in an abandoned mine and summon Clanfears in their spare time. She has just purchased some rings and amulets to use for making Turn Undead items for the party and some alchemical ingredients to make a new batch of healing and disease-curing potions.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 09:36 AM

Teleran, Male Dunmer/Breton half-breed (Dunmer with blue eyes)

He's with Loranna at the moment, picking up the cure from the witches.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 26 2005, 09:37 AM

Summary-

Dante, male Dunmer, is headed towards the witches' mine.

Illidan, male Dunmer, with a splash of vampire, is
--------------------

Witches' mine-

Dante stepped forward and knocked on the door. Shortly a robed woman opened it, and ushered the group in. "Welcome, welcome...I take it you're here to pick up the cure then?" She asked, heading towards the stairs.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 09:45 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 03:37 AM)

"Yes," Loranna says, doing a credible job of not letting the smell from outside and inside get to her - much. She wonders, not for the first time, wether these witches have any sense of smell left, or if it completely fled them.

"It is ready, yes?" she asks, her nose twitching a little.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 09:46 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 12:37 AM)

“Yep, that’s why we’re here. The cure,” Teleran said. “Why else would we be here? Are you cooking up something fun back there?” He peered past the robed witch, looking at the stairs, flipping a dagger restlessly.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 26 2005, 09:50 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 26 2005, 05:15 PM)

"Yes...it is indeed ready..." She said, "although...we have a rather limited amount to give away, for our own...reasons."

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 05:16 PM)

The witch looked at Teleran oddly for a moment, "something fun? No...we don't cook." She said with a wink, before slowly descending the stairs.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 09:58 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 03:50 AM)

"Yes...it is indeed ready..." She said, "although...we have a rather limited amount to give away, for our own...reasons."
The witch looked at Teleran oddly for a moment, "something fun? No...we don't cook." She said with a wink, before slowly descending the stairs.

Loranna could hear the unsaid addition to the witch's words: Don't ask for any more than what we're giving you. She finds herself wondering what else one can do with that weed, beyond what she's already learned.

Hearing Teleran, she looks over at the Dunmer with an odd expression as she follows down the stairs. "Something on your mind dear?" she asks.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 09:59 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 12:50 AM)

“We don't need too much. Just enough for two doses.

"Well, of course not cooking, but you knew what I meant,” Teleran replied following the witch down the stairs. “So what is it then? It has to be interesting at least. Otherwise, how could you stand being cooped up in a mineshaft with corpses in the ventilation?”

Posted by: w0nders Apr 26 2005, 10:12 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 05:29 PM)

"Interesting? Not much interesting stuff happens down here lately. Apart from the summonings, and the dancing. But not much at the moment. And about the smell...most of it doesn't come down this far into the mine. And when it does, we have some methods we use to keep the smell away."

The witch led the group down another tunnel and to a small room, where another younger witch was standing...naked. and was pouring a strange concoction into one last flask, which she placed on a small side table with three others like it. "Hi." She muttered.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 10:16 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 04:12 AM)

Summonings are not exactly my idea of interesting, Loranna thinks to herself. Or rather, they're entirely too interesting in a very in-your-face sort of way.

"Hi," she says to the naked witch, as though seeing a twenty-something Breton woman standing around without clothes and mixing up potions of Vampirism Cure was a common occurance. She lets the witch finish what she's doing, not wanting to interupt - it might spoil things for all she knew.

I wonder what Dante and Teleran think of this, she thinks idly.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 26 2005, 10:18 AM

OOC Description: Radont, Male Imperial, is a noble knight currently traveling with Loranna and group.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 10:18 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 01:12 AM)

“One, two, three, four. Four potions, I think that satisfies what we need, any other vampires will just have to take a different kind of release from their curse,” Teleran stated. “A way to ward off stenches, that’s a useful charm.

“A pleasure to meet you sera,” Teleran addressed the witch. “Are you the one to thank for the cure that will save our friend?”

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 26 2005, 10:21 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 04:18 AM)

Radont looks disdainfully at the witches, suppressing the urge to draw out his sword and slaughter every last one. He stays in the background silently waiting to leave and be on to better places.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 26 2005, 10:24 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 26 2005, 05:46 PM)

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 05:48 PM)

"We're all to thank, after all...everyone pitched in to make these potions. It was simply my turn to finish off the last one." She said softly.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 10:30 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 04:24 AM)

The witch scooped up the flasks, and handed them to Loranna. Whilst giving Dante an odd look, he was, for the most part, watching the floor. But every now and then would look up for a moment or too. A boyish smile on his lips.
"We're all to thank, after all...everyone pitched in to make these potions. It was simply my turn to finish off the last one." She said softly.

Loranna carefully accepts the potions, tucking them safely away. Four potions - one for Illidan, one for Noliar's brother, and two left for possible study, or simply in case any of their other friends was ever unlucky enough to get cursed with vampirism.

She glances at her companions, raising her eyebrows - especially at Teleran.

And this is why Azura tended to manifest topless, she thinks to herself. I'd better get the boys out of here before Teleran gives Shai another reason to punt his head back to Red Mountain.

"We thank you for preparing these for us, as does our friend who needs these," she says, bowing slightly to the witches. "By your leave then, my ladies ..."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 10:33 AM

“You are too modest. Thank you for your actions, without you we would have lost a dear friend now we can restore him.” Teleran said bowing his head. Hearing Loranna he adds. “Yes, time is passing far too quickly. We must get the cure to Illidan quickly so your trials do not go to waste.”

Posted by: w0nders Apr 26 2005, 10:37 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 26 2005, 06:00 PM)

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 06:03 PM)

"Farewell..." Said the two witches in unison. The robed woman led the group back outside the mine. "Good luck." She said, slamming the door behind her.

"Well...back to town it is then." Dante said with a grin, scratching the back of his head.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 10:42 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 26 2005, 01:37 AM)

“I still have my mark in Ald Raathim. Why not just recall back there and go to Balmora?” Teleran asked. “Faster that way. We can get the cure to Illidan faster, erm did we ever ask how long the potion lasts before it goes sour? Maybe we should.”

Posted by: Loranna Apr 26 2005, 10:47 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 26 2005, 04:42 AM)

"Potions generally don't go sour, Tel," Loranna says absently. "And before we go barreling into Balmora, let's take a couple minutes to prepare, hmm?"

She smiles winningly. "I've already made some advance preperations; I asked Slyvos to enchant some rings and amulets for those of us who can't cast Turn Undead and I've got a fresh batch of ingredients to make into potions, in case things turn ugly. We should also ask Tris if Mirea can give us any additional intelligence on Balmora - where exactly Illidan is being held, for example, and where the other vampires are concentrated."

"Plus, we need to figure out how exactly to get into Balmora too; the Mage Guild is not an option since the vampires hold it themselves, and Vvardenfell from what we know is still pretty devestated - no ready means of travel on the island. I'm working on that too with my flying potions, though."

Posted by: sjvan0 Apr 26 2005, 10:49 AM

OOC: Frostien Marcelle, middle-aged male Breton battlemage, is still in Westcastle, about to enter the local mages guild. Yasur Aranakan, dead Dunmer male, is still floating around somewhere.

Frostien stepped into the darkened Mages guild. Even though it was a warm, sunny day in Westcastle, the fireplaces were still burning along, and combined with the rows of incense, it was almot stifling in the entrance hall. Frostien removed his cloak, revealing an elegently woven shirt, made of fine threads of crimson and gold. He strode into a room to the left, and spoke to the guild guide.

"Teleport this message to the Menevia mages guild." he said, pulling an envelope and five gold pieces from the pouch hanging at his side. He handed both items to the breton woman, and walked off as white flashes filled the room.

Back in the main hall, he spoke to the Guild's enchanter and vendor.

"Can I help you, conjurer?." The towering Altmer said, his voice hinting at distaste to Frostien, depite the smile plastered on his face.

"Yes you can, good sir." Frostien replied cooly, "I was wondering what items you currently have available?"

"Right this way, sir" the Altmer said, his smile vanishing from his face. He led Frostien into another room, one filled wall-to-wall with various magickal weapons and trinkets.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 26 2005, 11:07 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 26 2005, 01:47 AM)

"I suppose you're right, we wouldn't want to cure Illidan just to have someone else fall prey to vampirism." Teleran said, grinning foolishly. "And we picked up people here who can't recall to Ald Raathim, so I suppose we'll have to take the long route anyway."

The road back to Westcastle was uneventful and they were soon back at the Dirty Muskrat Tavern gathering up those who had aided in the search for the cure to explain plans for departure and begin preparing for the coming conflict with the vampires of Balmora.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 26 2005, 11:58 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 26 2005, 04:47 AM)

"I don't trust magick so if it's all the same to you Loranna I'll pass on the amulets. This is all the magic I trust," Radont said as he held up his enchanted steel blade. He looked at the ground as if recalling distant memories. "If I should happen to get injured in Balmora, I would like to heal naturally, no magick ok?"

Posted by: Lywel Ap Mychfreid Apr 26 2005, 11:34 PM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 04:58 AM)

"I don't trust magic so if it's all the same to you Loranna I'll pass on the amulets. This is all the magic I trust," Radont said as he held up his enchanted steel blade. He looked at the ground as if recalling distant memories. "If I should happen to get injured in Balmora, I would like to heal naturally, no magic ok?"

Well Here goes, i'll try to make a start (Notice i add a scotch accent to the writing)
Summary:

Hamish MacDuff-Brown Haired, Green Eyed Nordic Highlander
Wears a kilt and carries a claymore, what more could you add?

His Gealic Saying "Fiero A Fiere" Fierce With The Fierce

"Aye, I prea second that lad!" shouts Hamish MacDuff as he takes his pipe from his teeth, "Magic aer for Ninnies an' cowards." He walks over with a slight bow as the smoke rises from his nose. "A thousand many pardon's to yea fine band o' folks but i was here in the mages guild wondering if i could join up with a fine group as yourselves to go to the great Ald Ruhn and conduct bussiness with the Redoran nobles there." He moves with utmost skill of diplomacy at his side. "I can see you would be hesitant on a Nordic Highlander as meself, but i assure you i have blood bussiness only with the redoran who so killed me brother Seamus Of Thrisk." He looks about the group with his emerald green eyes awaiting upon an answer.

Posted by: Aki Apr 27 2005, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 05:58 AM)

"No magic? Pray you don't get bitten then," Reichi said. "Magick, be it in enchanted, spell, or potion form, if all that'll save you from contracting Vampirsm." He shrugged.
"That, and battle with healing of some kind can get really rough, trust me."

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 27 2005, 04:58 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 26 2005, 08:09 PM)

"I have my reasons, which I will not divulge here, perhaps sometime I will tell the tale of how I came to loathe magick. Don't get me wrong, if the situation calls for it I will accept it's use" Radont said in clarification, "but I'd rather not."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 06:05 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 10:58 PM)

Loranna gives Radont a small smile, curious as to why Radont despises magic. His dislikes would prove somewhat limiting in a pitched battlw, though she could account for them, she supposes.

"Unless you're bitten - or suffer the loss of a limb," Loranna says, "I'll refrain from using magic on you dear, as you wish ..."

QUOTE(Lywel Ap Mychfreid @ Apr 26 2005, 05:34 PM)

Well Here goes, i'll try to make a start (Notice i add a scotch accent to the writing)
Summary:

Hamish MacDuff-Brown Haired, Green Eyed Nordic Highlander
Wears a kilt and carries a claymore, what more could you add?

His Gealic Saying "Fiero A Fiere" Fierce With The Fierce
"Aye, I prea second that lad!" shouts Hamish MacDuff as he takes his pipe from his teeth, "Magic aer for Ninnies an' cowards." He walks over with a slight bow as the smoke rises from his nose. "A thousand many pardon's to yea fine band o' folks but i was here in the mages guild wondering if i could join up with a fine group as yourselves to go to the great Ald Ruhn and conduct bussiness with the Redoran nobles there." He moves with utmost skill of diplomacy at his side. "I can see you would be hesitant on a Nordic Highlander as meself, but i assure you i have blood bussiness only with the redoran who so killed me brother Seamus Of Thrisk." He looks about the group with his emerald green eyes awaiting upon an answer.

Loranna winces very slightly. "I reckon myself neither ninny nor coward, good sir, yet magic healing is my profession ... and have you heard of the recent struggles in Vvardenfell? The whole island was rocked by the Azurites and then the eruption of Red Mountain; it is likely the Redoran you have blood business with no longer lives ..."

"May I buy a drink for you though, sir? Call me Grier," Loranna continues, giving the newcomer a smile.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 27 2005, 06:32 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 12:05 AM)

"I have devoted most of my life to the study of the blade, don't worry about me in battle." Radont said with a grin.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 06:44 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 27 2005, 12:32 AM)

"I have devoted most of my life to the study of the blade, don't worry about me in battle." Radont said with a grin.

Loranna raises her eyebrows. "I thought worrying about everyone in battle was my job," she says dryly, the corners of her lips turning upwards.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 27 2005, 06:45 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 09:32 PM)

"I have devoted most of my life to the study of the blade, don't worry about me in battle." Radont said with a grin.

“Skill with a blade is never enough,” Teleran said. “I’m skilled with many and I still seem to find my opponent’s blades often enough anyway. 'Sides I’ll bet some of the vampires have devoted several lifetimes to the study of the blade. Magic is more fun though, maybe none of them bothered.”

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 27 2005, 07:19 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 12:44 AM)

Loranna raises her eyebrows. "I thought worrying about everyone in battle was my job," she says dryly, the corners of her lips turning upwards.

"I see I will have to explain myself earlier than I had hoped, so be it," said the Imperial gravely. "When I was young growing up in Cyrodiil I had dreams of joining the mages guild. I would practice for hours each day in hopes of getting accepted as soon as I was old enough. My younger brother had the same dream and would practice with me, we were inseperable, where ever I went he would follow. One night I wandered down an unknown trail in search of adventure, I was sure my magick skills would be powerful enough for whatever I came across. Naturally my brother followed me, anxious to see what I was cabable of. We came across a group of three vampires, they weren't the kind that wanted to be turned back into normal folk, they reveled in their state of undead and brought horror to any that passed their way, including children." Radont pauses and takes a deep breath before continuing.

"I was frozen with fear, my mouth hung open and I couldn't move my mouth to utter a spell. My brother saw my fear and tried to stop the advancing vampires... they laughed as they slaughtered him. My fear turned to rage as I threw fire at them but it wasn't powerful enough, all it managed to do was anger them. I tried to run but they overtook me, cutting into me with their swords. I didn't move so they got bored and left, they had had their fun at the expense of my brother. My parents died a year later later and I joined the Imperial Legion, swearing off of magick and determined to hunt any undead for the rest of my life. For every vampire I've killed I have saved someone. And every vampire that gets cured is another brother, daughter, mother, or father that gets to return home. I still have the scar from my first encounter with a vampire."

Radont turns his back to the group and removes his armor and shirt. On his back stretching from his right shoulder down to his left hip ran a deep rope textured scar. Radont puts his shirt back on and armor.

"That scar reminds me to keep living."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 07:29 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 27 2005, 01:19 AM)

Loranna feels her ears turn slightly red; she had spoken in gentle jest and in so doing seemed to have brought up painful memories in Radont.

"I'm sorry dear," she says quietly, her expression sympathetic; no wonder the Imperial knight had taken an interest in the party's exploits.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 27 2005, 07:34 AM

“So… what happens if you get paralyzed and can’t use your sword?” Teleran bit his tongue when he realized what a poor choice of words that was given Radont’s tale. "Ah, I mean to say that you can protect yourself from some things with magic that you can't with a sword."

