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The Elder Scrolls Forums _ Elder Scrolls Lore _ RP: Playing Houses

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 02:45 AM

[quote=Loranna,Oct 2 2005, 07:43 PM]
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:

Newcomers, we ask you to http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737&view=findpost&p=2871855 before starting up; everyone will be happier for it

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, Chatspike server). 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, on the Chatspike server. 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.

If you do not have MIRC, you can http://www.chatspike.net/?p=javairc. Enter in a nickname where prompted and hit Submit. You'll be asked if you want to trust the signed applet. Hit Yes, and you'll be in the main chatspike channel. From there, type /join #Loranna_RP

You'll enter our chat channel and we can talk to you.

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!

===

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 02:46 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 07:39 PM)

Goranthir kissed his grandmother's cheek, and opened the door. One of Barenziah's guards stepped into the room to guard her while she slept.

"Asking a queen born and bred why she seeks power," Goranthir whispered to Allerleirauh with a smile. "Is like asking a fish if he's drowning."

"I wish I thought more of Helseth," Allerleirauh said quietly, when they were no longer in earshot of the guards. "But... if he's to be tyrant someplace, this is the right place. There's more to it than simply a queen's ambition for her children. There's the Emperor dying, and the heirs already under attack as dopplegangers. She may be right, this may be the only way Morrowind will survive."

"If you two are done talking politics," Tris interrupted, "I've had a rotten day. Someone pet me."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 02:50 AM

After having little luck in reading any more of the note, Telera was quickly becoming frustrated with it when she thought of something, the Mages Guild, she needed someone who knew alchemy, someone who could tell her about potions, particularly whatever this one was and the Mages Guild should have some good alchemists that could help her with that.

Upon arriving at the Mages Guild, Telera forgot about looking for an alchemist when she saw Isidor and a woman she didn’t completely recognize walking away from him, she looked like Maranda, but there was definitely something very different about her from Maranda the way Telera remembered her. Walking up to Isidor, she greeted him, “Hey Isidor, how are the kids? And who was that woman? Kethiah will get jealous.”

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 4 2005, 02:51 AM

Summary:

Kratos the Ordinator is at the arena, taking a load off after the grueling labor he had participated in the night before.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 02:52 AM

ooc: Isidor, male nord, was talking with Maranda, but she's left. So, he's standing around Ald Raathim.

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 3 2005, 08:42 PM)

'I wouldn't blame you, shes a cute girl. She just has many insecurities, oh, and she is truly a delight to kiss. I almost got carried away last time, almost went full out,' she smiled and blushed, 'but even her beauty is dwarfed by that of my dear Jelsia. I hope... I truly do, she resolves the difficulties within her heart. That is what I was trying to do eariler today,' she looked at the sky, it was getting late, 'I must return back to Cyrodiil,' she gave Isidor a kiss on each cheek, and a third on the lips, and disspeared into the Mages Guild

"Bye." Isidor said, still a little shocked.

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 3 2005, 08:50 PM)

Isidor looked over to Telera-? Telera? "Um, the kids are fine. That was Maranda, Kethiah won't get jealous, I hope, and what happened to you?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 02:56 AM

Update

Kethiah is in the Dwemeri ruins of Vas, barely alive, if alive at all, following a fight with Herwyn.

Barenziah is resting in her room at Castle Daruhn, following an assassination attempt by House Indoril (or at least members of the House).

As for Goranthir ...

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 08:46 PM)

ooc summaries:
Allerleirauh, Tris, and Goranthir are in the castle at Ald Raathim, following a discussion with Barenziah.

Dragon is in the Void Outside Ald Raathim, watching to be sure the Queen Mother remains safe. Periodically he passes reports to Kallen.

Jelsia is in the Imperial City, doing her duties.
"I wish I thought more of Helseth," Allerleirauh said quietly, when they were no longer in earshot of the guards. "But... if he's to be tyrant someplace, this is the right place. There's more to it than simply a queen's ambition for her children. There's the Emperor dying, and the heirs already under attack as dopplegangers. She may be right, this may be the only way Morrowind will survive."

"If you two are done talking politics," Tris interrupted, "I've had a rotten day. Someone pet me."

Goranthir laughed a little loudly, making the guards jump. Tris's comment was perfect, the release from the anxiety of his lover and his grandmother arguing, and he gave him a hug.

"I was done talking politics before it started," he said. "I think my entire contribution to the discussion was to say 'Grandmother' ..."

Posted by: syronj Oct 4 2005, 02:56 AM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian, is talking to the Bosmer rogue Anya in Ald Raathim's castle.

"Why am I apologizing? Because I wasn't any help to you back at the tavern, when you were obviously upset. And maybe because I was bullying that Khajiit, even though she's probably someone's agent. . . . I don't like myself much when I'm a bully. Stupid thing for a battlemage to say, I know."

"Anya, whatever you decide to do, going to Cyrodiil or not . . . you know that I love you." Shaka looked at her with steady eyes.

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 02:57 AM

Summary:

Drakar is waiting outside Barenziah's room for Goranthir. Just how much he overheard of the conversation...... ???

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 07:39 PM)

"I trust the Queen Mother is well."

"I would have come in but I did not want to intrude.... It would have been rather awkward for me to have done so." he adds as he points out his simple cloathing.

Posted by: Aki Oct 4 2005, 02:58 AM

OOC Summary

Reichi is Ald Raathim, in the Drunken Guar, drinking and listening to bards and stuff. Typical tavern stuff. Yawn.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 02:59 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 08:57 PM)

Summary:
Drakar is waiting outside Barenziah's room for Goranthir. Just how much he overheard of the conversation...... ???
"I trust the Queen Mother is well."

"I would have come in but I did not want to intrude.... It would have been rather awkward for me to have done so." he adds as he points out his simple cloathing.

"She is well, thank you, Drakar of Khuum," Goranthir smiled. "This is Allerleirauh and Tris. You know them from the infamous pamphlet ..."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 05:52 PM)

ooc: Isidor, male nord, was talking with Maranda, but she's left. So, he's standing around Ald Raathim.

"Bye." Isidor said, still a little shocked.
Isidor looked over to Telera-? Telera? "Um, the kids are fine. That was Maranda, Kethiah won't get jealous, I hope, and what happened to you?"

“Maranda? Wow, she is looking nice. Different from last time I saw her in Sentinel. And that outfit is quite ...enchanting.” Telera said happily, “Just kidding about Kethiah, I’m sure she knows you love her by now. You did track her across High Rock to find her last time there were problems. Good to hear the kids are adjusting well.”

“What happened to me? Oh right, this. I drank something I shouldn’t have and this is what happened.” Telera did a pirouette. “Not sure exactly how it worked though.”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 07:59 PM)

"She is well, thank you, Drakar of Khuum," Goranthir smiled. "This is Allerleirauh and Tris. You know them from the infamous pamphlet ..."

"I know Redoran councillor Drakar quite well," Allerleirauh said. "Don't eavesdrop; it's not healthy."

Tris released Goranthir quickly.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 3 2005, 09:08 PM)

Isidor bowed back and said "You look ravishing, dear. Anyway to reverse it? I don't imagine you want to stay like this for very long."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 03:09 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 3 2005, 06:56 PM)

Anya sat down beside him and laid her head in his lap, "She stunk of pirates, and you were no bully. A bully would have been violent and threatening."

She closed her eyes. "Just hold me. I always feel safest when you do."

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 03:12 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 07:59 PM)

"She is well, thank you, Drakar of Khuum," Goranthir smiled. "This is Allerleirauh and Tris. You know them from the infamous pamphlet ..."

"Good to hear, though, I should have known not to bother to worry, The Queen Mother can take care of herself."

"Khuul." he laughs, "It's a rather 'small' fishing village in the West Gash."

"Yes, the 'pamplette' .... their names do seem familiar though. Can't quite place them......"

"A pleasure to meet you." he says as he nods.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 03:13 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 06:08 PM)

Isidor bowed back and said "You look ravishing, dear. Anyway to reverse it? I don't imagine you want to stay like this for very long."

Telera smiled at the compliment, “I don’t know. I don’t rightly know how it went one way, let alone if it goes the other. Potions aren't my forte.”

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:15 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 3 2005, 09:13 PM)

Telera smiled at the compliment, “I don’t know. I don’t rightly know how it went one way, let alone if it goes the other. Potions aren't my forte.”

"Ah. Maybe speak to Loranna later? She's a pretty good alchemist."

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 03:20 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 08:08 PM)

"I know Redoran councillor Drakar quite well," Allerleirauh said. "Don't eavesdrop; it's not healthy."

Tris released Goranthir quickly.

"Do you now? I can't seem to place you, but you are familiar."

"Not eavedropping. Just being polite. I can't help it if I have good ears. Much of what was said I know already or have guessed. I recently met with her. We agree on many things, just not how to acomplish it... Anyway, I'm not here on politcal business, but what I was talking to Goranthir before should make much more sense to him now."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 03:20 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 06:15 PM)

"Ah. Maybe speak to Loranna later? She's a pretty good alchemist."

“Yeah, talking to Loranna would probably be a good idea. Oh! I haven’t even mentioned my transformation to her yet!” Telera said. “I better do that. First I need to get some presentable clothes from the clothier. My old ones don’t fit quite right anymore.”

Telera skipped out of the door of the Mages Guild to go to the clothier.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 03:21 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:08 PM)

"I know Redoran councillor Drakar quite well," Allerleirauh said. "Don't eavesdrop; it's not healthy."

Tris released Goranthir quickly.

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 09:12 PM)

"I'm so sorry, Khuul," Goranthir corrected himself. "There seems to be a discrepancy about whether you know one another ..?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 4 2005, 03:21 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 09:09 PM)

"As long as you need, elf," he said, and passed a hand across her forehead, then cradled her head.

A part of Shaka had begun to worry for Isidor's sake. Why was there no word of Kethiah?

If Isidor had been unable to access Loranna's mirror in all the confusion this day, could Shaka still manage to do so? Even use the Amulet of Shadows to reach it?

Shaka dismissed the thought. There was still too much tension around the castle, with the attempt on Barenziah.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:22 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 3 2005, 09:20 PM)

Isidor laughed, shook his head, and continued to walk around Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 03:22 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 08:21 PM)

"I'm so sorry, Khuul," Goranthir corrected himself. "There seems to be a discrepancy about whether you know one another ..?"

"I know many people who do not know me," Allerleirauh said, looking down from her Nordic height.

"Why did you know about the attack Indoril was planning, and why did you wait until such a time to inform anyone? Why send Goranthir scurrying like a mole going to ground?"

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 03:26 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 08:21 PM)

"I'm so sorry, Khuul," Goranthir corrected himself. "There seems to be a discrepancy about whether you know one another ..?"

"No problem, I was sent to that 'forsaken' place to keep me 'busy'. I've grown to like it though."

"Maybe, there is much of my past I can't seem to recall, I should know her, I can feel that much. It just doesn't click yet."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 03:34 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 09:26 PM)

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:22 PM)

"What about her question?" Goranthir asked, looking from Drakar to Allerleirauh. "If you listened in on our discussion, you know that Allerleirauh is perfectly willing to grill the Queen Mother of Morrowind. You aren't immune either."

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 03:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 08:22 PM)

The Altmer is almost as tall as she is, so she doesn't have to look very far down.

"You don't expect me to reveal my sources do you. Please, have some consideration. I just knew that there was an attack planned soon. My information did not reveal when, where, who, or to what extent."

"Can never be too carefull..... I had no idea what was going to happen and haveing that 'former-Ordinater' Indoril around did not help matters..... there was something else, like we were being watched.... and I'm not talking about the Kajiit taking notes on everyone...."

QUOTE

"Sorry if I spooked you Goranthir, Maybe I was just being paranoid. I've been a little 'on-edge' lately."

