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

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 05:31 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 ofmuch 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 is on the Akarvana with several of her compnions, preparing to stop the Butcher of the Inner Sea once and for all in the harbor of Hla Oud.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 27 2005, 05:37 PM

Summary

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, has gone undercover in Vvardenfell to try to find out what he can about the entities there who seem to be Almalexia, Sotha Sil, and Vivec.

Kethiah, ex-assassin and co-proprietor of the Nymph and Noggin tavern in Ald Raathim, has just had an unsettling but peaceful encounter with Herwyn Brand, the man who tried to kill her a while back. She is back to work now, running the tavern, helping the children of Ald Raathim learn self-defense, and secretly acting as Loranna's Spymaster.

And OOC -- Sheogorath / S'Reddit is out of town until early next week, so these characters aren't going to be seen much, though one may assume, of course, that Kethiah is always around the Nymph and Noggin. Just because I'm off-line doesn't mean you won't be able to get a drink or a room.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 05:38 PM

ooc summaries:

Tris Gaerington is on the back of a parrapton on the deck of the Akarvina, waiting for the ship's mages to fire their first volley before launching.

Dragon is also on the Akarvina, keeping an eye on Eats-with-Claws.

Allerleirauh, having said goodbye to Goranthir, is in the Void, making sure he arrived safely. When she has reassured herself, she will return to Solunastra to spend time with her daughter.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 05:40 PM

Falco Redflash, male argonian rogue, (AKA the butcher of the Inner sea) is currently in the town of Hla Oad. The Townspeople have all been 'escoted' to the cavern below fat leg's drop off where they awaitr the imminent battle to be over. The crew of the Red Falcon is evenly dispersed throughout the town's buildings, awaiting the Akarvina to dock before ambushing them.

Eeats-With-Claws, male argonian warrior, is on the Akarvina, preparing to fight ,and if need be: kill his son.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 05:48 PM

ooc: Isidor, male nord, is with the group on the Akarvina.

Tyradil and Tilitalia, Isidor's children, are doing homework. Tyradil is going to talk to Davala, his sort of girlfriend, later.

Tsei's asleep, in the Nymph and Noggin.

Posted by: Arsene Oct 27 2005, 05:49 PM

QUOTE

A young dunmer barmaid replied, with a smile, "Well, there are some openings here, for a cook, and other things. There's also an army in Ald Raathim, that always needs more soliders."

"I'm not one for fighting but I have catered for myself and others on occasion, would you take a Khajiit cook?"

"I promise not to raid the moonsugar stash." He joked and smiled at the lass.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 05:51 PM

As the Akarvina came within range Erlycn and his mages watched from the docks, the only members of the crew out in plain sight. One apprentice looked to his master, "Err...sir?"

"Yes?"

"Well what happenes if we miss their ship?"

"We won't."

"But on the off chance we do mi-"

"We won't!"

"Alright sir."

The Altmer mage, and his three surviving apprentices prepared their spells of fire and let them loose on the Akarvina. If this came to a chase The captain wanted to be easily able to outrun the other ship.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 05:52 PM

QUOTE(Arsene @ Oct 27 2005, 06:36 PM)

"I'm not one for fighting but I have catered for myself and others on occasion, would you take a Khajiit cook?"

"I promise not to raid the moonsugar stash." He joked and smiled at the lass.

The barmaid smiled, and said, "Well, you'd have to talk to one of the owners about hiring you. That'd be Kethiah, or Isidor. Isidor's not here right now, but Kethiah might be around."

Posted by: Axe the Brave Oct 27 2005, 05:53 PM

Summary

Trason has just quit his current job as the cook at the Nymph and Noggin, in order to join the army and move through the ranks.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 27 2005, 05:55 PM

OOC SUMMARY: Vaany-boy is on his way to Ald Raathim, on official Temple business.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 06:02 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 06:38 PM)

On board the Akarvina, Loranna and the ship's mages see the balls of fire form on the deck of Red Falcon, and beging streaking toward their vessel. Just as they had been waiting for.

"Now!" Loranna tracks the fireballs and unleashes the power of her bracelet, sending several small frostballs to intercept the incoming fireballs. The other mages likewise fire their intercepting spells, with the pracitced speed and grace of ones used to this sort of magic combat. Fire, frost, and lightning speed over the waters, to collide in a spectacular display of magic ...

... well away from the Arkavina and her sails; some of the backlash even threatens to lick the Red Falcon.

Posted by: Arsene Oct 27 2005, 06:04 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 12:39 AM)

The barmaid smiled, and said, "Well, you'd have to talk to one of the owners about hiring you. That'd be Kethiah, or Isidor. Isidor's not here right now, but Kethiah might be around."

"What kind of alcoholic concoctions do you have in this fine establishment?"

OOC: Hes just having some fun, don't worry folks.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 06:06 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 05:49 PM)

As the fireballs left the Red Falcon, Tris and the flight of parrapton riders launched from the deck, streaking into the sky, well out of arrow range. That was the nice thing about gravity; it worked no matter how high up you went.

From high in the air, they rained fire on the sails and deck of the helpless Red Falcon.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 06:06 PM

Erlycn stared calmly at the dazzling display in front of him. "impressive" He then turned back to town, "Firing any more spells would do naught but waste magicka. Come, let us go back into town and prepare for the ambush, they should be reaching the docks within the next few minutes."

The 4 mages dissapeared from the sight of the Akarvina and headed back into the small village's buildings.

Then the parrapatons came. Erlycn looked up, as did his mages. Though their master was powerful, the apprentices did not yet have the precision to hit spells with other spells as Loranna had done from the Akarvina. Instead they began focusing their spells (shock ones to be more specific) on the parrapatons, hoping to knock a few out of the air.

Posted by: Axe the Brave Oct 27 2005, 06:16 PM

Trason slowly walked his way to the castle. He was nervous, thinking if what he had done was the right thing to do. It was a little late to try and go back now, it was his duty to fight.

Before long he was approached by a recruiter at the castle gates.

"Aye, I take it you like to fight" The recruiter said pointing to his sword in his sheath.

"I suppose so, where do I sign?" Trason asked.

"Right here... Yes, now you are officialy a member of the Ald Raathim military. You will be tested to see where you stand in the rankings with various tasks and perhaps a few duels, but I doubt that. We need as much people as we can to fight, we dont want them dying in an arena. Go to the Military Tower and give the man in the front room this sheet of paper." He said as he gave him a small piece of parchment.

"Now, while your there, you will receive armor, and food and shelter. You will also be debriefed on what is going on incase you already know. You will also be trained by some of are higher rankings." The recruiter said.

"Haha... Trained? I'm afraid that wont be needed." Trason said.

"It must."

Trason paused for a moment. He was a very confident individual, and became stubborn when he worked with partners.

"Whatever, aslong as they dont get in my way. If anything, I'll be teaching them." Trason boasted.

"That's what they all say... You'll meet your match, dont you worry." The recruiter said as he walked off to some more applicants.

Trason slid the parchment into the front pocket on his cloak, and slid his hood over his head, as a light drizzle came down on the lively city.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 27 2005, 06:17 PM

QUOTE(Arsene @ Oct 27 2005, 06:51 PM)

"What kind of alcoholic concoctions do you have in this fine establishment?"

"Pretty much everything," said the barmaid. "Mazte, flinn, mead, brandy ... and more exotic drinks, like rothmet and jagga from Valenwood, wine from High Rock ... Oh, there's Kethiah now!"

She motioned over the co-proprietor of the tavern, Kethiah, a tall, athletic, serious-looking Dunmer woman with shoulder-length black hair, with two different colored eyes, one Dunmer red, and one bright violet.

"This fellow was asking about the job as a cook," said the barmaid.

"Oh yes?" said Kethiah, turning to him. "What experience do you have?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 06:18 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 05:53 PM)

So high up, it was easy for the parrapton riders to see the spells streaking towards them and dodge.

They were so high up, in fact, that a few of them missed, sending fireballs into the water, where they sizzled and bloomed, illuminating the ocean floor below. Seen from above, the effect was startlingly beautiful.

Tris, though, had eyes for only one beautiful sight: the decks and sails of the Red Falcon awash with flame. A mast fell, enveloping those crew members too sluggish to jump overboard.

Posted by: Arsene Oct 27 2005, 06:21 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 28 2005, 01:04 AM)

"Well ... I've catered for myself a lot and I used to have a job at a small tavern back home, I quit to come here. Some wine please by the way." he said to Ketiath.

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 06:22 PM

OOC Summary

Reichi Sari is on the Akarvina, waiting to join the fight
----

Reichi watched the Parraptons and the deflection of the enemy mages' fireballs with interest. Though he longed to actually participate in the battle soon. He gripped Bloodfang and the Dagger Of Senses tightly.

Times like this, I regret not having more training in ranged weaponry...or magic.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 27 2005, 06:29 PM

QUOTE(Arsene @ Oct 27 2005, 07:08 PM)

"Well ... I've catered for myself a lot and I used to have a job at a small tavern back home, I quit to come here. Some wine please by the way." he said to Ketiath.

Kethiah didn't move, but the barmaid brought him his wine.

"The Nymph and Noggin is really two taverns linked together," said Kethiah. "Though they share the same kitchen, one generally goes to the Noggin for heartier fare, and the Nymph for delicacies. Cheeses and scuttle. Pan roasted oysters. Kwama crisps. Smoked slaughterfish with a peppery pastry leaf. That sort of thing. Did you have experience with that level of cuisine?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 06:37 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 03:05 PM)

The amount of sluggish crewmen amounted to three. The men who jumped off had primarily been archers waiting for the Akarvina too get in range. Now they were in chaotic panic as their arrows floated right out of their quivers and they struggled to retrieve them. Those with any brains whatsoever left the water and their arrows behind to run off into the swamp in a panic. The fools, were left floundering clumsily to be picked off at leisure.

Posted by: Arsene Oct 27 2005, 06:38 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 28 2005, 01:16 AM)

"Never done slaughterfish before but it shouldn't be much different from others, I get the drift, it's not the kind of stuff I cook on a regular basis but I shouldn't have much problem with the menu. Every now and then a nob ( nobility ) comes through and they don't like being dissapointed."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 06:41 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 06:24 PM)

The parraptons dove after the crewmen in the water. Tris let them go, staying aloft to watch the ship burn. Was this some new manifestation of Falco's insanity, going down with the ship? Even if the captain was a lunatic, wouldn't the other crewmembers try to escape? What had Falco done, tied them up in the hold?

He swooped back to the deck of the Akarvina. "Something's up, not enough people on board."

The Akarvina was standing off, waiting for the Falcon to sink.

Posted by: syronj Oct 27 2005, 06:42 PM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian battlemage, is sitting in the small chapel of a Kvatch family mausoleum. Having retrieved the Skull of Corruption from the lich Manavrio, he is talking to Anya and Telera before returning to Ald Raathim.

The triad didn't attempt to take in whatever sights Kvatch might hold. Shaka found Tel and Anya hard to read, for the first time in a long while. It seemed to him the success of retrieving the legendary artifact Skull had been spoiled by the lich's escape.

The journey back to Daruhn by way of the Mages Guilds was far more leisurely than the frantic hunt for Manavrio. After several connections, they found themselves at last stepping out into Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 27 2005, 06:45 PM

QUOTE(Arsene @ Oct 27 2005, 07:25 PM)

"Exactly, and we have important guests more often than every once in a while," Kethiah nodded. "Well, if you want to be one of the cooks in the kitchen, we can start you on that right away, working with the others. If you want the position as head cook, I'd want you to cook me something so I know you're fast and good. In either case, I take it, you need a place to stay? Either position comes with room and board on top of the salary."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 06:45 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 07:28 PM)

Loranna frowns, saying "Then where are they?" as she looks over to Hla Oud.

"Maybe we caught most of his crew on shore leave or getting supplies and they're in the town," she suggests.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 06:45 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 03:28 PM)

And sink it did....going down with all the glory that it had maintained throughout its piracy career, wich wasn't much.

Silently the more potent crewmen watched their former mates die through the cracks in the shack walls. They cared little that people they had sailed with for so long were dying horrible deaths. These men were more concerned with keeping quiet and alive. They hoped the Akarvina would land soon....so the fun would really begin.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 27 2005, 06:51 PM

Vaan stepped into the Noggin section of the Nymph and Noggin Tavern. The boots made a very nice (and what he thought to be an authoritive - strange man!) thud on the floor of the establishment. In his stunningly perfect Muatramer armour, Vaan stood out, his height didn't help either, but that was the intention, the armour, infact, could be described like a flash of bright colour on a grey background. His long silver hair flowed behind him as it had always done, only this time, it was perhaps a little brighter than before.

Heads turned.

Vaan sat down at an empty table, and addressed the nearest barmaid, "Something extremely Alcoholic please."

It was his idea that Alcohol made him emotionally colder, and in his mind, this assignment needed that. Afterall, how else do you tell a mother that her son would make nothing better than great propoganda? Not while laughing, certainly.

OOC: outta here for tonight

Posted by: Arsene Oct 27 2005, 06:53 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 28 2005, 01:32 AM)

"I don't think I'm that good, I'll just go for being a cook, could you show me my quarters then I can move my stuff in there."

"I'm Ciric by the way, I grew up in cyrodill with a mad breton for company so don't be asking me stuff about Khajiit because I don't know any." He said.
"Keep the pay steady and the lodgings decent and nobody is going to end up with food poisoning." He joked, grinning.

ooc ( I'll be off soon )

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 06:53 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 06:32 PM)

Loranna frowns, saying "Then where are they?" as she looks over to Hla Oud.

"Maybe we caught most of his crew on shore leave or getting supplies and they're in the town," she suggests.

"No, someone had to be giving orders," Tris said. "They acted like people who knew what they were doing."

Dragon stretched his arms and cracked his neck. "My guess is Falco knew he couldn't escape us with the boat, so he's gone to ground. Try to make it out using stealth. And he might succeed too, Hla Oad is a smuggler's town, riddled with hiding places. Everyone up for a little sneaking through badly lit interiors waiting to be stabbed in the back of the neck? I know I'm looking forward to it."

"I hate it when you're sarcastic," Tris said. "All right, my parraptons are useless in this sort of fight, although they can tell you if anyone breaks and runs. Anyone got a brilliant plan?"

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 06:57 PM

"I'm used to skulking in the shadows and stabbing people," Reichi said. "Hla Oad isn't very big, if the Parraptons keep watch while we go in we'll have them cornered. From there its a matter of finding them and killing 'em."

Posted by: Sheogorath Oct 27 2005, 06:59 PM

QUOTE(Arsene @ Oct 27 2005, 07:40 PM)

"I don't think I'm that good, I'll just go for being a cook, could you show me my quarters then I can move my stuff in there." He said.

ooc ( I'll be off soon )

"I'll show you," said the barmaid. The room was small, but neat and comfortable, on the Noggin side of the tavern.

Kethiah went back to work. It was good to have another cook, but Ciric wasn't a replacement for Trasan. Not that they needed one immediately -- the cooks in the kitchen could continue to make what they had been making all along. But they did need a new head cook to manage them and develop a new menu as spring turned to summer and new ingredients came into season ...

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 06:59 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 07:40 PM)

Isidor spoke up, after a moment. "Guess the only thing we can do is go into the town, and hope for the best." He shrugged. "I'm not very good at making up plans ..."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 07:02 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 07:44 PM)

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 27 2005, 07:46 PM)

Isidor spoke up, after a moment. "Guess the only thing we can do is go into the town, and hope for the best." He shrugged. "I'm not very good at making up plans ..."

"Reichi and Isidor have a point; all there is to do now is to go in there and flush him out," Loranna concurs. "We have parraptons to watch the air and take down those who run for the swamps, we have magic and stealth and brute power. Only other alternative I can think of is to burn the whole village down ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 07:06 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 06:49 PM)

"We're in Redoran controlled territory," Dragon said. "Not that I expect a problem here, Hla Oad has always been like a sieve. But we have a time limit, coastal patrol's bound to notice the Akarvina soon and come after her.

Dragon turned to Eats-with-Claws. "You're not here to kill Falco. So I want your weapons."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 07:07 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 03:53 PM)

The argonian handed his hefty axe to the nord. "Sure thing Sir." He went back to silently fuming in the corner, plotting ways to kill someone with his bare hands.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 07:14 PM

Having decided on their strategy, Loranna, Dragon, Isidor, Reichi, and Eats-With-Claws board a landing boat and make for the harbor, while Tris and his flight of parraptons fly over the smuggler's town. Those citizens who had poked their heads out to witness the brief and firey battle between the two vessels quickly scurried back into their homes and locked their doors upon the sight of the giant wasps flying overhead; no one wanted to find themselves on the business end of a stinger the length of a man's arm.

Loranna flexes her fingers as they land, eyes scanning the empty streets, casting protective magic on the party as they step onto the dock. Who knew what awaited them in this quiet little fishing town?

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 07:24 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 04:01 PM)

Falco watched them with interest throught the cracks in the walls. Very few townspeople weren't down in the cavern, only those whose homes hadn't been taken over by the pirates.

All around the 'good guys' eyes watched them, the owners of said eyes were brandishing a lethal array of deadly and particularly nasty weaponry.

Once the group made their way to the center of town the ambush hit them like a brick. Almost two dozen heavily armed, and experienced men rushed out of the shacks. Each held his weapon expertly, and due to the placement of the buildings had completely surrounded the group. Though the speaker could not be seen, a familiar voice called out to them "Good day all! Sorry I have to kill you, nothing personal of course."

Then the pirates rushed them the cold eyes of murdering scum were on each of their faces as they charged the group. The mages stayed back, buffing and portecting the melee fighters.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 07:32 PM

When the trap is sprung, Loranna is in the middle of the group; seeing that they are surrounded, she immediately begins casting her spells, imbuing her companions with fortified strength and endurance to better fight off the snarling pirates.

She resists the urge to answer Falco back; she needed her breath for spells to keep everyone healthy and fighting hard in any event.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 07:35 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 07:11 PM)

Dragon laughed out loud. An ambush was much more welcome than going door to door throughout the town.

"It's going to take a little more than this, Falco!" he called, calling on the power of a ring to protect him from arrows, and slicing the first pirate foolish enough to step within his range. He felt strength flood his limbs from Loranna's spells. "TRIS! THE MAGES!"

Tris and the other parrapton riders dove. Four mages, five parrapton riders. He dodged an incoming fireball, felt the shock of his parrapton driving its stinger through the body of one mage. The parrapton buzzed furiously, struggling to free itself, while he sliced with his sword at another mage. Around him, his fellow riders were doing the same.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 07:42 PM

Isidor readied his axe, then looked at the figure approaching him. A tall, fearsome looking Orc advanced on him, waving an axe menacingly. Isidor swung his axe at the Orc's midsection, and hoped for the best.

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 07:45 PM

Reichi merely grinned, the blue blade of the Dagger Of Senses glinted in the sun, as he brought it up in a defensive position with his Daedric shortsword Bloodfang, its' enchantment glowing slightly. Reichi waited for the bandits to close, and swung, Bloodfang catching one in the chest, and the daedric blade, coupled with the life-draining enchantment, left the Pirate quite dead.

Reichi rushed into the pirates, blades whirling. "C'mon ya N'wah! I'll show ya some some real butchery!" he shouted, puntacting his sentence with leaving a Dunmer without his arm, from the elbow down.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Oct 27 2005, 07:55 PM

a slightly aged imperial man sat with his back against the wall of the cavern.
hmph, picked a fine time to go to Hla Oad. I should be up there fighting along side the crew of the Akarvina. Ah alls for the best.
the man named Ki'airre Del'fol began to pace the cavern floor deep in thoughts. twin scimitars occasionaly hitting his knees. heavy armor clanked against the claymore and great axe on his back.
if worse comes to worse at least i'm well armed.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 08:05 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 27 2005, 04:29 PM)

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 04:32 PM)

Fool thought Falco. He drew his saber and dropped his cloak and hat, "This one's mine get the others!"

The pirates focused their effort back onto the others and left Reichi to the captain. He closed in on the assassin. Falco's saber expertly slashed at his enemy's throat...

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 04:22 PM)

The three apprentices were quickly cut down, but not Erlycn. He cast a favorite spell of his, an area effect fire on target at the nearest rider. It was costly, but could kill quite a few people in a single blast.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 08:11 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 08:52 PM)

As she continues to weave protective and healing spells, Loranna sees a flash of fire again, and whirls in time to see Erlycn's spell streak toward one of Tris's parraptons.

There was no time to try and intercept the spell this time, and in any event, the backlash would still catch the flyers. It was time to pull out the stops.

With swift motions, Loranna casts a large resist fire spell, meant to cover a large area, at the threatened parraptons, followed swiftly by her best area-effect regen spell. The amount of magicka expended would drain many mages dry, and left even Loranna feeling weakened for a moment, but she had long-term potions to enhance her magicka pool and restore her magicka. And compared to the loss of life, the magic expended was well worth it.

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 08:16 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 08:52 PM)

The pirates focused their effort back onto the others and left Reichi to the captain. He closed in on the assassin. Falco's saber expertly slashed at his enemy's throat...

And was expertly blocked by Bloodfang. Reichi grinned, "I figured you'd have gone after Isidor, the fighting-your-best-friend thing seemed more dramatic," he commented, before stabbing at Falco his Dagger Of Senses.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 08:32 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 08:52 PM)

Isidor ducked the axe, and kicked out hard at the Orc's legs, before using his inborn ability to cast a frost spell at the great mer.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Oct 27 2005, 08:32 PM

Ki'airre rushed out of the cave with only one scimitar drawn. at the exit he was confronted by three pirates.
"pirates are'nt high on my list of mercy. and it seems that you three are indeed pirates."
Ki'airre lept forward swords drawn to lop off the first pirates head and arm. He would have no such luck with the next two though. the second pirate lunged forward attempting to pierce Ki'airre's armor. But ki'airre twisted to the side and knocked the sword out of the pirates hand. the pirate distracted by the sword, had no time to react to the foot speeding towards his face.
"two down one to go" as the words left his mouth so did a lightning bolt leave his fingertips.
"all done here. time to move on."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 08:50 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 07:52 PM)

Grugzock leaped backwards and sucked his stomach in. The axe missed him by just inches. Foul breath escaped his large, tusked, mouth. He raised his own Orcish battle axe and smashed it down at Isidor's head...
Fool thought Falco. He drew his saber and dropped his cloak and hat, "This one's mine get the others!"

The pirates focused their effort back onto the others and left Reichi to the captain. He closed in on the assassin. Falco's saber expertly slashed at his enemy's throat...
The three apprentices were quickly cut down, but not Erlycn. He cast a favorite spell of his, an area effect fire on target at the nearest rider. It was costly, but could kill quite a few people in a single blast.

Tris cursed, seeing the other parrapton riders surrounded by flames. The amulet his partners had insisted he wear reflected the blast right into Erlycn's face. But it didn't protect his companions, and it didn't protect his mount. With its wings aflame, his parrapton plunged, spinning out of control, emitting tiny, urgent shrieks.

Then Loranna's spell reached them, and the fires went out. A moment later, her healing took effect, and his mount righted itself.

Tris was angry now. The last time he had heard a parrapton scream was during the Blue Dawn. He focused his attention, aiming despite the rapid movement of both the opposing mage, trying to recover from the reflected flames, and his mount. Swung his sword. A moment later, the mage's head struck the ground.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 08:57 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 05:03 PM)

He deflected the blade with ease. "Well, oyu know me. Never one to be overly dramatic!" With that he began slashing at Reichi again, his movements controlled and precise.

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 27 2005, 05:19 PM)

Isidor ducked the axe, and kicked out hard at the Orc's legs, before using his inborn ability to cast a frost spell at the great mer.

The kick did absolutely nohing to the thick-as-small-tree-trunk lecksnof the orc. The Frost spell amounted to severely pissing him off. Activating his own berserk ability the orc began swinging wildly at his adversary with blows strong enough to crush a barn door.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 05:37 PM)

With the mages dead the parrapatons were free to begin attacking the pirates in the main group.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 09:07 PM

Tris and the parraptons safe, Loranna returns her attention to her friends. The pirates still had them surrounded, and Reichi and Isidor seemed to each be engaged in duels with skilled opponents. Still, the pirates now were without mages and the parraptons were free to strike at the rank and file; if she kept her companions fortified and healed, they had this battle.

Loranna once again casts spells to protect Dragon, Isidor, and Reichi, one of her custom spells that combined a shiled with a regen effect, good for reinforcing fighters facing superior numbers. As she's casting, though, she fails to notice one of the pirates, a bit brighter than his companions, cast a small jump spell and spring into the air, intent on taking down the enemy healer.

A passing shadow is all the warning Loranna gets of the doom falling from above.

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 09:13 PM

Reichi merely shooked his hand, parrying Falco's blows with his own, which seemed just as precise, despite that Reichi was weilding two weapons simultaneously. Reichi picked up speed and began throwing out a multitude of blows, from varying angles to overwhelm Falco, as with Loranna's spell he could afford letting a few hit through.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Oct 27 2005, 09:15 PM

Ki'airre quickly cast a fortify acrobatics spell and before either could react a foot caught the pirate, who was attempting to attack loranna, in the ribs. the mid-air kick sent him flying into the side of the nearest shack instead of his original target.
ki'airre quickly turned, the joy of battle evident in his green eyes."there's more we need to stay alert.i'm Ki'airre by the way."
the pirate stirred as he clutched his ribs and struggled to stand. his efforts were cut short though as Ki'airre's claymore split his skull.
"Come on before they all get away!"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 27 2005, 09:15 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 09:44 PM)

Isidor dodged out of the way of the axe swings, and postioned himself to strike at the orc's neck, from behind. He swung his axe, and hoped it would hit.

ooc: Out for the night.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 09:24 PM

Falco would have tried killed them all but then decided to eat pie instead.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 09:35 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 09:00 PM)

"I've got your back, Reichi," Dragon said. "You just concentrate on Falco."

These men were skilled fighters, but not skilled at teamwork. The old Nord smiled, stepped back out of range, and waited for them to come to him. The first man to make a tentative slash in his direction found his sword, and his hand, lying on the ground.

"Right, that's done it for the mages," Tris yelled to the parrapton riders. "Concentrate on protecting the Lady!"

The five parraptons riders skimmed between the buildings, circled, and swept through the ranks of the pirates, lances ready.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 10:11 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 06:00 PM)

Falco was finding it hard to keep up with the blows. He began to go on the defensive, just barely able to stop Reichi with no time for an attack of his own.

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 27 2005, 06:02 PM)

Isidor dodged out of the way of the axe swings, and postioned himself to strike at the orc's neck, from behind. He swung his axe, and hoped it would hit.

ooc: Out for the night.

Grugzock did not realize that he had even been wounded. The orc continued swinging wildly at some invisible opponent, the effects of the berserk blinding him both literally, as well as to all pain. Some ten seconds later, the orc abruptly stopped swinging and fell stone dead.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 06:22 PM)

That did it. The few remaining pirates (about 8) threw down their weapons on the spot. And put their arms up in surrender. They weren't going to die in a fight with these people.

That is all pirates but Falco. He nervously scanned the area for an escape route as he battled Reichi...

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 10:21 PM

QUOTE(ROLF_THE_UBER @ Oct 27 2005, 10:02 PM)

Loranna was surprised by the sudden attack - and the equally-sudden rescue. She spared just half a second to wonder at the older Imperial in the heavy armor, who moved with magically endowed grace like a parrapton lancing an enemy.

"My thanks," she says, giving Ki'airre a grateful flash of a grin. Then, it was back to the whirl of battle - a battle which seemed all but over, as the remaining pirates surrendered. All except Falco.

"Time to end this," Loranna says, whispering one more spell. "Falco, give me your strength ..." Her hands glow with a white light as she casts an Absorb Strength spell on Falco.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 10:26 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 09:58 PM)

Falco was finding it hard to keep up with the blows. He began to go on the defensive, just barely able to stop Reichi with no time for an attack of his own.
Grugzock did not realize that he had even been wounded. The orc continued swinging wildly at some invisible opponent, the effects of the berserk blinding him both literally, as well as to all pain. Some ten seconds later, the orc abruptly stopped swinging and fell stone dead.
That did it. The few remaining pirates (about 8) threw down their weapons on the spot. And put their arms up in surrender. They weren't going to die in a fight with these people.

That is all pirates but Falco. He nervously scanned the area for an escape route as he battled Reichi...

Tris brought his parraptons in to land in a rough circle, surrounding the pirates. He watched them intently for signs of motion, trying not to be distracted by Reichi and Falco's battle.

"On the ground, hands over your heads, if you want to live a little longer," Dragon said to the pirates who had surrendered.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 10:29 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 07:08 PM)

Falco was in the middle of an uppercut to Reichi when he fell to the ground, his legs to weak to stand. His arms too weak to hold his weapon. The argonian lay in the dirt attempting to stand to his feet, but to no avail. Falco Redflash was defeated.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 07:13 PM)

The pirates complied willingly. They had no interest in being impaled by some giant bug whose name they couldn't pronounce.

Posted by: Aki Oct 27 2005, 10:35 PM

Reichi sheathed Bloodfang and picked up Falco's saber. Even though he knew Falco was too weak to hold it even he had gotten ahold of it. "You Sir Redflash, just got your scaled [censored] handed to you on a silve platter."

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Oct 27 2005, 10:37 PM

Ki'airre simply watched as the mage cast a spell on the pirate leader.
"you command magic well, as i said before my name is Ki'airre. Ki'airre De'fol. I am a traveling warwizard of sorts and i just happened to be in Hla Oad at the time of the battle. I hope we can be allies. for more your sake than mine." the green eyes for a moment seemed to flash with a strange color that hinted at a bestial hunger but the moment quickly passed.
"Ahh, lets talk. Who are you and who are your allies."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 10:41 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 27 2005, 10:22 PM)

Dragon had picked up the pirates' weapons and placed them in a pile. He looked at Falco, then at Eats-with-Claws.

"Sir, just a moment, we have business," he said to Ki'airre.

"I believe you had something you wanted to say," he said to Eats-with-Claws, his tone perfectly neutral.

Tris bit his lips, and bided his time.

Posted by: syronj Oct 27 2005, 10:43 PM

Shaka walked to the House of Dibella, the Skull of Corruption in a wooden box within his gear bag. Telera and Anya were quiet.

He noticed what appeared to be alarm bells being put into place in town, and nodded. Someone had been on the ball with that one; Shaka wouldn't have thought of it first.

For the second time, the triad entered the cathedral to Dibella.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 10:51 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 27 2005, 10:30 PM)

The three were brought before Galar, priestess of Dibella. She seemed honestly startled to see them.

"You're alive! Do you... are you here to ask for help? There aren't any knights of the Lily free to go with you, that's why you were hired."

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 10:55 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 07:28 PM)

Eats-With-Claws looked at his commander and nodded. He approached his son and spoke to the pirate, "Well son, I hope you're damn happy with yourself!"

"I am, thank you!" he said sarcastically.

"Watch your mouth son. You're gonna get yourself killed by talking like that to these people"

"Yeah, well looks like I'm gonna die here anyway, unless you got any better ideas."

"Why, Falco?"

"Why what?"

"Why did you do this to yourself? Why did you bring such shame to your family?"

"Because, I bloody well felt like it."

"I wish we hadn't made that decision so long ago..."

"What decision?"

"When my debtors came, they weren't coming for your mother and myself. They were coming for a young, strong, healthy child to enslave. They were wcoming for you. Your mother and I decided that we would rather be enslaved ourselves than let our son face the horrors of slavery. We gave you a chance to live a normal life. And you wasted it. I can live staying enslaved. I can live with my life wasted away. But your mother died. She DIED! and all so that you could waste your life. I wish we had sent you to the mines that day instead of wasting our lives trying to save yours."

Falco hung his head low and didn't speak. Eats-With-Claws looked at Dragon, "Do what you want with him. Thats All I had to say."

Posted by: syronj Oct 27 2005, 10:56 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 11:38 PM)

Shaka brought out the box and gave it to Galar. "It's finished for now, Priestess. I can only tell you of a partial victory. Manavrio has escaped, but we destroyed his sanctum in Black Marsh. And here is the Skull of Corruption."

"Priestess . . . I can't lie to you. I traded Manavrio's journal back to him for the Skull. And he probably knows that Ald Raathim is the center of the struggle against him now. But I felt that this legendary artifact was more important than his notes."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 11:04 PM

QUOTE(ROLF_THE_UBER @ Oct 27 2005, 11:24 PM)

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 11:42 PM)

Loranna is quiet for a moment, stunned. Really, what could you say to that? A father and a mother making such a sacrifice for their child, the child not understanding ... and now, all this hatred and bitterness between the two of them?

Loranna's own parents had been thoughtless, but never once had they ever openly said "I wish we'd let you rot after all." Nine, her father, once he got over his shock at seeing her again, was happy she was alive and doing well ...

" ... That's it?" she says, incredulous. "Everything you did for him, and now you don't care anymore what happens to him?" Her eyes were moist, but she didn't care; this felt so wrong ...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:05 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 27 2005, 10:43 PM)

Galar took the Skull of Corruption from Shaka.

"I don't think we really need a lich's diary, do we? This, now - this is an Artifact. This is what we were after. But it's not good that he knows about Ald Raathim. Not good at all."

She turned and spoke to a priest, who went to fetch Maranda.

"The skull goes to the House of Dibella in the Imperial City. And so must you. The magic you want, to alter your race, is within the Goddess's power. But she can only act within her sphere. You must provide the essentials for the transformation yourself. The blood of an Argonian, that you have. The blood of a Redguard. Something beautiful, which you will give to the Goddess in return for her bestowing such favor upon you. Do not insult her with trivialities."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:09 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 10:42 PM)

"When my debtors came, they weren't coming for your mother and myself. They were coming for a young, strong, healthy child to enslave. They were wcoming for you. Your mother and I decided that we would rather be enslaved ourselves than let our son face the horrors of slavery. We gave you a chance to live a normal life. And you wasted it. I can live staying enslaved. I can live with my life wasted away. But your mother died. She DIED! and all so that you could waste your life. I wish we had sent you to the mines that day instead of wasting our lives trying to save yours."

Falco hung his head low and didn't speak. Eats-With-Claws looked at Dragon, "Do what you want with him. Thats All I had to say."

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 10:51 PM)

" ... That's it?" she says, incredulous. "Everything you did for him, and now you don't care anymore what happens to him?" Her eyes were moist, but she didn't care; this felt so wrong ...

"It seems fair to me," Tris said. "He wasted his life trying to save you from slavery."

He had been itching to drive his sword through Falco; now he was itching to kick Falco's father.

Dragon said nothing at all.

Posted by: Shardie Oct 27 2005, 11:09 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 02:52 PM)

She turned and spoke to a priest, who went to fetch Maranda.

Maranda was, like most days, in her room, reading a copy of 'King Edward' she had done alot of reading since she returned, with no major threats to the temple and that, but she was excited when Galar called for her, wondering what it could be about. She put down her book, and made her way to the priestess' chambers

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 11:13 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 07:51 PM)

Loranna gives Ki'airre an uneasy smile, noting the brief look in his eyes. This man has probably been on the inside of a cage for a bit too long, she decides, or else has been away from people too long; his greeting did not inspire the greatest confidence.

"We shall see," she says, her expression mirroring Dragon's comment.
Loranna is quiet for a moment, stunned. Really, what could you say to that? A father and a mother making such a sacrifice for their child, the child not understanding ... and now, all this hatred and bitterness between the two of them?

Loranna's own parents had been thoughtless, but never once had they ever openly said "I wish we'd let you rot after all." Nine, her father, once he got over his shock at seeing her again, was happy she was alive and doing well ...

" ... That's it?" she says, incredulous. "Everything you did for him, and now you don't care anymore what happens to him?" Her eyes were moist, but she didn't care; this felt so wrong ...

Eats-With-Claws looked at her, his expression unmoving. "He deserves a good sword through the heart. Any who want to: be my guest and kill him. My son means nothing to me now."

The argonian left for the Akarvina.

Still, Falco did not speak nor did he reaise his head. He no longer cared whether he lived or died. Nothing mattered now...

Posted by: syronj Oct 27 2005, 11:15 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 11:52 PM)

"The skull goes to the House of Dibella in the Imperial City. And so must you. The magic you want, to alter your race, is within the Goddess's power. But she can only act within her sphere. You must provide the essentials for the transformation yourself. The blood of an Argonian, that you have. The blood of a Redguard. Something beautiful, which you will give to the Goddess in return for her bestowing such favor upon you. Do not insult her with trivialities."

Shaka nodded. "I understand." But he didn't yet know what would suffice. Buying gold or jewels for the Goddess would be predictable, trivial in the end. And what Redguard could he approach for such a gift?

He raised a hand in greeting to Maranda as she entered the room.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:18 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 27 2005, 11:02 PM)

"Daughter," the priestess said, turning to Maranda. "These ones have returned alive, with the Skull of Corruption. The lich still lives, however - and now he knows to look in Ald Raathim for the final piece of his puzzle."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:21 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Oct 27 2005, 11:00 PM)

Dragon crouched beside Falco, putting his hand on the Argonian's crested skull.

"One thing needs to be said," Dragon said. "If you are both at fault - you were a child, and he was an adult. Now. Look me in the eye, tell me whether you want to go back to Mournhold, to face a tribunal which will judge the crimes of the Butcher of the Inner Sea - or do you want it to end here?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 11:24 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 08:08 PM)

He looked up at Dragon. The effects of the absorb strength spell still weighed heavily upon him. "Yes, I will face trial. I will owe up to the crimes I have commited. Perhaps it will bring a little bit of condolence to the families of those I have slain."

Posted by: Shardie Oct 27 2005, 11:24 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 03:05 PM)

'That is... Dangerous indeed. I know not how he figured it out, however, it is safely protected under wards of Arkay, no non living creature could pass these wards, and Manaviro would be hard pressed to launch a full scale assult on Ald Raatham... nether the less, I think we have to do somthing about it, perhaps extract the jewel? It will cost the Ferrets life, yes, and make the jewel a beacon to Manaviro, but it would give us time to study it and find out what it is. Furthermore, we could send the Ferret back to the Imperial City for better protection there...' Maranda looked stumped, 'perhaps we should consult the oracle on this matter?'

Posted by: Tri Oct 27 2005, 11:25 PM

Marein, who had fought against the pirates (with a new ebony shortsword, not the daedric murder weapon) now spoke.

"Can we trust you?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 27 2005, 11:27 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 12:11 AM)

"Maranda, it was through a stupid slip of my tongue that he found out. But I hope you won't kill the ferret. Somehow I don't want that on my conscience as well."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:29 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 27 2005, 11:11 PM)

"I have orders from the Mother House in the Imperial City," the Priestess said. "They will want to be consulted before any action is taken. Perhaps you could carry the creature with you, and go there? They will consult their oracles, and determine if the jewel can perhaps be destroyed."

She didn't seem overly concerned about the life of the ferret. To a Dunmer, a ferret was nearer vermin than a pet.

Posted by: Argonians rule Oct 27 2005, 11:31 PM

Falco's head fell limply to the side. He was drained of all energy. He would not awaken for some time.

Posted by: Tri Oct 27 2005, 11:34 PM

"So," said Marein drily, "can we trust him?"

He looked around at the rest of them.

"I don't think so. I don't think we should kill him now - I'm all for honor and such - but what are we going to do with this..." No word seemed sufficient, so he just waved his foot at Falco.

Posted by: Shardie Oct 27 2005, 11:35 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 03:14 PM)

"Maranda, it was through a stupid slip of my tongue that he found out. But I hope you won't kill the ferret. Somehow I don't want that on my conscience as well."

'Dont concern yourself with it, if you have put the town at risk, so be it, although Manaviro is not the type for a direct attack'

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 03:16 PM)

'Very well, I shall collect the beast, and be on my way post haste. Perhaps we should wait and inform Lady Loranna of this incident before we do anymore? Otherwise, I shall be gone by tomorrow morn' she said, emotionlessly

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 11:36 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 12:21 AM)

"He's surrendered," Loranna says. "We take him to Mournhold to stand trial for his crimes, just like Dragon said."

She didn't know who she felt bad for more; Falco, or Eat-With-Claws. She couldn't bring herself to look at Falco's father right now, in any event.

"We've finished what we came to do; let us tend to the wounded and do whatever else needs to be done before we depart," she suggests.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:40 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 27 2005, 11:21 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 27 2005, 11:23 PM)

"Don't be stupid, Marein, of course we can't trust him," Dragon said. "Never could. He's not our property, however; his head belongs to King Helseth. Let Helseth make use of him, to mend the damage he's done to the shipping trade."

"I just want to kick his father," Tris muttered under his breath.

The surrendered pirates were rounded up and taken on board the Akarvina. None of them would live very long. But at least they would have the honor of a public execution.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 27 2005, 11:43 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 27 2005, 11:22 PM)

'Dont concern yourself with it, if you have put the town at risk, so be it, although Manaviro is not the type for a direct attack'
'Very well, I shall collect the beast, and be on my way post haste. Perhaps we should wait and inform Lady Loranna of this incident before we do anymore? Otherwise, I shall be gone by tomorrow morn' she said, emotionlessly

"Her Ladyship of Ald Raathim isn't in residence at the moment," the Priestess said. "I don't think it's a good idea to delay; Manavrio may not usually attack directly, but it's better not to give him the chance. Speak with her seneschal, Kallen, before you go."

Posted by: Shardie Oct 27 2005, 11:46 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 03:30 PM)

'Then I shall make haste for the castle at once' She bowed low, and rushed out of the room, returning to her own room, where she donned her armour and her swords. She quickly ran through the streets of Ald Raatham intill she had reached the castle. There, she asked for an appointment to see Kallen

Posted by: Loranna Oct 27 2005, 11:52 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 12:33 AM)

Maranda finds Kallen working in Loranna's study, writing up reports for his Lady. She is ushed into the study soon after requesting Kallen's attention.

"Greetings sera," Kallen says, as polite and effecient as ever. "What business brings you here today?"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 27 2005, 11:59 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 28 2005, 03:39 PM)

'I bring a dire message for you to pass onto Lady Loranna when she returns' Maranda said gravely, 'The Lich, Manaviro has discovered that the last stone of the Icedale Pendent resides within Ald Raatham. The House of Dibella are moving it to a safer location, however, we feel it was best the Lady was informed of this threat. Manaviro could try and infiltrate the city to retrieve the stone, and this she should be warned about,' she paused, her report over, and waited for Kallen's response

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 12:03 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 12:46 AM)

Kallen is silent for the space of two heartbeats.

"I see," he says to Maranda, his voice as even and professional as ever. "I shall inform the Lady of this immediately upon her return. I predict she will wish to ask for whatever information you and the House of Dibella has concerning the lich Manaviro. What do you know of him and his powers and plans?"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 28 2005, 12:12 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 28 2005, 03:50 PM)

'I have already sent the lady a letter containing what is known about this threat. He is wanting the completion of an artifact known as the Icedale Pendant. within which, are seven jewels. I shant disclose how they are hidden to you, for the safty of the jewels. We know he has six of the Jewels, we do not know if he has the Pendent Base, we do not know what the Icedale Pendent would do if completed. He formally had the Skull of Corruption in his posession, but seems to no longer have any use for it. We do not know who Manaviro was before he became a lich, or his powers and goals, other than searching for this pendent,' she paused once more

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 12:17 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 12:59 AM)

"I see," Kallen says. "I shall make sure that all this is relayed to the Lady upon her return."

He nods once more to Maranda. "I thank you for bringing this to my attention; I must conduct other business now, good day sera."

Posted by: Shardie Oct 28 2005, 12:23 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 28 2005, 04:04 PM)

Maranda bowed and made her way to the hiding place where the Ferret was kept. A few words with the keeper, and Maranda was at the Mages Guild. The Temple would pay for her journey, and the Imperial City was now before her. She Made her way to the Temple of Dibella, and asked to be granted an audience with the High Priestess. She was told to wait, and wait she did

Posted by: Teleran Oct 28 2005, 01:28 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 27 2005, 09:02 PM)

Telera tried to think of things to offer Dibella in exchange for this boon. The first one was obvious enough, Shaka himself would provide it. For the second, though, she didn’t know very many Ra’Gada, and none well enough to ask this particular boon of. She hoped the others would have ideas on what to do about that requirement.

The third, something beautiful, a few things came to mind, she figured it had something that was specific to Shaka for giving though. That would narrow things, flowers and jewels were out. Pretty enough but, really, they were trivialities. Well, unless they could find one like Flamekiss, but that was more than just a pretty gem. Maybe a wondrously rare flower, but that would be difficult to find and if they did, no guarantee they could pick it without making it wither too quickly to offer it to Dibella.

Standing, she turned to Anya and Shakato tell them, “If you two think of any ideas for the something beautiful and the blood of a Redguard, you can find me in the river, I think I’ll go for a swim. See you later, probably be by the yurt.”

‘I have an idea on how to get the Redguard blood. See that one, over there? Cut him open and take his blood. Then you have Redguard blood, quick and simple.’

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 01:33 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Oct 28 2005, 02:15 AM)

Standing, she turned to Anya and Shakato tell them, “If you two think of any ideas for the something beautiful and the blood of a Redguard, you can find me in the river, I think I’ll go for a swim. See you later, probably be by the yurt.”

‘I have an idea on how to get the Redguard blood. See that one, over there? Cut him open and take his blood. Then you have Redguard blood, quick and simple.’

Shaka squeezed Tel's hand before she left. For a while he stood in thought. Something the dunmer had said resonated for a second within the battlemage, but soon he turned back to Anya and the Priestess.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 28 2005, 01:36 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 12:20 AM)

Anya grabbed Shaka's hand, "Unless I misinterpruted what the preistess said, why does the beautiful thing have to be an object?" She squezzed his hand, and looked at him, "I think we found something truly beautiful when we first met."

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 11:19 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 28 2005, 02:23 AM)

Shaka took both of Anya's hands. Her startling green eyes and the cherry tattoo held him, as they always had had the power to do.

"We did. We have, Anya. . . . I will keep that in mind for when we stand in the Temple in Cyrodiil. Somehow I thought it would have to be something given to the Goddess and kept by Her, not returned to me."

"I'm trying to think of a Redguard who would be willing to help. I don't want to use force or stealth for a blood gift."

Posted by: Arsene Oct 28 2005, 01:38 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Oct 28 2005, 01:46 AM)

Ciric moved his stuff ( a few changes of clothes, some books and some minor things ) into the new room. He then went down to have a chat about his working hours.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 28 2005, 02:41 PM

Summary

Kratos has been in Molag Mar, planning to use surreptitious basics to take back the Shrines on Vvardenfell.

He has heard from one of his Muatramer subordinates that the Imperials will be sending forces back to Vvardenfell soon.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 04:12 PM

Vaan held up the tankard to his eye.

Good. He'd drunken enough to dull his emotions, but not to make him drunk.

He took out a piece of paper, with some scrawled instructions on it, and read it, muttering to himself.

"The boys name again....ah yes! A one Tyradill, nice name."

He looked around. "And he lives here....but how do I find him?"

He stood up, and began to walk around, thinking, and waiting, like a Hunter after its prey.

Waiting for Tyradill.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 04:23 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 04:59 PM)

Waiting for Tyradill.

Luckily for Vaan, Tyradil was coming down the stairs at that moment, after telling Davala to meet him in a room of the Nymph, in a few minutes. Tyradil was easily recognizeable as Isidor's son, if you'd ever met Isidor.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 04:32 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:10 PM)

Vaan had indeed met Isidor, at the wedding. Thus, poor Tyradill found himself facing a Tall Handsome Dunmer, who had immediately blocked his route.

Vaan got straight down to it. "We have business, you and I"

He was half expecting the kid to try and smash him in the balls and run off screaming to his parents, if you'd been kidnapped soon before, wouldn't you? Vaan certainly would, but he was hoping for the boys goodwill, and at the same time moving his hands into a strategic defensive position over his essentials.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 04:35 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 05:19 PM)

Tyradil had no interest in this man's balls, or kicking them. He did have an interest in Davala, though ... "Um, business? ... Do I know you?"

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Oct 28 2005, 04:38 PM

Slashes-With-Claws was leading a small group of soldiers on a patrol. More ambushes of trade caravans, by Redoran, had been reported.

Slashes had decided to change tactics this time. He was leading the best ambushers of his company through the trees, following a friendly caravan along the road. There was another group of his men on the other side of the road.

Suddenly arrows flew out of the bushes towards the caravan. His soldiers moved towards the enemy positions. As some of the Redoran atackers moved onto the road to raid the wagons they were fired on from the trees by Slashes' men.

The Redoran's were caught by surprise, several were killed outright, while others attempted to flee. Slashes chased one down and struck him from behind knocking him down. He grabbed the Redoran by the throat and took his weapons. Once Slashes was sure the Redoran had no more weapons he released his throat.

"A prize to take back to the general." he said. Slashes took a claw and scratched an X on the side of the dunmer's face. "You will never forget me." Slashes had the man tied up and brought him back to Ald Raathim.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 04:41 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:22 PM)

Tyradil had no interest in this man's balls, or kicking them. He did have an interest in Davala, though ... "Um, business? ... Do I know you?"

"Of course not, But I'm commander Vaan Surethi of the Muatramer order of protection, essentially, a servant of the Dunmer Tribunal Temple."

Vaan looked around. "I did meet your father once, I spent some time with him Sentinel too. That, however, is not important, Tyradill. Is there anywhere secure and private we could talk, now?

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 04:45 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 05:28 PM)

Tyradil looked slightly unsure, but knew that Kethiah and the other bar employees were around, if he needed help. "Um, sure. There's a room back there where we could talk ..." Tyradil pointed to a door, slightly ajar that led to a room with two sofas, and two chairs.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 04:50 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:32 PM)

"Very good, Tyradill." Replied Vaan, and he walked into the room, beconing Tyradill to do the same.

when they were both sat down (Vaan left the door open, so that anyone looking for Tyradill could easily find him in here) Vaan continued.

"Now, Tyradill, how do you like the idea of doing a service to the people of Morrowind?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 04:53 PM

Shaka excused himself and returned to the yurt, on foot since he hadn't yet reset a Mark. Anya seemed to need some time alone as well.

The clearing that held the yurt was quiet when he arrived an hour later. It was good to be home after the battle in Manavrio's lair, and the trip to Kvatch. Shaka walked down the trail to the waterfall to see if Telera was still around.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 04:55 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 05:37 PM)

Tyradil sat down on the couch, and looked over at Vaan. "Um; in what way? Something to do with the muta-ma-mutare-; what you mentioned before?"

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 05:01 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:42 PM)

Tyradil sat down on the couch, and looked over at Vaan. "Um; in what way? Something to do with the muta-ma-mutare-; what you mentioned before?"

Vaan laughed at the Boy's pronounciation of it. "It's Muatramer, by the way."

"Ever heard of a thing called propaganda, Tyradil? It's where we spread stories around the country in order to make everyone feel better about the situation, and to hate the enemy more. My Current task here, as random as it is, is to collect stories that would make good propaganda for the temple. Your particular story, Tyradil, would make very good Propaganda."

He said it not patronisingly, but in a very understanding and mature tone.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Oct 28 2005, 05:01 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 27 2005, 10:28 PM)

"Sir, just a moment, we have business," he said to Ki'airre.

Ki'airre gave the man a strange look not unlike the one he gave loranna except this one with a little more menace.
"ahh, sir may we speak somewhere a little less bloody? by the way would you happen to know of an imperial woman from skyrim, she goes by the name katie rose? she is usually seen in armor decorated by a red rose." the look on Ki'airre's face changed from what it was to one that resembled worry.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 05:04 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 05:48 PM)

"Ah ... My story?" Tyradil asked, his expression turing sour. "Getting kidnapped and tied to a tree? That's good for the Temple?"

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 05:16 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:51 PM)

"Ah ... My story?" Tyradil asked, his expression turing sour. "Getting kidnapped and tied to a tree? That's good for the Temple?"

Vaan rolled his eyes, but not in any mocking way, it was more a sort of a "Don't be silly, Tyradil" roll.

"The bottom line is, If we spread around the fact that Evil Redoran cowards have been breaking their honour by Kidnapping children, it's good for the war effort, makes people more determined to win. What I want, is your blessing, Tyradil, your permission for us to tell everyone about this. Of course, we could just post it around without telling you, but the Temple is not like that, we are considerate of peoples feelings, thus, we want your, and your mothers or fathers, permission first."

"Naturally, your name won't be mentioned, but the location will, and other things like that. It's for the War effort Tyradil, and you do want us, the good guys, to win the war, don't you?"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 28 2005, 05:17 PM

Molag Mar

Kratos was watching as his Muatramer troops were going through their daily calisthenics. "They are a damn good fighting force. Commanding them is just one of the perks of this job." He smiled under his bronze helm.

He continued watching them as one of his Muatramer officials approached. "Sir, what assignment do you have for me?" The bright young officer asked, saluting. "Ah yes, Captain Ivelaes. I've got a special assingment for you. You are to travel to Ald Raathim and collect news about this city to bring back to me. I am rather unable to travel at the moment, as you know, Captain. Do you understand these orders?" Kratos detailed to the young Dunmer. "Yes, Sir." He said, faithfully, as he saluted and headed back to the Muatramer barracks to pack what he needed.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 05:37 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 06:03 PM)

"Well," Tyradil said, shifting uncomfortably, "My father isn't here right now, and I'd really like to discuss it with him first ...."

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 05:43 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 06:24 PM)

"Well," Tyradil said, shifting uncomfortably, "My father isn't here right now, and I'd really like to discuss it with him first ...."

"Understandable" Replied Vaan. "I was going to do that myself, after of course, recieving your own blessing, it would be for the best, if yours was recieved first."