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 27 2005, 08:18 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 01:29 AM)

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 27 2005, 01:34 AM)

"When I cannot use my blade anymore then it will be time for me to throw off this mortal coil and join my brother again"

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 08:24 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 27 2005, 02:18 AM)

"Think nothing of it," Radont says with a warm smile, "you have seen on my back the reason I do not need to be reminded of the event, it does me good to talk about it and I thank you for your patience."

"When I cannot use my blade anymore then it will be time for me to throw off this mortal coil and join my brother again"

"Teleran does have a point, Radont," Loranna says as gently as she can manage. "We've more than just our physical strength and there are a number of dangers that can't be stopped by a blade or a shield. I can understand you not wanting to rely on magic after your experiences, but please do consider letting the healer cure you of things like paralysis if you get so stricken in battle. If you were drowning I wouldn't hesitate to use whatever I had on hand to save you; would you begrudge me if I used my magic then?"

She gives a hopeful smile.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 27 2005, 08:29 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 11:18 PM)

"Think nothing of it," Radont says with a warm smile, "you have seen on my back the reason I do not need to be reminded of the event, it does me good to talk about it and I thank you for your patience."
"When I cannot use my blade anymore then it will be time for me to throw off this mortal coil and join my brother again"

“I believe I know of another who thinks like that,” Teleran said slowly. ‘Don’t you dare compare him to me! Can I help him throw off his coil? Let me drain him dry. Yes, tear him apart...’ The voice trailed off into incoherent mutterings that Teleran willed into silence.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 27 2005, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 02:24 AM)

Randont mused over the words then nodded "Your words have wisdom in them, I will accept any healing spells you throw my way but I refuse to use magick myself." Radont smiles shakily and finds a seat.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 27 2005, 08:38 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 26 2005, 11:36 PM)

Randont mused over the words then nodded "Your words have wisdom in them, I will accept any healing spells you throw my way but I refuse ot use magick myself." Radont smiles shakily and finds a seat.

“Then take the amulet. It’s not poison,” Teleran laughs. He stops suddenly and asks Loranna. “Is it?”

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 08:42 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 27 2005, 02:38 AM)

“Then take the amulet. It’s not poison,” Teleran laughs. He stops suddenly and asks Loranna. “Is it?”

"It's a Turn Undead amulet," Loranna says, giving Teleran a bit of an odd, though fond, look. "It's only poison if you happen to be undead yourself, and no one here meets that description."

"It's up to Radont if he wants one," Loranna continues. "I can cast the spell myself to protect myself or others, I just figured it wouldn't hurt to have additional sources of the spell on hand."

Posted by: sjvan0 Apr 27 2005, 08:47 AM

Frostien clanked into the Dirty Muskrat. No longer dressed in his fine clothing, he was now a glowing mass of enchanted armour. His silver cuirass would strike fear in the hearts (or whatever they have) of the undead scum. His ebony gauntlets looked as though they would burst into flames at any moment, and his glass shield seemed to absorb all the released magicka in the room. His mithril greeves and boots would help him run and jump better than ever before, and his pouldrons bolstered both his strength and his skill with an axe. Finally, his helm was constantly healing him, bit by bit.

"Now," he said to the group, his voice muffled by the helm "When will we be leaving for Balmora? I want to actually use my new equipment as I am now 10 000 gold pieces in debt. Here's hoping that the lead I have turns out to be true, otherwise I may be in trouble."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 08:59 AM

QUOTE(sjvan0 @ Apr 27 2005, 02:47 AM)

Loranna finds herself amazed at Frostien's new, eclectic, magical armor. "Impressive," she says with a smile. "We should be leaving for Balmora very soon, soon as Slyvos is finished preparing the Turn Undead amulets and I whip up another batch of healing potions for our newer members."

"Thus far, the basic plan is to scout Balmora as quietly as possible, then get Illidan out by whatever means seem easiest," Loranna continues. "As for taking out the vampires themselves ... we'll see how likely that looks when we get there. Those three we faced earlier were pretty tough and I don't fancy taking on a dozen or so at once of similar power."

Not to mention, Loranna thinks to herself, did she really relish attacking people who had once been their allies, but given the attitude of the three vampires they fought at the witches' cave, Loranna strongly suspects any former treaties were off.

"And as for your debt Frostien dear," Loranna adds with a smile, "once Illidan is safely returned we'll see about helping you pay that off. I can donate an empty soul gem or three to help you make any excursion into dangerous dungeons worth your while, regrdless of the treasure there."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 27 2005, 10:19 AM

Solunastra, Daggerfall:

"Don't try to manipulate me, you're not any good at it," Mirea said loftily. "How much will you give me not to tell Ciel what you're planning?"

"Mirea..." Tris said. "Did I mention your hair looks especially nice today?"

"Pathetic," Mirea said, shaking her head of bright red curls. "I'll help you because it's funny, not because you tried to pressure me into it."

"I don't think Ciel will see the humor in it, that's all."

"I don't see why not," Mirea said. "I think the thought of you getting yourself killed over something this stupid is very funny."

"I never knew you cared," Tris said.

Doll giggled almost noiselessly.

"So, are we set?" Tris said. "You both know what you need to do?"

"You are the mastermind, Mister Gaerington," Doll said, giggling again.

Tris grinned. "Jester's Day: Twenty-eighth Rain's Hand, a day that will long live in infamy... Herwyn Brand, it's payback time!"

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 10:31 AM

Meanwhile ...

All preperations were complete; it was time to head back to Ald Raathim and arrange for a boat to Freetown, there to make their way across Vvardenfell to Balmora. Loranna's flying potions would prove to be helpful for traveling swiftly once the party reached Vvardenfell.

Loranna was not too worried about scouting Balmora once they got there; she actually knew the city somewhat thanks to her time as Incarnate and between the various party members there was enough stealth, mundane and magical, to go around. What they'd find was still a little uncertain, but Loranna puts worrying about that out of her mind.

Distributing healing potions, disease-curing potions, and undead-scaring amulets, Loranna leads the party back to the Mage Guild; with luck and a favorable wind they should be on Vvardenfell before a day had passed.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 27 2005, 10:54 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 06:01 PM)

"Ah, Vvardenfell..." Dante said, taking a deep breath. "Any thoughts on how we get inside Balmora once we arrive?" He asked simply, to nobody in particular.

Posted by: sjvan0 Apr 27 2005, 11:13 AM

Frostien stepped into the small entrance hall, and was greeted by a young bosmer.

"Are you Frostien, by any chance?" the teen said, looking at the hulking mass of enchantments.

"Yes..." Frostien replied, his voice tinny and muffled by the helm, which covered all but the eyes.

"Then I have a message for you." the young mer said, handing a piece of paper covered in scribbled words.

Frostien began to read it, his gauntlets singeing the paper.

Frostien

While it is unfortunate that the lead turned out to be false, there is a more pressing task that requires your skills. For many days, we have received word only from the Vivec branch, and we need you to investigate, as the Vivecians can spare no one.. We have not heard from the Balmora branch for the longest, so that shall be your initial destination.

Undil

Forstien let the note fall to the ground, and turned to the others.

"It seems that I now have another reason to travel to Balmora with you."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 27 2005, 11:23 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 27 2005, 04:54 AM)

"Ah, Vvardenfell..." Dante said, taking a deep breath. "Any thoughts on how we get inside Balmora once we arrive?" He asked simply, to nobody in particular.

"That's still a bit flexible," Loranna says absently. "With my flying potions and some invisibility spells we could literally drop right into Balmora wherever we want, or if we wanted I suppose we could approach through the Odai or something ... we'll decide when we get someone to scout the city out."

QUOTE(sjvan0 @ Apr 27 2005, 05:13 AM)

"Hmm?" Loranna asks, picking up the note, "what's going on Frostien?"

A quick glance at the note tells Loranna that she can make the travel plans even simpler; she makes a mental note to start keeping more up to date on what mage guilds are still active and not. Why, they might even have more than just Vivec up and running by now ...

"Well," she says with a slight smile to Frostien, "after this little trip we'll have quite the story to tell the guild ... now let's go ask about what guilds in Vvardenfell are still up and running ..."

Posted by: w0nders Apr 27 2005, 03:40 PM

Balmora-

Every night, an hour before dawn, the vampires would reside to their chosen homes and buildings. Except some…some vampires stayed up longer, they were the ones who set the traps, who fortified the walls, and blockaded the gates. These were the creatures that would often guard the manor square, where the Bhlaalhu council hall is found. And these were the vampires that the council trusted most.

The figures ran through the town, their heavy ebony armour clanking loudly as they did. Levers were pulled, trip wires were tied, and miscellaneous objects were suspended in the air. It was like this every night in Balmora, and tonight was no different.

After their jobs were done, the figures returned to the town center. Where the bridges were located, where they would enjoy their ten or so odd minutes of relaxation outside, before they would return indoors. Faceless figures, nothing more…hidden by their helmets, except one. One vampire…he was Dunmer, and his armour had one significant difference. A soft fabric was thrown over one of his pauldrons; this fabric bore the symbol of the red coda.

He was Ravone, captain of the ebony guard…Balmora’s finest.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 07:32 AM

Caldera

The Imperial town and accompanying ebony mine had survived the eruption of Red Mountain, and the assault of the Azurites, well enough to be reclaimable with only major effort instead of herculean. Not that any part of Vverdenfell had escaped devestation during the rise and fall of the Blue Dawn, but Caldera's Mage Guild had managed to stay intact, and with no more Azurites to worry about - and most of the monsters that remained on Vvardenfell in other cities - Caldera was the logical place to begin rebuilding. The sooner the ebony mine was back in operation, after all, the better; ask any loyal citizen of the Empire.

The fact that Caldera was somewhat centrally located on the west side of Red Mountain and thus a good place to get up and running for future rebuilding efforts was also a factor, or so Loranna told herself as the party showed up and made their way to the outskirts of town.

Not that Caldera looked like it used to just yet; the town was obviously far less populated than was normal and not all of the damage done by the Azurites was fully repaired, but for the party's concerns, Caldera was fully operational.

Loranna's plan was simple; from here, the party would start making their way to Balmora. A few moments thought about how best to approach the city let Loranna realize that the vampires had probably set up some sort of alarms or traps to compensate for their inability to be out during the day, so she looks to her companions, asking "Who wants to be the point men for the scouting effort? They've had a month to set themselves up, after all."

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 07:41 AM

"I will, i've er...been there before,"Tohe said. "With the vampires around...." He scratched the back of his head nervously. "It was night though, so the defenses and stuff mighta not been up then. Besides, i got the Shadow as my birth sign, should anything happen to any potions or such you supply me with, i got a inborn invisibility."

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 28 2005, 07:42 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 01:32 AM)

"This bulky armor doesn't lend itself well to moving quietly," says the knight, "and my main function in the Imperial Legion was combat, not stealth."

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 07:45 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 03:02 PM)

"I can go." Dante said, letting one pauldron fall to the ground. "Just need to get most of this armour off." After a short while, he stood in his commoners clothes, the only form of armour being his boots and gauntlets.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 07:47 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 27 2005, 10:32 PM)

Caldera

“I’m always up for taking point,” Teleran replied. “I don’t suppose I can try out the amulet while scouting though. They probably would be inside right now though, so there wouldn't be much to see."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 07:56 AM

Loranna hands Telearan, Tohe, and Dante potions of invisibility and speed, saying "All right; you three go ahead then while the rest of us follow. We'll wait a half mile outside of Balmora for you to finish scouting the area. Last I recall, there weren't many vampires compared to the size of Balmora itself, but who knows how many more they've made since then, or what they've set up. Good luck, and if you look like you're going to get caught get out of there; if we don't hear from you in three hours we'll move in."

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 08:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 03:26 PM)

Dante bowed to Loranna briefly, before heading off down the path. Slowly unscrewing the lid to his invisibility potion.

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 08:06 AM

Tohe pockete dthe potions and hurried after Dante. Pulling out a invisibility potion and uncorking it. He left the cork in, loosely, so it could easily be pulled off when Balmora actually came into view.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 08:10 AM

Teleran followed after Dante and pulled his own potion, detect creature, out of his pack and placed it with the invisibility potion. He waited to use them until they were closer to Balmora.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 08:13 AM

At the half mile mark, Loranna waits with the others while the scouts go on ahead.

She looks to Radont. "Hurry up and wait," she says, flashing a sardonic grin. "Motto of soldiers and adventurers everywhere."

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 28 2005, 08:19 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 02:13 AM)

"Ain't that the truth" agrees Radont. "The only thing I could help them do is set off every alarm the vamps have. Still... It'd be nice to have the entire Imperial Legion here."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 08:21 AM

Teleran drank his pair of potions and headed towards Balmora trying not to stir the ground too much as he moved. He felt those who were staying behind fade from perception as he headed towards Balmora, not straying too far away from the others scouting.

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 08:22 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 28 2005, 02:19 AM)

"Ain't that the truth" agrees Radont. "The only thing Icould help them do is set off every alarm the vamps have. Still... It'd be nice to have the entire Imperial Legion here."

"Thats generally Teleran's job..." Reichi commented with a smirk.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 08:24 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 28 2005, 02:22 AM)

"Thats generally Teleran's job..." Reichi commented with a smirk.

Loranna gives a somewhat teeth-baring grin. "They're good men, one and all," she says. "If anyone can clear a path for us through whatever traps are there, it's them."

She tactfully does not mention that she tends to consider Teleran and Dante trap magnets.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 08:29 AM

Balmora-

Dante downed his potion also, and made his way closer towards the town. Shortly, the town's banner could be seen waving lazily in the morning breeze. And shortly after that, the red river became more visible.

The arc leading into the city was blocked by large planks of wood, nailed together in the shape of crosses. With other rubble and debree with it, not to mention the thorn like plants entangling them. A small leaf fell from behind the arc.

Dante looked to the river, the arcs going over it seemed rather defenseless. He turned to his companions and began speaking, not entirely sure that they were even there. "I'm going to head up through the river, you guys should probably work on clearing all the stuff out of the archway." He said, stepping into the shallow water, shivering as he felt it's thickness.

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 08:34 AM

"Yeah, they surely won't notice the noise," Tohe said sarcastically. "Anyone would hear that, we can just hop the walls." He took out a speed potion. "Running jump."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 08:40 AM

Teleran headed to the wall west of the river and traveled parallel to it trying to sense where the vampires closest to the walls were and seeking points where the vcampires were least, while noting where there were the greatest numbers of them were situated.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 08:51 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 28 2005, 04:04 PM)

"Yeah, they surely won't notice the noise," Tohe said sarcastically. "Anyone would hear that, we can just hop the walls." He took out a speed potion. "Running jump."

"Ok..." Dante said, watching as Tohe took out the potion. "You do that, try not to land on any pikes or something." He added, with a smirk...he continued up the river, slowly sifting through it.

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 28 2005, 04:10 PM)

Nearest to Teleran, were the crowded buildings of the manor buildings. Where Volrina, the largest assortment of ebony guard, and most important, Illidan were situated. The taverns nearby were also largely populated, as was the fighter's guild. Other buildings had small groups of vampires squatting in them.

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 08:57 AM

Tohe shrugged, before heading over to where Teleran was. While Reichi found Teleran's trap magnetism to be amusing at times, Tohe regarded him with caution because of it. He had enough scars as it was. He cautiously approached Teleran. "So, what do you see?" Tohe asked.