"Grilled ? You meen Interogated, don't you ?" He smiles when he says that.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:50 AM

Isidor wandered back into the castle, and went to look for Loranna. Now that Barenziah was here, and a feast needed to be prepared, he assumed she would be in the hall, so that's where he went to look for her.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 03:53 AM

Summary for Loranna: Loranna is in Ald Raathim, having just recently accepted the Queen Mother into her castle and tending to her wounded guards, and then doing what she can to keep things running smoothly.

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 09:50 PM)

Isidor finds Loranna as she's looking over the hall. "Yes dear, what is it?" she asks, raising her eyebrows.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 09:53 PM)

Isidor finds Loranna as she's looking over the hall. "Yes dear, what is it?" she asks, raising her eyebrows.

"Not to be a bother," he said, looking at her, "but, may I have the use of your mirror for a short time? I want to see if Kethiah's all right."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 04:02 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 08:20 PM)

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 08:41 PM)

"You were eavesdropping, and you had the nerve to leer at us, as if to brag about it," Allerleirauh said. "Her majesty will be told that her guards need to keep people farther from the door. It's one thing to be a spy, another to be a cheeky spy. Why is Barenziah's grandson suddenly a friend of yours? Redoran has no great love for Helseth."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 04:03 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 09:55 PM)

"Not to be a bother," he said, looking at her, "but, may I have the use of your mirror for a short time? I want to see if Kethiah's all right."

Loranna says " ... I see; we can do that, yes." Isidor was worried about Kethiah; that was understandable. Loranna herself was a bit concerned for Kethiah as well under the circumstances.

She heads for her study, leading Isidor, her thoughts running along several tracks - how the Queen was doing, what might come up during her visit, what was going to happen afterward.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 04:05 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:03 PM)

"Oh, thank you." Isidor said, smiling in relief. When they reached the study, he looked at the mirror and said "Kethiah."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 04:14 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 10:05 PM)

"Oh, thank you." Isidor said, smiling in relief. When they reached the study, he looked at the mirror and said "Kethiah."

The image that appeared in the mirror was very dim. So dim, it appeared less a face than a flaw in the reflection.

But that wasn't. Isidor could recognize the curve of Kethiah's jawline, and then one of her eyes, half-open. The other was closed, clotted with blood. She was lying down, on a dark metal floor.

"Isi --"

The eye closed completely and the image, such as it was, vanished.

(OOC -- Outta here for a couple hours)

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 04:17 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:02 PM)

His voice drops to the quitet and calm tone, devoid of emotion.

"Your quite and interesting character.... Bragging and leering ? Now where are you getting that from ? .... Quite the Charmer you are. Gorathir said follow him and I did. I did not enter with him to see his Grandmother as a considreration. I was being polite. Not to mention my attire."

"I came here to offer my assistance to Goran, If he accepts it that is his business. I believe you know of what I'm talking about."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 04:19 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 3 2005, 10:14 PM)

Isidor's eyes opened wide in shock, and he looked as though he was going to be sick. "Kethiah." He whispered. He looked around wildely "I've got to ... go. Vas, is where she was last." He muttered "Thank you." to Loranna, then ran out of her study, to his room where he picked up his gear, and then to the docks, where he took the next boat to Vas. "Hang in there." Was all he kept saying.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 04:21 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 09:17 PM)

"I do," Allerleirauh said. "You didn't answer my question, though, which is why you would offer your assistance. And 'Goran,' how interesting; are you old companions?"

She smiled. "You came from a diplomatic meeting with Helseth. And so I know you know something of protocol. The Nordic way of dealing with someone who eavesdrops on a Queen discussing matters of state is to have the guards who allowed it horsewhipped, and cut the eavesdropper's head off. What is the custom in Redoran lands?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 04:23 AM

Anya opened her eyes rather suddenly, "I almost forgot. Excuse me Shaka, but I need to speak with Loranna."

She sat up and rubbed her eyes. Standing up, she walked to Loranna's study, passing a worried Isidor. "Loranna, do have a moment, again?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 04:28 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 3 2005, 10:19 PM)

Loranna is taken by surprise by Isidor's sudden departure - and curses herself for being taken by surprise by Isidor jumping up and running off like that.

"Nine be with you dear," she mutters to Isidor's absent backside. "I hope you know what you're doing ..."

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 10:23 PM)

Loranna was just resolving to tell Dragon about Isidor's departure when Anya shows up. "Uh, yes dear, what is it?" she asks, a touch of her resignation at Isidor's running off still in her voice.

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 04:34 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:21 PM)

"As to why, I have a 'feeling', I have explained everything to Goranthir. If that is not enough for you so be it."

"Protocol was to inform you 'politely' that I could hear you in there.... Consider it a nice way of saying that you should be more careful. If that does not answer you fears about me nothing will. If you 'Know' me as well as you say you do, thenyou 'know' what I am saying is true and honest."

"For the rest I 'could' consider that a threat, but, no, there is something else..... Is there anything else you wish to clear up ?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 04:39 AM

Falco Redflash, male argonian rogue, is currently on his ship somewhere Northeast of Solitude.

Eats-With-Claws, male argonian warrior, is currently working as one of the laborers in Ald Raathim. (and showing these nords a thing or two about heavy lifting)

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 04:41 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 09:34 PM)

"I know the acoustics of this place far better than you do," Allerleirauh said. "The walls are stone and the doors are oak, and there are no drafts. In addition, the door was well-guarded, by guards who are not deaf, and presumed loyal and discreet enough to keep visitors at a safe distance. If you would flourish and thrive, you would do better not to play games with me.

"Your feeling about Goranthir is one I share. Consider yourself lucky to have mentioned it."

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 04:52 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:41 PM)

"Oh, I think I understand... you two, oh, well, that explains things.... Not my business. So I'll end that there."

"Call the rest a gift or training or just a bad habbit, my point is if I can hear you there are others that can as well. Thick walls Oak doors are no guaentee. You might say for some they might as well not be there at all."

"You still have not answered as to how you know me. And I still can not place you even though I feel strongly that I should know you."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 04:55 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 08:28 PM)

Loranna was just resolving to tell Dragon about Isidor's departure when Anya shows up. "Uh, yes dear, what is it?" she asks, a touch of her resignation at Isidor's running off still in her voice.

Anya tilted her at Loranna, "I'm not... interupting anything, I hope? I have one thing that you need to know now, but my second thing can wait if I'm holding you back from something."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 05:04 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 10:55 PM)

Anya tilted her at Loranna, "I'm not... interupting anything, I hope? I have one thing that you need to know now, but my second thing can wait if I'm holding you back from something."

"No, you're not interupting anything," Loranna says, rubbing the back of her neck. "Just Isidor being Isidor ... what is it you need, dear?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 05:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 09:04 PM)

"No, you're not interupting anything," Loranna says, rubbing the back of her neck. "Just Isidor being Isidor ... what is it you need, dear?"

Anya sat done, "We have a new resident that enjoys writing. Writing things she shouldn't. As I told Shaka, she stunk of pirate. She tried to play coy with him when he talked to her, but forgot I was watching when she dropped the act. I thought you should know. She won't be leaving without me knowing though.

"Oh, and Falco seems to have gathered a little group of ill-meaning friends, I saw him leading a few around Daggerfall. Though they may just very well have been two entirely unrelated things."

Anya shifted slightly, "And I talked with Maranda again. She said I should take a... a... a hiatus from Shaka. And of course that it should be done at the House of Dibella. Then she should I should talk to you about it."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 05:14 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:09 PM)

Loranna mentally adds the pirate woman to the list of things to discuss with Dragon momentarily. "I see; thank you for keeping an eye on her," she says. "I'd like to know everything you've noticed about her."

"As for Falco ... he's not in Ald Raathim anymore," she continues, her face toying with a grimace. "Though I wouldn't mind knowing what he's up to ..."

She pauses a moment, frowning. "Was this a simple comment from Maranda?" she asks, tilting her head.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 05:28 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 09:14 PM)

"Le'see. She was a kahjiit, a Suthay-Raht to be more specific. She wore light armor, with several pouches surrounding it. Very quite. And good actor when confroted, played innocent quite well. Reminded me of, well, me, a few years back when I was running less than legit missions for the various houses. Lotus is watching the tavern, so I'll know when she's on the move or recalls."

"As for Maranda... no, this was no passing thought. She even told me who to look for, a preistess named... Jelsia?" Anya recalled, "She said I needed to take a good respite from him, to see if my feelings were true.

"Mostly, I'm not sure what the House of Dibella is about anymore... and I wanted to know more."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 05:42 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:28 PM)

I really need to get my spy system in place, Loranna thinks to herself. I've gone too long assuming that nothing I could do would stop people from knowing my business ...

... well, actually ... meh, worry about it later. "Jelsia, you say?" Loranna muses aloud. "That's the woman Maranda fell for, I thought ..."

She takes a deep breath, feeling somewhat inadequate to try and explain the purpose of the House of Dibella right now. "I can tell you that, despite appearances to the contrary, it's not all orgies and wine," she says to Anya with a small smile. "Did you know that Deothur was a virgin? Sex is part of the Temple but it's not the only part."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 05:52 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 09:42 PM)

"That's what Maranda said about Jelsia too."

Anya sat down, "Deothur? You mean the one from...?" she sighed, "Well, what else is there? Or who else could I talk to?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 06:02 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:52 PM)

"That's what Maranda said about Jelsia too."

Anya sat down, "Deothur? You mean the one from...?" she sighed, "Well, what else is there? Or who else could I talk to?"

"I, personally, would recommend talking to Harmann or Emaera in the House in the Imperial City," Loranna says. "Both are experienced priests, and pretty shrewd people to boot. Tris you could talk to as well; he's been a Dibellan for longer than I have and I always found his explanations helpful."

"Anyway, about Maranda ..." Loranna says, grimacing a bit. "I don't know what to tell you, but she seems to be coming on kind of strong, if you know what I mean. I'm attributing it to the zeal of the newly-converted, with a healthy dose of being head over heels for someone."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 06:04 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:02 PM)

"Thank you, Loranna. I have some more to think about." Anya stood up to leave, "Is there anything you would like me to do about the would-be spy? Even just to keep an eye on her?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 06:06 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:04 AM)

"Thank you, Loranna. I have some more to think about." Anya stood up to leave, "Is there anything you would like me to do about the would-be spy? Even just to keep an eye on her?"

"For the moment, keep an eye on her; I'm going to talk to a couple of people," Loranna says. "I'd like to know who this Khajiit is working for, at least ..."

"Thank you again dear, and good luck; I hope you find the answers you seek," Loranna says, smiling.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 06:14 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:06 PM)

Anya returned the smile, "So do I, Loranna."

She returned to the Tavern. She stood outside the door, until a few patrons stumbled out. Casting Invisible real quick, she slipped in unoticed.

Sitting in a booth that gave her a view of T'Zar, but left Anya out of view, she ordered a drink and waited. She used the time to think about where she wanted to go, "Tris huh...."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:23 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:14 PM)

"Hey."

Tris Gaerington slid into the booth beside Anya. It was pure coincidence. He just needed a drink, badly, before tonight's festivities. He wasn't in the mood to be alone, but he wasn't in the mood to watch his best friend snogging the General, either. And he didn't see anyone else he knew.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 06:28 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:23 PM)

"By the Nine, someone is watching over me." Anya said with a smile, her voice low, "It's been a decent spell since we last met. I suppose you had a hand in protecting the Queen?"

She sipped her drink, "If you wouldn't keeping quiet, I'm just enjoying the view of someone who enjoys eavesdropping where she shouldn't." Anya motioned towards T'Zar.

"I don't suppose you have some time to talk? It was reccomended that I seek your advice from Loranna."

Posted by: syronj Oct 4 2005, 06:33 AM

As the minutes stretched by following Anya's departure, Shaka decided not to wait for her to finish talking to Loranna and whoever else might be necessary. He left a note on Anya's door:

Recalled to the campsite. Meet me there, or send Lotus to fetch me, if anything changes in your situation . . . or Barenziah's, for that matter. Love, Shaka.

He gestured in the mudra of Recall and, with the usual slight nausea of even a short-range recall, found himself near the log bench in front of the yurt.