"As for your father, what is he doing right now, anyway?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 05:51 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 06:30 PM)

"Ah, ok. He said that he to deal with an old friend ... don't know what that meant."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 28 2005, 05:54 PM

Ald Raathim

The young Captain Ivelaes strolled through the streets of Ald Raathim in his full dress Muatramer uniform after being transported by the guild guide. He noticed that it was a nice little city that was still growing.

He noticed a big tavern called the Nymph and Noggin and entered. He had a seat in his substantially heavy armor as he ordered a drink.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 05:55 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 06:38 PM)

"Ah, ok. He said that he to deal with an old friend ... don't know what that meant."

Vaan translated roughly in his head what it could've meant.

"Ah, perhaps, someone of your age shouldn't know, either." Vaan said, A tone of authority in his voice.

"Anyway, back to the topic at hand, your blessing, Tyradil?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 05:55 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 06:42 PM)

Tyradil raised an eyebrow. He didn't like condescention. "Fine. Go wild."

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 06:06 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 06:42 PM)

Tyradil raised an eyebrow. He didn't like condescention. "Fine. Go wild."

"Wonderful, you have made the right choice, Tyradil."

Vaan smiled, and walked out of the room.

QUOTE

He noticed a big tavern called the Nymph and Noggin and entered. He had a seat in his substantially heavy armor as he ordered a drink.

Vaan was suprised at the presence of another Muatramer. He strode over behind him, and whispered in his ear "Well Well Well, what brings you here, Soldier?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 06:12 PM

As Tyradil and Vaan talked, a rather attractive young Nordic man entered the tavern. He was tall, well built, with a handsome face, and a winning smile.

He walked over to the bar, and with a wink at the barmaid, he said, "I hear, my dear, there is an opening for a cook, in this tavern. Who might I speak to about that?"

The barmaid giggled a little bit and said, "Well, sera, both of the owners are busy right now. If you come around later though, one should be around."

The man smiled and said, "In that case, can I get a bed for the night? And maybe someone to share it with?"

The barmaid giggled again, and said, in a lower voice, "Um, beds are ten gold for the night, and if you're looking for ... 'companionship', the house of Dibella might be able to help you ..."

The man winked again and said, "Ok, thank you." He took out some gold and laid it in the counter. It was more then 10 gold. "If you wanted to buy yourself something nice." He took the room key she handed him, and walked up towards his room, as she blushed furiously and giggled.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 28 2005, 06:13 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 03:53 PM)

"Wonderful, you have made the right choice, Tyradil."

Vaan smiled, and walked out of the room.
Vaan was suprised at the presence of another Muatramer. He strode over behind him, and whispered in his ear "Well Well Well, what brings you here, Soldier?"

Captain Ivelaes turned his head and, noticing the insignias on the Muatramer's armor, stood up and saluted. "Sir, I am Captain Ivelaes of the Order of War in Molag Mar. I have been sent here by Grandmaster Kratos to collect news of Ald Raathim for him. He would travel here himself if he wasn't as busy as he is at the moment." The young soldier replied.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 06:20 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Oct 28 2005, 07:00 PM)

"Pity really, I would've liked to meet him again, to see how he's managing with the Chaos Council soldiers." Van said, inspecting his nails.

"For that matter, how are you, finding them, Captain? You've possibly got a few under your command." Vaan paused, realising that Captain Ivelaes probably did not have a clue what he was going on about. "You know, the ones with Tattooed faces like mine." Vaan finished, gesturing to the tattoos that adorned his handsome face.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 28 2005, 06:28 PM

QUOTE(vaanic~one @ Oct 28 2005, 04:07 PM)

"Chaos Council soldiers ...? That tattoo does seem familiar, Grandmaster Kratos would not share such important information with me. I am only a Captain. I am not one of the Commanders." He replied.

"May I be so bold as to ask what you are doing here Grandmaster?" He asked, removing his Muatramer helm and setting it on the table.

Posted by: vaanic~one Oct 28 2005, 06:32 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Oct 28 2005, 07:15 PM)

"Me? Oh, I was stressing out at work, with all these spies and assassins and whatnot, so the temple sent me on a vacation slash simple task. I'm here gathering Propaganda stories, simple, really."

He sat down, and ordered a drink.

OOC: outta here for tonight.

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 06:52 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 02:59 PM)

Diamond witnessed this conversation disgustedly.

"Nine, have a little dignity," she muttered

She wasn't sure if the other barmaid heard her. It would be up to the stars to determine that.

Posted by: Shardie Oct 28 2005, 06:59 PM

Maranda sat there for what seemed to be hours, however the copies of 'Dibella Weekly' that were kept near by kept her entertained. Her Ferret was in a cage on the chair beside her. An Attendent arrived and told Maranda she could see the priestess. Maradna put down her magazine, picked up the Ferret Cage, and followed the attendent to the High Priestess' chamber, where she was let in

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 07:07 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 06:46 PM)

"Ah, daughter, how good to see you again," Solena Caro said, kissing Maranda. "I hope you understand that some things can't be interrupted. Now, what brings you to our House in Cyrodiil?"

Posted by: Shardie Oct 28 2005, 07:16 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 10:54 AM)

"Ah, daughter, how good to see you again," Solena Caro said, kissing Maranda. "I hope you understand that some things can't be interrupted. Now, what brings you to our House in Cyrodiil?"

'Yes, I did not mind waiting. I bring dire news, though,' Maranda's face looked grim, 'Although our Temple has recovered the Skull of Corruption, the Indervidual who recovered it let it be known to the Lich, Manaviro that the Jewel he seeks we were hiding in Ald Raatham. As it no longer seemed safe to keep the Jewel here, I was ordered to come here and consult you, and the oracles on what to do next,' she paused and placed the cage with the ferret in it before the Priestess, 'I am sure you have recived the reports I sent you apon the Jewel, its within the Ferret, hence making it hard to track down. But Manaviro KNOWS its inside the Ferret. does your worship have any Idea on what to do next?'

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 07:19 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 07:03 PM)

"This Temple is holy ground, a lich cannot attack here," the Priestess said. "Any danger would have to come from mortal servants of the lich."

Solena Caro touched the tip of the ferret's nose through the cage. "What would happen if we were to kill this animal and remove the jewel? Obviously that would be a shame... but it's something that has to be considered."

Posted by: Shardie Oct 28 2005, 07:24 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 11:06 AM)

'As far as Im aware, the ferret acts as a dampener to the power the Jewel lets off. As soon as the Jewel is removed, it will be like a beacon to Manaviro that the Ferret is at this Temple. The Ritual to switch this jewel from this animal to another is long lost to the ages... Perhaps if we lock it in a vault somewhere?' Maranda paused

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 07:30 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Oct 28 2005, 07:11 PM)

Solena Caro opened the cage, lifted the animal out, and stroked it.

"Poor innocent; none of this is your fault," she said to the ferret. "A vault should not be necessary on holy ground; the main thing is to keep it where only Cult faithful know about it. I will do what needs done."

She raised one long, elegant hand, and a priestess came forward with wine and food for the two of them. They sat together and conversed, discussing the situation in Morrowind, and many other things.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 07:47 PM

QUOTE(ROLF_THE_UBER @ Oct 28 2005, 04:48 PM)

Dragon met Ki'arre 's look of menace with a look of perfect calm. The old Nord man's eyes, droopy-lidded with age, were surprisingly bright blue.

First a veiled threat, then a hint of danger in Ki'arre's expression when he spoke to Loranna, and now this.

"Our business here is finished," Dragon said. "Good luck with yours."

The captured pirates were taken on board the Akarvina. Falco found himself subject to a fate his father had tried years ago to save him from - he was shackled with magical bracers, like a slave.

The Akarvina's first stop was Mournhold, to hand Falco over to the King's justice. Then it returned to Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 07:48 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 07:39 PM)

Diamond witnessed this conversation disgustedly.

"Nine, have a little dignity," she muttered

She wasn't sure if the other barmaid heard her. It would be up to the stars to determine that.

The stars determined that the barmaid did hear her. "Well, I thought he was charming." She said, a little pouty.

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 07:51 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 04:35 PM)

The stars determined that the barmaid did hear her. "Well, I thought he was charming." She said, a little pouty.

"Did you think?" ask Diamond innocently.

She expected the barmaid to miss the sarcasm and respond something like "Yes, charming..."

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 07:56 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 08:38 PM)

"Did you think?" ask Diamond innocently.

She expected the barmaid to miss the sarcasm and respond something like "Yes, charming..."

The barmaid, a dunmer in her twenties, did pick up the sarcasm. "I did; and thought that there was nothing wrong with a little flirting, sorry if it bothered you."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 07:58 PM

Loranna spent most of the trip across the Inner Sea lost in her own thoughts, trying not to dwell too much on Falco and his father. There wasn't much she could do about their situation now.

Back in Ald Raathim, Kallen welcomes his Lady home with a polite nod and the words "Welcome back my Lady; there are several matters which call for your attention ..."

Loranna smiles, following Kallen up to her study to get caught up on Ald Raathim's affairs. A passing servant could have sworn at one point to have heard Loranna's voice saying "Oh no ...", but the door to the study is thick, and the servant was not one to eavesdrop.

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 07:59 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 04:43 PM)

The barmaid, a dunmer in her twenties, did pick up the sarcasm. "I did; and thought that there was nothing wrong with a little flirting, sorry if it bothered you."

Sort of impressed, Diamond smiled. "Just...be careful. We get all types here.

"And I'm sorry too, I stepped over the line."

At the bar Diamond was known to be courteous, so perhaps she was having a bad day.

***

Marein walked off the Akarvina.

Walking into the Nymph and the Noggin, he told Diamond, "We captured Falco; he's in Mournhold. I don't know how secret that information is, so keep it quiet for now? Thanks."

***

Stormy conditions were holding up the Moonguard party.

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 08:11 PM

Ald Raathim, Mages Guild

The Guild Guide didn't even blink anymore as a robed and hooded figure appeared in a flash of light on the guide platform.
"Shornhelm was it, right?", he asked, stifling a yawn of boredom.

The figure nodded and withdrew the hood of his finely embroidered robe coloured red and blue, revealing the features of a Breton. The man fingered the fabric of the robe as if remembering where he got that robe, then looked at the guild guide. A knowing smile appeared on his lips.

"Thank you for your service. May you be so kind as to send a messenger to the castle with a request that I seek an audience with Lady Dres Loranna, if she is available? I am called Nalion."

A few coins changed their proprietor, then a messenger was sent to the castle to announce the visitor. Nalion followed slowly, taking some time to see how Ald Raathim had changed over the months he had been away. The town felt familiar to the mage, but changed as well. It still had retained its prospering air, but there was more visible to the observing eye. Ald Raathim gave of a feeling of vigilance, vigilance to a threat, a war.

Nalion's smile had vanished by the time he reached the castle gate.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 08:12 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 08:46 PM)

Sort of impressed, Diamond smiled. "Just...be careful. We get all types here.

"And I'm sorry too, I stepped over the line."

At the bar Diamond was known to be courteous, so perhaps she was having a bad day.

Marein walked off the Akarvina.

Walking into the Nymph and the Noggin, he told Diamond, "We captured Falco; he's in Mournhold. I don't know how secret that information is, so keep it quiet for now? Thanks."

The barmaid, Cidila, smiled at Diamond and said, "That's allright. And thank you for the advice. Time for my break, though." She took off her apron, and walked out from behind the bar.

***

Isidor came in behind Marein, and sat down at the bar, and grabbed a mead. He took a long sip, and closed his eyes.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 08:19 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 08:58 PM)

Nalion finds himself welcomed by the guards at the castle, who recognize him as one of the Lady's friends. In a short time he finds himself up at Loranna's study, the ashen-skinned Nord woman's face breaking out into a happy smile upon seeing him.

"Nalion dear! Good to see you again!" she says, ushering him into the study and pouring two goblets of Wayrest wine. "How have you been? Things have been crazy around here ..."

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 08:24 PM

Finding no one around, Shaka walked back to Ald Raathim. It had been a while since he had visited the Nymph and Noggin, so he headed there first.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 08:27 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 09:11 PM)

Finding no one around, Shaka walked back to Ald Raathim. It had been a while since he had been to the Nymph and Noggin, so he headed there first.

Isidor looked up from his drink, when Shaka entered. "You'll need a drink. What'll you have to drink? Something strong, I think, would help."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 08:29 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 03:06 AM)

Nalion greeted Loranna warmly and embraced her briefly.
"It feels good to be back in Ald Raathim again, Loranna, good to be among dear friends.", he answered with a smile returning to his face. Taking a goblet, he sat down on a chair, but refrained from drinking just yet.

"I am as well as I can be. Doll and I had a wonderful time together. Still, I have missed you over the last months. That must be the adventurous side of myself. It seems a lot of things have happened, here and elsewhere. Not many rumours from outside reach Lainlyn, but those that got through are troubling indeed. Civil war."

Nalion shook his head.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 08:29 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 09:14 PM)

Isidor looked up from his drink, when Shaka entered. "You'll need a drink. What'll you have to drink? Something strong, I think, would help."

Shaka felt a foreboding immediately. "That bad, Isidor? I think i'd better have a double flin, then. . . ."

He sat down across from the Nord. "It looks as if neither Anya nor Tel are here. What's wrong, Isidor?"

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 08:31 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 09:16 PM)

Isidor poured two flins, and handed one to Shaka. "Well, the Butcher of the Bay. To our great surprise, the mysterious pirate that's been going around destroying ships is ... Falco. Yes, Falco. Drink up."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 08:36 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:18 PM)

Marein nodded grimly. "No easy way to put it, Shaka. That's the fact, straight. We've captured him, though. I trust your quest went well, but we can talk about that after you've...absorbed this fascinating tidbit."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 08:36 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 09:16 PM)

Loranna smile fades. "Indeed; Indoril and Redoran declared war some months ago. We haven't been attacked directly yet but we've been involved in several battles, and Redoran scouts have been sighted in our forests. One even kidnapped Isidor's son," she says. "Everyone's been on-edge ..."

She sips her wine, looking uncomfortable. " ... Not sure how to put this so I'll just say it. Remember Falco? You probably haven't heard of the Butcher of the Inner Sea, but that was Falco. Attacked Dres ships, murdered and multilated the crew and passangers, set the ships adrift to land on our shores so we'd find them. We just ran him to the ground in Hla Oud, and turned him over to the King's justice in Mournhold."

Loranna puts her goblet of wine down, looking somewhat distraught.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 08:39 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 09:18 PM)

Shaka drained the glass in one try, not fully tasting it. His nostrils flaring from the drink, he found himself unable to speak for a moment.

"I've heard of friends who went bad before, but not this spectacularly. . . . You remember the first time we met, on Dagon Fel, Iz? Ten months ago or so. I met Falco the same day, if I remember right."

"I couldn't deal with him when he first introduced himself, a fellow Argonian dressed all in scarlet, not a coin in his pocket. Invites himself to our campfire and talks himself into a job as guide. Clown, I thought."

"He was our comrade, lost an eye for the Lady and Daruhn . . . . Made something of himself, in a twisted way. Pirate. By the Nine . . . ."

"How did it come to this? They'll execute him, of course. Quickly, if they're feeling merciful."

Shaka hung his head for a second.

Posted by: Stargazey Oct 28 2005, 08:50 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 09:26 PM)

Isidor shook his head, and finished off his mead. "I just don't know, Shaka. I just don't get it. Not just a pirate, but a villian, a sadist. I thought there was some hope for him, I really did."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 08:50 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 03:23 AM)

Nalion's gaze turned graver each sentence Loranna spoke. With his hand touching his forehead and elbow heavily leaning on the table, he sighed.
"At least, Ald Raathim has not been under attack, but I fear it still might not be safe. This civil war looks like it may last some time. Just as rebuilding from the Battle on Hogithum began to show first successes...", the mage muttered worriedly.

"And butchery?", he asked, "Falco killing innocents?"

The mage took a deep breath, then looked up. Hard wrinkles of barely hidden anger framed his brown eyes. "So he has made his choice. Now he has to live with the consequences - or die by them. Take what you want and pay for it. I cannot feel sorry for him anymore. Not after murdering - no, butchering - people and betraying those who called him friend."

Nalion took a long swallow from his cup of wine to wash down the bad taste in his mouth from hearing these news. It didn't help at all.

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 08:55 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Oct 28 2005, 05:37 PM)

Isidor shook his head, and finished off his mead. "I just don't know, Shaka. I just don't get it. Not just a pirate, but a villian, a sadist. I thought there was some hope for him, I really did."

Diamond brought them all drinks; they were obviously in need.

Marein took his and tipped it back tensely. "I don't know how much of a sadist he was. He was cold, yes. Calculated. I think his crimes were geared towards creating fear - terror. Effectively Falco was a terrorist...granted, it would take a bit of sadism to do things like that..." he shuddered.

"If there's nothing more to say, would you grace us with tales of your adventures, Shaka? Surely that's a more pleasant topic."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 08:59 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 09:37 PM)

Loranna sighs. "You didn't hear what his father had to say," she says. "Before the war broke out, Falco and Isidor went and freed Falco's father from slavery, and Falco's dad Eats-With-Claws more or less disowned Falco because he'd become a thief and a lout. Turns out Falco's parents abandoned him all those years ago in order to keep Falco out of the hands of slavers, turning themselves in in his place. And his mother died and his father ... not a kind word for his son at all, didn't care what happened to him anymore. After making all that sacrifice for him to begin with."

Loranna's tone had become heated as she spoke, betraying the depths of her own feelings on the matter. She pauses, and takes another sip of her wine.

" ... Sorry; the whole affair has left a bad taste in my mouth," she says. "Falco for all his nastiness was fighting on the side he thought was right; I'd like to think there's some hope of redemption for him yet even if his life is now forfit. He was one of us, after all - just one of us who was on the other side, this time."

Her lips were still tightly drawn together as she spoke, though.

Posted by: Axe the Brave Oct 28 2005, 09:00 PM

The Military Tower, Ald Raathim

Trason pushed opened the door to the rather large tower which was quite crowded during the last few months. He had taken the piece of parchment with a strange signature on it out of his pocket and looked for the "man in the front room". There was an old man stamping certificates behind a counter, so he figured that would be the guy.

"Excuse me sir, but what do I do with this?" Trason said as he placed the piece of paper infront of him.

"Down the hall and to the left, get some armor, get some weapons, and find something productive to do. Move on." The man said rudely.

Trason walked off without responding to the old man. He went to the room and took some armor out of the crates. All that was left was some simple iron sets and various steel weapons. As he left the room he saw a man strolling down the hallway wearing a suit of full ebony armor.

"Boy, I'd love to get my hands on some of that" Trason thought to himself.

Trason shouldn't of made that dramatic exit at Nymph, so he took all the money he had left, and made his way to the Drunken Guar, and payed for a room there.

Posted by: Aki Oct 28 2005, 09:00 PM

Reichi walked into the Nymph and Noggin, capturing the last tidbits of Marein's, Shaka and Isidor's conversation. "Yeah, surprising aint it? I still got his Saber," He said, and pulled Falco's saber from his belt, holding it by the hilt with the blade down. Normally he'd have held it in a more normal sword-weilding position, but that wasn't a smart idea in a bar.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 09:02 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 09:42 PM)

"Thanks, Marein." Shaka still was distraught. To think Isidor had made other choices, and now had a life, a family, love . . . .

"I don't pray for others as often as I should, but somehow I think I'll have to pray for Falco, even so. Even if he had free will."

"For myself, I'm not sure how much you've heard. Anya, Telera, and I took up a quest for the Dibellans. We retrieved a legendary artifact, the Skull of Corruption, from a lich, but he got away. Long story. . . . Maybe I'll tell you sometime."

"I took up the quest because their House in Cyrodiil might be able to change me. But a couple of the . . . ingredients . . . are going to be tricky."

Shaka brooded for a second. "You sure you want to hear me go on about myself? It seems unimportant compared to the war and Falco . . . ."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 09:08 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 05:49 PM)

"It's not unimportant," said Marein firmly. "It matters; you are my friend and companion, Shaka, and you have free will, and for that I place as much value on what happens to you as happens to any dozen other people. You said the 'ingredients' would be tricky. I'm hardly doing anything in this war, how can I help you?"

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 09:13 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 03:46 AM)

"You are a kind woman, and one with a big heart, still, I think differently. The choice to become what he wanted was his. There were helping hands, at least from the time he has joined this group. Yet still he has betrayed you and stolen from you and others multiple times. Then, he has made another choice, to become a pirate, and to butcher people... To which goal?"

Nalion's knuckles were white from the hard grip he had on his winecup. His voice was coarse as he spoke.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 09:17 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 09:55 PM)

"Maybe just as a sounding board for a second, Marein." Shaka also lifted a hand in greeting to Reichi, indicating a chair with the three of them.

Shaka told them briefly about the three necessary items for the metamorphosis.

"I have some ideas on the beauty part, but I'm not sure about the last ingredient, the Redguard blood. Let me ask you something: If there's a Redguard in one of the Dibellan temples, either Ald Raathim or Cyrodiil, do you think it would be wrong of me to ask him or her to donate blood? Or to pay them for it? That sounds too calculating."

"I've even thought of going to King Lhotun; a king's blood would have to be that much more powerful, right? And Lhotun is said to be a good man as well. But what would the Goddess want? How much is too much effort on my part?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 09:20 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:00 PM)

"Oh, I've felt like he's been slapping his tail in my face ever since we met," Loranna says, frowning. "And I know full well, this was his choice ..."

She frowns again; didn't she just have this conversation with Tris a while ago?

" ... Maybe we should change the subject," Loranna suggests. "Tell me, what have you been up to lately, since you last wrote me?"

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 09:23 PM

Elsewhere, a procession approached Ald Raathim...they were almost there.

The Lord wanted his daughter back from the rogue who had stolen her; The Lady wanted to get back to showering gifts on Diamond.

They were flanked by threatening and well-trained guards. The entire party was equipped with Recall to Moonguard, just in case.

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 09:32 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 04:07 AM)

"Maybe changing the topic is better...", Nalion muttered, releasing his tight grip on the cup with visible effort. "I was mostly tending to my own business. I bought the house I mentioned and spent most of my time refurnituring it. It looks pretty now, and comfortable. I don't think I'll spend that much time in there, but it's a good feeling to know that you have somewhere to go and just rest and be close to your family. It's not a big house compared to real manors, just a few rooms. For a town like Lainlyn, it is sizable, though. One of the rooms is a library now. Doll said she liked reading, well, and I'm known to spend quite some time digging into scrolls, too."
The mage took a sip from his cup. "My parents send greetings to you, by the way. They remember you fondly as you, Tris and the others rescued me from Tailas."

Posted by: Aki Oct 28 2005, 09:32 PM

"I'm sure it would be fine to ask a Redguard to donate blood," Reichi said as he sat. "Paying them, not so sure, but I'm sure a Ra'gada Dibellan priest would see the good in helping you such. Lhotun, if he'd do it I'd say go for it, but it might be overkill."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 09:36 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:19 PM)

Loranna smiles. "I'd like to see it someday, and give your parents my regards; I've found your father's tips on armor maintenance very helpful," she says. "Especially when Reichi's around."

She laughs a little, then says "Oh Dibella, you haven't heard yet ... Nalion, I'm expecting." It felt good to get off of the topic of Falco and onto happier matters.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 09:39 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Oct 28 2005, 10:19 PM)

"Maybe you're right, Reichi. I don't think Dibella would prefer a king's blood automatically . . . ." Shaka didn't sound completely sure.

"I think I'll keep that in mind, asking a priest. It sounds insulting even to talk about paying someone for it. Thanks."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 09:43 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 04:23 AM)

"You're what?", Nalion exclaimed in surprise, then, despite the past grave topics, began to laugh. A glimpse of hope in trying times. "Loranna, that's wonderful! I'm so happy for you and Slyvos! When will be the time for birth?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 09:48 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:30 PM)

"Eight months or so," Loranna says. "I kind of got excited when I missed my period last month so I checked with the diviners at the House of Dibella, and they assure me it is a baby."

She grins. "Kethiah is several months pregnant too, from what she tells me; it gives me a lot of hope for the future. Oh, hve you been down to the Nymph and Noggin yet? Kethiah and Isidor have done a wonderful job with the place. Diamond's working there as a barmaid; she's done several pieces for the tavern."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 09:54 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 04:35 AM)

"It seems that I've missed quite a few things in my absence, and not all of them are of grave nature. This is reason for hope indeed, and a reason to continue our efforts.", Nalion replied.

"I'd like to see the Nymph and Noggin. I think I'm hungry, and I don't want to trouble Razbiah. May I invite you to a small snack and some mead? That is, if you don't have any pressing her-ladyship-business?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 10:02 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 09:10 PM)

The armed procession had been spotted long before they crossed the borders into Daruhn. At the border watchtower, they were stopped by a large party of Ald Raathim's regulars.

The officer, a female Dunmer, approached them. She was not impolite; large parties of merchants were welcome. But she was not cordial either.

"May I ask who you are, and business brings you into Ald Raathim? There's war in Morrowind; such a large party can't enter under arms without authorization from the Lady."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 10:05 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:41 PM)

"Actually, I do have her-ladyship business and it is at the Nymph and Noggin," Loranna says with a grin, showing Nalion the bulliten she had been working on:

===

Let it be known that the notorious Butcher of the Inner Sea sails no more; he has been captured by the heroes of Ald Raathim.

Falco Redflash, Argonain thief and pirate, formerly banished from Ald Raathim for reasons of theft, had been terrorizing merchant ships and civilians during these times of strife. Thanks to the brave efforts of Ald Raathim's navy, this criminal was chased down and captured at Hla Oud, his crew decimated and the survivors captured. They and their captain now wait in Mournhold to face trial for their crimes, and may the Nine have mercy on their souls.

The Butcher's capture is a great victory for all of us; no more shall he threaten our trade or our peoples' lives. Again, Ald Raathim hs shown that it will not be cowed by those who would seek to strike terror in our hearts. We continue to survive and prosper in these difficult times.

Dres Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raathim

===

"What do you think?" Loranna asks Nalion.

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 10:05 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 06:49 PM)

"Well, you can tell 'The Lady' that the Lord of Moonguard is here to see her about his daughter," said the Lord imperiously.

If denied, he would likely resort to bribery or intimidation, but that was not necessary quite yet.

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 10:12 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 04:52 AM)

"Sounds good enough. The people should know who was terrorizing the Inner Sea.", Nalion said and nodded. "Let's take that down and pin it somewhere where your people can read it."
He drained his cup of wine and stood. "Shall we?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 10:13 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 09:52 PM)

No flicker of recognition went across the Dunmer's face at the mention of Moonguard. "I'm afraid you'll have to wait at the border until your visit is approved."

Imperiousness was the wrong tack to take; the officer showed no sign of telling him how exactly to go about getting approval for his visit.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 10:17 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:59 PM)

Loranna finishes her wine and rises as well, taking the bulliten with her. "Yes, let's," she says, leading the way.

"Have you heard the news about Tris's and Sir Ciel's pardon six months ago?" Loranna asks Nalion. "You just missed Tris actually I think; he was with us when we captured Falco but he had business to attend to; no rest for the Count Sternhart ..."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 10:18 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 07:00 PM)

"This is urgent business!" exclaimed the noble irritably. "Come now, what do I need to do for you to let me pass?"

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

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 10:05 PM)

"This is urgent business!" exclaimed the noble irritably. "Come now, what do I need to do for you to let me pass?"

"Raising your voice isn't going to make this go any faster," the Dunmer officer said. "I understand that times are dangerous, but this isn't traveling with a few bodyguards; more like a private army. You've come from High Rock, and there are interests in High Rock opposed to the King of Morrowind. You aren't going to be allowed to take a procession of professional soldiers into Ald Raathim; I'm surprised you weren't stopped sooner.

"Now, I can allow you to enter the city without all these people, or you can all disarm here, or you can either write or send someone to speak to Dres Loranna, the Lady of Ald Raathim. It's up to you."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 10:30 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 28 2005, 07:12 PM)

The man stood there gesturing wordlessly. "I am - you can't - she will - I demand - " he eventually managed.

Hanging his head in defeat, the Lord gestured and dropped his weapon. The guards all dropped back; the Lady was unarmed to begin with. He instructed them to wait a few days and left them money; food supplies they had.

The two of them waited to be led.

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 10:30 PM

Shaka went to the bar to get a refill, and saw Diamond working. He hadn't seen much of her since returning from his six months' stay in Argonia. Diamond looked more confident than he remembered.

"You're looking well, Diamond," said Shaka. "I can't believe what Kethiah and Isidor have done with the place. Taking up an entire block and all."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 10:37 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 05:04 AM)

Nalion was glad to hear that Ciel and Tris were pardoned by Elysana. Finally, the two had one less foe to worry about. Just as they arrived at the staircase, Nalion turned upwards, not down.

"There's someone I should fetch as well, Loranna.", he said with a wink. "Black hair, tilted eyes, sharp tongue... We'll catch up soon, hopefully."

With that, he climbed the stairs up to the watchtower and Dragon's office. Doll had told him where she probably could be found in Ald Raathim as she left Lainfair.
Having knocked at the door to Dragon's room, Nalion entered, a greeting and a smile on his lips.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 10:41 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 11:24 PM)

Loranna grins. "I'll wait for you," she promises, turning and heading down to the Nymph and Noggin. She amuses herself on the way by placing bets with herself for how long Nalion will take to finish saying hello to Doll.

At the Nymph and Noggin, Loranna first affixes her bulliten to the board, in a nice proeminent spot for all to see. Her ladyship duties complete, she looks around for familiar faces and a barmaid, feeling a bit peckish herself.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 10:43 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 10:17 PM)

If the Lord and Lady of Moonguard expected the Ald Raathim military to abandon their duties in order to show two foreigners around town, they would be waiting a long time.

"You can make an appointment to see Lady Loranna at the castle," the officer said. "There's a tavern down by the docks that caters to wealthy folks; the Nymph and Noggin. Enjoy your stay in Ald Raathim."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 10:43 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 28 2005, 07:17 PM)

"I'm feeling well, thanks," said Diamond, refilling Shaka's drink. "And you're looking tired - but yes, the place is really incredible. I'm so proud to work here; it's been wonderful to watch it expand and prosper."

"Isidor and Kethiah are a formidable team. I enjoy working under them."

She was also very proud that she had helped them along the way. Her pride was shining in her eyes.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 10:46 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:24 PM)

Dragon was seated on one corner of the massive map table, talking with his hands; Doll was seated in Dragon's chair.

The conversation died as Nalion entered, but he caught the name Falco. Clearly his name was on everyone's tongue.

"Dearest!" Doll said, leaping up to kiss him. "You're early, aren't you? You made good time."

Dragon offered Nalion his hand. "Good to see you. I hear you've bought a house."

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 10:46 PM

Shaking their heads, the Lord and Lady approached the Nymph section of the tavern...

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 10:52 PM

QUOTE(Tri @ Oct 28 2005, 11:30 PM)

"They are at that. I'm glad it's worked out this well." Shaka left a tip and returned to the others.

I'm not surprised I look tired, after we travelled through half of Tamriel, he thought, but there was no point in saying as much. Diamond too had come a long way since first arriving in Ald Raathim, much as her employers had.

And you, Shaka? he thought. You've been so wrapped up in this personal quest that you don't even know where you're headed anymore. What if you succeed, and become human?

Would that be enough at last, he wondered. And more frighteningly, what did Telera and Anya want? He had been assuming all along that they would remain together. What if they preferred him to be Argonian, preferred things as they had been?

Posted by: Tri Oct 28 2005, 11:00 PM

Diamond returned to the table with an extra drink.

"Just in case," she said with a wink. Under the tankard was the tip Shaka had left.

With Trason's sudden departure, Diamond had been helping around the kitchens - errands, not cooking. She went their now to see if she could be of use.

As she was returning to the bar, at an angle where she could glimpse the main tavern but the tavern could not see her, the doors flew open...

Posted by: Ghost~Of~You Oct 28 2005, 11:01 PM

Hullo.... How can I join?

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 11:02 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 05:33 AM)

Nalion's smile wavered for a second as he heard Falco's name, then Doll's lips touched his. He returned the kiss and wrapped his arms around her.
"So glad to see you, Doll, my dear! I couldn't wait, so I finished as fast as possible." he said, gently stroking her hair before releasing her and taking Dragon's offered hand.

"A pleasure to see you again, Dragon. Yes, I've bought a house there, a small refuge. Doll told me you took up her duties when we went on our cruise. I'd like to thank you and hope that you have a use for this."

Nalion unslung a bag at his side and produced an item wrapped in leather. As he unpacked it, a scabbard could be seen, apparently for a shortsword. The scabbard was finely crafted, with the same yellow-orange colour as the typical dwemer weapons.
"I asked my father to craft it, I hope it fits to your blade." He offered the scabbard to Dragon.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 11:05 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 10:49 PM)

Nalion's smile wavered for a second as he heard Falco's name, then Doll's lips touched his. He returned the kiss and wrapped his arms around her.
"So glad to see you, Doll, dear! "I couldn't wait, so I finished as fast as possible." he said, gently stroking her hair before releasing her and taking Dragon's offered hand.

"A pleasure to see you again, Dragon. Yes, I've bought a house there, a small refuge. Doll told me you took up her duties when we went on our cruise. I'd like to thank you and hope that you have a use for this."

Nalion unslung a bag at his side and produced an item wrapped in leather. As he unpacked it, a scabbard could be seen, apparently for a shortsword. The scabbard was finely crafted, with the same yellow-orange colour as the typical dwemer weapons.
"I asked my father to craft it, I hope it fits to your blade." He offered the scabbard to Dragon.

Dragon chuckled, low and appreciative.

"You know me too well, Nalion."

He removed his belt and slid off the plain leather scabbard which held his dwemer shortsword.

"Fits very nicely. Thank you. Your father does good work."

"Nalion, have you heard about Falco?" Doll asked. "Dragon was just telling me..."

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 11:15 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 05:52 AM)

"You're not the only one with good information, my friend.", Nalion replied teasingly before turning again to Doll.

"I heard about it." the mage replied, his smile fading. "I already paid my visit to Loranna to say hello. She told me about the recent events."
He shook his head. "I would wish he could have turned back from this path, but Falco will have to pay the price now. He has made his choice, now, it's Helseth's choice."

"Loranna is on her way to the Nymph and Noggin.", he continued. "I wanted to ask you to join for a drink and some food down there. Dragon, you as well, if you are free of duty."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 11:19 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 11:02 PM)

"Thanks for the invitation, but I've been gone overnight," Dragon said. "Which means I have people clamouring for my attention. I'll take you up on that offer of a drink before you leave again, though."

Doll slid her hand into Nalion's and smiled.

"Won't people look at the two of us when we walk in together?" she teased.

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 11:26 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 06:06 AM)

"Not if we cast a blind spell into the tavern, but when we do that, the waitress will not find the food and drink and we will starve horribly.", Nalion grinned back at her as he took her hand.
"I prefer being looked at over starving. So, let's just stun them with our presence."

"Another time then, Dragon, you'll probably know where to find me.", the Breton replied as he nodded a goodbye to Dragon. Then, he led Doll downstairs and out of the castle to the Nymph and Noggin.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 28 2005, 11:43 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Oct 28 2005, 11:13 PM)

Doll went to offer Loranna a social kiss and an embrace. Despite her teasing, it was evident she was pleased to have Nalion on her arm - showing him off, as it were.

"Dragon was just telling me about Falco, isn't it awful? I hope you're not too upset by it," Doll said.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 28 2005, 11:48 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 12:30 AM)

Loranna returns Doll's kiss and embrace. "It is awful," she agrees, "but I'm bearing it as best as I can, thank you."

It was good to see Doll and Nalion together again; the two of them complimented one another well, at least in Loranna's eyes.

"And how have you been Doll?" Loranna asks. "We're all so busy I haven't had a chance to see you much."

Posted by: syronj Oct 28 2005, 11:54 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 12:35 AM)

Shaka saw Nalion, Doll and Loranna talking, and his mood lifted somewhat. He couldn't remember the last time he had seen Nalion and Doll -- maybe at the wedding.

He rose and walked closer to them. Their body language was that of a couple of long standing.

Posted by: Nalion Oct 28 2005, 11:58 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 06:41 AM)

Nalion shot a smile towards Shaka and waved him to join them.
"Why don't you come over and join the conversation, Shaka? First round's on me!", he said, motioning a barmaid to bring whatever his friends wished for.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 29 2005, 12:00 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

The young Captain Ivenaes finished jotting down a few important tidbits that had been supplied by Grandmaster Vaan.

He turned his attention to a group that was gathering at a large table and decided to wander over and see if they would accept his company. "Greetings, my name is Ivenaes Vandal, I am under orders from Grandmaster Kratos of the Order of War to bring back news of this city, for he is rather busy with the war effort on Vvardenfell. Is it alright if I sit in on your conversations and write a few things down?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 12:07 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 28 2005, 11:35 PM)

"Nalion took me home to meet his family," Doll said. "It's beautiful country there."

She smiled. "Shaka, isn't it? How are you, I haven't seen you in a long time."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 12:13 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 12:54 AM)

"Nalion took me home to meet his family," Doll said. "It's beautiful country there."

She smiled. "Shaka, isn't it? How are you, I haven't seen you in a long time."

Shaka bowed. "Doll, Nalion, it must be at least seven months since I've seen you. It's wonderful to see you here. Thanks Nalion, I'd like to join you for that drink."

"I spent the past half-year in Black Marsh, but I consider this my true home now."

Posted by: Loranna Oct 29 2005, 12:17 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Oct 29 2005, 12:47 AM)

Loranna looks at Vandal, her mouth opening and closing for a brief second. Her nose wriggles, as if she's trying to hold back a sneeze, and her upper body begins to shake ...

... and then, she bends over, holding her sides and laughing, trying to talk in between guffaws but unable to say anything for nearly a minute.

" ... Oh dear, oh dear ..." Loranna says. "Forgive me, serjo, but surely Grandmaster Kratos didn't expect you to just walk up to people and ask if you could listen in on their conversations like that. It's ... just not done, you know."

She regains control of herself, trying to keep her voice down so as not to attract too much undue attention - a bit late. "You can tell Grandmaster Kratos," she says, "that the Lady of Ald Raathim shall write to him shortly, as we are friends and fighting on the same side. As for right now though dear ... I think it might be best if you simply wrote down that the direct approach doesn't always yield the best results."

She turns to Doll and says "Dear, have you seen the rooms upstairs? Diamond's done some truly remarkable pieces, and I know this one you and Nalion simply must see."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 12:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 12:04 AM)

Doll gave Ivenaes Vandal a look out of the sides of her eyes, then put her nose in the air and followed Loranna.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Oct 29 2005, 12:32 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 28 2005, 10:04 PM)

The young Dunmer blushed and turned back to his table. Oh my, this is not going to go over well with the Grandmaster. I shouldn't have been so straight-forward with my approach. I should learn to be more like him. Oh well, I made a mistake and I have learned from it.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 29 2005, 12:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:08 AM)

Doll gave Ivenaes Vandal a look out of the sides of her eyes, then put her nose in the air and followed Loranna.

Up in the Nymph's private rooms, Loranna looks at Doll with an incredulous expression. "I still can't believe that mer ..." she says. "Not exactly inspiring confidence in the Muatramer's efforts in Vvardenfell, that ..."

She rubs her scalp a bit, saying "Anyway, where were we?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 12:45 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Oct 29 2005, 12:28 AM)

"I wonder what sort of information he's supposed to be gathering," Doll said. "I would guess that the Muatramer don't care that Nalion's mother grows lovely eggplants in her garden, or any of our other girl talk."

She giggled, and poked Nalion. "Not that you and Shaka are girls. Shaka, I'm glad you're happy here. It's worrisome that your little garden is outside the protection of the fortifications, though. Have you thought about what you'll do if Ald Raathim is attacked?"

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 12:49 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:32 AM)

"That's a good question, Doll. I was hoping my land would be too small for them to notice, but I'm probably kidding myself. . . . I haven't formally joined Loranna's army, but I want to help defend the city when the time comes."

"I guess I'd better start planning more than a day at a time."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 12:52 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 12:36 AM)

"The army's not for everyone," Doll said. "Most heroes are too versatile to be at their full potential in a structured situation like that. Your place sounds beautiful, Shaka... it's too much to hope that an invading army wouldn't try to destroy it. Soldiers would just eat your pretty fish!"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 29 2005, 12:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:39 AM)

"I remember the last time we all tried to adopt a structured approach to combat," Loranna says dryly. "In the end ... well, it doesn't matter now, we won. And I agree with Doll; it'd be a shame to have your garden and ponds spoiled by soldiers like that."

"Maybe there's something we can do to try and protect your home," she says. "Though what, I'm not sure ..."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 12:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:39 AM)

He had to smile ruefully at that. "For what they cost me, it would be their most expensive meal ever. . . . I wonder if I should try to camouflage the place a little. I've never been comfortable with the trail to Ald Raathim being so obvious."

"Or I could find a place in town to live until the war is settled. But who knows how long that will take."

"I hope I can show you and Nalion the place someday. I'll rebuild the place as much as possible, if I lose it. But thanks for your concern too, Loranna."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 01:04 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 12:44 AM)

"Soldiers don't travel just by roads," Doll said. "We should have plenty of warning that soldiers are on the move before the reach us here, so there's no real reason for you to live in town. It's just unfortunate that something you've put so much work into is so hard to protect."

She made a gesture with her hands. "I didn't mean to upset you; who knows? Perhaps the King's armies will stop the Redorans from ever coming as far as Ald Raathim. Still, it might not be a bad idea to think of a way to conceal the place. Magic, maybe?"

Posted by: Loranna Oct 29 2005, 01:08 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:51 AM)

Loranna mutters "Hmm ..." and then, aloud, "We could talk to Slyvos about that; he's had centuries of experience in enchantments, and he knows a thing or two about keeping things hidden from sight. It couldn't hurt to ask him."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 01:11 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:51 AM)

He nodded thoughtfully. "I think I'll check into that this week, with Slyvos or the Mages Guild. Some kind of illusion magic, like placing wards on a home . . . . I wonder."

"You haven't upset me, Doll. I needed the reminder that we're in a civil war, above all the personal quests I've been taking lately. . . . I'm grateful that Ald Raathim has been spared as much as it has, but we can't count on our luck holding forever."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 01:32 AM

Wayrest: Iolanthe Gaerington

"Yes, I'm afraid he was suddenly called out of town on business," Iolanthe said. "I know he'll regret missing such a lovely party."

Her social graces had improved; her tone was brisk and businesslike, no longer dripping with sarcasm.

She excused herself, veered sharply to the left to avoid an elderly widower who had expressed interest in closer ties to the Gaerington family, and made her way into the library, where the paterfamilias was holding court about some long ago naval battle. Unfortunately for her, he saw a skirt enter the room, and immediately changed the subject to one of general interest.

Iolanthe smiled when her hand was bowed over, and distracted herself by thinking of what she would do to her brother when she saw him. Count Sternhart, indeed. After tonight and last night, the only name he deserved was Dead Meat.

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 01:40 AM

After a while, Shaka excused himself to Loranna, Doll, and Nalion, and returned downstairs. It had pleased him to see the Breton happy, and with Doll. And Shaka had certainly been woken up a little more about what civil war would mean to his land.

He hadn't seen Anya that day, so Shaka decided to walk to the Drunken Guar. He was a little surprised to realize he hadn't been there in over six months. It seemed like a locals' place to him, now that he had accepted the Nymph and Noggin as his usual public house.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 29 2005, 01:45 AM

Anya was distrubed by the feelings she had, so brutal or passionate that they nearly incapacitated her. This had never happened before as she always had a penchant for violence and fights, though not a seeker of such things. She didn't like how something like this could stir her feelings. And she didn't like the feelings that were stirred.

Anya was amusing herself having spent most of the day brooding, tapping her glass and watching her mead. So intent was she on observing the rather basic effects of the vibrations, she didn't notice Shaka enter.

Posted by: Rhedd Oct 29 2005, 01:45 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 12:19 AM)

(Wayrest:)

Herwyn Brand smiled politely and sympathetically at Iolanthe. Hers was hardly the distress that most maidens found themselves in, but he had been at enough private dinners at the Gaerington Manor, in the last six months, to know how little Tris's sister must be enjoying the party. About as much as he was, actually.

"Alas," he said, not bothering to annoy Iolanthe with the customary hand-kissing, "You arrived a moment too late. You missed a rather lively retelling of the Battle of Topal Bay."

He tried, but couldn't keep a grin from breaking on his face as he finished the sentence.

"Will we be graced with your brother's presence this evening, or have we been thrown to the wolves?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 01:51 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Oct 29 2005, 01:32 AM)

Herwyn Brand smiled politely and sympathetically at Iolanthe. Hers was hardly the distress that most maidens found themselves in, but he had been at enough private dinners at the Gaerington Manor, in the last six months, to know how little Tris's sister must be enjoying the party. About as much as he was, actually.

"Alas," he said, not bothering to annoy Iolanthe with the customary hand-kissing, "You arrived a moment too late. You missed a rather lively retelling of the Battle of Topal Bay."

He tried, but couldn't keep a grin from breaking on his face as he finished the sentence.

"Will we be graced with your brother's presence this evening, or have we been thrown to the wolves?"

"Oh I have no idea where he is," Iolanthe said, tossing her head.

"It must be important, he missed his training session this morning. He's not in the least concerned with anything else, but he likes to stay on his trainer's good side. When he does come back I plan to be red-eyed with weeping and throw myself on him out of relief that nothing bad happened since I know he wouldn't have left without telling anyone unless it was an emergency."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 01:51 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 29 2005, 02:32 AM)

As he sat down, Shaka reached a taloned finger out and tapped the glass too.

"We missed you at the Nymph, Anya. You would have liked it; Nalion's in town, for the first time in all these months. I had a good talk with Doll too."

He searched the angelic seeming Bosmer's face. "I thought we were past this a long time ago, angel. The doubts, the withdrawing . . . Hitting the flin. What's wrong, why did the lich quest upset you this much?"

Posted by: Rhedd Oct 29 2005, 01:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 12:38 AM)

Herwyn took an uncomfortable drink from his wineglass.

"I'd say that sounded like a cruel plan, but then I'm aware of how lightly Lord Gaerington ignores his appointments.

"I'm sure he's fine, though. At worst he's off saving the world, or somesuch."

Noticing a group of older women gazing disapprovingly at his conversation with Iolanthe, he asked, "Would you like to take a walk around the garden? A bit of fresh air and silence would do me good, I think."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 29 2005, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 12:38 AM)

"Not doubts, just fears."

Anya straightened up and looked at Shaka, "Several things happened when we fought the clones that I really wish didn't. When I saw her eyes, I was scared. Those weren't the eyes of a hate-filled doppleganger, but something from me. Feelings I felt, the mindset I hav- had."

"And when I saw yours die, and I wondered when it would be you..."

"I froze up. I've never collapsed before, I've never just watched. And it scared me, all of it all at once, me, you, my fear. I just needed some time alone. Not doubts, just fears."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 02:08 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Oct 29 2005, 01:44 AM)

"Yes, let's do give the old bats something to talk about, it cheers them so," Iolanthe said.

She offered her hand to one of the older women as they passed, the one who looked most like she had just bitten a green persimmon. "So glad to hear about your Andlynna's recent nuptials, we must visit her and her new husband soon."

The girl she had mentioned was fifteen, and had eloped with a servant. The family had reportedly disowned her.

"That was bad of me," Iolanthe said. "But really. They'd be happier if she'd been found dead in a ditch. I don't know how I used to survive these occasions, really I don't. You're very good at it. I should study your face, and take lessons. Although I notice you scarpered off early last night, leaving me adrift."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 02:15 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 29 2005, 02:50 AM)

Shaka felt almost relieved. He reached out and held Anya's hand. "I saw myself in my duplicate too. I wanted it to be some reversed, mirror-image monster, so I could feel righteous about killing it. Then I was sure it was my true duplicate, and saw all my worst qualities."

"Maybe the truth is somewhere in between. We fought our doppelgangers, but we're not as terrible as we like to think. At least, there's more to us than our weakest moments."

"I haven't even known you a year yet, my love, but you've grown beyond that orphan who did what she had to do, to survive. I like the woman I see now, who came from the woman you were."

"For myself dying . . . . Yeah, I hate it. Hate growing older, the changes, the compromises. I don't even know where I'll end up, if anywhere. Hopefully not Oblivion."

"But if what you needed was time alone to face the fears, I hope it helped." Shaka looked around at the Drunken Guar, with its mostly-dunmer patrons. "Funny how it all started here for a lot of us, Loranna's people. But we can't stay as we were, and the town couldn't stay the same."

"Enough pontificating. I hope you didn't mind it too much."

Posted by: Rhedd Oct 29 2005, 02:17 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 12:55 AM)

"Oh," said Herwyn. "My apologies. I had business to attend to. My work doesn't always keep respectable hours, I'm afraid."

The night air was cool, and the evening dew heightened the scent of the spring flowers that bloomed in the garden.

"I'm not sure you should study me. I suppose I'm just used to it. What of my young life wasn't spent in the College of Mages seems like it was spent at functions like this.

"It wouldn't be so bad, I think, if anyone else ever got out and saw a bit of the world. Such a tiny collective experience must be the cause of the rather boring conversation.

"Frankly, I think you do quite well. It must be much more difficult for a woman."

Oddly, Herwyn couldn't help but blush at his last comment.

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 29 2005, 02:20 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 01:02 AM)

"Enough pontificating. I hope you didn't mind it too much."

Anya smiled, and leaned closer, snuggling into Shaka. "Stop using big words, I'm just a simple, little rogue."

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

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Oct 29 2005, 03:07 AM)

Anya smiled, and leaned closer, snuggling into Shaka. "Stop using big words, I'm just a simple, little rogue."

Shaka had to smile back, as much as an Argonian could be said to imitate a human smile. "If you say so. Not so simple though." He stopped speaking for a moment, overwhelmed by the old feeling he got from Anya and Telera: let it stay like this.

But it couldn't. Shaka still had to try to find his true nature.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 02:28 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Oct 29 2005, 02:04 AM)

Iolanthe's franker-than-was-polite gaze lingered on Herwyn's blushing face longer than was polite. She looked amused, but also flattered; men flirted with her quite often, but as a rule they were flirting with her status and her brother's fortune. She herself could have been a camel without changing the equation at all.

"That sort of thing has been easier for me since I irrevokably devalued myself," Iolanthe said. "Although it turns out the irrevokable can often be overlooked, for the right price. Perhaps what I need is the right fluffy little female friend to spread cunning rumors about what a degenerate I am. Imitate my brother's tactic. How do you manage? You're handsome, and you seem to be well-heeled enough to eat regularly. I should be having to beat off rivals with a stick just to take a walk with you."

Posted by: syronj Oct 29 2005, 02:41 AM

Shaka said to Anya, "You've probably heard about Falco by now. Hell of a thing. . . . . I'm going to call it a day and walk back to the campsite. You want to come along?"

Posted by: Rhedd Oct 29 2005, 02:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:15 AM)

Herwyn gave the subject of Iolanthe's "devaluing" a wide berth. Tris had told him all about it, but he wasn't about to let on that he knew such details of her intimate life, nor was he about to feign ignorance and ask, knowing full-well how uncomfortable the answer would be.

"I think the last thing you need is a 'fluffy' friend to spread rumors about you. People are fools if they can't like you for what you are.

"As for me, I don't know... I suspect I'm a bit plainer to the female eye than you let on, and well, I don't think the average lady of high-blood swoons at a discussion of magic and politics... I never really gave it much thought, actually."

"Really," he said with a sudden smile, "I really don't think either one of us should start imitating your brother on these matters."

Posted by: Xyber02 Oct 29 2005, 02:43 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Oct 29 2005, 01:28 AM)

Shaka said to Anya, "You've probably heard about Falco by now. Hell of a thing. . . . . I'm going to call it a day and walk back to the campsite. You want to come along?"

Anya sat up, "It wasn't hard to put two and two together after talking to him so long ago."

She left some money for her drinks and stood up, "I wouldn't mind going back, I could use the exercise."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 02:51 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Oct 29 2005, 02:29 AM)

"And here we are," Iolanthe said. "I have successfully steered the conversation onto the subject of my brother's love life. You do know I'm only here because of the oldest daughter? She's very pretty, in case you hadn't noticed, pretty enough and not too stupid, but not quite smart enough to turn tail and run like a sensible creature. And so he doesn't show up. I'm at my wit's end."

Iolanthe patted Herwyn's arm. "I know you have her majesty's ear. Just mention it to her. That he's looking for someone suitable, and it would be a shame if he went out of the country and diluted his interests. Much better to marry locally, keep the fortune and the name solidly in Wayrest. Perhaps her majesty will suggest someone - firmly."

Posted by: Rhedd Oct 29 2005, 02:56 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Oct 29 2005, 01:38 AM)

Herwyn looked into Iolanthe's serious eyes, and smiled his odd, upside-down smile.

"Perhaps I'm unbothered by women because they prefer someone less easily manipulated," he said, his smile becoming wider.

"I'll be certian to mention it to Her Majesty. I'm sure she'll agree with your wise reasoning."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Oct 29 2005, 03:02 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Oct 29 2005, 02:43 AM)

"Oh, you are a darling," Iolanthe said, in a tone halfway between real affection and mockery of aristocratic manners. "Now that's finished - who shall we talk about next?"

Iolanthe was a very good friend for a spymaster to have. She knew everything, and was nice to no one.

Posted by: Loranna Oct 29 2005, 03:06 AM

With that, it's time to ...

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna