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

Posted by: Loranna Jan 8 2006, 07:09 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:

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE NEW!!!

===

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, 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. This summary doesn't cover everything but it sums up some of the bigger events our campaign has covered. Note: She 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 SUN'S HEIGHT IN THE RP (i.e., July)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/Shardie/mapofmorrowind2.jpg is a map provided by Shardie showing the current division of territory between the forces loyal to the crown and the rebels in Morrowind, pre-attack on Ald Raathim.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v622/Shardie/MorrowindMap.jpg are the current borders, post-attack. Note; this map is a work-in-progress.
===

Summary for Loranna: Ald Raathim has survived the invasion of the Redoran an their machines, though the cost was high. Right now, Loranna is in the Nymph and Noggin, looking for Kethiah for various matters. [1] 

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Jan 8 2006, 07:12 PM

Summary

Kratos and Ivelaes are recovering from the brutal battle that was fought at Molag Mar. The rebuilding is taking more time than it should.

Astien is in the Nymph and Noggin, doing his part by healing all that he can. [2] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 8 2006, 07:17 PM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian battlemage, is sitting on the floor of the Nymph and Noggin with a number of Loranna's company, having survived the battle for Ald Raathim. [3] 

Posted by: Aki Jan 8 2006, 07:17 PM

Summary

Reichi Sari is down by the harbor, doing his damnest to clean himself and his stuff.

Dar'Var, who has recently reapeared, is in the Nymph and Noggin. [4] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 8 2006, 07:18 PM

Summary

The Nymph and Noggin

Kethiah, former assassin, co-proprietor of the Nymph and Noggin, the Duchess's excise and import/export agent (and secretly, her Spymaster) is at her tavern which survived the Redoran attack. All around her are wounded citizenry which she, being 7 months pregnant and unfit for combat, has been nursing during the attack. She is embracing her new husband Isidor, though she has noted too the presence of his brother Ingmar.[5] 

[8] 

Kethiah could not find the words, so she kept the embrace. Finally, she opens her eyes and sees not only Ingmar standing by, but Loranna.

"B'Vek," she said. "How bad is it? I have heard terrible things from the refugees. Does the castle still stand?"[9] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 8 2006, 07:24 PM

[13] 

Loranna briefly embraces the couple, smiling sadly. "The castle still stands; it took damage but it still stands," she says. "Most everyone who fled to the castle got through the night unharmed ..."

She thinks of Nalion, and her words die in her throat for a moment.

"Thank heaven, you two made it through," she says, looking up at Igmar and amening to "That we all made it through; hello again Igmar."[14] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 8 2006, 07:27 PM

So, Faryon was in a jovial mood. I awoke, ready for the meal, and what did you know? he had left the city for Blacklight. Which means, I too must leave. But where to go. I think I'll just wander. I heard that, during the Battle of Ald Raatham, once they got Maranda out of bed, she actually fought quite well... also as far as I understand it, the fleet of the Redorians is still anchored somewhere near Ald Raatham. Although, I think thier commander may be heading back. Now was it a good decision not to launch the Amphibious attack? It seems Admiral Bradas thought so. To do so, actually, would mean total suicide. Sure, many of Ald Raathams troops would have died, but so would have his. I think he is a smart commander

Then there is the way Vadon used his crabs... I think he used them the wrong way, thats why the attack failed. I head the Indoril have made Massive gains to the south. they advanced to just south of Verenis Hall, and all the way to the Thir river. What importance is that? It seems now, Ald Raatham is cut off from all non magical transports with her allies. Perhaps its the Allies plan to starve them to submission?

Anyway, I better get going, before the defeated armies arrive back... [15] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 8 2006, 07:27 PM

[19] 
Anya flashed him a feral smile, hoping to unerve him and toy around a bit, "The pleasure's mine.[20] 

[23] 
Anya shook her head, what was it with this Khajiit, they way she attached herself? It went against her better judgement, but she decided anyway, "Tell you what, after everyone else leaves, I'll let you in on the secrects." [24] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 8 2006, 07:31 PM

[28] 

"Quite a change, me being the last one to know about everything," Kethiah nodded. "No one will be coming into port for any business for a while ... Does Pythus Angelicus know what the situation is in Mournhold?"
[29] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 8 2006, 07:33 PM

Summary for Kiseena
Kiseena, having done her best during the battle at Ald Raathim, currently lay like a pile of tired cat-shaped rags against a wall in the Nymph and Noggin tavern. She's there with her friends Anya and Shaka.[30] 

[33] 

"Is Anya certain?" Kiseena asked, her ears having perked. "Kiseena understands if Anya does not yet want to share her secrets. The Clan-Mother says that secrets are very special things to have."

The khajiit wasn't terribly sure why either, but in the past day she'd done more things for Anya than she had for anyone in a long time. [34] 

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Jan 8 2006, 07:34 PM

[38] 

Astien simply raised an eyebrow at Anya's attempt to intimidate him. "Quite a pretty smile you have there." He said, flashing his own pearly whites.

Astien waved to the Khajiit and Argonian around Anya. "Hello there." [39] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 8 2006, 07:35 PM

Summary for Nalion

Nalion has fought in the battle of Ald Raathim, trying to stop the Redoran war crabs from reaching the castle by tearing down buildings to block their way. After the enemy had brought sea-based war crabs into Ald Raathim's harbour, he worked a spell that called down magic from the stars to destroy a crab and a redoran unit trying to breach through the walls.

However, by doing this he burnt his hands severely and collapsed. Though Loranna and Slyvos found and healed him, he has not yet awoken. [40] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 8 2006, 07:43 PM

[44] 

Loranna's smile fades somewhat. "... Pythus was among the fallen; accounts say he died saving children from the enemy," Loranna says sadly. "Thus far, we've heard nothing from Mournhold, and the Queen Mother wasn't there to my knowledge, so I can't ask her what occured ..."

"My scouts tell me that the Redoran and Indoril have squeezed us in; other than Verenis Hall and a small strip of land west, this is all enemy territory now," Loranna continues quietly, her expression becoming grim. "But the Mage Guild still stands, from what I see. We have some problems facing us ..."[45] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 8 2006, 07:43 PM

Summary: Reeds is in the N&N, doing what he can to help heal without magic.

Valerius is at the docks, helping howver he can there.

*****************[46] 

[49] 
"It's coming, that pretty much sums it up." Reeds tried the spell again, and again, it destabiolized and dissipated in a puff of wind. He finished bandaging the one he was working on, then stood and turned to Slashes. Embracing him, he said, "I'm glad you made it through this, friend." [50] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 8 2006, 07:46 PM

[54] 

Shaka shook his hand. The young Breton reminded him a little of Tris; same casual air that hinted at a moneyed background, however unconsciously. "Narsis, right? We haven't had a chance to talk, but I'm glad you survived last night's mess."

Shaka glanced at Anya and Kiseena. Was it wise to reveal her true nature to the Khajiit? It would be a real test of the two women's friendship.[55] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 8 2006, 07:49 PM

[59] 
"I'll always have my secrets, some I won't tell anyone. But this one is who I am, one hiding behind this mask." Anya smiled, and leaned her head against the wall. [60] 

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Jan 8 2006, 07:49 PM

[64] 

"I'll do my part in exchange for the hospitality that has been provided to me since i've been here in Ald Raathim." Astien smiled. "You're Shaka if i'm not mistaken, i've noticed your skill in the magickal arts, very impressive." Complemented Astien. [65] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 8 2006, 07:50 PM

[69] 

Commander Slashes-With-claws, sits in teh Nymph and Noggin, drinking a Mazte, not his favorite, but all that was available. He is tired and drained of magicka and his damaged armor is covered in dried blood. His mood is slightly depressed about the loss of so many of his troops, but it is imporving as he talks with his friends.

He returned Reeds embrace, being with his friends was good indeed. "I did not make it fully intact though." He said to Reeds, holding up his left hand. The end of his left ring finger was missing. "It was shot off by an arrow." [70] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 8 2006, 07:52 PM

[74] 
Reeds looks at the claw, or the lack therof, for a moment. "does it still hurt?" [75] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 8 2006, 07:53 PM

[79] [80] 

[83] 

Kiseena smiled softly to herself, giving a nod. She relaxed against the wall as well, sitting close to Anya, but not so close that Shaka might get jealous. Though part of her mind wondered why she thinks he'd worry about such things.

She gives a respectful nod to Astien, but wasn't strong enough for much else. Not even her tail was engaged its usual idle swishing. Eventually, she fell asleep, sitting there. Her head lolled over, settling onto one of Anya's shoulders. [84] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 8 2006, 07:54 PM

[88] 

"Thanks, Astien. I sometimes think I'm no more than a hedge-wizard with a couple of spells and a really good spear," said Shaka wryly. "Excuse me for a second."

Shaka squeezed Anya's hand and nodded warmly to Kiseena before getting up to check in with the Duchess and Kethiah.[89] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 8 2006, 07:57 PM

[93] 

"I hurt most everywhere, if it does I can not tell." He grimaced a little as he shifted his aching shoulders, slicing up armored enemies for hours led to a world of hurt later on. "I used up the last of my magicka potions and the last of my magicka healing the injured." [94] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 8 2006, 08:00 PM

[98] 
"Well here," Reeds pulled a restore health potion out of his satchel, "It's all I've got, but it should help." After handing Slashes the potion, he remarked, "Now we might just have to start calling you Slashes-With-Nineclaws, Though I guess that's better than 'One-Leg'." [99] 

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Jan 8 2006, 08:01 PM

[103] 

Astien smiles to Shaka and watches him leave. He nods to Anya and Kiseena before casting another round of healing on wounded patients.

~-~-~-~

Kratos studied the mass graves that had been dug for both friend and foe. He always hated the aftermath of battle.

Inside, however, he was pondering Arynel's last words to him. [104] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 8 2006, 08:08 PM

[108] 

Slashes did not like the idea of having that as his name, but he gave the argonian equivelent of a smile. He gave the potion back to Reeds, "No, it is only some aches, they will pass in time, give the potion to someone who can not live without it." He looked at his legs, "Yes my legs are fine, as is my tail, a good thing. I wonder if a new claw could be made of ebony or a piece of metal from one of those crabs. It was good to see you alive again marshbrother. I should speek with her grace."

He got up, a little less tired, and went looking for Loranna.


Jei-Set staggers into the nymph as well. His chitin armor is in bad shaps, there is a large rent in the chest piece, a pattern of dried blood from a healed cut. His left bracer is gone, his arm blood soaked, but healed. He falls against the wall, exausted. [109] 

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Jan 9 2006, 01:03 AM

Greebo sneaked into the Nymph and Noggin in the shadows, and as unnoticeably as possible, settled into one of the corners for a little nap. He barely had any sleep, before he woke up to someone's pat on the head. He prepared to scratch the person, until Greebo woke up well enough to notice, that it was just Dastril. Dastril sat on a chair next to him, looking tired.

Dastril had managed to find a deep plate from somewhere, and he poured half of his restore magicka potion into it, and handed it over to Greebo, who started to drink it. Dastril gulped the rest of it himself, and then closed his eyes to rest them. [110] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 9 2006, 07:42 AM

ooc: Isidor, Ingmar, Tyradil, Tilitalia and Tsei are all in the Nymph and Noggin.

Ingmar and Isidor are talking with Kethiah and Loranna.[111] 

[114] 
Ingmar nodded to the duchess, but kept silent.
[115] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Jan 9 2006, 08:56 AM

Dar'Tessir wakes up. He was in Slashes' wrecked crab. Dar'Tessir must have been knocked unconsious he thought to himself. Indeed, he had been knocked out when the crab had been disabled. He didn't hear the sounds of battle anylonger and assumed it was over. He stepped out of the crab and saw the scene of destruction. He jumped off the crab and landed on a deceased Redoran warrior. "[nice amulet in ta'Agra]," he takes it. He had spent most of his money on a meal before the battle and decided to recuperate that loss, it was dirty work, but he didn't mind it. He made a mental note to only take from dead Redorans.

(OOC):
I cant' post today and will be lucky to the rest of the week (exams are coming up) so don't expect much from me. If something's wrong with this post PM me and I'll change it first chance I get.
[116] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 9 2006, 11:23 AM

[120] 

"Then we can't waste time," Kethiah shook her head. "The defenses need to be built up again, even faster than before, or they won't need another huge invasion. And Diamond should create a monument honoring those who have fallen."[121] 

[124] 

"I didn't know you were back in Ald Raathim, brother-in-law," Kethiah added, turning to Ingmar. "But I am glad to see you survived."

And she was, truly. Despite everything, she still remembered him as the sweet-natured cook she had left in Skyrim.[125] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 01:15 PM

[129] 

Loranna grimaces. " ... Diamond's in trouble," she says quietly to Kethiah. "Dilave was investigating her disappearance before the invasion - and someone sent me a note implying they're going to try and blackmail me for Diamond's life. I don't know what to do to help her right now; they left no demands nor any real information."

" ... But I do know what Ald Raathim needs, both immediately and in the near future," she continues. "And I'm going to need everyone's help to do it."[130] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 9 2006, 01:36 PM

[134] 

Shaka stood nearby. "I'm glad now that Barenziah and Helseth financed the city's walls. We wouldn't have survived without the expansions."

"Sorry to interrupt, Your Grace. It's good to see you and Kethiah alive."

Like everyone, Shaka looked as if he had wallowed in blood and oil. After what he had seen in the harbor, though, he didn't plan to wash off there just yet. [135] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Jan 9 2006, 01:59 PM

OOC Summary: Vaan: Vaan is in Ald Raathim, looking for his brethren.

Vaan wondered about the city, taking in the damage. Once in awhile he came across a fellow Muatramer, but when asked for numbers, they could not tell, only estimates were given.

It was time to go see Slashes. [136] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 9 2006, 02:07 PM

[140] 

Kethiah shakes her head. "I'm sorry, I didn't know about that. Maybe that's something I can help with, since I'm fairly useless right now, with my contacts temporarily lost ..."[141] 

[144] 

"You too, Shaka," Kethiah smiled. "I'm glad everyone is regrouping here. Saves a lot of worry."

[145] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 9 2006, 02:09 PM

[149] 

Slashes was waiting for Loranna to finish her conversation. He saw Vann and greeted him, his voice and face both showing werriness. "Greetings, your Muatramer fight well. I was proud to have them under my command." [150] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Jan 9 2006, 02:15 PM

[154] 
Vaan smiled at the compliment. "Thankyou, fighting is only their secondary function though, they will truly prove themselves in the weeks ahead, helping to rebuilding your city."

He paused for awhile, before pressing on with a difficult question: "Tell me, Slashes-With-Claws, how many of my men survived the battle?"

You could tell he was uneasy about it. [155] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 9 2006, 02:22 PM

[159] 

Once again, a bit of sorrow returned to his face at the thought of men under his command being dead. His tail moved back and forth as he thought. "I am not fully sure. The numbers are estimates at best. Many were lost, but I think more then half of them survived. I am not even sure of the numbers of my own men." He scratched his chin with his left hand, thinking, then put his hand back down at the weird feeling of missing a finger. " A more complete counting will be done later today." [160] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Jan 9 2006, 02:25 PM

[164] 

Vaan nodded. "Good idea. Thankyou for your time, Commander Slashes, three be with you."

He was going to turn, but decided he had one more thing to ask: "Did Archpatriach Arynel pay a visit? I heard rumours."

His face looked worried. [165] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 9 2006, 02:27 PM

[169] 

He thought for a moment, "Yes he did, he had a message for me to convey to them." He told Vaan the message. [170] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 02:31 PM

[174] 

Loranna smiles at Shaka. "Hello dear; thank the Nine you survived," she says, briefly embracing the Argonian Battlemage. "Anya is all right, yes?"

She saw Slashes-With-Claws and notes his missing claw, and almost asks if he had managed to hold onto it - but it was too late to restore the missing digit. He would bear this mark for the rest of his life, a reminder of the evening's frantic battle.

Tris, Teleran, Falco, now Slashes ... the first two had been lucky beyond measure, an regained the parts they had lost, but such luck was rare ...[175] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Jan 9 2006, 02:32 PM

[179] 

Vaan worried look did not dissapate.

"Odd." was all he could manage at the time.

He thanked Slashes again, and took his leave of the N&N. [180] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 9 2006, 03:03 PM

Slashes turne back to Loranna, seeing her free he approached. He gave the best bow he could, staggering slightly. "Greetings your grace. I thought that I should inform you of the preliminary survey of the army. It apprears that we lost at least half our fighting forces, it looks like no more then two thirds though." The sorrow over the loss of his men was evident in his eyes, even to those not familiar with argonian expressions. "A more accurate count will be conducted today, I will give you the report when it is available. What news is there of other battles?" [181] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 03:11 PM

[185] 

Seeing Slashes stagger, Loranna reaches out to him with a han glowing with Restoration magic. "Easy Commander ..." she says, her face sympathetic.

" ... I see," she says, the look in Slashes eyes and the thought the fallensoldiers twisting her heart. "Our scouts say we're cut off from the rest of the royalists now; the Redoran and Indoril have us surrounded. Only the land immediately west of us remains free of their control - and who knows how long that will last."

"There is much that needs to be done, and quickly," she continues. "We need to get the wall repaired, as Kethiah said; we're all going to be very busy ..."[186] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 9 2006, 03:12 PM

Summary for P'Rassha:

The nine foot tall bipedal jaguar survived the fight...barely.

He held his position till the end, and was left for dead by the last squadron of Redoran soldiers he faced. Fortunatly, P'Rassha was a hard cat to skin.

When he gained back his consciousness, he was still in the middle of the road, surrounded by many enemy soldiers still laying where they took their final breathe, but the battle was over.

Ald Raathim was almost in ruin. P'Rassha felt sorry for Lady Loranna. Her beatiful town was really in bad shape. He saw some people trying to save the survivors like him still lying on the battlefield, and thought about helping them, but suddenly, he wondered where were the others...where were his friends.

P'Rassha knew where to look, and walked (he didn't have enough energy left to wrun) in the direction of the Nymph and Noggin.

Covered in blood, the gargantuan Khajjit managed to reach the building, but had just enough strength to push the door before collapsing again on the floor. [187] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 9 2006, 03:15 PM

[191] 

He felt a bit better after lor had used her magic on him. "Yes, we will be." He thought for a moment, scratching his chin with his left hand again. "I wonder if those crabs we have captured could be used to transport supplies to the city. They could withstand most any raider attack. Whatever duties you have for my your grace, I am ready to perform them." [192] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 03:25 PM

Loranna smiles at Slashes, but P'Rassha's ... dramatic entrance catches her attention.

"Days like this, there just aren't enough healers to go around," she comments to Slashes-With-Claws. "One moment ..."

It was already promising to be a long morning ...[193] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 9 2006, 03:34 PM

[197] 
Anya stood up. She needed something to do, something to keep her mind busy.

She walked into the Nymph & Noggin right as P'Rassha collapsed. She waited for Loranna heal him, and then stepped around. She shrugged at Loranna, messing in with the hole in her armor, where she was nearly gutted and had sent her over the edge, "I wish I could help, but my healing talents only work one way, and aren't all that benificial to the recipient." [198] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 04:27 PM

[202] 

Loranna embraces Anya, her tearstreaks adding to the look of joy on her face. "Anya, you're all right," she says, stepping back to look at the Bosmer. Her eyes fall on the hole in her armor.

"We're managing, thank you though," she says, her smile turning wry. "You had a really rough night, I take it ..."[203] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 9 2006, 04:54 PM

Isidor liked pie, but there was none around ... Poor Isidor. [204] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 9 2006, 05:03 PM

[208] 

Shaka was glad of Loranna's embrace, and to see that both she and Kethiah hadn't lost their children.

When P'Rassha entered the tavern and collapsed, Shaka called over to Kethiah: "Party of One."

He hastened over to see what help the Khajiit needed, though, regretting the attempt at humor. "I'm glad the big guy made it too. I caught a glimpse of him and Isidor, wading into the enemy. What fighters. . . ."

"If we're cut off by land and sea, is there a chance we can use the Mages Guild even more? Don't know offhand if we can increase the size and number of the teleportation platforms." [209] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 05:08 PM

[213] 

"Dear you don't want to know how much transporting all the stone for the castle and walls magically cost to begin with," Loranna says to Shaka. "I never thought you could spend money that fast in my life ..."

"No; we need to secure at least one of our trade routes back and soon," she says. "As for the walls ... an idea strikes me. Why not use the crabs to plug up the holes they themselves made? We can fix the ballistae on them and use those to help replace the guard towers that we've lost."[214] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 9 2006, 05:23 PM

[218] 
Anya's eyes rippled for a moment, until she caught control of her face again. "It's... not one I'll remember fondly. I really don't want to talk about it here."[219] 

[222] 
"Um, I could help with securing some routes. They can't patrol all the forests, can they?" [223] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 05:38 PM

[227] 

Loranna's expression wavers for a second, strain showing on her face.

"The Indoril and Redoran have squeezed us in," she says quietly to Anya when her expression recovers. "We're cut off from the other royalists, we're only just connected to Cyroiil by a thin strip of land - and our best trade routes didn't pass through that territory. We might be able to secure something capable of sustaining us through that territory, I don't know yet; I think though we're going to need to try and take back some of the land we've just lost. Somehow. With the strength we have left."

Loranna turns her head to the side and rubs her neck, frowning,then motions for her friends to gather round. "We have funds still, at least; I've been putting away money in case of drought. It's not enough to pay for rebuiling the whole city, but it will buy us food and supplies - if we can find a way to get them here. But we'll need more money to keep ourselves going in the long run, to repair the city and get things running again."

"First things we need to do; get the holes on our walls plugged up, get a lifeline established again, give people a sense of hope. Bad as things are right now, they're not hopeless yet; we need to act fast though if we're to avoid getting totally penned in by the Redoran." She pauses for breath. "We'll be holing a memorial service for the fallen soon; by then, I hope to have preliminary plans in motion." [228] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 9 2006, 05:40 PM

[232] 

"Maybe the scout forces will have to be made permanent before we're through. Call them rangers or something. . . ."

"Your Grace, there could be stone and other building supplies left over from the prewar construction. I hope we can rally enough survivors and patch the walls. But the warriors who captured the warcrabs can advise you better than I can; the machines could act as at least a temporary solution until then."

"I should Recall at some point and see if the enemy went through my property. . . . Not important right now. Loranna, how is your husband? And Nalion?"
[233] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 9 2006, 05:50 PM

[237] 

"Slyvos is all right, thank Dibella," Loranna says. "Nalion ... is sleeping; his wounds are healed but he needs rest. I've set him up in the castle, though sadly, not his old room."

She grimaces a bit. "It's ... drafty, these days."[238] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 9 2006, 06:11 PM

[242] 

Shaka couldn't add much to that, except to nod sadly. "I'll be back in an hour or so," he said. "I'm going to check my land and clean up. Anyone else who wants to try the stream can do so."

He cast Recall and found himself near the forest clearing where stood his yurt. Shaka was relieved to see the wards had worked to disguise the land and the stream; the enemy had apparently taken a slightly different route in any event. But Shaka kept his somber mood; the images of the battle for Ald Raathim were too fresh.

Shaka stripped off the armor and swam for a while in the river, trying to still his thoughts for the first time in several days.



[243] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 9 2006, 06:20 PM

Valerius, still in full and bloddy battle regalia, walked into the Nymph and Noggin. Seeing other do the same, he reached behind the bar, grabbed a drink, and replaced it with a small stack of septims. [244] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 9 2006, 07:29 PM

[248] 

"Like I said, I'd be happy to organize ..." Kethiah began, and then was distracted. A Breton man of middle-age and undistinguished looks had entered the tavern, looking around at the chaos, bewildered. With him were several sailors.

"Oan!" she cried, running to him. "B'Vek, how did you get in to port?"

"I didn't have much choice," the merchant said grimly. "I had to avoid the Redoran warships, and this was the only way. What's happened here?!"

"The war," Kethiah replied. "What news?"

"There were attacks in Vivec and Mournhold as well," he said. "Both were repelled."

"There was still fighting in Vivec," one of his sailors said, shaking his head. "Might be too soon to say whether the fight was really repelled or not ..."[249] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 9 2006, 08:16 PM

Shaka dressed again and scrubbed off his armor as best he could. It was still gouged and scorched for now; he would get it repaired later. Was the Nord smith Longhammer even still alive, he wondered.

He stuffed his gear bag with more potions, as well as clothing to give to the wounded and displaced back in town. Shaka hiked back to Ald Raathim, returning to the Nymph and Noggin. [250] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 9 2006, 10:00 PM

As the others discussed the battle and rebuilding Ald Raathim, Ingmar sat in a chair, off to the side. He was feeling a mixture of emotions, which didn't put him much in the mood for talking. Jealousy, regret, self-hatred, all mixed in his mind, and his heart, leaving a drink of mead as the best cure. [251] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 9 2006, 10:17 PM

[255] 

Kiseena fell to her side as Anya stood up, but she didn't wake up. She looked very content, though all cats tend to when they fall asleep, especialy if they've exerted themselves.

Though she does start to stir, lifting her head a moment. A few sniffs tells her that Anya was where she now lay, but not anymore. Slowly, she sat up, looking around for her missing friend. [256] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 9 2006, 10:24 PM

[260] 

"I meant it when I said I'm glad you made it through," Kethiah said, looking to Ingmar, not smiling. "But if you're angry, and want to do something more useful than drinking, you could help restore order to the city. I've heard there's looting going on, and Dram is trying to organize a group to protect the businesses that survived the Redorans from being dismantled by our own citizens." [261] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 01:35 AM

[265] 
Anya sat back down next to Kiseena. There wasn't much she could do until plans were finalized, so she was left to waiting. Despite never needing sleep, she felt invrediblely drained.

She closed her eyes, the last few hours of the previous day replaying, before night struck. She had alwasy had a healthy fear for what happened, but this was too much. Maybe she should talk to someone about it, perhaps later. Right now she hoped someone would distract her. [266] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 01:38 AM

[270] 

Kiseena watched Anya sit down again. The expression on her face seemed a lot different than the happy sort that she'd first met the night before.

"Is friend Anya allright?" Kiseena asked, just loud enough for Anya to hear. [271] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 01:41 AM

[275] 
"Sometimes friend Anya wonders if she is. Something just spooked me yesterday, that's all. Nothing you need to worry about, Kiseena." Anya glanced at her friend, and smiled. It wasn't often people had this sort of worry, and after meeting under two days ago. [276] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 01:44 AM

[280] 

Kiseena couldn't help but smile a bit at Anya's own. "Kiseena worries because..." she said, then trailed off. "Because... Because... Kiseena finds Anya worth worrying about."

Kiseena blinked a few times, as if saying the words was a totally new feeling. "Kiseena knows it sounds strange," she says, one of her ears flicking. [281] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 01:49 AM

[285] 
Anya grabbed Kiseena's hand and squeezed it, her mouth tilted in a half-smile at Kiseena's flicking ear, "Your profession never allowed for much in the way of trust. I understand." [286] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 01:55 AM

[290] 

The fur of Kiseena's cheeks fluffed in a khajiit form of blush. "Friend Anya is lucky," she said. "Kiseena does not understand it herself." A soft smile was on her face as she squeezed Anya's hand back. Though, a thought slides through her mind, pushing itself from her memory.

"Kiseena... is sorry," the khajiit said quietly. "Kiseena was not fast enough to return to the tavern before Anya left..." [291] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 01:59 AM

[295] 
Anya's thoughts drifted to the scout skirmish.She shook her head, banishing those thoughts as well, the same thing had happened there too. "Well, maybe it's best you didn't go."

"I waited as long as I could. But they army was marching to fast, and I didn't have any extra time to set up. I'm sorry." [296] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 02:05 AM

[300] 

Kiseena slowly slid her paw out of Anya's hand. She looked down at her lap, seeing the worn belt and leggings of her chitin armor.

"If Kiseena were to tell Anya the truth," she started. "Then Anya would know that... Kiseena had no reason to fight for Ald Raathim before last night. Kiseena planned to escape during the confusion or find a very good place to hide."

"Clan-Mother," Kiseena thought. "Forgive Kiseena for telling a secret if it is not to belong to friend Anya." [301] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 02:10 AM

[305] 
"Kiseena, my life's work has revolved around revenge, political and personal assassination, theivery, spying, and mercenary work. I've been down every dark alley Vvardenfell had to offer before Blue Dawn, and several mainland missions I've told no one about, and never plan to let anymore out then that. I've heard every coward's excuse, and every politicians pathetic mewling.

"You stayed. That's all there is. If you continue to stay, that's all I'll see." [306] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 02:16 AM

[310] 

Kiseena nodded, though the word "coward" seemed to stick to her mind. "Kiseena does not understand," she said quietly. "Kiseena did not once think of leaving the city today, but the only thing Kiseena has done diferently was... meet Anya." [311] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 02:24 AM

[315] 
Anya shook her head, a slow smile spreading. Anya understood what Kiseena must be feeling, it had happened to her a long time ago, though in more forced situations, "Like I said, that's all I'll see. I'm glad to have meet friend Kiseena. And I'm glad Kiseena sees me as worthy of standing by." [316] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 02:30 AM

[320] 

Kiseena smiled softly, relaxing a bit about all that had happened. "Kiseena is glad that friend Anya considers Kiseena a friend as well," she said softly.

She let out a sigh, looking around. "Kiseena bets that Anya wants to crawl into a bed and die for the rest of the day as badly as Kiseena does, yes?" Kiseena didn't seem terribly happy. She had a feeling there wouldn't be much sleep in her near future. [321] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 10 2006, 02:44 AM

[325] 
"I wish I could. I really do. Come on, let's head inside, I'll see if the mead storage survived and get you a drink. Heck, there might even be some rothmet left, you might like that drink. Then you can fall asleep in the booth with a full tummy instead of outside, I'd think you'd have earned that at least."

Anya stood up, and dragged Kiseena to her feet, winking at her, "Let's go, cutey pie." Anya lead Kiseena inside, to her favorite corner booth. [326] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 10 2006, 02:50 AM

[330] 

Kiseena grins again, soft bursts of tired purring escaping her throat as she follows Anya into the tavern. [331] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 10 2006, 07:45 AM

[335] 
Ingmar looked up at Kethiah, not smiling either. "I'm glad you and Isidor are all right, too. Maybe I'll look into Dram's group ..." [336] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 11:35 AM

[340] 

Summery for Sego: After reciving his payment from the Redorans for his mercanary work on the recent attack, Sego decides to return to the City for some work.

"I hear you know about the Civil unrest" Sego Said while mantaining his posture for the added impression. "Would you by any chance know if anyone is looking for a extra sword to help.... Settle the brigiands down a bit? I'm good with a blade, and i'm hoping to make a few friends in these parts and hell maybe even a little coin." [341] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 01:33 PM

[345] 

"Like I said, that would be useful," Kethiah said, looking at Ingmar with her one red and one violet eyes.

He was a puzzle. First, he was the sweet-natured cook in Skyrim, whom she had dallied with and then left when her assignment was over. Then he was Isidor's lost brother, professing his love to her. Then, a drunk, a brawler when she rejected him. And now, sullen, but evidently fighting for Ald Raathim still ... A good guy, but an infuriating one.[346] 

[349] 

Kethiah welcomed the opportunity to turn away from her former lover and current brother-in-law. "If you're looking to help, there's more than enough to do. We need to stop the looting going on in the city, and put our defenses back up. Dram is the head of the Duchess's guards, and he's doubtless in the city somewhere, dealing with the situation."[350] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 02:01 PM

[354] 

"ill be sure to look into it....I feel partly responsible for this needless destruction. But anyways how about a breather for the both of us at the pub. My treat." Sego says. Now thinking back to what he was told by the Redoran commander Sego begins to speak. "So from what i've noticed the reminents of the Redoran soldiers have all fled, do you guys have any plans for a retalliation or do you plan on rebuilding the city?" Sego continues.

Sego remembering some of the tactics employed by the Redoran soldiers begins to wonder if the civil unrest could be a ploy on the part of the Redorans to occupy the soldiers enough for them to mount a counterattack.
[355] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 02:05 PM

[359] 

"It's my tavern," Kethiah said, touching her belly which was almost eight months' pregnant. "And I rarely drink, but I appreciate the offer. What do you mean that you were partly responsible?"
[360] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 02:18 PM

[364] 

"Ah it's nothing just alittle job that went wrong... Eh to hell with it. Not to long ago I stoped by Ald'Ruhn to see if i could catch a job or two. and well.. Some guy pointed me to a House Brother who was looking for anyone good with a sword to help with an attack they were planning." Sego pauses, wondering how much trouble hes about to get himself into. "I was told that all they wanted us to do was to help guard supplys and a if needed escape route. But after the battle went sour they forced me and a few others to help with the fight. i said no but they said we wouldn't get paid. Bastards I tell you." Sego said.

It seemed as if those drinks were kicking in and making him a bit talkative. Finaly realizing that he's probably about to be killed decides to shut up.

"Well anyways for my misfourtune of finding myself on the wrong side of the battlefield I feel that it is my duty to help, So if i may i think I might go take a gander and see if I can find this Dram character. [365] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 02:35 PM

Accedently quoted my own response sorry. Can you delete your own posts here? [366] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 02:37 PM

[370] 

Kethiah looked surprised for a moment, and then smiled, pouring Sego another drink. "Your help would be much appreciated, and rewarded, of course ... But why don't you first tell me a little bit more about your story?"

Very few people knew that Kethiah was the Duchess of Ald Raathim's Spymaster. She wanted to keep that secret for the sake of her family. That said, she was very good at playing the part of the friendly tavernkeeper, learning what she could about Redoran troop movements from this source.

She would have to do some research into this fellow, she told herself. He may have the markings of a damn fine double-agent.[371] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 03:25 PM

[375] 

Sego thinking to himself. Heh I have no loyalties to those Redoran scum and anyways they paid crap to boot. Now reminising what the commanders of the Redoran Elite were briefed on Sego says " Well We arrived not to long before the battle began and I and the other mercs were briefed that if the attack should fail we were supposed to mix alongside the public and await for some sort of a contact or something like that."

Now thinking back to the briefing he overheard Sego continues to say "Well its been some time and I haven't been approached by anyone. But I wonder, when we marched over here I was with a smaller detachment and we never made any encampment of the sorts we just joined the battle."

Sego shocked to think that a invasion force wouldn't erect some sort of a beachhead nearby for an attack begins to speculate the wearabout of were such a encampment might be. But pondering back upon His memory Sego knew that His merc unit was taken a different path then that of the main force. "hmmm I wonder if that was so we couln't defect and tell the local defenses the wearabouts of such a base." Sego ponders to himself.

[376] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 03:48 PM

[380] 

"Very interesting," Kethiah replied, and looked around the tavern. Isidor, Ingmar, Slashes, Anya, Kiseena, many more ... Enough to get together a group to find this enemy encampment if it existed and rout them out -- while still keeping their eye on Sego. He seemed trustworthy enough, but one never knew ... She signaled for the heroes within eyesight to come over, and told them what Sego was saying about the possibility of Redorans still being within the environs of Ald Raathim.

Obviously, they would have to keep it secret, to avoid panic. But it had to be investigated and dealt with immediately.[381] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 04:01 PM

[385] 

"Anything I can help with, Kethiah?" said Shaka, walking over. [386] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 04:09 PM

[390] 

Slashes had finished talking with Loranna and saw Kethiah signal, so he approached. "Greetings. What may I do for you?" [391] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 10 2006, 04:26 PM

Ingmar and Isidor made their way over to Kethiah, and at the same time, Tsei descended the stairs from her room, where she had been resting, after helping with the battle and healing. [392] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 04:29 PM

[396] [397] 

[400] 

"I'd like you to meet Sego," Kethiah said. "He was apparently a reluctant member of the Redoran force, but he is interested in switching sides ... And he says that the Redorans likely made camp somewhere in the vicinity, instead of simply fleeing. If that's the case, they need to be routed out as soon as possible, as vulnerable as we are right now."

Her red and violet eyes told even more than her words conveyed. Sego may be trusted, but maybe not. They should go with him, but watch their backs.

(OOC -- Running out to lunch, but don't wait on me if you want to go kick some camping Redoran butt[401]  [402]  ) [403] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 04:58 PM

Semi-controlled chaos reigned in the streets of Ald Raathim. Teams of workers were putting the Duchess's plans for the crabs into motion, the giant monstrosities lumbering once more through the city. With only a handful of the crabs being both free of rubble and in working order, the workers struggle with mastering the crabs' controls enough to clear out the buried crabs, so those that are salvagable mey be put to the defense of the city.

The hollars of mer shouting "Incoming!" and "Watch the crab!" mix with the rumble of metal feet lumbering slowly through the city, and the sound of stone and wood being pushed aside; if not for the shaking of the earth beneath their feet, people could almost swear it sounded like the busy days of Ald Raathim's growth, months ago, before the war had started.

In the midst of the cleanup, Dram and his guards work against the activity and the destroyed buildings that block passage through the streets, chasing after those unscrupulous enough to steal what hadn't been wrecked in the battle. As he deftly grabs a drunken Breton trying to break into Diamond's studio, Dram finds himself thinking of Dilave.

I hope you're all right, in Moonguard, Dram reflects. Much as I could use you right now, I think I'm happy you were away for this ...[404] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 05:04 PM

Shaka looked at Sego intently. "I see . . . . Everyone in Ald Raathim lost a family member or a friend. It will be hard to deal with this mercenary, but I'll try."

"Commander, you've been on the move for two or three days at least. You won't be of use to your men if you can't think straight. Will you be okay?"

Shaka felt a little guilty for taking time out to clean up, but they could probably all use it. No time if the House Redoran was still in the area, though.[405] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 05:10 PM

[409] 

Slashes looked weary and he ached from the hours of fighting. "If I can get some potions I should be okay. I used up the last of my magicka hours ago and potions before that. But I still need to perform a role call. I do not know how many men we have left." [410] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 05:19 PM

[414] 

Shaka handed him a potion from the yurt. "This should help restore you a little, or at least postpone the crash. Let your staff call the roll, and maybe we can wrap up this loose end in the meantime." [415] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 05:25 PM

[419] 

Slashes took the potion, if he did not have to worry about another group of Redorans he would have had Shaka give it to someone else. He drank it, feeling much better, he stood up straighter. "Thank you marshbrother." His mind cleared up as well. "Yes, I will have one of my Lieutenants do role call." His armor was still damaged in a dozen places, but it would have to do. [420] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 06:17 PM

[424] [425] 

[428] 

"Well Slashes if you guys could use the extra sword I could find and gather up any mercs that survived the battle and get them to join." Sego begins to say "But i warn you some may be a little deceptive I might add. But besides they may be able to help us locate this camp...If it even exists anyways." Sego now reflecting what Shaka had said begain to say

"Well Shaka I mourn the loss of all those who have suffered at this dire time. But please do not mistake me for your common merc I was just taking advantage of the situation and pay, I had no idea of the Redorans true intention.. If I knew I never would have follow them on this insane crusade of theirs." Sego says

"Also some of the mercs here might be able to help you strengthen your defenses for enemy spys, i mean take no offense i was able to slip in here pretty easily. It seems you have many cracks within the City gaurd, I know I wouldnt want many strangers slipping in and out in this time of need."

Sego takes the time whil the other orginize a raiding party to step out side and help some local citizens out with some work. maybe some work can sober me up a tad, by the way I wonder if any shops are up and running? [429] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 10 2006, 06:19 PM

Ald Raathim, near the battered city gates

There was a small turmoil at the damaged city gates at Ald Raathim, and those who passed by shot curious looks at the guards and the group that argued with them.
"I told you that I know Lady Loranna, Sir.", said a man clad in leather, bow strung to his back, silver sword at his side. His long hair was black and tied back with a ring of hammered silver and his face was dark, not the Dunmer ashen skin tone, but the dark brown, Redguard one. The man seemed young, in his mid-twenties.

"I've got a letter from Nalion, right here, won't you see this one?", the Redguard continued.

The guard made a dismissive gesture. "Look, this is a war zone, can't you see? I can't let you into the city with 15 armed men...", the guard answered, looking at the assembled Redguards standing behind the one with the silver sword, apparently their leader.

"We're here to help, not to cause trouble. But we won't give up our weapons either.", the Redguard argued.

"No way, we have looters roaming the city already. I will not let you in unchecked. Final word.", the guard replied, increasingly being annoyed with the Redguard. In the distance, the shouts of the workers who moved the salvageable crabs around can be heard.

"Can't you just send a messenger to whoever is responsible for letting help into the city and give him this letter?", the Redguard asked in a final attempt to convince the guard and offered the Dunmer the piece of parchment.
"Well, it speaks for you that you have not drawn weapons by now. I suppose I can send this message to someone who might be willing to grant you entrance. Which name should I send with it to announce your presence?", the guard asked in a slightly resignating tone.

"Gistral, of Lainlyn." [430] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 06:28 PM

[434] 

Gistral's letter is conveyed to the Duchess, who is currently inside the Nymph and Noggin, directing the restoration of the crabs and organizing the rebuiling of the city - or, more accurately, organizing what rebuiling of the city can be done with their current resources.

"What? A letter from Gistral?" Loranna asks, looking surprised. "And you say he's here, at Ald Raathim?"

"Yes, Your Grace," the messenger replies, seeing the look on Loranna's face and hoping the Duchess won't be upset that a friend of hers was kept at the gates. "Shall I send word to have him and his party admitted?"

"Aye; let Dram know that Gistral and his party are coming into the city," Loranna says as she opens the letter. "I'll meet with Gistral myself shortly."[435] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 10 2006, 06:31 PM

[439] 


Stepping over the heaps of debris and avioding the busy workers Sego approches a Citizin and speaks "Good day sir, I'm sorry to trouble you while you work but i'm looking for someone called Dram.. Think you could point me his way?"

"By all means stranger, Dram could use all the help he can get with these tons of work to be had around these parts. but from the looks of it you might be more usefull helping end the looting" Says the citizen.

Now walking along the destroyed streets Sego finds Himself staring at a man with a few guards around him.. Seems this guys caught himself a looter.

"Need any help there" Sego says " Seems your with the local guards around here think you could point me to someone named Dram, Got told at the pub that hes looking for some help around the City." [440] 

Posted by: Dynate Jan 10 2006, 06:35 PM

Sumary: Dynate hasnt had a much different story than any other soldier out there working, because all he's been doing since the retreat has been out there... working.

Dynate stumbeled to the Nymph and Noggin.
one of the crabs stepped on the dock in the place he had kept the potions, they had smashed and spilt the contents into the sand.
That being, Dynate had been helping people heal by hand, by either placing there feet above there head so the blood would circulate better tword there heart, or cleaning out the wounds of fellow soldiers.
He had just got done tackling a female looter who had broken into the clothiers shop, to try and update her wardrobe.... women!
Chasing looters had warn down his legs, no potions meant no energy.
He tried to lean against a table but it did no good, his exausted legs gave out, he stumbeled onto the floor.
Wanting to call for a mage who could bring back feeling to his legs to pick himself up from the floor, he looked up at all the wounded people around him... should he be that selfish? [441] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 10 2006, 06:43 PM

[445] 
The permission to enter the city was quickly relayed to the gate guards by Dram, and the Dunmer accompanied Gistral and his Redguards to the Nymph and Noggin. The small band of scouts looked in surprise and dismay on the ruined city, many with worried glances. The sight of one of the giant crabs moving slowly through the street caused some shouts of astonishment, wonder and even some fear. Gistral was in conversation with Dram, who briefed him shortly on the accurences over the last days.

The Redguard's features showed worry, and he muttered under his breath. The only thing that could be clearly understood was. "Too late... too late..."

After a while of walking, Gistral and his Redguard companions arrived at the Nymph and Noggin. The Redguards were lightly armoured in leather, all of them carried swords at their sides and bows or slings. They carried bags on their bags meant to store traveling and battle equipment with them.
Among these fifteen or so Redguards was a woman of perhaps 23 years. She was clad in leather like her male companions, and armed with a sword, a sling and a bag of smooth round stones. What distinguished her from the others - other than that she was a woman - was that she carried a lute with her. She had dark red hair, which complimented the dark brown features of her face quite well. She was pretty, despite her slightly angled nose. She seemed to smile frequently, as the thin lines around the corners of her mouth indicated. The Redguard woman was lean, almost skinny, but there was no doubt in the way she carried herself that she was not weak at all.

Seeing the tavern and the wounded, Gistral waved to his companions.
"Go, please use our healing potions on those who need them.", he asked simply. It wasn't a commanding tone, and one of the members of Gistrals group already kneeled by a young Dunmer boy, pulling a blanket out of his backpack.

Gistral motioned to the Redguard woman with the lute. "Please join me, Dana. Loranna is a healer, she will know where she can use your particular skills best."

He approached the Nord and bowed curtly.
"Lady Loranna, I had hoped for more pleasant circumstances for meeting again." [446] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 07:01 PM

[450] 

Loranna rises to greet Gistral, holing her hands out to him. "Hail, Gistral and companions; it's been too long since we've had the pelasure of your company, dear. And yes, I wish we could be meeting again in happier times."

She inclines her head to Gistral's company. "Thank you all for coming; it gives me renewed hope to see friendly faces so soon after this tragedy." With her tearstreaks, it looked like Loranna was quietly crying for joy to see the warriors before her.[451] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 10 2006, 07:13 PM

[455] 
Gistral nodded.
"Nalion sent me a letter. It's the first letter he wrote since he departed from Lainlyn four years ago. And then, it's 'Gistral, I need your help. A city named Ald Raathim in Morrowind is in grave danger. It would be a great relief for me if you would fight by my side again.'"
The Redguard paused.
"Nalion mentioned fighting, and I gathered a few friends. Traveling here proved to be difficult..." The Redguard cursed.

"Gistral had worries that we would be too late all time along the trip.", Dana answered, a worried glance on her face as she saw the wounded. "By the way, if I may introduce myself, I am Dana Myleki Coppersands. Healer, Bard and self-styled adventuress." The Redguard woman grinned slightly at her last comment and tapped her lute. "Please to meet you, Lady Loranna. I would be happy to help wherever my skills are needed." [456] 

Posted by: Dynate Jan 10 2006, 07:26 PM

[460] 

Dynate was just starring up at the ceiling, feeling like a jerk because he was lieing in a space where injured people could be sitting, and here he was taking up all the room, and the whole irony around this was, it was those injured people who caused him the exaustion of running around looking for medical supplys for them putting his injurys away, and it was those same kinds of people that where calling him greedy for taking up room.
He kept on attempting to bring back feeling to his legs, nothing worked, but in that moment he felt himself being lifted off the ground.
"How did i just pick myself up?" Dynate asked alloud
"good question." replied a redgaurd behind him, who just got done placing him in a vacant chair, he handed him a fatigue potion and moved on to move the body of a dead darkelf woman.
"...... so how did I get up?" asked Dynate to a slightly injured Dumner, still clueless as ever
The injured patron just rolled his eyes.

After bringing his body back to a state where he could accually walk he brought himself over to the area near Gistral, he heard someone he didnt know say something about Loranna.
Having never formally met her, Dynate turned "That Loranna... she knows how to keep good company I tell you, you hear that those stars where called down by a friend of hers? and yesterday I saw another member of her party nearly blow a Redorans head clear off with a spell of theres."
He looked over at Loranna
"Hey your that lady from the wedding arent you?" [461] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 07:31 PM

[465] 

P'Rassha was really in bad condition. He suffered blows that would kill even the sturdiest Nord and Redguard. Hopefully, Loranna's restoration skills were given to him in time and after a few seconds, though still fatigued, P'Rassha managed to get back on his feet. Only the blood covering his fur remained as a reminder of the deadly battle that occured only a few hours ago.

"P'Rassha is grateful to Lady Loranna. Thousands thanks to you."

He grabbed his axe and put it back where it belonged after cleaning it a little bit.

"P'Rassha might be able to do something now? Is there a fast way to communicate with the outside world?" [466] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 07:37 PM

[470] 

"Travel in Morrowind is rough these days," Loranna agrees. "But my heart is gladened to see you all the same - and this war is not over yet by a long shot."

Loranna smiles at Dana. "Fellow healers are always welcome; we're using the tavern right now as a impromptu hospital, and the head of the Healers Guild is upstairs, doubtlessly complaining that he's stuck working in a shack again. I'm sure he'd welcome your help."[471] 

[474] 

A nearby guard coughs, and says "Don't you recognize the Duchess of your own city, soldier?"

Loranna, meanwhile,simply raises an eyebrow. "I was at the wedding, yes; I don't believe we got a chance to be introduced." She holds out her hand. "Dres Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raathim; thank you serjo for your valor in defending our city. Your courage will always be remembered."[475] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 07:40 PM

A handsome people, as ever, thought Shaka. He felt a momentary lightheadedness as something in his soul resonated with the Ra'Gada before them, then it passed.

"Gistral, it is good to see you again. The last time we were all in Ald Raathim you, Anya, and I trained in the Arena. You must be the only outsiders to want to help us in our struggle, besides Helseth's Imperials. . . . Pleased to meet you also, Dana." [476] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 07:46 PM

'So here we are,' Faryon remarked, his eyes circling the room, 'to boast about our victories, and dissassemble the defeats,' his eyes fell on Vadon
'If you were more forthcomming about offering help, Faryon, I may not have lost!'
'Forthcomming? I sent you my Parraptons!'
'To spy on me!'
'You two, stop arguing!' Bradas yelled angrily, 'The battle was lost, by the time Faryons troops got there, there would be no chance of winning. If the blame must fall on anyone, let it be me, for not landing my troops at the port'
'You had no chance, admiral,' another councillor replied
'Look, they are comming in, everyone quiet!' someone yelled as the Chairman of the meeting came into the room [477] 

Posted by: Dynate Jan 10 2006, 07:49 PM

[481] 

Dumbly, Dynate sticks out his hand; it wasn’t till the second shake that it hit him: who she was, what he'd done, and how much of an ass he'd just looked like.
"........uh... wow there’s no casual way to respond to something like that mam. But as far as the battle went... I’m an honest man, and I’m not gonna say that I didn’t see allot yesterday I’d care to forget, but don’t remember me, remember the ones that gave more than valor or courage in defending your city... I heard about your spouse... my condolences." [482] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 10 2006, 07:51 PM

[486] 
Gistral nodded, though it was obvious that the thought of coming too late to help in the major battle still nagged on him. He turned to the soldier who spoke up. He was astonished that Loranna let herself so freely be adressed by her soldiers, who did not even introduce himself.
"I truly do hope that Loranna keeps good company, for her sake. Well, aside from a mage who doesn't bother to write an onld friend in four years. Funny that Nalion seems to have met Loranna on a totally different way than I did."

Gistral turned his gaze towards Shaka and smiled.
"Good to see you again, Shaka. It is a favour I return, and return with gladness. Loranna saved my life on Cybiades, and Nalion and I are old friends. It's the least I can do."

Dana looked curiously at Shaka, obviously, she hadn't seen too many Argonians yet.
"Pleasure to meet you, but if you will excuse me, I better join in helping these poor people."
She walked away, her soft boots making no sound on the tavern floor. With a practiced eye, she sought out those who needed her help most. Her hands weaved healing spells where needed, blue light emanating from her fingertips. Various restore potions were dealt out by her to the needy. A crying young girl was quickly taken up in her arms and she began to sing a soothing song, brushing softly through the little girls hair.. [487] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 07:52 PM

[491] 

"I'm grateful to you, dear," Loranna says to P'Rassha, smiling at the big Khajiit. Seeing the look of fatigue in his eyes, she lays a hand on his arm and whispers a small incantation, restoring his fatigue with a warm blue glow.

"We still have the Mages Guild, thank the Nine," Loranna says, looking up at P'Rassha. "Do you know someone who might be able to help us?" she asks, souning a bit hopeful.[492] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 07:54 PM

[496] 

The giant Khajiit smiled, his ears shaking with some kind of childish mischief.

"P'Rassha has friends everywhere. P'Rassha is sure to find someone, somewhere that can help us."[497] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 07:55 PM

Slashes was eager to get going on finding the Redoran camp. He would need help. He turned to Shaka, "We should get going marshbrother. Teh sooner we take out this camp, the better." He saw a very tall blood soaked Khajiit with a battle axe. "You, Khajiit. We could use some help with a Redoran camp. If you are interested in helping us take care of it, I would be gald." [498] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 10 2006, 07:56 PM

[502] 


Dynate would notice a tap on his shoulder, as a certain khajiit mage held a mace over his own shoulder with a grim look. "If by her spouse, you mean me, you're very, very wrong."

Slyvos just grinned, the Mace of Molag Bal making him look more intimidating then he normally would, mainly because well, it was a daedric weapon. And they are imposeing. [503] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 07:58 PM

[507] 

"P'Rassha would be a real asset; maybe our Ra'Gada guests would like to join in too?" said Shaka, as he took his cleaned armor out of the gearbag and donned it.[508] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 07:58 PM

[512] 
Valerius stepped forward, wiping some of the worst gore off his armor. "If I may sir, I could round up the forces while you're gone."[513] 

[516] 
"Redorans?" Reeds said from the corner of the room. He had missed most of the conversation due to the lingering lights in his eyes, "Mind If I come along?" [517] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 08:00 PM

[521] 

P'Rassha turned towards the Argonian, surprised by its direct comment.

"You are the commander Slashes-With-Claws, right? P'Rassha has seen you figthing the Redorans and taking control of the crab. P'Rassha is pleased to meet you."

P'Rassha showed his paw to shake Slashes's hand, but stopped half-way, not sure if it was the right thing to do. Instead, he tried a military salutation that clearly lacked a former training.

"Should P'Rassha should call you commander or Slashes will be ok? P'Rassha never fought with a commanding officer before, just with friends." [522] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 10 2006, 08:10 PM

[526] 
"If you can use any of my companions here, just walk up to them and ask. I'm just the guide here, we're usually a loose bunch of guys. I don't want to order them around too much.", Gistral grinned. "I still have my own healing potions, it's better to hand them out to those who need them right now and do my part in helping your people here. Next time, count on me on accompanying me."
With that, he nodded to Loranna, Shaka and the Argonian who spoke like a commander, and joined Dana in helping the injured. [527] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 08:20 PM

[531] 

"Yes, we should take a few of them, we will need them."[532] 

[535] 

"Yes, do take care of that. We need to see what is left." He said to Valerius.
He noticed Reeds and thought for a moment. "Are you sure you can handle it? These are armed Redorans."[536] 

[539] 

Slashes almost grined. "I am glad to meet you as well. You may call me either, it matters not."

To the group he said, "Come let us go."

They set out in the direction of the supposed camp. In the direction of the netch farms is where they were said to be. [540] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 08:25 PM

[544] 

As they hiked, Shaka described the netch breeders he had stumbled across some months previously. "They're former slaves and ranch hands from the old Dren plantation, in the Ascadian Isles," he said. "Just at the start of the Blue Dawn, they heard all Oblivion was breaking loose and rigged up woven baskets to escape to the mainland, carried by their breeding stock."

"They accepted a little help from Ald Raathim, but they're an independent bunch. The breeders take a lot of pride in the Dren bloodlines of their netches."[545] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 08:28 PM

[549] 

"Slashes-With-Claws then. Don't be mad, but P'Rassha prefers to fight alongside a friend rather than a commander. We will face redoran fighters then."

P'Rassha took a finely craftet Dunmeri ring in his hand and gave it to Slashes.

"It is a burden ring. The redorans are strong, but somehow heavily armored. With this ring, you can hinder the movements of some of them, increasing the weight of their own armor. Mind come in handy." [550] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 08:28 PM

[554] 
"Yessir." With that he turned and exited the Nymph and Noggin for the Barracks.[555] 

[558] 
"So were the guards at Narsis." Reeds replied tersely, strapping on his sabre. [559] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 08:36 PM

[563] 

"Thank you, friend." He put the ring on the stump of his left ring finger. "I will use it."
[564] 

[567] 

"You are right marshbrother. They were." He said, remembering Reeds' first kill.


He listened to Shaka talk about the netches, it was interesting but he had to interupt. "Be quiet now, we should be near them." He sent a few of the redguard scouts for a look, they said there was about ten Redorans camped, they looked like they were getting ready for action. [568] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 08:41 PM

[572] 

P'Rassha took his Bosmeri longbow and one arrow. In his hand, the bow looked incredibly small, but it would be very hard to use for an average Bosmer.

"P'Rassha is ready for action Slashesr. P'Rassha will take the sky."

And without further explanation, P'Rassha leapt on a nearby mushroom-looking tree and with incredible stealth climbed to the top. The Khajiit was huge, but he was still a Khajiit: fast, agile and stealthy. Just before reaching the top, he said:

"I will follow you from the trees, just keep walking."


The party continued among the scarce trees. They noticed P'Rassha leaping from one tree to another, even if they were several meters away from another. The small party soon saw a small firecamp. About ten Redorans were standing around it, fully dressed for battle. At least 2 of them were wearing crossbows. [573] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 08:53 PM

[577] 

Shaka crouched in the brush with the others. He thought of the netch he had borrowed to carry Kethiah and Isidor to their wedding; had it been so short a time ago? And now these Redorans would try for a scorched-earth policy in Daruhn.

The netch breeders had small farms and netch pens not far away, with an all-important difference: they worked for themselves now, not in manacles. Shaka would fight these Redoran fanatics to preserve that freedom for the ex-Dren villagers.

"Not many spellcasters, I think," he muttered to the others. "Let's hit them."[578] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 08:56 PM

[582] 
Reeds moved up to the edge of the brush, the gleam of his sword hidden by the brush and the dried blood from Ald Raathim. "Now?" He asked Shaka quietly, "Wouldn't they have watches set up somewhere? Shouldn't we find those first?" [583] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 09:03 PM

Blacklight[584] 

[587] 

Muthsera Hlaalu Mortillara, chairman of the Alliance Military Offensive, was an elderly Dunmeri female with steel-gray hair, a slight stoop, and eyes that made powerful soldiers tremble when they fell on them. As one of the independent Hlaalu nobles who had not sided with the King, she had assumed the position of Chairman because of her neutrality: she would not side with either the Indoril or the Redoran, but the side that was right.

Her much younger lover Hlaalu Daris helped her take her seat.

"I have been going over the reports," she said, her voice low and authoritative. "I think there is little need to celebrate our successes so soon. Let us first talk of our failures, why they occured, and what we can do to capitalize on our situation."

She took a moment to look over those assembled.

"Our first failure," she said. "Mournhold was not taken. The King and Queen still live." [588] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 09:03 PM

[592] 

Slashes watched the Khajiit. He used to do that in his youth. Probably still could if he had lighter armor on.

It looked like the Redorans were going to be an easy target.[593] 

[596] 

"Yes, we should hit them fast, while we have surprise."[597] 

[600] 

We sent a few of the redguard warriors to check for watches while they hit the main camp.

"Here we go." He drew his claymore which he had been sharpening as they traveled, it was ready for battle again. He put it in his off hand, his left and had a steel throwing knife in his right. He threw the knife and screamed, "Kill them!" He charged the group sending a burdon spell at one. [601] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 09:08 PM

[605] 

The Redorans heard the argonian's order and reacted quickly. It seems they were pretty sure someone would attacked them considering the speed at which they all turned back to face the attackers.

No really all of them, because a single Redoran wasn't able to raise on his feet and unsheath his sword, the weight on his shoulder being way to heavy for his muscles.

The Redorans were ready for an attack from the ground, but not from above. Just as a redoran leaped in the shadow, he was knocked back into the light of the firecamp, an arrow in his shoulder. [606] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 09:13 PM

[610] 
'I heard, rumours' began Faryon, 'That High Councillor Thedas died in the assult, and that it was his death that lead to the defeat'
Whispers went through the room, the leader of House Indoril died on the assult?
'How could the death of a commander lead to defeat?' Vadon chucled, Faryon ignored him
'We dont know if he did or not, but as you can see here, though,' Faryon guestured to two empty seats, 'both he and his second in command is absent. I still hold out hope that our leader is alive, but if these rumours would have spread through our forces, that the Commander was killed, True or not, the troops would become demoralized.'
'As of present, we dont have any information about the Battle for Mournhold, Faryon, how can you make predictions like that?'
'Its just what they are, predictions on what Ive heard. So far as my intelegence indicates, that was the reason for defeat, but we will know more once the Assult force reach Narsis' Faryon looked around the room to see if anyone else would speak [611] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 09:15 PM

As Shaka charged the camp, a part of his mind noted the Redorans looked not too different from their Ald Raathim counterparts: veterans by now, battle-weary. He wielded his ebony axe this day, leaving the Spear slung on his back for the moment.

He parried a Redoran sword before attempting to cut through his enemy's bonemold armor on the backswing.

[612] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 09:21 PM

Reeds charged forward with his companions, his opponent aiming a slash at his abdomen. He parried, Reeds' sabre making a nasty-sounding wrenching of metal. As he brought his sword up to parry the Redoran's next swing, he saw a gash in his sabre, as if acid had eaten through it. The third swing revealed a second acid mark, and the first was getting bigger... Wanting to end this quickly before he didn't have a weapon left, Reeds feinted to the side, then cut under at the gap between the cuirass and greaves. [613] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 09:23 PM

Blacklight[614] 

[617] 

"Always an interesting conundrum," Mortillara frowned. "If the leaders of our Alliance do not go into battle with the troops, it hurts morale. If they do and are killed, it hurts morale. It would be wise in the future for us to have more than one charismatic commander to rally the soldiers, particularly on an offensive as essential as Mournhold."

The Chairman's eyes had gone briefly to Muthsera Barreth at his seat. The King's cousin, the mer they wanted to place on his throne, had not participated in any battles, claiming it was too important for him to stay alive. If any had any doubt how much the Chairman had respected his decision, it could be settled right there. She disliked him, but she hated the King even more.

"Another issue that seems to have occured in both Ald Raathim and Mournhold," she continued. "Is that the supposedly neutral Mages Guild took side against us. I will be lodging a complaint with the Emperor and Archmagister Hannibal Traven about that. If we are to respect the Guild and not treat them as an enemy, they must not involve themselves. What else led to our failure in Ald Raathim?" [618] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 09:24 PM

Slashes fought with some of his earlier vigor, but not as much. His claymore making broud swings tht the enely could not get through. He shopped through his opponent's cuirass and his ribcage with a swing. Quickly he moved onto his next target. [619] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 09:30 PM

[623] 

Slashes-with-Claws attacks were quick and efficient. It was clear the redorans were facing men and beastmen, but they had to split their force around the fire, protecting the rear of the camp, in case reinforcement came from behind.

A single soldier, close to the firecamp in the middle of the circle made by the redorans, took a scroll out of a scrollcase. Before he could open it, though, an arrow came from the sky and fetch it from the spellcaster's hands. The arrow ended its journey in the fire, the burning scroll still attached to it. [624] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 10 2006, 09:37 PM

[628] 

Shaka noted that the odds were more even now; they had attacked the Redorans with slightly fewer fighters, but several of the enemy were on the ground and either dead or out of the fight.

He reached behind his neck and touched the Spear of Bitter Mercy, calling up a storm atronach. Shaka didn't bother to have the atronach run at the foe. Judging from the enemies' reactions, the tide of battle had shifted in the adventurer's favor.[629] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 09:38 PM

[633] 

'Bradas did not land his fleet! We lost the battle because he would not commit!' Vadon yelled, pointing an accusing finger to Bradas

'The beachhead was lost! How could I land when someone let the enemy commindeer thier crabs... Not to mention that somthing crashed into the harbour destroying the beachhead. I think the troops would be more use to Redorian and the war in general if they were alive, not dead in a futile attempt to take the harbour.'

'Then why did you not advance faster?' Vadon asked, eyes narrowed

'Because, it was like the Three themselves were conspiring against me! The winds changed making advancement up the harbour dredfully slow, then the Fire from the sky defeating the crabs that had taken the beachhead. By the time we were in a position to attack, the battle had already been lost!'

'If I may interject' Faryon started, intterupting Vadon who was obviously going to bash Bradas some more, 'I believe that the war was lost because the enemy found a severe weakness in the crabs, and exploited it. I also believe that the crabs were used unwisely, as troop carriers rather than what they seem to be useful as, Siege Engines. The results at the Battle of Vivec show how effective these weapons can be used in thus manner. Also, for future models of the Crabs, the hatches must be more securly locked, to prevent entry by enemy troops from siezing control of it. Bradas was not at fault, infact I believe he did the right thing by withdrawing once he saw the battle had been lost.' [634] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 09:39 PM

[638] 

With the sudden appearance of an atronach on the battle scene, the redorans lost all will to fight. Several of them simply layed down their weapons while some of them just took a few steps back.

The spellcaster who, judging by its look was the leader of the unit, raised his hand and said:

"We don't want to fight you, we came to surrender." [639] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 09:43 PM

[643] 

Slashes stopped in midswind, turning the sword in a new arc and holding it at the ready.

"You came to surrender?" He hissed. "Why are you dressed for battle then?" He took the sword of his foe. He called teh redguad that were with them to help secure the enemies weapons. [644] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 09:45 PM

[648] 
Reeds waved off the reguard that came for the Redoran that he was fighting. He gestured to the Redoran's blade in his hand. "In my land it is often honorable that the victor obtains his opponent's sword, and that is a marvelous blade." The redoran handed it and the scabbard over without fuss. [649] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 09:46 PM

Blacklight[650] 

[653] 

"From what I understand, I agree," the Chairman nodded her head. "The battle had already been lost by then, and there is no honor in compounding that. There was an addition defeat that should be discussed. While we were pushing into Vivec, Ald Raathim, Mournhold, Tel Silgrid, and other points, Helseth pushed into Solsteim, and took it. I think it's safe to say that he would not call it an even trade, but we were kept completely off guard by that. Our intelligence to the north needs to be strengthened. I am making connections with the Nords to facilitate that."
[654] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 09:49 PM

[658] 

The redoran noticed the redguard but tried to keep his composure, he did walked towards his fallen friend and checked the vital signs. He continued, with pain in his voice.

"My name is Daevir Franath, redoran lieutnant. I fought just like you in the battle of Ald Raathim. Before that battle, I would have died for my general, but that was before he ordered the siege crabs to trample everything in the city, including my own batallion.

24 of my men died in that battle, only 2 at the hands of the defenders. There is only 9 of us remaining, considering you also killed Flerik.

I don't want to fight anymore. Do what you want with us, but we don't want to spill our blood anymore." [659] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 09:55 PM

[663] 

Slshes understood, The crabs trampeling their own men was a most despicable act of a desperate commander. He sheethed his claymore. "Very well. You shall come with us back to Ald Raathim." He checked the enemy for further weapons such as concealed knives. He got the rest rounded up and ordered a return to the city with the prizes. [664] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 09:56 PM

[668] 

A minor Indoril councellor frowns at the mention of contacting the Nords, but keeps his peace. Still, his crimson eyes narrow as he continues to listen to the proceedings.

They were finally making headway in getting the N'Wah out of Morrowind and now this Hlaalu bag of bones was talking about pussyfooting around with the hairy barbarians of the north. But then, the Hlaalu always acted like their skill in negotiating and placating outlanders was something to be proud of...[669] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 09:58 PM

[673] 

Another councillor spoke next, 'Speaking of the nords, they have been aufully quiet lately, with the western front and Windhelm, wouldnt the fall of Solsteim be viewed as a act of war against the Nords? Although it may be territorily a part of Morrowind, no Morrowind Army has ever had any real control there. Now that Outlander Hethen sends his troops there, there could be problems with the Nords in the future'
'And we in the south have problems with consolidating what we captured in the Northern Assult from Bodrum Mora,' an Indoril commander spoke next
'I think,' an old Indoril councillor, from the early days, old enough to remember the time of Tiber Septim 'this has actually been a defeat for our forces, this battle. We had three main Objectives, only one was taken. We took Tel Sigrid, and vast tracts of lands to the south, but what else? we control the Deshaan Plain, but there is no major strongpoint there, apart from a few villages. For all of the effort of Material and Men that we threw into this campain, we have gained very little'
There was a murmur from the croud, and a silence
'And where is Almalexia? She should be here to gloat, or at least punish us'
once more a murmer passed through the crowd [674] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 10 2006, 10:06 PM

[678] 

The lieutnant bowed and cooperated with Slashes-With-Claws.

"Just allow us to bring Flerick's corpse with us. To make sure he can meet his ancestors."

Without a single word, Franath's men accepted to follow Slashes's men to Ald Raathim. P'Rassha climbed down from his mushroom and made quite a commotion among the redorans. It seemed the Khajiit made a powerful impression during last night's fight, but the travel back to the city was pretty calm otherwise. [679] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 10:07 PM

[683] 

"I will make certain it is viewed exactly as that, an act of aggression against Skyrim," Mortilla smiled slightly. "Windhelm has been watching Helseth's rise with smoldering concern that can easily be stoked. At this time, I only want to use them for intelligence gathering in the northern sea, but they may make useful if temporary allies in the future."[684] 

[687] 

"We took Vivec," the Chairman said. "And annihiliated the Muatramer's hold on many shrines in Vvardenfell. We hurt Helseth severely, and if we act quickly and wisely, we can keep him on the defensive until he has nothing left. I do not want us to celebrate our victories too much, but let us not despair. The wind is turning in our favor ... As for Our Lady ... Moonstone assures me that she is still smiling on us with favor."

In truth, the Hlaalu noblewoman did not believe Almalexia was a true Goddess. But that was a discussion for her more inner sanctum, not this group of squabbling councilors.
[688] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 10 2006, 10:10 PM

[692] 

Slashes allowed them to take the body. When they reached the city he had some of his men take the prisioners to cells. As he walked towards the barracks the potion that had been keeping him going wore off, three days of almost no sleep and constant action finally caught up with him. The world tilted and went black. He fell to the ground with a metalic crash, limp, not far from the barracks.

OOC: Out for the night. [693] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 10:13 PM

[697] 

A scrow across the Old Indorils mouth, and he whispered under his breath so that only those next to him could make it out, 'If the duke of Morrowind was still around, he would have not believed in this "Moonstone"'
'Then what next?' Asked Faryon, 'Although applealing to the Nords in the North may secure the northern front around the Capital, in the south there are sill large problems with the slave rebellions and such. Our armies are more dispured than ever trying to contain them,' he paused for a second, 'And Im worried about Imperial Legions. Kragenmoor is close to the border, if the Emperor sends an army to back up Hesleth, I dont think we, with our dispursed army, could take them. And then also, what should our next move be?' [698] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 10:14 PM

[702] 

The Indoril counceller speaks up. "And if the Nords come to strike at Helseth, what is to keep them from not overstaying their welcome? They're grasping, boisterous men who take any excuse to take over another's land; just look at the harlot in Ald Raathim for proof of that. You would invite wolves in to bite at the usurper's heels; will you drive them out when he's gone and they look to bite ours?" [703] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 10 2006, 10:19 PM

[707] 
Valerius came out of the barracks, less his armor, to look for Slashes. He had a (very) preliminary count ready for him, and the numbers were not good. He found the commander passed out on the street. Hefting the Argonian up, he moved him to a safer location.

OOC: See Slashes. [708] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 10:28 PM

Blacklight[709] 

[712] 

"That's what we're here to decide," Mortilla said, glaring at the Indoril whispering, though she couldn't tell what he was saying. "I do agree that the south needs to be aided, but we cannot afford another large scale assault."[713] 

[716] 

Mortilla turned to him, her eyes quick and aggressive, as if to tell him to watch his tone.

"We must be bold, and we mustn't discount out of hand using Helseth's other enemies against him if they may be of use," she said. "Including his stepsister."

(OOC -- Outta here for a few minutes ...) [717] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 10:33 PM

[721] 

At this point, most of the assembled members stopped thier idle conversation and looked at the Chairwoman, 'Is it... well wise to trust such a woman?' One asked
'I heard they called her the new Wolf Queen' another replied
'She would surely betray us, all that woman is interestd in is power!'
'In the Duke of Morrowind's days, Dunmer did not call apon the help of Outlanders,' the old Indoril said straightly, 'Why should we do it now?' [722] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 10:43 PM

[726] 

"Exactly my point," the young Indoril says, ignoring Mortilla's piercing gaze. "You speak of needing to be bold, yet in the same breath you would tell us to make deals with the N'Wah. Why did our brothers and sisters spill their blood all these months if not to finally avenge the centuries of oppression brought on by these dogs? And now, you would bring new N'Wah into Morrowind to replace the ones they died to drive out! Their souls wail in frustration from across the Waiting Door to see their sacrifice so treated."

"There are problems controlling the slaves in the south? We have dealt with unruly slaves for thousdands of years; we do not need outlander help in contolling them. You worry the Emperor will send an army? We have the gifts of the True Gods at our disposal, an now with our experiences in these past few days, may ALMSIVI bless us with the wisdom to make proper use of them. The warcrabs crushed the Imperial forces in Vivec and all over VVardenfell; we have seen in Ald Raathim what we must beware and will not let the enemy get so close the next time. The Emperor will find his forces shattered underneath the might of the Tribunal and their faithful, assuming he isn't too busy trying to hold the rest of his Empire together." [727] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 10:54 PM

[731] 

'If you have noticed, that it seems the Tribunal favour the Redorians. There has not been a single visit by one of its members to Indoril lands since the war begain. We have fought sofar without the Tribunal assisting us, and we have won much, Kragenmoor, Tear, Tel Sigrid, the Dreshaan Plain. Compare that to what the Redorians have conquored? They have been stuck in a war of attrition over some silly rock, which, not even with the help of the three they have been able to take! If the Tribunal cannot hope to defeat the last of the Rebel forces on Vvanderfell, how can they hope to stop the Imperial Armies from Interviening?' Faryon said, his voice raised at being questioned like that [732] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 10:56 PM

[736] 

"In the ancient days, which you and I remember well," the Chairman said, meeting the old Indoril's eyes with the same intensity. "The Great Houses were led by Dunmer of action and intelligence. They were capable of coming up with solutions, not mewing like insipid children over every misfortune, pointing fingers instead of taking responsibility. They also did not jump to conclusions. Try to live up to their legacy, serjo."[737] 

Posted by: Dynate Jan 10 2006, 11:02 PM

[741] 

"arrrrg" Dyn groaned, he put his head on the table, "Sorry sir, it's been a long night, so many people died who knows who I got you mixed up with. and you know how gossip is." [742] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 11:05 PM

[746] 

A Redoran knight growls "We have been fighting the forces of the damnable N'Wah's mockery of the Blessed ALMSIVI, fighting to reclaim the holy land sacred in the hearts of every Dunmer. We have been fighting the lies and moral decay the white-haired witch and those she had duped since we agreed to this alliance, for the sake of the hearts and the honor of the Dunmer people. I'll thank you not to brush off our own achievements - or the sacrifiices made in obtaining them - so lightly, Serjo."[747] 

[750] 

The Indoril counceller stays silent for now, though from his posture he clearly resents the Chairman's biting words to his House elder ...[751] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 10 2006, 11:06 PM

[755] 

Most of the room fell quiet at this remark, as the people begain to look around uneasily. She was right, they all knew

(ooc, sorry, Ted, Lor, but Time has conspired against me, I have to get going, but feel free to continue on without me[756]  [757]  [758] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 10 2006, 11:08 PM

[762] 

"it's alright... just don't jumble up the truth or believe rumors anymore, and you'll do fine around here." The khajiit patted Dynate on the shoulder, shaking his head as he turned around to walk out of the building. He apparently was barely holding in a chuckle at the whole situation.... but, back to work with him. [763] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 11:20 PM

Blacklight[764] 

[767] 

"Noble friends," the Chairman said, her voice softer now. "We cannot begin every meeting with a reminder than we are an alliance, for it is a bloody waste of time, but these ceaseless arguments are an even greater waste. Remember, we share the same goals. We will destroy the usurper, his traitorous Dres wife, and all his villainous cohorts. We will place his cousin, good Hlaalu Barreth, on the throne, as the Imperial treaty of old demands, but he will give the power of rule to the Houses, as it always should be."

Mortilla's young lover gave her a flagon of mazte to help her with her throat which was sounding dry.

"We do not need to negotiate with the Queen of Wayrest, but she has petitioned the alliance to be of service," she continued. "I brought up the subject because before we decide our next strategic move, we must discuss not only where trouble lies, but what advantages we have that we can use. A man does not begin to build a house before counting his gold, and we should know what our fortune is before proceeding with what needs doing. Even if we decide there is some gold we do not want to spend." [768] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 11:29 PM

[772] 

Right; and your House will doubtless go right back to licking the Imperial's feet like the dogs you've always been, the Indoril counceller thinks to himself. You've no intention of actually carrying out the wishes of our ancestors or our people who have suffered under the outlanders' yoke. You're only working with us now because Helseth, worm that he is, recognized a fellow worm and cut you out of his inner circle.

The Redoran speaks up, clearing his throat and looking more subdued as he harumphs "We control all of Vvardenfell now; only Molag Mar remains untaken and they have no chance of doing anything. Thus, we control the ebony, and we have shown the Outlander 'Tribunal' for the weak dogs that they are. Those two avantages alone are considerable."
[773] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 10 2006, 11:39 PM

Blacklight[774] 

[777] 

"If Ald Raathim is surrounded on all sides, they too should be helpless," the Chairman added. "I believe we still have spies in the Duchess's household, do we not?"
[778] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 10 2006, 11:57 PM

[782] 

The Redoran looks a touch uncomfortable. "We do," he says, adding " ... Ald Raathim is not quite surrounded yet; we do not yet have total control of the land to their west, so they technically retain a path to the Cyrodiil border ..."

"Are you implying we cannot block them off from Tel Sigrid?" the young Indoril asks the Redoran, his lips pulling into a tight frown that looks just a little smug.

"We did lose a number of the warcrabs to Ald Raathim; at least some of them may remain operational," the Redoran mutters. "And we lost the seacrabs; if any of those still function, they could wreck havoc on our control of the Inner Sea even without their navy ..."[783] 

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Jan 11 2006, 01:07 AM

Dastril woke up from his deep slumber. He had fallen asleep on the chair. He reach out to his bag and took a little sip from his healing potion. Just in case. Then he got up, and decided to go and see if he could get anything to eat from the kitchen. [784] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 11 2006, 01:15 AM

[788] 

"That is true," the Chairman replies, looking briefly at the young Indoril, and then at his elder House leader. Instruct your Houseman to mind his manners the look said. Or I will. "But for the time being at least, Ald Raathim would be foolish to indulge in an offensive, and I do not think them very foolish. We should put scouts in their land to the west, as that is their only land path. Unlike the royalty of Mournhold, the Duchess and her people regularly make use of the Mages Guild transport system as well -- they should be easy to track."
[789] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 01:27 AM

[793] 

While the elder Indoril whispers to his younger, less-experienced Houseman, the Reoran counceller says "This is true; the Duchess has rarely if ever acted as though she had any real sense of disguising her intentions. Also, right now the Mage Guild is their only real recourse for getting supplies into their city; if we continue to raze their farmlands, we can take advantage of their dependance on the guild guides and sabotage their efforts at bypassing our blockades."

He lapses into silence again for a moment, before adding "If we do call upon the services of the Queen Elysana, we should keep in mind - the Count Sternhart, one of the Queen's more wealthy supporters, has strong financial ties to Ald Raathim. How much influence he has over the Queen, I do not know, but it is something we should keep in mind - and, perhaps, exploit."[794] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 11 2006, 01:43 AM

[798] 

Mortilla smiled. "I did not know that. Of course, I know the Queen's reputation, and I agree with all that she will be an ally whom one should not turn one's back on, but she smells her stepbrother's blood and will get involved one way or another, so we would be wise not to ignore her ... As for their transportation, like I said, I am lodging a complaint with the Archmagister about the Mournhold and Ald Raathim Guilds lack of neutrality in Morrowind's affairs. Since we know that door's open to the Duchess and her heroes, we should discuss whether it should be shut, or allowed to stay open so we can watch it."


[799] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 01:56 AM

[803] 

The Redoran considers. " ... Ald Raathim has proven remarkably resourceful in the past," he says. "When Azura's followers were sweeping over all Vvardenfell and western Morrowind, they were the only city to resist them - and at the time, they were little more than a refugee camp in the middle of a sleepy village so insignifigant that the Dres did not mind it being run by a Khajiit and a former slave. Since then, they went from being nothing to becoming one of the largest and most influential cities in the west. I fear, if we allow them any chance whatsoever, that they will seize it and run with it; it would perhaps be prudent to deny them any way out of their city, force their capitulation."

"My main concern there is, if we do that, we will drive them to desperation. And few things scare me more than the thought of the champions that defeated Azura on Hogithum itself becoming desperate. Near the end of the battle, shooting stars were pulled down upon our forces; by what reports I have received, it was one of the Duchess's close companions who performed that feat. I dare not think what they might try to do if they felt they had nothing left to lose."

A scowl comes to the Redoran's face. "Ideally, what we want is for them to be too busy trying to recover to be of any further aid to the royalist movement, yet not so desperate that they'll try anything. We should, perhaps, let them recover to some degree, but ensure that they have no energy to do anything but. If you see my reasoning, Sera."[804] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 11 2006, 02:09 AM

[808] 

For a moment, the Chairman thought of another possibility: wooing Ald Raathim to join the Alliance. It was something she had suggested close to a year ago, when the war was still one of words, not blood. It struck her then, as now, as eminently reasonable – after all, Helseth was no great friend of Ald Raathim. But the Redoran and Indoril had balked at the idea of an alliance with an outlander Nord claiming sovereignty over a territory in Morrowind. Ousting her and her allies had been the strategy embraced. Mortilla put that thought from her mind yet again.

“Keep them busy, but not desperate,” the Chairman nodded. “That sounds like a good goal. We will have to turn our back on trade coming into their port, but send saboteurs in so that they are forever rebuilding.”[809] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 02:18 AM

[813] 

The Redoran nods. "Sometimes, it is better to wound your enemies and force their people to tend to them than it is to kill them outright," he says. "Ald Raathim was Helseth's biggest port here in the west; he had several trade routes re-routed through Ald Raathim to increase his profits. Now, he has a port city that lacks a navy and is cut off from the rest of his lands, yet is not quite dead yet; either he will be forced to protect his investments in this city, tying up resources he could be using elsewhere, or he will have to outright abandon Ald Raathim."

He pauses, looks around the table a bit, and says " ... And if he does that, I suspect he will lose Ald Raathim entirely. As much as the outlander Duchess is a blight upon the land, she seems to care for the motley bunch of Betmer and N'Wah that comprise her city. I do not think she would continue fighting for a King who left her people to starve."[814] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 11 2006, 02:29 AM

[818] 

"I think she will still hate us more, and we will have broken their alliance but not their enmity of us," the Chairman mused. "I agree with the strategy for now, to keep Ald Raathim wounded, but not destroy them completely ... But eventually, even if we have to wait until the ear-clipper is off the throne, we will have to formulate a plan to make Loranna give up her rule. The stalemate can only last so long, but time is on our side in this."
[819] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 02:37 AM

[823] 

"It shouldn't be too hard to forment unrest in her city," the Redoran says. "Her people will be hungry, and scared; there is no effective way she can restore her city's defenses, and even if there were, we can stymie her attempts now that she is without her navy. All we have to do is keep a bit of pressure up, and let her people know that we would be happy to accept their surrender and give them our protection. They'll demand she step down, and we'll have a slightly broken but still servicable port to the Inner Sea."

"Not to mention all our slaves who ran to hide behind her walls back," the young Indoril mutters, having kept a figiting silence till now. "Even before the war she was stealing slaves from their rightful owners ..."[824] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 11 2006, 02:46 AM

[828] 

"Yes, the old ways will be restored to Morrowind, we just have to be patient and wear them down a bit," the Chairman nodded. "And speaking of which, I move for a break. We'll be receiving new intelligence shortly, but I think our plan of giving Ald Raathim some breathing room to keep them from being desperate, but initiating periodic raids and acts of sabotage to keep them busy is a very good one, to be initiated immediately."
[829] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 02:56 AM

[833] 

"Seconded," the Redoran says, somewhat gratefully; a little fresh air and a chance to visit the toilet were at the top of his mind.

The young Indoril rubs his temples, keeping his face carefully nuetral as he muses The old ways ... what does a Hlaalu know of the old ways? Your House was nothing before the Empire came and you took the chance to backstab the rest of us; you don't want the old ways, you want the Empire to go back to petting you instead of Helseth. Make no mistake old bag; the old ways will return ... and you and your House will be put back in their proper place in the scheme of things.

To think that good soldiers had sacrificed themselves at Molag Mar, at Mournhold, so that this woman could talk about defecating on their cherished ideals just to grab power ...[834] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 11 2006, 08:23 AM

Sego finaly awakes staggering about while trying to get his fottings. "ohhh what happened last night" Sego studders. Looking around himself all Sego could find to remember the happnings of last night was a pitcher and a ton of empty Shien and Matze bottles all eminating the stench of day old warm beer.
"ohh..what a night... OH CRAP.. The Redoran camp. [censored]. I think they left without me.." Sego now fianly able to regain his barings begins to stroll mudering many inchoesive things to himself.

"Yes.. Well I guess." ......."They win?"......."Ahh why not, but more important." "anyways." Sego Continues to mudder to Himself

"Ahh well I guess i should return to the...Nyphh and Noggen was it? maybe they've returned from the hunt.. Hopefully they found a camp so maybe now I wont have them all second guessing my humble intentions."

Sego continues his walk and comes by a nearby Potion Shop.. Upon opening the door Sego is greeted with a sudden. " You bastards! You think i'm gonna sit by and let you brigiands loot my store!" The engraged storekeep yells while swinging a blunt iron longsword Segos way. Sego hung over but still able to react doges the sword and grabs the lady arm and disarms her. " Ohh please don't kill me please!" She screams.

"I'm not here to kill you, you crazy old hoot! I'd like to buy me some restore potions i'm under the weather at the moment." Sego says with a snicker. Fianly after the little ordeal was cleared out and Sego got his pick me up for the day He finaly arrived at the local pub and walked inside to have Himself a set untill those he met yesterday would return. [835] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 01:52 PM

[839] 

Shaka was concerned, but not surprised, to see Slashes' collapse. He watched as Valerius carried the officer to his rest. "Well done, sir," nodded Shaka, though the commander couldn't hear him.

The battlemage continued to the Nymph and Noggin. Shaka was a little disgusted with himself for fighting a group of Redoran deserters; he might have helped kill them all if they hadn't surrendered and explained their situation. But that was wartime for you. One improvisation after another.

As battered and crowded as it was, the Nymph and Noggin was a beckoning sight. [840] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 11 2006, 02:01 PM

[844] 


Sego darting his eyes all around the Nymph and Noggin finaly found someone who he had recognised from the last time in the pub. Getting up and walking twards the character Sego starts to speak"You there. Shaka isn't it? What happened you guys left without me. Did you guys find the Redoran encampment? Sego starts to wonder if they did and if any losses occuored. Looking around the bar once more he didn't seem to see any others that left as well. "Did everyone make it back ok?" [845] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 02:10 PM

[849] 

"One of theirs dead, some injuries on our part but no deaths. The Redorans didn't have the stomach for a fight to the end, after seeing what their own side did with the warcrabs."

"The commander is out cold from exhaustion, but his men will probably let him sleep. I need to get a beer, if there's any left."

Shaka excused himself and walked to the taproom to see how many others were still there. The nymph in Diamond's wall sculpture was looking a little soot-stained, but Shaka was glad to see the Breton's artwork throughout the tavern looked intact, as far as he could judge from here. [850] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 11 2006, 04:28 PM

[854] 


Sego following closley behind Shaka thinks to himself well im guessing when the others return they are going to speak with him first maybe I should stay nearby so I can catch them sooner and aplogize. Sego still following Shaka decides to wait outside the Taproom trying not to draw to much suspision.

OOC: anyways im about to get nice a drunk here so please when the rest of you log on due mind my [censored] spellin [855] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 06:36 PM

[859] 


As for P'Rassha, it was time for a cleaning. Two fights-one mass battle and a skirmish-in a row was too much for his fur to handle. He was stained by dark dry blood from feet claws to head.

That being done pretty fast, he reached the Nymph and Noggin, searching for Lady Loranna again. As always, when not actively trying to hide, P'Rassha's presence was obvious. [860] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 06:53 PM

[864] 

P'Rassha finds Loranna busily talking with several merchants; from the looks on their faces, neither side was giving the other news they wanted to hear.

Seeing P'Rassha, Loranna excuses herself. "Yes dear; what is it?" she asks. [865] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 06:58 PM

[869] 

The large Khajiit seemed uneasy to interrupt a business meeting, but since Loranna didn't seem to be offended by his intrusion, he continued

"P'Rassha is back from the raid. We have captured 9 deserters who lost their will to fight after the enemie's crabs trampled their own troops. As a whole it was a success.

But P'Rassha is here for other things. Lady Loranna said to P'Rassha it is possible to communicate with the outside world. If its possible, P'Rassha can at least call some friends. Good friends in Cyrodiils that could at least slow down the enemies in the Velothi Mountains." [870] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 07:05 PM

Shaka began thinking out loud. "We've stabilized a lot of the wounded; we need to start thinking about what to do next, since the enemy seems to have left us a breathing space."

"We should get the remaining troops back on their feet and helping out, rebuilding the defenses to begin with. The civilians can pitch in to repair the housing as well as the defenses."

"Loranna's company should start to take the fight to the enemy instead of waiting like animals for the slaughter. Maybe start supply caravans and guard them. Raise funds somehow . . . ."[871] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 07:07 PM

[875] 

Loranna raises her eyebrows. "Deserters?" she asks, looking thoughtful. "I would like to speak with them soon ..."

"The Mage Guild remains open; despite some firebombing they never took that out," Loranna continues. "Or if you prefer to travel by land, well ... there's a few things we can do. We'd have to discuss further."

"Tell me; how exactly did the raid go? Did anything unusual happen or anything notable strike you?" Loranna querries.[876] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 07:14 PM

[880] 

P'Rassha raised his eyes and stared at the ceiling for a while, thinking:

"Well, P'Rassha isn't really good at these kind of things. P'Rassha likes things that are obvious and nothing obvious struck P'Rassha.

They fought without their hearts and, actually, P'Rassha thought all the enemies were zealots ready to die for the ALMSIVI. P'Rassha was wrong since they were not. Apart from that, P'Rassha think Slashes-With-Claws has gone to bed, completly exhausted by the event s of the last days."

P'Rassha then changed subject completly:

"P'Rassha can use the Mage Guild. P'Rassha only needs to send a message to some friends and I can have a platoon of soldiers ready to help us. " [881] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 07:17 PM

[885] 

Loranna looks somewhat amazed. "I didn't realize P'Rassha had that many friends," she says, grinning a little. "When did you befriend a whole platoon, dear, and who are these people?"[886] 

Posted by: Korkov Jan 11 2006, 07:17 PM

pie [887] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 07:31 PM

Shaka added: "A few of us, notably Anya and Reichi, have experience as assassins. Maybe the heads of the House Redoran and Indoril should be targets. Let them know fear, since they seem to like to employ it themselves."

"Also, seeing our Redguard friends makes me wonder if we can find allies elsewhere. The Nords, the orcs, the Ra'Gada . . . . Something to think about, even if we have to make territorial or other concessions to allies."
[888] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 07:36 PM

Dana kept tending to the wounded in the Nymph and Noggin and happened to come across a young Dunmer boy with his arm bandaged. Smiling and kneeling down to the boy, she brushed his cheek.
"Hey dear, does your arm hurt?", she asked.

The little boy looked at ther Redguard with burning red eyes, shock over what the youth had to see the last days was still visible in his face. It took him a while to find the courage to answer.
"Not anymore, L - Lady.", he stammered, staring at the ground first, then gazing at her again. "Are you, are you a hero?"

Dana laughed softly, a sound that pleasantly ringed over the moans of the wounded and the people walking around tending the injured.
"No, I'm not a hero, I'm not even a Lady. I'm a healer and a bard, I sing songs. I'm Dana."

The Dunmer boy looked at her curiously, slowly losing his shyness after hearing her laugh. "Do you sing songs of heroes then?"

"Yes, I do. Many heroes have their own songs.", she answered, patting the lute in the bag on her side.

"Can you sing one for me?", the boy asked, pulled his knees to his chest and rested his chin on them, waiting expectantly. Dana laughed again.
"Such a nice boy, yes, I think I can sing a song, for you and everyone here. A song of a hero of my homeland. His name was Hallin."

She pulled the lute out of her bag, probed the strings, struck a melodic chord and began to sing.

"Art and old Virtues, gone with the sand,
Halls are empty, the Way left the land.
Old legacies, forgotten almost,
Few remember what gained us this coast.

Divad, Singer and Bard of legend old,
Crafted five swords, so the stories have told,
Banished the giants from our lands,
Sealed the rift and cleaned these sands!

Victory! Victory! Yet one burden was left,
To safeguard these swords from misuse and theft,
In his last glorious deed, Divad hid each blade,
Under guard by five Ansei, swordmasters great.

Time then passed and our nation grew,
But our legacy weakened where it was mixed with the new.
Few now hold the spirit, heed Hundings gift,
And the enemy struck again, so fierce and swift!

Giant hordes of goblins, ugly and green,
Soiled the land which was of beauty, and clean,
Swept over our homes and ravaged the land,
Be it grass, be it city or the desert's sand! ..."

Dana began to play an interlude, it's chimes transporting a desperate cry for help and a hero... [889] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 07:37 PM

[893] 

"Somehow," Loranna says, a frown creasing her face, "I suspect higher heads than ours have already put such plans in motion - and I promised myself I wouldn't stoop to using assassins against my enemies no matter how many they threw at me. Espionage is one thing; cold blooded murder another."

"As for seeking other allies ... I'm thinking on that," Loranna continues. "The Nords might be willing, given the presence of the Nords here in Ald Raathim; the orcs, I don't know; Orisium is a long ways off ..."

I can't believe Shaka said that, Loranna thinks to herself, staring at her Argonian friend.[894] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 07:54 PM

[898] 

Shaka looked back at Loranna's expression, and then his face softened, though only Anya and a few others might have been able to tell. "I know this is unusual, coming from me, Your Grace. I guess it's a reaction to seeing how these rebel fanatics are so eager to kill our people. They've left a legacy of suffering in Daruhn and elsewhere that will send ripples out for generations to come."

"They might have taken Isidor's new wife from him, and their child. You and yours as well. . . . "

Shaka felt a slight misgiving. When fighting an enemy, how do you keep from becoming a worse being yourself?[899] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 07:56 PM

[903] 


P'Rassha took a sheet of paper, some ink and a pen and wrote a message. Any overlooker would noticed he used typical Cyrodiil script, but using Khajiiti words.

"Lady Loranna, P'Rassha will ask the Mage Guild to send this message to a friend. P'Rassha will be back in a few seconds."

A with the celerity P'Rassha is reknown for, the khajiit left the Nymph and Noggin with haste. [904] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 07:57 PM

[908] 

"I know that ..." Loranna says, her voice dropping to a strain-laced tone. "Trust me, if I could blast the Reoran and Indoril off the face of Tamriel right now I just might ..."
[909] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 08:03 PM

Reeds entered the Nymph and Noggin. Spotting Loranna, he made his way over to her. "I assume someone has already told you about the redorans ma'am?" He said, "Is there anything else I can do for you?" [910] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 08:06 PM

Dana's interlude subsided and her hands struck a quieter harmony as she continued to sing.

"The Warrior Wave, unaware of foes of old,
Oh had we listened to the stories told!
But of the few there rises one!
Hallin! Hallin! A Ra Gada's true son!

The only chance to save Hammerfell,
To find the Swords of Divad, to follow his tale,
Thus, Hallin set out, five companions he found,
And they won the swords, buried high up and 'low ground.

On the Plain of Tears, they met their foe,
Fighting with mighty sword, axe and bow.
The enemy fielded uncountable beasts,
And 'lo, on the brave they so gruesomely feast!

The enemy threatened to overwhelm us all,
But Hallin assembled the Ansei with mighty a call!
With a glor'ious assault, they broke through to the gate!
The five swords now assembled in the place of all fate!

Great magic was worked, as the inscriptions were spoken,
And so the great power of Divad's swords was awoken!
With a blinding blast and the five sword's great might,
The Goblins were banished, and gone was their blight!

Ra Gada triumphant! Victory was ours!
And now came the time to celebrate for hours.
But Hallin, he was as wise as he was strong,
Thought past the present, sought to prevent the wrong.

The power of the swords, he deemed it too great
That they were a danger, and had to be unmade.
So he rallied his Ansei - one more service, none less -
And they cast the five swords into nothingness.

And so the story is told till today,
From mouth to ear, from hear to say,
But some will say, there's something amiss,
And that every story comes with a twist."

The sound of the lute slowly subsided after the last chord, and Dana smiled and stood. The young boy clapped. Around her, the injured had quietly listened to her song, and even a few smiles could be seen. [911] 

Posted by: White Rhino Jan 11 2006, 08:11 PM

Several pops sound from the arched back of a khajiit in Anya's corner booth. A soft slide of purring as Kiseena sat up again. She isn't sure how long had passed since she and Anya had eaten and drank, but at least she didn't wake up terribly hungry.

Her tongue missed a particular taste, though, and the memory of it brought a small but ever-present worry to the front. She had heard something of looting going on, and she began to wonder what of her things back at the Arena were still safe.

A paw came up to rub one of her eyes before she began to scan the room for Anya's presence. [912] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 08:18 PM

[916] 


P'Rassha came back from the Mage Guild just in time to hear the end of the song. He seemed unconfortable hearing the claps and seeing the smiles after Dana's performance. Could the khajiit feel jalousy?

He managed to keep most of his composure, though, and went back to talk to Loranna.

"Lady Loranna, P'Rassha has good news for you. P'Rassha had an idea just after the message was sent. It is even related to the redguard's song.

P'Rassha thinks we should do what adventurers do best: adventuring. We are ressourcefull fellows and I'm sure we can find items just like the swords in the poem, money and friends faster if we look for them than staying here. P'Rassha and the others could also take the opportunity to kill some Redorans and Indorils in the process."

He stopped, but realized he forgot something really important:

"By the is, is Lady Loranna still interested to meet the Redoran lieutnant? Maybe he has important information?" [917] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 08:23 PM

Shaka found himself walking over to Dana. "Your song was impressive," he said, searching the Ra Gada's face. "I wonder . . . Do the Swords of Divad still exist somewhere, and could be quested for?"[918] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 08:26 PM

[922] 

Aware he really shouldn't do that, P'Rassha decided to confront Dana.
After all, he felt HE was the resident storytelling adventurer, and he wouldn't let a redguard taking his job.

"Excuse me, Lady Dana. You made a beautiful poem there. P'Rassha is very impress. But P'Rassha must admit their is something amiss in your story. A real storyteller would tell about the final twist, and not let everyone leave the room with such an ending, right?." [923] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 08:26 PM

[927] 
[928] 

[931] 
Reeds heard the rest of the song, as well as Shaka's question. Curious, he slowly drifted off towards the two. [932] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 08:35 PM

[936] [937] 

[940] 
Dana brushed through the Dunmer boy's black hair, but secretly, she gazed through her dark red hair taking in the reactions of her audience. As she saw the two Argonians and a Khajiit approaching, she turned towards them.

"I like to leave my songs more open ended. It gives me a chance to see if the audience listened to my songs or not, by watching how they react.", she explained softly. "A real storyteller also has messages in a song, desert walker. And there is one in mine."

She lifted her lute once more, caressed the strings and picked up the melody of the song again.

The thing that's amiss, I tell you my friend,
Is that one sword survived, not in void found its end.
And thus the legend of Divad's last sword persists,
In the realm of stories, shrouded in mists."

She smiled and bowed to the assembled people. [941] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 08:40 PM

[945] 

"Phwew, these kind of stories aren't really worth it. P'Rassha knows there is not a single drop of truth in them. Listen to P'Rassha, we shouldn't lose time with this."

And the bipedal jaguar went as far as he could, obviously frustrated by the Redguard's ability to answer to his question.

[946] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 08:42 PM

[950] 

Shaka applauded, but his eyes were still narrowed in thought. "A single sword, then. If someone wanted to search for it, where would he or she start? And what is the nature of its power, I wonder."

"I'm proof that legendary artifacts are more than stories, as I have found or been given three. If there is a sword that can give Ald Raathim an edge, no pun intended, perhaps we should look into it. . . . ."[951] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 08:44 PM

[955] 
Reeds clapped his hand on Shaka's shoulder. "I think I might have an idea about that, marshbrother. Follow me." [956] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 08:45 PM

[960] 

P'Rassha sat on a corner of the room and crossed his arms.

"Very well, don't listen to P'Rassha and do as you want. P'Rassha warned you though." [961] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 08:48 PM

Loranna comes over, saying "A beautiful song, Dana; thank you for sharing it with us."

"I am curious though; what could these legendary swords do, that made them so powerful and dangerous?" she inquires.[962] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 08:48 PM

[966] 
Reeds looked over at the khajiit. "Really? Not a single drop of truth eh? And what would you say should we come back with the sword?" [967] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 08:55 PM

[971] 
"A true pity...", Dana said, shaking her head sadly. "And I thought that Khajiiti had to be a people that cherished art when it would bring forth masters like Cherim..."

"For poetry to win
Listeners heart, soul and mind
Chimes of truth must ring."[972] 

[975] 
"This was a song to raise spirits, Shaka.", Dana said to the Argonian. "It's a song that I thought fitted, a song of a hero in a town that harbours heroes. Who knows what fate will bring?"

The Redguard woman smiled, taking a relaxed stance. "I'm a Redguard, and we were artists before warriors."[976] 

[979] 
"Good luck, if you seek for a quest. Other than my song and old stories, there is no more I could tell you. But maybe, at a later time, I can make a song of an Argonian seeking a mythical Redguard sword!" [980] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 09:01 PM

[984] 

P'Rassha was torn between the excitement of such an adventure and the feeling he was just pushed aside by a woman 2 heads smaller than him. Not that he disliked woman or despised people smaller than him. It was just...frustrating.

He managed to ask:

"And P'Rassha assumes this is not the only story about Divad's swords. P'Rassha knows you have other stories. And to make sure you know what you are talking about, P'Rassha asks for a contest. A storytelling duel. I assum you can handle that. Let's see between P'Rassha and you which one can come up with the best stories about these swords." [985] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 09:09 PM

[989] 
"My thanks to you, Lady Loranna.", Dana smiled. "Sharing stories is what I like most, bear in mind, even though there might be a grain of truth in each story you hear, I'm just a bard, not a hero, and especially not someone who cares for accuracy."
She laughed. "I apologize. I should not speak this way to a Duchess." The redhaired woman bowed.[990] 

[993] 
"The swords are tightly bound to Divad in the stories. He crafted them by his own hands, and imbued them with ancient Redguard powers. Each sword had an inscription on its blade, giving instructions how to use it.", Dana explained to both Loranna and P'rassha.
"They were used twice, once by Divad and his companions, and once, many years later, by Hallin and his heroes. Both times, they were used against a terrible foe and the foe was only barely defeated. Do not let yourselves be seduced by the power of a sword though, many of those artifacts have twists just like my stories."

On P'rassha's offer, her smile changed slowly, into a mischievous grin.
"I accept the challenge, Khajiit. Let our words be the blades." [994] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 09:15 PM

[998] 

P'Rassha's ears shaked with excitement. According to the Khajiit's eyes, he was fighting a war that seemed greater than the one opposing royalists and the False ALMSIVI.

"P'Rassha knows a great story about Yokudans and the swords. P'Rassha's friend Corradon told him.

It is a story of Hunding the master Ansei. A remarkable swordmaster, the best that ever existed. But P'Rassha is a great khajiit. P'Rassha gives you time to prepare, redguard. Take as much time as you want, P'Rassha will wait. " [999] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 09:16 PM

[1003] 
Reeds spoke to Shaka again, "Unless you want to see this, should we get going?" [1004] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 09:19 PM

[1008] 

"Let's see the book, as I assume you've remembered one connected to this sword. We can always return to the tavern afterward."[1009] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 11 2006, 09:21 PM

[1013] 
"I'd very much like to hear a story about Frandar Hunding Hel Ansei No Shira that is not sung by a Redguard tongue, Khajiit. I'm looking forward to this very much. If you excuse me, I think I will gather the things I need to beat you.", Dana said, still smiling and quite confident. "I will call upon you then."
With another bow, she elegantly walked past the assembled heroes, head held high, and left for the streets of Ald Raathim. [1014] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 09:23 PM

Loranna smiles a bit at Dana, privately vowing to ask Zadion and other scholars about the history of these swords later - just in case. P'Rassha was right; it was time for aventurers to do what adventurers did, as surely as it was time for her city to regroup itself and rebuild.

"Afteryour bardic duel, I would like to talk to all of you about what we will do next," Loranna says. "There are things, I fear, which I will ask of you my friends; dangerous things."

She orders a glass of cromberry juice and looks around ... [1015] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 09:24 PM

[1019] 
"You catch on quickly," Reeds said as they left the tavern, "The line about realms of stories; was what jogged my memory." They shortly arrived at the Bookstore, where Reeds shuffled around behind the counter, finally pulling out a large book. "Now, I don't have the book here, but there was one..." He trailed off, looking for the title, "Aha. Redguard Artifacts Re-examined. Seems to be published out of... Well that is interesting." Reeds trailed off. [1020] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 09:25 PM

[1024] 

P'Rassha turned towards Lady Loranna and whispered

"Friend Loranna, why can't P'Rassha stand the redguard lady? It is as if P'Rassha felt an urge to prove her wrong in any possible ways. P'Rassha just find her attitude...irritating." [1025] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 09:26 PM

[1029] 

"What's interesting about it?"

Shaka felt bad for Reeds upon seeing the jumbled mess in his bookstore. Hopefully Reeds would be able to salvage his stock, though.
[1030] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 09:30 PM

[1034] 
"That's just it, There IS no publising location. Just the title, the price, and this note: Deliveries to outlying provinces are not provided for this volume. That's the part that bothers me, even the rarest books can be ordered out-of-province. It's almost like they don't want to sell copies of it." [1035] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 09:32 PM

[1039] 

Loranna looks at P'Rassha, her eyebrows raised. "You find her irritating?" she asks. "Is this professional jealousy speaking, dear, or something deeper?"[1040] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 09:35 PM

[1044] 

"Reminds me of the secret library that the Temple was rumored to have," ventured Shaka. "Books too rare to be destroyed, yet containing too much truth for the people, or so it was thought."[1045] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 09:37 PM

[1049] 

P'Rassha didn't expect that as an answer and continued with his normal voice, not bothering to whisper anymore since Dana was too far to hear him anymore.

"What do you mean something deeper? P'Rassha isn't jealous either. P'Rassha just thinks she is just...just...just...not right!!!

P'Rassha met other storytellers before, and they never irritated P'Rassha." [1050] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 09:41 PM

[1054] 
"I've never heard of this 'secret library', but my guess is that seomthing similar might be happening here. Problem is, if they wanted to keep this book a secret, why would they put it in this?" Rees asked, tapping the book, "It dosen't make any sense." [1055] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 09:41 PM

[1059] 

Several ideas suggest themselves to Loranna about why P'Rassha'sfur bristles at Dana. She looks up at the Khajiit curiously for a moment.

" ... I'm afraid I haven't been watching closely enough to see what might be going on," she says, laying a hand on P'Rassha's giant forearm. "It could simply be the fact that she shows up on the eve of our greatest sorrow and sweeps away everyone's heart with her stories - or it may be she managed to sweep one specific heart that causes your hackles to rise. I don't know what to tell you, I'm afrai; forgive me dear."[1060] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 11 2006, 09:45 PM

[1064] 

It seemed Loranna made the giant Khajiit wondered about his real feelings for some time too...

"Wha...No...P'Rassha wouldn't...You don't mean P'Rassha's hea..."

And the rest of the sentences were lost as P'Rassha took a walk outside, unsure about what to think. [1065] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 09:45 PM

[1069] 

"It makes sense only if magicka is involved . . . . Loranna's company might have been meant to find this. Fate perhaps."
[1070] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 09:51 PM

[1074] 
"Well this book won't be too much use to us if we can't read it. And since the publisher isn't listed, I wouldn't even know where to start looking for the thing. Although..." He flipped to the front cover of the book where a small block of print was written; This volume published in 3E428, Poctinus and Sons, Imperial City, Cyrodiil. Reeds turned the book around to show this to Shaka, "That might be a good place to start." [1075] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 11 2006, 09:59 PM

[1079] 

"Hmm.... If this were peacetime, going to the capital would be a daytrip. But can we justify using the Mages Guild now? Maybe . . . ."

"Let's go back to the tavern for now."[1080] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 11 2006, 10:01 PM

[1084] 
"I agree," Reeds said, looking around his shop, "I don't want to stay here much longer right now."

Together, Reeds and Shaka made their way back to the Nymph and Noggin, Reeds carrying the book in his satchel. [1085] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 11 2006, 10:11 PM

Now is a good time to yell ...

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna [1086] 

Posted by: Dreadlord7 Jan 11 2006, 11:25 PM

http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=217498 [1087] 

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