Shaka decided to meditate at the fishpond for a while. The living mosaic of brightly-colored fish echoed his memories as he tried to still his mind.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:33 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 09:52 PM)

Two hours previous:

"I never reveal my sources, either," Allerleirauh said. "We'll talk later."

She had business with Maranda. And it would be pleasant to have Goranthir alone for a few moments. The days events were enough to leave anyone rattled.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:36 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:28 PM)

"I was there, yeah," Tris said. "This is a day for eavesdroppers, isn't it? Should I step over and knock a few of her teeth down her throat? It would be my pleasure. Can't really talk about anything with someone writing it down."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 06:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:36 PM)

"Shaka gave her a startle earlier. And I made she I wasn't noticed when I entered. Besides, I was going to ask about the House of Dibella, unless you have some secrets you wish to keep about that."

Anya smiled, "But by all means, if it will lift your mood, I have no qualms against you knocking a few teeth."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:45 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:42 PM)

"You? Dibella? Why?"

Tris leaned forward. "She can't hear us from there if we speak softly. If she moves to a better spot, then I'll knock her teeth in."

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 06:47 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:33 PM)

Previously

Drakar nods in understanding

"Yes later, I look forward to it.... I see you two want to be alone, but before both you just leave me hanging around, where can I get some decent cloathing. I was in a bit of a hurry." he points to his attire.

"Maybe I should I just return to Khuul? I do have work to do." he adds

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 06:53 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:45 PM)

"You? Dibella? Why?"

Tris leaned forward. "She can't hear us from there if we speak softly. If she moves to a better spot, then I'll knock her teeth in."

Anya smiled, bemused with Tris' response, "Is it so hard to believe?"

"But yes. It's been suggested, by several people, that I should look to Dibella for... help."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:56 AM

QUOTE(Draak @ Oct 3 2005, 11:47 PM)

Drakar nods in understanding

"Yes later, I look forward to it.... I see you two want to be alone, but before both you just leave me hanging around, where can I get some decent cloathing. I was in a bit of a hurry." he points to his attire.

"Maybe I should I just return to Khuul? I do have work to do." he adds

Two hours earlier:

"There are shops in the town," Tris said, the first time he had spoken. He didn't care for people who acted all-knowing any more than Allie did, but he was far too tired to pick a fight.

"I believe there is a banquet in honor of her majesty later tonight," Allerleirauh said. "Perhaps you should speak to the Lady of the Castle about it."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 06:58 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 3 2005, 11:53 PM)

Anya smiled, bemused with Tris' response, "Is it so hard to believe?"

"But yes. It's been suggested, by several people, that I should look to Dibella for... help."

"Okay, let me see if I understand the situation," Tris said. "You were a slave, and your master used you for sex. Now you don't like sex. And Shaka won't leave you alone. Is that about the size of it?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 07:02 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:58 PM)

Anya arched an eyebrow, "Very blunt, I see. But, yes, that's the foremost problem I'm having. I don't care much for passion after seeing what can happen."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 07:08 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:02 AM)

Anya arched an eyebrow, "Very blunt, I see. But, yes, that's the foremost problem I'm having. I don't care much for passion after seeing what can happen."

"Sorry for being blunt," Tris said. "Seems to me trying to dance around the subject only makes it worse. I had a friend do that... tell me that something that happened to me was so awful he couldn't stand to hear it. And it made me feel absolutely filthy."

He took a long pull of his ale, Imperial ale, just in from the Capitol, to keep the imported workers happy.

"So do you care? I mean, if Shaka would leave you alone. Do you want passion? Do you miss it, feel jealous of other people, feel like you're less of a woman or something?"

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 07:13 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:56 PM)

Previously

"Thanks, I would like to, but I think it is better if I just leave. I would not want to impose myself, and I do have work to do."

"If I'm wanted you know where to find me."

Wanted and found he was, just then a messenger arrived.

"Never fails.... If you'll excuse me." He follows the messenger to the mages guild.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 07:14 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:08 PM)

"Maybe that's my problem, I've never just said what my problem is." Anya murmered.

"What I want, is to know why. I want to know why I tense up, why I crawl inside my mind and shut down, whenever we try to become more intimate. I want to know why everytime Maranda's kissed me, I wanted more. And most of all, I want to know if I'm just looking for a safe haven, or if I truly love him. I just don't know."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 07:23 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:14 AM)

Tris hid his mouth behind his mug for a good thirty seconds, thinking.

"All right. Maybe you did need to talk to a guy about this. And a guy like me, in particular. Why do you tense up and go hide in your secret place? I dunno, maybe because you were horribly abused as a child? Seems pretty damned likely. Why do you like to kiss Maranda? Maybe because women never hurt you, so women don't frighten you, and you've been starved for love all these years. Or maybe you were just born liking women and you never had a chance to notice before now, because your life has been such a mess in other ways.

"Now. About loving Shaka. Of course you love Shaka. And there's no 'just' about looking for a safe haven, it's the most sacred thing in the world, someone who makes you feel safe. But Shaka is a lizard. What is he planning to do with you anyway? Argonians reproduce using trees or something."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:26 AM

Two hours previous:

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 09:33 PM)

"I never reveal my sources, either," Allerleirauh said. "We'll talk later."

She had business with Maranda. And it would be pleasant to have Goranthir alone for a few moments. The days events were enough to leave anyone rattled.

Drakar left and Tris left, and they were alone.

"Would you like to go for a swim?" Goranthir asked.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:31 AM

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 09:06 PM)

A few moments after Anya left, Loranna heard the semi-familiar sound of the secret passage opening. Barenziah, looking more rested, stepped into the office.

"Is my timing all right?" the Queen Mother asked, smiling.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 07:34 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 12:26 AM)

Two hours previous:
Drakar left and Tris left, and they were alone.

"Would you like to go for a swim?" Goranthir asked.

"Jazbet's good spirit must hang over this place," Allerleirauh said, smiling. "Of course I would, how perfect."

The beach was sheltered from the ocean, the only path to it leading down from the castle, which was protected by Barenziah's people now. It was perhaps the safest place in Ald Raathim. She led the way, turned her back to Goranthir.

"Unlace me."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 07:37 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:31 AM)

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn
A few moments after Anya left, Loranna heard the semi-familiar sound of the secret passage opening. Barenziah, looking more rested, stepped into the office.

"Is my timing all right?" the Queen Mother asked, smiling.

Loranna reaches for a bottle of Wayrest wine, one she had ordered when she recieved word of the Queen's imminent arrival.

"It's perfect, Your Majesty," she says with a smile of her own, pouring a couple of glasses. "You look much better now, I'm glad to see."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:38 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:34 PM)

Goranthir did so, though perhaps not with much practiced grace. The sun was warm on their skin.

He put his arms around her waist. "You a good swimmer?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:42 AM

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:37 PM)

"That's sweet of you to say, my dear, but lately I've begun feeling old for the first time in my life, long past the time when I in fact became old, but still," Barenziah replied, still smiling, without any sadness. It was the smile of the wise woman. She took the wine, and smelled it. "But this is very nice. Thank you."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 07:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:23 PM)

Anya kept quite for a while, slowly finishing her drink as she absorded what he had said.

Finally she spoke up, "Thank you Tris. I think I just needed to here it staight out. And thank you for clearing up my misconceptions. But," she paused for a second, "Do you think I should go to the House of Dibella for help? Or should I look elsewhere?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 07:49 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:42 AM)

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn
"That's sweet of you to say, my dear, but lately I've begun feeling old for the first time in my life, long past the time when I in fact became old, but still," Barenziah replied, still smiling, without any sadness. It was the smile of the wise woman. She took the wine, and smelled it. "But this is very nice. Thank you."

"You're welcome, Your Majesty," Loranna says, taking up her own glass.

It was easy for her to see what Tris saw in Barenziah, or at least what Loranna thought Tris saw - even now, feeling old as she said she felt, she still exuded that sense of strength, that presence and beauty, that Loranna had noticed the first time they met, before the arena fights and the trip through the Spheres. Not for the first time, Loranna wishes she had been born earlier, to have been able to know Barenziah back in her younger days.

"What did you wish to talk about first, Your Majesty?" Loranna asks after a sip of her wine.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 07:50 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:42 AM)

"I think you should get a little drunk and find a girl who likes girls," Tris said. "In the House of Dibella, sure, it would cut down on searching. But that can seem so contrived. You need to know what you feel. And then... if you still want to overcome your fear of men... I'll take you to see Emaera, my confessor. She'll know people who can help. But maybe you wouldn't like sex with men no matter what happens. And if you and Shaka can't, well... why force the issue?"

He ordered another drink.

"You need to tell Shaka where to get off. I've watched him around you, Oh honey, I'll be good, and then he just won't leave it alone. I'm not saying break up with him. Just tell him no means NO. Not, pet me while I sleep, smooch me, give me a backrub, toerub, whatever else he can come up with to pressure you."

Tris stopped, wondering how much of this had happened in public, where he was supposed to see it. Well, there was always the book to blame. And Shaka had been just the same way before the 8 went to the Spheres.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:52 AM

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:49 PM)

"What did you wish to talk about first, Your Majesty?" Loranna asks after a sip of her wine.

"Well, let's get the favor out of the way," Barenziah replied. "It's a small thing, I hope, but I understand you are in possession of a ring you captured from a wicked little girl in Hammerfell. A ring of domination, which she used to enslave men. I would be very appreciative if you would give me that ring."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 07:52 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 12:38 AM)

Goranthir did so, though perhaps not with much practiced grace. The sun was warm on their skin.

He put his arms around her waist. "You a good swimmer?"

Allerleirauh laughed in reply, remembering the towering waves off the coast of Skyrim, battling in an icy paradice with seals and horned whales.

"Good enough for whatever you're thinking of," she said.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 07:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 10:52 PM)

"Then you better give me a head start!" Goranthir laughed, pulling her back so she was off balance, and then running into the surf, tearing off his clothes as he went.

Posted by: Draak Oct 4 2005, 07:57 AM

Gnisis

The council had been looking for Drakar for some time now. They were eager for an explanation. They had just recently heard about the attack on the Queen Mother.

Chair: "Our information is vague, just what is going on" he said angrily at Drakar
Drakar: "There was an attack by the Indoril, seems to be isolated. I have not heard of any other attacks."
Chair: "Damn it, what the hell were they thinking. This could get out of hand quickly."
Drakar: "Agreed, that is why we need to work even harder, and we need more information, something tells me that things are not as they appear, something else is behind this. I don't think this was sanctioned or it would have been an all out attack. This was singular and specific, not what any of us were expecting."
Chair: "There is still no word from our Emmisary to the Indoril or the people we sent to investigate. I don't like this. Theese were some of the best people we had, we should have heard something from them by now."
Drakar: "I'll investigate personally, you need to decide on the allience, Helseth will want an answer fairly quickly now, we are running out of time."
Chair: "I can't believe you got as much as you did, but still it is not acceptable as is."
Drakar: "Barenziah was involved."
Chair: "Then we need you here."
Drakar: "If you are willing to seriously discuss this, then let us begin."

The groundwork for the objections was already clearly laid out. They set to work and their discusions. Perhaps he had been right to leave them to themselves, maybe it was only a matter of time, but time was in short supply now. Perhaps there was some hope after all. Just maybe.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 07:58 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:52 AM)

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn
"Well, let's get the favor out of the way," Barenziah replied. "It's a small thing, I hope, but I understand you are in possession of a ring you captured from a wicked little girl in Hammerfell. A ring of domination, which she used to enslave men. I would be very appreciative if you would give me that ring."

Loranna blinks, evidentally not having expected Barenziah to ask for that.

"That ring," she says, thinking back to Selvia and her manslaves, and all the surrealness that surrounded their adventure in Hammerfell. A non-plussed look crosses Loranna's face briefly ...

" ... o . Of course," Loranna says, after realizing she just spent several long seconds sitting in front of Barenziah and wondering what on Nirn had possessed Selvia to come up with such a mad scheme in the first place, and the very sudden realization that even small favors asked by Queen Mothers aren't lightly refused. "It's secured someplace right now; I can get it at your convenience ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 08:02 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 12:57 AM)

"Then you better give me a head start!" Goranthir laughed, pulling her back so she was off balance, and then running into the surf, tearing off his clothes as he went.

A race wasn't what Allerleirauh had thought Goranthir was thinking of... but she was pleased to give him one, and she had the advantage of being already naked. She sliced through the water like a dolphin.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:03 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 10:58 PM)

"Good," Barenziah replied, settling into a chair with her wine. "May I add how extremely refreshing it is that you didn't ask what I wanted it for? Your friend Allerleirauh would have tortured me for information about my motivations and plots ... She's a remarkable person, and I can see why my grandson is so in love with her, but ..."

She laughs, and it is a young woman's laugh.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 08:05 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:50 PM)

Anya giggled, "Get drunk and find a girl? That's the advice I was sent to seek? You're cute Tris, you really are."

Anya finished her mug, "I'll do what you suggest, so far it's better than anything I've thought of." she held up her empty glass, "I'm already on my way. Emaera was another person Loranna suggested as well. Thank you, Tris. I think I've finally found some progress without more questions. Shall we share one more drink?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 08:09 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 02:03 AM)

"Well, I am curious ..." Loranna says, looking a little chagrined, in part for her not thinking to ask, in part for admitting she was curious, and in part because Barenziah is Brenziah.

"Allie is Allie," she continues. "She's a good woman, and a remarkable one, as you say." She changes the subject. "Was there anything else you wished to discuss, Your Majesty?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 08:13 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:05 AM)

"Sure, why not," Tris said. "My best friend is boffing my other best friend, it's a perfect time to get drunk."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:13 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:02 PM)

Goranthir had explored the floor of the bay back before the adventure in the spheres. It was what he had been doing when he had risen suddenly, surprising Tris, who had been skinny-dipping, while Goranthir had been using his newly-enchanted clothing to breathe underwater. This was a different way of exploring, not encumbered by clothing, but not able to breathe ... He had to take quick breaths to dive further and further.

It was some distance into the bay that he found what he wanted to show Allerleirauh. It was the husk of an ancient vessel, Nordic in design, probably left over from the original inhabitants of Ald Raathim, the ones who built the castle.

Any real treasure it had held was long since lost. Bright coral had grown around it, and even brighter fish had made it their home. It was a beautiful, but slightly bizarre sight, and something he had never forgotten. It was something he had to share, since he knew few had seen it.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 08:19 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:13 AM)

"Sure, why not," Tris said. "My best friend is boffing my other best friend, it's a perfect time to get drunk."

Anya smiled at Tris, "Sometimes I forget I'm not the only person with problems." she said as she waved down a waitress. "A toast to a world that refuses to play fair?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:19 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 11:09 PM)

"Oh, I am sure you are curious," Barenziah smiled. "But you're not suspicious. I may be the only monarch to give you this advice, but don't lose that, Loranna. It may mean that your sovereigncy in Ald Raathim is not a long one, because paranoiacs last longer, but it will be a happier one."

Barenziah's eyes had softened too. She did not appear merely to be speaking to Loranna, but to herself, giving herself advice. Or maybe her daughter, Morgiah. Or Goranthir. Or someone else entirely.

"I'm sorry, my dear, I suppose it's this new old age of mine that I seem to have discovered, but my mind wanders," the Queen Mother chuckled. "I suppose we should talk of assassinations and war and plots, but this wine is too excellent for that ... How is that young man of yours, Slyvos?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 08:22 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:13 AM)

"Amazing. Is this what Drakar was wanting to salvage?" Allerleirauh asked, on one of their trips to the surface for breath. "Or is this find all your own?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:25 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:22 PM)

"Amazing. Is this what Drakar was wanting to salvage?" Allerleirauh asked, on one of their trips to the surface for breath. "Or is this find all your own?"

"I discovered it," Goranthir replied, out of breath, with a bit of teenage pride. "Or ... at least, no one showed it to me ... Don't think it's much for salvage though. It's just beautiful, and I wanted to share it."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 08:30 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 02:19 AM)

Loranna hesitates for a moment, before nodding. "I will remember your advice, Your Majesty," she says, her eyes looking full of ponderous thoughts for a moment.

"Slyvos is doing well; we're working on our wedding plans in between the construction efforts," Loranna says, a smile coming to her face at Barenziah's comment on Slyvos's youth. "He's become a bit more relaxed; last time you were here he didn't want to attract notice to himself, and today he actually came forward to greet you."

Loranna doesn't mention the session in the House of Dibella that had led to Slyvos's increased relaxedness.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 08:32 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:19 AM)

Anya smiled at Tris, "Sometimes I forget I'm not the only person with problems." she said as she waved down a waitress. "A toast to a world that refuses to play fair?"

"Why not," Tris said. The ale wasn't helping. He was remembering the sound of a woman's neck popping in his fingers. But he didn't feel like bringing Anya down, talking about it.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 08:35 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:25 AM)

"It is beautiful," Allerleirauh said. She concentrated for a moment; it was hard to stay afloat and cast spells. Then cast a water breathing spell over the two of them. "Let's go down for a closer look."

She touched him, to be sure he knew what she meant, this time.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 11:30 PM)

"Oh, yes, I remember, giving poor Ulymir quite the shock," Barenziah laughed. "That's wonderful. Of course, you'll be coming to Helseth's wedding to Dinara, I hope. Having the right partner to shoulder your burden can be such a blessing. I am glad Slyvos has decided to become a more active consort. Is he your only lover?"

Barenziah gasped at herself, putting her hand over her mouth. "My dear child, forgive me. What a frightfully personal question!"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:35 PM)

Goranthir knew Allerleirauh's touches, every one of them in a vast vocabulary of nonverbal communication. In four days in Cyrodiil, he had learned that language fluently.

Beneath the waves, his red-golden hair floating in the currents, he kissed her, running his finger through her tendrils of silver.

Underwater, making love weightless, out in the open and yet encased in liquid, it was an experience mere mortals do not have.

Fade out.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 08:46 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 02:36 AM)

Loranna's eyes widen, and she covers her mouth to hide her grin; her chuckles shake her body, however.

"I'd be honored to attend your son's and soon to be daughter-in-law's wedding, Your Majesty," she says after a moment. "Though I fear, if anyone tries anything foolish like at the last wedding I attended I'll need to be held back from throwing them out a window. And Nine help anyone who thinks to disrupt my wedding ..."

"As for how many lovers I have currently ..." Loranna simply smiles. "At the moment, it's just Slyvos and myself. And I forgive you for asking, Your Majesty."

The last was said with a mischevious twinkle in Loranna's eye, and a laugh. "Now if I may ask, how are things in Mournhold?"

She keeps her thoughts about the possibility for additional lovers to herself.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 08:55 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 3 2005, 11:46 PM)

The last was said with a mischevious twinkle in Loranna's eye, and a laugh. "Now if I may ask, how are things in Mournhold?"

She keeps her thoughts about the possibility for additional lovers to herself.

"Dinara, or Vendama I suppose still, she sends her love," Barenziah replied. "Her brother was there when I left, a most delightful young man. Helseth has taken to showing off his health to visiting dignitaries in order to prove them he isn't dying -- he actually greets them while sparring. It's brilliant, talking to someone of peace while bloodying your partner's nose for effect," Barenziah chuckles again, a proud mother. "Besides that, it's the usual diplomacy, receptions, and skullduggery."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 09:02 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 02:55 AM)

"Obael is a fine young man, yes," Loranna agrees. "Tell Vendama I send my love back and look forward to seeing her again soon - and that I'm practicing calling her Your Majesty."

She chuckles a bit at the tale of Helseth's negotiations. "Your son is a sharp mer, Your Majesty; I wish he and I had met under friendlier circumstances," she says, actually meaning it. "I'll have to remember that tactic ..."

Her expression grows a little more serious, as she says softly "Though, not everyone seems to have taken it the right way ..."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 4 2005, 12:02 AM)

"No," Barenziah nodded, taking a sip of her wine. "We talk of love, but that does not make war less of a reality. If Tris had not been there, I don't doubt that I would be dead now. It was certainly the closest call I've had in decades, since Wayrest ... "

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:10 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 3 2005, 11:32 PM)

"Why not," Tris said. The ale wasn't helping. He was remembering the sound of a woman's neck popping in his fingers. But he didn't feel like bringing Anya down, talking about it.

After buying some clothes that fit better, mostly plainer clothes suitable for traveling or sparring. Telera had also picked out some finer attire with the aid of the clothier, including some dresses that were a bit more revealing than Telera had intended to purchase. Retreating to her room with her purchases, sans the ones that had been fitted and were being cut to her measurements, she changed into a blouse and skirt of good quality.

Time to go and introduce herself to some of the people she had known as Teleran and see how they responded to Telera. She realized that she didn’t have her usual store of daggers with her in these clothes as she walked back into town. She felt almost naked without those sheathed about her. After a quick check to make sure she wasn’t, in fact, naked she continued walking. She wasn’t planning on fighting. Once again to the Drunken Guar to see who was around, while it was worrying that people spent so much time there, it was convenient for finding people.

She entered the tavern and went to the bar for a drink before surveying the room for familiar faces while making her mug circle through the air in front of her, careful not to spill.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:13 AM

Allerleirauh:

There was one bit of business Allerleirauh wanted to take care of before the evening's festivities. She found Maranda at the Mage's Guild, sitting and talking.

"Maranda," she said. "You're looking well. May I have a moment in private?"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 4 2005, 09:15 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 06:13 PM)

'Certianly,' Maranda said smiling, and guesturing to a nearby room, She walked in, as her Ferret poped his head out of her bag. She pulled him out and started to pet his head, 'So what do you want to discuss, Allerleirauh?'

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:17 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:10 AM)

After buying some clothes that fit better, mostly plainer clothes suitable for traveling or sparring. Telera had picked out some finer attire with the aid of the clothier, including some dresses that were a bit more revealing than Telera had intended to purchase. Retreating to her room with her purchases, sans the ones that had been fitted and were being cut to her measurements, she changed into a blouse and skirt of good quality, like a .

Time to go and introduce herself to some of the people she had known as Teleran and see how they responded to Telera. She realized that she didn’t have her usual store of daggers with her in these clothes as she walked back into town. She felt almost naked without those sheathed about her. After a quick check to make sure she wasn’t, in fact, naked she continued walking. She wasn’t planning on fighting. Once again to the Drunken Guar to see who was around, while it was worrying that people spent so much time there, it was convenient for finding people.

She entered the tavern and went to the bar for a drink before surveying the room for familiar faces while making her mug circle through the air in front of her, careful not to spill.

"Someone likes to show off," Tris said, tilting his head. "Pretty girl, too."

He stood up, to greet the newcomer.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 09:17 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:09 AM)

"I know how close calls feel," Loranna says, sympathetically. "I'm glad Tris was there."

She clears her throat. "Forgive me for being direct and demanding now, Your Majesty, but - just how long do you think we have before this isolated incident leads to overt conflict? And when it does, who do you see on which side?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:18 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:17 AM)

"Someone likes to show off," Tris said, tilting his head. "Pretty girl, too."

He stood up, to greet the newcomer.

Goranthir followed Telera in as well, having walked with Allerleirauh as far as the Mages Guild. He had noticed her in the streets, and felt a little guilty admiring her figure so soon after making love to Allerleirauh. Not that Allie would have minded, but by the nine, his hair was still wet.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:19 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:17 AM)

"Someone likes to show off," Tris said, tilting his head. "Pretty girl, too."

He stood up, to greet the newcomer.

"Aw Tris, he doesn't know the first thing about what he's doing." Anya said, smiling coyly, "Welcome back Telera."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:19 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 4 2005, 02:15 AM)

"Ooooh, I love ferrets," Allerleirauh said, momentarily setting aside her business. "May I hold him?"

She handed Maranda a printed flyer, about the Queen of Firsthold, and Goranthir.

"Do you know anything about this?"

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:20 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:17 AM)

"Someone likes to show off," Tris said, tilting his head. "Pretty girl, too."

He stood up, to greet the newcomer.

Turning at Anya’s mention of her name, Telera greeted them, “Hi Tris. Hi Anya. How are you today?”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:22 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 02:18 AM)

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 02:19 AM)

"Aw Tris, he doesn't know the first thing about what he's doing." Anya said, smiling coyly, "Welcome back Telera."

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:20 AM)

Turning at Anya’s mention of her name, Telera greeted them, “Hi Tris. Hi Anya. How are you today?”

Tris started to wave to Goranthir, then stopped, struck by the name Anya had said.

"Telera?" he said. "TELERA? What in Oblivion are you doing?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:24 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 01:20 AM)

Turning at Anya’s mention of her name, Telera greeted them, “Hi Tris. Hi Anya. How are you today?”

"Could be better, but then I could be worse."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:24 AM

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 4 2005, 12:17 AM)

"I hope we have time eternal," Barenziah replied. "Assassination attempts do not automatically lead to war ... But if you'd like to know who our allies are, should it come to that, two of the Houses, Dres and Telvanni are assuredly with us. Hlaalu is divided. Redoran has not declared itself. Indoril ... well ... I certainly didn't anticipate this, but they have not been friendly."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:25 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:22 AM)

Tris started to wave to Goranthir, then stopped, struck by the name Anya had said.

"Telera?" he said. "TELERA? What in Oblivion are you doing?"

“Drinking?” Telera said nervously.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:26 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:22 AM)

Tris started to wave to Goranthir, then stopped, struck by the name Anya had said.

"Telera?" he said. "TELERA? What in Oblivion are you doing?"

Goranthir burst into laughter. "Is it Tales and Tallows already?"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 4 2005, 09:26 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 06:19 PM)

Maranda handed her ferret over to Allie as she took the flyers, 'News travels fast I see... with all these guild guides zapping people from one place to another, its hard to keep somthing localized. I shall tell you what I know, you remember the Temple Priestess Jelsia who you took to Firsthold with you? Of course you do. She became, well quite upset and feared for her life. And so, she asked my assistance to print this flyer. And I assisted her, although I definatly did not want the information of your names on the Flyer, Jelsia INSISTED. You see,' she handed the flyer back to Allie, 'She is afraid. She does not see herself as a brave person, she was scared to Oblivion when you were taken prisoner in Firsthold, she was scared that the queen of Firsthold would hunt her down and kill her. She was scared of you. Most of all, she was angry that you did not tip her,' she stopped, to let Allie reply, but it was clear by her voice that there was more.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:27 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:25 AM)

“Drinking?” Telera said nervously.

"Why are you a woman?" Tris demanded. His face was red. Telera had seen him this angry once before... in the Vaults of Gemin, after an incident involving spears.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 09:28 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:24 AM)

Loranna's Office, Castle Daruhn
"I hope we have time eternal," Barenziah replied. "Assassination attempts do not automatically lead to war ... But if you'd like to know who our allies are, should it come to that, two of the Houses, Dres and Telvanni are assuredly with us. Hlaalu is divided. Redoran has not declared itself. Indoril ... well ... I certainly didn't anticipate this, but they have not been friendly."

"True, this," Loranna admits.

"You're heard about various Redoran nobles pulling out of business arrangements with other nobles of my House, yes?" Loranna asks, certain that Barenziah has, but feeling an urge to ask none the less.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:29 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 4 2005, 02:26 AM)

Allerleirauh shook her head. She looked more amused than annoyed. "I should have tipped her. But she left too quickly."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:29 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:27 AM)

"Why are you a woman?" Tris demanded. His face was red. Telera had seen him this angry once before... in the Vaults of Gemin, after an incident involving spears.

“It-it was an accident,” Telera blurted. She continued hurriedly, “I was sorting my potions and went to drink one, picked up the wrong one and it did this. It was an accident.”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:32 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:29 AM)

“It-it was an accident,” Telera blurted. She continued hurriedly, “I was sorting my potions and went to drink one, picked up the wrong one and it did this. It was an accident.”

"You drank a potion?" Tris said. "You... drank... a... POTION?"

He was so angry his hands were starting to shake, so he balled them into fists.

"Just like Gemin. Just like. You never think about anything, do you, it's like a kitten bouncing off the walls of a box. You do know polymorph potions are illegal. I should turn you in, you irresponsible..."

He lost his voice for a moment, then realized, quite suddenly, that he was making a fool of himself in public.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:34 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 4 2005, 12:28 AM)

Barenziah frowned. "Yes, I know. No one is suffering yet -- I've been generous with the royal treasury to more territories than just Ald Raathim -- but the message seems to be clear. On the other hand, we had a very positive meeting with a member of the Redoran council, and he seems optimistic a comprimise can be reached ... Still, you are correct that my estimation of them should have been phrased 'Redoran have not declared themselves, but appear hostile.'"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 4 2005, 09:35 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 06:29 PM)

Allerleirauh shook her head. She looked more amused than annoyed. "I should have tipped her. But she left too quickly."

'She'll be pleased when I get back that your not angry with her,' Maranda sighed, 'But I did not want it to turn out this way. Tell me, if you could do anything to protect the person you love, would you? I wanted to protect her, I offered myself as her body guard, I even joined the Order of the lily to try and make her feel safer, so she would not have to publish the letter, and yet,' she paused, 'she still did not feel safe even then. She still fears the wrath of the Queen of Firsthold, but now, I feel she thinks the direction of the wrath is turned away from her, onto you.' she paused, waiting for reply

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:36 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:32 AM)

He lost his voice for a moment, then realized, quite suddenly, that he was making a fool of himself in public.

Goranthir had ceased laughing. He couldn't imagine why Tris was this angry about something so ridiculous, but it must have other meaning he wasn't understanding. He looked to Tris with raised eyebrows.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:36 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:32 AM)

“Gemin? That’s where the potion was from. I didn’t know what it di-polymorph potion? Is that what it is?” Telera said, shrinking back from Tris. Adding in a weak voice, "Illegal?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:37 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:32 AM)

He lost his voice for a moment, then realized, quite suddenly, that he was making a fool of himself in public.

Anya tugged on Tris' sleeve, "Why don't you sit down, and finish your drink?"

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 01:36 AM)

Anya motioned to Goranthir if he was thirsty, too.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:37 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 4 2005, 02:35 AM)

Allerleirauh considered various things she might say, then simply put her arms around Maranda. The ferret scrambled from her shoulder onto Maranda's.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:41 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:37 AM)

Anya motioned to Goranthir if he was thirsty, too.

Goranthir just shook his head, watching.

Posted by: Shardie Oct 4 2005, 09:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 06:37 PM)

Allerleirauh considered various things she might say, then simply put her arms around Maranda. The ferret scrambled from her shoulder onto Maranda's.

Maranda did the same, hugging back, 'For Jelsia, From Me, to you, Tris and Goran, please forgive her for this act of sillyness, and please forgive me for helping her. She thought it was the right thing to do, I should have acted as her logical stop. Instead I let the letter be published, so please forgive me for my part in this sillyness'

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:42 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:36 AM)

“Gemin? That’s where the potion was from. I didn’t know what it di-polymorph potion? Is that what it is?” Telera said, shrinking back from Tris. Adding in a weak voice, "Illegal?"

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 02:37 AM)

Anya tugged on Tris' sleeve, "Why don't you sit down, and finish your drink?"
Anya motioned to Goranthir if he was thirsty, too.

"Thanks, Anya, I think it's obvious I've had enough on an empty stomach. Tele...ra... I shouldn't have yelled at you that way. And I'm not going to turn you in, that would be ridiculous after all we've seen together."

He did sit down, though.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 09:43 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:34 AM)

Loranna's smile doesn't quite touch her eyes. "Thank you Your Majesty," she says.

"As it turns out, there's a Redoran here in Ald Raathim - one Drakar. I keep meaning to meet with him for more than a moment, but events keep coming up," she admits.

So, two Houses for the crown, two Houses seemingly hostile, and one - the one with traditionally the strongest ties to the Empire, and yet also strong ties to the Camona Tong - undecided. Loranna finds herself thinking the odds of open conflict were better than she liked.

"Interesting times coming ahead," she remarks, sipping her wine.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:46 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:42 AM)

"Polymorphing by means of spells or potions has been illegal since the time of Jagar Tharn," Tris said, in a much quieter voice. "No one wanted to risk another imposter like that. And besides, it's dangerous. Does strange things to the body. Sometimes has unexpected effects, like not wearing off in the proper amount of time. Or you turn back, but into something quite unlike yourself."

He seemed to know a lot about it.
"Thanks, Anya, I think it's obvious I've had enough on an empty stomach. Tele...ra... I shouldn't have yelled at you that way. And I'm not going to turn you in, that would be ridiculous after all we've seen together."

He did sit down, though.

“Oh, I didn’t know that, or what it was,” Telera said, looking into her mug rather than at Tris, “Wait, they usually wear off? How common is it that they don’t wear off?”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:46 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 4 2005, 02:41 AM)

"It will be all right," Allerleirauh said. "Goranthir worries that he's lost his leverage over his mother. That's not quite the case. His father won't believe the letter, if it reaches him. He might still believe Goranthir's word. If he doesn't, then Goranthir never did have leverage."

She stroked Maranda's back. "I'm happy for you, finding Jelsia, joining the Lily Knights. They are an ancient and honorable society, and for all their frivolity, they have the right of it; beauty is worth defending. You seem stronger now, and I hope you will not lose your way again."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 09:50 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:46 AM)

“Oh, I didn’t know that, or what it was,” Telera said, looking into her mug rather than at Tris, “Wait, they usually wear off? How common is it that they don’t wear off?”

"Common enough that I was warned not to risk it," Tris said. "By someone who doesn't even like me very much."

He considered the rest of his drink, and then drank it.

Posted by: Shardie Oct 4 2005, 09:52 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 06:46 PM)

Maranda nodded her head, and placed Ferrety back in her bag, 'If your ever in Cyrodiil, do come visit. I'll see if I can make my way to back to Ald Raatham once in a while, and if you want me for any reason, dont hesitate to call,' she bowed low, gave allie a light kiss on the lips, and cheekily skipped over to the Guild Guide, paying the money for the trip to the Imperial City

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:54 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 12:50 AM)

"Common enough that I was warned not to risk it," Tris said. "By someone who doesn't even like me very much."

He considered the rest of his drink, and then drank it.

“Oh,” Telera said slowly, before following Tris’s example and draining her drink too. “Wait. Why did you need warning against using one?”

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 09:56 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 4 2005, 12:43 AM)

"Drakar?" Barenziah raised an eyebrow, and then finished off her wine. "Thank you, Loranna, for your delightful company, for agreeing to give me the ring, and for the banquet which I understand you are hosting for me. I should rest a bit more and then make myself halfway presentable. Naturally, my son sent me all the wrong gowns for the season, but we will simply make due."

The Queen Mother rose, kissed Loranna on the cheek, and made her way back to the secret entrance that led to her room.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 10:01 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:56 AM)

Loranna kisses Barenziah back on her cheek, smiling and bidding the Queen good evening. When the Queen had been out of her room for at least a moment, Loranna releases the breath she had been holding, slowly.

I wonder what she knows of Drakar, she thinks to herself, or if this is just an odd coincidence ... I should look into what Drakar's been up to. That's - what, three things now, to talk to Dragon about ...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:02 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:54 AM)

“Oh,” Telera said slowly, before following Tris’s example and draining her drink too. “Wait. Why did you need warning against using one?”

"Yeah," Tris said, not answering Telera's question. "I think I'm drunk. I'll see you people at dinner tonight."

He stood up, and made his way to the door.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 10:05 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:02 AM)

"Yeah," Tris said, not answering Telera's question. "I think I'm drunk. I'll see you people at dinner tonight."

He stood up, and made his way to the door.

"Are you drunk, Tris?" Goranthir asked, as Tris came towards him. "Or just don't want any company? I wanted to at least thank you for saving my grandmother's life ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:08 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:05 AM)

"Are you drunk, Tris?" Goranthir asked, as Tris came towards him. "Or just don't want any company? I wanted to at least thank you for saving my grandmother's life ..."

"C'mon, you," Tris said. "I should tell you about that. Walk me back to the castle."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 10:10 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:08 AM)

"C'mon, you," Tris said. "I should tell you about that. Walk me back to the castle."

"Okay," Goranthir replied with half a smile. "But if you are actually drunk, let me know ... You seem more in an odd mood than drunk ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:16 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:10 AM)

"Okay," Goranthir replied with half a smile. "But if you are actually drunk, let me know ... You seem more in an odd mood than drunk ..."

"I'm more wishing I was drunk and pretending to be drunk than actually drunk," Tris said, as they walked through the town. "I've been wanting to get drunk tonight for all the wrong reasons - to take my mind off things. I think I need to cut back, or I'll be as bad as my father. It was a fight, Goranthir. Four ships on one. A lot of your grandmother's people died before I even reached the deck. Then her ship went down, and I thought she was on it. It was Gemin all over again. So I did what I could - boosted my strength, and my skill at sword - and my sword broke in my hand. So I kept going with my hand. And then I sort of lost my mind for a while, and couldn't do that again. It's been a very long day."

Talking about the battle was almost refreshing, because it meant he was avoiding the real subject.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 10:22 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:02 AM)

"Yeah," Tris said, not answering Telera's question. "I think I'm drunk. I'll see you people at dinner tonight."

He stood up, and made his way to the door.

"See you at dinner, Tris," Telera said, wondering at the omission. Telera moved to the table Anya was sitting at after getting another drink. "Hope you don't mind if I join you."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 10:26 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:16 AM)

Goranthir nodded slowly. "I can understand that a little. You became an animal, a predator ... and I've talked to a few of those. I've talked to beasts who consume their prey while they're still alive, and they can feel the hearts beating even as they digest ... You can't always see it, but they all shed tears, predator and prey alike."

He swallowed hard, "It's not the same thing, hearing about it from you or them, as experiencing it, of course, I know that. But they did it, knowing they had to, just like you did. Very bitter consolation, I suppose."

Goranthir looked at Tris with the same half-smile. "And that has to be the most grotesque example of attempting empathy ever ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:33 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:26 AM)

"You're okay," Tris said, putting an arm around his waist and tugging him off balance. "You're not asking me awkward questions. I've always been squeamish, Dragon used to yell at me about it. Don't like hitting, don't like getting hit. Hate the smell of blood. If some men are born sheep, and some are wolves, I'm a sheep. But I manage all right. I just needed to talk to someone, get it out of the dark where I could see the shape of it. Now I'm myself again."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 10:36 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:33 AM)

Goranthir laughed, a little ticklish. "Yes, I can tell. And if you're a sheep, there's one worried shepherd out there ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:45 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:36 AM)

Goranthir laughed, a little ticklish. "Yes, I can tell. And if you're a sheep, there's one worried shepherd out there ..."

They had reached the dark path leading to the castle.

"I keep running off and jumping off cliffs and that sort of thing," Tris said. "I'm a very bad sheep."

He was drunk enough, and emotional enough, that it was hard work keeping his hands to himself. Self-restraint was possible, but filled him with a deep sense of grief.

"I shouldn't have yelled at Teleran," he said, half-smiling himself. "It's not like it would have made any difference."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 10:52 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:45 AM)

"I shouldn't have yelled at Teleran," he said, half-smiling himself. "It's not like it would have made any difference."

"Probably not, but I think he or she was more alarmed about the possibility of doing something illegal, and much more alarmed about the possibility of not changing back than the relative loudness of your tone," Goranthir grinned. "You didn't answer his question, though -- why did you want to polymorph yourself? I can't think of anyone more comfortable in his body than you."

He paused, the smile leaving his face. "I'm sorry, Tris ... It was when you lost your foot, right?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 10:54 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 03:52 AM)

Tris avoided the easy lie he had been offered.

"I do like this body," he said carefully, watching the moonlit path ahead. "But you don't."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 11:10 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 01:54 AM)

Tris avoided the easy lie he had been offered.

"I do like this body," he said carefully, watching the moonlit path ahead. "But you don't."

It took a moment for Goranthir to understand. "Oh," he said. He blushed. "I'm sorry, Tris, that's ... an overwhelming compliment ..."

He thought on Tris's body. He pictured the muscles, the scars, everything he had seen at the beach so long ago, before he knew how Tris had felt.

"I'm glad that cliff was one you didn't jump over," he said. His hand touched the base of Tris's neck. "I wouldn't be able to live with myself if you damaged yourself because of me."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 11:13 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 04:10 AM)

"I'm sorry," Tris said. "I'm trying to be a good friend. Not to be... creepy. But it's not getting any easier, and I'm exhausted. Bryn, he deals in illegal potions, sells undetectable potions to Arena competitors. He made me an offer. But then he backed out, said he didn't hate me that much after all."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 11:22 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 02:13 AM)

"I didn't know," Goranthir shook his head, looking into Tris's eyes. "And I'm very afraid right now. I'm afraid that if I stay with Allerleirauh, you'll hate me that much. And anything that I do will make things even worse ... It's not fair. For any of us."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 11:31 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 04:22 AM)

Almost, Tris told him he had slept with Allerleirauh, once. Almost.

"It doesn't matter who you're with," Tris said. "Maybe it drives me a little crazier, but only a little. I'm not exactly spending my nights alone, you know. I just... maybe if I went blind."

He laughed. "And couldn't smell you."

Then a rush of remorse overtook him, because of course Goranthir was afraid. And he was right, it wasn't fair. Goranthir hadn't asked for any of this. He put his hands on Goranthir's shoulders.

"Don't take me literally. I don't want not to be around you. I'll do whatever it takes, to keep that from happening. I've been wanting to talk to you all day."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 11:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 02:31 AM)

A slow smile went across Goranthir's face, and Tris knew what he was thinking. He had seen it in others' eyes many times before.

"This is ridiculous," Goranthir whispered, putting his own hands on Tris's neck, and pulling him in softly for a kiss.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 11:47 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 04:41 AM)

Tris couldn't think for a moment. His brain felt as if it were exploding.

If there had been any reluctance, any lack of passion, anything forced, he would have pulled away instantly. He told himself that, anyway.

It was funny how easily their bodies melted together. They were almost exactly the same height. Tris had worn Goranthir's clothes, when he had none of his own.

"Slap me if you want to," Tris said presently. "But - how much time is there before dinner?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 11:51 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 02:47 AM)

"Slap me if you want to," Tris said presently. "But - how much time is there before dinner?"

Slap.

"I'm not that hungry, why don't we wait until the dessert?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 4 2005, 11:57 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 4 2005, 04:51 AM)

Slap.

"I'm not that hungry, why don't we wait until the dessert?"

"Oh, you're bad," Tris said, smiling slowly. "You're downright rotten. Dessert. Right."

They did at least move off the path.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 4 2005, 12:17 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 4 2005, 02:57 AM)

"Oh, you're bad," Tris said, smiling slowly. "You're downright rotten. Dessert. Right."

They did at least move off the path.

Goranthir was bad, but not so bad as to be late for dinner on the night after his grandmother was attacked. He knew that others would worry, and there might be a search.

Still, Goranthir and Tris when they did show up for dinner were somewhat hastily dressed.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 03:51 PM

During the long boat ride to Vas, Isidor was in a state of complete disbelief, and worry. Kethiah, a woman who he thought was invincible, undefeatable, was lying somewhere, nearly dead, or maybe even dead by now ...

Two Days Later
When the boat arrived in Vas, Isidor stood up, and stretched. In his pack, he had healing potions, and amulets of mark and recall. He was as prepared as he was going to be, for whatever lay ahead.

He searched frantically around Vas, until he found a small cottage. Or what would have been a cottage, had it not been destoryed. He looked at the crushed cottage, drew his axe, swallowed hard, and began to walk towards it.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 08:20 PM

The Altmer mage Erlycn arrived in Ald Raathim from the guild of mages. He whistled while he slowly walked to the tavern. The tall mer paced his hand on T'Zar's shoulder. "Captain wants to speak with you. He's put in at Winterhold and requires your report." She nodded and stood to leave.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 08:24 PM

Two Days Later

Vas

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 09:51 AM)

During the long boat ride to Vas, Isidor was in a state of complete disbelief, and worry. Kethiah, a woman who he thought was invincible, undefeatable, was lying somewhere, nearly dead, or maybe even dead by now ...

When the boat arrived in Vas, Isidor stood up, and stretched. In his pack, he had healing potions, and amulets of mark and recall. He was as prepared as he was going to be, for whatever lay ahead.

He searched frantically around Vas, until he found a small cottage. Or what would have been a cottage, had it not been destoryed. He looked at the crushed cottage, drew his axe, swallowed hard, and began to walk towards it.

Dust and ash had already blanketed Kethiah's cottage, but the little flowers in the garden still lived, bright, fragrant petals beneath the gray.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 08:31 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 02:24 PM)

Vas
Dust and ash had already blanketed Kethiah's cottage, but the little flowers in the garden still lived, bright, fragrant petals beneath the gray.

Isidor walked foward towards the cottage, gazing at the wreckage. He stepped lightly on the wreckage of the cottage, looking for some sign of life. He got to his knees, and put his axe aside, and began to try and push some of the debris away.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 08:33 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 02:31 PM)

The dust reminded Isidor of a snowdrift back home in Skyrim, the way it clung and drifted, and whistled through hollow places within the ruins. All was quiet within and without.

One of the pieces of debris he pushed aside fell away, and plummeted down into a deep cellar beneath the cottage.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 08:36 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 02:33 PM)

Isidor looked shocked for a moment, before he picked up his axe, and, not knowing how deep the hole was, or where it went to, jumped down.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 08:43 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 02:36 PM)

Isidor looked shocked for a moment, before he picked up his axe, and, not knowing how deep the hole was, or where it went to, jumped down.

It was not a deep drop at all. In fact, it was only a shallow metal air shaft leading to the dungeon beneath. Echoes issued forth, but none of them sounded human or even living. The whirr of the deathless machinery of the Dwemer.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 08:47 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 02:43 PM)

Isidor looked around, his expression was surprised. He hadn't expected to find Dwemer ruins, under Kethiah's house ... He shook his head, and followed the hallways, listening for any sounds other then that of the machinery.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 08:48 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 12:20 PM)

Anya watched intently, memorizing Erlycn's features. Watching T'Zar stand, Anya went to follow.

Weaving a longer-lasting low chameleon, Anya made to follow the two. I should be back before the Banquet.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 08:50 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 10:48 AM)

The two of them, completely unaware of Anya reached the guild of mages. "Two for Winterhold please" and then they dissapeared through the guild guide.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 08:51 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 02:47 PM)

Isidor looked around, his expression surprise. He hadn't expected to find Dwemer ruins, under Kethiah's house ... He shook his head, and followed the hallways, listening for any sounds other then that of the machinery.

There was no obvious source for the dim light within -- it simply was there as if willed into existence by the long-dead race. It was not so light, however, to be able to find the source of the scampering of metal feet that echoed out from time to time.

It was a labyrinth. One could be lost down here for years, and never find a way out.

And then he heard a slight whisper of a song, in a female's voice. The words were indistinct, but he could follow the direction.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 08:53 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 02:51 PM)

Isidor heard the song, and followed it as best as he could. Maybe it was Kethiah. But, she had been barely able to say his name before, why would she be singing now?

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 08:56 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 11:50 AM)

The two of them, completely unaware of Anya reached the guild of mages. "Two for Winterhold please" and then they dissapeared through the guild guide.

Telera followed Anya out after the two, and Altmer and Khajiit. 'Winterhold,' she knew that should be vaguely familiar from recent events. Couldn't quite place it though.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 08:59 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 12:50 PM)

The two of them, completely unaware of Anya reached the guild of mages. "Two for Winterhold please" and then they dissapeared through the guild guide.

