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

Posted by: Loranna Oct 24 2005, 10:55 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 Also, read http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737 as soon as possible; this will give you an idea of who is in the RP.

To help you get up to speed, here is http://www.tc.umn.edu/~rhod0091/lrp/temp.html told from my character Loranna's perspective. This summary doesn't cover everything but it sums up some of the bigger events our campaign has covered. Note: I will probably update and edit this summary as time goes on.

===

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!

===

IMPORTANT: WE HAVE JUMPED SIX MONTHS INTO THE FUTURE; IT IS NOW RAIN'S HAND IN THE RP (i.e., April)

===

Summary for Loranna: Loranna had learned some disturbing news about Vvardenfell, curtesy of the Khajiit smugglar Goldcat. Reports of a mysterious storm hovering over Dagon Fel, and the re-emergance of Vivec, Almalexia, and Sotha Sil, worry the new noblewoman

More recently, Loranna has heard that Tyradil, Isidor's and Kethiah's son, was kidnapped by a Redoran scout who threatened to kill the boy if Kethiah did not back off. She has sent some guards to collect the broken-backed Redoran and gone to the Nymph and Noggin to check Kethiah and her family personally.

===

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 24 2005, 10:49 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
Kethiah was at the Nymph and Noggin twenty minutes later. Tyradil had a few cuts and bruises, but did not seem too shaken by the experience. Clearly he was being brave for the Lady of Daruhn.

Isidor brought the kids up to bed, while Kethiah changed, and joined Loranna in the quiet dining room. A few people were eating, but it was a refined, subdued atmosphere. Loranna, having passed the Noggin on the way, knew that it was in stark contrast to the party going on there.

"Thank you for checking on Tyradil yourself," Kethiah smiled, bringing Loranna a glass of the High Rock wine which had just come in. "I think he was very impressed with himself than he was considered important enough to warrant your care."

(OOC -- Be back in about an hour, grabbing dinner)

Loranna accepts the wine with a smile, blaming Tris for corrupting her native Skyrim love of fermented honey for Wayrest vintages - then laughs at the thought of Tris corrupting her native Skyrim anything. Besides, she had mead with her midday meal.

"It was the least I could do," she tells Kethiah, sipping her wine. "I know what it feels like to be that young and be afraid you're going to die. No one should have to experience that."

It seems clear that there are things which stil weigh on Loranna's mind though as she gives Kethiah a reassuring smile and tells her "He is a brave lad, though, and he should be fine if a bit more cautious from here on, Nine willing."

Posted by: Shardie Oct 24 2005, 10:58 PM

OOC description

Maranda has been playing with kitty, and predicting doom and gloom to Shaka and co, if they attempt to go after the skull of corruption. Naturally, the lich is ready for them

Posted by: syronj Oct 24 2005, 11:00 PM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian battlemage, is attempting to change his race to Redguard and has begun a Dibellan quest to retrieve the Skull of Corruption from the lich Manavrio, with the help of Telera and Anya. The company is preparing to depart for Gideon, Black Marsh.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:08 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 08:42 PM)

Kethiah nodded. "Maybe there is a place in Tamriel where children grow up without knowing and fearing hunger, disease, war, and death, but I have never found it in my travels around the Arena. Ald Raathim is as close it comes to that, in my experience."

"I have put up a notice on the bulletin board, telling parents to watch after their children -- that the entire battallion of scouts may not have been defeated after all ..."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 24 2005, 11:09 PM

Telera bought the book Maranda suggested, Lord Landon and the Castle of Blackmarsh and has since been quiet while she reads. She thinks he sounds much better in this story than she remembers him being in person.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 24 2005, 11:17 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 11:55 PM)

Summary

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, is with Tris about his ship, the Akarvina, nearing a fog-cloaked cove six miles south of Ald Raathim. They believe they are closing in on the Butcher of the Bay, who unbeknownst to them is Falco.

King Helseth, Queen Dinara, and the Queen Mother Barenziah are with Allerleirauh in Mournhold, entertaining a most important person -- Enman, one of the three heirs of Uriel Septim VII.

And Kethiah, ex-assassin and co-propriestor of the Nymph and Noggin --

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
Kethiah nodded. "Maybe there is a place in Tamriel where children grow up without knowing and fearing hunger, disease, war, and death, but I have never found it in my travels around the Arena. Ald Raathim is as close it comes to that, in my experience."

"I have put up a notice on the bulletin board, telling parents to watch after their children -- that the entire battallion of scouts may not have been defeated after all ..."

"Happily Ever After ..." Loranna mutters to herself, her tone wistful, or perhaps simply unsure.

"There may yet be scouts in the woods; I've had patrols increased," Loranna says, putting her glass of wne down. "Maybe I'm thinking too hard about this, but maybe the idea was to have us be scared for our children - maybe the whole point of the kidnapping was just to send a note of terror through us."

She looks to Kethiah, eyebrows raised.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 24 2005, 11:18 PM

OOC:

Falco Redflash, male argonian rogue, is currently speaking with Dragon about questions of morality, CHIM, the difference between good and evil etc.... on a beach 5 miles South of Ald Raathim.

IC:

Falco shook Dragon's hand. "Thank you my friend....thank you. Though for the duration of this war we remain enemies, when it is all over I hope we can have a drink at the local tavern and let the past stay in the past.

It would be very unfortunate should we ever meet during this war, as I don't relish the prospect of getting slain by you. Good luck, and hopefully we'll talk later when we are not enemies."

The argonian turned to his ship. "Oh, and one last thing: Please don't tell anyone who doesn't already know the butcher's identity I would very much appreciate it."

He entered his ship and within 2 minutes the deck was a abuzz with the crew and dissappearing South East into the fog, completely unaware of the Akarvina being soo close....

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:22 PM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 09:04 PM)

"Well, more than a note, it was a whole symphony of terror to me," Kethiah said. "I had just told Isidor that I was afraid that I would make him and the kids a target for my old enemies -- like the one who did this to me" she gestured to her violet eye. "And then Tyradil disappears. It's ghastly, but when I saw it was a Redoran, and not related to my old job -- I felt this sense of relief. It was less 'personal,' I guess ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 24 2005, 11:29 PM

ooc summaries:

Allerleirauh is with Helseth, Barenziah, Dinara, and a most distinguished visitor.... his Imperial Highness Enman, one of the Emperor's three heirs.

Tris is aboard the Akarvina, closing in on the Butcher of the Bay. Tris has seen the Butcher's work before and is torn between wanting to catch him and not wanting Goranthir anywhere near him.

Dragon is 5 miles south of Ald Raathim, having left Doll in charge. He's going to be perturbed when he learns about the Redoran scout.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:32 PM

The Akarvina: Six Miles South of Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 24 2005, 09:05 PM)

He entered his ship and within 2 minutes the deck was a abuzz with the crew and dissappearing South East into the fog, completely unaware of the Akarvina being soo close....

Goranthir, Tris, and the archers stood up on the fifty foot forecastle, peering into the fog bank. On the deck, the sailors were reading to hoist the sails, and more were below, at the galley, ready to add to the Akarvina's speed with their own backs.

It was still.

A gull's cry caused Goranthir to look more intently into the fog bank.

"It's there," he said, pointing to a murky shadow cutting through the gloom. "It's the Butcher's ship!"

The archers dipped their arrows in oil and prepared to set them alight.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 24 2005, 11:32 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:09 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
"Well, more than a note, it was a whole symphony of terror to me," Kethiah said. "I had just told Isidor that I was afraid that I would make him and the kids a target for my old enemies -- like the one who did this to me" she gestured to her violet eye. "And then Tyradil disappears. It's ghastly, but when I saw it was a Redoran, and not related to my old job -- I felt this sense of relief. It was less 'personal,' I guess ..."

Loranna gives Kethiah a reassuring smile, finding it not hard at all to emphesize with what the ex-assassin felt. She herself, soon after she had realized she was pregnant, had found herself asking 'What if Azura tries someday to come after my baby?'

She had never fully answered herself on that; she wsn't entirely sure what to tell herself. All she could do was go on, and try not to let the worry get in the way of living. And keep as alert as she could.

"War has a way of making things less personal, it seems," she says. "Or so sayeth the woman who's lived through less than a year of war in her life so far. But everyone's demonizing the other side; you should hear some of the things our previous captives say about us here. I'm a necromancer who killed my husband in order to lay with his corpse, out to sacrifice babies to foreign gods, or so the latest rumors go. And yet I'm still not quite as hated as Helseth."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 24 2005, 11:33 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 24 2005, 09:42 PM)

"That's fascinating," Enman replied, still smiling, but Allerleirauh could tell that he understood only a little of what she was saying. Still, his interest seemed sated, though looked a little disappointed. Daedra worshippers would have been a little more exciting perhaps. Whatever his Imperial Majesty's faults, he could not be accused of being a dangerous intellectual. "Rather more complicated than what we do."

Barenziah winked at Allerleirauh. "The New Temple is dedicated towards the good of the Dunmer people."

"As I hope we all are," Helseth added.

"Will Your Grace Allerleirauh be staying for dinner?" Dinara asked, and then blushed a bit, looking at Enman to see if he took offense to her "correcting" his etiquette. He evidently did not notice it.

Allerleirauh had to suppress a smile at her majesty Dinara asking if she would stay; if a Queen invited you to dinner, you stayed, if she didn't, you did not stay. But Dinara had been a queen for a very short time.

"Your majesty's hospitality honors me; I hope I am not trespassing on my welcome here," she replied.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 24 2005, 11:39 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 08:19 PM)

The Akarvina: Six Miles South of Ald Raathim
Goranthir, Tris, and the archers stood up on the fifty foot forecastle, peering into the fog bank. On the deck, the sailors were reading to hoist the sails, and more were below, at the galley, ready to add to the Akarvina's speed with their own backs.

It was still.

A gull's cry caused Goranthir to look more intently into the fog bank.

"It's there," he said, pointing to a murky shadow cutting through the gloom. "It's the Butcher's ship!"

The archers dipped their arrows in oil and prepared to set them alight.

Through the thick fog lights suddenly appeared....from the arrows. Once his rather panicky Bosmeri lookout spotted them Falco immediately sized up the situation. Damn, I shouldn't have been so careless! Time to get the hell out of here.

He began bellowing orders to his crew. Most were along the lines of....

"MOVE IT NOW!"

or

"All hands on deck! We're getting the hell out of here!"

or

"Full speed ahead! You know what to do!"

or

":insert death threat here:"

Quikly the Red Falcon began speeding faster South East, hoping to stay out of arrow range. All crewmen were frantically attempting to use operate the sails to catch the best wind, lest this come to a grisly and brutal ship-to-ship battle.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:43 PM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 09:19 PM)

"I must admit that having known Jazbet, I found the arrangement afterwards to be ... unsettling," Kethiah said frankly. "But Slyvos is so different -- he doesn't dress, eat, exercise, or ... well, not to be too vulgar, but I imagine he doesn't make love like Jazbet did. It's still a strange, unsettling thing when I think about it, but when I see Slyvos, I honestly don't. Not anymore."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 24 2005, 11:45 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 24 2005, 11:26 PM)

"Why is he running from us?" Tris asked. "He's the Butcher of the Bay - why isn't he coming about to board us?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:52 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 09:20 PM)

The dinner was splendid, course after course of exquisite food. Barenziah's compliments on Razbiah's and Thianas's cooking was heartfelt, but it was clear that the royal family of Morrowind ate well, particularly when a guess like Imperial Prince Enman was in attendance.

As the servants brought out food and the orchestra in the candlelit chamber played softly, Helseth said to Allerleirauh. "We can speak frankly in here. None of the servants have use of their ears."

"Which means that the orchestra occasionally lapses into dissonance," Barenziah smiled.

Enman wasted no time in beginning the frank discussion. "The Empire wants its bases in Vvardenfell recovered. We want additional bases throughout the mainland and the island. We want the first child of your union to marry into the Imperial family."

"And what will you give in return?" Helseth asked, his face not showing his thoughts.

"We can talk about doubling the assistance we're giving you now," said Enman, smiling.

"We can talk about it?" Barenziah laughed.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 24 2005, 11:53 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:30 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
"I must admit that having known Jazbet, I found the arrangement afterwards to be ... unsettling," Kethiah said frankly. "But Slyvos is so different -- he doesn't dress, eat, exercise, or ... well, not to be too vulgar, but I imagine he doesn't make love like Jazbet did. It's still a strange, unsettling thing when I think about it, but when I see Slyvos, I honestly don't. Not anymore."

"Everyone was unsettled," Loranna says, having had many months now to accept that the matter of Slyvos's return to mortality would always be touchy. "And you're talking to the woman who danced the Stripping the Lily dance on your opening night dear; your imagination would be correct in its assessment."

She gives a small grin.

"He's getting out more than he used to; I think he's coming to like your tavern. It's good to see him getting out more." Loranna pauses a moment. "How are things with you and Isidor; how's he handling the idea of having a third child?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 24 2005, 11:53 PM

Ald Raathim: Dragon

Dragon returned to his office, to relieve Doll of her temporary command. He had expected nothing in particular to happen during his brief absence. Instead he heard that a child had been kidnapped, by a Redoran scout his men had missed. A child he knew.

He gave a few terse orders concerning the captive Redoran and made his way to the Nymph and Noggin.

"Kethiah," he said, entering the dining room. "I came to apologize to you personally. Is the boy well?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 24 2005, 11:56 PM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 09:32 PM)

"Why is he running from us?" Tris asked. "He's the Butcher of the Bay - why isn't he coming about to board us?"

"He's a bloody coward, up for a battle with a pleasure craft or merchant's scully. We would beat him in a straight ahead battle and he knows it," Goranthir said angrily, as the sails were lifted and the galley began rowing, lurching the Akarvina into the chase they were prepared for. "We're almost close enough to fire!"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:00 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 11:39 PM)

It was difficult not to call Enman 'your highness.' Indeed, it was almost instinctive to call him 'your majesty.'

"Then let me be frank also. The Temple military cannot make any progress in Vvardenfell without your aid. We have lost Gnisis; we are going to lose Molag Mar; if things do not change soon we will lose our remaining cantons in Vivec City, and if we lose Vivec City, we will have lost the heart of the Temple. I met with my officers today to tell them to be creative in their solutions, since no help seemed to be forthcoming; but help would be very, very welcome."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:04 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 09:40 PM)

"I thought things were going well, but Isidor has his mind on marriage, and when I resisted, he took it as a sign I didn't love him," Kethiah sighed. "Maybe it's not logical, but I'm afraid of the consequences. Someday someone will come here and want me dead. I'm tough to kill, though, provided I'm a lone target. With a husband and children -- there are lots of ways to hurt me."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 09:40 PM)

"He is, thank you, Dragon," Kethiah said, standing at the Nord's approach. "A few cuts and bruises, which Loranna took care of. He's a brave boy ... And I should apologize to you more than you to me. My spies didn't know anything about the lost battallion, until it was too late."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:09 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 11:51 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"I thought things were going well, but Isidor has his mind on marriage, and when I resisted, he took it as a sign I didn't love him," Kethiah sighed. "Maybe it's not logical, but I'm afraid of the consequences. Someday someone will come here and want me dead. I'm tough to kill, though, provided I'm a lone target. With a husband and children -- there are lots of ways to hurt me."
"He is, thank you, Dragon," Kethiah said, standing at the Nord's approach. "A few cuts and bruises, which Loranna took care of. He's a brave boy ... And I should apologize to you more than you to me. My spies didn't know anything about the lost battallion, until it was too late."

"We're in the same business, my lovely," Dragon said. "I should have known myself, but I allowed myself to be distracted by personal matters. It won't happen again. If you'll pardon advice where you asked for none - the sort of enemies you have don't care whether you're married or not. That sort of thing matters to a young man like Isidor. He thinks it means you won't stay with him."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 12:10 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:51 AM)

Loranna sighs very quietly. "I can understand that line of reasoning, though if I may, Kethiah - you're already a part of Isidor's family, enemies will still go after them to get at you whether you're officially married or not. Anyone willing to use loved ones to get at you like that won't care what your official status with them is."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:40 AM)

Loranna nods to Dragon when he enters, letting him speak with Kethiah.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:13 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 11:43 PM)

The Akarvina
"He's a bloody coward, up for a battle with a pleasure craft or merchant's scully. We would beat him in a straight ahead battle and he knows it," Goranthir said angrily, as the sails were lifted and the galley began rowing, lurching the Akarvina into the chase they were prepared for. "We're almost close enough to fire!"

"I'm off," Tris said, slipping a ring onto his finger, and casting a spell.

He jumped off the side of the ship, landing gracefully on the surface of the water, and raced at inhuman speeds towards the Red Falcon, where he leaped up, and onto the deck, sword at the ready.

Floki Longhammer had told him his blade wouldn't break again. Time to test that theory.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:15 AM

Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 09:47 PM)

"I haven't been drowning in my own ships for the last fortnight in Sheo-bloody-gorad because I meant to abandon Vvardenfell," Helseth replied. "Since no help seemed to be forthcoming ..."

"How is the weather in Molag Mar?" Barenziah asked. "Is it more clement?"

"Allerleirauh and I are of the same mind, even if my eye is on Caldera and Pelagiad," Enman said. "But they are too far inland. We should sweep up from the south ..."

"If I might make my own plea," Dinara said, with a small smile, but eyes that glistened as if holding back tears. "It may not be militarily strategic, or important spiritually, but the occupied south is important to me."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 25 2005, 12:16 AM

Falco turned to Erlycn, who was calmly reading a book, as all the chaos went on around him. "Erlycn, how many mages can cast fireballs accurately?"

He yawned, "4 besides myself captain."

"Defensive maneuver 32!"

"alright" he said caually and shuffled off to gather his apprentices.

Just then Tris leaped aboard. Falco looked at him simply and said "Toss him overboard, don't be gentle"

The crew brandished their lethal array of weapons and some twenty men rushed Tris at once.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:18 AM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:00 PM)

"Tris!" Goranthir yelled after him. "Be prepared to abandon ship!"

The Akarvina was just within range, and the archers had been told not to wait for the order. They lit their arrows ablaze and fired them onto the deck and sails of the Red Falcon.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:22 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 09:56 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 09:57 PM)

Kethiah nodded. "Your advice, both of your advice, is logical. But I can't help thinking that if I wanted revenge on someone, I would certainly go after her husband and stepchildren ... And I only perhaps would go after her business partner and his children ... I suppose I think that way because I don't want to live in terror everyday that what I'm doing now is terribly selfish, and I'm putting these people's lives in danger, when I should really be living in a cave somewhere ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:24 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:02 AM)

Dinner at Castle Mournhold
"I haven't been drowning in my own ships for the last fortnight in Sheo-bloody-gorad because I meant to abandon Vvardenfell," Helseth replied. "Since no help seemed to be forthcoming ..."

"How is the weather in Molag Mar?" Barenziah asked. "Is it more clement?"

"Allerleirauh and I are of the same mind, even if my eye is on Caldera and Pelagiad," Enman said. "But they are too far inland. We should sweep up from the south ..."

"If I might make my own plea," Dinara said, with a small smile, but eyes that glistened as if holding back tears. "It may not be militarily strategic, or important spiritually, but the occupied south is important to me."

"We need more hands," Allerleirauh said, with a nod in Helseth's direction to acknowledge his temper. "No one intends to lose anything, I'm sure. But this isn't working in Vvardenfell. At the present time, the Redoran hold almost all of the pilgrimage sites. That is of more importance strategically than you may realize; they use them to rouse the hearts of the people and recruit to their armies. Not to mention that cutting the Temple off from the shrines is also cutting us off from the blessings of ALMSIVI, which considerably augment our military might. I don't think it's possible to hold the Imperial sites without holding the surrounding territories."

She smiled at Barenziah. "The dust of Molag Mar pervades everything, as always. I can smell it as we speak."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 12:28 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:09 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
Kethiah nodded. "Your advice, both of your advice, is logical. But I can't help thinking that if I wanted revenge on someone, I would certainly go after her husband and stepchildren ... And I only perhaps would go after her business partner and his children ... I suppose I think that way because I don't want to live in terror everyday that what I'm doing now is terribly selfish, and I'm putting these people's lives in danger, when I should really be living in a cave somewhere ..."

"Living in a cave isn't living," Loranna says. "It's hiding away from the world. And sooner or later, people who want to find you will still find a cave."

She shakes her head. "It's not selfish to want a chance at happiness and belonging; everyone wants that. Isidor knew who he was getting close to; it's not like you hid your profession from him."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 25 2005, 12:33 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 09:05 PM)

The Akarvina
"Tris!" Goranthir yelled after him. "Be prepared to abandon ship!"

The Akarvina was just within range, and the archers had been told not to wait for the order. They lit their arrows ablaze and fired them onto the deck and sails of the Red Falcon.

Falco looked up to see arrows raining down upon him. He rolled to the side to dodge one particularly nasty missile. The ones landing on the deck were not burning particularly well, as it was wet with the fog. Those hitting the sails mostly passed through harmlessly, although there were several small fires in them. Falco quickly dispatched 3 men with buckets of water to douse them. Aproximately 3 crewmen were killed by the arrows and about twice that wounded.

But then, to Falco's delight, came Erlycn and his apprentices. They quickly began concentating their fire spells on the sails of the Akarvina, hoping to cripple her. The good thing about spells as compared to arrows was that they didn't tear through the sails without too much fire damage. They completely incinerated them. Falco hoped that would be the case this time....

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:38 AM

Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:11 PM)

"Then let's stop talking about what we don't have, and start talking about what we do," Barenziah said. "Thanks to my son's genius, we have almost all the mainland. And we still have a foothold in Molag Mar. We use that as a launching point for the invasion ..."

"Invasion? Mother, we hold the mainland by our presence. There are plenty of Indoril and Redoran supporters who would be happy to take it all back as soon as we plough forward with a massive invasion," Helseth said, looking at Allerleirauh. "You truly don't have to lecture me about the importance of the Temple strategically. If you'd like, I can draw up a map the entire kingdom, and I can show you how many shrines to Almsivi I've saved on the mainland ..."

"You're being petulant, Helseth," Enman said, slapping the king on the shoulder, and receiving back a glare. "How many ships and men do you need to take Molag Mar, and hold it?"

Helseth thought a moment, and gave the Imperial Prince a figure. It was high.

"Done," said Enman. "Is there dessert?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:39 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 25 2005, 12:20 AM)

Tris had paused for a moment, stunned, as the pirates rushed him.

"Falco, you SCUM!" he shouted, finally moving.

More than anything else, he wanted to feel Falco's gizzard on the sharp end of his sword. But Falco wasn't setting fire to the Akarvina. Tris spoke the words of a spell and felt puissant strength and skill flood his limbs. He lunged forward, going through several men to reach the mages. One of the mages went down, Tris's sword lodged in his chest.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:40 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 10:15 PM)

"You misunderstand, I wouldn't hide in a cave because I'm afraid for myself, but I'm afraid for other people," Kethiah frowned. "Isidor knew what I do, or did, but ..." She couldn't help laughing. "I love him completely, but he doesn't always think things through ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:42 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:25 AM)

Dinner at Castle Mournhold
"Then let's stop talking about what we don't have, and start talking about what we do," Barenziah said. "Thanks to my son's genius, we have almost all the mainland. And we still have a foothold in Molag Mar. We use that as a launching point for the invasion ..."

"Invasion? Mother, we hold the mainland by our presence. There are plenty of Indoril and Redoran supporters who would be happy to take it all back as soon as we plough forward with a massive invasion," Helseth said, looking at Allerleirauh. "You truly don't have to lecture me about the importance of the Temple strategically. If you'd like, I can draw up a map the entire kingdom, and I can show you how many shrines to Almsivi I've saved on the mainland ..."

"You're being petulant, Helseth," Enman said, slapping the king on the shoulder, and receiving back a glare. "How many ships and men do you need to take Molag Mar, and hold it?"

Helseth thought a moment, and gave the Imperial Prince a figure. It was high.

"Done," said Enman. "Is there dessert?"

"Very good, sir," Allerleirauh said.

Allerleirauh raised an eyebrow towards the queen mother, on the side away from Enman. The meaning of the look was, Do we discuss what I mentioned earlier?

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 12:47 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:27 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"You misunderstand, I wouldn't hide in a cave because I'm afraid for myself, but I'm afraid for other people," Kethiah frowned. "Isidor knew what I do, or did, but ..." She couldn't help laughing. "I love him completely, but he doesn't always think things through ..."

"Kethiah, do what you must," Dragon said. "If you must live alone to know your family safe and be happy, do that. I do; it's why I have no family now. But I don't see the point in comforting yourself with pretty lies. The father of your children and your lover is a target, whether you marry him or not. And I think Isidor would be angry if you made a decision that he was unworthy to face your dangers with you. You don't take it well when he treats you as a child; don't treat him as one."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 12:54 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 01:34 AM)

"No one likes to be taken lightly," Loranna says, nodding to Dragon. "Dragon's right; Isidor may not think things through as well as others, but he's got a strong and loyal heart. He's a true and valiant man, and no stranger to danger - and, the two of you compliment each other so well."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 12:55 AM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:26 PM)

It was a difficult shot for the mages of the Red Falcon to strike the masts of the Akarvina. With a fifty foot forecastle in their sight range, they were forced to arc their shots. Most missed completely, though causing considerable consternation on the deck where they landed before being extinguished.

One, however struck home, and the foresail behind Goranthir ballooned up in flame.

Goranthir was distracted, looking at Tris in his impossible battle, but the sailors on the Akarvina didn't have to be told what to do. They unhooked the sail and let it fly away into the wind, like a fiery shadow. That left two sails and a rowing galley to race after the Red Falcon. The Akarvina was still fast, faster than a typical warship, but it began to lag behind.

"Another volley!" Goranthir cried as they started to fall out of range.

The flame arrows launched once again.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:02 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 10:41 PM)

"Please don't condescend when you're asking me not to take things lightly," Kethiah replied, a little of the old anger in her eyes. "Isidor is an adult, and I agree, he's taking his own chances by being with me. But I am not talking of him. I am talking of two eleven year old children who didn't choose to take a former assassin under their roofs, one of whom but a short time ago was at the edge of a knife. I know I'm being a bit unreasonable with my pretty lies, but damn it, isn't that how most people get through life without going insane?"

Kethiah shook her head, frowning. "My apologies. It was too close of a call today, and my nerves are frayed. You don't deserve my anger."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 01:10 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 12:49 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
"Please don't condescend when you're asking me not to take things lightly," Kethiah replied, a little of the old anger in her eyes. "Isidor is an adult, and I agree, he's taking his own chances by being with me. But I am not talking of him. I am talking of two eleven year old children who didn't choose to take a former assassin under their roofs, one of whom but a short time ago was at the edge of a knife. I know I'm being a bit unreasonable with my pretty lies, but damn it, isn't that how most people get through life without going insane?"

Kethiah shook her head, frowning. "My apologies. It was too close of a call today, and my nerves are frayed. You don't deserve my anger."

"It's all right, Kethiah," Dragon said. "These are good questions. What about the children? You could send them back to their perfectly good mother in Skyrim."

He paused, to give her a moment to get angry, if she was going to.

"They're here not because their mother didn't love them, or feed them - they were well cared for - but because their mother is an immoral, wretched creature. No child will live under such care if he has a choice. It's like standing on water. There are far worse things you can do to a child than to teach him that life has risks, and that some things are worth fighting, and even dying for. Now. You would rather not see them die, because dead children don't learn any lesson well. That's why I'm here today to apologize to you. We're not going to tell pretty lies; we're going to make your children safe. Whatever it takes. You have enemies? Tell old Dragon, and I'll help you settle them, or at least help you see them coming. Does that help at all?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 25 2005, 01:10 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 24 2005, 09:42 PM)

The Akarvina
It was a difficult shot for the mages of the Red Falcon to strike the masts of the Akarvina. With a fifty foot forecastle in their sight range, they were forced to arc their shots. Most missed completely, though causing considerable consternation on the deck where they landed before being extinguished.

One, however struck home, and the foresail behind Goranthir ballooned up in flame.

Goranthir was distracted, looking at Tris in his impossible battle, but the sailors on the Akarvina didn't have to be told what to do. They unhooked the sail and let it fly away into the wind, like a fiery shadow. That left two sails and a rowing galley to race after the Red Falcon. The Akarvina was still fast, faster than a typical warship, but it began to lag behind.

"Another volley!" Goranthir cried as they started to fall out of range.

The flame arrows launched once again.

The volley had the same effect as before, it slightly slowed them but not enough to warrant Goranthir catching up. Falco knew this to be the last volley. Goranthir wouldn't be in range for another. The foresail's loss was to much.

As for Tris...

The breton would have been quite surprised to find Grugzock smashing the back of his head with the pole of an axe had he realized what happened. But the breton was instantly knocked out cold by the massive strength of the orc. Grugzock easily lifted Tris and heaved his limp form into the sea, sword still in hand.

OOC: Out for the night

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 01:12 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 25 2005, 12:57 AM)

Tris had never removed the ring of water walking. He hit the water hard, falling from the two story height of the deck, and lay still.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 01:18 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:49 AM)

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 01:57 AM)

Loranna blushes, the blush she always gets when she feels she just went and said too much, trying to be helpful and just making things worse instead. She lets Dragon speak his piece, again admiring the older man's wisdom, and his ability to cut to the chase.

Someday.

"It's all right Kethiah; I understand," she says, hoping she gets the apology right. "I shouldn't have spoken so glibly about things you already know and have thought over a lot."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:22 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:57 PM)

"It doesn't help much, except it was sweet of you to be concerned," Kethiah smiled. "Dragon, I don't have the least idea what a normal childhood is supposed to be. I was taught not to have the slightest qualm about putting a dagger through someone's neck, or breaking his back, for that matter. I have killed hundreds of people in my career, Dragon, and all of them wealthy and powerful, so I could not possibly tell you all the names of all my enemies ..."

She took Dragon's and Loranna's hands in hers. "Thank you though. That's some unpleasant medicine you're forcing down my throat, but I need it."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 01:28 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:09 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
"It doesn't help much, except it was sweet of you to be concerned," Kethiah smiled. "Dragon, I don't have the least idea what a normal childhood is supposed to be. I was taught not to have the slightest qualm about putting a dagger through someone's neck, or breaking his back, for that matter. I have killed hundreds of people in my career, Dragon, and all of them wealthy and powerful, so I could not possibly tell you all the names of all my enemies ..."

She took Dragon's and Loranna's hands in hers. "Thank you though. That's some unpleasant medicine you're forcing down my throat, but I need it."

"I was also raised a little strangely," Dragon said, pressing her hand in his. Dragon's hands were very large, and very warm. "Kethiah, I know what you were, and what you are, and I don't have any fear for children in your care. You'll do well. We aren't far, if you need us. Let's you and I talk tonight about security measures. No more wandering about in the woods, obviously, not with war so near. And the children need to know a few spells for emergencies, and perhaps have an item, or even have touched Loranna's mirror."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:30 AM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:59 PM)

Tris had never removed the ring of water walking. He hit the water hard, falling from the two story height of the deck, and lay still.

Goranthir dove off the Akarvina, and swam strong and hard to Tris, through the crashing shoreline waves. He didn't bother to watch the Red Falcon as it doubled the distance. By the time he and Tris were pulled back onto the ship by the crew, the Red Falcon was gone.

Goranthir carried Tris to his cabin, and the ship's healer checked his wounds, and cast the healing spells.

"Take us back to Ald Raathim," said Goranthir, holding Tris's hand.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 01:33 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:17 AM)

The Akarvina
Goranthir dove off the Akarvina, and swam strong and hard to Tris, through the crashing shoreline waves. He didn't bother to watch the Red Falcon as it doubled the distance. By the time he and Tris were pulled back onto the ship by the crew, the Red Falcon was gone.

Goranthir carried Tris to his cabin, and the ship's healer checked his wounds, and cast the healing spells.

"Take us back to Ald Raathim," said Goranthir, holding Tris's hand.

"Don't you dare shave my head," Tris groaned, opening his eyes. It took a few moments for the events that had immediately preceded the knock on the head to come back to him.

"I saw him, the Butcher of the Inner Sea," he said, sitting up. He had to swallow, twice, like an angry cat. "Loranna should have killed him when she had the chance. It's Falco. Falco's on that ship, giving orders."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 01:34 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:09 AM)

This time, Loranna doesn't say anything, letting her smile and squeeze of Kethiah's hand answer for her.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 02:15 AM)

She also doesn't mention how she herself was raised strangely; that went without question after the things she did in the early days.

"Recall amulets are fairly cheap to get," Loranna points out, "and there are some surprisingly useful spells that don't require much magicka to use. We can talk things over with the kids, see what their interests are and go accordingly. And they're welcome to touch the mirror too; there's always someone in the study, even if I'm not there personally."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:34 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 11:15 PM)

Kethiah nodded. "That's not enough. My children aren't the only ones in this town. There should be a curfew, Loranna ... My regulars at the Noggin won't like it, but that's tough. All the children of Ald Raathim should know some defensive spells -- they should teach them at the school Tyradil, Tilitalia, and Luxi go to ... After all, in this case, it could have been any child in the woods who was grabbed by that man ..."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:40 AM

Goranthir's Cabin, the Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 11:20 PM)

Goranthir felt his head swim from emotion. First, relief when Tris stirred; then, he began to laugh at Tris's comment about shaving his head; and, then, incredulity, anger, sorrow, at what Tris said next.

"Falco is the Butcher of the Bay?" Goranthir gasped. "I can't believe it. I mean, he was a thief, but ... now, he's some sort of homicidal maniac?"

He remembered back to the wedding, what a ridiculous clown he had been, pretending to be a musician for the free food.

"And why would he hate us so much?"

And then, it was back to relief. Goranthir kissed the bump on Tris's head. "We're heading back home. I'm glad you had that bloody ring. How do you feel?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 01:42 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:21 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
Kethiah nodded. "That's not enough. My children aren't the only ones in this town. There should be a curfew, Loranna ... My regulars at the Noggin won't like it, but that's tough. All the children of Ald Raathim should know some defensive spells -- they should teach them at the school Tyradil, Tilitalia, and Luxi go to ... After all, in this case, it could have been any child in the woods who was grabbed by that man ..."

Loranna closes her eyes for a moment. "... Good ideas, Kethiah," she says, "though I can already imagine how well the curfew will go over. As for the spell lessons, I'll talk with the Mage Guild about getting that set up. We may wish to consider extending the spell lessons to any citizen who is interested and has at least some talent for magic, too; if Redoran is willing to target children these days, I imagine they'll try something even bigger next time."

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 01:43 AM

The company, or triad as Shaka had thought of them recently, materialized in Gideon.

Shaka and the two women stepped out of the Mages Guild and into a large, Imperial style town in the swamplands. Reminds me of nothing so much as a larger Caldera, thought Shaka with a pang of nostalgia.

The company walked down a boardwalk, looking about in some wonder. Even Shaka had never visited Gideon. Telera was still somewhat distracted by her book on Lord Landon's adventures.

Shaka stopped for a moment when he saw his first Archein. "Tel, Anya; look at that," he murmured. The Argonian that Shaka had spotted walked like a lord of creation; his scales gleamed like jewels of several colors.

Unlike Shaka, the Archein had three massive horns, and a frilled collar of bone. The battlemage had to wonder for a second if the Empire favored the Archeins primarily on their appearance.

The triad looked for an inn for the night. Tomorrow they would search for their guide, Walks-On-Reeds.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:51 AM

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 10:29 PM)

"Very good, sir," Allerleirauh said.

Allerleirauh raised an eyebrow towards the queen mother, on the side away from Enman. The meaning of the look was, Do we discuss what I mentioned earlier?

Barenziah nodded, as the dessert was brought out.

"You have heard that the Tribunal may still live and be battling on Vvardenfell on the side of our enemies?" Barenziah asked Enman. Enman nearly choked on his dessert, while Helseth glared.

"Why, yes, I did hear that, and I wondered if we would politely not mention that our armies wil be facing living Gods who could flood us all if they put their mind to it," Enman chuckled. "You have a plan about fighting them? Maybe bring back in that bloke that lived in the volcano."

"The Patriarch believes very strongly that they are imitations of the Tribunal, who, save Vivec, truly are in their graves," said Barenziah. "The question is who are they?"

Helseth nodded, his mood brightening. "And how can we unmask them for who they are at a politically inconvenient time for them?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 01:54 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:27 AM)

Goranthir's Cabin, the Akarvina
Goranthir felt his head swim from emotion. First, relief when Tris stirred; then, he began to laugh at Tris's comment about shaving his head; and, then, incredulity, anger, sorrow, at what Tris said next.

"Falco is the Butcher of the Bay?" Goranthir gasped. "I can't believe it. I mean, he was a thief, but ... now, he's some sort of homicidal maniac?"

He remembered back to the wedding, what a ridiculous clown he had been, pretending to be a musician for the free food.

"And why would he hate us so much?"

And then, it was back to relief. Goranthir kissed the bump on Tris's head. "We're heading back home. I'm glad you had that bloody ring. How do you feel?"

"I'm fine, silly boy," Tris said. "Your healers are good ones. But I'm angry. I feel - betrayed. I guess I wanted to believe all along that there was more to Falco, and now it turns out to have been wishful thinking. Why does anyone hate anyone? We're bigger than he is. We make him feel small."

He tried to sound sure of himself. But Falco's father's words were in the back of his mind. Eats-with-claws had said, Shoulda given him the axe. It's better than he deserves. And Falco had saved the old Argonian from slavery.

Well, maybe Falco's father just knew him better than the rest of them did.

Tris turned to kiss Goranthir. He wasn't sorry that Goranthir hadn't had to see one of the ships the Butcher had taken.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 01:58 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 24 2005, 11:29 PM)

"Exactly," Kethiah said. "And it's important we proceed with confidence. If people believe we are under imminent attack, they'll panic. The announcements about magic training should be shown as an opportunity granted by the generosity of the Lady of Daruhn, not something that must be done because the town is being overrun with kidnappers ... I play a game with Tilitalia every night to improve her balance -- tomorrow, Isidor and I will talk to her teacher about having all the children come to the Nymph and Noggin for games after school ... Games which will teach them what to do when they're under attack, but still be fun ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:38 AM)

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold
Barenziah nodded, as the dessert was brought out.

"You have heard that the Tribunal may still live and be battling on Vvardenfell on the side of our enemies?" Barenziah asked Enman. Enman nearly choked on his dessert, while Helseth glared.

"Why, yes, I did hear that, and I wondered if we would politely not mention that our armies wil be facing living Gods who could flood us all if they put their mind to it," Enman chuckled. "You have a plan about fighting them? Maybe bring back in that bloke that lived in the volcano."

"The Patriarch believes very strongly that they are imitations of the Tribunal, who, save Vivec, truly are in their graves," said Barenziah. "The question is who are they?"

Helseth nodded, his mood brightening. "And how can we unmask them for who they are at a politically inconvenient time for them?"

"I didn't say quite that, your majesty," Allerleirauh said. "The Tribunal have real power, and Vivec still lives. It's not a new thing for the Dunmer to worship their ancestors, nor for the ancestors to appear and offer help. ALMSIVI are the fathers and mothers of all their people.

"But I know that these reports are not instances of ALMISIVI appearing. Vivec in particular is a friend of the present Emperor, your father. He traveled to Cyrodiil to speak with him, out of love; he has always listened to his advice. Vivec's heart has not changed. Nor do I believe that Sotha Sil is so changed that he shows his face in a public market like a troubadour.

"I am prepared to send agents to Vvardenfell, to discover the truth. The danger is that any Dunmer agent will desire to believe that their walking gods have returned, no matter how far-fetched it may be."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:04 AM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 11:41 PM)

Goranthir shook his head. "If you feel betrayed, imagine how poor Isidor is going to feel."

He kissed Tris back, and whispered. "Thank you for changing in a good way."

And he meant it.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:11 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:45 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"Exactly," Kethiah said. "And it's important we proceed with confidence. If people believe we are under imminent attack, they'll panic. The announcements about magic training should be shown as an opportunity granted by the generosity of the Lady of Daruhn, not something that must be done because the town is being overrun with kidnappers ... I play a game with Tilitalia every night to improve her balance -- tomorrow, Isidor and I will talk to her teacher about having all the children come to the Nymph and Noggin for games after school ... Games which will teach them what to do when they're under attack, but still be fun ..."

"I haven't noticed that the people of Daruhn are prone to panic," Dragon said. "They are proud to be the defenders of this land. After tonight, Tilitalia will know there's more to it than just games. What we need aren't games, but drills. A calm, ordered response, practiced over and over, until it becomes second nature and can be performed in a stressful situation."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:11 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 11:50 PM)

"I didn't say quite that, your majesty" Allerleirauh said. "The Tribunal have real power, and Vivec still lives. It's not a new thing for the Dunmer to worship their ancestors, nor for the ancestors to appear and offer help. ALMSIVI are the fathers and mothers of all their people.

"But I know that these reports are not instances of ALMISIVI appearing. Vivec in particular is a friend of the present Emperor, your father. He traveled to Cyrodiil to speak with him, out of love; he has always listened to his advice. Vivec's heart has not changed. Nor do I believe that Sotha Sil is so changed that he shows his face in a public market like a troubadour.

"I am prepared to send agents to Vvardenfell, to discover the truth. The danger is that any Dunmer agent will desire to believe that their walking gods have returned, no matter how far-fetched it may be."

"Not every Dunmer," Helseth said.

"Son, don't start being blasphemous around the Patriarch," Barenziah frowned, laying her hand on his arm.

"It's not blasphemy, it's simple truth that if we want an agent to go in and not be seduced by the promise that the Tribunal lives, we could use any Dunmer raised outside of Morrowind. Someone who can be objective because it is not his true faith," the King said. "Goranthir, for example."

"That's a dangerous assignment for your nephew," Queen Dinara said.

"The lad loves danger, volunteered for the Vaults of Gemin right away, when he was nearly starving from walking across the continent," Helseth said. "I think he'd be an excellent candidate, but really any Dunmer who can pretend to be with the faithful, and secretly aiming to unmask the false Tribunal would do..."

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 02:12 AM

Shaka, Telera and Anya found a neighborhood with inns that seemed better than the usual run of sailors' dives. He paid for the night and climbed the stairs to the second floor of the three-story tavern.

"Your room is over there," he told them, unlocking a smaller room for himself. "I hope you'll sleep well."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:15 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 24 2005, 11:58 PM)

"You have just described a game," Kethiah smiled. "If you want to, you can take an assortment of the children and try to make them into little soldiers, and I'll take an assortment of the children and use my exercises which are both educational and enjoyable, and I'll bet you my share of the Nymph and Noggin that my children are better prepared."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:17 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 01:58 AM)

"It's no more dangerous than what he's doing now," Allerleirauh said. "I can raise two objections; first, Goranthir is so beautiful that he's easily recognized, and it would be very bad if he ever became a hostage. Second, I think he'll miss the Akarvina. But those objections are minor."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 02:18 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:45 AM)

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 02:58 AM)

Loranna considers Dragon's and Kethiah's words carefully.

"I like the idea of having people practice basic spells to defend themselves," she says, nodding to Kethiah. "And Dragon makes good points; I imagine everyone would be more than willing to practice drills and spells to help defend their homes and their children."

"Let's work out details now, between us three, and put things in motion come the morning," she says. "If Redoran tries to escalate their scare tactics, we'll be ready for them."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 02:19 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 24 2005, 11:59 PM)

Telera squeezed herself into the smaller room before Shaka could get in and sat in the middle of the room, “Your room is over there.”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:23 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:02 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"You have just described a game," Kethiah smiled. "If you want to, you can take an assortment of the children and try to make them into little soldiers, and I'll take an assortment of the children and use my exercises which are both educational and enjoyable, and I'll bet you my share of the Nymph and Noggin that my children are better prepared."

"By the Nine, I don't want to run a bar," Dragon said, laughing. "Your job is much harder than mine, Kethiah.

"I've no desire to bicker with you, but a large part of any such training is to learn what fear feels like, and how to manage it. That's why sergeants shout in the faces of new recruits; it's not that they particularly enjoy shouting - although some of them do - but that the soldiers must learn to respond when they are rattled and distressed. If I could teach them to stay alive without hurting their feelings, believe me, I would."

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 02:23 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 03:06 AM)

Telera squeezed herself into the smaller room before Shaka could get into the room he had indicated as his and sat in the middle of the room, “Your room is over there.”

He smiled faintly and put his hands on her shoulders. "What about you?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:25 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:04 AM)

Helseth grinned a little at Allerleirauh's comment on Goranthir's looks.

"The nephew of the King who is never at court is not as an easily recognized figure," Barenziah replied. "No one has ever guessed his identity without being told it first -- even when he was in the royal guard, the other guards did not guess who he was. But, extrapolating on your objection about Goranthir not wanting to leave the Akarvina ... He would have to want to do this assignment. And he has no training in spycraft."

"I'm sure he's a fine lad," the Imperial Prince Enman added. "But there should be someone of more experience with him as well."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 02:29 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 12:10 AM)

He smiled faintly and put his hands on her shoulders. "What about you?"

“Have a good night with Anya,” Telera said, “I’ll be fine.”

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:30 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:10 AM)

"I'm going to assume there's been a miscommunication between us," said Kethiah with a wink. "You are talking about training the townsfolk, right? I am talking about training the children. The games are for them."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:32 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:12 AM)

Allerleirauh smiled at Barenziah. "Tris Gaerington says he guessed who Goranthir was before he was told. But not from his looks, I'll grant. It was that he won. A family trait, which makes me much more optimistic.

"I intend to go myself, of course. But I am indisputably recognizable. I do not intend to travel with companions. I will see what can be done about finding a more experienced spy to travel with Goranthir. Must this spy be Dunmer also?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 02:33 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 03:16 AM)

“Have a good night with Anya,” Telera said, “I’ll be fine.”

"Yes, you will," said Shaka, and slung her over his shoulder. He walked to the larger room, kicking the door shut behind him.

Shaka knew that if Telera decided to fight him, his gesture wouldn't go too smoothly. But it seemed worth it.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 02:35 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 03:17 AM)

"This is why we work out the details beforehand," Loranna says, unable to resist, a smile coming to her face.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:35 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:17 AM)

"All the more important," Dragon said. "Children are easily cowed. It doesn't occur to most of them to speak up when a teacher makes an error; how then should they be trained to defy the orders of a kidnapper?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:39 AM

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:19 AM)

"Not necessarily, the Redorans and Indoril, like all Houses, have non-Dunmer members," Helseth replied. "Though it would certainly be less suspicious if he or she were Dunmeri."

"I don't see any Cyrodiils or Nords being greeted with open arms in Vvardenfell at this moment," the Imperial Prince grinned.

"Why don't we just use one or more of the spies who are already in Vvardenfell?" Dinara asked. "Why would we put Goranthir or anyone else in danger, when we could just give the orders to the people who have already infiltrated the place?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:26 AM)

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold
"Not necessarily, the Redorans and Indoril, like all Houses, have non-Dunmer members," Helseth replied. "Though it would certainly be less suspicious if he or she were Dunmeri."

"I don't see any Cyrodiils or Nords being greeted with open arms in Vvardenfell at this moment," the Imperial Prince grinned.

"Why don't we just use one or more of the spies who are already in Vvardenfell?" Dinara asked. "Why would we put Goranthir or anyone else in danger, when we could just give the orders to the people who have already infiltrated the place?"

"If my spies already in Vvardenfell were of any use to me, I wouldn't be wondering what in Oblivion is going on there," Allerleirauh said. "Begging your majesty's pardon. Perhaps you know someone suitable."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:49 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:22 AM)

Kethiah sighed. "So, you intend to scream like a drill sergeant daily to every toddler in Ald Raathim? I know you have the best intentions, Dragon, and like you, I don't want to bicker, but I strongly suspect, no, I know that what you'll have at the end of that exercise is a hysterical, blubbering nursery. I am with you completely on drills for the townsfolk. But you have to remember that children -- even at war -- are children. The same way you train adult soldiers does not apply to them. Their minds work differently."

She smiled. "Six months of being a mom, and I talk like I know what I'm saying ... But I do. Dragon, I really can teach the children of Ald Raathim to defend themselves, if you'll let me do it."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 02:50 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 12:20 AM)

Telera started in shock pulling a leg beck to drive into his gut and planting a fist into his ribs, then she stopped and accepted his carrying her, she hadn’t wanted to spend the night alone in a new place anyway. As he carried her she started drumming out a little pattern on Shaka’s back as she said, “For the record it generally goes much better if don’t try carrying someone like a sack of ash yams.

Remembering her nights with him, she started, “Well if we’re all going to be in the same bed then-I’m doing it again, aren’t I? Why couldn’t you be a girl Redguard? Oh forget I said that.”

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 02:52 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 03:36 AM)

Loranna coughs a bit. "Not to offer offense to either of you," she says, "but Dragon - Kethiah was trained from a young age in the assassin trade, and she's a mother. Those sounds like good qualifications to consider."

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 02:55 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 03:37 AM)

Telera started in shock pulling a leg beck to drive into his gut and planting a fist into his ribs, then she stopped and accepted his carrying her, she hadn’t wanted to spend the night alone in a new place anyway. As he carried her she started drumming out a little pattern on Shaka’s back as she said, “For the record it generally goes much better if don’t try carrying someone like a sack of potatoes.

Remembering her nights with him, she started, “Well if we’re all going to be in the same bed then-I’m doing it again, aren’t I? Why couldn’t you be a girl Redguard? Oh forget I said that.”

As he entered the other room, Shaka swung her down. "First, you're right, I'll try to be more gallant about my carries next time. Second, the female Redguard bit . . . Not an option."

He hugged her tightly. "We still make a good team, elf. The rest we'll have to figure out as we go along."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 02:58 AM

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:32 AM)

Dinara looked to Helseth, who shrugged. Dinara sighed and shook her head. "I don't."

"Our spies in Vvardenfell can be useful contacts once Goranthir and his team are in place," Barenziah said. "Before we proceed any further, let's talk to him and make certain he's willing to do it."

"A formality," Helseth nodded. "He'll do it."

"Now, I hate to bring it up," Enman said, uncomfortably for the first time in the evening. "But I read this tract ... it sounded like perfect flapdoodle and balderdash ..."

"That it was," said Barenziah, with a sidelong glance at Allerleirauh. "I know the one you're talking about."

"Well, that's good," the Imperial Prince laughed. "I'd hate to have your spy turn into zombie or something midway through the mission."

Dinara, Barenziah, and Helseth smiled politely while the Imperial Prince laughed, but there was worry in all of their eyes.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 02:58 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:36 AM)

"I'm certainly willing to let you do part of it," Dragon said. "Kethiah, I was a father. And a teacher, of actual children, at an actual orphange. I'm not speaking in theoreticals; I know my method works. We weren't discussing toddlers, but very young children are capable of behaving like adults, if they are given sufficient understanding and motivation. Children are incredibly courageous, if you give them an arena in which to demonstrate their courage. They don't blubber. They thrive."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 03:04 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:45 AM)

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold
Dinara looked to Helseth, who shrugged. Dinara sighed and shook her head. "I don't."

"Our spies in Vvardenfell can be useful contacts once Goranthir and his team are in place," Barenziah said. "Before we proceed any further, let's talk to him and make certain he's willing to do it."

"A formality," Helseth nodded. "He'll do it."

"Now, I hate to bring it up," Enman said, uncomfortably for the first time in the evening. "But I read this tract ... it sounded like perfect flapdoodle and balderdash ..."

"That it was," said Barenziah, with a sidelong glance at Allerleirauh. "I know the one you're talking about."

"Well, that's good," the Imperial Prince laughed. "I'd hate to have your spy turn into a zombie or something midway through the mission."

Dinara, Barenziah, and Helseth smiled politely while the Imperial Prince laughed, but there was worry in all of their eyes.

There was no worry in Allerleirauh's.

"You need not fear Mannimarco at the present time. My sources say he's in a bit of a tangle. In any case, the accusations are clearly absurd. Your Imperial Highness has reason to know that these private printers will print anything, I believe."

Which wasn't a lie; Jelsia and Maranda's tract certainly had been absurd. And Enman certainly did not appear to be a doppleganger, despite the rumors which had fanned the populace into attacking his palace.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 03:11 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:45 AM)

"I don't doubt your wisdom, Dragon, you've proved it over and over again," Kethiah smiled slyly. "And wise as you are, no doubt you know there are other methods than yours, that are just as effective. I can see how confident you are in your ways, and if you look in my eyes, I think you'll see I am no less confident. I did nothing but play as a girl, and when a stranger tried to touch me when I was eight, I broke both his legs. I'm not guessing that games can make children able to defend themselves, I know it."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 03:28 AM

The Dinner at Castle Mournhold

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 12:51 AM)

"Well, it had to be said, I suppose," Enman chuckled, and surpressed a yawn. "I'm terribly sorry. I've been traveling for a week straight on that barge, and I'm no sailor."

"Your rooms are ready, of course," said Dinara, happy to be useful. She had clearly felt out of her depth all evening.

"Then I'll retire and we can continue our negotiations over breakfast," the Imperial Prince smiled, and withdrew.

The Royal Family bowed to him.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 04:52 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:58 AM)

"I don't doubt your techniques, Kethiah; not at all," Dragon said. "But the children need to know what they're learning, and why. Children usually do know, anyway, no matter how you try to keep things from them. Your children are old enough that they could become parents themselves, if you don't keep an eye on them. They're old enough to know what the games are for."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 04:59 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 02:39 AM)

"I admit that I was fooling myself thinking Tyradil and Tilitalia were not in danger because of my past," Kethiah replied. "I did not consciously keep the danger from them. When Isidor is back, I will talk to him about discussing it with them. I remember when I first met them, they asked me whether I was Isidor's lover, and I told them I was. They understood that. They asked me what had happened to my eye, and I asked them if they knew what an assassin was, and they said yes, and I explained it ..."

"I regret that I didn't tell them that I was an assassin myself, and I will rectify that as soon as I am able to," Kethiah took a deep breath, obviously not looking forward to that conversation. "I don't think I'm too late."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 05:09 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 04:46 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
"I admit that I was fooling myself thinking Tyradil and Tilitalia were not in danger because of my past," Kethiah replied. "I did not consciously keep the danger from them. When Isidor is back, I will talk to him about discussing it with them. I remember when I first met them, they asked me whether I was Isidor's lover, and I told them I was. They understood that. They asked me what had happened to my eye, and I asked them if they knew what an assassin was, and they said yes, and I explained it ..."

"I regret that I didn't tell them that I was an assassin myself, and I will rectify that as soon as I am able to," Kethiah took a deep breath, obviously not looking forward to that conversation. "I don't think I'm too late."

"Children don't need to know all your secrets," Dragon said, smiling for the first time in a long while. "You're a public figure here; it's not hard to find you. Either your enemies are sadistically waiting to make a public display of your severed head and gore-splashed environs, to demonstrate to all and sundry that you can't leave The Life, or you're past the greatest danger. Let's concentrate on keeping your children out of the woods on a day when there's been an alert, teach them what to do if they should happen to wander into a Redoran patrol, and try to sleep well at night."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 05:15 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 05:56 AM)

Loranna had been listening to Kethiah and Dragon talk, head bowed, eyes on her belly. Now, she looks up and smiles.

"That sounds like a plan," she says, pushing aside her own thoughts for now.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 25 2005, 05:21 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 03:02 AM)

Loranna had been listening to Kethiah and Dragon talk, head bowed, eyes on her belly. Now, she looks up and smiles.

"That sounds like a plan," she says, pushing aside her own thoughts for now.

"Indeed," Kethiah nodded. There were more people coming into the tavern, and she rose to take care of them. "Thanks for the advice. I better get back to work."

(OOC -- Outta here for the night)

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 11:37 AM

The morning sun was filtering in past the shutters; Shaka had wanted to sleep past dawn anyway.

He propped his head on one arm and studied the sleeping Anya and Telera, still in each others' arms. Shaka brushed the dark brown hair back from Tel's face, and saw her eyes flicker into wakefulness.

"Tel, I know where to find our guide," he said softly. "The clerk told me there's enough demand in Gideon for swamp guides that they have their own guild, a small one."

Shaka was in no hurry to start out, and slipped an arm around the two women for a moment.

"Did that book on Landon contain anything useful?" he asked idly.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 01:50 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 09:24 AM)

“Not sure, a lot of stuff about the traps and trials he faced on his way to facing the lich, but half of those sound inflated to make for better drama. The fight with the lich isn’t much help in figuring out how to fight Manavrio, the phylactery isn’t even mentioned.

“Make sure the guide we get knows his way around Stonewastes the fortress is near there, try to find Reed-Walker, Walk-Reed, the one Maranda suggested,” Telera said, half-asleep. Snuggling back into Anya's arms, she added “I want a puppy.”

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 02:46 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 02:37 PM)

"Um . . . Okay, we can talk about it when we get home, if you don't complain too much about this trip, and we survive the undead killing machine."

Shaka nuzzled the two women and stood up. "Let's get something to eat and check out the guild."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 03:02 PM

The Akarvina

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 25 2005, 02:51 AM)

The Akarvina
Goranthir shook his head. "If you feel betrayed, imagine how poor Isidor is going to feel."

He kissed Tris back, and whispered. "Thank you for changing in a good way."

And he meant it.

The ship pulled into harbor, and Tris and Goranthir were soon on the docks.

Goranthir looked at the Nymph and Noggin. "We need to tell Loranna, Dragon, and Kethiah what we've learned about the Butcher ... and, also, we need to tell Isidor ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 03:44 PM

ooc: Isidor, male Nord, is in the Nymph and Noggin, tavern, looking to speak to Kethiah.

Tyradil and Tilitalia, his children, are in bed.

Tsei, female argonian, is in Ald Raathim, now, but not a bar. In the Mages Guild, actually.

Solise, Female Breton, is well, in the army.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 04:00 PM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 04:31 PM)

ooc: Isidor, male Nord, is in the Nymph and Noggin, tavern, looking to speak to Kethiah.

Kethiah walked into the Nymph, having politely but firmly escorted three drunken soldiers to the Noggin next door.

When she saw Isidor, she gave him a kiss. "How is Tyradil doing?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 04:06 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 04:47 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin
Kethiah walked into the Nymph, having politely but firmly escorted three drunken soldiers to the Noggin next door.

When she saw Isidor, she gave him a kiss. "How is Tyradil doing?"

Isidor smiled back, and said. "He's doing fine. I told him he can take a day off from school, though. What happened with the Redoran after I left?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 04:20 PM

After a late breakfast, they walked to the Guides guild. Walks-On-Reeds proved to have strongly-accented Imperial, so Shaka volunteered to translate for Anya and Telera.

[ "What the bloody hell d'you want ta muck about with Stonewastes for, mate? There's a bloody war on, in case you aint heard."]

"He says he would be honored to use his poor skills in the service of Daruhn's champions," said Shaka.

[ "And who're the bints, your emergency food rations?"]

"Walks-On-Reeds says that your beauty is probably only surpassed by your fighting prowess," said Shaka.

[ "Bleedin poms, going sightseeing in these times. Let's see the color of your money, mate."]

Shaka showed him the money pouch. "Walks says he hesitated to bring up the subject of money, but it was necessary. We'll leave today."

The guide shook his head. ["Crikey. It's a rum old world, innit mate."]

Shaka agreed with him in Hist: "Too bloody right. Stone the crows."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 04:20 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 04:53 PM)

Isidor smiled back, and said. "He's doing fine. I told him he can take a day off from school, though. What happened with the Redoran after I left?"

"Oh, he's fine, he's in custody with Loranna's guards. He won't ever walk again with that broken back, but he's fine," Kethiah smiled, wrapping her arms around Isidor. "We need to talk to the kids about being careful. Dragon, Loranna, and I just talked ad nauseum about how to prepare the kids of Ald Raathim for the war, and the dangers ... He's going to handle the training, but I said I'd help teach the younger kids how to take care of themselves, and watch out for trouble ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 04:35 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:07 PM)

Isidor grimaced for a moment at the thought of a broken back, before hugging Kethiah. "Well, how would we preparre them? Like, mock combat, or what?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 04:41 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 05:22 PM)

Isidor grimaced for a moment at the thought of a broken back, before hugging Kethiah. "Well, how would we preparre them? Like, mock combat, or what?"

"That, drills, just generally telling them what to do under certain circumstances ... For example, if there's an invasion of Ald Raathim, they'll undoubtedly come in at the harbor, right here at the Nymph and Noggin," Kethiah said seriously. "They should know not to come back here if they here about that, but to go to the castle or Mages Guild ... That sort of thing."

"But all the children in Ald Raathim will be getting training after what nearly happened to Tyradil, not just them," Kethiah added. "It's not just important that our family survives, but that the whole town does."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 04:49 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:28 PM)

"Very true," Isidor said, sitting down. "Well, whenever you want to start these drills, just let me know." He looked thoughtful for a moment, and then said, "I just wanted to apologize for before. If you said 'no', that should've been good enough for me. I'm sorry."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 04:58 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 05:36 PM)

"Would 'give me some time to get used to the idea' be better to hear than 'no'?" Kethiah asked, smiling. "I've put you and your kids, and this one," she added, touching her belly. "I've put us all in danger by being here. Dragon and Loranna told me I mustn't fool myself by thinking otherwise ... And I need to figure out for myself if I could live with myself if something ever happened to you or the kids because of me ..."

Goranthir had entered the tavern. "Isidor," he said, signaling to him. He didn't want to interrupt, but his expression made it look like it was urgent.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 05:02 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:45 PM)

"Well," Isidor said, kissing her, "I'm rather you be here, then somewhere else. Regardless of your past, this is war time, and everyone's going to be in danger, it seems."

Seeing Goranthir, he said, "Excuse me."; to Kethiah, then walked over to the prince. "What's up?" Isidor asked, his expression apprehensive.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 05:09 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 05:49 PM)

"Tris and I just got back from patrolling the shoreline," said Goranthir seriously. "The Butcher of the Bay, the pirate who has been terrorizing the Inner Sea for months now, murdering everyone who comes in his path, decorating his ship with their bodies ... He was there, but he got away from us ... Isidor, there's no nice way to put this, but it's Falco. He's the Butcher. We were on our way to tell Loranna, Dragon, and Kethiah, but I know how close you were to him, and ... you had to know first."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 05:17 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:56 PM)

Isidor didn't say anything for a moment. He just stood, slightly shocked. Falco, that clown, a murderer? ... "Ok, thank you, Goranthir. I've got to ... thank you, again, Goranthir."

ooc: Back soon.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 05:28 PM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 06:04 PM)

Isidor didn't say anything for a moment. He just stood, slightly shocked. Falco, that clown, a murderer? ... "Ok, thank you, Goranthir. I've got to ... thank you, again, Goranthir."

Goranthir turned to Tris, sadly. "Maybe you should have done the talking," he said quietly.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 05:56 PM

Isidor sat down, his mind reeling. Falco, the guy who he had thought was a little bit off in the head, but not evil, was the Butcher of the Bay. He looked up at Goranthir. "Is your ship all right?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 05:57 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:15 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin
Goranthir turned to Tris, sadly. "Maybe you should have done the talking," he said quietly.

"No good way to put it," Tris said.

Tris had actually suggested not telling Isidor at all, just because he himself would rather never have found out. But that was stupid.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 06:03 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 06:43 PM)

Isidor sat down, his mind reeling. Falco, the guy who he had thought was a little bit off in the head, but not evil, was the Butcher of the Bay. He looked up at Goranthir. "Is your ship all right?"

"Three crewmen injured, one sail gone, but no fatalities," Goranthir replied. "I know how you must be feeling, Isidor. It's hard for me to reconcile my last image of him -- at the wedding, pretending to be a musician so he could get free food -- with what he's doing now. When he saw Tris, he ordered his men to kill him, no mistake ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 06:04 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 05:50 PM)

"He didn't kill me, though," Tris said. "Knocked me on the head and dropped me overboard... but didn't put a knife through my neck."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 06:08 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 06:50 PM)

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 06:51 PM)

"He didn't kill me, though," Tris said. "Knocked me on the head and dropped me overboard... but didn't put a knife through my neck."

Isidor frowned, and muttered something. "I'm sorry, Goran, about your ship, and sorry about him ordering to kill you Tris. If I could find him, I'd knock some sense into his thick head. This wasn't the Falco I knew. He was an owl before, but not a murderer."

Isidor shook his head again.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 06:13 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 05:55 PM)

"He's more than a murderer," Tris said. "I've seen one of the ships the Butcher attacked after it came aground. He's a monster."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 06:22 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 07:00 PM)

"He's more than a murderer," Tris said. "I've seen one of the ships the Butcher attacked after it came aground. He's a monster."

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 06:55 PM)

"Yes," Goranthir nodded solemnly to Tris's comment, and then said to Isidor. "But you have nothing to be sorry about, Isidor. There was nothing you could do ... We just thought you should hear from us, and not from gossip ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 06:26 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 07:00 PM)

"He's more than a murderer," Tris said. "I've seen one of the ships the Butcher attacked after it came aground. He's a monster."

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 07:09 PM)

Isidor nodded, and said, "Thank you, Goranthir, Tris. I really thought he was a good person. Guess I was wrong." He walked over to the bar, and asked the two men, "Would you like something to drink?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 06:29 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 07:13 PM)

Isidor nodded, and said, "Thank you, Goranthir, Tris. I really thought he was a good person. Guess I was wrong." He walked over to the bar, and asked the two men, "Would you like something to drink?"

"I could probably use one, but you know me, Isidor, if I have two glasses of wine, I'm under the table," Goranthir smiled. "And I should really tell Loranna, Dragon, and Kethiah what we've found out ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 06:36 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 06:16 PM)

"I'm right here," Dragon said, emerging from a back room with two of his officers. He sent an aide to the castle to inform Loranna of the meeting.

Allerleirauh, having taken her leave of the royal family of Mournhold and his Imperial Highness Enman, was looking for Goranthir. She went first to Tris's basement, then to the hold of the Akarvina, and only then learned that he was in Ald Raathim after all. Hair flying behind her, she ran down the hill to the Noggin, arriving a little breathless and flushed from the run, but happy to have stretched her legs after the long dinner with royalty.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 06:39 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 07:16 PM)

"I insist," Isidor said with a smile. He brought out another bottle of the Wayrest vintage, four cups, and set them out on the table.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 07:23 PM)

"Hail, Dragon, Allerleirauh!" Isidor reached under the bar, and pulled out two more glasses.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 06:41 PM

Loranna arrives a moment or two later, smiling to everyone, though her eyes betray curiosity.

"Hello everyone; what's going on?" she asks.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 06:46 PM

Goranthir embraced and kissed Allerleirauh, and smiled and nodded to Dragon and Kethiah.

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 07:28 PM)

Loranna arrives a moment or two later, smiling to everyone, though her eyes betray curiosity.

"Hello everyone; what's going on?" she asks.

Goranthir smiled to her as well, though his eyes were serious.

In a private room in the Nymph, he and Tris told them about the Butcher of the Bay.

(OOC -- Be back in about a half an hour)

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 06:59 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 06:33 PM)

Goranthir embraced and kissed Allerleirauh, and smiled and nodded to Dragon and Kethiah.
Goranthir smiled to her as well, though his eyes were serious.

In a private room in the Nymph, he and Tris told them about the Butcher of the Bay.

Dragon winced. Falco should have known better than to come so near Ald Raathim.

"That tears it then," Dragon said. "Now we hunt him down and kill him."

Allerleirauh, who had known, and been silent out of respect for Dragon, said nothing, but looked grim.

"Parraptons," Tris said. "Goranthir's clutch should be ready soon. I want a parrapton flight stationed on the Akarvina. We can find him."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 07:08 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 07:46 PM)

Loranna was very quiet. Her ashen skin was paler than normal, and her hands were unconsciously clenched.

... I'll kill him myself, was the first thought that ran through her mind, simple and pure, no white-hot flash of anger like she might have expected ... but it was still a foolish, outraged response, and a small part of her knew it.

When she does speak, her voice was low, subdued. "Parraptons could work, yes ..." She takes a deep breath. " ... Bloody idiot ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 07:13 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 07:46 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 07:55 PM)

After listening to the group talk, Isidor spoke.

"When you go, to find him ... may I come along? I feel like I've been betrayed ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 07:20 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 07:00 PM)

After listening to the group talk, Isidor spoke.

"When you go, to find him ... may I come along? I feel like I've been betrayed ..."

"You too?" Tris said. "I don't know why, it doesn't seem logical... I guess it's that I don't like feeling like a fool... I fought with Falco, sure, but I always believed he was one of us."

"He is one of us," Dragon said. "He's just one of us on the other side now."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 07:23 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 08:07 PM)

"I feel bretrayed too," Loranna admits. "Betrayed enough to not care if it's logical or not."

She looks over at Dragon, and closes her eyes for a moment. "I'd always hoped eventually, he'd ... well, I'd hoped we wouldn't have to kill him. Now though ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 07:32 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 07:10 PM)

"It's very simple," Dragon said. "We will have to kill him, or he will continue to prey on our people. But it's not necessary to hate someone to kill him. Falco's in this for his own reasons; he has his own goals. They happen to stand in the way of my goals. Stop acting like children about the Butcher's acts. That's the point of them, to make you act like children, and you're all tripping over yourselves to oblige. Falco's not a blooddrinker who loves the sight of gore, he just knows that the reports will scare away trade."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 07:49 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 08:19 PM)

Loranna's eyes flash for a second as she looks back at Dragon.

"I suppose he's not," she says. "All right then; we find him and kill him, simple as that. We'll put parraptons on the Akarvina like Tris suggests, and hunt him down."

"Any other suggestions what we can do besides that?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 08:05 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 08:19 PM)

"How do we know for certain that's his goal?" Goranthir said. "He was happy to kill Tris, or at least order his men to do it. Perhaps he's gone insane. Not that I suppose his motivation matters ... We will have to kill him, or at very least stop him, but you have to understand, Dragon, we fought with him. You can give us one moment to be appalled immediately after receiving the news before calling us all children."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 08:19 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 07:52 PM)

"I don't know a better word," Dragon said. "Perhaps you know a word which specifically refers to someone who allows his enemy to win at mind games. I make no judgements on anyone's sanity, but it's not hard to tell that Falco sends his pretty ships ashore so that we can see them. The purpose is to make us shocked and horrified. I respectfully decline to be so shocked, and I suggest you do the same."

"Don't bicker," Allerleirauh said. "It doesn't matter what his motivations are, and I agree with Dragon that his goals are plain. He intends to stop shipping by acts of terror. It would also seem, because these acts have been focused on Ald Raathim, that he bears a grudge against us in particular. It's time to put an end to him."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 08:19 PM

Kethiah hadn't said anything, though she knew Falco too.

"It should not be difficult to track him," she said. "He makes a production of himself. He has struck all over the Inner Sea though, and it will be difficult to get to him quickly by the time we receive intelligence that he has struck."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 08:20 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 08:07 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 08:10 PM)

Isidor swallowed hard at the thought of killing Falco. He wished it had never come to this.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 08:19 PM)

Isidor nodded at Dragon's words, and said, "I don't understand why he'd want to scare away trade, though ..."

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 08:36 PM)

"None from me," Isidor said. "Should we tell his father?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 08:25 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 09:06 PM)

"Perhaps we should consider laying a trap for him, then," Loranna suggests, frowning a bit as Isidor mentions Falco's father.

"I'm not sure if that's a good or bad idea, Isidor; didn't Falco and his father have a falling out?" she asks.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 08:28 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:06 PM)

"I'm 17," Goranthir smiled. "When I'm your age, perhaps I'll be able to switch my emotions off so easily."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:06 PM)

"Don't bicker," Allerleirauh said. "It doesn't matter what his motivations are, and I agree with Dragon that his goals are plain. He intends to stop shipping by acts of terror. It would also seem, because these acts have been focused on Ald Raathim, that he bears a grudge against us in particular. It's time to put an end to him."

Goranthir looked down at Allie's rebuke, and then nodded. "Is there a target he'd be unable to resist, perhaps? Maybe we could set up a trap for him, like Loranna suggests. A huge shipment of something ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 08:31 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 08:07 PM)

Isidor swallowed hard at the thought of killing Falco. He wished it had never come to this.
Isidor nodded at Dragon's words, and said, "I don't understand why he'd want to scare away trade, though ..."
"None from me," Isidor said. "Should we tell his father?"

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 08:12 PM)

Allerleirauh glanced at Dragon, and at Goranthir. No one was more touchy about being called a child than a very young man.

"Let me tell his father," Dragon said. "Isidor - you know why."

"No one has commented on my parraptons," Tris said. "Why do we need a trap? Just fly over and set him on fire. Loranna - with parraptons flying off the deck of a ship, we can scour the whole Inner Sea in no time."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 08:39 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:18 PM)

"I didn't say anything?" Loranna says, mentally kicking herself. "Sorry; that does sound like it could work. Scour the Inner Sea for him, drop fire on his ship, return and bring in the Akarvana at your leisure."

She looks to the others for any additional comments. At least it was getting easier to tell herself to worry less about her feelings of betrayal and more on stopping the threat.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 08:45 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 09:26 PM)

"I agree," Goranthir said. "I'll get it together right away ... Falco must have some way of concealing himself -- the King hasn't been able to track him down so far -- so we may have to go to the trap suggestion ... but it won't be for lack of trying."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 08:52 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 09:12 PM)

"They did, yes. But, if Tyradil was about to be killed for being a murderer, I think I'd want to know." Isidor said, with a frown.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:18 PM)

Isidor nodded soberly, and shook his head.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 08:54 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 08:32 PM)

"I have his movements charted," Dragon said to Goranthir. "I can make some very good guesses as to where he'll be, and what his next target will be. Then you have the Akarvina waiting for him. We'll get lucky, sooner rather than later."

"Right," Allerleirauh said. "If that's all?"

She looked at Goranthir meaningfully. They needed to talk.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 08:58 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:41 PM)

"Sure," said Goranthir to Dragon. "I'll have the Akarvina ready to sail at a moment's notice, and talk to the Queen to make sure her children can sail along too ..."

He looked to Allerleirauh and smiled. It was good to see her again after the adventure at sea.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 09:03 PM

After the conversation had ended, Isidor walked over to Kethiah. "You won't mind if I go after Falco for a little bit, will you? I don't want to put too much pressure on you, with the kids, the tavern, your other job ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:05 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 08:45 PM)

Tris was trying to read Allerleirauh's face. It didn't look like a meeting to which he was invited.

"I just came from Mournhold," Allerleirauh said, taking Goranthir into a back room and kissing him. "There's news."

She told him, briefly, about Enman's visit, his offer of troops, her agreement to exchange information with Barenziah, and last of all, Helseth's suggestion that Goranthir might make a good undercover operative in Vvardenfell.

"It's dangerous," she said. "But really no more dangerous than what you do now, if you're careful. I told Helseth you wouldn't want to leave the Akarvina. But if you decide to go, I won't be far away."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 09:09 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 25 2005, 09:50 PM)

"No, I don't mind," she smiled, a little sadly. "I would have been surprised if you didn't want to get involved. He was your friend."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:10 PM

Tris took Loranna's arm. "Would you like an escort back to the castle, my lady? Or perhaps a few drinks?"

He smiled. They hadn't seen much of each other since his father's death. He'd been too busy.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 09:12 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:52 PM)

"I feel sorry for Dinara," Goranthir said. "It doesn't sound like her brother will be free anytime soon ... But of course I'll go, that's not even a question. What do I do when I see one of these false Tribunal chaps? How does one prove that someone isn't, say, Almalexia?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 25 2005, 09:12 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 09:56 PM)

"No, I don't mind," she smiled, a little sadly. "I would have been surprised if you didn't want to get involved. He was your friend."

Isidor smiled at her for a moment, before kissing her very passionately on the lips, for a few moments. "I love you." He said, after pulling away from her.

ooc: Out of here for tonight.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 09:13 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 09:57 PM)

Tris took Loranna's arm. "Would you like an escort back to the castle, my lady? Or perhaps a few drinks?"

He smiled. They hadn't seen much of each other since his father's death. He'd been too busy.

Loranna smiles, her face lightening in Tris's presence. "A mead right now sounds good; I spend more time in the castle than I like anyway. Good to get out once in a while."

"I like what you've done with your hair," she adds. "Makes you look distinguished and pretty as ever. How is your sister doing? And Wayrest in general?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:17 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 08:59 PM)

"I don't know," Allerleirauh said. "I do know the real Almalexia would have had you back in her chambers with your pants down in three heartbeats. That's something she and I have in common. What's Vehk call it? Ever-changing female need?"

She smiled. "They aren't gods. They are someone or something. I need to know what. Mass hallucination? Illusionary magic? Three impersonators with magical skills? No matter what they are, there will be evidence of it. You'll have access to the information Barenziah's people have collected before you go. And I'm going myself, by myself."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:21 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 09:00 PM)

"Iolanthe leads a difficult life," Tris said. "For example, right now I am supposed to be dressing for a dinner dance, given by someone I probably should try not to offend. She was angry already that I wouldn't find a suitable female escort and insisted on going with her. Now I'm going to blow her off completely. Such is the life of my sister. But she gets to play with money, which makes up for the many and manifest disappointments I visit on her."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 09:23 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:04 PM)

"Just to see what happens to me and my pants?" Goranthir grinned. "All right, I guess the plan is just to see what it is we're dealing with ... This takes precedence over finding Falco. I can send the Akarvina off without me. They sailed to Summerset without me, they can go up and down the coast without me too ... Though they'll need to have riders on the parraptons instead of just me squawking at them."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 25 2005, 09:23 PM

Hla Oad

The Red Falcon Pulled into port. The people of the small town were used to seeing this ship pull into harbor every few weeks. So this was no surprise In fact, a few of the older members of the town could even recall a certain teen-age argonian who used to 'operate' here.

The crew was dead-tired after nearly 24 hours of full-speed no sleep sailing. Unfortunately for them, their captain wasn't too keen on giving them any form of respite. Once docked, the ship quickly unloaded several crates of Telvanni Bug Musk they had taken in their last raid, along with a few mediocre enchanted items. All-in-all it was a decent haul, but nothing spectacular.

Quickly they set about replacing the sails, wich were now full of holes, resupplying their stocks of food and water, along with hiring a few mercenaries to replace crewmen lost. Falco knew it to be a busy couple of days ahead of him.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:27 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 25 2005, 09:10 PM)

"They would need riders in any case," Allerleirauh said. "Not to be limited by the range of your voice. Tris has been itching to train his own squad of parrapton riders, in case you didn't notice. I think he misses flying, it's what he did in the last war. So he gives you a birthday present which is really a present to himself, typical."

She ran her hands over his close-cropped head. "Do you still keep a room upstairs for yourself, here?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 09:29 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:08 PM)

Loranna raises her eyebrows and shakes her head. "You remain as terrible as ever," she says, trying to figure out how she takes that; despite having only met Iolanthe for a brief few minutes months ago, she had come to like the woman, if only because she was Tris's sister and didn't seem out to kill him like some of his other family members.

She sighs. "And how are you enjoying the life of a wealthy count?" she asks. "You certainly look more vibrant than ever; I don't think I've ever seen you in this radiant of shape."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 25 2005, 09:32 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:14 PM)

"I thought you'd never ask," Goranthir laughed. "I've been thinking about it since you mentioned the word 'undercover.'"

(OOC -- Outta here, and FADE OUT)

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 09:39 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 09:16 PM)

"I'm making arrangements to get Ald Raathim on the Imperial Games circuit," Tris said. "It isn't easy, a lot of Imperial politics involved, people are saying it's too close to Blacklight, and of course there's a war on. But I defy the war, I intend to make it happen anyway. So I'm in training. Already run in local events, making my name familiar to Wayrest's team. I'll be hitting the circuit games again soon, if all goes well."

He smiled. "Iolanthe wants to see me married. I believe the quote was, If you die without an heir that [censored] gets everything. So I suppose you could say I'm in training for that too.

"And how are you? Married life seems to be treating you well."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 09:48 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:26 PM)

Loranna smiles and pats her belly. "Slyvos and I are expecting," she tells Tris, her expression becoming more excited. "I'm about a month into it now - everything seems to be going normally this time. I've been planning the baby's rooms and other needs early, along with everything else."

"We should talk more about getting Ald Raathim on the Imperial circuit; I've been trying to get more cosmopolitan interests here whenever I can," she says. "Like you said though, it's not easy given the war."

"And as for you being married ..." Loranna pauses and considers deeply for a moment. "I've got to think more on this; we can't have you just marrying any old stuffy matron's daughter now. I'm thinking dark hair ..."

She laughs, but her expression turns more serious. " ... So things haven't improved with Oro, I take it," she asks.

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 10:00 PM

After a long slog southeast from Gideon, the triad and guide found themselves outside a fortress of bone.

Shaka surveyed the eldritch walls silently. Aged to shades of ivory, the bones were said to have come from foes vanquished long ago.

Walks-Over-Reeds would wait for them for a set time before returning to Gideon.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 25 2005, 10:21 PM

A looked at the walls, "Creepy..."

She took a moment to cast Sanctuary, and then cast it on Telera and Shaka. "No sense in letting them hit us first. Well, enough gawking, might as well go in and get this done."

She started heading through the entrance, through doors, shivering as she entered.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 10:28 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 07:47 PM)

Telera looked at the bones frowning. An abominable construction, macabre in its execution. May the souls of those whose corpses had been profaned in its manufacture rest in peace, though that was doubtful, there being a lich in residence. Filthy necromantic magics, made her skin crawl.

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 25 2005, 08:08 PM)

Telera followed Anya in and walked immediately to the one door in the entrance chamber across from the main entrance, it was locked. Pulling out her picks she set to work and was swiftly rewarded with the sound of the tumblers falling into place. The lock had either decayed from age or was meant more to give pause to the wary rather than keep out those determined to come in.

“It’s unlocked now,” she said, her voice sounding unnaturally loud in the fortress of bone.

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 10:34 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 11:15 PM)

Shaka cautiously opened it, to reveal a corridor running to left and right, and seeming to begin a downward slant. He motioned for silence; which way to try?

He gestured for Anya and Telera to take the point, with their greater stealth. Shaka shrugged and pointed at random to the left, looking at the women to see if they agreed.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 10:39 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 09:35 PM)

Tris smiled a funny little smile. "A month into it? You're sure it's not just a fluke?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 10:46 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 11:26 PM)

Tris smiled a funny little smile. "A month into it? You're sure it's not just a fluke?"

Loranna smiles a quiet little smile, one which notes that Tris hasn't yet answered her question. "I'm sure," she says, "I asked at the House, and the diviners assure me, it's a baby this time. That and ... well, let's just say prior experience is also confirming it."

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 10:49 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 08:21 PM)

Telera nodded, glancing down the right path briefly, both of them turned inwards at the ends, one path was as good as the other. She drew her spear and broke the silence briefly with the sound of a chameleon spell, its usually quiet sound upon activation rang in her ears causing her to pause. Seeing the others activate concealing spells as well she moved down the corridor along the wall.

Around the corner she made out the distinctive footfalls of reanimated bone. She edged around the corner to get a view of the skeleton. There was one alone with a fairly standard armament, obviously on a patrol of some kind. She indicated for Anya to take the lead and strike the skeleton before it could notice them, or tried to, being that she couldn’t see Anya at the moment she didn’t know whether Anya needed the signal.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 10:50 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 10:33 PM)

"Well, then, come here," Tris said, putting his arms around her. "Congratulations, must be nice to remember getting pregnant this time!"

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 25 2005, 10:58 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 09:36 PM)

Anya tapped Telera's shoulder, letting her know she was moving foward.

Anya crept foward carefully, thinking about what to use. She discounted her spear, too unweidly for quick kills. Throwing weapons would be harder to aim from a distince with their slight forms. She smiled and drew her dagger.

When she was right behind the skeleton, she raised the dagger above her head, and brought it down hard on it's skull, shattering bone, she quickly drew another, a throwing dagger enchanted with paralysis, and jammed it between the shoulder blades. One more strike to the head ended it's unlife.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 25 2005, 10:58 PM

Hla Oad

Falco entered his cabin. It had been a long day and he still had a bit of work to do. Sitting there, reading a copy of The Real Barenziah was a Dunmer boy of thirteen.

"Good Evening, Ondave."

The Dunmer's red eyes shot up to the argonian. The boy regarded him coldly, "Evening father."

The one-eyed rogue returned this with a warm smile. "Time for swordsmanship and unarmored combat training. Then is your lesson on moral philosophy."

"Alright, but I still don't get why I need to know that philosophy crap."

"Because if I teach you to master combat, and don't teach you what you're to fight for, then you will waste your talents."

"Your logic is undeniable" he replied sarcasticly. The young Dunmer drew his own blade, a steel broadsword. The two combatants left for the deck of the ship, where they engaged in swordsmanship lessons for several hours, before it became too dark to see. They headed inside for their nightly lesson on moral philosophy. (But more details on that later)

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 11:00 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 11:37 PM)

"Well, then, come here," Tris said, putting his arms around her. "Congratulations, must be nice to remember getting pregnant this time!"

Loranna returns Tris's embrace. "You can only imagine," she laughs, letting Tris go. "And you should have seen the look on Slyvos's face when I told him ..."

Loranna sighs, still smiling. "I'm thrilled and terrified all over again, though at least this time there isn't a prophecy hanging over my head and an extra passanger to deal with. Hun, you can't imagine what it's like this time around ..."

"Ah, I'm babbling again," she says, "don't mind me. I just feel ..." She pauses for a moment, then shrugs. " ... a whole lot all at once. As usual, around here."

Posted by: syronj Oct 25 2005, 11:04 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 25 2005, 11:45 PM)

Shaka nodded as the three stealthed warriors continued, but knew better than to get overconfident. He had seen more minions in run-of-the-mill tombs on Vvardenfell. Either Manavrio was powerful and overconfident, or there were traps ahead.

He motioned for a halt when he spotted a second skeleton patrolling a side corridor. Instead of wasting more time on low-level minions, he motioned for them to continue on the leftward path.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 11:04 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 10:47 PM)

"My mother always used to say it's best not to tell anyone until they can see with their own eyes," Tris said. "Saves painful explanations later if something should go wrong. But more than that, if you tell everyone you're pregnant in the first month, at the end of 6 months, all your friends are sick of waiting and start asking, Are you still pregnant? Haven't you had that baby yet?"

He laughed.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 11:14 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 11:51 PM)

"I'll keep that in mind the next time," Loranna says with quiet dignity, even as she punches Tris playfully in the shoulder for making such a silly joke.

"Haaahh, so much to do, never seems to be enough time to do it in even when you work non-stop," she says. "Wars to fight, alliances to make, families to raise ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 11:22 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 11:01 PM)

"You asked about Oro," Tris said. "He's at school in the Chantry of Akatosh, in training for the priesthood. Couldn't have him in the house, I was honestly afraid he'd try to kill me in my sleep."

Tris shook his head. "My mother came back from the grave to tell me to take care of my younger brother, and what a mess I've made of it. But what am I supposed to do? I can't even have a conversation with him, he starts up the moment I walk into a room. Iolanthe and I were laughing together and he came in to ask if we were having sex, only he used a word ten year old boys shouldn't even know."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 11:33 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 12:09 AM)

Loranna's expression becomes serious. "I wish I knew what to tell you, Tris," she says soberly. "If I were in that position I imagine I'd go a little mad myself. Maybe all he needs is time, time to grow up a little, time to get used to the idea of you being in the family again ... or maybe we need a miracle, I don't know."

She sighs. "Watch out for him as best you can; try to let him see that you do love him - but remember my track record for giving useful advice, hun. But he's still your brother ..."

Thoughts of Falco begin to trouble Loranna again; she pushes them back. Falco and Oro were not alike no matter how much the betrayed part of her insists that both are biting the hands of those who would take them in.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 25 2005, 11:35 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 25 2005, 08:51 PM)

Telera halted; another skeleton was visible down the fork to the right. She agreed with Shaka and, keeping an eye on the passage the skeleton was patrolling to make sure it didn’t see them. She stole past and headed down corridor to where it turned left.