Tohe briefly wondered how Dante planned to get out of the Odai once in town, its not like the cement siding the town had put on the sides of the river that ran through had alot of traction, or were low enough to climb easily.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 09:06 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 27 2005, 11:57 PM)

Teleran motioned for Tohe to remain quiet, and hidden, oblivious to the futility of such gestures when invisible. He headed into town past the smaller buildings and gave a wide berth to the larger building as he walked through the upper levels of Balmora past Nerano Manor, trying to determine more exactly the locations of the vampires in the Council Manor.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 09:17 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 28 2005, 04:36 PM)

The lower levels of the Council Manor was mostly filled with Ravone, and members of the ebony guard. Many had thrown off their helms, and the odd pauldron. And were pretty much relaxing.

The upper levels were filled with the more important vampires, Volrina included. They were all in their own respected chambers.
--------------

Dante continued up the river, when he sudenly felt something coil up his leg. He stopped dead in his tracks. What could that be? He thought to himself, reaching down and ensaring it. Wonder what it is... Dante tore it out of the water and immediately had to cover his mouth.

It was an intestine...

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 09:23 AM

Teleran turned back after scouting out the various manors. His potions were wearing off as he exited Balmora. When he met back up with the group that hade remained behind he gave a brief description of the structure of the vampire population. Most of the vampires were staying in the manors, with a large concentration of them on the base floor of the Council Manor and a more scattered number throughout its upper levels. He still didn’t know where they might be holding Illidan, unfortunately detect potions didn't let him tell one vampire from another, or even vampire from cattle.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 28 2005, 09:31 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 28 2005, 03:23 AM)

Radont grins at the thought of purging Balmora from the undead pestilence that has overtaken the city.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 28 2005, 09:32 AM

Dante trudged back up the path towards Loranna and Radont, alot of the colour drained from his face. "They...they have a...corpse dam..." Dante said shakily.

Posted by: Aki Apr 28 2005, 09:36 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 28 2005, 03:32 AM)

Dante trudged back up the path towards Loranna and Radont, alot of the colour drained from his face. "They...they have a...corpse dam..." Dante said shakily.

"Really? MAde a damn out of their own people? Wacky," Reichi commented, yawning. "Afterall, Azurite corpses woulda gone *poof*, right?"

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 09:38 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 28 2005, 03:36 AM)

"Really? MAde a damn out of their own people? Wacky," Reichi commented, yawning. "Afterall, Azurite corpses woulda gone *poof*, right?"

"Aye - those then are their victims from after Hogithum," Loranna says grimly, touching Dante's shoulder reassuringly.

"Teleran, did you keep a count of how many vampires overall? And in those manors?" Loranna asks, plans starting t oform in her head. "I'm not really concerned about the average vampire; it's the elites I worry about, and Illidan."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 09:51 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 12:38 AM)

“Not an exact count and I stayed mostly to the upper district of Balmora. A pretty large group, about a dozen I’d say for the lower room in the Council Manor with a little less than that number on the upper floors. The rest are dispersed in the other manors and a few other buildings. There are three vampires in one of the bigger building by the entrance.” Teleran paused. “Judging from that district there’s probably approaching a hundred in the whole city, all indoors at the moment of course. If we knew where he was we could skip this whole mess and just go there and get Illidan.”

‘Why avoid a battle? Let us tear into their ranks, rip the flesh from their bones and watch it become dust. They are foul monsters, abominations. They are worthy of death,’ the voice cajoled him.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 10:19 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 28 2005, 03:51 AM)

Loranna considers. "Yeah; that would make this a whole lot easier," she says, frowning. "Thing is, they'd be planning on being attacked in the daytime; whereever they're congregated, we should expect a lot of traps set up. Also, remember - vampires don't sleep, so they'd be able to fight back as well."

Loranna thinks for a moment, then says " ... I don't think we're really ready for a full frontal assault, nor do we quite have the stealth to break into the buildings without finding ourselves facing a dozen vampires and alerting the city. However ... I do have some ideas, if we're willing to be a little patient."

"Think about it; the vampires will come out at night, though Illidan is likely to be kept under lock and key. We'll have a better idea of which building he is likely in if we wait and watch at night. Also, I'm guessing the vampires still need to find victims; a hundred vampires is a lot of fangs to feed, and they've only had a month to search for new cattle. They're likely to send out hunting parties, which means there's fewer vampires in the city during the night itself."

"So, what about this? We camp out far enough away to avoid being seen, but keep an invisible watcher on the city; I can do that through magic. Any hunting parties that head out, we quietly beat up; there's a few vampires taken care of. Near dawn then is our time to attack, if not this next dawn then the one after that; catch the vampires right when they're most concerned about the coming sun and they'll be more likely to run when attacked, seeking the nearest shelter. We scatter them so they're not so clumped together, take down their elites and get Illidan out of here. A day or two of such tactics and we should be able to meet the vampires on our terms instead of theirs, convince them that Balmora isn't safe anymore ..."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 28 2005, 10:27 AM

“Sounds like a good idea,” Teleran said. “So where do we lie in wait? And how long until sundown and we get to start slaying vampires?”

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 28 2005, 10:27 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 28 2005, 04:19 AM)

"That seems like a tactically sound plan you have there. Will we all be enjoying the killing of the hunting parties?" Radont asks hopefully

Posted by: Loranna Apr 28 2005, 10:42 AM

"I think everyone will get a chance at some vampires," Loranna says, giving a tight smile. "Sunset is in a few hours; we'll use that time to set up our own camp - someplace where we can quietly tail any hunting parties. As for assaulting Balmora itself ... if not this upcoming dawn then the next; we may see something if we let the vampires play for a night that will give us a little edge."

"If anyone wants to voulnteer to be the spy watching the city invisibly, speak up, otherwise I'll take that job. I've a few tricks of my own I can use to keep up all night. The rest of us will watch for the hunting parties and take them out; I suggest setting marks to the campsite for now just to make getting back from a soree easier, and I can check in periodically to heal anyone who needs it."

"If anyone's got any further suggestions, please let me know; we're going to give these vampires a small taste of what it feels like to be the stalked instead of the stalker."

===

Balmora was built near hilly and mountainous terrain; it wasn't too hard to find a place where the party could watch over the city without calling attention to themselves, epsecially since the group had magic on hand to hide themselves.

As night fell, the vampires of Balmora came out to go about their business; the streets rung with the echoes of undead pelasures and whimpering cattle, and as Loranna had guessed, no fewer than four groups of vampires headed out in the first hour or so of the night, each with three or four vampires armed with clubs and maces and other implements for knocking people senseless. The vampires split up, heading along paths known to themselves in search of prey.

Under the cover of night, the party come to rescue Illidan smiled to themselves; people broke off to take care of the vampire hunting parties, while Loranna floated down invisibly to do some more spying, hoping to determine where Illidan was being kept.

---

OOC: To give more people a chance to do some stuff, we now have some obliging Vampire Cattle Herder NPCs to beat up There are four or five groups of vampires, each with three or four vampires in them. Said vampires are armed with at least some sort of knock you senseless weapon for taking prisoners, armored in at least decent armor, and are of moderate to high challenge depending on your personal taste.

One group is the Orc, Khajiit, and Dunmer which w0nders introduced in an earlier post; the other groups can be whatever people want. If you want, have your characters go after a hunting party; Loranna will have provided flying potions to catch up with the vampires and healing and disease curing potions to help keep you intact.

We will be rescuing Illidan sometime this Thursday night; hope to see you for the big finale to the Balmora raid

Loranna

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 28 2005, 12:01 PM

Radont's eyes narrowed as he saw the hunting party emerge from the city. He would wait for them to get closer before making a move, no sense in alerting the whole city. His blood boiled as he watched the hunting party pass by his location, there were 4 of them in a tight group. They were well outside the city now and Radont leapt from his hiding place and sprinted at the undead atrocities.

The vampires turned, not out of alarm, but out of curiosity. They smiled, this would be an easy hunt, the prey was coming to them.

Just before reaching the group, Radont unsheathed his sword and swung at the first vampire he came to. The undead minion was quick and raised his shield to deflect the blow. Radont reeled but regained his balance as the other three vampires spread out, encircleing the steel clad knight. They didn't join the battle, one vampire was more than a match for any mortal.

Radont swung again, the vampire easily stepped to the side, laughing as the Imperial hit air. Growing frusterated, Radont swung again, when the vampire side stepped he smashed his shield into the face of the undead casuing him to stumble backwards. The knight used this opportunity to step forward and stab his blade through the heart of his enemy. He removed it quickly and disconnected the vampires head from his body.

The other three vampires jumped at once, latching on to Radont and dragging him to the ground. He landed with a crash and quickly tried to roll away from the pile. It worked, but the vampires were on him smashing him with their maces and hissing. He deflected most blows and gave some up to his armor. A vampire smashed his helmed head from behind with his wicked looking steel mace. Radont staggered forward and fell. He shook the daze off and moved just as a club weilding vampire was bearing down on him. Rolling to one side, the blunt weapon stuck harmlessly in the ground.

Radont quickly stood and dodged another blow, blocked with his shield and caught a mace to the side of his helm. The helm bent, deeply lacerating his face as blood flowing freely to the ground. Anohter vampire smashed his steel mace against the Imperials face, sending him reeling to the ground.

He was just about to give up when he remembered his brother, the image of him being slaughtered burned in his memory. With renewed vigor he rose, his lips curled into a snarl as he ran at the trio of vampires again. This time he was sure of his mark as anohter vampire head sailed through the air, before taking time to even breathe Radont had sheathed his sword in the chest of another. The vampire crumpled to the ground.

Radont turned to face the last of the hunting party. His face was swollen, his eye was black and blood streamed from his many deep cuts onto his armor. The vampire ran at him, Radont threw down his shield and dodged the attack, countering with a swing of his sword that removed the vampires arm. Radont grabbed the vampire by the throat looking him directly in the eyes.

For the first time the vampire felt a twinge of fear as he stared into the piercing eyes of the noble knight. Radont threw the vampire on the ground and drove his blade between the eyes of the undead menace. Removing his damaged helm and taking his sword back he looked at the dead vampire with rage "For you Curoth, my brother," Radont slammed his helm into the face of the undead hearing a satisfying crack of bones.

He stood, breathing heavily and bleeding severely. He ran triumphantly back to his hiding spot waiting for the big battle to begin as he quaffed a healing potion.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:58 AM

Balmora, Early Evening

A Dunmer vampire trudged out of Nerano Manor, lugging a rather dead Breton man on his shoulders. "Stupid cattle, dying on me like that," he swore, fangs bared. "He looked young and fresh enough to have some blood in him; how was I to know any different?"

An Altmer vampire, dressed in the finest outfit Balmora's now-abandoned clothier shop had to offer, followed the laden Dunmer, smirking. "Well if you bothered to keep track of which cattle had been fed on heavily you wouldn't be taking out garbage now," he said, his voice silky smooth. "Though I admit it was worth seeing you get chewed out over it."

"Fetcher," the Dunmer snarled. "What's the big deal anyway?" he asked as both vampires walked to the Odai. "The last few nights the hunting parties have been doing pretty well; not like one less cattle's gonna break us ..."

"My dear friend, never throw food out someone else might want to eat," the Altmer smiled. "It's rude and thoughtless. Oh well; so we reinforce the dam a bit."

The Dunmer grumbled, looking down at the blood-red Odai. With a grunt he tossed the Breton's corpse into the river. The dead man sank after a moment, having been weighed down beforehand.

"And that's that," the Altmer said, brushing imaginary dust off of his sleeve. "So, back to trying to recoup your losses from last night, or have you come to see the folly of gambling yet?"

The Dunmer snarled once more and stalked off, leaving the Altmer to smile smugly. "Poor lad; I blame his upbringing for his attitude ..."

Neither Dnumer nor Altmer were aware that they had been watched by an invisible ashen-skinned Nord woman, who right now floated away with clenched teeth and a sick heart ...

===

After the first hour or two Loranna had ruled out any of the manors as Illidan's prison; by watching carefully and by using Detect Creature she had noted that the manors had a lot of traffic, both coming and going and inside the manors themselves. Heck, a couple of the manors had their doors left open to let in the night breeze; between the open doors and the relaxed posture of the guards she was able to see, it didn't seem likely that any prisoners were being kept in the manors - well, any vampiric prisoners, anyway. Mortal prisoners, on the other hand ...

Loranna heard the occasional whimper of human cattle, and had to keep herself from trying something foolish; even with her magic she wasn't ready to take on seventy or eighty vampires all at once. The cattle, unfortunately, were kept in the manors as near as she could tell, which bothered her; she didn't like the thought of people being kept as feeding slaves and found herself growing more and more inclined to do more than just get Illidan out of Balmora.

Patience, Loranna told herself. Wait for the others to finish off the hunting parties, then wait for near dawn tonight or tomorrow and make a move - a calculated one, not a random one. But first, find Illidan.

The manors not seeming likely, Loranna turned her attention to the other places Teleran mentioned; she ended up homing in on the guard towers after a bit of further investigation.

The North Tower had two vampires in it, from the evidence the Detect Creature spell offered. Neither seemed confined judging by the way they moved around.

The East Tower also had two vampires in it, who moved around restlessly from what she could tell. Not that tower, then.

The West Tower had two vampires again. Loranna moved on after a cursory moment of watching via magic.

The South Tower ... had three vampires, one of which seemed to be in the lowest level. Loranna waited for many long moments, invisibly watching; two vampires moved around, while the third seemed to be mostly stationary.

Got him, Loranna thought with a grim smile. It wasn't one hnudred percent certain but it was a very promising sign.

The night was still relatively young; Loranna returned to camp to check in on anyone who had returned by now, offer additional healing as needed, and pass on what she had learned. She would return to watch Balmora again shortly, to start planning the party's next move.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 01:26 AM

Wayrest. Jester's day minus one: Mirea

As cautious men went, Herwyn Brand, Queen Elysana's newest spymaster, scored maybe eight points out of ten. Not nearly enough to keep him alive for long in Elysana's employ. Why, looked at in that light, they were even doing him a favor, by showing him his weak points!

First of all, Herwyn Brand wore the Spymaster's Ring, which protected the wearer from poison and magic. That was one point. He slept most of the time not in his new riverside manor but in his bedroom in Elysana's new palace, a featureless dome crafted to be inaccessible to Void Rangers by Sheogorath himself. That was five points right there. He never took the ring off, another point. And, lastly, he cast magical wards on his bedroom door - there were no windows anywhere in Elysana's palace - when he went to sleep. Another couple of points.

On the flip side, he did leave the door unguarded for the servants to clean when he was out during the day. And he didn't search his room thoroughly before he cast the wards at night. Two points off. Plenty for an enterprising young Bosmer like Mirea to use to her advantage.

What was that? Eight? Seven? Mirea had lost count.

Tris's rules for the Jester's day prank were simple. No using the Void, nothing but what any ordinary person could do through wits, stealth, and magic. Getting that ring will be hard, Tris had warned her. Are you sure you're up to it? And Mirea had tossed her bright red hair and said, If Rajhin can steal a tattoo from the Empress Kintyra's neck while she was sleeping, I can steal the Spymaster's ring from Herwyn Brand.

All it took was a little patience. A lot of patience. Herwyn Brand worked too late, he came to bed tired. He should know better. Tired men made mistakes.

Herwyn sat down heavily on the side of the bed, causing the rope framework to dip alarmingly towards Mirea's nose. He didn't read a book to relax; he didn't pour himself a drink. Just one little tired sigh as he slid into bed.

