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

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 07:07 PM

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

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

===

Newcomers, we ask you to http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737&view=findpost&p=2871855 before starting up; everyone will be happier for it Also, read http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737 as soon as possible; this will give you an idea of who is in the RP.

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

===

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===

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

===

Summary for Loranna: Loranna is in Molag Mar, fighting alongside the badly-outnumbered Muatramer and King's forces. The battle, which had been hard-fought up till now, has just taken a turn for the worse with the arrival of a golden-skinned figure wielding powerful magic ...

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 4 2005, 07:10 PM

Summary

Kratos is in Molag Mar, commanding his troops and trying to hold off the Indoril and Redoran from the canton.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ivelaes was on the battlements of the second wall with his troops. He is now nowhere to be found.

Posted by: Argonians rule Nov 4 2005, 07:11 PM

Summary

Falco Redflash, male argonian rogue, is currently preparing for his trial.

Eats-With-Claws, male argonian warrior is with the armies at Molag Mar, apparently without fear of the golden-skinned arrival.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 07:13 PM

Isidor is in bed with Kethiah, celebrating their engagement.

Ingmar is in deep [censored], at the battle for Molag Mar, where a mysterious golden skinned figure has shown up.

Tyradil and Tilitalia are doing schoolwork.

Tsei's in Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 4 2005, 07:22 PM

Summary: Anya is in Molag Mar, using her keen eye and bow to provide support for the soldiers fighting against the Redorans and Indorils.

IC: Anya fired another arrow, watching a spell burst mid-air. She looked at her rapidly depleting quiver and grimaced, the extreme range she was enjoying wouldn't last long. And she was loathe to use her more powerful arrows, which included her last daedric arrow and the Arrow of Slaying.

Anya's head shot up when the voice boomed over the roar of battle. She cried breathlessly, "But, how can that be, she's dead!"

Posted by: stratigo Nov 4 2005, 07:24 PM

Summery: fighting in the 1st gap.

Alexi pulled his sword from another dead dunmer. He brought his sheild up and blocked a blow coming for the man beside of him. He knew this was already a lost battle, but all he had to do was delay them. Then Amelexia appeared and blew a hole in the wall behind them. Alexi looked at the figure and knew his position was lost. "Fall back! Fall Back to the canton!"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 4 2005, 07:27 PM

Kratos gathered himself up after the ballistas that were destroyed caught him off guard and flung him down into the plaza. He pulled a chunk of wood from his arm and quickly bandaged it. He unsheathed his sword and grabbed his shield as he made his way through the shocked archers and mages to the lower canton infantry Muatramer.

The spell that this mysterious Almalexia fired had hit the spot where Ivelaes was standing. He was now nowhere to be found.

Posted by: Aki Nov 4 2005, 07:31 PM

OOC Summary

Reichi is at the battle in Molag Mar, and gawking at the sudden appearance of what appears to be Almalexia.
---

Reichi stood defiantly, glaring at the Golden skinned figure who claimed to be Almalexia, his eyes filled with rage. This, Imposter felt like a affront to him as if some Necromancer had taken her corpse and risen it as his servant, even though Reichi wasn't much devout to the Tribunal Temple in any way. It was still infruiating to see such a respected and powerful figure of your culture who had been dead, and confirmed as such by your most trusted friends, to appear. Redoran and Indoril's Nerevarine had been a imposter, the likeyhood of these Tribunal wannabes being also imposters was good.

But, at the same time, he knew he couldn't beat her, she was too strong, and Reichi growled under his breath angrily. Reichi reluctantly fell back to better cover.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 07:33 PM

Slashes-With-Claws ordered his archers to the East side to help defend the breached wall. They were firing independently now, fast as they could. Slashes knew that the arrows would not last forever and close quarters would would soon follow.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 07:42 PM

Update

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, is undercover in Vivec, gaining information on the false Tribunal, and currently witnesses a budding riot ...

Kethiah, former assassin, is celebrating in Ald Raathim with her new fiance, Isidor.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 07:47 PM

Molag Mar

The army of the Redoran and Indoril roared with praise of their Goddess, Almalexia, leading them to victory in this holy war.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 4 2005, 07:50 PM

Summary

Dane was shell shocked from the blast. He stood up examing his wounds, and casted a quick healing spell.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 08:04 PM

Molag Mar

Loranna watches helplessly as Almalexia continues tearing into the second wall, her blasts making more holes for her followers to pour through; the Redoran and Indoril, galvanized by the appearance of the goddess and the rapidly-crumbling wall, surge forth, fighters singing battle songs and mages fortifying the warriors.

Everyone on the defender's side can feel Almalexia's sweeping gaze as it passes over them; Loranna can't repress a shudder as she feels like Almalexia is looking directly at her, her eyes hard and accusing through the helm on her head. So strong is the feeling that Loranna almost forgets what she's doing for a moment; it was hard to remember that Almalexia was supposed to be dead ...

Around Loranna, many of the defending Dunmer found themselves face to face with their beloved goddess, tearing their defenses down like paper, her potent, imperious gaze penetrating through to their cursed hearts. More than one soldier falls to his knees, whispering "Mercy, forgive me ..." and dropping their weapons.

Seeing people drop their weapons, Almalexia shows mercy; she grants those on their knees a quick, painless death, consumed by magic that snuffs their life out before they can cry out. Her followers, meanwhile, focus their attention on those who are oolish enough to stand and fight.

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 08:09 PM

Summary

Nalion, Ald Raathim, three days ago

It felt like flying. It was flying.

He soared, high above the Inner Sea, tiny waves crested with tinyer foam made their way towards Morrowind's shores. A ship was moving under him with sails spread like wings.

Wings. They flashed brightly, white and gleaming in the sunshine. "There's no war up here.", he thought. "Just the wind carrying you to faraway places, roaring in your ears. Just you and your own thoughts and white clouds to chase. It's peaceful, calming."

He flapped his wings again, seemingly effortless he soared, carried by naught but air. A twist of his tail set him spiraling upwards, climbing higher and higher. The bright sun left tiny speckles twinkling across his vision.

He smiled. Could he even smile? He pointed his beak down towards the ground and with another twist of his tail, he dove down, down, down.
The wind roared in his ears, louder and louder rising to an exhilarating crescendo, breathtaking amidst the very breath of Kyne. With his wings tightly fitted to his streamlined white body, heraced through the clouds which were leaving tiny drops of refreshening moisture on his feathers. The sea came closer, only indicated by the ship he had seen. It grew larger every second of his swoop. He could now make out a seabird swimming on a rolling wave. The waves and the foam were close now, very close. He could smell the salt, the surface was just seconds away.

"Hold on, hold on, enjoy the moment. Sunlight, water, white wings, flying, just one more second..."

He spread his wings, catching the breeze... "Now!"

Nalion woke, arms spread out, muscles tense, but with a smile on his face. He was dazzled. It took time to regain full consciousness, time he spent memorizing the dream.

"I'm here." he whispered. "I'm here.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 4 2005, 08:10 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 06:04 PM)

Kratos gathered a company of Muatramer and made way for the bridge. They would attempt to hold it as long as they could.

He stared up at the goddess from the corners of his eyes. "Blasphemy. How dare that one, trying to impersonate Mercy. I won't accept this sacrilege!" Kratos thought to himself as his troops boarded the narrow bridge and halted.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 08:10 PM

As enemy troops poured in Slashes fired the last of his flame burst arrows at the mob of troops. He felt nothing wrong with being on the opposite side as Almalexia, he had never worshiped her in the first place. "Prepare for close quarters men!" He ordered

Posted by: Argonians rule Nov 4 2005, 08:16 PM

Eats-With-Claws found himself standing in one of the gaps of the wall, swinging his axe at anything in reach. The people around him fell to their knees, retreated, or were cut down. A large warhammer cracked down on his skull, shattering his spines and knocking him to the ground. He lay among the masses of corpses, cold and inert.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 08:19 PM

Vivec

It was a full-scale riot now in the channel separating the Redoran Canton from the Foreign Canton. Mages on both sides were levitating across the causeway, raining fireballs down on one another. The Mages Guild on the Foreign side had the power, but the Redoran mages had the numbers.

Goranthir knew he couldn't join in the battle, but he stayed close. Rumors were flying about the battle at Molag Mar, and once again, he heard that the heroes of Ald Raathim were there, and many had already been killed. He prayed to Nirni it was not so.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 08:21 PM

Ingmar gazed at the godess, in fear and adoration. She was beautiful, but she scared him. He held his claymore in his hands, and followed the troop movenments, as best he could.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 4 2005, 08:27 PM

Dane rounded up a platoon of infrantry soldiers as they tried to reinforce the West Wall. Soldiers who were already there, defending, like Mr. Winston were about to fall back or they would surely lose their lives in battle.

"Do not scour Men! Stand and fight, until you've losed your wit " Dane yelled as he charged into the depth of the waves of Redoran and Indoril soldiers.

Mr. Winston parried a blow and struck into Bonemold until he met flesh.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 08:34 PM

Loranna was in the thick of the battle, trying to help Kratos's men hold the bridge; she cast her magics until she was depleted enough to need additional potions to keep her going, and her armor and robes bore the marks of battle.

The battle had seemed near-hopeless before; now, it was like a nightmare; she would heal and fortify people, only to see them sliced by three Redorans at once; she would cast shield spells on people and see them battered down within moments by the combined force of magic and swords. She couldn't keep track of where everyone was; all she could do was cast, and cast, and hope that she could keep enough people standing to hold the line - though the enemy seemed unending, and she could see wounded Redorans getting back up, healed by their mages. And they couldn't seem to do enough damage to take them down s quickly as they themselves were being taken down ...

Several Redorans actually managed to get close enough to attack her, forcing Loranna to stop healing for a moment and deal with the threats; each one who tried felt her soft hand caress them briefly, as her sword blocked theirs, and felt their life pour out of them and into her. Half a dozen soldiers met their end in this way, but each one meant another defending soldier who couldn't be healed when he needed it ...

Loranna roared in frustration, and threw her remaining energy into keeping everyone alive, while above Almalexia watched, seemingly in satisfaction, as the defenders were slowly but surely overrun ...

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 08:42 PM

Slashes, noticing that the bridge was still being held for now grabbed up his bow and fired a silver arrow at Almalexia.

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

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 09:34 PM)

Loranna roared in frustration, and threw her remaining energy into keeping everyone alive, while above Almalexia watched, seemingly in satisfaction, as the defenders were slowly but surely overrun ...

A rider on an Indoril parrapton glided next to her. He said something quickly to her about Vivec, looking worried.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 4 2005, 08:49 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 06:34 PM)

Kratos fought side by side with Loranna. He held off the attackers while she healed the Muatramer. Their blows simply glanced off of his shield and they found Kratos' own blade lodged into them.

He had killed so many that they seemed to increase in numbers. Suddenly he was toppled over and a Redoran soldier held his sword over the prone Kratos. As the enemy began to plunge his sword down, another pierced him through the stomach. Kratos rolled out of the way and got up as the dead soldier fell over.

He stood face to face with his son. He was covered in blood and his armor was burned and dented. They simply nodded to each other and fought to protect the bridge.

Posted by: Pathanias Coeur de Lion Nov 4 2005, 08:51 PM

Stalker makes his way through the crowded streets of Cyrodil toward a very disrespectable tavern. After months of coming into daily contact with large amounts of people, he has mostly lost his nervousness and feelings of distaste for crowds. He still keeps his senses alert though as this is a dangerous part of the capitol.

Entering, the tavern, he makes eye contact with the person he came here to find. The flabby, unwashed, poorly dressed Breton nods and surreptitiously points his thumb toward a back room. Stalker quietly makes his way through the crowd and eases open the door, his senses alert.

The room is dark, lit by a single candle and a figure can barely be seen in the dimness sitting in a chair at the table against the far wall. Stalker eases into the room and closes the door behind him. Too late his ears pick up the sound of breathing to the side and as he turns, a hard object crashes into his head, knocking him into blackness.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 08:53 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 09:43 PM)

A rider on an Indoril parrapton glided next to her. He said something quickly to her about Vivec, looking worried.

lmalexia turns her tusk-helmed head to listen to the rider; it's impossible to tell what her reaction was, but she turned back to the fighting when he was done and unleashed a few more lightning bolts, into the rear ranks of the defenders. Arrows bounced off of her as she did.