Anya turned at the sound of Telera following her, and smiled.

Anya stepped up to the Guild Teleporter, she was known well enough though her hazy apperance caused a mild start. "We're following those two. Winterhold, if you don't mind?" Anya dropped some coins to her.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 09:02 PM

The two dastardly pirates continued out of the guild house. They were heading for the docks, where the Gull was docked. A heavy blizzard blew over the town and few people were outside.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 09:05 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 02:53 PM)

Isidor heard the song, and followed it as best as he could. Maybe it was Kethiah. But, she had been barely able to say his name before, why would she be singing now?

It was Kethiah's voice, but it sounded weak, delirious. She was singing what sounded like a counting nursery rhyme, but nothing he had heard before:

One is for fingers,
With your touch my love lingers
Two is for sorrow,
For I shan’t see you tomorrow
Three is my soul
Black and colder than cold
Four is for all at its core
And hope evermore
Five is everything that dies
So all shall rise …

On the last line he saw her, lying on the cold metal ground in front of an abyss, both her eyes closed.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:11 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 01:02 PM)

The two dastardly pirates continued out of the guild house. They were heading for the docks, where the Gull was docked. A heavy blizzard blew over the town and few people were outside.

Anya pulled her arms around her. In her zest to learn magic, she had bought many, many spells, and had made many more. Most were lower levels, as she lacked the skill for the better ones. Unfortunately, Resist Frost wasn't among them.

Renewing her chameleon, Anya turned and casted a similar touch version on Telera. "There's not many people here because of the blizzard, but this actually helps us. The snow is an effective cover when mixed with chameleon."

Anya started foward, "Let's not lose them. Dammit, I hope this isn't Falco's doing. I'll wring his neck for ever thinking he could be trusted."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 09:11 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 03:05 PM)

It was Kethiah's voice, but it sounded weak, delirious. She was singing what sounded like a counting nursery rhyme, but nothing he had heard before:

One is for fingers,
With your touch my love lingers
Two is for sorrow,
For I shan’t see you tomorrow
Three is my soul
Black and colder than cold
Four is for all at its core
And hope evermore
Five is everything that dies
So all shall rise …
On the last line he saw her, lying on the cold metal ground in front of an abyss, both her eyes closed.

Isidor saw her, and drew a sharp intake of breath. He ran as fast as he could to her, trying to ignore whatever the song meant. He knelt down at her side, and took a healing potion out of his bag. He turned her over, and opened her mouth, before pouring the potion down her throat.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 09:15 PM

The ship was hardly recognizeable. The blizzard had hit it hard out at sea, and tore the sails. The mast was cracked down the middle and The Gull was completely covered in snow and ice. It was quite obvious that the ship was not going anyware until this blizzard let up. Not a single crewmam was on deck, they were all below waiting out the storm. All except Falco and Grugzock that is. Erlycn and T'Zar boarded the ship and knocked on the cabin door.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 09:19 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 03:11 PM)

Kethiah coughed and sputtered up some of the potion before opening one of her eyes. The other was sealed by the crust of blood that ran from her forehead.

"What took you so bloody long?" she whispered with a weak smile.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:20 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 12:15 PM)

“Thank you,” Telera said in response to Anya’s touch chameleon spell.

Telera nodded numbly, the clothes she was wearing were definitely not meant for blizzard conditions, but she was at least a little resistant to the cold due to her Nordic heritage. “F-Falco,” She said, teeth chattering, “what could he have to do with these two?”

“Ship up ahead,” She said, stating the obvious. “Let’s follow them aboard and find out what they were doing, Ald Raathim is too far away to be shore leave.”

Posted by: syronj Oct 4 2005, 09:20 PM

After meditating near the fishpond, Shaka opened his eyes. The focusing of his thoughts had convinced him of something further; he was being watched, even in Ald Raathim's woods - - it wasn't paranoia.

He stood for a moment. "Dragon? . . . Tris?" There was no way of telling who might be watching from what he guessed was the Void; like a theater audience in the darkness beyond the footlights.

As he walked back to the yurt, it saddened him for a second that Loranna's company might be being watched as if they were members of outside Houses. But Shaka had to admit that these were dangerous times, no less than when the Blight still raged or the Blue Dawn rose.

He stepped into the yurt and folded up one of his better robes. Placing it in a gear bag, Shaka set out for Ald Raathim and the castle. In the event that he was invited to the feast for Barenziah, he would be ready.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 09:22 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 03:19 PM)

Isidor grinned in relief, nearly crying. "I came as fast as I could. But," he said, reaching into his bag, "that's not important." He withrdrew an amulet and handed it to her. "Here, this will recall you back to my room, in Ald Raathim. Let's get out of this place. We can take a boat back, if you want, but I thought this would be better." He kissed her on the part of her face that wasn't wounded, and smiled.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:27 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 01:20 PM)

Anya nodded. Cocking her head, Anya removed her cuirass and shirt, and put her cuirass back on. "Her, put this on too, it will help. See if you can find the name of the ship, and any other distinguishing features. Then meet me at the captian's cabin, I'll be there."

Anya sprinted off, up the deck and towards the cabin, hoping to catch them before the door was latched.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 09:30 PM

The door was opened. Erlycn and T'Zar entered. Falco sat at his desk, wearing a bear fur robe to keep warm. "Welcome back."

He poured himself a glass of wine and began listening to T'Zar's report. Erlycn excused himself and left the room, leaving the door open.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 09:30 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 03:22 PM)

Kethiah was so weak, she could barely hold the amulet, but she raised her other hand and touched his cheek. "Thank you, my love. It seems I did not want to die."

She vanished.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 09:35 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 03:30 PM)

Kethiah was so weak, she could barely hold the amulet, but she raised her other hand and touched his cheek. "Thank you, my love. It seems I did not want to die."

She vanished.

Isidor smiled, and rooted through his bag for his recall amulet. He took it out, activiated it, and in an instant, he was back in Ald Raathim.

He looked over to Kethiah "Do you want to rest now, or should we go the healer?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 09:37 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 03:35 PM)

Kethiah had managed to crawl into the bed. "I don't think I can move ... Can a healer be brought to me?"

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 09:38 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 12:27 PM)

Telera put on Anya’s shirt, thanking Anya earnestly before breaking off to the other side of the ship, scanning for any indicator of the identity of the ship. She promised herself that she would find a way to repay Anya for these favors.

Coming along the broadside of the ship the identity of the ship became obvious, the ‘Swift Gull’. A brief water walk spell that almost dropped Telera into the icy water on its expiration later, and Telera was aboard the ship and making her way to the cabin from the bow.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 09:43 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 01:30 PM)

Anya thanked her luck, and cast her invisible spell. Glad that the rocking boat would cover the creaking wood from her footsteps, she entered the cabin.

It was small, like any ship's quarters, but she found a decent hiding spot. When a particularlly nasty wave hit, she lept up. Grabbing a beam, she swung her legs foward and used them to provide leverage. Just in time to, as her invisible faded. Spread eagle against the roof, she hooked her arms and legs as best as the situation allowed, and listend to the conversation, mentally cursing Falco all the while.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 09:49 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 03:37 PM)

Kethiah had managed to crawl into the bed. "I don't think I can move ... Can a healer be brought to me?"

"Of course." Isidor smiled at her, left the room, and returned a few moments later with a tall, slender Altmer woman, who smiled at Kethiah. "Oh, you're in bad shape, my dear."

She took some potions out of her robe, and handed them to Kethiah. "Drink up." At the same time, she waved her hands, so a blue light appeared around Kethiah.

"There. That's the best I can do for you now. Though, I would advise taking a long rest, before going out on any quests." She smiled again, and exited the room. Isidor pulled up a chair next to Kethiah, and smiled at her. "Feeling any better?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 10:00 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 03:49 PM)

“Never better,” Kethiah smiled softly. She had a cloth a jug of water and was wiping the sticky blood off her face carefully. Kethiah started to open her other eye, but she blinked back, squinting.

“I’m sorry, it’s just a little bright in here,” she said, going to the window and closing the curtain.

“That’s better,” she said, opening her injured eye, which was bright violet in color.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 4 2005, 10:08 PM

Anonymous Canyon City, Elswyer.

Vaan's finger tapped impatiently on the stone table of the tavern.

His other hand was occupied with turning pages in an old book.

He was bored. He was waiting.

Finally, the thing that he had been waiting for burst through the door, panting for breath.

"Dro'Zaymar....is....here.....now" Panted a Khajjit, the one that had just come through the door. Dro'Zaymar was old for his kind, and climbing up canyon Cities was'nt good for his aching bones.

"Climbing.....up....Canyon....Cities....Is not.....good.....for....Dro'Zaymar's Aching Bones..." Continued the khajjit, "Dro'Zaymar is too old for this!"

Vaan only raised his eyebrows at this, after a few seconds, he replied: "But Dear Dro'Zaymar, I'm over 2000 years old, and it was no struggle for me."

The problem being there of course, that Vaan had a young body

"But Vaan has young body!" Replied the Khajjit, in a tone that was both still tired and annoyed.

Vaan nodded at this, perhaps Dro'Zaymar did not know that he was just teasing.

"The Cave?" he inquired quietly. (he had sent the Khajjit earlier to find a cave.)

"yes! This cave! Dro'Zaymar Finds it as promised!" The Khajjit burst out enthusiastically, forgetting anything else. "Dro'Zaymar makes map for Vaan"

Dro'Zaymar put his paw into his tunic and pulled out an old and torn looking piece of parchment, he quickly gave it to Vaan, all the while looking thouroughly pleased with himself.

"good job Dro'Zaymar" Mused Vaan, occupied with the map. It showed the location of a Cave, near the city.

He Smiled, and said slowly to himself "Finally, finally, things are beginning to look up."

Rolling up the map hastily, Vaan got up to leave, but not before tossing a bag full of money towards Dro'Zaymar.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 10:34 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 11:43 AM)

Falco sniffed the air. "Grugzock, close the door please. There's a draft in here and I don't want anyone out in the open until I've had a word with them." The orc complied and T'Zar continued giving her captain the reports, unaware of the Bosmer in the room.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 10:44 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 04:00 PM)

Two Days Later
“Never better,” Kethiah smiled softly. She had a cloth a jug of water and was wiping the sticky blood off her face carefully. Kethiah started to open her other eye, but she blinked back, squinting.

“I’m sorry, it’s just a little bright in here,” she said, going to the window and closing the curtain.

“That’s better,” she said, opening her injured eye, which was bright violet in color.

Two Days Later
Isidor smiled at her and said "Well, you look as beautiful as ever." His smile quickly dissapeared though, as he thought of how she must have gotten those wounds.

"Do you know who did this to you?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 10:51 PM

When Falco had finished acquiring information from T'Zar he took her reports and began skimming through them. "What are you hiding for Anya? You're quite welcome here."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 11:02 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 02:51 PM)

When Falco had finished acquiring information from T'Zar he took her reports and began skimming through them. "What are you hiding for Anya? You're quite welcome here."

Anya snarled, landing on the floor. She remained in a half-crouch, confident that she would be able to handle herself.

Anya glared at Falco, not quite believing him. She hoped that Telera was outside.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 11:05 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:02 PM)

He smiled genuinely, "Whats the matter Anya? Am I worthy of only a snarl? Oh it must be this." He held up a section of T'Zar's notes detailing Anya's talk with Shaka. "I haven't read it yet. But this is private information between you and Shaka. Its none of my buisness." He promptly burned the parchment with the candle on his desk. "Now is there anything I can do for you?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 11:09 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 03:05 PM)

"If your spy was any good," Anya slighted T'Zar, "She'd know I already talk to half the castle about."

"What are you doing?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 11:13 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:09 PM)

"If your spy was any good," Anya slighted T'Zar, "She'd know I already talk to half the castle about."

"What are you doing?"

"Spy? She's no spy. Must've taken her orders too seriously. I asked her to keep up on rumors and current events of the town. Nothing more than is known to the public. She's merely a newsperson. I apologize for this inconvenience. She will be punished for doing any spying. As for what I am doing, I am waiting out the storm as my ship is in no condition to sail."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 11:14 PM

Ald Raathim, present time

There was still some time before the banquet; Loranna heads down to her room, looking for Slyvos.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 11:22 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 04:44 PM)

Isidor smiled at her and said "Well, you look as beautiful as ever." His smile quickly dissapeared though, as he thought of how she must have gotten those wounds.

"Do you know who did this to you?"

Kethiah nodded. "It doesn't matter. It was nothing personal."

She crawled back into bed.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 4 2005, 11:26 PM

Slyvos was again, still in the library. It was fairly obvious considering he had the door locked, and that room was only locked when he was working on something... or was having a paranoia act.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 4 2005, 11:28 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 05:22 PM)

Two Days Later
Kethiah nodded. "It doesn't matter. It was nothing personal."

She crawled back into bed.

Two Days Later
Isidor wanted to say It does matter, I want to find them, and kill them., but refrained. Instead, he smiled again and said "I'm glad I used the mirror when I did. If I hadn't ..." He didn't want to think about it.

"So, are you going to live here, now?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 11:29 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 05:26 PM)

Slyvos was again, still in the library. It was fairly obvious considering he had the door locked, and that room was only locked when he was working on something... or was having a paranoia act.

Not finding Slyvos in their room, Loranna inquires his whereabouts from her servants; in short order she is confronted with the locked library door, a puzzled frown on her face.

What's he up to now? she wonders, her knuckles rapping smartly on the library door.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 11:30 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 03:13 PM)

Anya chuckled, standing upright, "No Falco. You're not one to mince words enough that you would have a Nightblade slinking through a tavern."

Anya kept her anger in check, she wanted to call him a common theif, "Falco, dear. Should I forgive you? The reason you were banished, breaking trust multiple times. You have no morals, and would sooner steal from a man that claims you as a close friend. Should I trust you?"

She smiled, "I might just do that. There were times you've proven you're mettle. And we are cut from the same clothe. I'll trust you, friend Falco."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 4 2005, 11:37 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 02:30 PM)

‘Oh no,’ Telera thought, perched just over the door, above the cabin and sheltered from the wind (and sight) by some ropes and supplies crates on deck, she hadn’t been able to make out much so far but she thought she had made out Anya’s name in there, and it had been too long since she went in, the door was shut. There was an argonian voice too. Falco? Anya must have been right. There was a new voice now, it was Anya’s, the cold was an afterthought as she readied to enter the cabin.

Telera ran her hand along the top of the ship and gave a sharp knock a few meters in from the door, it rang hollow. Good, she was between the braces. Laying her hand into that area she pushed. Concentrating and then striking hard with telekinesis she followed the splinters down into the cabin. She landed already in a roll to come up her feet, but ruined the otherwise graceful dive by overbalancing and falling forward at the end of it. “[censored] breasts!” she snarled, as she tried to catch herself.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 4 2005, 11:38 PM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 4 2005, 05:28 PM)

Isidor wanted to say It does matter, I want to find them, and kill them., but refrained. Instead, he smiled again and said "I'm glad I used the mirror when I did. If I hadn't ..." He didn't want to think about it.

"So, are you going to live here, now?"

Kethiah smiled, and closed her eyes. "I don't know. Let me sleep on it."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 4 2005, 11:42 PM

Slyvos was to the door rather quickly, putting his furry ear to the door and squinting a bit.

'and who might it be?'

Posted by: Loranna Oct 4 2005, 11:49 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 05:42 PM)

Slyvos was to the door rather quickly, putting his furry ear to the door and squinting a bit.

'and who might it be?'

"Your loving soon-to-be wife," Loranna calls back. "Slyvos, open this door; we've got the banquet coming up ..."

Slyvos was sounding paranoid again - and she had just told the Queen a short while ago that he was getting better. Loranna feels a gnawing feeling in the pit of her stomach.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 11:51 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:30 PM)

"Thank you Anya. Now you must be hungry. Stay for a meal the ship's cook, Grubby is makin-"

He was cut off by the entrence of Telera. "Ummm... friend of yours?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 4 2005, 11:56 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 03:51 PM)

"Thank you Anya. Now you must be hungry. Stay for a meal the ship's cook, Grubby is makin-"

He was cut off by the entrence of Telera. "Ummm... friend of yours?"

Anya raised a hand against the splinters, and chuckled a Telera's unbalanced roll. "Yes, of course she's a friend. Did you think I would come on a pirate ship alone?"

Better to keep some things from him. Anya turned, and mouthed to Telera, "Don't say your name."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 4 2005, 11:56 PM

He let loranna in, giving a smile that showed a bit of wariness...

'come in, come in.'

He put his arms around Loranna and led her to a table.

'so, what did you want to talk to me about?'

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 4 2005, 11:58 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 4 2005, 01:56 PM)

He extended his hand to Telera "Good day Miss Anonymous. Are you alright?"

Posted by: Teleran Oct 5 2005, 12:00 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 02:58 PM)

He extended his hand to Telera "Good day Miss Anonymous. Are you alright?"

“Hands off, snake-tongue,” Telera said, picking herself up to face Falco, arms crossed and eyes blazing, “What the hell are you doing sending spies to Ald Raathim? And this ship, what in blazes are you doing with a ship, Falco?”

Posted by: Loranna Oct 5 2005, 12:02 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 05:56 PM)

He let loranna in, giving a smile that showed a bit of wariness...

'come in, come in.'

He put his arms around Loranna and led her to a table.

'so, what did you want to talk to me about?'

Loranna kisses Slyvos quickly but fondly, though her eyes reveal a hint of concern.

"Mostly, I just wanted to suggest you not spook the guards like that again," she says. "Barenziah herself didn't mind the popping out of nowhere trick but her guards were on-edge to begin with, you appreciate ..."

She trails off, staring at Slyvos. " ... Dear, what's on your mind?" she asks, frowning. "Why are you locked away in here?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 5 2005, 12:03 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:00 PM)

"Why Teleran, you have changed quite bit since our last meeting haven't you? That was quite rude of you. In fact so rude I will have to ask you to get off my ship. Anya may stay or go as she pleases." He sat back down and began reviewing T'Zar's notes.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 5 2005, 12:06 AM

Slyvos sighs, rubbing his temples (or wherever they would be on a khajiit...) in frustration.

'I had... a nightmare. this one... I haven't had for a while. It was when my old family died...'

Posted by: Teleran Oct 5 2005, 12:11 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 03:03 PM)

“I’ll be more than happy to get off your ship Falco. It’s drafty and has holes in it.” Telera said, voice hard, “But I’m not leaving Anya to your mercy.”

Telera continued, “And I don’t think you need those papers now do you? Your subordinate will have to come with us too, to be properly recompensed for spying and being caught. You do understand, don’t you?”

Telera made gesture for the papers to be given to her.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 5 2005, 12:11 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 06:06 PM)

Slyvos sighs, rubbing his temples (or wherever they would be on a khajiit...) in frustration.

'I had... a nightmare. this one... I haven't had for a while. It was when my old family died...'

Loranna remembers what she's seen of Slyvos's memories of his family, back in the days when she and he could share thoughts directly. She remembers flashes of fire, and fear, and white-hot rage followed by soul-crushing loss, remembers seeing Slyvos's home collaspe in on itself, knowing that everything he loved in the world was trapped inside, being crushed and burned into nothing ...

She wraps her arms around him, trying to offer him a safe place where his nightmares couldn't reach him.

"Love ..." she whispers.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 5 2005, 12:13 AM

He holds in a tear, breathing a bit irregularly.

'the oddest part was... I felt like I was missing something this time. Like something was out of place... and then lately I've felt like I'm being, I don't know how to describe it... watched'

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 5 2005, 12:15 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:11 PM)

"Pardon me, but you're in no position to make demands. T'Zar will remain here as will the papers. Anya is free to go anytime she wants. Please leave my ship Teleran."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 5 2005, 12:17 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 06:13 PM)

"We're all being watched, love," Loranna says quietly. "It's been that way ever since we started trekking through Skyrim, a year and a lifetime ago."

She gives an ironic smile, muttering "I really must do something about that ..."

" ... Missing something?" she asks, tilting her head.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 5 2005, 12:17 AM

Castle Daruhn

The smell of the cooking food drifted along the castle grounds, and the servants began setting the tables on the cliff-side, where a gentle breeze touched the silken walls.

"Everything will have to be perfect," Razbiah said, eyeing the roast.

"It doesn't have to be," Thianas laughed, putting the final touches on his dessert. "But it will be."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 5 2005, 12:18 AM

Two Days Later

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 05:38 PM)

Two Days Later
Kethiah smiled, and closed her eyes. "I don't know. Let me sleep on it."

"Have a nice sleep, dear." Isidor said, smiling.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 5 2005, 12:19 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 4 2005, 03:15 PM)

"Pardon me, but you're in no position to make demands. T'Zar will remain here as will the papers. Anya is free to go anytime she wants. Please leave my ship Teleran."

“Not happening Falco,” Telera said. “You can keep T’zar here and have her recite the important bits from memory, but those papers… she’ll have to write you a new copy. Those come with us, or are destroyed.”

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 5 2005, 12:20 AM

He shook his head, his face rather distraught.

'I mean watched... differently, not the usual feeling. Something that feels... ancient. I don't know what exactly. And in the dream... it occured to me that in my rage and sorrow... I never looked under the rubble to see if anyone survived... I assumed them all dead. And with good reason...'

Posted by: syronj Oct 5 2005, 12:21 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 06:17 PM)

Dressed in his better robe, Shaka paused near the cooks. "Congratulations on your engagement."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 5 2005, 12:22 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:19 PM)

"Fine. I have no desire o make my friends into enemies. I bid you godday Teleran. Now please leave." he handed Telera the papers.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 5 2005, 12:25 AM

Telera didn’t take the papers, they became shreds as Falco released them. Telera looked at him coldly, before turning for the door to the cabin.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 5 2005, 12:29 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Oct 4 2005, 06:20 PM)

Loranna is quiet for a moment, thinking about what Slyvos just said. It hadn't occured to her either that he never looked - but then, her perspective of Slyvos's past was colored by his own feelings. That was one of the pitfalls to sharing images mind to mind, especially with someone you were emotionally close to.

Irony of ironies: even if she ever regained the ability to share imges directly with people again, she'd never be able to use this bit of hindsight anyway; it was kindness to be the only one around who could read minds.

"That was long, long ago," she reminds Slyvos. "Far too long ago to be able to do anything about what happened ..."

The smell of the waiting banquet reaches the library.

"Let's put aside our worries or a time," Loranna says. "After the banquet, we'll talk more on your dreams, and what if anything can be done about them. And what might be watching us this time."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 5 2005, 12:30 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 4 2005, 02:25 PM)

Telera didn’t take the papers, they became shreds as Falco released them. Telera looked at him coldly, before turning for the door to the cabin.

Falco turned to Anya. "Will you be leaving also?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 5 2005, 12:30 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 4 2005, 06:21 PM)

Dressed in his better robe, Shaka paused near the cooks. "Congratulations on your engagement."

Razbiah, her face red, smiled. "Oh, thank you, serjo. Very kind of you to say that."

Thianas also bowed.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Oct 5 2005, 12:31 AM

Slyvos let a little tear run down his face, wiping it off as quickly as it came to hide it.

'alright, maybe some food will get my mind off of this.'

And with that, they got up and went off to feast with the queen!

Posted by: Loranna Oct 5 2005, 12:32 AM

And with that, it's time for a new thread.

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna

Posted by: syronj Oct 5 2005, 12:34 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 4 2005, 06:30 PM)

Razbiah, her face red, smiled. "Oh, thank you, serjo. Very kind of you to say that."

Thianas also bowed.

Shaka smiled back. "Not at all. Someday Ald Raathim's regional cooking will probably be renowned because of you two, if it isn't already."