Mirea uncurled from beneath his bed like a snake in its frozen hole checking out springtime.

She leaned close and studied Herwyn's sleeping face. Mirea was terrible at judging the age of humans; she guessed this one was less than halfway to the grave. In reality Herwyn was a young man, especially for someone who had been a Battlemage before becoming spymaster for the kingdom of Wayrest.

He looked older when he slept. Awake, his expression was usually impassive, even bland. Asleep, the many worries of his life crowded 'round too thick. The sleeping man furrowed his brow, he tossed, he even moaned in his sleep sometimes. He had lived through King Helseth of Morrowind's torture chambers. And worse than that, Leseth had taken him, ungently, through the Void itself. Herwyn had never shaken its chill.

Mirea began to sing, at first almost inaudibly, then louder, her voice seeping into his dreams like the smell of summer grass. It was a little song Bosmer used to calm Bosmer babies, who were a hundred times more obstinate than Breton babies. It was the song Mirea used to sing squirrels to sleep when she wanted to steal their nuts, the song she used to put a momma bird to sleep on the nest so she could steal an egg. There was no magic in the song - spells didn't work inside the courts of Wayrest - just a sweetness like a memory from childhood.

Herwyn's features finally relaxed. His fists, which had been clenched, fell open, and he turned onto his back and started to snore gently. The hand with the ring dangled loose off the side of the bed. Mirea could have dipped his hand in warm water, if this had been a slightly different joke. Instead, she prayed the ring was loose enough on his finger to slide off.

It was.

Mirea slipped the counterfeit ring Tris had made in its place. The counterfeit was enchanted too, to fog Herwyn's judgement and make him less likely to notice things amiss. The Void Rangers would be watching Herwyn constantly during the next 48 hours, to make sure their harmless joke didn't turn dangerous through the attack of a third party.

Mirea slid back under the bed, and waited for dawn.

"You owe me," Mirea said. "I had to spend all day in there. I even took a bath so no one could smell me. You owe me so big that I don't even know what you owe me. You can start by kissing my perfect hiney and I'll let you know when I think of the rest."

She wasn't kidding.

"Full moon's a few weeks early this month," Tris remarked.

Posted by: Lord Sephirus Apr 29 2005, 03:00 AM

Cyrcius was riding along with the group when he came to a dicision. He would deliver his message now, when he was not needed, and rejoin the group later. Bidding farewell to the rest of the party, he rode for a day before reaching the city he wanted. He entered, and walked up to a large stone building, preparing his words. He entered it and flashed a sign to the one visible guard, and the three hidden ones. One escorted him upstairs into an office, occupied by a massive Redguard. He turned and in a gravely voice said, "you are the one the Morrowind guild sent? What is the verdict on my brother?" "I am sorry to tell you this Guildmaster Sarkad," Cyrcius replied, "but he killed three of our men and Crazy-Legs will never be the same. We tried and excecuted him as doctrine dictates. He was out of control, and I barely was able to take him out. He fought like a man possesed, and with incredible speeds." The Redguard sighed, "I guess it was for the best" he said as his whole body seemed to sag, "he was growing distant from us all. Thank you for bringing the message personally though."
"It was the least I could do." Cyrcius said, then left the building without a word and went to rejoin the party.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 03:43 AM

Wayrest. Jester's Day, Evening: Doll

On days when there were no court parties he was obliged to attend, Herwyn Brand ate dinner alone, at a tavern near the Palace. Always at the same booth in the back. No one ever bothered him there. It was a good place to catch up on his reading.

Herwyn Brand's solitary meal was disrupted when a young girl slid onto the seat beside him.

"He's looking for me!" the girl said, grasping Herwyn's arm beneath the table. Her little hands were cold with fear. "He won't bother me if he sees I'm with someone."

She peered anxiously at the tavern door, then ducked back into the booth. She was young, maybe sixteen, but so small and slim she looked even younger. Something about her neat, but not extravagant clothes said she probably came from a well-to-do family of scholars and mages; little details, the way her collar was shaped, the amulet at her neck, the charm bracelet at her wrist.

A young man entered the tavern, throwing the door open with such violence that it banged against the wall behind him. He stalked in, searching the tables, then caught sight of the girl across the room. He gave Herwyn a hard stare, then left, clearly cowed by the older man's presence.

The girl's grip on Herwyn's arm relaxed.

"I'm so sorry," she said, noticing his pile of books and papers. "You're busy, I didn't mean to interrupt you. I should go, I think I can make it home now."

Their eyes met. Hers were black, almond-shaped, tilted and exotic against her white skin.

Posted by: Rhedd Apr 29 2005, 03:50 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 28 2005, 07:43 PM)

Wayrest. Jester's Day, Evening: Doll

The girl's grip on Herwyn's arm relaxed.

"I'm so sorry," she said, noticing his pile of books and papers. "You're busy, I didn't mean to interrupt you. I should go, I think I can make it home now."

Their eyes met. Hers were black, almond-shaped, tilted and exotic against her white skin.

"Not at all," Herwyn said, gathering up the papers on the table.

"If you're hungry, I'll buy you dinner. If you're not, give me a moment to finish mine. If you're in a hurry, well, my dinner can wait.

"Regardless, I think it'd be best if I saw you home. He didn't look the type to give up so easily."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 04:00 AM

Wayrest. Jester's day, late evening:

"Our friend's had a bit too much," Tris said. He was staggering himself, he and Alain, struggling to hold the weight of Herwyn Brand between them. Herwyn was only intermittently unconscious, but too soused to be alarmed. He had given Tris one look that told Tris he knew enough to know who he was with. Right now though, his eyes weren't focused on anything.

"Not my business," the Guild guide said. "Same price whether he's awake or not."

They stepped through the Guild gate together.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 29 2005, 04:16 AM

The vampire nearest the rear of this group wore the robe of a mage, and his staff shimmered with enchantment. A dagger flew through its throat. If the vampire heard the blade coming he did not show it. He fell without uttering a syllable.

The other vampires turned back to examine the body. They looked around at the surrounding darkness. Their home, their favored tool, it concealed something else something hunting them. A vampire in the center of the group gave a brief shout that ended in a gurgle as a companion’s short sword ran him through. The one whose sword it was looked on in disbelief as an ebony spear pinned him to the other.

The others fled. Running back along the road towards Balmora. They were greeted by an innocuous looking dagger, barely visible in the night. As they ran down the road towards it started glowing red heat flickering along the edges. A figure suddenly appeared behind the dagger, his blue eyes reflecting the lurid red light.

***

A vampire roused, the lone survivor, he had taken only minor injuries before being knocked out by a backhand blow from Teleran’s gauntlet, to see the one who had attacked their crouching nearby lit very well now by the light of a small fire. He wasn’t much, a stripling of an dark elf really; he wasn’t even paying proper attention, a foolish mistake. The vampire snapped forward to bite; the mer whirled, raising his arm to block; the vampire’s jaws closed on the Dunmer’s forearm. A moment later he was gasping for breath as a gauntleted hand bore him to the ground.

“So, you’re awake,” Teleran grinned maliciously. “I figured you didn’t need those anymore.” He said, indicating a small collection of what looked like fangs, vampire fangs. Noting the look of horror on the vampire’s face as he clenched his jaws to feel them missing, Teleran drew a blade from the fire and asked warmly, “What do you know about prisoners in Balmora? Other vampires?”

***

“Why? I mean I know it was a vampire, but that was-”

“What do you care about these abominations? Besides, it’s your fault we had to do that. If you had scouted the whole city we could have finished this yesterday.”

“But still, Loranna, she said she would-”

“And if she wasn’t able to find out, then what? I didn’t like doing that either; vampires are too …dusty for that to be properly entertaining. Not nearly as enjoyable as working with the living.”

“You bastard, that was-”

“Enough, go play hero and cure your friend, or don’t. I’ve given you what you wanted.”

“You didn’t even get any specifics-”

“Quiet moron!”

Teleran tried not to think about what lay behind him. Blood dripped down his arm from the bite as he headed back to Balmora.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 04:40 AM

Balmora-

It was that time of night again.

An hour before dawn, everything that wasn't dressed in ebony went back to their respected buildings. And the guards began to set the traps.

Posted by: sjvan0 Apr 29 2005, 04:55 AM

Frostien watched from his hiding place as the hunting party emerged from the northen gateway. He waited until they were a good distance away from the gate before striking. He leapt from behind the boulder, and in a single bound, he was on them. Despite being in full armour, his boots made him a near-blur, and where a Breton vampire once stood, there was now a screaming inferno. Frostien pulled his hand away, the gauntlet still flaming. The remaining vampires, a dunmer, khajiit, and an altmer, pounced. Frostien ducked as the khajiit flew over him, but was forced to the ground by te dunmer, dropping his shield. As the dunmer reared his head, preparing to bite Frostien's throat, he grabbed the vampire's neck with both hands and began to choke the unlife out of him. The only thing saving the dunmer from turning into a roast dish for the cliff racers was his natural fire resistance. The altmer, not wanting to lose a valuble asset, launched a fireball at the two struggling forms on the ground, sending the two flying. Frostien picked himself up off the ground and drew Soul's Bane. In the time it took to blink, the dunmer's head was on the ground. Frostien picked it up, and transformed it into a flaming projectile. Using the flat side of his axe, Frostien flung it into the khajiit, who promptly burst into flames, running around, screaming, just as his breton companion had done just a moment ago.

The two combatants sized each other up, and charged.

Frostien swung Soul's Bane, but found himself slicing air. He felt burning metal slice into his side, and turned to see the Altmer holding a flaming Daedric dagger, with a frost ball forming on his other hand. Frostien leapt to the side, feeling his feet being encased in solid ice. He landed on his stomach, and rolled as a small crater formed where his head had been a split second ago. He raised his hand, and a stream of flames emerged from his gauntlet. The Altmer's flesh bubbled and warped as the searing heat slowly got closer and closer. His feet were rooted to the ground, unable to move from fear. Finally, the flames engulfed him, and the burning corpse collapsed to the ground. Frostien stood up, retrieved his shield, and began to go to the others.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 05:13 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 28 2005, 10:40 PM)

Balmora-

It was that time of night again.

An hour before dawn, everything that wasn't dressed in ebony went back to their respected buildings. And the guards began to set the traps.

Balmora - A little before an hour before dawn

The party's hunting expiditions had all proven succesful; Balmora was now out about twenty vampires. Even the three best hunters the vampires had had fallen; Slyvos had recounted his encounter with the Orc, Khajiit, and Dunmer, how the Orc had managed to last even longer than the flame-resistant Dark Elf but fell to the former lich's magics just the same. Some of the party had been hurt, but nothing that a potion and a few restorative spells could not fix; Loranna makes sure everyone gets a Cure Disease spell cast on them, wether they took wounds or not.

"All right," Loranna says, looking to her companions. "between what I've seen and what Teleran found out, we can be pretty certain Illidan is in the South guard tower. So we keep it simple; we get down there, get into the tower as quickly as we can and get Illidan before the vampires figure out who we are and kill him out of spite. Once we've got him, we get out - through whatever vampires are stupid enough to get in our way."

She glances at her friends, especially Teleran and Slyvos; the latter gives Loranna a tight grin, which she returns.

"Everyone ready?" she asks, raising her hands to cast spells of levitation and invisibility on the party. "We'll be dropping in on them and knocking on the tower door - hard. Illidan returns to life tonight and Balmora returns to the hands of the living."

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 05:43 AM

"As ready as I'll ever be." Dante said, as the invisibility spell took effect. He floated over the town's wall, watching with concern as the ebony clad guardsmen went about their buisness.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 06:09 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 28 2005, 11:43 PM)

"As ready as I'll ever be." Dante said, as the invisibility spell took effect. He floated over the town's wall, watching with concern as the ebony clad guardsmen went about their buisness.

Loranna, having spied on Balmora earlier in the night, had an idea of the ebony guards' beats. She waited a moment, knowing that the guards would pass the tower and leave her a moment during which she could let the invisibility fade and not be seen on the roof.

Her moment comes, and Loranna alights on the top of the tower, an Open spell cast to unbar the door and a Telekenesis spell used to open it without stepping right up to it, to avoid surprises. She already has an Absorb Health spell prepared to silence a guard should one be right by the door.

The party had officially started.

Posted by: sjvan0 Apr 29 2005, 06:09 AM

Frostien leapt onto the wall, jumping over to the roof of the tower. He waited for the others to levitate over to him.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 06:17 AM

South tower-

Two vampires, which were standing guard more or less on the middle of the tower's levels, heard the trapdoor snap open. "Did you hear that?" One hissed to his companion.

"Yes. You should go check it out." The other snarled back.

"I'm not going up there alone...haven't you read that novel? Lonely guards usually get taken out without anyone else being alerted."

"That's not true..." The other retorted, defensively.

"Oh yeah? Well how about..."

The two guards kept arguing, in whisper quietness.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 06:26 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 12:17 AM)

Loranna watches as the trapdoor opens, her eyebrows raised in surprise. There was always a guard waiting at the door or window as you tried to sneak in; she'd heard enough stories from iniberated rogues and read enough thriller novels in her youth to know this simple fact of life. And it went double when the would-be infiltrator was a Nord; what were these vampire guards thinking?

Loranna levitates down into the tower, closing the trapdoor quietly and renewing her invisibility. Her companions would likely be following any minute once they saw the trapdoor open and close.

... Actually, given her companions, it was equally likely that there would be explosions outside any second now.

Loranna squelches a sigh and descends, hands raised to cast a spell ...

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 06:39 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 01:56 PM)

"Are you going to check or not?" Asked the one vampire.

"No." The other replied, flatly.

"Oh for the love of..."

Posted by: Rhedd Apr 29 2005, 06:45 AM

SOMEWHERE. Jester's day, the morning after:

Herwyn Brand was awoken by a scream.

No, there it was again, and it was more of a squeal, not a scream.

Where was he? The ceiling above was old, smokestained wood. The bed below him was creaky, lumpy, and completely unfamiliar. He was naked, and his head seemed to be having a heated argument with his stomach.

Another squeal from somewhere nearby, but definitely not someone in distress. It was followed by a giggle.

The room was small and quite dingy. Just a bed, a simple chair, and a nightstand... On the nightstand was a lovely vase holding a dozen red, all-too familiar roses, a bottle of fine champagne, a glass, and a note.

The note was tied to his ring, the Spymaster's Ring. Herwyn's eyes flashed to his bare finger and he cursed himself as a fool.

"Love, Tris" That's all the note said. Well, Herwyn could have guessed half of that without being told. His still spinning head and a memory that refused to become clear, however, made the other half worry him a bit.

The room's tiny, dirty window opened onto an enchanting view of a similarly dingy building, across a street, but leaning only inches away. He was upstairs, then, and the light looked like morning.

No clothes, nothing. None of his belongings were to be seen.

Herwyn shook his head in annoyance, mostly at himself, and spoke arcane words; Recall...

Nothing resulted but a slight increase in his splitting headache. His magicka had been damaged, by potion, he suspected.

He wrapped the not-quite-white bedsheet tightly around his waist and cautiously opened the door. A tight hallway fought for the honor of being dingier than the room.

As he was halfway down the hall, another door opened and a flabby, buxom woman in her pantaloons squeezed past him going the opposite direction.

"Lookin' good, dearie," she said, eyeing his bedsheet.

He wondered if it had been her he heard squealing. The imagined picture of it made his head hurt just that much worse.

Her accent was not one that sounded terribly familiar to him. Heaven only knew where he was, then. Probably not Wayrest City, although this was a brothel, and he'd never been to such a place before. He couldn't be sure.

With sudden horror, he smelled himself to see if he smelled like only himself. Not exactly, but the extra, delicate perfume that lingered on him was not the musky stench of this place.

He remembered the girl. The girl with the dark, almond eyes. So, she had been in on this... joke.

He was no longer worried for his safety, for he had remembered the date. It was just like Gaerington to play a childish, elaborate prank on the Queen's Spymaster on Jester's Day, but probably not a life-threatening one.

At the bottom of a rickety staircase, a common room opened. The scattered inhabitants were asleep or unconscious, but the swarthy barkeep frowned at Herwyn's sheet and muttered, "Bloody tomfoolery. Nobody wants to see that."

Herwyn's eye caught sight of a paper tacked to the wall behind the man, and the worry for his safety returned to him. It was an official paper, with an official seal. It was a business license, signed by the seneschal of Daggerfall City, Daggerfall, in the name of the King.

If one were the Spymaster of the Queen of Wayrest, and one found themselves penniless and dressed in nothing but a bedsheet, Daggerfall, sworn enemy of Wayrest, would not be the place one would want to be.

Not at all.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 06:49 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 12:39 AM)

"Are you going to check or not?" Asked the one vampire.

"No." The other replied, flatly.

"Oh for the love of..."

Loranna watches the two guards for a short moment, feeling somehow put upon. She had noticed the vampires in Balmora seemed pretty complacent overall but these two guards offended her on some vague, hard-to-define level.

Maybe I should just float past them ... Loranna considers. ... No; I'll need to break Illidan out and we'll have to take these jokers down sooner or later. might as well go with sooner.

As Loranna casts her spell, she remembers that it was Jester's Day this past night; she wonders if casting a super powerful Absorb Health and Strength custom spell on a couple of arguing vampires constitutes a decent enough jest to qualify for having done some sort of prank for the occasion. After all, vampires getting their lifeforce sucked out of them was funny - or at least ironic, no?

No explosions yet either ... she muses.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 06:54 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 02:19 PM)

One of the vampires made a pained gurgling noise, and dropped to the ground. The other vampire fell to one knee, most of the spell had hit his companion, seeing as he was standing behind him.

He woozily regained his balance and withdrew a steel shortsword. The vampire let out a loud scream and charged towards Loranna.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 07:02 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 12:54 AM)

"Dearie stop making such a fuss," Loranna mutters, making a mental note to work Calm or Silence effects into that spell for more effective use in stealth situations.

The vampire was hampered by his new weakness; he took an extra second to get himself up to charging speed and Loranna was able to deflect the shortsword off of her armor. She whispers the words to one of her custom touch-based Absorb Health spells and snares the vampire in a bearhug from behind.

"Relax and give me your life," Loranna says to the vampire, using her now increased strength to squeeze the air from his lungs.

Well, the explosions will be starting any minute now, she thinks as she finishes off the second vampire. Better get Illidan out of here now.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 07:14 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 02:32 PM)

Dante dropped through the trapdoor, he remained on the top floor of the tower however. He waited for a moment to continue onward.
------------------------

The second vampire dropped to the ground, lifelessly. Though his scream attracted the attention of a guard, who only checked in on Illidan and the third and final guard. Before leaving...a trivial mistake.

Meanwhile, basement-

Illidan sat in the corner, bound in chains. An ebony clad guard sat at a table sipping a mug of blood. His eyes never leaving him.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 07:21 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:14 AM)

Loranna hears the sounds of people entering from the top and bottom and hastily renews her invisibility. She moves away from the dead guards, ready to strike.

After a moment, she sees Dante and lowers her invisibility, raising her hand to tell him to keep his voice down. She points to the stairs, casting a weak levitation spell on Dante so they can float down without making a sound, and a sanctuary spell on them both out of habit.

Letting Dante take the lead, Loranna remains ready to cast, figuring if there's any other guards a Silence spell will keep more people from being drawn to the fight. Dante and she could handle anyone left, she was certain.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 07:26 AM

Solunastra, Daggerfall: Tris

"That was great, that went better than I had any reason to hope for," Tris said, collapsing into the extra chair in Ciel's office, laughing. "Happy Jester's Day!"

He told Ciel briefly what he had done to Herwyn.

"The best part was how he got home. There was this fat man asleep in the room next to him after being with a prostitute. He stole the fat man's clothes, stole the poor working girl's money, tightened his belt several notches and strolled right out the front door. Had the guards chasing him through the street trying to stop him for robbery on the way to the Mages's Guild. It was priceless!"

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 07:35 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 02:51 PM)

Dante slowly floated down the stairs towards the basement door. Once reached he began to slowly nudge it open, his other hand unsheathing his sword.

From inside the room, there was a cry of "Dante!" Followed closely by a loud thud noise. Then Dante backed out of the small room parrying strikes from a spear.

"Get Illidan..." He growled, knocking the spear to one side, "I can handle this guy."

Posted by: Solin Apr 29 2005, 07:40 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 12:26 AM)

Ciel listened intently to the short tale, surprise and shock registering on his face as the story unwound. When it was finished he shook his head from side to side, the corners of his mouth turned upward in a slight smile of amusement.

"I dare say he had it coming," the knight remarked. "After Crosswych Stand, that is. I, for one, wish I could have exchanged words with the man while he was in such a delicate position. I wish I could have seen the look on his face when he realized what had happened"

As the knight finished, his face straightened a bit.

"How long is this going to continue, Tris?" he asked as his brow shifted, furrowing a bit. "After this last escapade I can't help but feel as if he might be more incensed to find and capture you. The Brand is no fool. He will likely be more watchful from the hereafter and it seems that the stakes have been raised, as you've shown him soem of what you can do."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 07:42 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:35 AM)

Loranna hastily floats back up the stairs, giving Dante room to retreat; she casts a Fortify Strength and Agility spell on Dante to aid his fight.

"Right; soon as the path's clear ..." she promises, tensing. Sword and spear were flashing, and Loranna didn't feel like getting poked in the eye. The weapons flashed, and then Dante managed to parry the spear once again, holding it down ...

It was as good a window of opprotunity as any; Loranna floats over the two fighters, her back pressed against the ceiling, her hands pulling her along to increase her speed.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 07:44 AM

QUOTE(Solin @ Apr 29 2005, 12:40 AM)

"He already knows what I can do," Tris said. "I leave him a red rose of Wayrest every morning just to remind him. This prank though, anyone could have done that, no Void Ranger tricks at all, that's the beauty of it. You want to know the funniest thing? I talked to him afterwards to be sure he took it okay. He's fine. But he wanted me to take a letter to Doll for him. Listen to this."

Tris read the letter out loud.

Dear Lady,

Owing to circumstances of which I am certain you are aware, I cannot recall being told your name. In any case, I suspect it would not be that by which you are truly known.

What I do recall about the evening, however, is a woman of exceptional grace and refinement, and possessed of an even more exceptional intellect.

I wish to say that I hold no grudge, and hold you in no disrespect.

If you would so chose, I would be honored to converse with you again, even if it meant again awakening penniless in hostile lands.

Sincerely,
Herwyn Brand

"What did I tell you?" Tris said, still laughing. "I couldn't have planned that. That's serendipity, man!"

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 07:50 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 03:12 PM)

Dante continued parrying strikes, and having his own strikes parried. Several times a spear head sailed overhead, only to have the shaft bonk him on the noggin'. And to be quite honest...it was starting to get on his nerves.

Inside the basement, Illidan struggled against his binds. In doing so, he fell forward, flat on his face. He awaited the arrival of someone to help him.

Posted by: Solin Apr 29 2005, 07:51 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 12:44 AM)

Thew knight nodded as he listened to the letter being read.

"He is a most unusual fellow," Ciel said after a moment had passed. "Just be careful around him, for both our sakes."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 07:55 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:50 AM)

Getting into the basement, Loranna quickly scans the room, seeing Illidan and no one else. Remaining wary anyway, she uses Open spells to free Illidan of his bonds.

"Sorry we took so long dear," she says, helping Illidan to his feet and pressing a potion vial in his hand. "Time for your heart to beat again - and then, which would you prefer, short blade or mace?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 07:57 AM

QUOTE(Solin @ Apr 29 2005, 12:51 AM)

The knight nodded as he listened to the letter being read.

"He is a most unusual fellow," Ciel said after a moment had passed. "Just be careful around him, for both our sakes."

"If I ever tried to be careful, I'd trip over myself like a centipede thinking about his feet," Tris said, grinning. "All right, I guess I better deliver this letter, and see whether Loranna's in trouble yet."

Posted by: Solin Apr 29 2005, 08:02 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 12:57 AM)

Ciel thrummed his fingers against his desk while he looked Tris over.

"Yes, I imagine it would indeed be best to put that letter in the proper hands," he remarked. "As to Loranna, has she ever been in anything else? That would probably be best to be seen to as well."

The former knight added a grin to the last comment and turned back to his desk.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 08:06 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 03:25 PM)

Illidan climbed to his feet and took the potion. He gave Loranna a quick look before downing it, he began to dart his tounge in and out of his mouth. Indicating the obvious odd taste it gave. "Tastes...kind of like Kwama." Illidan said blankly, before snapping his head back and falling back to the ground. He was out cold for no more than 5 seconds when his eyes snapped open again, they had returned to their original red colour. He got up and began rubbing his chest, as if he had a small pain there, it was of course his heart beating.

"Mace, please." Illidan said finally, holding out his hand.
---------------------

Dante dropped beneath another spear thrust, though this time he swivelled in his crouched position. His blade found the back of the guards knee cap. Said vampire hopped around a little while, before falling backwards and rolling down the stairwell.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 08:08 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 02:06 AM)

Loranna hands Illidan Bell Ringer, casting healing and fortifying spells on him.

"Welcome back dear," she says, her face breaking out into a grin. "The mace is enchanted to strengthen your blows; let's go help your brother."

Then, the guard rolls down the stairs. " ... Or just clean up after him ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 08:11 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:06 AM)

The Void

"Took you long enough," Mirea said, as Tris appeared beside her. "No one's blown anything up yet, I was getting bored."

"I'd hate to try to date you," Tris said. "It would be exhausting keeping you entertained."

"NO thank you," Mirea said, wrinkling her nose. "You smell like you'd have weak children."

"And Illidan?" Tris said.

"Smells like a dead guy," Mirea said. "Or he did a minute ago. I'm going to go see."

The two Void Rangers pushed through into the room with Illidan and Loranna.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 08:18 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 03:38 PM)

Illidan looked over the wounded vampire, "Indeed..."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 03:41 PM)

Illidan gave a small gasp, "Gah, I just get my heart working again and already some people are trying to give me a heart attack." He said, with a small hint of a smile.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 08:23 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:18 AM)

Illidan looked over the wounded vampire, "Indeed..."
Illidan gave a small gasp, "Gah, I just get my heart working again and already some people are trying to give me a heart attack." He said, with a small hint of a smile.

Mirea sniffed Illidan, then laughed.

"You smell better," she said. "But you need a bath."

"Loranna, what's the plan?" Tris said. "Surely we're not leaving vampires in charge of the city."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 08:24 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 02:18 AM)

"Hi you two," Loranna says, smiling at Tris and Mirea as she casts an Absorb Health to put the guard out of his misery. "Illidan dear, you're not used to that yet? Oh dear ..."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 02:23 AM)

Mirea sniffed Illidan, then laughed.

"You smell better," she said. "But you need a bath."

"Loranna, what's the plan?" Tris said. "Surely we're not leaving vampires in charge of the city."

"No, we're not," Loranna says. "Now that Illidan's safe though we can ..."

Outside, a cry can be heard - a raspy Dunmer voice. "There's trouble in the South Tower! Bring the guards!"

Loranna's face turns to a frown. " ... improvise from here ..." she continues.

The sound of a searing, firey blast soon echoes through the streets, followed by the cries of Vampires On Fire.

" ...That was probably my boyfriend ..." Loranna says, her expression turning to one of resignation. "Come on; let's go join the party in progress."

She starts for the door.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 08:34 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 03:53 PM)

Mirea sniffed Illidan, then laughed.

"You smell better," she said. "But you need a bath."

"Thanks." Illidan said, with a toothy grin.

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 03:54 PM)

"Hi you two," Loranna says, smiling at Tris and Mirea as she casts an Absorb Health to put the guard out of his misery. "Illidan dear, you're not used to that yet? Oh dear ..."
"No, we're not," Loranna says. "Now that Illidan's safe though we can ..."

Outside, a cry can be heard - a raspy Dunmer voice. "There's trouble in the South Tower! Bring the guards!"

Loranna's face turns to a frown. " ... improvise from here ..." she continues.

The sound of a searing, firey blast soon echoes through the streets, followed by the cries of Vampires On Fire.

" ...That was probably my boyfriend ..." Loranna says, her expression turning to one of resignation. "Come on; let's go join the party in progress."

She starts for the door.

Illidan followed after Loranna. The cries of Dante were heard shortly after. "The sun's rising, they're falling back to the council manors...all of them." A look of disbelief was planted across his face, not that anyone downstairs could of seen it.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Apr 29 2005, 08:36 AM

He is rushing, running so fast that everything seems to be frozen in time. Wind is running and pushing himself harder then he has ever done before. He knew it was a bad idea to leave Little John alone for a long time. Now someone is dead, and there is blood on his, and Little John’s hands... again. So, Wind is running away from that accident, and the thought of being in a little cell for the rest of his life. Little John would find him, he always does, that’s not what Wind was worried about right now, all he was thinking about now was getting away from that accident and the guards, as quickly as he possibly could.

Even if everything seems to be moving slow, and Wind has been this fast all his life, its still hard to react to things running at the speed Wind is running. So, when the stray Guar stepped in his path, Wind only had a few seconds to react.

He wasn’t fast enough.

Wind clips the Guar giving it one hell of a scare, and a burn that will eventually turn into a deep scar, that will puzzle the Guar’s owner to no end. After clipping the Guar, Wind is sent into an out of control spin. From there, that’s when the real, weird stuff starts to happen. If you asked Wind what happened he would have said It was as if Nirn became mixed with a black, and gray gradient and suddenly slowed and began to fade to darkness.

Within seconds Wind was surrounded on all sides by empty twilight.

Wind feels his feet rise above him as gravity suddenly has to take a lunch break. His run suddenly stopped and he calls out, hearing nothing but the eerie, unsettling, howl of an empty abyss. Wind's hair suddenly becomes heavy, and his clothes, and skin, sink him down like an anchor. In the empty, blackness of the void Wind blinks, and when he opens his eyes he’s back on Nirn, on his hands and knees, breathing hard as if he’s had a bad nightmare. While looking down, Wind drops his head and empties his stomach of its contents on the dew soaked Nirn soil.

After a few minutes, Wind looks around. This area was like any area on Nirn, Wind knew it like he knew the color of the sun, and the smell of fresh rain. On instinct, he knew he was over one hundred miles from where he was when he dodged that Guar.

"Traveling over a hundred miles in two seconds? Can’t be... but how else did I get this far?" Wind shook the thought away with a shake of his head. "I’ll walk for awhile. All this rushing and running must be getting to me."

Wind rises from the ground on wobbly legs, and begins an awkward walk deeper into the forest.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 08:37 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:34 AM)

"Thanks." Illidan said, with a toothy grin.
Illidan followed after Loranna. The cries of Dante were heard shortly after. "The sun's rising, they're falling back to the council manors...all of them." A look of disbelief was planted across his face, not that anyone downstairs could of seen it.

"Those council manors were never built to be defended," Tris said. "The houses haven't waged outright war for generations, they use the Morag Tong instead. I say we crack open their Hlaalu mud huts and let some daylight in."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 08:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 02:37 AM)

"How crass and non-civic minded," Loranna chides, looking mock serious. "And how utterly perfect a chance for Teleran to show off his new shiny crown ..."

Another firey blast catches a retreating vampire, turning him into a blazing example of why one must learn to duck fast.

"Maybe we should have Slyvos and Teleran compete to see who can crack them open faster," Loranna says, here eyebrows raising. "Dear me; I'm bloodthirsty tonight ... er, today."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 08:43 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 01:41 AM)

"Vampires don't have blood," Tris said. "At least, not blood that belongs to them. Teleran, how about blowing some stuff up for the nice lady?"

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 08:47 AM

Bhlaahlu council manor-

"Ravone..." Volrina said calmly, a very eery calm. The Dunmer vampire approached timidly, his ebony armour clanking all the while.

"Y-yes? Volrina...?" He asked, just as timidly as his walk.

His response, was Volrina merely tearing the fabric baring the red coda from his pauldron. Followed by a hard slap. "Prepare the defences." She muttered.

"Yes, Volrina."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 08:56 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 02:47 AM)

The council manor suddenly gets hit by a powerful bolt of raw magic, tearing a hole in the wall and letting sunlight stream in. The bolt is followed by several more bolts that rain down from the roof, letting more sunlight in.

Slyvos grins; it felt good to cut loose with his magic and to be honest the Hlaalu manors were kind of drab-looking anyway.

Loranna looks to her companions, and says "Door's open," as she casts fortifying spells on the party.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 08:57 AM

QUOTE(Arrogant_Hero @ Apr 29 2005, 01:36 AM)

Solunastra

A silver haired woman with an infant in her lap looked up.

Strange. The door was tightly shut, as were the windows. But she had definitely felt a wind from somewhere.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 09:00 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 01:56 AM)

"I always wondered if Dunmer see colors differently," Tris said, laughing. "Their buildings are all so ugly."

He drew his ebony sword, and rushed into the opening. The smell of roasting, rotten meat greeted his nostrils.

Mirea nocked her bow.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 09:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 04:26 PM)

Vampires from upstairs ran down to the already tightly cramped living area to escape the sunlight pouring in from the roof. All bows were aimed at the doorway and the stairs. Volrina snarled as the swarm of vampires in the room hurried to one side, but unable to escape the light.

Volrina snarled, but remained calm...she had two brilliant aces up her sleeve yet. One she would use now, it was obviously needed. "Potions!" She cried, and nearly every vampire held up a vial...they were the potions from the Azurite battle, and would let them spend a certain amount of time in the sunlight. Some vampires had more than others. Some had none at all...these were the ones that charged outside towards the party. Screaming like mad men.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 09:18 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 02:08 AM)

Vampires from upstairs ran down to the already tightly cramped living area to escape the sunlight pouring in from the roof. All bows were aimed at the doorway and the stairs. Volrina snarled as the swarm of vampires in the room hurried to one side, but unable to escape the light.

Volrina snarled, but remained calm...she had two brilliant aces up her sleeve yet. One she would use now, it was obviously needed. "Potions!" She cried, and nearly every vampire held up a vial...they were the potions from the Azurite battle, and would them spend a certain amount of time in the sunlight. Some vampires had more than others. Some had none at all...these were the ones that charged outside towards the party. Screaming like mad men.

Tris struck the first vampire with his sword, only to have the vampire flash in his face like a charred log falling apart in a fire. He blinked, and went on. The vampires behind that one were not as affected by the sun.

"Jerk," Mirea said, loosing arrow after arrow into the horde of vampires. "Thinks he's a sword fighter, we could use someone casting dispell."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 09:20 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 03:08 AM)

Slyvos fires a last bolt into the walls of the manor for good measure, and then sees the vampires running out screaming like beserkers.

"Huh; wonder what they're using to protect themselves from the sun ..." he mutters, shrugging; "Shouldn't matter much though ..."

He could see Loranna already raising her hands; Slyvos throws up a spell combining shield and spell absorption and concentrates on raining firey death upon screaming vampires.

===

What the heck? Loranna thinks, seeing vampires charging the party. Are they suicidal ...

On reflex, Loranna casts Absorb Strengh and Speed custom spells into the advancing vampires; as she does so it occurs to her that they're likely using spells or potions to counteract the damage done by the sun.

That suggests a new strategy ... Loranna realizes, belatedly.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 09:32 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 04:48 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 04:50 PM)

Vampires were hit by Slyvos spells, but many continued their charge. The potions they were using taking great affect.

Vampires slowed...but continued onwards, arrows sailed in Loranna's direction. Many impaling charging vampires, their potion thankfully helping them.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 09:40 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 03:32 AM)

Several vampires leapt towards Tris, swinging their blades angrily. Some of the other vampires exploded into hot ash, said ash blown in the direction of his face.

Vampires fell under Mirea's arrows, clutching their shins/arms/other limb's as they fell. Vampire archers also returned fire.
Vampires were hit by Slyvos spells, but many continued their charge. The potions they were using taking great affect.

Vampires slowed...but continued onwards, arrows sailed in Loranna's direction. Many impaling charging vampires, their potion thankfully helping them.

"Gah!" Slyvos strengthens his shield spell, as arrows rain around him; he sees Loranna take an arrow in her shoulder that slips past her armor and growls, his claws flexing.

"Undead bastards ..." he mutters, by now seeing what must be protecting the vampires. "Let's rip your protections off of you ..."

As a mage, Slyvos had various versions of the Dispel spell ready for use; he throws the large area effect version into the rear ranks of the vampires so that it won't accidentally mess up his own party. Then, he focuses on using more focused Dispels on the vampires in the front lines, to help his companions.

===

Arrows were raining down on her; one managed to slip through the joints of Loranna's armor, eliciting a grunt of pain. Still, she had taken worse blows and her healing potions were still in effect.

She saw Slyvos casting Dispels, so she focuses on using magic to bolster everyone's defenses, with sanctuary and shield, and to heal anyone who looks to be actually hurt.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 09:44 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 02:40 AM)

"Watch this," Tris said.

He increased his speed until the world around him seemed to stand still and the edges of his vision started to change colors. Then he whipped through the air, plucking the oncoming arrows of the vampires like so many flowers. Next he hurled them, at the same speed, back at their attackers.

Some arrows burst into flame from the speed of his throw; some went even faster and disappeared into the Void with a noise like the cracking of a whip. But some found their targets.

It occurred to Mirea that she didn't need to hold back. The Meat Mandate said she had to eat anything she killed - and vampires were dead already.

She continued to unleash deadly arrows, one after another.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 29 2005, 09:50 AM

Teleran did not take part in the battle on the outside, close in fighting just did not appeal to him tonight, dancing around enemies’ blades was not as entertaining a prospect. He used another invisibility potion and avoided the main battle, redirecting some of the rubble to smash into charging vampires as he went around to side of the manor, to the wall that was mostly in one piece.

Out of view from the main group he placed the Golem’s Crown upon his head; maybe the difference from his true form would make it easier. He put his fist through the wall, extending its effects through telekinesis to make the hole larger, large enough to step through. He walked into the Council Manor’s brand new entrance and announced himself to the first vampire he saw by tossing him across the room into one of the few remaining bits of wall.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 09:59 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:10 PM)

The potions were dispelled, vampires felt the sting of the sun again, thankfully. Some had extras. They downed them and continued their charge, more arrows rained towards Slyvos and Loranna.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 05:14 PM)

More vampires fell, the potions not being in affect greatly helped that. But shortly they had their potions back in commision again.

A small group of vampires leapt at Tris, all slashing out with their weapons.

"Volrina, stop standing around like a fool! We must get out while we still can, the runts are distracting them well enough for us to escape!" Shouted the brooding Altmer, looking over Teleran worridly.

"We will stay and fight for as long as we have to, Altmer..." Volrina said cooly, also watching as Teleran barged through the wall.

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 29 2005, 05:20 PM)

Ravone looked at Teleran, then to Volrina. He snarled, and drew a Daedric longsword. A while later Ravone had manouvered onto Teleran's back, and was bringing his sword down on his hulking form's shoulder.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 10:18 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 02:59 AM)

A small group of vampires leapt at Tris, all slashing out with their weapons.

"Volrina, stop standing around like a fool! We must get out while we still can, the runts are distracting them well enough for us to escape!" Shouted the brooding Altmer, looking over Teleran worridly.

"We will stay and fight for as long as we have to, Altmer..." Volrina said cooly, also watching as Teleran barged through the wall.
Ravone looked at Teleran, then to Volrina. He snarled, and drew a Daedric longsword. A while later Ravone had manouvered onto Teleran's back, and was bringing his sword down on his hulking form's shoulder.

Tris whirled, his blade spinning through the air. At this speed, the thunk of sword against flesh and bone gave way to a sort of vibration which felt like it might rip his arm off if he wasn't careful.

Across the room a vampire woman seemed to be giving orders, standing and waiting calmly. Tris lunged in her direction, striking out at the Altmer standing beside her.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 29 2005, 10:19 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 12:59 AM)

The potions were dispelled, vampires felt the sting of the sun again, thankfully. Some had extras. They downed them and continued their charge, more arrows rained towards Slyvos and Loranna.
More vampires fell, the potions not being in affect greatly helped that. But shortly they had their potions back in commision again.

A small group of vampires leapt at Tris, all slashing out with their weapons.

"Volrina, stop standing around like a fool! We must get out while we still can, the runts are distracting them well enough for us to escape!" Shouted the brooding Altmer, looking over Teleran worridly.

"We will stay and fight for as long as we have to, Altmer..." Volrina said cooly, also watching as Teleran barged through the wall.
Ravone looked at Teleran, then to Volrina. He snarled, and drew a Daedric longsword. A while later Ravone had manouvered onto Teleran's back, and was bringing his sword down on his hulking form's shoulder.

For a normal golem that would have been a serious problem, but for Teleran it just made it that much easier to aim. Seven daggers surrounded Ravone as he maneuvered into position. They raced his blade to strike first, they were winning.

Teleranfixed Volrina with a glare as he turned to deal with her, slamming a fist into the center pillar producing a loud cracking noise before moving towards her, “This is all your fault vampire.”

Nehtayem led him in.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 10:20 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 03:59 AM)

Slyvos felt worry in his heart as more arrows rained down on Loranna, but the woman he loved seemed amply protected; what arrows did manage to get through her armor weren't stopping her at all. Her potions were wonderful things.

Those archers were becoming annoying, but the renewed potions of the charging vampires was even more so; Slyvos tosses another Dispel and is rewarded by the scremas of vampires who did not have a third potion on hand.

That'll teach the vampires to try using their tactics and tricks ...

===

Loranna growls softly; she was getting annoyed. The arrows meant next to nothing to her, other than the concern of taking one in the eye; even with her healing potions, the thought of being hit in the eye still struck a primal cord.

The vampires weren't dying - she never liked killing much to begin with but the stupid vampires refused to die and make this easy on themselves. And they were shooting at Slyvos and Tris and Illidan and her other friends, too ...

She looks around briefly, making sure everyone was doing all right; she could see Teleran in the council manor but he was rocky and looking like a giant menaced by goblins, and the others seemed to be doing well enough - her protective spells were holding for her friends and she seemed to be the target the archers wanted down, her and Slyvos.

She sees Slyvos's second Dispel go off and more vampires turn to ash, but a number of them pull out more potions ...

I made potions for these bastards ... Loranna thinks, her annoyance turning to anger. Her hands raise ...

Those vampires who were going to drink their third potions get hit by powerful Absorb Strength spells, leaving their swords too massy for their arms. Loranna strides forward, ignoring the arrows raining around her, and starts casting Dispel on the now weakened vampires, grabbing them and holding their arms and yelling "Just die and let everyone be at peace, idiot!" at those unfortunate enough to earn her wrath.

Slyvos gulps; oddly enough those near him can hear it over the din of battle.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 10:23 AM

Mirea shrieked as an arrow grazed her arm, and popped into the Void. From here she could fire arrows in safety.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 10:31 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 05:48 PM)

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 29 2005, 05:49 PM)

Ravone flipped over Teleran's shoulder, letting his blade's continue towards his own body. He landed with an unnatural grace. Seeing Teleran head towards Volrina, he saw this as a moment for revenge, and in such recalled also, joining the others.

Volrina stood, cooly, letting Nehtayem continue forwards, at just the right time she rolled beneath it. And leapt upwards, driving her sword towards Teleran's chin.

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:50 PM)

The vampires were scattered an weak. Many flee'd in many different locations. Many falling to the sun once they reached the bridge.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 10:38 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 03:31 AM)

The Altmer shrieked, Tris' blade slicing across his chest. He stumbled, holding his gaping wound. He let out a howl, and dived forward, the tip of his dagger aiming for Tris' stomach.

Tris was so focused on his own sword that he didn't even feel the blade slash through his jerkin and into his belly. He had the perfect opening and he took it, his blade moving like an extension of his arm. The Altmer's head flew lazily through the air and thudded on the manor floor behind him. His body, liberated of its head, burst into flames, then disintegrated.

Time began to move at normal speed again. Tris sucked in a sharp gasp of pain, then relaxed as Loranna's healing potion repaired the wound to his stomach.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 10:42 AM

Within the Void, Mirea was watching the vampires wink out like fireflies. Where were they going?

Of course... they were going to the last safe place they had lived. The caves near Ald Raathim.

A flash, and she was there too, lurking in the Void. Just spying, as usual.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 10:42 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 04:31 AM)

The Altmer shrieked, Tris' blade slicing across his chest. He stumbled, holding his gaping wound. He let out a howl, and dived forward, the tip of his dagger aiming for Tris' stomach.

There were eight flashes of light, Janis and the remaining council members had recalled. Shortly after there were three more flashes, the remaining elites were gone. Albeit badly wounded.
Ravone flipped over Teleran's shoulder, letting his blade's continue towards his own body. He landed with an unnatural grace. Seeing Teleran head towards Volrina, he saw this as a moment for revenge, and in such recalled also, joining the others.

Volrina stood, cooly, letting Nehtayem continue forwards, at just the right time she rolled beneath it. And leapt upwards, driving her sword towards Teleran's chin.
The vampires were scattered an weak. Many flee'd in many different locations. Many falling to the sun once they reached the bridge.

Slyvos hurries over to Loranna's side. "Love, are you ..."

Loranna nods, a couple arrows sticking out of her. "I'm fine; the others have Volrina and her cronies well in hand, let's go start on the other manors ..."

===

Some of the vampires in the other manors had fled; some hadn't, however. Those that didn't were greeted by various party members, including a menacing Ohmes-Raht with claws burning with fire and an ashen-skined Nord woman, arrows stuck in her armor and flesh, glaring with ice blue eyes that matched her armor.

The remaining vampires had the decency to die quickly.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 29 2005, 10:43 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:31 AM)

Teleran had no problems halting his blades from taking himself out, when the pressure left the blades halted in their flight.

Volrina though would prove a bit more troublesome. She was fast, very fast, but pulling knives from sheaths without having to reach for them was a useful skill, two daggers attacked the blade deflecting it in front of Teleran’s face and holding it from slashing back. With the initial rush blocked, the daggers he had stopped from stabbing into his own skin started again flying for Volrina this time.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 10:46 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 29 2005, 06:13 PM)

Teleran had no problems halting his blades from taking himself out, when the pressure left the blades halted in their flight.