Finish them, she commands, raising her hands once more. With a swirl of magic, she is gone.

Loranna struggles to keep people healed and fortified, casting her strongest spells to bring those who get cut down back before death can fully claim them. She hears the lightning bolts smash into the defenders behind her and cries out, not even noticing that Almalexia has vanished yet.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 08:54 PM

seeing the bridge could not hold much longer Slashes-With-Claws turned to his men, "Hold here, keep the arrows comming untill they get in", he then jumped from the top level down to the one below, then with another jump to the bridge.

"Could you use a claw my lady?" He said to Loranna ad swung his claymore gutting a charging Redoran.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 08:59 PM

Molag Mar

Though their Goddess had left, the enormous army of Redoran and Indoril still felt her power with them. They continued charging forward towards the defenders, mercilessly.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 09:07 PM

QUOTE(Slashes-With-Claws @ Nov 4 2005, 09:54 PM)

seeing the bridge could not hold much longer Slashes-With-Claws jumped from the top level down to the one below, then with another jump to the bridge.

"Could you use a claw my lady?" He said to Loranna ad swung his claymore gutting a charging Redoran.

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 09:59 PM)

Molag Mar

Though their Goddess had left, the enormous army of Redoran and Indoril still felt her power with them. They continued charging forward towards the defenders, mercilessly.

Loranna gives Kratos and Slashes-With-Claws a grim smile, her tearstreaks gleaming on her bloodied, beleagured face. The Redoran and and Indoril were still coming though, and so she raises her hands, again, to cast her spells ...

We're not going to win this one, she thinks to herself, feeling a sudden, profound sadness and fear as she struggles on. My baby ...

No, she tells herself with fierceness. We're not falling today; I'm going to keep us all alive and that's that.

"Miserable fools, we're not going down!" she yells at the charging army, her hands glowing with magicka. "Die already!" She pours her magicka into fortifying spells to give her companions the strength to carry out her curse.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 4 2005, 09:12 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 08:59 PM)

Molag Mar

Though their Goddess had left, the enormous army of Redoran and Indoril still felt her power with them. They continued charging forward towards the defenders, mercilessly.

Almost all of the walls were taking by number. Dane who was defending the West Wall was falling back to the bridge and the rest of the men were right behind, taking down as many enemy soldiers as the could.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 09:15 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 10:07 PM)

"Miserable fools, we're not going down!" she yells at the charging army, her hands glowing with magicka. "Die already!" She pours her magicka into fortifying spells to give her companions the strength to carry out her curse.

"You are going down, Dres scum! You don't have a choice about that!" one Redoran knight laughed, charging at her. Loranna had seen him in battle before, slaying many of her allies. He was powerful warrior. But he paused just for an instant as he began to swing his sword at her. Something behind her, in the sea, was giving him pause. "B'Vek, what -?"

Posted by: Aki Nov 4 2005, 09:21 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 09:53 PM)

Finish them, she commands, raising her hands once more. With a swirl of magic, she is gone.

Reichi grined as Almalexia vanishes, turning towards the Indoril and Redoran horde with a wicked grin on his face, he raised his blades. Reichi realized they still had all their mroal from her appearance, but without her, Reichi had no cause to hesistate, he fought the horde, both blades whirling about effortly, Reichi went for shear quantity of blows, for while a good swordsman could easily block these blows, he couldn't block so many.

Reichi met the merciless charge with equal lack of mercy, overwhelming soldiers who came at him with savagery and number of blows, channeling his anger at the impersonation at the footsoldiers. Reichi gave out a bestial roar as he rammed the Dagger Of Senses into one Soldier's eyeslit and kicked him into a spear weilding comrade, the spear head protuded from the blinded man's chest. Reichi's ashen skin, white hair, and dull armor were painted crimson with his fellows, the enemies, and his own blood.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 09:23 PM

A arrow bounced off Slashes' helm. He swung his claymore in wide arc, trying to hold back the charging enemies.

Too many were bearing down on him at once, one, with an axe, got through his guard. The axe dug into the metal scales on the side of his cuirass, and the argonian scales underneath. He let out a hissing scream and tumbled backwards.

The cut was deep, almost to his innards. He grabbed a steel knife from his belt and hurled it at the attacking enemy, it bounced off his armor.

The enemy raised his axe to finish Slashes off. Slashes did the only thing he could think of, he kicked the enemy with a clawed foot cutting three shallow goudges in the bonemold armor. The mer lost his balance and stepped back. Slashes took his only chance and roled back away from his atackers.

He cast a healing spell on his bleeding side. The flesh closed, scales regrew. His armor was damaged and blood soaked, but only in the one place. Regaining his footing he charged his attacker.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 09:23 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 10:15 PM)

Loranna didn't hesitate; she whispered the words to her spell and grabbed at the knight, saying "Give me your strength ...", using her storngest Absorb Strength and Health spell on him to overpower him.

Whatever distracted him could wait just a moment longer, when she had him under control.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 09:27 PM

Ingmar fought through the throng of dying, bleeding, and suffering men. He had never seen devastation like this, and hoped he wouldn't have to again. He pretended to be tough, but he wasn't.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 09:28 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 10:23 PM)

The knight collapsed, his helm falling off as he did so, and she could see the look of shock on his face.

The Muatramer who were nearby also looked surprised, looking over her shoulder, but they tried not to be too distracted. One of them, however, actually laughed with delight as he skewered his opponent with apparent new vigor and faith.

The cry went up from the sea. "For the Emperor!"

It sounded like a thousand voices.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 09:32 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 10:28 PM)

Using her newfound strength, Loranna pushes the fallen knight into the onrushing horde, taking the moment of reprieve to steal a glance ...

"Nine be praised!" she laughs, finding the vigor to cast a fresh round of healing and fortifying spells. "They made it! They made it!"

Her tearstreaks gave her face the illusion of crying for joy - those close enough to see her face could tell the illusion wasn't far off, for her cheeks glistened.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 09:33 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 10:28 PM)

It sounded like a thousand voices.

Anyone looking east and south into the Inner Sea would see them, hundreds of boats coming onto shore, with the black silhouettes of Imperial warships behind them.

The Imperial knights leapt from their boats, fresh for battle, and joined the fight. New magic burst around them. They were freshly fortified, and their sheer numbers easily matched that of the Redoran and Indoril armies.

Posted by: stratigo Nov 4 2005, 09:34 PM

Alexi fought like he had never before. He had discarded his sheild, it was useless in this kind of fighting. The remains of his men, men he had trained since they joined up, were scattered. But Alexi fought on. Each cut he healed his own wounds. But the bridge was slowly being overrun. For every one man he killed another took his place. It would only take one lucky hit to end his life. Oddly Alexi smiled. He never felt more alive then when he was about to die. So intent on the slaughter he didn't notice the dissapearence of Amelexia, or the appearence of the imperial fleets.

Posted by: syronj Nov 4 2005, 09:36 PM

Shaka fought with the Spear, his back toward his comrades; they all had each others' backs at this point.

So much for my earlier arrogance, he thought. Thinking I had the choice to Recall from here, and that the soldiers are "rank and file". He was ashamed that he had been thinking of himself at that moment. Shaka saw the wild look in Loranna's eyes, desperation and determination both.

At least if it ends here, I didn't go out alone, bleeding in some long-abandoned family tomb, Shaka thought.

The Spear's reflective ability and his armor had kept Shaka from being burned or gutted. He could still be overwhelmed by sheer numbers, though.

He spun the Spear of Bitter Mercy, now running through an Indoril, now slashing a throat.

Seeing "Almalexia" had been a shock, but the battlemage didn't believe she was the real article; the reports of her death at the Nerevarine's hands were too reliable. Still, he could almost respect the foe even as they forced Loranna's people back. The Redorans and Indoril were fighting for their ancient traditions.

When the cry went up that the Imperial reinforcements had arrived, his heart lifted for a moment. Maybe this wasn't the day for Ald Raathim's defenders to die after all.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 09:36 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 09:33 PM)

Ingmar pushed aside a fallen Redoran, and cheered to himself as the Imperial troops fell into battle.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 09:41 PM

Slashes withdrew his blooby claymore from the chest of the Redoran who had almost killed him and spits a hist insult at him. He looked towards the fleet, victory was near. He continued to fight hard, they just had to hold a little longer.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 4 2005, 09:41 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Nov 4 2005, 09:36 PM)

Ingmar pushed aside a fallen Redoran, and cheered to himself as the Imperial troops fell into battle.

"Hurrah!"

For a brief moment, in the depth of the battle Mr. Winston was overcomed by happiness. Reinforcements from the Emperor had come, this could only mean one thing.

In the mean while Dane was striking down soldiers from left to right, it was an odd patter: Redoran then Indoril, wash and repeat But soon after seven or so soldiers had him pinned down to the ground, never the less.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 09:44 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 4 2005, 10:36 PM)

When the cry went up that the Imperial reinforcements had arrived after all, his heart lifted for a moment. Maybe this wasn't the day for Ald Raathim's defenders to die after all.

The Redoran and Indoril armies may have been shocked by the sudden appearance of the Imperial fleet, but they were far from ready to retreat. Instantly, orders went around, and parraptons launched into the air.

Lightning flashed from the parrapton's riders into several of the small boats still coming into shore. There was nowhere to run in a small boat from an air assault, and those aboard were slain quickly.

Still, the new blood pushed hard against the tired Redoran and Indoril armies, with the help of the Muatramer and Ald Raathim warriors. They were pushed back for the first time, away from the bridge.

Posted by: stratigo Nov 4 2005, 09:48 PM

Alexi raised his sword and then pulled his blade. The man in front of him wasn't Indorial or Redoran. He was Imperial. Alexi looked around at the enemy forces being driven back. "For The Emperor!" Alexi took up the cry as he charged back into the fray.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 09:54 PM

Spells and arrows crisscrossed the air above the water, as the defending forces tried to keep the parraptons from sinking too many landing boats. Still, for the first time during the whole battle, the momentuem felt like it was with the defenders. Loranna hoped it stayed that way; she could see the fallen bodies of Ald Raathim's finest as they pushed the enemy back from the bridge, people who fell before her magic could save them.

For your sakes, my friends, she thinks to herself as she fortifies the new troops and begins the new round of healing and shielding. We won't let your deaths be in vain, I promise.

The look of wild determination was still in Loranna's eyes, but she was master of herself again. One learned to keep one's nerve in battle or else one didn't see more than one battle; Loranna intended to keep the casualties of her side down to a minimum.

Posted by: Sheogorath Nov 4 2005, 10:02 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 10:54 PM)

More boats were getting ashore than not by a lot, and many of the parraptons were struck from the sky, crashing into the sea.

"Sorry we're late," murmurred one of the Imperial captain, hurling a massive fireball into the midst of the Redoran and Indoril armies. "Rather ghastly weather you have around these parts. No offense."

Posted by: Argonians rule Nov 4 2005, 10:07 PM

From the hills to the North the thriteen year-old Dunmer, Ondave surveyed the battle with interest. He honestly didn't care for either side much. The victor didn't matter to him. What did matter was the tactics, of the forces of the king. He took notes on all of their movements and smiled slyly, as he thought of what was to come in the next few years. When he saw the tide of the battle turn the Dunmer turned and left down the slope, content with the world.

Posted by: Axe the Brave Nov 4 2005, 10:08 PM

Trason had been fending off several Redoran when he heard news of the Imperials.

"Ahh the fight isnt over yet" Trason said quickly drinking a potion to restore his energy.

His left arm was severely damaged, the gash was almost bone deep, but he continued to fight.

Posted by: syronj Nov 4 2005, 10:11 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 11:02 PM)

Shaka caught a Redoran blade in the Spear's flanges, forced the sword to the side, and kicked the Redoran's leg out from under him. He speared the foe in the neck before he could rise.

The battlemage backed away and tried to catch his breath. The momentum of the battle seemed to have swung back to Molag Mar's defenders, and stayed there. The Indoril and Redoran warriors seemed to be considering a fighting retreat, though they were far from routed.

Shaka had caught glimpses of the others as they had fought like the possessed; Aki in his shapechanger's armor, which had proved vital this day in preserving his life; Anya, who had lived up to the woodelf traditions even if she had been raised largely apart from them; and many others.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 4 2005, 10:13 PM

Slyvos was angry with himself more then anything; angry that he was stuck here, in Ald Raathim, while his friends did who knows what exactly. Still, he had to hold down the fort it seemed, though it didn't look like anything was going to happen here.

He slammed his fist down onto the table, accidentally breaking it because of the strength enchantments he had on at the time.

'Damnit... now we need a new table too.'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 10:13 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Nov 4 2005, 11:02 PM)

"You don't know the half of it," Loranna mutters, giving the captain a fierce, Nordic smile. "Good to see you in any event; let's give these bastards a good send-off party, shall we?"

QUOTE(Axe the Brave @ Nov 4 2005, 11:08 PM)

Loranna's healing magic shines forth, healing those who are wounded and refreshing their energy to fight on. The Redorans and the Indoril still had to be pursuaded to give up.

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Nov 4 2005, 10:18 PM

The bridge was finally clear of enemies. Slashes pushed forward, driving the Redoran [HIST INSULT] back.

Slashes' dwarven claymore put the steel swords of the Redoran to shame, and he was getting the feal of his new, slightly damaged, armor quickly. His predator instinct helping him to dodge and hit with excelent precision.

He decapetated a Redoran and in the same stroke took an arm off another. His armor would need a good cleaning after this battle, he thought as blood splashed him.

Slashes thought he was in trouble at one point when his blade got stuck on the armor and flesh of one of his adversaries. He torqued the sword to the side, tearing the straps on the enemies cuirass. Another jerk and the sword came free, slitting his opponent open and spilling his contents.

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 10:20 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 4 2005, 10:13 PM)

"If you need wood for the fire, why don't you just gather it from outside instead of demolishing furniture?", Nalion asked as he entered Slyvos' study. He had heard the cracking of the wood, no big feat, given the noise. The mage could clearly see the worries on his friend's face. "You have a duty here as well. Though... I am worrying myself, too."

Posted by: stratigo Nov 4 2005, 10:21 PM

Alexi slit another Dunmer's throat. Then he was off the bridge and back onto the land. He grinned feircely at the men arrayed before him. His blade flicked back and forth with amazing speed, cutting and killing with every strike.

Finally he found his limbs slowing and his breath coming in ragged gasps. He fell behind the rest of the push. Suddenly he felt rejuvinated as Loranna's magic took effect. He once again launched himself into the fray.

Posted by: Axe the Brave Nov 4 2005, 10:22 PM

Trason's arm seen to be magically sewn back together. At first he had thought he had been hit by the final blow, but he noticed The Lady tossing out healing magicks like no tomorrow. He owed her one when this was all over.

He fought his way down the large slanted hallways which lead to the base of Molag Mar. He hacked and slashed his way down, and many of these soldiers, mere children of 18, fell before him. Trason never felt pity for killing a man in his life, but they had no clue who they would be facing.

A sword managed to pierce a hole right through Trason's shield, which was amazing if you think about it. He twisted the shield which made the Redoran twist in all different directions. One over head blow to the back with the hilt of the sword knocked the warrior to the ground where soon after, Trason stuck his sword in his lower abdomen.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 10:22 PM

Ingmar plowed foward through the fighters, grinning as more allies joined the fray. As he cut down a particulaly fearsome Indoril, someone swung a sword at him, hitting him in the face. The swing missed his eyes, but cut across the side of his head, down to his jaw.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 4 2005, 10:25 PM

He was clearly aggitated, which was unusual considering it was translating as rage instead of worry like it usually does.

'would you not be angry if you had to sit here while someone you love was putting their life on the line, while they were pregnant? I would think so.'

He looked down at the broken table, sighing.

'and now I gotta get that replaced.. or fixed, either one, doesn't matter.'

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 10:29 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 4 2005, 10:25 PM)

"Actually, I am wondering what Loranna was thinking when she decided to walk into the battle with child. I've fought beside her more times than I care to count and I know her skills and how she fights, but I think that this decision was probably too reckless."
Nalion shook his head slightly. "All we can do is hope that they will stand fast."

He looked at the Khajiit, then tried to change the topic.
"How are your studies proceeding?"

Posted by: Loranna Nov 4 2005, 10:35 PM

The battle at Molag Mar raged on for perhaps another hour or so, the heroes of Ald Raathim fighting alongside the Imperial forces and the Muatramer. Neither side gave or asked for any quarter, and magic and steel wove a scintilating web in the air.

However, the warrior Houses could see that the battle was not going to go their way; with the reinforcements from the Imperial Fleet, their enemy now had nuetralized their numerical advantage and had the fresher fighters to boot. Already ground had been lost and there was no sign of regaining it. Had Almalexia been there, things would have been different, but the Redoran and Indoril commanders knew staying any longer would mean but one thing - total defeat.

The retreat was met with cheers from the Imperial forces and the remaining defenders, loud and strident. A miracle had taken place; despite it all, Molag Mar had held.

It was now time to heal the wounded, and count the fallen.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 4 2005, 10:36 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 4 2005, 10:29 PM)

'at a rather nice pace, but considering how long I've existed, there is hardly a book I haven't read at least once before. But, it's always good to refresh one's memory...'

He began to give mention to the countless nights of late night study and research, along with the occasional necromancer beating that had to occur. Stupid idiots should have learned by now.

'and then there was the deal with Shaka's yurt, and getting the chameleon spells up on that... anyway, I think I've been speaking too much, how things been going on your part?'

Posted by: syronj Nov 4 2005, 10:41 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 4 2005, 11:35 PM)

The retreat was met with cheers from the Imperial forces and the remaining defenders, loud and strident. A miracle had taken place; despite it all, Molag Mar had held.

It was now time to heal the wounded, and count the fallen.

Shaka could be found helping triage the wounded, his armor splashed with blood, though relatively little of it his own. He closed the eyes of one of Ald Raathim's soldiers, too far gone to be revived.

He helped build the defenses of Ald Raathim, maybe helped build the Arena, thought the Argonian. He was willing to die for the Lady and what she stands for, though it was in this gods-forsaken place.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 4 2005, 10:43 PM

"Hurrah!" The soldiers had yelled in triumph.

"Victory had never tasted so sweet" Dane said licking at the air.

Mr. Winston knelt down to a fallen comrade. Through victory came great casualties, it seemed as if everyone beyond the 'Bridge' was either wounded or dead.

"I guess I live for another fight." He said as he prayed to the Nine.

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 10:46 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 4 2005, 10:36 PM)

"So you help in protecting the yurt? Good. I haven't seen it yet.", Nalion answered, only seemingly not recognizing the pun.

"I have busied myself with catching up with my parents lately, and buying a house in my home town. Not too large, but a small library fits in. Well, and of course, there is Doll, first and foremost." Nalion grinned, then bowed and whispered into Slyvos' ear.
"If you ever decide to go on honeymoon with Loranna after all this is over, I can recommend you a cruise on the Iliac Bay."

Posted by: Axe the Brave Nov 4 2005, 10:48 PM

Trason stood there, in an ocean of blood and bodies, thinking what he could do next. he put his sword away and walked back to where all the heroes and remaining soldiers gathered. His ebony armor, now covered in blood, was dented and almost broken.

He wondered what there was to do now.

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 4 2005, 10:48 PM

Ingmar had been healed, and he was now doing better, though he now had a long scar on his face. He was now helping out, with his meager healing skills.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 4 2005, 10:50 PM

The khajiit raised an eyebrow, before giving a little grin. Mages always had the best ideas... or the most insane ones.

'I'll keep that in mind, just in case. So, how have things been going for you and Doll anyway?'

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 11:05 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 4 2005, 10:50 PM)

"Things have been well.", Nalion answered. By his demeanour, he did not seem to want to go into details, but nontheless, he gave off an air of happiness. "We're enjoying each other's company very much."

"Judging from Loranna's state, you are doing well, too!", the mage remarked.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 4 2005, 11:09 PM

Slyvos almost forgot all about his aggravation with himself, and gave a little chuckle.

'good to hear it. And yes, very nicely! Not sure if I can handle being a father again, after all these really, really long years, but well, looks like I'm gonna have to learn all over again.'

Posted by: Nalion Nov 4 2005, 11:14 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 4 2005, 11:09 PM)

"I believe you will be very busy, but I think it's a pleasant sort of work. I'm glad that things have worked out this way for you and Loranna. Take my best wishes for your future."

Nalion touched Slyvos' shoulder reassuringly. "I fear I have to go now. The headmistress of the school asked me to help her on something. I'll see you later then. Farewell."

Nalion turned towards the door and exited, heading down and into the village.

Posted by: apocolipseLater Nov 4 2005, 11:39 PM

The door to the Nymph opens and in walks a male Suthay-Raht. One is first drawn to his eyes, first because they are rather large, but also, unlike most Khajiit, they are a light purple. He has tufted ears and has arranged his whiskers into a sort of mustache. Despite the mustache he looks young, at the end of his adolesance, and is of average height, or he would be if he did not slouch. He seems very thin, and though it is obvious he has not eaten well in some time it appears that even if he had eaten extravagantly for months he would still be thin. He wears a poncho over a black tunic with sleaves that go down to his elbows. The poncho has several rings and silver and gold chains hanging from it, and several small holes where trinkets have been removed to be pawned.

He approaches the bar, "...I... would like a cyrodillic brandy... please." He says in accented though clear imperial.

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 5 2005, 01:22 AM

A Redoran soldier near her moaned softly. She took her last throwing dagger and impaled his throat.

Anya wiped the blood off her face, and flicked her spear to somewhat clean it off. Her clothes were crimson, her own wounds flowing, mingled with the countless men she had slain. She scowled angrily, her armor laced with cuts, nicks, and holes.

She felt her arms and legs tremble. "I do not have the stamina for extended fights."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 5 2005, 02:03 AM

“Well then we’ll have to work on your stamina then,” Telera said, offering to help steady Anya and looking as if she had bathed in blood. She grinned gladly, though the effect was somewhat disquieting amidst the blood, “I’m glad to see you got through the battle. I was worried for a bit there, after I got caught up in close combat I lost track of you for a while.”

If Telera seemed entirely too happy after the battle, especially considering the appearance of Almalexia and the casualties incurred, it was mostly due to the dagger’s joyous rendition of a macabre version of 99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall of its own devising.

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 5 2005, 02:14 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 5 2005, 01:03 AM)

Anya placed her boot on the stomach of a body, and wrenched a dagger out of his sternum, replacing spent ammo. dozens of arrows survived in relatively good condition as well. She also stopped to loot necklaces, rings, other pieces of jewelry, coins, jewels, quality weapons, anything that held high value and was easy to carry, she made sure to grab.

Anya looked up as she heard Telera's voice, smiling through her scowl. She ran over and gave her a tight embrace. Stepping back, she swiped her thumb over Telera's cheek, wiping off some blood, "Oh, I'm so glad you're ok. I don't know what I'd do if you were hurt. You seem happy enough, despite this." Anya waved her hands over Molag Mar.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 5 2005, 02:36 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 5 2005, 12:14 AM)

Telera hugged Anya. She laughed, “Well, to know you’re still alive after all this, seeing you safe is enough to cheer me up from most anything. I see you’re doing well off the spoils of war.”

Telera pointed to a bracer inset with the Redoran crest laid out in volcanic glass, “Mind if I take that one?”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 5 2005, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 5 2005, 01:36 AM)

"Ah, well, they're not going to use it anymore, are they? I might as well make use of it, to the victor goes the spoils, as they say."

Anya glanced at the bracer, and tossed it to her, "Oh, sure, no problem at all. Take it's pair, too."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 5 2005, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 5 2005, 12:45 AM)

“No need to tell me twice,” Telera said, prying an ornate weapon that looked more ceremonial than practical from one of the dead and giving it a swing through the air, it turned out that for all it’s ornamentation it was well balanced if a bit gaudy. She tore a mostly clean piece from the robe of one of the fallen and wiped the blood from herself. “Seen Shaka since the fighting ended?”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 5 2005, 03:16 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 5 2005, 02:08 AM)

"Shaka? No. Last I saw he was near the walls with that storm atronach of his. But I was caught up covering us from the parraptons, and lost track of almost everyone. Trying to talk to one of those mounts is impossible, they're training makes them so single-minded. I do hope Shaka is okay as well, though I do know he can take care of himself as well as you or me."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 5 2005, 03:38 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 5 2005, 01:16 AM)

“That’s not how I remember them. The parrapton I had listened very well, she knew what I wanted to do before I did half the time, a true joy to ride and playful too. I wonder what happened to her,” Telera said, remembering riding the parrapton . “I hope Shaka is all right, I lost sight of him long before I lost track of you.”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 5 2005, 03:44 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 5 2005, 02:38 AM)

Anya sat down, toying with an exsquisite amulet, "I wasn't talking about parraptons in general, just the Redoran mounts. It seems their fanatacism rubs off everything." She stood up again and shrugged, "Or maybe I was just going about it the wrong way."

"Come on, let's go see if we can't find Shaka, and head back to the ships."

Posted by: Argonians rule Nov 5 2005, 11:22 AM

Eats-With-Claws rose, groaning from the piles of corpses. He tenatively placed his hand on his head to make sure his skull wasn't cracked open. It hurt like hell, but it seemed he had only a minor concussion. He whimpered when he discovered the spines of his crest had been completely shattered. For an argonian it was a great blow to pride. The old warrior quickly began lookeing for a helm to cover up this most embarassing situation.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Nov 5 2005, 03:02 PM

Ki'airre stumbled through the dead bodies occasionaly finishing off a reddy. Arrows had pierced his armor in a few places but that was nothing that a quick healing wouldn't fix. His armor and weapons dripped blood, mostly the enemy's. Ki'airre headed over to help the wounded.

Posted by: S'reddit Nov 5 2005, 03:18 PM

Molag Mar

The citizens of Molag Mar began emerging from hiding, helping heal the wounded, and cleaning up their home. Most of them were old or very young -- the able-bodied had joined in with the battle, and many of them had been killed. Still, the mood was joyful, celebratory.

Half of the Imperial forces began leaving shortly after victory was assured.

"Helseth took Hla Oad," the captain explained. "But he needs us to help hold it."

The rest of the Imperials assisted with healing, and fixing up what had been broken in the town. They had Molag Mar now, but with the walls torn down, it, like Hla Oad, needed to be held.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 5 2005, 03:33 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Nov 5 2005, 01:18 PM)

Kratos and Ivelaes walked the scorched battlefield. The smell of burnt flesh hung in the air and bodies lay everywhere. This was the hardest part of battle, the aftermath.

Kratos issued orders to his Muatramer and what troops remained to give any surviving Redoran and Indoril full quarter and treat there wounds as well as the defending forces. They would be prisoners of war but they weren't bloody barbarians. They deserved to live as much as any other.

Kratos had much to do and he made way, with his son, to his office. The medics that tried to stop them were ordered to go heal the ones who needed it more, the troops would come before the commanders.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 03:39 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Nov 5 2005, 03:33 PM)

Mr. Winston walked into Kratos’s office; he was surely busy issuing commands and what not, Winston waited until the office was empty. He placed his battle ragged helm in his hands. “Sir, if I’d had a word?” He said.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 5 2005, 03:43 PM

QUOTE(niceguy5 @ Nov 5 2005, 01:39 PM)

Kratos looked up from the reports he was filling out. Ivelaes stood in the corner and stared blankly at the ground. He had been cleaned up and had a new set of Muatramer armor, replacing his, old damaged, set.

"Yes, what is it?" Kratos asked him.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 03:50 PM

"Ahem," He cleared his throat "Sir, If you accept, I would like to join the Order of War. I know what circumstances would be, sir but hear me out." Mr. Winston was down on one knee.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 5 2005, 04:03 PM

QUOTE(niceguy5 @ Nov 5 2005, 01:50 PM)

"Ahem," He cleared his throat "Sir, If you accept, I would like to join the Order of War. I know what circumstances would be, sir but hear me out." Mr. Winston was down on one knee.

Kratos smiled slightly. "Pick yourself up, no one kneels to me. I'm not going to sit here and be treated like a king now." He replied.

"I am rather busy right now, you would understand. If you have wishes of joining the Muatramer fill these papers out and make your mark at the bottom. The recruitment officer will fill you in on what's needed in my stead. He is right next door." Kratos stated as he handed him the needed papers and gestured to the door.

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 04:28 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Nov 5 2005, 04:03 PM)

Kratos smiled slightly. "Pick yourself up, no one kneels to me. I'm not going to sit here and be treated like a king now." He replied.

"Yes yes, my mistake sir." Winston grabbed the forms and seated himself on a wooden crate. When he was done, he made it through the door but turned around and said “The names Mr. Winston sir.” But this time he gave him a slight nod and a wrinkled smile.

When Winston made it next door to the Recruitment Office he handed the papers to a recruitment officer; she thoroughly examined the papers and she nodded here and there. “I’ve seen you raise hell on the battlefield, it was great work for an old timer” She said jokingly “You do need to know a few things before you offically join our order, though” Mr. Winston nodded.

“Great. Read this and tell me when you’re done, I’ll be in the back of the room. Oh, and welcome to the Muatramer.” She winked.

Posted by: ROLF_THE_UBER Nov 5 2005, 05:00 PM

Ki'airre wandered towards the center of the canton looking over the bodies of the enemy for anything worth his while. He had gathered a few jewels and quite a bit of gold but nothing else until he passed the decapitated body of an indoril battle-mage. Upon his neck hung a medallion with a cresent moon on one side and a rose on the other. Ki'airre quickly swept up the medallion. "A clue, here? Hmm, the pieces are slowly falling together. Katie Rose, i will find you."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 06:44 PM

The wounded had been tended to, the dead accounted for, and the Imperial forces that were staying were already setting to the task of rebuilding Molag Mar's defenses. It was time for the heroes of Ald Raathim to make their way home, to rest after a hard-fought battle and to console those who had lost loved ones this day.

Loranna is silent for the trip back, slipping into a state of brooding ...

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 07:10 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 07:44 PM)

Shaka glanced over at Loranna sympathetically, but remained silent. Loranna deserved to be lost in thought; he himself had certainly done enough of that.

For himself, he had been relieved and gladdened to find Anya and Telera alive and whole.

If and when Loranna finally felt like talking, Shaka had had a few thoughts about the day's battle, and the larger cause. . . .

Posted by: S'reddit Nov 5 2005, 07:10 PM

The Inner Sea

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 04:44 PM)

The voyage back to Ald Raathim was considerably calmer than the voyage out. Though, when the people looked towards Vvardenfell, they saw the sky was red from fires burning in Hla Oad.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 07:28 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Nov 5 2005, 08:10 PM)

The Inner Sea
The voyage back to Ald Raathim was considerably calmer than the voyage out. Though, when the people looked towards Vvardenfell, they saw the sky was red from fires burning in Hla Oad.

Loranna looks up, and looks upon a red sky. Her tearstreaks give her face a suffering look, even as she takes a deep breath and rubs the back of her neck.

"We were just there," she comments aloud, her tone hard to read.

Posted by: stratigo Nov 5 2005, 07:33 PM

Alexi sat in silent brooding. His unit had lost many. Less than a quarter of them left. They had won, but at what price? So many dead for such a small strip of land.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 07:34 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 08:28 PM)

"The battle when Falco was captured. I missed that one, though I've heard a little about it since."

"Loranna . . . Even though Falco did terrible things this past half-year, I think I'm still going to pray for him when they execute him. One thing at least, the gods will probably judge him strictly but more fairly than we mortals. I hope he will feel some contrition before the end."

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 5 2005, 07:36 PM

Ingmar stood on the deck, staring out at the sea. He wanted to get back home, and drink, so he could forget that battle ever happened. Forget those men screaming in agony. Drink until it was all gone.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 07:39 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 08:34 PM)

Loranna is quiet for a moment, her eyes half-closed, as if to keep her thoughts from showing on her face. She is half-succesful, though Shaka can get a feeling that he's brought up something Loranna didn't want to think about much.

"He seemed ... defeated ... when we captured him," Loranna says. "I'm not sure if it was from contrition or dispair, though."

"I don't know what I think of him right now," she adds after another moment. "I don't like to see my friends die, but what could we do? We couldn't just let him go around killing civilians, trying to strangle Ald Raathim's trade off ..."

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 07:45 PM

Dane kept his arms crossed as he saw the red sky lit up. He muttered something under his breath and went inside the living quarters.

In the mean while, Mr. Winston was admiring his new armor, only soon after being ordered to clean up this mess or help burying bodies and what not. Children’s work.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 07:47 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 08:39 PM)

"Of course we couldn't. I can't believe he's almost gone either, but I'm not going to try to rescue him from Helseth's judgement. Falco had free will in the end; though I'm sorry that he didn't have a better life. I hope there will be some kind of afterlife for him, at the least. I wish I knew. . . ."

"I've been trying to think of the bigger picture lately, not just a battle here or there with the . . . what to call them, dissidents or rejectionists maybe. We kept Molag Mar, for now, but what have we really saved on Vvardenfell? Not much."

"I once told you that it didn't matter whether we sided with Barenziah or not. Now I know that it does, though my loyalty still lies with you and her."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 07:57 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 08:47 PM)

Loranna doesn't smile right away; it takes a while for her face to relax enough for that.

Why are you bringing this up now, Shaka, she wonders. Don't I have enough on my mind right now, trying to figure out why I charged into battle with a baby in my womb? Would siding against Barenziah have meant anything different, other than what side we were on today and where we marched from to get here?

She doesn't say those things aloud, though. Much as she doesn't want to think about these matters right now, she can't bring herself to be mean to her friend. He himself must have a lot on his mind, his impneding change weighing on his thoughts ...

Her face relxes and she laughs suddenly, thinking He and I are both standing here, our lives both about to change majorly, and both of us just finished fighting a massive, bloody battle for a small foothold on Vvardenfell - an important foothold maybe but a small one ...

She moves forward toward Shaka, arms outstretched to embrace him, no idea yet what she actually thought of the points Shaka brought up but not caring just yet.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 08:05 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 08:57 PM)

Her face relxes and she laughs suddenly, thinking He and I are both standing here, our lives both about to change majorly, and both of us just finished fighting a massive, bloody battle for a small foothold on Vvardenfell - an important foothold maybe but a small one ...

She moves forward toward Shaka, arms outstretched to embrace him, no idea yet what she actually thought of the points Shaka brought up but not caring just yet.

"Thanks, Loranna," he said as he returned her embrace. That's the brightest part of this day, he thought, outside of finding Tel and Anya.

He decided not to talk much more about politics this afternoon. It had been enough to break the ice around that subject.

Your choice with Barenziah was a tough one, he thought to himself. Either take her coin and her backing, or . . . what, be cast down from Lady of Daruhn in favor of some more compliant noble? What a complicated situation we're in, with this war. We'll speak of this again; or maybe some of the other adventurers won't mind speculating.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 08:08 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 09:05 PM)

" ... Shaka, mind if I ask you something?" Lorannna says after she lets Shaka go, looking a bit hesitant. " ... Have you ever trained someone before?"

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 08:14 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:08 PM)

" ... Shaka, mind if I ask you something?" Lorannna says after she lets Shaka go, looking a bit hesitant. " ... Have you ever trained someone before?"

"I have to admit that I haven't trained others in magicka, Loranna; I've always been more of a student than a teacher or leader. Even though I helped the Imperial Cult a few times, I'm not a professional soldier like Dragon either, just an amateur. What training did you have in mind?"

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 08:17 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 09:14 PM)

"My thoughts are kind of a jumble right now," Loranna admits, "but I've been thinking it might be a good idea to have more than one dedicated healer in the ranks of Ald Raathim's hereos. I know some of us know a good bit of healing magic, but there's a difference between that and being a dedicated healer."

She shrugs. "Just something that crossed my mind," she says. "What do you think?"

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 08:24 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:17 PM)

He nodded. "The battle today showed us how much we need healers, between the magical attacks and the physical. . . . I think we should probably have at least another healer. I could picture Nalion being good in that role, if he decided to live in Ald Raathim. There might be others too."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Nov 5 2005, 08:27 PM

Molag Mar

Kratos finished a report on the battle and looked over to Ivelaes. He was still leaning against the wall, arms folded, and staring at the ground.

"So when were you going to decide to tell me?" Ivelaes asked, bringing his gaze to Kratos'.

"I wanted you to find out for yourself. I couldn't bring myself to tell you face to face." Kratos replied standing up and gesturing for Ivelaes to follow him out the door.

They made their way to the top of the canton and looked over the remaining carnage on the battlefield.

Ivelaes reached into his armor and pulled out the letter from his mother. "You wanted me to find this then?" He asked, sliding the paper over to Kratos on the low wall.

Kratos picked up the letter and gentilly ran his armored fingers across it. "Love and war come with prices." He replied as he slid the letter into his cuirass.

"Father ... it is good to know I am not alone in this world anymore." Ivelaes told him as he began to head down to the battlefield to sort out the remains of his company.

"Yes ... indeed it is." Kratos muttered as he turned and headed back into his office.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 08:32 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 09:24 PM)

"Nalion's always been better at magic for taking people down rather than fixing them up, from what I've seen," Loranna says, smirking a little as she adds "even if he occasionally forgets about what magics don't work on Nordic women. I could ask him though; it couldn't hurt."

She looks like she wants to say more, but nothing comes to her lips.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 08:44 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:32 PM)

Shaka looked at her for a moment longer, wondering if Loranna meant for Shaka to become more of a healer. "I've been thinking of the possible change to Redguard so much that I haven't planned for the future after that. I'll try to give it some thought too, Loranna."

..............................................

The sight of Ald Raathim's beautiful natural harbor, expanded now, was never so welcome as to the returning veterans of Molag Mar. At the same time, Shaka tried to remember that many of those who had helped build Ald Raathim from a village to a city hadn't been so lucky.

Now he could find out if Slyvos had succeeded in creating permanent chameleon spells for Shaka's land. Perhaps in the form of stones that could be buried . . . . Shaka tried to speculate on some forms the wards might take.

A small crowd was gathering on the docks as the ships returned. More would probably gather soon.

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 08:53 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 08:44 PM)

A small crowd was gathering on the docks as the ships returned. More would probably gather soon.

Among the crowd stood Nalion, clad in common garments and a light hooded cloak hanging down his back. His arms were folded across his chest as he waited for the ships to dock. The crowd around him was whispering. Already, the rumors were spreading. Heavy fighting, against overwhelming numbers. Standing the ground against the powers of a god? The lucky ones who found that their friends were alive rejoiced, but more mourned their losses. There was a constant level of talk, mixed with cries of recognition and cries of sorrow and mourning.

As the heroes disembarked, Nalion joined them.
"You are looking terrible. I am glad to see you all alive."

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 5 2005, 08:54 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 08:44 PM)

The sight of Ald Raathim's beautiful natural harbor, expanded now, was never so welcome as to the returning veterans of Molag Mar. At the same time, Shaka tried to remember that many of those who had helped build Ald Raathim from a village to a city hadn't been so lucky.

Now he could find out if Slyvos had succeeded in creating permanent chameleon spells for Shaka's land. Perhaps in the form of stones that could be buried . . . . Shaka tried to speculate on some forms the wards might take.

A small crowd was gathering on the docks as the ships returned. More would probably gather soon.

Ingmar got off of the boat, and ignored the crowd. He made his way straight to the tavern, where he ordered a meal, and a drink. He sat in a corner booth, and with his eyes closed, he drank.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 08:57 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 09:53 PM)

Loranna smiles with mixed joy and sorrow when she sees Nalion, amid the cries of relief and mourning. There was much to be done, now that they were home, and Loranna's thoughts had begun to weigh on her mind again on the last leg of their journey.

"I feel terrible," she confirms. "I'm glad to be back, dear ..."

She tilts her head at Nalion a bit, saying "Come with us to the castle?"

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 09:04 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 08:57 PM)

Loranna smiles with mixed joy and sorrow when she sees Nalion, amid the cries of joy and sorrow. There was much to be done, now that they were home, and Loranna's thoughts had begun to weigh on her mind again on the last leg of their journey.

"I feel terrible," she confirms. "I'm glad to be back, dear ..."

She tilts her head at Nalion a bit, saying "Come with us to the castle?"

Nalion turned and walked besides Loranna, heading back to the castle. It took them some time to move through the gathered crowd. Those who stood farther away from the docks stretched their head in hope to see familiar faces, and with the fear of not seeing them.

After the party was past the docks, things went faster, and after some time to clean up and to exchange armour for clothes, they gathered at the study.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 09:13 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 10:04 PM)

Shaka found an empty guestroom and gladly left his armor and weapons. Though the blood had been cleaned off, they still needed some repairs from Longhammer's forge.

Dressed in a robe, he joined the others in Loranna's study, taking a seat on a couch.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 09:18 PM

Loranna joins her companions in the study shortly, having traded her adventuring robe and armor for a comfortable blue dress and matching shoes. Her hair has been brushed and she looks much less beleagured, at least when she pours Nalion and Shaka a glass of Wayrest wine each.

Taking a sip of her own goblet, she says " ... You missed a nightmare of a battle, Nalion dear. Up until the very end, it looked like we were going to lose. Almalexia ... whoever's posing as Almalexia showed up as we were being overrun, and blasted our defenses to smithereens. If she hadn't left when she did, well ... I don't think even the Imperial reinforcements would have been enough."

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 09:28 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:18 PM)

"Saying that I would rather have been there would be a lie.", Nalion answered, "Yet those who pose as the Tribunal are troubling me greatly. Not only their mere power, but the influence they have on the warriors makes them dangerous. I am wondering why the one who calls her Almalexia has left the battlefield. If it was on plan, we should perhaps worry. If she was so sure of victory that she letthe battle run its course, it may be a weakness. Zurin Arctus once said that 'Only in victory will the enemy be vulnerable to defeat'."

Nalion walked up and down the study, the wineglass in his hand, thinking. "We need more information on this 'Tribunal' soon. I hope Goranthir will be successful."

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 09:30 PM

Dane was late to show up at the study, when he came in he was panting and seemed exhausted. ‘People I tell you...” he muttered. The Werevamp pulled off a black cloak and threw it onto a chair, where he lounged.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 09:35 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 10:28 PM)

"She was convincing enough that if I had been a soldier on the other side, I would have believed it myself. But it's not possible, is it? I thought the reports of the Nerevarine killing her were reliable . . . ."

"I'll never forget the sound of their weapons hitting their shields, and the war cries of the Redorans and Indoril. . . . . Have you two ever thought of what we're doing here, besides surviving? Helseth means to crush the Houses, apparently. I can understand a little of how upset the warrior Houses are at this. All those millenia of tradition taken away, to make them into what, Hlaalu merchants? Would-be Imperials?"

"I hope I'm not going too far. If it were anyone other than a living legend like Barenziah, I'd have far more doubts."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 09:50 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 10:28 PM)

QUOTE(niceguy5 @ Nov 5 2005, 10:30 PM)

"Hello again Dane," Loranna says, nodding to the unlucky Imperial who had accompanied her so long ago, in Skyrim. "It's been a while since we fought together; how have you fared of late?"

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 10:35 PM)

Loranna puses to consider for a moment before answering Shaka. "She was powerful, yes," she says, "and I could feel the force of her presence from across the battlefield ... but all we saw her do was hover in the air, throw gigantic botls of lightning, and generally be awe-inspiring. Such feats are within the power of any who know how to wield sufficiently large amounts of magicka."

"As for Helseth's plans ..." she shrugs, looking a bit uncomfortable. "The Queen Mother spoke to me way back when of a Morrowind more united, not fighting against itself. I had only been a noble for a few months, was just beginning to understand what my role was; her ideas seemed to me to be good both for Ald Raathim and for House Dres, and Morrowind in general. Now ... I still believe in the idea, and I'd like to think Her Majesty wouldn't plunge us all into war unless she felt there was good reason for it. Allie and I talked about this a little, some time back."

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 5 2005, 09:54 PM

(Pie.)

Posted by: niceguy5 Nov 5 2005, 10:00 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:50 PM)

"Hello again Dane," Loranna says, nodding to the unlucky Imperial who had accompanied her so long ago, in Skyrim. "It's been a while since we fought together; how have you fared of late?"

"It has been awhile, lady." He greeted with laughter "Oh you shouldn't wonder of me, I'd worry more about your faring than mine" He said in a deep tone, nodding in acknowledgment. Though he knew what Loranna was actually thinking about.

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 10:04 PM)

Nalion nodded towards Dane and offered his hand.
"It's been a long time.", he said, smiling at him. "Had enough of the snow?"

Dane grabed Nalion's hand, Nalion was surprised by his rough fury palm. Dane of course shuddered at the thought of snow and gave a friendly frown.

OCC: Shessh I'm slow

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 10:04 PM

QUOTE(niceguy5 @ Nov 5 2005, 09:30 PM)

Nalion nodded towards Dane and offered his hand.
"It's been a long time.", he said, smiling at him. "Had enough of the snow?"

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 09:35 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 09:50 PM)

"I hope he is, too," Loranna says, frowning. "I remember how it felt when we sent spies into Red Mountain, not knowing how they were faring ..."

"As for why she left, I don't know; I myself was too caught up in the thick of battle to notice she left at first," she continues. "From what I was told though, it sounded like something came up to draw her attention elsewhere. I don't know what could have done that, though; perhaps she was confident of victory when she left after all."
"Hello again Dane," Loranna says, nodding to the unlucky Imperial who had accompanied her so long ago, in Skyrim. "It's been a while since we fought together; how have you fared of late?"
Loranna puses to consider for a moment before answering Shaka. "She was powerful, yes," she says, "and I could feel the force of her presence from across the battlefield ... but all we saw her do was hover in the air, throw gigantic botls of lightning, and generally be awe-inspiring. Such feats are within the power of any who know how to wield sufficiently large amounts of magicka."

"As for Helseth's plans ..." she shrugs, looking a bit uncomfortable. "The Queen Mother spoke to me way back when of a Morrowind more united, not fighting against itself. I had only been a noble for a few months, was just beginning to understand what my role was; her ideas seemed to me to be good both for Ald Raathim and for House Dres, and Morrowind in general. Now ... I still believe in the idea, and I'd like to think Her Majesty wouldn't plunge us all into war unless she felt there was good reason for it. Allie and I talked about this a little, some time back."

"You have made your decision and chose your side, Loranna.", the mage said. "I hoped it would not come to a war, but maybe this was uninevitable. I do hope though that Morrowind will be stable in the future. And that it prospers."

Nalion took a sip from his wine. "I cannot subdue a certain curiosity how this 'Tribunal' excercises their power. But Loranna is right. There are many inspiring people around, and using magicka in huge amounts may be difficult, but not necessarily godly. We have seen other things already."

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 10:12 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 11:04 PM)

Nalion nodded towards Dane and offered his hand.
"It's been a long time.", he said, smiling at him. "Had enough of the snow?"
"You have made your decision and chose your side, Loranna.", the mage asked. "I hoped it would not come to a war, but maybe this was uninevitable. I do hope though that Morrowind will be stable in the future. And that it prospers."

Nalion took a sip from his wine. "I cannot subdue a certain curiosity how this 'Tribunal' excercises their power. But Loranna is right. There are many inspiring people around, and using magicka in huge amounts may be difficult, but not necessarily godly. We have seen other things already."

"We had no choice at that. Say the other side wins; what can they offer the people of Morrowind, a return to past glories? Maybe reinstate slavery in the districts where it was abolished, while they're at it. No, too much has changed the land, whether in the Blue Dawn or from Red Mountain's destruction."

Shaka brooded for a second. "I suspected that we were at the end of an era, but the war is starting to drive it home for me. My place is still here, whatever happens."

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 10:21 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 10:12 PM)

"I did not put a judgement into my sentence, Shaka.", Nalion responded. "I just regret that this had to end in bloodshed. I do believe though that some change, abolishing slavery for example, is for good. However, the house structure has kept Morrowind stable for many centuries. Where other Kings in the west have warred against each other, there were no open wars between the Houses in Morrowind. Perhaps this is what Allerleirauh meant. Well, and perhaps it is the fear of the unknown as well."

"Deep down, I believe I was afraid when I walked out of that door in Tel Uvirith one and a half years ago. Afraid of what was to come. Now I am here."

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 10:32 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 11:21 PM)

"You're right, Nalion; I hadn't thought of the stability that the House system provided. . . . And it is a shame that it came to war. I'll try to keep from judging the Houses too quickly."

"It was a leap of faith for me too, coming to Ald Raathim some ten months ago. But look at the friendships I've found, and more. I'm glad that we all took chances for this."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 10:32 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 11:21 PM)

"I did not put a judgement into my sentence, Shaka.", Nalion responded. "I just regret that this had to end in bloodshed. I do believe though that some change, slavery for example, is for good. However, the house structure has kept Morrowind stable for many centuries. Where other Kings in the west have warred against each other, there were no open wars between the Houses in Morrowind. Perhaps this is what Allerleirauh meant. Well, and perhaps it is the fear of the unknown as well."

"Deep down, I believe I was afraid when I walked out of that door in Tel Uvirith one and a half years ago. Afraid of what was to come. Now I am here."

"Stable with the presence of the Morag Tong to conduct the conflict between the Houses," Loranna says. "The Houses still hated one another and maintained their own armies despite the lack of open warfare. It was less bloody, perhaps, but it didn't actually solve the problem of conflicts between nobles, just gave them a way to play out their hatreds without bringing the commoners into it."

" ... And to be honest, I don't think that did much but let a problem persist for far longer than it might have," she says slowly, "but I'm not an expert in these things ..."

"I think though I can understand how the Redorans and Indoril feel - look at how long it took for me to finally turn away from Azura," she continues, looking primarily at Nalion. "And how many people got hurt because I couldn't bring myself to see any way but the one I knew as being right. Shaka's right; no one wants to give up what they're used to. And even when it's blindingly obvious someone's in the wrong, it's difficult to make them see it - the more they stand to lose by changing their mind, the harder it is ..."

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 10:45 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 10:32 PM)

"It took us long to get you see it, Loranna. And you both are right that the decision to change oneself is one of the hardest that can be made. It's action instead of passivity. Doing instead of taking a 'rather not'-position.", Nalion said, stopping at a chair and sitting down, in contrast to his words. He thoughtfully took a sip of his wine.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 10:55 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 11:45 PM)

"Perhaps we should talk of other things than political for a while, though you're right about that, Nalion."

"I don't think you've seen my land yet; I'd be glad to show you the grounds soon. I've begun camouflaging it, and Slyvos is working on concealing the nearby stream."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 11:00 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 5 2005, 11:45 PM)

Loranna takes a similarly thoughtful sip of her wine, looking at Nalion as if wondering if he knew something he wasn't saying.

"True; very true," she concurs.

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 11:55 PM)

"A good idea, Shaka," Loranna says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see your garden and pond."

For a brief second, she wonders if what she said could be taken the wrong way; she decides it can't, but the fact that she actually stopped to think about it for a minute makes her take another swallow of her wine, to hide her thoughts.

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 11:12 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 10:55 PM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 5 2005, 11:00 PM)

Loranna takes a similarly thoughtful sip of her wine, looking at Nalion as if wondering if he knew something he wasn't saying.

"True; very true," she concurs.
"A good idea, Shaka," Loranna says, smiling a bit. "I'd love to see your garden and pond."

For a brief second, she wonders if what she said could be taken the wrong way; she decides it can't, but the fact that she actually stopped to think about it for a minute makes her take another swallow of her wine, to hide her thoughts.

Nalion nodded to Loranna, recognizing her look. The mage smiled briefly, then the smile vanished again.
"Just before we go out and have a look at what we are not supposed to see, there's one thing, Loranna. What were you thinking running to war when with a child?"

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 5 2005, 11:16 PM

Ingmar walked up to the castle, after finishing eating. He asked a servant, and in a matter of minutes, was at Loranna's study's door. "Hello," he said, with a smile, pushing open the door slightly.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 5 2005, 11:21 PM

Slyvos walked in about that time, a seemingly detached look on his face. He gave a humorless laugh, and leaned back by the wall next to the doorway.

'that's just the question I was gonna ask, nalion.'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 11:24 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 6 2005, 12:12 AM)

Loranna frowns ...

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 12:21 AM)

... and looks over at Slyvos, noting the expression on his face - one which matched Nalion's.

"I've been asking myself that on the way back ..." she says, getting up and turning to Slyvos, hearing Sheogorath's words in her mind as she looks at her husband.

"Love, we need to talk," she says quietly.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 11:25 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 12:21 AM)

Shaka was considering excusing himself at this point. It had occurred to him briefly too, at Molag Mar, but on the other hand, Loranna was so early along that she wasn't showing yet. Not really his business though . . . .

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 5 2005, 11:29 PM

His face remained the same, though his eyes showed some kind of confusion and a bit of anger, if you knew what to look for. And knowing, loranna, she'd see it very clearly...

'like I said, I was going to say the same thing. I suggest we do it away from the others, if you don't mind.'

Posted by: Nalion Nov 5 2005, 11:33 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 11:25 PM)

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 5 2005, 11:29 PM)

"I had to adress it, Loranna. The rest is up to you and Slyvos. I think it's time to visit a garden or somesuch. Shaka?"

His gaze turned towards Dane and the newly arrived Nord. "I believe the Lord and Lady do need some time alone."

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 11:38 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Nov 6 2005, 12:33 AM)

"I believe Nalion's right," Loranna says, giving everyone a quick smile before scooting them all out of the study.

Once she and Slyvos were alone, she turns to her husband, her cheeks slightly red, feeling her skin tightening on her bones. She lets out a distraught breath.

"You go first," she says to Slyvos.

Posted by: syronj Nov 5 2005, 11:41 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Nov 6 2005, 12:38 AM)

"I believe Nalion's right," Loranna says, giving everyone a quick smile before scooting them all out of the study.

Shaka thanked Loranna for the Wayrest wine as they were ushered out. Turning to Nalion, he said: "If you would like to see my land, now's as good a day as any. I can pick up my gear from the guestroom."

Soon Shaka and Nalion were walking along the trail to the campsite. Shaka pointed out the first daedric letters blazed onto a few trees that indicated the location of the trail, which was already filling in with bamboo in a number of places.

Shaka had a good afternoon, showing Nalion around the gardens as well as the improvements he had made to the pools. It served to distract both of them from the complexities of the war and Loranna's situation.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 5 2005, 11:41 PM

Slyvos glanced around a bit to make sure no one was eavesdropping, then put his gaze upon Loranna again.

'what were you thinking, going into that fight? you could have been killed... or the child could have.'

If you looked, bits and pieces of the table slyvos had broken could still be seen on the floor.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 5 2005, 11:53 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 12:41 AM)

Loranna leans down to pick up a piece of the table Slyvos had broken earlier, having guessed as to why there was a new side table in her study. Carefully, she drops the shattered wood in the waste basket.

"I've been asking myself that the whole trip back," she says, her tone fraught with multiple emotions. "The same thought ocured to me in the heat of battle."

Damnit, she thinks to herself, I hurt him - and if I'd been thinking I'd have realized it too. Loranna was very familiar with not being able to fully justify actions taken before in the light of cold reflection; her ears burned as she thought about what Slyvos must have been feeling, going through, while she was fighting.

"The moment I heard the Queen needed people for this, my first thought was that they'd need me," she tells Slyvos, her eyes looking more at his feet than his face. "Nothing else came to mind, just that they'd need a healer for this fight. That we'd need a healer, my friends going into battle."

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 5 2005, 11:54 PM

Ingmar made his way back to the Nymph and Noggin, and sat in a chair, his feet up, contemplating.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 5 2005, 11:59 PM

Slyvos held one of his hands to his head, rubbing his temples to try and get rid of the stress; it wasn't working in the least.

'did you ever stop to think that maybe for once you had to look out for yourself over others? Or at the very least how I would react to this?'

Sly always had the tendancy to overract when it came to things... however this time, he wasn't just overracting. He was right.

'you can't just run around saving the world anymore now... you're going to be a mother, and that gives you a responsibility if not to yourself, then for the baby... even if it isn't born yet. Take it from someone that's lost a family before, loranna. It's not good on the sanity.'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 12:07 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 12:59 AM)

Loranna covers her face with her hands, muttering "Damnit love, I'm asking people to risk their lives for me. People I know, people I see every day; I just can't tell people to go off into battle and sit at home while they take all the risks ...!"

She was crying; her tears could be seen glistening between her fingers.

"I won't be the helpless little monster sitting on the palaquin again, watching people get killed because of me," she says, more hotly than she intended to. "I won't." She was shaking now; she makes an effort to control herself.

" ... I'm sorry; I know, I shouldn't put you through this ..." she says, her eyes still tearful.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 12:17 AM

'a monster? is that what you thought of yourself back then? you were a person corrupted with far too much power and far too little time to learn control and patience, that's all. Can't call yourself a monster when your intentions were good.'

He sighed, looking down as well now. It was hard to talk like this to his wife, but well, what else could he do?

'It's alright that you wanted to help loranna, but there are other ways you can go about it without being in the fray and risking the life of yourself and our child.'

And then, he let a little tear of his own escape.

'don't compare yourself as you are now to what you did in the past, love. I did and well you saw what happened to me for a while there... oh did I bet sheogorath was enjoying watching us suffer then.'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 12:24 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 01:17 AM)

As I look down from my golden path,
Whom do I spy in the bubbling bath?
She’s grown a flower what was but a bud
From the sea to the ashfields of blood
A Goddess behind thee, and a Goddess ahead,
Death crawls behind, and before thee doth tred,
I tell thee the truth of which thou dost fear
Thou willst bury two thou love most dear

Slyvos could not have realized he just said the wrong thing; Loranna looks like she was struck by a thunderbolt.

"Oh Dibella ... I'm going to bury you and our baby ..." she whispers, her tears flowing down her cheeks. She sits down and sobs "I'm already doing it; Slyvos, forgive me please. I'm a stupid, crazy barmaid who has to be the hero no matter what ..."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 12:30 AM

Slyvos leaned in closer to loranna, worried even more now, though this time it wasn't showing itself as anger.

'what are you talking about? why would you bury... what made you think anything like that?'

He put a hand on her shoulders and lifted her head up by the chin to look him square in the eyes.

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 12:34 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 01:30 AM)

"He came to me on the voyage to Molag Mar," Loranna says, her eyes still full of tears. "No one else heard his voice but I did - he stood right by me and told me I'd bury two I love most dear."

She hugs Slyvos tightly. "Oh please ... please tell me I haven't killed our baby ..." she begs. "I'd go mad as my mother if anything happened ..." Finally, the fear and shame of having almost gotten her unborn child killed, of having tortured her husband with her need to run off and save the world, came pouring out of her, and she weeps, seeking solace in Slyvos's arms.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 12:36 AM

He didn't say much, just a few whispers as he held her in his arms. It was gonna be a long time before they got over this one....

'it'll be okay... we've defied the gods before, we'll do it again... just don't risk yourself so much.'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 12:48 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 01:36 AM)

Loranna glares for a bit, saying "Don't risk myself so much ... sooner or later we're all going to be stuck in prison, I keep waiting for the Redorns to try making a move against us here, every time I hear there's bandits threatening our roads the first thought in my mind is "I should go take care of this," as I crack my knuckles and think about which spells I'm going to use on them ..."

She stops, sighs, and rests her head on Slyvos's shoulder. "I'm still mad; I can't just be the noblewoman of Ald Raathim," she says. "I have to be more; I have to be the healer, I have to be the mega alchemist, I have to be the mistress of absorb and frost magics, I have to know how to fight and defend my city, I have to be the woman who leads from the trenches, and I'm not quite all those things yet but I'll kill myself trying - and that's not even counting becoming a mother soon."

She looks at Slyvos helplessly, her hair falling into her face.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 01:04 AM

he had a rather horrid thought right about now, but it was something everyone had to face some day...

'even if you didn't have responsibilities, you can't keep that up forever. And since you do have responsibilities...'

He cut himself off there, changing his line of dialogue as he took a hold of loranna's hair gently and put it out of the way of her face.

'you're trying to overcompensate for what you did in the past, that much I can realize... and understand. well, that's what it looks like from my perspective. Take it easy... you can't do everything and you never will be able to, so please, for all our sake's, stop putting yourself in danger to try and prove that fact wrong...'

His eyes were a bit moist, though he held in the tears. Then began the almost silent chant he began to whisper to himself.

'can't lose her, can't lose her...'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 01:24 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 02:04 AM)

Loranna loved Slyvos; she would do anything for him, so she told herself. Now, he was asking her to not rush off on the big adventures when they loomed ahead, for his sake, for hers, and for their unborn child's.

It was not a large thing for a husband to ask of his wife. It was, in fact, what any sane husband would ask, and any normal wife would happily acceed to. And it took a lot of effort for Loranna to swallow and nod to Slyvos, because she loved him and she wasn't going to lie to her husband, not after having hurt him with her thoughtlessness.

So she didn't just tell him what he wanted to hear; she asked herself soberly Can you slow down for the sake of your husband and baby? And when she put it that way, instead of Are you some helpless barmaid still? or Are you going to be the damsel in distress? it was easier for her to nod.

" ... The group still is going to need a competant healer though," she says. "Not just someone who knows how to heal their own cuts; someone who can keep the whole party alive when the hordes are overrunning them."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 01:34 AM

'that's what alchemy is for loranna... though I get your point. And I just got an idea... if you are willing to give it a shot.'

He gave a little smile, or at least forced one out. He just hoped, she'd go along with what he was gonna suggest...

'perhaps, you should start trying to teach others to do the things you can do; healing, alchemy, that sort of thing. After all, having just one main healer is a bad thing in the long run...'

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 01:38 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 02:34 AM)

I was thinking that already, Loranna thinks to herself.

"That sounds like a good idea; we should ask for volunteers, I can devote my time to training them instead of galavanting," she says aloud. "Only question now is who?"

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 01:49 AM

'I don't know... maybe we could ask someone at the Temple? it's always easier if we could get someone that already knows the basics of spellcasting, trust me on this one.'

At least they weren't agonizing over something that happened in the past like usual this time...

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 01:54 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 02:49 AM)

'I don't know... maybe we could ask someone at the Temple? it's always easier if we could get someone that already knows the basics of spellcasting, trust me on this one.'

At least they were agonizing over something that happened in the past like usual this time...

Loranna frowns. "We'll see," she says. "We need someone with more than just spellcasting knowhow - we need someone who can keep their head come armies or armageddeon, and keep the healing spells coming. But we can worry about that in a bit. Right now ..."

She sighs. " ... Eh, I feel like cromberries squashed underfoot; I just want to relax for a bit."

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 01:57 AM

In the early evening, Nalion had long since departed, and Shaka was walking through his property, trying to picture what it would look like when the chameleon illusion was in place. Probably a rocky ground instead of the inviting stream and waterfall . . . .

He was pleased to see he wasn't alone; Telera was swimming in the stream. Shaka sat on the bank and waited until she decided to take a breather.

"I'll have to ask Slyvos if we can turn the illusion off for individuals," he told her. "I still want you and Anya to be able to use the grounds."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Nov 6 2005, 01:58 AM

Slyvos let his shoulders slump a bit, as if a burden was taken off his shoulders for now. But, this wasn't a problem that was going to go away any time soon it seemed...

'well, you had a rough day, I suggest sleep... amongst other things you might be able to think of.'

Posted by: Pathanias Coeur de Lion Nov 6 2005, 02:05 AM

Stalker wakes up disoriented, he feels the effects of drugs making his body lethergic and slow. Looking around he sees that he is in his treehouse in the mangrives near Ald Raathim.

"Wha...."

Rising unsteadily, he sees his equipment neatly stacked and his pear leaning against the wall. Tied to the spear is a rolled sheaf of paper. Stalker unties and reads the paper.

"The one you seek will contact you, when HE decides. Do not seek him anymore or you wont wake up next time."

Stalker sadly shakes his head. Wondering what has happened in his absence during the war, he unsteadily makes his way toward Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 02:06 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 5 2005, 11:57 PM)

“Hehe, but it was fun tripping over the garden,” Telera said merrily, before twisting back beneath the water. She came back up and floated near the bank where Shaka sat. “It would be much nicer if we could see through the illusion more easily.”

Posted by: Loranna Nov 6 2005, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Nov 6 2005, 02:58 AM)

"I love you, Slyvos," Loranna says, shaking her head a bit. "Even when you're exasperating me with the understatements of the age."

She chuckles a little; she was at least not crying like she had been a few moments ago. She intended to go talk to the priestesses at the House of Dibella to make sure her baby was still all right, however, and though she felt better, she still couldn't shake the feeling that she'd be the death of her husband yet ...

"Let's go," she says, taking Slyvos's hand. A night in their bed would do her much good right now.

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 02:13 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 03:06 AM)

Shaka took off his tunic and pants while still talking. "I'll find out from him how to turn it off for you. Anything to make you stay forever," he said wryly, as he floated near Telera.

He was silent a moment, looking up at the sky near dusk. "I'm surprised we were able to wash that blood off. Those crazy Redorans and Indoril . . . or maybe not crazy enough."

Shaka turned to look at Telera. "I could use a hug, beautiful."

Posted by: Pathanias Coeur de Lion Nov 6 2005, 02:24 AM

PIE

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 02:26 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 12:13 AM)

“And how could I refuse that,” Telera grinned, hugging Shaka. “I’ll stay here as long as you’ll let me.”

Looking at him askew she added, “And just how would the Redoran and Indoril being crazier be a good thing?”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 02:28 AM

Telera and Shaka could here a splash behind them. Moments later Anya surfaced and pulled her hair out of her face. She laid back and slowly floated around the stream. "Heh, I can see through the illusion just fine." she said, winking at them.

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 02:35 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 03:26 AM)

"Don't mind me, I'm talking off the top of my head," he said. "The thing of it is, they weren't really crazy at Molag Mar. They were fighting with generations of warriors behind them, dying for their faith and their Houses . . . their tribes."

"That was the closest we've come to buying the farm, Tel. I guess it got me thinking . . . but I've already gone over a lot of it with Loranna and Nalion today, so I won't bore you with it right now."

Shaka reached over and smoothed the dark brown hair back from Tel's face. "If and when I finally get the word that I can travel to Cyrodiil and change to human, I'm coming back to you and Anya."

" I know, she's the hinge of this door we have -- you one one side and me on the other. But you know how it is for me and you also. You're like the woodelf, you keep me on my toes."

Hearing a splash, Shaka looked back to see Anya. He reached out and gathered her into their embrace also.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 02:47 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 12:28 AM)

“Maybe I just wasn’t watching where I was going.” Telera shrugged.

“How are you on your toes Shaka? We’re floating in the water,” Telera said, ducking out of the embrace into the open water. “Anyone up for a game? Or are we still tuckered out from the battle Anya?”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 02:54 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 01:47 AM)

“Maybe I just wasn’t watching where I was going.” Telera shrugged.

“How are you on your toes Shaka? We’re floating in the water,” Telera said, ducking out of the embrace into the open water. “Anyone up for a game? OR are we still tuckered out from the battle Anya?”

Anya agilely twisted in the water, circling Telera, "Aha, I do believe I may have killed more men than you." Anya waved her hand, splashing some water at her, "What did you have in mind?"

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 03:01 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 12:54 AM)

Anya agilely twisted in the water, circling Telera, "Aha, I do believe I may have killed more men than you." Anya waved her hand, splashing some water at her, "What did you have in mind?"

“Nah Anya, you wasted time keeping count,” Telera said, “Just a simple game, you run I chase, then I run you chase, in turn.”

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 03:03 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 04:01 AM)

“Nah Anya, you wasted time keeping count,” Telera said, “Just a simple game, you run I chase, then I run you chase, in turn.”

"Am I the official? I already know I'm not the prize," said Shaka.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 03:04 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 01:03 AM)

"Am I the official? I already know I'm not the prize," said Shaka.

“You chase second,” Telera said.

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 03:06 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 02:03 AM)

"Am I the official? I already know I'm not the prize," said Shaka.

"Why would you even be the prize? When I can have you whenever I want." Anya winked at Shaka.

"Let me know if I'm going to fast." Anya cast swift swim and water breathing, quickly diving under water.

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 03:14 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 04:06 AM)

Shaka dove and cast swift swim; he already could hold his breath longer than mammals. The brown and white woodelf flashed ahead of him, fish turning aside from the game.

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 03:27 AM

Maranda had been away on a Mission for Dibella for the past few days. Retrieving the sacred cup of Eatinghoard the III, a not so famous Nordic chieftan, but a noble donator to the Temple of Dibella from the Daedric Ruins of Metrengard, deep in the Velothi Mountians. Due to this, she was completly oblivious of the events of the past few days. After dropping the cup off at the temple, she decided to cool off with a walk through the forest. Strangely she saw a yurt in the distance, and decided to approch, perhaps this was a redorian camp. She carefully approched, but relaxed when she saw Anya and Tel and Shaka bathing in a springs,

"Hail!' she said happily

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 03:29 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 04:27 AM)

Shaka raised a hand in greeting to Maranda; someone swimming nearby might hear him mutter, "Thank you, O Gods" before he dove under the water.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 03:33 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 01:29 AM)

Shaka raised a hand in greeting to Maranda; someone swimming nearby might hear him mutter, "Thank you, O Gods" before he dove under the water.

“Hail,” Telera said casting waterwalk and sprinting along the surface of the water to catch up to Anya and Shaka. Coming over Shaka she leapt into the air and dispelled her waterwalk spell to dive into the water that was suddenly liquid again, straight into Shaka. “Your turn.” She said through a mouthful of bubbles. She hared away to the surface and greeted Maranda again, “How was your trip Maranda? To the mountains, right?”

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 03:37 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 07:33 PM)

'Boring, as usual' Maranda said watching the game on the water, and sitting on a rock, 'Managed to get a diamond,' she threw it into the pond, as if it was a worthless stone, 'Retrieved it from a dead Dremora, I still wonder how they get these things, but meh' she looked at the three, 'so what in Dibella's name are you doing in there? And has anything of any intrest happened recently?'

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 03:39 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 04:33 AM)

Shaka came up to the surface, and shook his head, smiling. "That was brilliant, Tel."

To catch Anya, who had long outdistanced him, he not only cast water walk but Feet of Notorgo. The water blurred by under him until he saw the lithe outline of the rogue. Shaka dove under and reached for an ankle. . . .

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 03:46 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 02:37 AM)

Anya surfaced near Maranda, holding the diamond in her hand, "I'm enjoying some relaxation. And you really shouldn't throw this away, it's worth a decent coin. And you missed a rather desperate battle. As Telera enjoys pointing out, it lasted longer than I would liked."

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 02:39 AM)

Anya ducked back underwater, and twirled out of Shaka's reach. She floated underwater a bit, smiling coyly as she waved her finger at him. She started swimming again, when she felt a tug on her ankle. She turned around, startled, "No fair!"

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 03:50 AM

“Playing,” Telera said. “You missed a big battle at Molag Mar. Almalexia was even there! A startling event with her being dead and all.”

“Of course it was,” Telera said, preening at Shaka's compliment.

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 07:50 PM)

“Playing,” Telera said. “You missed a big battle at Molag Mar. Almalexia was even there! A startling event with her being dead and all.”

“Of course it was,” Telera said, preening, at Shaka's compliment.

'I see, a false heritic, is it? Was the fiend slain?' she put her hand in the bag at her side and threw a ruby into the water, 'Nether the less, I am sad I missed the battle, having to go hunt for a stupid cup of little significance is annoying. Who won? And how is the water?'

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 03:59 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 04:55 AM)

Rising from the stream, Shaka picked up his clothes. "It's fine, cold enough to be invigorating without being too cold. I'm going to get some towels and robes ready if anyone wants them. Maranda, it's good to see you here."

Shaka walked to the yurt and straightened it up for the visitors.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 04:04 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 01:55 AM)

“Nah, she disappeared before she could be struck by a stray arrow or something,” Telera said, “She was absolutely drop dead gorgeous though, wonder if she could be talked into-never mind.”

Telera added, “The water is refreshing. Would you care to join us for a swim and a chat?”

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 04:05 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 08:04 PM)

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 07:59 PM)

'well since its just us girls now' she took off her robes and jumped into the pool, and began to swim, 'It IS nice in here' she said happily

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 04:11 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 03:04 AM)

Anya mockingly glared, "Don't you be getting promiscuous on me."

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 03:05 AM)

'well since its just us girls now' she took off her robes and jumped into the pool, and began to swim, 'It IS nice in here' she said happily

Anya splashed Maranda a little bit, "Isn't it though? It looks like you haven't had a chance to relax in a long while."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 04:16 AM

“It’s a very nice place, relaxing and far enough off the beaten path for some quiet if you want it,” Telera said. “So what brings you out here, cut through on your way back to the House?”

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 02:11 AM)

Anya mockingly glared, "Don't you be getting promiscuous on me."

“What could have given you that idea?” Telera said, turning to Anya with a completely innocent look on her face.

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 04:23 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 08:16 PM)

“It’s a very nice place, relaxing and far enough off the beaten path for some quiet if you want it,” Telera said. “So what brings you out here, cut through on your way back to the House?”

“What could have given you that idea?” Telera said, turning to Anya with a completely innocent look on her face.

'What am I doing here? I was just walking through the forest, looking at the trees. I thought that this was an enemy position so I decided to investigate. It seems not,' she stoped, spotting Anya, swum over to her once more, 'Its been a while since Ive kissed you, come here and I'll do it again!' she grinned evily, 'Join Dibella, you'll love it' she said to her, jokingly. She stopped before she reached Anya, 'So Shaka has decided not to go through with that silly transformation, I see, Im glad for him,' she said, not knowing anything about the events of what had happened after he returned from sentinel

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 04:28 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 02:23 AM)

“He’s going through with it, or at least he was talking about a time 'after he had returned from Cyrodiil as a human' earlier.” Telera said, her voice and face were blank, whether she agreed with this decision or not was unclear. “He was delayed upon his return from Hammerfell by news of the armies approaching Molag Mar, naturally he had to help as he could so he joined in the defense. We’ve only recently come back from Molag Mar.”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 04:37 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 03:28 AM)

Anya didn't disapprove of Shaka's decision, she was more worried she caused this more than anything, "I don't know if he has everything ready though, I think he just has the blood of the two races..."

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 04:42 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 08:37 PM)

'I see' She said, swimming over to her, and kissing her on the lips, 'nice. So what plans does Telera have? You realize the potion might not last forever, it most proberly wont... what plans do you have for the future, if you return to your previous self?'

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 04:51 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 02:42 AM)

“I haven’t really thought about it too much,” She started, biting her lip, “I don’t think Shaka would be able to deal with it if I changed back.” Glancing over at Anya she continued, “I hope Anya and myself could continue our relationship and other than that… I think I’d just try to hold onto what I have now.”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 04:56 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 03:42 AM)

Anya smiled, "Do you kiss any pretty girl you meet or am I one of the lucky ones?"

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 03:51 AM)

"You already played this trick, remember?" Anya turned to look at Telera, "Back in the baths. And you got the best answers we have right now, from both me and Shaka."

Posted by: Shardie Nov 6 2005, 05:02 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 08:56 PM)

Anya smiled, "Do you kiss any pretty girl you meet or am I one of the lucky ones?"
"You already played this trick, remember?" Anya turned to look at Telera, "Back in the baths. And you got the best answers we have right now, from both me and Shaka."

Maranda smiled to Anya's comment, 'Just the cute ones, and the ones that are not guys' she winked to Telera, 'I have disturbed you far to much, I might return to the temple and let you discuss things alone,' she smiled, pulling herself out of the water, getting dressed, and then wandering into the forest, 'See you later, guys' she said happily

Posted by: Teleran Nov 6 2005, 05:06 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Nov 6 2005, 02:56 AM)

“I know, but …” Telera looked abashed, “When I did that I knew that nothing had really changed. It was safe, if everything looked like it was going to pieces, a wave of my hands and things were back as they were. If it actually happens, I’m frightened that it will be like with Shai, an event devoid of horror, just things slipping away from me again.”

QUOTE(Shardie @ Nov 6 2005, 03:02 AM)

“I don’t count as a cute one then?” Telera said with mock concern. She waved to Maranda, “Good luck with your, ah, conversions is it?”

Posted by: Xyber02 Nov 6 2005, 05:10 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 6 2005, 04:06 AM)

"Telera, when was the last time things happened so subtely with me?I can't ever seem to do things the easy way." Anya shook her head, but fully understood why she felt that way. Anya slipped out of the water and put a robe on, "Thank you for coming by for a moment, Maranda, don't enjoy your work too much. Come on, Telera, let's go inside and see if we can't distract our focus."

Posted by: syronj Nov 6 2005, 07:21 PM

It was a beautiful Spring morning. Shaka rose without disturbing Anya and Telera. He wanted to check what the illusion spells looked like in daytime.

Shaka stood near the pools and gardens and marvelled. The stones that Slyvos had given him to bury now made his grounds look like a field of jagged stones, not worth a second glance. Slyvos had told him not long before that it would be better than attempting invisibility. Even the sound of running water had been completely dampened.

I'll have to continue wrecking the trail, to be blunt about it, thought Shaka. But with the bamboo I planted, plus this magicka, the land has a better chance.

He watched the busy harbor in the distance, remembering the day he had walked through the shallows of the mangrove swamp closer to Ald Raathim. Even then Shaka had suspected that Daruhn was on the edge of change, but he hadn't the imagination then for how big a city it would become.

Shaka had an odd thought; the talk yesterday with Loranna and Nalion reminded him that Loranna still hadn't seen his property. He would have to make good on that someday, maybe if and when he returned from becoming Ra'Gada.

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 01:53 AM

Telera pushed the yurt's flap to the side and joined Shaka. He studied the Dunmer/Nord cross' face before breaking the morning's silence. Telera differed subtly from a typical Dunmer, even without the blue eyes, and she seemed taller than the rule.

"It's getting difficult to be patient, Tel. I still haven't heard that it's time for me to travel to Cyrodiil and appear before the Dibellans. But I have my offerings in mind. The blood of a Redguard, my blood, and a thing of beauty."

"I have you to thank for that last, but Anya has also got me thinking. When I return from the House, you'll know if the ideas were acceptable."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 7 2005, 02:02 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 6 2005, 11:53 PM)

“No need to rush into things,” Telera murmured, stretching languidly. “Oh I gave you an idea, what idea is this?”

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 02:16 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 7 2005, 03:02 AM)

“No need to rush into things,” Telera murmured, stretching languidly. “Oh I gave you an idea, what idea is this?”

Telera gave languidity a good name. Shaka touched her forehead affectionately for a second with his own, blue blaze against silken ash skin, then straightened again.

"I was going to have it be a surprise, but why not go over my choices with you. My gift of beauty will be two gifts, and Dibella can decide which to accept, perhaps both."

"Anya suggested that the Spear counts as beautiful. I agree, but I'm not ready to give up something that's been like my right arm for twenty years. So I'm going to offer the Dragonbone Cuirass. Why? Because there's beauty in its antiquity, in its craftsmanship, and in the scarcity of its materials."

"Of course I'll miss it, but it's a sign of how seriously I take this quest. But your idea is the second gift."

"I'm going to offer them the title to this land, all but an acre for any house I might build. Let this place be one of healing for other people: the ones who were unlucky in eros, the ones wounded by the Blue Dawn, or Red Mountain's explosion, by slavery, by war: a thousand things. This could be a retreat for more people than me or you."

"I guess I'm asking your approval, Tel. The natural beauty here, and whatever improvements I've made . . . They shouldn't just be my concern. And no matter what, I'll tell them I and my loved ones would always have access to this land."

"Maybe I could be a caretaker into the bargain."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 7 2005, 02:36 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 7 2005, 12:16 AM)

[snip]

Telera was quiet for a few minutes looking at where the flowers were, though they now appeared as a jagged patch of rock. She looked at the stream and then back at Shaka, “Give this as an offering to the House… but what if they take it away, what if they make it a retreat for members alone, what if we can’t come here anymore?”

Telera fell into a sitting position, eyes darting and limbs restless, mumbling under her breath indecipherably.

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 02:41 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 7 2005, 03:36 AM)

Alarmed, Shaka knelt and held her face in his hands. "Tel.... I won't let that happen. I'll stay Argonian before I'd let that happen. But can't you have some faith in them too?"

Shaka knew in an abstract way that Telera was saddled with a sentient, murderous dagger, but this was the first time it had been brought home to him. How badly was Telera being pushed by the iron dagger?

Posted by: S'reddit Nov 7 2005, 02:43 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Nov 5 2005, 09:54 PM)

Ingmar made his way back to the Nymph and Noggin, and sat in a chair, his feet up, contemplating.

"I'm glad to see you made it back safe and sound," Kethiah said quietly behind him. He hadn't heard her approach. "Was it as terrible as they say?"

Posted by: Teleran Nov 7 2005, 02:57 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 7 2005, 12:41 AM)

‘Well, you can’t let it happen, so stay an Argonian,’ Telera was tempted to say, but she didn’t.

She pushed away from Shaka and said, in a thoroughly miserable tone, “You’re right, they won’t do anything like that, such an action would be ugly. They won’t do something so hideous on purpose when they’re devoted to beauty.”

She added, “But I can’t stand the thought of losing this garden after you’ve changed. I’ll lose you after this is done and what you’ve given me as well.”

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 03:07 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 7 2005, 03:57 AM)

"What I've given you . . . Angel, I didn't know that I had. I've gotten a lot more from loving Anya and you than I deserve. . . . This isn't the dagger talking at all, is it."

"You won't lose me, unless you want to. Tel, I've been thinking . . . You said you couldn't be attracted to men, and of course you were male for your first two decades."

"But you've been female for seven months now, and you seemed comfortable with it. Women have their own agenda, their own wants, differing from males. So let me ask: what does your body want?"

"When you hold me, it's only an echo of what I would be as a human male. But maybe your woman's body has just as much to say as your memories from when you were male. . . . I hope that makes some kind of sense."

Shaka gathered Telera to his shoulder, hoping that it would help her the way it seemed to steady Anya.

Posted by: Teleran Nov 7 2005, 03:29 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 7 2005, 01:07 AM)

“Sorry Shaka,” Telera sighed, letting herself rest against him, she failed to even notice his mention of the dagger, such would usually have set her on edge but it seemed insignificant against the rest, “I know I don’t have to lose you, you won’t leave me because of this, that’s part of what I’m afraid of. I’ll always stand by your side, be there if you need me, but soon you’ll be able to have something else, you’ll want it too, but I won’t. And I don’t know how I’ll refuse you. I’m afraid I’ll probably act out of fear and do something to hurt you.”

She drew a deep breath, “Shaka, you’re wrong about that, maybe there should be, maybe there was supposed to be, but there isn’t. Period. Maybe that’s part of why I am so comfortable with this new body. No strange and awkward feelings for people I’d known before as friends. No suddenly discovering myself lost in Reichi’s eyes or some other such ridiculous thing.

“Maybe it’s only an echo, but maybe the distortion caused by the echoing off this imperfect surface is what I like.”

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 03:38 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 7 2005, 04:29 AM)

Shaka nodded. It was his turn to admit his fears to himself. "I guess I was fooling myself into thinking if only I became Ra'Gada, human, you would be attracted to the sight and smell of a male in your arms. But you really are still Teleran, in the end. . . . . And I can't blame you for falling in love with Anya. There's a lot to love and admire in her."

"If you don't want me to chance the gardens with the House, I don't have to. It seemed like the best idea at the time. But I'll think it over."

"If, or when, I appear in Ald Raathim as a human someday, you're free to choose as you will. I'll accept whatever happens."

Posted by: Teleran Nov 7 2005, 03:48 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Nov 7 2005, 01:38 AM)

“I want to keep you here and this garden as it is, but you’re right, you were told to take it seriously and this is the most beautiful thing you own, if you hold out on this you might not get what you want,” Telera said. “I’ll welcome you back and stay with you and Anya. I don’t know how I could do anything else, but if you get any ideas you’ll probably regret them.

“Try to think of me as a sister, or something, after you get back, I don’t know how this will work out, I have considered running, but I can’t do that, not really.”

Posted by: syronj Nov 7 2005, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Nov 7 2005, 04:48 AM)

"Okay," he replied. Shaka was finding a tear in his eye. "I'm glad you're not following Shai and running. . . . We'll take it a day at a time. If Anya finds herself choosing only you, I'll understand that as well. Thank you, Telera."

Posted by: Stargazey Nov 7 2005, 07:42 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Nov 7 2005, 02:43 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"I'm glad to see you made it back safe and sound," Kethiah said quietly behind him. He hadn't heard her approach. "Was it as terrible as they say?"

Ingmar had his eyes closed, and looked up, startled, when Kethiah spoke. "Oh, yes. It was terrible. More bloodshed then I've ever seen, or hope to see. And that was before Almalexia showed up."

ooc: Back around 4pm EST.

Posted by: summer Nov 7 2005, 10:51 AM

Over 200.
Feel free to start another.