Around the corner there was a stairwell, but across from the stairwell a slit in the wall was barely visible. Telera looked back at Shaka and Anya questioningly, pointing to the slit and shrugging. Casting a levitation spell to avoid touching anything around the trap she peered into the slit. She half-saw metal glinting inside but was unable to make out details.

Returning to the corridor, she proceeded to cast levitation spells at Anya and Shaka indicating for them to follow her quickly up the stair and avoid touching the walls or steps on the way in order to avoid finding out what was contained across from the stair.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 11:38 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 11:20 PM)

"Stop it," Tris said, instantly reading her expression. "I'm doing it too. When I saw him on that ship, I just stood there, it's a miracle I wasn't killed."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 25 2005, 11:44 PM

Anya smiled as the past the trap, nearly smirking. Valiant effort, but these sort of traps weren't particularly effective against her type.

Anya touched down lightly, and continued down the hall. She kept walking, until a glint caught her eye, causing her to pause. She looked down, and saw another pressure plate beneath her feet.

Wondering why the plate was in such obvious view, she cast a small light spell, and saw the gleam of the wire at her chest.

Moving back, she motioned Telera foward and whispered, "Ideas?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 11:45 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 12:25 AM)

"Stop it," Tris said, instantly reading her expression. "I'm doing it too. When I saw him on that ship, I just stood there, it's a miracle I wasn't killed."

Loranna grunts, her expression twisting into a most unhappy counterance. "The first thing that went through my mind when Goran made the announcement was, I'm going to kill him," she confesses. "I was being childish probably, but not fro mshock at what he did - more from rage."

She stops, relaxing her face. "Eh, I learned what to do in times like this; accept what needs to be done and move on," she says. " ... But I still remember what he said the night before I banished him, how he had found people who he came to trust and how he loved us. And I still feel like he's been slapping me in the face ever since I met him."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 25 2005, 11:52 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 11:32 PM)

"Well, he has been," Tris said. "I know all about that, I do that myself, slap people to see if they still love me afterwards. What keeps tickling my conscience is what his father said at that banquet, that Falco should have been killed, it was more than he deserved. What kind of father says that about the son who rescued him from slavery? But, then, you know- my own father wasn't the best in the world, and I never used Dunmer intestines as decorating material..."

He stopped in the middle of a sentence, wondering whether he was being insensitive. After all, Loranna hadn't had a great father either. And her death count was many times higher than Falco's, in circumstances even less sane.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 25 2005, 11:58 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 12:39 AM)

Loranna looks at Tris, her expression difficult to read.

" ... I meant it when I said, I'd been hoping we wouldn't have to kill him," she says finally. "The whole idea of killing one of our own still doesn't sit right in my heart. I'm not sure if this is a sign of me not being quite mature enough yet or a reminder that even the Accursed Mother and her lich lover found redemption. Or both, for that matter."

Her expression softens, her tearstreaks giving her face a sad ambiance. "And yes, that's a pretty cold thing for a father to say to his son, no matter what the circumstances. Ultimately, we each choose our own path though; Falco's chosen his ... but who knows; like I said, even I finally came around ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 26 2005, 12:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 11:45 PM)

"Damn it," Tris said. "He's like a rotten little child. I know this trick, I used to use it myself. Get scolded for bad grades, so you go out and get drunk and spend the night on the street. Well, I wouldn't have done that if you hadn't driven me away... to Oblivion with Falco. Were you supposed to let him stick around and steal from us, just so he wouldn't become a cut throat murderer?"

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:02 AM

pie

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 12:10 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 12:49 AM)

"That's suggesting I've become Falco's mother," Loranna says, her lips curling into a bit of a smirk. "And that thought terrifies me more than the idea of having triplet Sen-Yeddas with my father's disposition."

Then, she sighs. "Like I said, we each choose our own path. None of us forced Falco to become a butcher. And I think I'm finally at the point where I'm ready to say, let him do what he wants, and don't mind us when we go and stuff his tail down his throat. I've enough things to worry about, my own child among them."

Still, she offers one last prayer for Falco to come to his senses before it's too late, before dropping the subject. "So what else is new in Wayrest?"

Posted by: Teleran Oct 26 2005, 12:23 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 25 2005, 09:31 PM)

Telera flicked her hand forward and two streaks of silver shot forward into the winding passage, one below and one above the wire. They stopped around the wire and slashed upwards and downwards respectively. As the wire tightened under the strain a heavy axe swung across the hall, catching the daggers as it passed.

There was a hollow click after it disappeared into the other wall. The axe didn’t return; the trap had reset itself for the next passersby to try their luck. Fortunately for anyone passing down this particular hall the wire no longer waited to catch them. “So, anyone want to test the plate that is not like the others or shall we just assume it’s not a good thing?”

Not waiting for an answer, Telera cast a jump/slowfall combination on herself, and the others as they required it, to easily carry them over the suspicious plate. After landing on the other side, she drank a restore magicka potion to bring her rapidly depleting magicka supply back to normal.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:25 AM

Across the room, Loranna saw a familiar figure come into the Nymph. Clad in tight breeches and a loose blouse the same tawny color as her lightly furred skin, Ya’Tirrje, also called Goldcat, winked at Loranna.

Kethiah and the Khajiit smuggler went upstairs, but the two Khajiit males the Goldcat travelled with took a table and ordered drinks.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 26 2005, 12:28 AM

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

"Who's that?" Tris asked Loranna, discreetly watching. He wasn't a cat fancier as a rule - but the matched set of three beauties was giving him ideas.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 26 2005, 12:30 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 25 2005, 11:10 PM)

Not waiting for an answer, Telera cast a jump/slowfall combination on herself, and the others as they required it, to easily carry them over the suspicious plate. After landing on the other side, she drank a restore magicka potion to bring her rapidly depleting magicka supply back to normal.

Anya touched down, thanking Telera. She started down the hallway, not wanting to spend more time than nessecary there.

The moment she saw them, several area effect enfeebling throwing stars flew from her hands. Three skeletons and a bonewolf charged after the group as Anya readied several more throwing stars before they closed the distance.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 12:32 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 01:15 AM)

"Who's that?" Tris asked Loranna, discretely watching. He wasn't a cat fancier as a rule - but the matched set of three beauties was giving him ideas.

"That would be an acquaintance of Kethiah's I had the pleasure of meeting the other day," Loranna says to Tris quietly, returning Goldcat's wink with a small smile. "She goes by the name of Goldcat; I'm afraid I never did catch the names of her associates. Interesting lady, in the shipping business, or one side of it at least. Wonder what's going on."

From the look in Loranna's eyes, she was wondering rather strongly.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:34 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 10:19 PM)

Mimlea, one of the barmaids, brought two drinks over to Tris's and Loranna's table.

"From the, ah," she searched for the word. "Furry gentlemen."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 26 2005, 12:42 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 26 2005, 12:21 AM)

Mimlea, one of the barmaids, brought two drinks over to Tris's and Loranna's table.

"From the, ah," she searched for the word. "Furry gentlemen."

Tris had heard of someone named Goldcat before, from his business associates. He doubted that it was the same person, however; the Goldcat he had heard of was male.

He picked up his drink, raised it in a toast to the two 'furry gentlemen', and smiled.

"Come on, my lady, I sense an invitation," he said, standing up to move to their table.

"Tris Gaerington of Wayrest," he said, not bothering with his title. "Mind company?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 12:44 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 01:29 AM)

"How can one turn down such an offer?" Loranna asks with a smile, likewise toasting the Khajiit men and following after Tris.

"Hello again dears; welcome bck to Ald Raathim," she says.

Posted by: Teleran Oct 26 2005, 12:46 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 25 2005, 10:17 PM)

Taking advantage of the delay the stars caused the skeletons as their enchantments activated, Telera moved in, striking the bone wolf with the blunt end of the spear to maneuver it into a more open position, while drawing a dagger to slip between the now exposed joint between the skull and vertebrae to lever them apart.

‘Skeletons and more skeletons! When will we get to something with some flesh on it, preferably blood that flows too, but I don’t see that happening since you dragged us into a lich’s den. Freaking moron, get us back to the war already.’

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:48 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:29 PM)

Tris had heard of someone named Goldcat before, from his business associates. He doubted that it was the same person, however; the Goldcat he had heard of was male.

He picked up his drink, raised it in a toast to the two furry gentlemen, and smiled.

"Come on, my lady, I sense an invitation," he said, standing up to move to their table.

"Tris Gaerington of Wayrest," he said, not bothering with his title. "Mind company?"

"Actually, I'm sorry," said the first of the Khajiit, whose fur was lightly silver in patterns that ran down his neck and up his arms. "We're expecting someone. Pretty lad and lass we saw when we came in."

His companion, less distinctly feline than the other, with brown woad tattoos over his face, laughed. "I think this is they, mate."

"By Rajhin, I think you're right," the first cat drew in a breath of air as he looked Tris and Loranna over. "Sorry, Tris Gaerington of Wayrest, you look different in this candlelight. But no matter, have a seat. I'm sure you have a fine personality."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 26 2005, 12:53 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 26 2005, 12:35 AM)

Tris laughed, shaking his head. Surely the most backhanded compliment he'd received in a while; pretty but not by candlelight.

"Actually I'm used to getting by on looks, so it seems my luck's run out," he said. "I'm afraid I didn't catch your names."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 26 2005, 12:55 AM

Anya watched as Shaka engaged a skeleton. Accounting for the last two, she charge the closest one, which had several of her stars lodged in it's bones.

Taking her spear, she jammed it upwards, trapping the skeleton to the ceiling between the two blades of the dwemet halberd tip. Twisting sharply, she shatter the neck, causing it to finally collapse.

She turned her attention to the last one, which was sorely outnumbered by now. Though she doubted this mattered to it at all.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 12:56 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 26 2005, 01:40 AM)

Loranna keeps herself from chuckling too much, though she gives Tris a look that says 'I think we've met our match'.

"I can vouch for him having a personality that looks unique in any light," she says as she takes a seat.

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:56 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:40 PM)

"If your luck's run out, you're in the right company," said the first silver-furred Khajiit, holding out his hand. "They call me Alas. And that there is me mate Alack."

"First time on this end of the place," Alack said. "It's nice. A little quiet for my taste though. Usually prefer the company at the Noggin, but never seen the likes of you two in there, so it's ups and downs."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 12:58 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 10:43 PM)

"Now, I have seen you before," said Alas. "At the fight, am I right? Your man win, or your luck run out too?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 01:06 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 26 2005, 01:45 AM)

"Now, I have seen you before," said Alas. "At the fight, am I right? Your man win, or your luck run out too?"

"Yes, you did," Loranna says, "and my luck was doing quite well that day actually, thanks."

Alas and Alack ... Loranna wonders if the names were Goldcat's idea or not.

"How fare you two since we last met?" she asks.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 26 2005, 01:08 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 26 2005, 12:43 AM)

"Oh, I've been spotted at the other end before," Tris said. "More privacy here though."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 01:11 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 10:53 PM)

"Yes, you did," Loranna says, "and my luck was doing quite well that day actyally, thanks."

Alas and Alack ... Loranna wonders if the names were Goldcat's idea or not.

"How fare you two since we last met?" she asks.

"I fare fairly," Alas said. "How 'bout you, mate?"

"Only barely fairly," Alack replied. "I don't know if you can tell, because we're being so bleeding charming, but we ain't been in polite society in some time. Unless you count the society at shipyards and arenas, which for a fellow of my delicate nature ain't so hot. So, what is your name, lassy?"

Posted by: Teleran Oct 26 2005, 01:15 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 25 2005, 10:42 PM)

Smashing the body of the bone wolf to pieces to make sure it didn’t keep moving, even without a head. She turned to face the only remaining skeleton; it didn’t last long against the three of them.

Muttering about evil liches who stole puppies for evil uses, Telera moved quickly past the bones that had been reanimated just a short while ago. Telera came to the three doors shortly before the others and stopped, “So, do we want to take one of the doors or continue down this passage and see where it leads?”

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 01:19 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 25 2005, 10:55 PM)

"Oh, I've been spotted at the other end before," Tris said. "More privacy here though."

Alas smiled. He had beautiful teeth. "Well, if it's privacy your after, Tris Gaerington of Wayrest, we could always --"

"Nuh uh," Alack interrupted him.

"Not enough flirty flirty yet?" Alas sighed. "I never know."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 26 2005, 01:20 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Oct 26 2005, 01:58 AM)

Loranna holds out her hand. "Dres Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raathim," she says. "A pleasure."

Posted by: S'reddit Oct 26 2005, 01:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 25 2005, 11:07 PM)

Loranna holds out her hand. "Dres Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raathim," she says. "A pleasure."

The two Khajiit looked at her, and then one another.

"Naw," said Alack, his smile uncertain. "You're havin' us on ..."

"Please tell us you're havin' us on," added Alas more seriously.

Posted by: Hungry Donner Oct 26 2005, 01:24 AM

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