Volrina though would prove a bit more troublesome. She was fast to move so quickly, but pulling knives from sheaths without having to reach for them was a useful skill, two daggers attacked the blade deflecting it in front of Teleran’s face and holding it from slashing back. With the initial rush blocked, the daggers he had stopped from stabbing into his own skin started again flying for Volrina this time.

Volrina snarled as a dagger slashed across her lower back. She leapt into the air, flying over Teleran and kicking at the crown. Laughing all the while.

Posted by: Teleran Apr 29 2005, 10:49 AM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Apr 29 2005, 01:46 AM)

Volrina snarled as a dagger slashed across her lower back. She leapt into the air, flying over Teleran and kicking at the crown. Laughing all the while.

Teleran grunted as the crown was driven against his temple. He caught her leg in his grip before she could leap back. His daggers that had flown past her reversed direction again.

Posted by: w0nders Apr 29 2005, 10:53 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Apr 29 2005, 06:19 PM)

Teleran grunted as the crown was driven against his temple. He caught her leg in his grip before she could leap back. His daggers that had flown past her reversed direction again.

Volrina fell backwards, effectively breaking her leg. She screamed loudly, scooping up her sword, only to be impaled by multiple daggers. She leant up, using all her might and took a few last slashes at Teleran's face before going exploding in a cloud of ash.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 11:37 AM

Aftermath

With Volrina's death, and the remaining vampires who did not flee destroyed, Balmora is released from the grip of undeath.

Cattle were found cowering in the manors and other domiciles; many, seeing the Accursed Mother healing them of their wounds, wept and gave thanks for their good fortune. Loranna accepted the 'accolades' as best she could, telling the freed captives of nearby Caldera where they could go to find shelter and get themselves back on their feet - or wherever they needed to go.

The red Odai river was cleared of its ghoulish dam; the bodies of the poor souls consigned to such an ignoble fate were disposed of in a more fitting manner, and the river cleared. Eventually, the taint of blood would be washed away.

By the time the day wore on to the late afternoon, Balmora was ready to be reclaimed by mortal hands once more - a little worse for wear perhaps, but clensed of the undead menace. Loranna opined that a modest donation to House Hlaalu or Helseth might help assuage some of the damages - modest, because they had already done both parties a favor in taking out the vampires for them.

Illidan was cured of his vampirism; it was a joyous occasion. They would have to welcome him back properly once they got back home ...

===

The day's work done, Loranna finds herself standing outside Eight Plates, thinking of her last visit to Balmora, and the events her little solo excursion back then had led to.

She looks down at her arm for a moment, admiring her ashen skin, muttering " ... And to think, the last time I was here I didn't blow anything up - but did more harm overall for all my peaceful intents. Heh ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 11:56 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 04:37 AM)

Aftermath

The day's work done, Loranna finds herself standing outside Eight Plates, thinking of her last visit to Balmora, and the events her little solo excursion back then had led to.

She looks down at her arm for a moment, admiring her ashen skin, muttering " ... And to think, the last time I was here I didn't blow anything up - but did more harm overall for all my peaceful intents. Heh ..."

"Blowing things up can be good," Tris said, pouring her a drink of matze he had unearthed from behind the Council Club bar. "It all depends on what you blow up."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:03 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 05:56 AM)

"Blowing things up can be good," Tris said, pouring her a drink of matze he had unearthed from behind the Council Club bar. "It all depends on what you blow up."

Loranna accepts the drink, sipping it and letting her tongue get used to the taste; she'd been spoiling herself on mead in High Rock.

"I guess you're right," she says, smiling a bit. "Still feels a bit wrong in my heart, but I'm starting to wonder if that may be me not wanting to get too enthused about blowing things up; it felt good finally putting those stupid vampires down after they got back up twice."

She sips her matze again. " ... I dunno; I kinda feel bad we weren't in a position to actually cure more of them, but I don't see many of the vamps we just killed going for it, but we did ally with them during the Blue Dawn ... and I sound like my old addle-brained self again, like I was the last time I was in Balmora."

She laughs a bit. "I need to be reminded we can't save the whole world every day, don't I?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 12:08 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:03 AM)

"You can only save the part of the world that wants to be saved," Tris said. "That's the tricky part, not everyone wants salvation."

He laughed and took a drink of his matze. "I sound like a priest or something. The truth is, Loranna, I'm not sure I want just everyone to be saved. At least not if they want to be neighborly. Only the sexy and charming people should be spared. Is that bad of me?"

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:16 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 06:08 AM)

"Probably," Loranna says, grinning a bit. "But to be honest, I'm guilty of being blind to the bad sides of pretty people myself. Must be something to do with that raging libido I keep chained down to a dull roar except when alone with gorgeous Khajiit men."

Her grin widens. "I think you're right though, about not everyone wanting salvation. That's the annoying part ... you sit there and you ask yourself, how can this person go through life being such a monster and not wanting to change, and thinking it's all right and dandy?"

"Some people are just dense I guess; that's what first hand experience suggests."

She swallows more of her matze, muttering "Not as bad as I remembered ... well, we got rid of some monsters today; I noticed some got away though. But I doubt they'll try to take a city again, or even a town; least I'd like to think they'd not try this again."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 12:19 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:16 AM)

"I wouldn't be sure of that," Tris said. "This group won't, maybe. But rumor has it Mannimarco is planning something big, it will happen someday."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:21 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 06:19 AM)

"I wouldn't be sure of that," Tris said. "This group won't, maybe. But rumor has it Mannimarco is planning something big, it will happen someday."

"Lovely," Loranna sighs. "Well, we'll deal with that when we get to it, I suppose. In the meantime, there's a few things left to take care of. I'm wondering how Nalion is faring, and ... well, some personal things have come up for myself and Slyvos."

"You ever hear about my father?" she asks, toying with her glass.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 12:22 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:21 AM)

"You forget I spied on you long before I ever met you," Tris said.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:27 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 06:22 AM)

"You forget I spied on you long before I ever met you," Tris said.

"Oh, right," Loranna says. "And that's another thing; I got to tell Allie about the mirror soon, too."

"Well, anyway, I got a letter from one Theogar recently, saying he met my father, helped bring him back from the Golden Road. Seems he told my dad to go meet the Skaal in Solstheim. Seems he thinks I ought to go talk to the Skaal too, and my father."

She pauses for a second. "Slyvos got a letter too; remember Two-Tails? He didn't make it through the Dawn; he's buried up somewhere in Solstheim too, near an Uncle Sweetshare or the like. Really broke him up ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 29 2005, 12:30 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 05:27 AM)

"Damn, poor old sugar-head," Tris said. He paused a moment to think.

"Loranna, you think your dad's really all there now? The dam dog doesn't let go of his victims lightly. You should probably have someone go with you, in case... well, in case."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 29 2005, 12:33 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 29 2005, 06:30 AM)

Loranna shrugs. "Am I all here?" she asks, giving a lopsided grin.

" ... But you have a point, Tris. I was thinking Slyvos and I should take a trip north; might be good though to ask a friend or two to go with us. Especially given how I get around snow."

She winks, a snowball magically forming in her hand.

"Anyway, we should check back home, make sure everything's okay. And then catch up with other friends."

She finishes her matze.

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 07:36 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 06:16 AM)

Her grin widens. "I think you're right though, about not everyone wanting salvation. That's the annoying part ... you sit there and you ask yourself, how can this person go through life being such a monster and not wanting to change, and thinking it's all right and dandy?"

"Some people are just dense I guess; that's what first hand experience suggests."

"Yup, ima dense monster," Reichi said, strolling by, smirking. He had been pretty much checking the town to make sure the place was throughly cleaned of its' menace. Though he had only recently resumed he human form. Luckily, he had time before turning into a Werewolf to properly remove his stuff and stash it.

Tohe, meanwhile, was watching the blood in the Odai wash away, revealing a couple suits of ebony, which had belonged to several vampire guards Reichi had tossed into the odai, if the fall hadn't killed some, as several cracks on one helmet indicated, they had drowned. And if that hadn't done the job, the sun finished it. When the potions wore off, of course.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 30 2005, 07:47 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 01:36 AM)

Radont stands on the banks of the Odai, helmless. He tosses small rocks into the river wondering aloud "Why is it so relaxing to throw things into a river"? His dented armor sits in a pile at his side.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 07:56 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 30 2005, 01:47 AM)

Loranna comes out of Eight Plates in time to answer Radont. "Because it's like a good snowball fight only not as competitive, of course," she says, smiling broadly.

" ... In other words, I don't know but I agree it is relaxing," she continues. "But I think it's time we started heading back. There's still some things in High Rock I and others need to take care of, and let's face it - the food here in Balmora is nothing to write home about."

She smiles prettily. "Shall we get back to the Mage Guild and make our way?"

Posted by: Teleran Apr 30 2005, 07:59 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 29 2005, 10:56 PM)

Well that was over and one thing was definitely better about facing vampires, far less of a mess to clean up when they died for good, they vaporized, however messy their final death had been. He left his iron dagger among the ruins, he knew it was pointless but still he tried to leave it anyway. Sure enough, when he joined Loranna and Radont a few moments later it had slipped back into its sheath.

“Let’s. No sense waiting here, unless you’re planning on claiming Balmora as part of Daruhn, Lor.” Teleran said.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 30 2005, 07:59 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 01:56 AM)

Radont nods. "I will follow. Will there be any smithy's along the way?" he says, glancing at his armor.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 08:07 AM

QUOTE(Sir Radont @ Apr 30 2005, 12:59 AM)

Radont nods. "I will follow. Will there be any smithy's along the way?" he says, glancing at his armor.

"Better prices back in Westcastle," Tris said. "As for why chucking rocks into water is soothing... it combines the Dibellan delight of shiny ripples with the more primal delight in destructive force. Any more questions like that, I'm here all week."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 08:10 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 02:07 AM)

"Can we keep you for the whole year?" Loranna asks with a wink. "Anyway, let's gather our gear and salvage and head on out."

Returning to Caldera and the Mage Guild did not take too long; the party was in Westcastle before they knew it ...

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 08:15 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 08:10 AM)

Once the party had arrived save and sound on the Guild Guide platform, the guide currently on duty approached Loranna and Tris, handing over a letter.
"You're the one with the name 'Grier' and 'Tris', aren't you? I think I've seen you before. I've been told to give you this."

QUOTE(A letter written in Nalions small handwriting)

Fredas, 22nd of Rain's Hand, Westcastle, High Rock Province

Dear Loranna, dear Tris,

first, I would like to apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused you and the others by my long silence. I hope this letter reaches you in time, I have told the messenger to relay the message to Ald Raathim if he doesn't catch you in Westcastle.
I have decided to visit my hometown Llainfair in the time you are away from the cave of the witches and hope to be back soon. I do not know what awaits me after all these years and I hope I can clear up the matters there, but some information I got from my inquiries in Menevia does not forebode well.

Though I have been away from home for 17 years, I will try to return to Ald Raathim in about three days. Do not let my absence hinder you with what must be done. Please send my apologies to Dante and Illidan for me not being able to help them further with finding the cure.

I wish you all well, know that a part of me will always be with you,

Nalion

An additional piece of paper included in the letter gave directions to Llainfair.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 08:33 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 01:15 AM)

QUOTE(A letter written in Nalions small handwriting)

An additional piece of paper included in the letter gave directions to Llainfair.

Unusually, Tris knew the date - two days after Jester's Day, which had been the 28th. "He's late," Tris said. "Could be nothing, could be trouble. I wish he'd taken someone with him. I think I'm going to run up there, see if I can locate him."

Llainfair was in the Wrothgarian Mountain region - Wayrest now, Tris was pretty sure, although parts of Wrothgaria had gone to Orsinium.

He emerged in the town of Llainfair and took a look around. Perhaps someone here would have seen Nalion.

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 08:39 AM

QUOTE

The small village seemed empty, but as Tris approached the rim of the town, he could see people in mourning clothes emerging from the local graveyard. A crying woman in her fifties walked away, comforted by a man, obviously her husband. Two people finished filling up a fresh grave, then gave their respects to the dead.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 08:45 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 01:39 AM)

Tris approached a person who had been at the funeral, but did not seem to be one of the principal mourners... it would be rude to ask questions of someone suffering too much.

"I'm sorry to bother you at a time like this," he said. "I just arrived in town, looking for a friend of mine, Nalion Leoriane. You wouldn't happen to have seen him?"

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 08:53 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 08:45 AM)

"Always this bothering 'bout other people. Why don't people bother about me for a change? 'specially this Leoriane guy. Filthy sorcerer that he is. That bastard abducted our Lord's daughter years ago, then killed her. Heard of offerings to demons. I hope Lord Tailas will hang him for that." the man answered, clearly wanting to spit out, but then seemed to remember that he just came from a funeral.
"So, friend of him 'eh? Get away from me then. Don't wanna have to do with you. Bother those Leorianes instead. Smithy o'er there. Or better leave and let justice be done. You don't wanna get involved in this."
The man turned away from Tris, clearly not wanting to talk anymore.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 09:00 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 01:53 AM)

A hot retort sprang to Tris's mind, but he held it back. He didn't know these people, and he wasn't going to convince anyone by blustering about how much Nalion had loved his wife and how he wasn't a demon worshipper.

A few moments later Tris reappeared next to Loranna, who was doing her shopping.

"Nalion's in trouble," he said. "Apparently they blame him for the death of his wife. We should get there as soon as we can."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 09:04 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 03:00 AM)

Loranna utters an unladylike word, causing the clothier's eyebrows to raise.

"Right; let's go gather the others," she says, turning and apologizing to the clothier before making a quick beeline to the Mage's Guild.

===

A quick hop to Shornhelm by the Mage Guild, then a half day's ride south toward the Wrothgarian Mountains, and the party arrived in Llainfair, a bit dusty from the road but otherwise unmolested.

" ... So, do we know where he is?" Loranna asks Tris, controlling her worried frown as best she can.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 09:10 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 02:04 AM)

"I know the place to ask," Tris said. "His family, the Leorianes. Apparently they're connected to the smithy."

He pointed.

"And he mentioned the local lord, Lord Tailas. And he mentioned hanging."

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 09:12 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 09:04 AM)

They approached the village when the sun began to set. To the left, the charred ruins of a barn could be seen. Judging from the ashes, the fire happened only recently.
The houses cast long shadows on the main square. The village square was framed by an inn, it's sign reading "Lion's Roar", but the picture underneath the inn's name showed a man rubbing his belly. Adjacent to it lay a smithy, the glow of the burning furnace illuminating a bit of the square. On its other side stood the squat building of the local guards quarters.

The mood of the few villagers walking around seemed depressed, most of them wore a sad face and looked down.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 09:17 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 02:12 AM)

"There was a funeral when I passed through," Tris said. "I wonder who died."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 09:22 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 03:17 AM)

"There was a funeral when I passed through," Tris said. "I wonder who died."

Loranna looks over the town, muttering "Me too ... okay; not much we can do now but get settled in and start talking to people. Maybe the smith first ..."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 30 2005, 09:25 AM

“How the hell did Tris get here and back to Westcastle in under an hour?” Teleran muttered upon reaching Llainfair, “Took us half a day to get here using a guild guide to hop most of the distance. I don’t think he even took a horse.”

Louder he said, “Hanging? Nalion? What did he do? Burn down the barn? Or was that you running through Tris?

“Oh someone died…” Teleran trailed off.

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 09:27 AM

"Yah, hes damn fast..." Reichi said. "Prollys gots potions of speed, or enchantments or soemthing in spades..." Reichi shrugged.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 09:29 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 02:27 AM)

"Yah, hes damn fast..." Reichi said. "Prollys gots potions of speed, or enchantments or soemthing in spades..." Reichi shrugged.

"I'm the fastest there is," Tris said simply. "Yes, let's try the smithy first."

He led the way into the smithy.

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 30 2005, 09:32 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 03:29 AM)

"I'm the fastest there is," Tris said simply. "Yes, let's try the smithy first."

He led the way into the smithy.

Radont sees the run down smithy and wonders if he has any pie.

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 09:38 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 09:29 AM)

"I'm the fastest there is," Tris said simply. "Yes, let's try the smithy first."

He led the way into the smithy.

The smithy looked like any decent smithy in High Rock. The center was the furnace and the anvil, on the walls hung the various necessary tools for crafting weapons and armour. Currently, the smithy was occupied by an apprentice and an older man in his late fifties. The man's face showed the hardships of a smith's life, but it was laid over with sorrow and streaks of white adorned his dark hair. The smith had the sturdy build that befits a master smith.
Despite the burning furnace, no one seemed working, but a freshly honed blade lay on the anvil.

Upüon the party's entrance, the smith rose.
"I am Nolan Leoriane, the local smith. If you seek my service, I fear I must decline. I cannot help you now. Please leave, I have to prepare different matters."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 09:42 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 02:38 AM)

Tris bowed.

"Mister Leoriane, I'm here about... your son, perhaps? I'm looking for Nalion. We're friends of his."

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 09:51 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 09:42 AM)

Tris bowed.

"Mister Leoriane, I'm here about... your son, perhaps? I'm looking for Nalion. We're friends of his."

Nolan looked at Tris, a small gleam of hope shining in his eyes.
"Friends of his? Is that true?" he asked, then he looked at the rest of the party. "Nalion has been here at first. That ungrateful son didn't even bother to write us! But there's not time for this, I can set him straight later, that means, if he lives."

The smith pursed his lips.
"Nalion told us of friends, a Nord, Bretons, at least two Dunmer. They aren't seen very often in this region. I see two of dark elven kind among you. I believe you. Not that I have much choice."
The Breton sighed.
"I will tell you in the house, it's better talking there. My wife and daughter are here, also."
The smith adressed the imperial knight. "Sir, your armour looks rather dented. I said I wouldn't do work for complete strangers, but for friends of my son, there is always an exception. This lad here is almost finished with his apprenticeship, you can trust him to repair you armour, good Sir."
With an inviting gesture, he motioned the party through a door into the house.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 09:53 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 03:51 AM)

Loranna smiles. "Thank you good sir," she says, following.

She wonders what Nalion has gotten himself into ...

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 30 2005, 09:55 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 03:51 AM)

Radont nods and hands his armor to the eager apprentice before following the group. He keeps his blade with him as if it were atatched to him.

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 10:08 AM

"I am sorry, but I fear this house isn't made for so many people." Nolan said apologetically, "but there is a nice warm place at the fireplace too."

As all members of the party ad taken a place to sit, two women entered from the kitchen. The older one, a tall woman seemingly in her early fifties, wore her dark-brown hair braided. A few silver streaks show her age. Her face is kind, but wrinkles at the corner of her eyes indicate that she has had grief in her life as well.
The slender young woman at her side made the impression of agility and grace. Her auburn hair had shoulder length, small wrinkles around her eyes indicated that she used to enjoy a laugh. She obviously was Nalion sister, just slightly younger than the mage himself.
Both women wore sad faces though.

"Please meet my daugther Cienne and my wife Relie. Now that we are all here, I'll best tell you what has happened." Nolan began.

"As I told you, Nalion visited us a few days ago. I first wanted to throw him out on the spot, but we then listened to him. After all, we're his parents. He told us his story, or obviously just selected parts of it. What had happened in the night he left, the years with Lirielle. That me met friends he holds very, very dear and with whom he shares deep bonds. That's when the guards of our local Lord Tailas broke into the house, surprised him by a silence spell and carried him away. I could not hinder them. Tailas accused Nalion of murder and abduction of Lirielle, Tailas' daughter. And witchcraft! I can't believe it. Nalion wouldn't do this kind of thing. After they had silenced him, they dragged him off to the manor. Tailas insisted on him being kept there for safety. They weren't gentle."
The old man's face looked weary and sad.
"People here don't know what to think about him. They knew Nalion was a good lad, but so much time has passed... Tailas doesn't seem to have solid proof, though."

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 10:10 AM

"Hmmpf, sounds like we got some Lordly spotted owl to whup," Reichi muttered. "Er, that is, if ...talking, fails." He gave a weak grin.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 10:15 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 03:08 AM)

"I won't let them hang Nalion," Tris said, in a voice that brooked no argument. "But I'd rather stay within the law if I can. Lirielle died of an illness, and no one regrets that more than he does. Your son is a good man, one of the best I've ever met."

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 10:15 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 10:10 AM)

"Hmmpf, sounds like we got some Lordly spotted owl to whup," Reichi muttered. "Er, that is, if ...talking, fails." He gave a weak grin.

"You want to do what? That doesn't sound pleasant to me. Do you know what you have against you? Joslin Tailas isn't the man to mess around with. I'm scared of him!"
Cienne shuddered.
"I know Nalion loved Lirielle, he admitted it to me some time before he fled with her. He would never have been able to do her ill, never. We can't prove Tailas wrong, but he doesn't seem to be able to prove his point either. The village is split, some readily want to blame Nalion, some simply don't know. I don't know what to do!"
The Breton woman sobbed.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 10:18 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 04:15 AM)

Loranna glowers a bit at Reichi, before turning a reassuring smile to Nalon and Cienne.

"Tris is right; we won't let them hang Nalion," she says. "And we will stay within the bounds of the law as much as possible ..."

"Perhaps though, you could tell us a bit about Lord Tailas," Loranna suggests. "So we'll know what sort of person we're dealing with .."

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 10:21 AM

QUOTE

"Tris is right; we won't let them hang Nalion," she says. "And we will stay within the bounds of the law as much as possible ..."

"You're no fun," Reichi sticking his tongue out at Loranna. "Wouldn't have to hurt no one, just scare 'em good."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 30 2005, 10:23 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 01:18 AM)

"Tris is right; we won't let them hang Nalion," she says. "And we will stay within the bounds of the law as much as possible ..."

“What exactly are the laws here?” Teleran asked curiously.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 10:27 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 03:21 AM)

"I ain't, cause man, like we were just routing a bunch of vampires from a city. Now, unless Tailas has a city's worth of vampires, he aint much trouble for a group like us," Reichi said, smirking. "Even dem didn't do much."
"You're no fun," Reichi sticking his tongue out at Loranna. "Wouldn't have to hurt no one, just scare 'em good."

"Reichi is right," Tris said. "Lord Tailas doesn't know what he's up against. But you have to live here, and Nalion came back to mend fences, not smash them."

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 10:29 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 10:18 AM)

"Thank you so much, my Lady, my young friend, for your kind words. What can I tell you? I have to admit that since my son fled so suddenly, things began to worsen over the years. I don't blame that on Nalion, of course." Nolan answered, facing the Nord woman.
"Living under the rule of a nobleman whose ambition and vengefulness steadily increases makes life hard. Tailas is not a very kind lord, but he seems to keep the things running. Wayrest occupying the country did not better our situation. I still can't believe we're supposed to be under Wayrestian rule now and that Tailas was even eager to support that queen. What was her name? Elysia?"
The smith sighed.
"That's not been the worst part though."

Relie took up the words of her husband.
"Our good Master Mebestian, who cared for the village as enchanter and healer, died so suddenly only a month ago. He was Nalions old master, but still healthy for his age. I can't explain his death. He was a very important part of our village, people not only went to him when they needed small trinkets or healing, but took counsel with him. Mebestian frely shared his wisdom and we loved him for that. His tragic death was a blow to the village."

Nolan nodded to his wife.
"Anyways, since the occupation by Wayrest, bandits rose from near everywhere. Smugglers, ruffians, oulaws, all finding shelter and taking advantage of the situation. I tell you, they even attacked the village, just two days ago! Burned down a barn then fled before the guards could do anything, they even came too late to help us extinguish the fire. Poor Dandric had slept in it and died horribly. Today was his funeral. That and Nalions reappearance gave the village a serious blow. Something's wrong here, very wrong."

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 10:34 AM

"Alright, so does that mean we kick bandit spotted owl instead of lordly spotted owl?" Reichi half joked. Tohe just shook his head.

"C'mon, they burnt a barn down and killed some dude, they totally deserve it..." Reichi said.

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 10:45 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 10:27 AM)

"Reichi is right," Tris said. "Lord Tailas doesn't know what he's up against. But you have to live here, and Nalion came back to mend fences, not smash them."

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 10:34 AM)

"The bandits scare me, too." answered Cienne. "Poor Dandric, he was a nice lad. Seems that he laid down to rest after working in the barn and slept well into the night. Then the bandits came and burned down the barn right over his head." Cienne sniffed and a tear dropped from her cheek. "We could only bury the charred remains of his body."

Posted by: Teleran Apr 30 2005, 10:46 AM

Teleran started smiling sadistically, 'No one will mind their deaths, no one will...' He started caressing his dagger’s hilt before catching himself and jerking his hand away as if burned.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 10:53 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 03:45 AM)

Nolan looked suspiciously at the Dunmer whom Tris just answered. "I don't want to have people upset anymore than is necessary. And you are right. Nalion made the impression to apologize and mend some rifts, not to create new trouble."
"The bandits scare me, too." answered Cienne. "Poor Dandric, he was a nice lad. Seems that he laid down to rest after working in the barn and slept well into the night. Then the bandits came and burned down the barn right over his head." Cienne sniffed and a tear dropped from her cheek. "We could only bury the charred remains of his body."

"What's up with this 'lord' of yours, anyway?" Tris said. "It's his job to keep bandits under control. He may think of you as sheep, but no sensible shepherd wants his sheep killed. I say we go to him and offer to hire out as mercenaries to kill the bandits, see what he says. How did Nalion's master die, anyway?"

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 11:06 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 10:53 AM)

"The situation is complicated. As I said, the village is divided, not only in Nalions case. Some people think that Wayrests occupation proves a chance for a better future, some highly doubt that. People who think that Wayrest is good for us support Tailas. Master Mebestian and I think we would be better off without the whole thing about politics and have voiced our opinions."
The Breton smith shook his head.
"I don't know what happened with Master Mebestian. He was old, yes, but he still retained his vitality. No one expected him to died so suddenly. He has been seen grabbing his chest, right above the heart sometimes though. Now that he is dead, we may have lost our cause..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 11:11 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 04:06 AM)

"You've lost your cause anyway, if your cause is opposing Elysana," Tris said. "She's not lightly to be reckoned with. She doesn't give up what she has. And she is, no doubt, good for your country - because she takes good care of anything that belongs to her. If you'll take my advice you'll stay out of national politics altogether."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 11:14 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 05:06 AM)

Loranna glances over at Tris for a moment, her expression thoughtful.

A town divided over politics; a smoothly-run community which has rcently suffered bandit attacks; a man opposed to the political leanings of the local lord dying suddenly and unexpectedly.

"That is rather peculiar, I grant," she says. "Did Master Mebastian ever seek help from another healer in regards to whatever made him grab at his chest so?"

Posted by: Nalion Apr 30 2005, 11:18 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 11:14 AM)

"No, he didn't. I think even he did not recognize anything out of the ordinary himself. He used to make fun of his years. Well, I can only say, he was old. Age doesn't forget anyone."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 11:38 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Apr 30 2005, 04:18 AM)

"No, he didn't. I think even he did not recognize anything out of the ordinary himself. He used to make fun of his years. Well, I can only say, he was old. Age doesn't forget anyone."

"It's a convenient time for him to die," Tris said. "I wonder if Nalion ever wrote to him. Let's go visit this Lord, and see what he has to say. I have a bit of experience with unreasonable fathers, I'm not afraid of him."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 11:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 05:38 AM)

Loranna gets up and bows lightly to Nalion's family. "Don't worry; we'll get Nalion out of this," she promises.

Then, she looks to Tris, her eyes suggesting she wants to say something to him outside.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 11:46 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 04:42 AM)

"What is it?" Tris asked her, once they were out of the house.

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 11:49 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 05:46 AM)

"What is it?" Tris asked her, once they were out of the house.

" ... I'm thinking while you're talking with the lord, maybe we should let some of the others look into taking on the bandits," Loranna says quietly. "You know - so an already irate father doesn't get any more reasons to yell and pull out his hair."

"And," she adds, her voice dropping even lower, "because I kinda wonder if there may be some connection between the two; there might be something we can use at the bandit's hideout if that's the case."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 11:52 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 04:49 AM)

"I think there probably is a connection," Tris said. "Use to do what? If this lord wants Nalion dead, and from what Nalion said to me he's always hated him, proving Nalion innocent isn't going to change a thing, and proving the lord is sending bandits against his own villages isn't going to change a thing. I know I usually accuse you of thinking like a peasant, Loranna, but maybe it's been too long since you were a peasant. The lord owns these people; he can kill them if he wants to, fairly or otherwise."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 11:55 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 05:52 AM)

"Well fine," Loranna says, grumbling a bit. "I still think though it'd be better to let the others handle the bandits; we'll be doing the village a favor and keeping our own from making the negotiations any harder - unless you think us taking out bandits is going to inflame the lord any further."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 11:57 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 04:55 AM)

"Let's go ask him and see if it will," Tris said, grinning. "But the bandits need to die whether it inflames him or not. Reichi, you get your wish. Gods speed you, and have fun killing bandits."

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 12:00 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Apr 30 2005, 05:57 AM)

"Let's go ask him and see if it will," Tris said, grinning. "But the bandits need to die whether it inflames him or not. Reichi, you get your wish. Gods speed you, and have fun killing bandits."

"Heh, good, uh, one problem," Reichi said. "How the hell do i find them?"

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 12:06 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Apr 30 2005, 06:00 AM)

"Heh, good, uh, one problem," Reichi said. "How the hell do i find them?"

"Ask the locals maybe," Loranna suggests. "Someone probably has at least the vague idea which way they went. From there, you can track them."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Apr 30 2005, 12:13 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 05:06 AM)

"Ask the locals maybe," Loranna suggests. "Someone probably has at least the vague idea which way they went. From there, you can track them."

"They're bandits," Tris said. "From my experience in Vvardenfell, bandits aren't too hard to find, if you're looking for them. Try the Dagger of Senses."

Posted by: Sir Radont Apr 30 2005, 12:13 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Apr 30 2005, 06:06 AM)

"Ask the locals maybe," Loranna suggests. "Someone probably has at least the vague idea which way they went. From there, you can track them."

Radont walks into the smithies building and sees his armor waiting for him. He picks it up and admires the craftsmanship. "Good work, I'll be sure to tell Mr. Leoriane of your skill." The knight said truthfully, handing over some coins for payment and a tip.

"You didn't happen to see what way the bandits went did you?" Radont asked as he donned his steel armor.

"They left the town heading east is all I know."

Posted by: Aki Apr 30 2005, 12:14 PM

"Bandits on Vvardenfell hide in caves, caves with overtly conspicuous doors," Reichi said. "I'll see if anyone knows where they went..."

Posted by: Loranna Apr 30 2005, 12:17 PM

Time to make a new thread.

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna