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

Posted by: Loranna Jan 22 2006, 10:59 PM

Loranna's Notice: Yes, I know there are two sets of rules right now; we are currently revising the boilerplate intro section, and this is a work in progress.


RP Rules:

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:

Loranna's Roleplay, while an open roleplay where everyone is invited to join, is not a limitless or unregulated game. There are rules we have set ourselves that make roleplaying easier and more enjoyable for everyone of us. Please take the time and read the following guidelines carefully and, more importantly, act according to them.

1. Have fun!

2. Fun does not mean you can do whatever you want, though.

Let us please clarify some points. 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:

Affecting other characters:
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.

Major Events:
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.

For the purpose of coordinating this RP, backstage fun and discussing current and future events, we have established a chatroom on chatspike.net, chatroom #Loranna_RP. We strongly recommend that you have a glimpse in there, since it is the easiest and most convenient way to discuss characters and settings, explain rules, plan and give you the background information you need to play in this RP. You can find information on how to join the chatroom ((((//HERE\\)))).

Here are various other rules, tips and information you should take time to read before joining this RP:

1. Background History:

Loranna's RP has accumulated a rich background history. Of course, no-one can know all that has happened in this RP, but it is important that you have at least an idea about the major events that took place during the last one-and-a-half years. There are a few posts of Loranna that explain the history of the RP from her character's viewpoint and a summary of the events in the RP is in progress, you can find them ((((//HERE\\)))). Another summary is available as text file from Nalion, please ask via our chatspike channel or per PM to Nalion for the time being. We are working on a more permanent solution to provide this information.

The chatroom #Loranna_RP on chatspike is probably the best and fastest way to get yourself informed about the RP, just ask the moderators and long-time players there if you need any information. They will gladly help you. It is also very advisable to read up on the most recent posts and threads to become a grasp of what is happening right now in the RP. This will significantly help you in finding a way to join the action and will reduce the probabiliy of mistakes.

2. Reading and catching up on the RP:

We're a dedicated lot of players, and we love this RP. This means we put a lot of effort in our posts, do a lot of planning and discussing to create our plotlines. This requires time and dedication. And we require this of you as well. This means, take your time to read the posts of the other players and take the time to catch up on the plot if it progressed while you were away. This simplifies your rejoin into the action. It is also a sign of respect to the other players. If you don't have the time to read their posts, why should they bother with yours, then?

Again, please let me repeat this, for it is very important. If you are not able or willing to put time and at least reasonable effort in this RP, think again whether you want to join this RP or not.

3. Gathering information

Gather information about the RP, be it asking in chat, by reading older posts and getting up to date on the history or by asking via PM. No-one can know everything, sure, but everyone can ask about what happened. We're glad to assist! Again, this can not be done without some interest in the ongoings in the RP, effort and a good bit of dedication.

4. Roleplaying

Roleplaying doesn't just involve making your character say something (in-character chat). It also has a descriptive element. Motions and emotions of your character, worries, joys, mimics, movements... we want to see them! Describe how your character acts, this gives you a better grasp of your character and will help your fellow players build up a relationship to your character. It's not only action and big fights we have here in this RP, there is a major social aspect to it as well.

5. Posting

Try to take your time to post. Yes, we are aware that there are hectic scenes, like in big combats, where some things move faster, but is it in general a good idea to look over your post again to check it. Yes, we know it sounds stupid and obvious, but please care about spelling, punctuation and grammar. They are not just things you learned in school once to forget afterwards. We are no decryption experts. Those grammar rules have their meaning, and there are tools out there to help you(word spell checker for example). Again, the chat is a perfect way to ask for
time and coordinate with other players if you have problems.

6. Character control / multiple characters

Once more, about controlling characters that belong to other players: You cannot control a character that is not your own (with a few exceptions, like having talked to the player of the character beforehand). This means most of the time the following:

* In combat, you can only try to attack another character, but whether you hit him or how much damage is inflicted is up to the player of the character, and only him/her.

* This applies to healing or helping the character as well; feel free to try and offer help to a character, but let the other player describe the effects of the healing/helping.

* Especially in combat, you have to work closely with the other players, the chatroom is the best and easiest method to discuss these things.

Another thing related to this topic is referring or speaking to other characters whose players are not online. If possible, try to avoid involving characters when their player is not present. It ties down your character while waiting for the other player to come back, and you don't know whether the respective player has other plans when he is back.

Additionally, avoid generating scenes where you involve a character, affect him with an action and finish the action before the player can react (stealing, attacking, casting spells or similar actions). Example: No running up to someone, rob him and run away to safety all in one post. This is a no go.

Controlling multiple characters. We have no written limits on how many characters you may control; the limit is you. In general, it is very advisable that you stick to one character when you are new to RPing. When creating a character, it is VERY important that you consider your character carefully. Again, this has something to do with effort and dedication. It is generally a bad sign if you join up, post a couple of posts and then say you are bored with this character and make a new one. Other players might get annoyed greeting and introducing their characters to a new character when it is obvious that this character will not last long because the player gets bored with the new character. This RP is a social RP as well, and it is very difficult to socialize with a character that is badly played, where you can see by the style of writing that the player is already bored with the character and will throw him away at the next opportunity. RPing is all about characters and your character is your "representative" in this RP, your voice, your arm, your mind. Please take this into account when creating and playing your character.

As a general rule of thumb, use only one character until you feel comfortable with him, can control him, have fun with him and the character is established in the RP. The rest will run automatically after a while when you get more confident and experienced in RPing.

7. Secret plans

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. Examples: Your character suddenly remembers that he has a castles all over Tamriel and calls in troops to help. Or: Your character suddenly reveals he is a spy of the Emperor and knows everything.

8. Ingame consequences of character actions:

Morrowind the game was rather lenient when it came to direct consequences after a character's action. This is not the case in our RP. There are laws and local customs, and there are guards and other authorities that are there to enforce them. So, starting tavern brawls, stealing, murdering, open assault and all other related actions are very likely to be persecuted and punished (this can go up from your character ending up in jail, being banished or to be executed). This doesn't mean that there are no murders or thefts in the RP, but it does mean that if you do that, be aware of the consequences your character will have to deal with.

9. Additional helpful information:

Please make sure that you read the following posts of Allerleirauh ((((//link here\\)))), dealing with some of the above mentioned rules, as well as the hints on character generation done by Loranna ((((//link here\\)))). Please take the above mentioned rules and information into careful consideration, they will help you in joining this RP quickly and are useful to avoid problems. And more importantly: act according to them!

** Not following the above advice will only result in two things: your post is likely to be completely ignored by everyone else as if it did not happen and/or you are asked to leave the RP. This is obviously not good for anyone, so please, discuss major events before doing them and act according to the rules mentioned above. **
Thank you, and have fun!

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: Loranna is in Firsthold's War Room, where the Queen prepares to face off against her mother Barenziah about the fate of Goranthir. Loranna has just explained to Morgiah what befell her son, and wonders just what will come out of this night's confrontation ... [1] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 22 2006, 11:01 PM

Reeds Saloat is at the Cotillion Ball, talking with Thios about hidden motives...[2] 

[5] 




Valerius is running around Ald Raathim somewhere... [6] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 22 2006, 11:01 PM

Summary for Nalion
Nalion, a Breton mage has entered the lionesses' den, namely the war room of Queen Morgiah, where she and her Grandmother Barenziah face each other over Goranthir. He is now waiting for Morgiah's reaction to Loranna's news about Goranthir. Previously, the mage had attended Princess Rinnalla's Cotillion. [7] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:04 PM

Summary

The Cotillion Ball for Princess Rinnala is in full swing in the main salons of the palace, which have been transformed into a full replica of Nirn, with the guests the size of giants treading over the surfaces of Tamriel, Akavir, Atmora, Aldmeris, Pyandonea, Thris, and Yokuda as they dance and make merry.

King Reman and Princess Rinnala are there.

As for Queen Morgiah and her mother, Queen Barenziah, just arrived from Morrowind to discuss Prince Goranthir ...[8] 

[11] 

Morgiah took in Loranna's tale with rapt attention, but little emotion on her face. On the walk from the docks, she had composed herself, and there were no traces of the anger she had shown.

Then her face fell, looking at the silvery table they were all at.

"Pyokos," she whispered, and clouds emerged on the mirror-like surface of the table. It was a mirror, like the one Barenziah and Loranna possessed.

No face appeared in the mirror, however, and again Morgiah whispered the strange name.

Finally, something materialized. It was a face, but not a human one. A misshapen creature, fat and warty, its mouth seemingly too big for the Cyrodilic it spoke.

"Your Majesty," Pyokos said. "All is lost. Mannimarco lives."

Morgiah gasped. [12] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:07 PM

The Royal Cotillion, Firsthold[13] 

[16] 

"I don't know Glacia well enough to have any hidden motivations," Thios laughed. "You looked dejected, and I am a naturally sympathetic person, so I thought I'd let you know that theirs is not a happy engagement."

[17] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 22 2006, 11:08 PM

[21] 
“Is everything alright Anya?” Telera asked much later, “You were so energetic at the start, but then… you pulled back and then you became …restrained, like you were afraid of something. Are you feeling okay? It isn’t – how often do you need to feed now?” [22] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 22 2006, 11:08 PM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian battlemage, is one of the delegation from Ald Raathim.

Shaka kept silent as the battle of wills continued. He had suspected or feared that this moment would come from the first day he had heard of Helseth's request. And he was one of three present who had seen the changed Goranthir: Slyvos, Shaka, and Nalion.

There were things he wanted to add to Loranna's account, including the existence of shapeshifting vampires who apparently had pulled the strings of the rebel Houses. Now was not the time to muddy the waters further. Shaka's mouth had often gotten him into trouble in his life, hurting others as well as himself. For now, it was enough to watch and realize he was in the presence of three living legends in Barenziah, Morgiah, and Loranna.[23] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 22 2006, 11:10 PM

[27] 
"I assume it was arranged?" reeds asked as he sipped at his drink, "It's good to know, but that knowledge alone won't help me much... perhaps I should just wait and see what develops. Is the wedding date set, or is it still up in the air?" [28] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 22 2006, 11:11 PM

[32] 
"The King of Worms indeed has risen, Queen Morgiah.", Nalion said with a grave tone. "As Loranna said, the Mages Guild Magister Zadion has sent an expedition to Scourg Barrow, but no reports have com from there. We found a Sload hideout in the bay of Ald Raathim as well." [33] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:17 PM

[37] 

"Like I said, I don't know her or her story very well, just from gossip," Thios smiled. "But the Count and Glacia's family made their arrangements at her Cotillion three years ago. Now, in the case of girls as young as Princess Rinnala, the arrangements usually call for a wedding in a couple years' time. But then the Count went to Valenwood after the war there to look after some property, and only got back now, so who knows, but I'd suspect if there's a date for the wedding, Glacia hasn't been informed, as surprised as she was to see him."
[38] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 22 2006, 11:22 PM

[42] 
"Anything else running along the grapevine with these two?" Reeds asked. [43] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:23 PM

[47] 

Morgiah looked at Nalion, and then back at the creature, who was also a sload, reflected in the mirror.

"And Goranthir?" she asked the creature.

"His soul is forfeit," the sload said hastily, looking around as if afraid to be overheard. "I do not understand what happened, but it seems that some powerful undead creature ignored the mark Mannimarco placed on him and tried to take the boy as her own. This transgression awoke the King from his slumber, and he reached out and took Goranthir then and there ... Now, I must go, or I will be found out ... I'm sorry ..."

Morgiah looked up from the table as the image faded. She looked stricken, tears in her eyes.

"Morgiah," Barenziah asked simply, shaking her head. "How could you do it? Tell me you too were possessed, and I'll believe it, I swear."[48] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:28 PM

The Royal Cotillion, Firsthold[49] 

[52] 

Thios shrugged. He looked at the two of them dancing, the Count and his bride-to-be.

"No, but like I said, I don't know them well," he said. "But you've made up your mind to break up the marriage, have you? The Count is a wealthy and powerful Altmer ... what would you offer her in return?"[53] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 22 2006, 11:31 PM

[57] 
Anya frowned, her faced nestled in the crook of Telera's neck and shoulder. She kissed her lightly, murmuring, "I don't want to hurt you."

She sat up straight, partially saddling Telera, "I don't know. I haven't been able to figure out a 'schedule'. I haven't... since the battle, and your scent is more intoxicating than I remembered." [58] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 22 2006, 11:33 PM

[62] 
"Happiness, a life away from the pressures of nobility, freedom," Reeds added in a whisper, "love..."

He coughed, "But what I offer is of no consequence. If she wants to marry this person, then I have no right to interfere. If she doesn't, I don't know exactly what I would be able to do anyway. Like you said," Reeds downed the rest of his drink, "he is a powerful and wealthy Noble, and I'm a nobody Argonian Merchant from a continent away." [63] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 22 2006, 11:38 PM

[67] 
Nalion stiffened as if in shock. "A powerful undead creature?", he asked in disbelief. The parts of the puzzle seemed to fall into place, revealign a picture.
"The last time Goranthir was seen unharmed was in Ald'ruhn, when he faced the false Almalexia. Reports show that there was a great explosion of some kind. After our party has investigated, we found out that Goranthir was turned. During this mission, we found out that there were powerful vampires in the area. Now..."
Nalion paused to gather his breath, for he had spoken quickly.
"To me, this can mean only one thing. The false Almalexia was a vampire. It would fit someone like this to claim a boy like Goranthir."

"Your Majesty, Morgiah, please, in light of these events...", Nalion asked. "Any information that you are able to give us would help. For Goranthir's sake, please." [68] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:38 PM

The War Room, Royal Palace, Firsthold[69] 

[72] 

"I did it for survival," Morgiah said hoarsely, trying to compose herself but failing. "And don't you dare pretend sanctimony. Anyone who's read your book knows how many stupid, selfish decisions you've made in your too long life. I was not possessed. I made a calculated gamble, which I thought I had won. Mannimarco vanished after the Warp In The West, else I would not have had a child. Now, shut up, you withered old hag, unless you have a plan." The Queen turned to Nalion. "What is this about Scourg Barrow?"

Barenziah smiled for the barest of moments. [73] 

Posted by: Arynel Jan 22 2006, 11:40 PM

OOC: The Breton Arynel is sitting in the Nymph and Noggin with a drink and a vague expression. [74] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:41 PM

[78] 

"After two dances, love?" Thios smiled, giving himself away. In truth, he was not supposed to have been present during the first dance at his sister's party in the Royal Library. He stammered a bit, and then turned away. "Well, I wish you luck, friend."
[79] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 22 2006, 11:44 PM

[83] 

Loranna, despite herself, smiles slightly herself.

She was not alone in having made phenominally stupid decisions after all; though she had known that for some time, it somehow felt mildly good to be reassured of that fact, just now.

She does look over at Nalion though, her eyes shining; another suspiscion they had was now confirmed ...[84] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 22 2006, 11:46 PM

[88] 
"Is that all you can give me, a wish for luck?" Reeds asked him, "It may not be the kind of love you take it to mean. True she is beautiful, but I am Argonian and she is not, we're incompatible. But I care for her, two dances or no, and I just want her to be happy." [89] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 22 2006, 11:53 PM

The War Room, Royal Palace, Firsthold[90] 

[93] 
"Magister Zadion of Ald Raathim's Mages Guild sent mages to the Barrow to investigate the last known residence of the King of Worms. We hoped to find more hints that would allow us to gather more insight into this whole matter, and to find information concerning the King of Worms.", Nalion answered. "We have not heard from them as of now." [94] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 22 2006, 11:55 PM

[98] 

"You will have to be more specific," Morgiah replied. "Twenty years ago in Wayrest, I was a Princess in the court of King Eadwyre and my mother Queen Barenziah. My brother and stepsister were vying for the throne, and I lent him my support as I always did. But I had my own future to think of, and a Dunmer Princess has relatively few prospects. In High Rock, despite my family's high position, we were not welcome in Wayrest, a fact that was proven when Helseth lost his fight to become King. If I returned to Morrowind, I would be mettling in my mother and brother's alternate plan. So I set my sights elsewhere.

"Reman had just become King of Firsthold on the death of his brother, who had been slain by the necromantic forces of Mannimarco. The King of Worms has long plagued this land. But though Reman and I cared for one another, we could not be married, for his Altmer subjects would not allow a Dunmeri Queen on the throne. I told him that if he would fight for me, I would fight for him.

"He does not know what I did. I lied to him, telling him that the Gods of my people, the Tribunal, vanquished Mannimarco. In truth, I sought him out, and asked him what service I could perform so he would leave Firsthold, and he asked for my first born child.

"I did not agree at first, but I could see that Elysana would win Wayrest, and my possibilities were few. And so, Stendarr forgive me, I agreed.

"Reman was so overjoyed that Mannimarco had gone that he made the marriage happen, despite all opposition. And when my sources, such as the sload you met in the mirror, assured me that the King of Worms was gone, I allowed myself to get pregnant."
[99] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 22 2006, 11:56 PM

Summary:

P'Rassha was doing his best to protect Loranna for threats. As everything went pretty well, the huge Cathay-raht khajiit had nothing to do since they arrived.

He was just keeping his mouth shut, trying not to destroy all the diplomatic efforts Lady Loranna was making. [100] 

Posted by: dentris Jan 23 2006, 12:06 AM

P'Rassha knows about pie. [101] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 12:09 AM

[105] 
“That was a few days ago now though, wasn’t it? You shouldn’t let yourself starve Anya, or else you won’t have the strength to hold back,” Telera replied. She moved away a little and added, “Wait here, I’ll be right back.” before getting up and grabbing a couple empty potion bottles and a dagger.

She noticed it was the iron dagger a second later, ‘Well there’s one who will enjoy this.’

‘You really are an idiot,’ the dagger laughed. ‘Still… I’d remind you not to take it from the jugular, but I don’t think even you could be that stupid.’

She came back with blood running down her arm with no visible wound and her dagger still soaked with it. The potion bottles were filled with sanguine liquid. She smiled weakly as she presented them to Anya, “Drink up dear.” [106] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 12:12 AM

[110] 

"That's all I can give you," Thios shook his head. "And you'll need all the luck you can get if you interfere with the Count."[111] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 12:15 AM

[115] 
Nalion nodded, however, mixed feelings showed on his face. Old traditions standing between Reman and Morgiah, she herself not knowing where to go, Mannimarco's plage on Firsthold. And yet, she want into the devil's den and sold her firstborn in a deal with the same Mannimarco so that he would stop his harassments.
"I see.", Nalion said simply, being at a loss of words. "So Mannimarco went to sleep. I am sorry to be blunt, your Majesty, but you asked me to be more specific. Is there anything you can tell us about how long Mannimarco would sleep? And can you tell us about this Sload you talked to?" [116] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 12:15 AM

[120] 
"Oh?" Reeds asked, "has someone else interefered with the Count before?" [121] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 12:16 AM

[125] 

Loranna feels her eyes beginning to mist up.

Morgiah, a woman she had come to think of as cold and strong, calculating and in control ... deceived by Mannimarco. And Loranna could almost see herself thinking along those lines ...

Almost. But then, Loranna now knew what happened when you made deals with devils, thanks to Azura. It was not a pleasant lesson for anyone to learn.

There were things still tugging at the back of Loranna's mind, but instant clarity was never her strong point; she came to her insights slowly. So for now she lets her worries lie, and speaks up once more.

"Despite what the Sload has said, there may still be hope," Loranna says. "Goranthir was a strong soul, and the gods can be defied. We should send people to find Zadion's expidition in Scourg Barrow, and whatever clues may lie there - and in the meantime, determine what Geht's next move would be."

Loranna pauses. "You say the King of Worms had often plagued this land, Your Majesty?" she asks, frowning thoughtfully.[126] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 12:24 AM

[130] 

"I didn't think Mannimarco was sleeping, I thought he was dead," Morgiah replied calmly. "The Sload was one I met years ago off the coast of Hammerfell. I knew he could be trusted, and I sent him to Thras to learn what he could. He said the sload believed Mannimarco to be sleeping, but the higher priests believed, secretly, that he was dead or ascended and no longer concerned with mortal affairs following the Warp in the Iliac Bay."[131] 

[134] 

"Ever since he emerged in the Second Era, aye," Barenziah answered for Morgiah. [135] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 12:26 AM

[139] 
Anya frowned while she moved the covers off and reached for her shirt. She felt a little self-conscious with her pale skin. She stared at Telera's arm with worry as she took the warm bottles, "What were you thinking?"

The smell from the bottles was powerful, though, and it didn't take much time for her to bring the bottle to her lips. She quickly gulped most of it's contents, pausing to wipe the corner of her mouth. The pupils in her glowing eyes narrowed a bit, and she glanced at the bloody dagger, "Did you at least take a healing potion, or something?" [140] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 12:38 AM

[144] 
“Just a little light-headed for the moment,” Telera said as Anya drained the bottle. “I didn’t hurt myself too seriously, just found somewhere that would bleed and kept it open long enough to fill them, then closed it back up. Did that help take the edge off the hunger at least?”

Noticing the glance at her dagger she added, “Yeah, the little blood-drinker enjoyed itself a bit too much during that.” [145] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 12:42 AM

[149] 
Anya cleaned her mouth off with a cloth, "It did a little more than simply ease the hunger, love, but you really shouldn't do this. I don't want this to be a habit. I'll think of a way, but not this."[150] 

[153] 
Anya's eyes widened in curiousity when she spoke of the dagger. She looked at it again, but carefully this time, "Did you just refer to the dagger in third-person?" [154] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 12:46 AM

[158] 

"I'm sorry, friend, can't say much more," Thios frowned. "I have the next dance with Princess Rinalla ..."

He looked towards the dance floor. "Now, where'd she go?"
[159] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 12:50 AM

[163] 

Loranna nods, alook of growing horror coming to her face. "Your Majesty, I did not speak this earlier, because there was no solid proof for my suspiscions," she says, looking at Morgiah, "but now ... Aedrin is dead, you say the wounds were consistant with bird attacks, we both noticed the unnatural silence of the birds last night - and Mannimarco has reason to strike at Firsthold."[164] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 12:51 AM

[168] 
"Then I'll leave you to your lady-hunting," Reeds replied with a laugh, moving away from him.

Looking around, he didn't see anyone he recognized from Ald Raathim. Eh, they can handle themselves, thought Reeds, probably out seeing the city...


ooc: Out for tonight. [169] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 12:55 AM

[173] 

"Who knew Argonians were so selfish," Thios rolled his eyes. "They'll talk your ear off about their own love lifes, but have a problem yourself and you're on your own ..."

After making a few inquiries, Thios learned that Rinalla had stepped out with her guards to get a breath of fresh air. He returned to the drinks.


[174] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 01:00 AM

The War Room, The Royal Palace, Firsthold[175] 

[178] 

"Aedrin is dead?" Barenziah asked. "Wasn't he heir to the throne?"

"He was Reman's brother's son, yes," Morgiah replied, looking to Loranna, trying to understand. "You're saying that Goranthir, or Geht or whatever he is calling himself, he killed Aedrin with this animal-controlling ability of his?"

"Who is the heir of Firsthold now?" Barenziah asked.

"There isn't one yet," Morgiah said. "Reman is going to announce that Rinalla is later this evening." [179] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 01:08 AM

[183] 

"I'm saying it's possible; we know Geht can control animals," Loranna says. "We can't actually prove it - there are Bosmer who could accomplish the same thing, of course - but Geht has both motive to wish the Royal house of Firsthold ill and the means to strike own Aedrin the way we think he was killed."

This was Morgiah's domain, not Loranna's; she did not try to tell the Queen what to do, but the look of worry was easy to read on Loranna's face. If what Loranna feared was true, then the Princess was in danger.

Morgiah may have been a terrible mother to her son, but she was still a mother. And she was Barenziah's daughter, and Barenziah's blood ran true in her children. Loranna simply nods to the Queen, indicating she is at her service.[184] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 01:09 AM

[188] 
“If you ever need more just ask,” Telera said, waving off Anya’s objection.[189] 

[192] 
“What? I, er, that is, it is,” Telera said, searching for a reasonable explanation, then stopping, Anya had been completely honest about being a vampire from when she had first reunited with her, may as well open up about this now. “Yes.”

Holding the dagger up in front of her, she continued, “Anya, meet the one who tries to wring blood from every rock, who shares a form with myself and half a mind, meet… actually it calls itself by my name, so, umm, my dagger.

“Long story short, it likes killing far more than is healthy. It’s almost vampiric in its lust for blood.”

‘Almost?’ the dagger stated indignantly.

Telera fell silent and waited for Anya’s response, glancing at her furtively. [193] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 01:16 AM

[197] 
Anya stared at the dagger, one eyebrow raised, her mind working over how this affected Telera, "This explains a bit. And how long have you had... it?"

She reached out hesitantly to touch the dagger, "Vampiric eh? I guarantee I have it beat." [198] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 01:16 AM

The War Room, The Royal Palace, Firsthold[199] 

[202] 

Morgiah turned to her guard. He was well-trusted. She knew he wouldn't tell anyone, even her husband, what was being discussed.

"Make sure the Princess is being well watched," she said. "Don't spoil her fun, but double ... no, triple ... the number of guards watching her."

The guard bowed and withdrew.

"There's a real danger of paranoia here," Morgiah said. "As you've said, we have no proof of anything, except that Goranthir has changed and that Mannimarco has returned. Which, admittedly, is enough to make anyone paranoid. But you say that Goranthir can still be saved. How?"
[203] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 01:27 AM

[207] 

Somehow, Loranna finds Morgiah's admonishment not to get overly paranoid to be remarkably funny, given what sorts of worries Loranna and her friends had felt about her just a short while ago, and with Barenziah's comment about sacrificing them all without batting an eyelash still in the back of her mind. She finds it easy, though, to refrain from laughing.

"That, Your Majesty," Loranna admits, "is something we hoped to find clues to at Scourg Barrow. I, myself, was possessed once, and it required a great deal of effort to free me, but even when it looked like my soul was lost forever, I somehow hung on - so I retain hope for your son."

She pauses, considering for a moment. " ... The Psijjics might also have some insight to offer, if they can be contacted," she muses, remembering their interest in Goranthir. "At the moment though, that is all I can offer; our efforts to look into the matter got sidetracked by the attack on Ald Raathim."[208] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 01:28 AM

[212] 
“Umm, I’ve had it since…” Telera paused, trying to remember when she’d gotten it, “Gnisis, while Loranna was still playing host to Azura. It wasn’t very talkative at first, and when it first started talking it didn’t say much more than ‘kill’ and ‘die,’ since then its vocabulary has improved, at least a little bit.”

‘I don’t complain about your idiocy,’ the dagger said obstinately.

‘Yes you do, constantly,’ Telera replied.

“Go ahead,” Telera handed the dagger to Anya, handle first. “It won’t really be any different than a normal dagger for you, but you won’t be able to keep it, not for long anyway. It always finds its way back to me before too long, and I tried tossing it into the inner sea.”

“As for you having it beat, I hope you don’t. But don’t turn it into a contest, please?” [213] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 01:30 AM

[217] 

"I have a suggestion," Barenziah said simply, turning to her daughter. "Break the contract with Mannimarco, so he no longer has a claim on Goranthir. He said he would take your first born's soul, and you would be Queen of Firsthold. If you are no longer queen, if you divorce Reman and relinquish the throne, the King of Worms has no more claim on Goranthir. The contract is void. Goranthir must be released."[218] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 01:34 AM

[222] 

" ... Would he honor that?" Loranna asks, frowning. "He's got Goranthir now; I don't know Mannimarco but Goran strikes me as a rare prize."

"Er, no offense, Your Majesty," Loranna says, grimacing.[223] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 01:47 AM

The War Room, The Royal Palace, Firsthold[224] 

[227] 

"Mannimarco puts himself in the company of Clavicus Vile. Once a contract has been set, it must be honored," Barenziah replied.

"Loranna's right," Morgiah shook her head. "It wouldn't make any difference now. And regardless of what you think, I love my husband. I won't divorce him on a theory of yours that --"

Morgiah's guard came back into the room. "Your majesty, we have ... The Princess apparently stepped out of the ball for a moment. We don't know where she is."

The Royal Gardens

Rinalla walked through the gardens which some called the sleeping gardens, for the flowers all swooned at night and rose again fragrant and blossoming by day. Her silver train trailed behind her, and occasionally was snagged on a root or a rock, so she had to pull it to keep from being caught. She heard that Lady Venevria had a train that floated ... if only she had thought to ask for that.

The Princess didn't mind parties. At the masquerade last year, she had gone as a harpy, and been given a costume that allowed her to fly. That was fun. Plus, her brother Goranthir had shown up unexpectedly. That was a good party.

The Princess wasn't shy. She didn't mind dancing or talking, or even, necessarily, being the center of attention. She was ten years old, and it was fun to play dress up.

But she was likely to meet her future husband tonight, and that was scary for reasons she didn't fully understand.

And her cousin Aedrin was dead. And her brother Goranthir was still missing.

In short, Princess Rinalla, ten years old and subject of a Cotillion Ball in her honor, was not extremely unhappy, but she wanted to get away from the crowds and be among the flowers.

It was a beautiful night. And still. There were no birds calling.[228] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 01:54 AM

[232] 

'Its a lovely night' a voice called out to her from the shadows, 'the silence, albeit unnatural is a relief from the noise of that party.' A woman in a white velvet dress walked out of the shadows mysteriously, and crouched beside a lilly, smelling its fragrance. She smiled, 'Maranda Biennie, of the Order of Dibella, at your service, your Highness,' she bowed lowly, the shimmering silver earrings shining in the torchlight, 'what brings you away from the noise and ceremony of the party?' [233] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 01:55 AM

[237] 
Anya took the dagger, balancing it on her finger, "You make that sound as if I said that with pride. If only you knew what goes through my pretty little head sometimes. Sometimes I wonder if I've just been given a name to the face."

"I'm sorry. It's been an... unsettling time for me. But, why did you keep this from me?"

She returned the dagger to Telera, shaking her head, "This does explain a few things, though. It doesn't say much about me, does it?" [238] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 01:57 AM

[242] 

Loranna looks at Barenziah, then turns to Morgiah. "Your Majesty, I once let the Daedra Prince Azura use my body as her vessel, and through me, because of me, many people died or suffered the loss of everything they had, everyhting they held dear. People kept telling me to reject Azura and end the madness, but I said nay as well - at first, because I was mad, and then when even I could see the harm I was doing, because I felt just as you do now, that it was too late, that there was no turning back, that I couldn't change things now even if I wanted to."

"That's a lie, Your Majesty; it's never too late to stand up and do the right thing. It's never too late to throw off the shackles evil people think they hold you by. And it's never too late to build anew; Ald Raathim is a testament to these very turths."

She opens her mouth to say more, when the guard walks in, and Loranna can't help but feel another chill run down her spine. "Outside?" she asks, her heart skipping a beat. [243] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 01:59 AM

The Sleeping Gardens, The Royal Palace, Firsthold[244] 

[247] 

The three guards following the Princess put their hands to their swords, but kept them sheathed. A guest of the party. Nothing to be alarmed about.

"I just wanted to think about things, and every time I tried in there, someone came over and tried to talk to me, or get me to dance," Rinalla shrugged. "Just for five minutes, I wanted to see the real world, not the fake real world, like inside."[248] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 02:02 AM

[252] 

"Well, out," the guard replies. "She might be elsewhere in the palace. My men won't leave her, and they'll make sure she isn't gone for long ... But I've already ordered dozens of guards to look for them."
[253] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 02:06 AM

[257] 

'The real world...' Maranda smiled slightly, 'Is not a place for princesses. Its a place of unhappiness, crime and pestilence, a place where one such as yourself could be killed for a piece of bread. It is a terrible place indeed... yet I would not care much for the life which has been forced upon you ether, you have wealth, power, but your a prisoner of tradition and ceremony... not an enviable position,' she sighed, as her eyes surveyed the gardens suspiciously, 'I dont think it would be wise to linger out here for too much longer, I think we should head back inside, dont you agree?' [258] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 02:09 AM

[262] 

It's times like these I wish I was a Void Ranger, or at least had been born when Passwall was still known, Loranna thinks to herself, forcing herself to calm down.

"I see ..." she says, glancing over to Barenziah. A feeling of helplessness was slowly coming over the Nordic Duchess, being both unable to tell if there was reason to worry, and unable to do much about it if there were. [263] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 02:11 AM

[267] 
“It would like it to be,” Telera muttered, then took the dagger back and grimaced, “Can you think of a single situation that is improved by the phrase ‘Hi, you seem like a really nice person but my dagger is currently taking great pleasure in deciding how to dice you up?’ or ‘How are you doing? I’m chatting to a psychotic dagger in my brain right now’?

“Besides, I haven’t lost control outside of a battle to occupy myself with and there hasn’t been anything to tip people off. So why worry them with this? Most people have more than enough to worry about as it is.”

Telera looked at Anya askew, “It doesn’t say anything about you at all, just that I am too much of an idiot to open up to the people I trust and I can hold a secret too well for my own good. I’ll guard your secret just as closely.” [268] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 02:11 AM

[272] 

"What about all the pretty and nice things in the world? Didn't you say you were from the Order of Dibella?" Rinalla asked.

One of the guards added. "If you'll pardon me for saying so, your Majesty, we should be getting back. Your father and mother will be worried about you."

"My father is talking with people, and my mother left an hour ago," the Princess frowned.[273] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 02:15 AM

[277] 

Barenziah and Morgiah rose simultaneously and together said. "Let's find her."

They looked at one another, but there was no amusement in saying the same thing at the same time. It was something mother and daughter had in common, at least one thing, the desire to see Rinalla was safe. Paranoia or not.

Barenziah stepped outside, where her red-armored royal guard stood, and ordered them to begin searching the parkland surrounding the palace.

Morgiah did the same with her royal guard.

Both queens told the guards to be discreet. No sense in inciting panic, just yet.
[278] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 02:17 AM

[282] 

Loranna hesitates for just half a second, then follows the two Queens, intent on searching the parkland herself. Though she makes sure to sheathe herself in her strongest shield spells and then turn invisible before she gets outside, gliding soundlessly an inch over the ground.
[283] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 02:22 AM

[287] 

'The pretty things are nice, yes, but although I folow the dogma of Dibella, I am actually a knight in the Order of the Lilly. I am sworn to protect the beautiful. But all the questing for useless artifacts, lost censors, dating people to get donations has jaded me. Perhaps there is nothing beautiful left in this world but whats in this garden. If you ever become a princess...' Maranda stopped suddenly, 'What was that?' [288] 

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Jan 23 2006, 02:23 AM

Summary

Kratos has made his intentions clear to Loranna in the form of a letter. He wishes to take a break from Molag Mar and the weariness of fighting nonstop.

Ivelaes is with his father.

Astien continues his various potion makings and studies at the Mages Guild. [289] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 02:25 AM

[293] 
Anya shook her head, and waved Telera to come closer, patting the bed, "I would have expected a little more after we've shared beds. You know full well that you're using idiotic extremes for this, there's another reason you hid it."

"Telera, I love you, and we've known each other for a long time now. Please trust a person that continuously hides her face behind a mask now when she says that it's always better to have people to trust and share problems with."

She smiled playfully, moving over to make room for Telera to sit down, "Besides, I think I have you trounced with your dagger on life issues." [294] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 02:29 AM

[298] 

It had been the barest creak in a tree. Miranda, looking up, had seen a figure in the branches. It was Goranthir, or Geht, as he was now known. He was crouching, looking down at them, his now golden-colored eyes narrowed in hate.

Before Miranda could react, she heard one of the knights scream. A huge worms had rocketed out from the ground and encircled around him, crushing the life from him, despite his armor, before he had unsheathed his sword.

Rinalla screamed too, and ran for the fountain in the center of the garden as the ground erupted and more of the worms emerged. One of them made a grab for Miranda.

The other two guards ran after Rinnala.

Overhead, the moons vanished. The sky was filled with birds. [299] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 02:35 AM

[303] 

'Now, if this isnt a surprise' Maranda said, conjouring a sword and parrying the worms attack, 'Goran, or Geht, as I hear you like to be called now... out for your sister I see?' she parried another attack, 'I, Maranda Biennie, Knight of the Lilly have sworn to protect the beautiful, even with my life! Princess, stay near the fountian! I shant let your brother, nor the monster he has become, to harm you!' a second sword was summoned in her left hand, 'Bring it on, fiend!' [304] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 02:40 AM

[308] 
“Maybe by just a little,” Telera giggled; glad to see Anya smiling. She threw her arms around Anya, “Thank you.” [309] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 02:44 AM

[313] 

Rinalla had almost made it to the fountain when she stopped on Maranda's words. "My brother? Gor -"

The worms beneath her coiled around her in a second, but her knights leapt on it with their swords, slicing it apart.

Maranda could scarcely tell that by mentioning Rinalla's brother, she had stopped Rinalla in her tracks. She was busy fending off the birds which had begun their attack on her.
[314] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 02:47 AM

[318] 
Anya held Telera, kissing her lightly on the lips, "I should be thanking you."

She felt something moist along her shirt, and her nostrils flared. She took Telera's arm and held it in front of her. Slowly, she licked the blood left from her cut, cleaning it off. She layed Telera down on the bed, leaning over her and whispering, "You taste so sweet."

She quickly took off her now bloodied shirt, a new vigor having filled her. She smiled coyly at Telera, "You really cut deep to leave that much, dear. Lets see how long your stamina holds against my own, now." [319] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 02:52 AM

[323] 

Loranna bursts into the parkway to discover a scene out of Vaermina's twisted mind; the moons blotted out by an inky, rolling blackness and large, squirming worms breaking through the ground, being sliced open, crushing people ...

Dear Dibella what am I DOING out here!? the panicked expectant mother thinks, ducking low to avoid the birds. Then, Loranna sees Rinalla, standing near the fountain and looking very, very frightened, and she remembers why she's here.

Pushing her levitation bracelet as much as she can, Loranna soars low to the ground toward the frightened Princess, weaving protective magic to shield the young girl as she moves to get Rinalla out of harm's way.[324] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 02:57 AM

[328] 

'Now, I shall get payback for Anvil!' Maranda yelled, continuing to parry the worms and birds attacks, yet not noticing Rinalla in peril yet, her finger slid across the ring on her finger, 'I call thee fowarth, I summon the,

FLAMEY!!!!!!!!!!!

High above the city of firsthold, the skys darkened. Those looking up could see five scarlet red lights forming in the sky... suddenly, a beam of lights blasted out of one of the points to another, intill a penticle had formed. Around the five points, daedric letters begain to shine, Hefhed, Lyr, Ayem, Meht, Ekem, Yahkem. a silence came over the city, before they heard it...

ROAR!!!!

the twenty foot flame monarch crashed into the gardens, his head visible over the castle walls, the fire from the heat he generated burnt all that was around him... it was then Maranda noticed Rinalla... her eyes wide in shock, 'Flamey, take care of this!'
'Roar' was the confident reply as Maranda sprinted towards the princess [329] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:00 AM

[333] 

The birds moved as one, each of the crickbeaks the size of a human child, and each equipped with razor-sharp beaks and talons, they moved in on Loranna.

Loranna's protective magicks shielded Rinalla as birds from above and worms from below struck at her.

Still, she didn't move from her spot, shrieking at Maranda. "Don't you hurt my brother!"

One of Rinalla's guards fell backward, shielding himself from a crickbeak's attack, and the second he landed on the ground, a worm circled around his neck, decapitating him. Now only one guard of Rinalla's royal guard remained.
[334] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:11 AM

The Flame Monarch's fist pulverized the tree Geht was in, and it exploded it a fireball.

"Oh, Maranda" Geht's voice could be heard. He knew this garden well, all its hidden corners.

The ground around "Flamey" crumbled, and the Flame Monarch dropped into a pit the worms had dug.[335] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 03:18 AM

[339] 

Maranda saw Loranna was taking care of the princess, and turned to face Geht, only in shock to see her mighty flame monarch fall into the earth before her, 'Thats a novel way of doing things...' a snap of her fingers placed a mark, and under her breath she whispered levitation. Five meters up, she cast a spell of lightning in the direction of Goran's voice. Her mind passed through all the spells she knew... and none of them could decloak this hidden preditor... but then it hit her, another worry, the birds... Her next spell was a fire spell, a radius ten meters of her suddenly burst into flames, if only for a second, burning the birds, Maranda's sword finished the job... that solved one of her problems temperarily, and another soon brought its way to the fore, her summoned blade dissapated. She quickly called forth another... [340] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:23 AM

[344] 

Rinalla screamed as dead, blackened birds fell from the sky all around her. Her knight grabbed her in his arms and ran for the fountain.

'Miranda!' a familiar-sounding voice called out from the corner of the garden.[345] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 03:25 AM

[349] 

Maranda's eyes opened wide... that couldnt be... she turned to look at the corner of the garden where it came from... she was dead, wasnt she? [350] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 03:27 AM

[354] 

Loranna didn't have time to see who the voice calling for Miranda was; she cast a protective spell after the Princess and the knight and moved after them ... [355] 

Posted by: Teleran Jan 23 2006, 03:28 AM

[359] 
Telera jerked a little when Anya began licking the blood from her arm, was Anya was still thirsty? Those thoughts were pushed from Telera’s mind soon though as she failed to feel the sting of fangs and her mind turned to other matters as Anya issued her challenge. She pulled Anya to her wordlessly to kiss her passionately. Giving a slight start at the coolness of Anya’s lips, she resolved to make sure Anya was warm the rest of the night. [360] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:36 AM

[364] 

If she was dead, she didn't seem to know it.

'Maranda,' Shardie said, smiling, stepping out from behind a trellis of gray leaves that scarcely shook at her movements. She was exactly as Miranda remembered her. She even had the white-gold sword in her hand. 'And Loranna, fighting together. What would Meridia say?'[365] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:38 AM

[369] 

The knight and Rinalla, with Loranna's spells, had reached the fountain. They leapt into it, as worms lashed out at them, trying to grab hold.

"She's trying to hurt my brother!" Rinalla cried to Loranna. "Can you stop her?!"

The girl was hysterical with fear, but for her brother as much as herself.
[370] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 03:39 AM

[374] 

Maranda was pale, as pale as she had ever been, 'But.... your... your dead... how can you be here?' Her summoned swords dissapeared, as she walked towards Shardie, her long departed friend... who she killed over a year ago at the command of Meridia. It had been a turning point in her life, where she decided that she would set things straight, for Shardie, her only, and best friend... [375] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:42 AM

[379] 

'You killed me,' Shardie said, as matter-of-factly as if she had named her favorite color or song. 'But you loved me. And you mustn't fear death. It is beautiful beyond all life's beauties.'

She raised the sword. 'Close your eyes, and you will truly see for the first time.'[380] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 03:45 AM

[384] 

Loranna casts a few frostballs at some worms, helping the knight to fend them off.

"Your Highness ..." Loranna says, about to say that that demon attacking her wasn't her brother - but if Geht were injured or killed, Goranthir was lost to them as well.

"Can you handle these from here?" Loranna yells to the guard, her eyes turning toward Maranda and Geht ...[385] 

[388] 

... and finding Maranda facing a woman she herself only somewhat remembered, other than she was one of Maranda's companions during the days when she still served Meridia - but Loranna recalled after a second that this was Shardie, the woman who threw Aricyn the dreaded Moon Reiver blade at Suran.

Loranna could have sworn she was dead; she recalled Maranda mentioning it at some point.

" ... Maranda, be careful!" Loranna says, seeing the Breton had lowered her guard ...[389] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 03:46 AM

[393] 

'But...' Maranda said slowly, now almost at Shardie

Firsthold, Main Street

'Did you see that thing in the sky?'
'what was it?'
the two men were pushed aside by a man running, a Dunmer in black and red robes, completly out of place... he was heading for the palace
'Bloody forigners' remarked the first man as they resumed thier conversation on what the red penticle meant [394] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:49 AM

[398] 

At that, a worm, twice as thick as a man's arm, had grabbed Loranna around the neck, and yanked, hard, to either break her neck or pull her into the ground.
[399] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:50 AM

[403] 

'Close your eyes, friend,' Shardie whispered sweetly. Her eyes were as calm and mild as ever, and as filled with love. 'Close your eyes, and open them to beauty.' [404] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:53 AM

[408] 

At the palace gates, the guards stopped him.

"I'm sorry, sir," the first guard said. "You need an invitation for tonight's event."[409] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 03:54 AM

[413] 

Loranna's next spell gets cut off as she gets grabbed around the throat ...

Letting out a strangled cry, she feels her neck snap ... and heal, thanks to the power of her potions. But the pain was intense, and her legs buckle, and she is pulled down ...[414] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 03:57 AM

[418] 

Rinnala screams, and the guard grabs for Loranna as she is pulled out of sight.

The red-armored guards of the royal house of Morrowind are the first of the searching guards to hear, and then run through the parkland to assist ...[419] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 03:59 AM

[423] 

A draw of the sword was the end of the guards, and with unhuman like speed, the Dunmer leaped over the gates, and made his way for the garden[424] 

[427] 

Maranda closed her eyes, as if under some hypnotic power... [428] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 04:02 AM

[432] 

The party guests stopped to stare.

Some of them laughed. "Well, of course he's in a hurry. Not even dressed properly."[433] 

[436] 

'I love you,' Shardie as she swung the sword at Maranda's neck.

Mannimarco's laugh echoed forth in the garden, mixed with Rinnala's scream. [437] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 04:25 AM

[441] 

Where were they? the Gardens? Drevious couldnt tell which ones, and instinctivly headed for the garden of silence[442] 

[445] 

The laugh and scream brought Maranda out of the trance, but the blade, poisoned by the ancient nightshade tree struck her deep. her eyes hazy, she saw the princess and Loranna in trouble. She remembered... didnt she cast a Mark spell near them? Before Shardie could get in a second blow, Maranda cast the recall spell, instantainously recalling to right near the stricken Loranna and Princess were, and using the last of her magicka, cast the most powerful fire spell she could muster, burning the worms to a crisp... advancing slowly towards the two of them, she smiled, 'I did it, I protected the... beautiful...' she fell to the ground as drevious entered the gardens, his mistform sword sucking all the moisture from the air to create a weapon of rage... A look at the collapsed Maranda, was all it took before he yelled, 'Mannimarco, you have defied your gods for the last time!' [446] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 04:34 AM

[450] 

Rinnala grabbed her, as the red-armored royal guards of Morrowind reached the fountain.

"Maranda! Wake up!" the Princess called. "I'm sorry! Wake up!"[451] 

[454] 

'Oh really?' Mannimarco, unseen, chuckled.

The guards of Firsthold, on arriving and hearing his voice, stopped in fear. They knew him. The King of Worms. The former scourge of Firsthold.

'When do you fancy a Duke outranks a King?'

A column of bone rose up from the ground, encasing Drevious.[455] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 04:57 AM

[459] 

Loranna gets painfully to her feet, her eyes wide with shock as she sees Maranda falling down. She raises her hands and blue light envelops them, streaking toward Maranda with all the healing power Loranna can muster.

But all Loranna succeeded in doing was illuminating a corpse as it fell to the ground; Maranda had died before Loranna could react. The Breton woman falls, the blue nimbus glowing beautifically in the darkness of the night.

Tears rolled down Loranna's cheeks, staining her dress. "You did it Maranda ..." she whispers. "May you find happiness now in that paradise ..."

Trembling, Loranna turns her eyes toward Rinalla, then says "I won't let your sacrifice be in vain, Maranda; beauty must be preserved. ..." as she hurries toward the Princess. Despite having been trapped among immolated worms, Loranna looks fine.

"Your Highness, be strong," she says gently, weaving a spell to lend courage to those who heard her. "Maranda is with Dibella now ... and your brother's going to be okay; we need to get you out of here though, before the man with the evil laugh tries to hurt you again."

She had knelt down to look Rinalla eye to eye as she spoke, smoothing the girl's hair out of her face. She smiles again, reassuringly, her tearstreaks shining in the darkness as she quietlyweaves another protective spell for Rinalla. [460] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 05:01 AM

[464] 

Rinalla wraps her arms around Loranna, crying, but less scared than she had been before.

Barenziah coming in from the parks, and Morgiah coming in from the palace, together with their guards, stares out across the ravaged place of burning embers and upturned earth which had been the Sleeping Gardens of Firsthold.[465] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 05:02 AM

[469] 

'so you admit it,' a voice came from the bone, 'You are mearly a smelly necromancer king, not a god. That makes things... easy' there was a blast from the bone wall as Drevious smashed out of his prison and dived down the hole the worms made and the flame monarch fell down, yelling, 'She was my quarry, and you took her! I shant let you live, Mannimarco, Goranthar!' [470] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 05:06 AM

[474] 

Morgiah ran past the Daedra, grabbing Rinalla from Loranna's hands. Mother and daughter held each other, and wept.

King Reman could be seen now, looking into the garden from a window, together with more than a few guests. His face was plainly horrified by what he had witnessed.
[475] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 05:12 AM

[479] 

Loranna stands near the Queen and Princess, protecting them both with her magic. She catches Morgiah's eye, and despite everything, she offers a reassuring smile.

"Remember Your Majesty, it's never too late to build anew," she says gently, her tearstreaks shining in the night. "No matter how bad things look." [480] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 05:19 AM

[484] 

Morgiah looked to Loranna and nodded. There was, in this moment at least, no pride or defiance or selfishness in her. That would change, surely, but at this instant, it was raw emotion as she held her child.

Barenziah joined them, and Rinnala reached for her, crying, "Grandma!"

[485] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 05:26 AM

[489] 

'My my, what a touching moment,' Drevious said, appering from out of nowhere, and bending down to the now dead body of Maranda Biennie, 'You were my quarry, but I failed to take you. I shall take this ring as payment for services due' he slowly pulled the Ring of the Shadowmind from Maranda's finger, the very moment he did so, he seemed to turn to mist, an aftershadow lingered, 'I am sorry to inturde on your moment, your Majestys, may you have a nice party' the aftershadow vanished, but the voice lingered, 'I lost the prince, and his feeble and weak king, perhaps they will have better luck finding them' he made no mention on who 'They' were [490] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 05:31 AM

[494] 

Loranna doesn't say anything when Drevious speaks, growing a bit stiff as he lent over Maranda's body ... but she kept her tongue to herself.

Once Drevious is gone, Loranna walks over to Maranda's corpse and smooths her hair out of her face, her tears returning.

" ... When we met, I thought we were so alike; I hoped we could be friends, fellow souls bearing the burden of our goddesses," she says quietly. "In the end, dear, though we spent but little time together, I was proud to call you friend ..."

She pulls Maranda to her and hugs her departed friend tightly, whispering "Thank you for everything you gave us ..." in between her tears.[495] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 05:35 AM

[499] 

Rinalla buried her head simultaneously in the group of Loranna, Morgiah, and Barenziah.

"Goranthir hates me and wants me dead," Rinnala sniffled.

"No, that is not true. I will do what needs to be done," Morgiah said at last. "I only ask one last favor. It is not for my sake, but for Goranthir's. When you speak of this to anyone but those you trust, do not speak of his involvement in it. If we are able to save him, I do not want everyone to know that he was here this night. We know that was not him, but ..."

Barenziah nodded. "We do not want to free him of this curse, and have it linger. He may yet be King of Firsthold."
[500] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 05:40 AM

[504] 

"His soul is that of a High King," Loranna says quietly, returning to the group embrace after paying her respects to Maranda. "So far as anyone else is concerned, he was not here tonight.

She smiles again, though the brief moment of serenity she felt when she encouraged Morgiah was slowly fading, leaving her tired, and scared for herself and her friends - and short one companion forever.

But, like she had told Morgiah, it was never too late to begin anew. If you could find the strength to go on.[505] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 23 2006, 07:32 AM

Shaka walked closer to the women, his tunic and trousers as bloodstained and torn as many of the others', outer robe long since discarded near the War Room to free him for the search and the battle. He and others of Loranna's companions had fought for their lives against the controlled creatures while the princess' drama had played out.

Goodbye, Maranda, he thought with sorrow. I wish I could believe you're in a better place. I just don't know. . . . Shaka would never know for certain until the day he was himself snuffed out.

Maranda had sometimes been a laughable woman, but she had fought bravely when the chips were down. She hadn't deserved to go out like this.

Maybe we should have killed Geht back in Ald Sotha, when we still had the chance, he thought. But Shaka knew he couldn't have anyway, it wasn't in his nature to be a calculating killer. All they could do now was see if redemption was still possible for the prince. [506] 

Posted by: Arynel Jan 23 2006, 09:12 AM

The air was salty as Arynel walked along the gentle swells just off the shore of Ald Raathim. There was something else in the air too, the Breton sensed. Lingering cold and death, carried by the wind. [507] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Jan 23 2006, 09:59 AM

Commander Slashes-With-Claws was busy with his usual duties in Ald Raathim. He was also holding special training sessions for the other Argonians, teaching them to use the abilities they were born with in combat. To use the predatorial instincts they were born with to make them react faster and be more agressive fighters.

In the little free time he has he was busy crafting something. He had just finished it. It looked like a finger off a gauntlet with a metal claw on the end. The claw had been fasioned out of a piece of the crab that Slashes had captured, it was sharp and deadly. He sliped the finger over his shortened left ring finger and tightened a few small bands to hold it in place. On the inside of the metal finger were small barbs that would catch on his scales to help heep it on. He flexed his hand, the metal moved easily, the end did not bend all the way without the last joint being there. He had ten claws again, he wondered if it could be enchanted. [508] 

Posted by: Argoniansoulpower Jan 23 2006, 11:13 AM

Summary for Stre-Krel:

After some time wandering the city of Firsthold, and little luck in the way of finding a job, Stre-krel(Walks-with-a-burden) has traveled back to the city of Ald Raathim, and has followed a small group of Argonians to a training room. [509] 

Posted by: S'reddit Jan 23 2006, 11:16 AM

The Royal Cotillion, Firsthold

The King made the announcement to the assembled guests that the party was over. There had been an attempt on Princess Rinnala's life, possibly from the same people who had murdered Prince Aedrin.

The crowd, disappointed but fascinated by this, left quietly. It was not as long of a party as they had hoped, but they would always remember the time where they danced across Nirn, while an assassination attempt was made against a 10-year-old girl.[510] 

Posted by: Argoniansoulpower Jan 23 2006, 11:38 AM

Stre-Krel

He produces the broken head-end of the spear from his sidebelt and inquires to the nearest Argonian,"Are their any skilled armorers among us here? I will only trust my possessions in the hands of a marsh-brother". [511] 

Posted by: One87xe Jan 23 2006, 12:02 PM

[515] 


*...Firsthold, the Path to the Royal Cotillion...it had taken much longer then Osa anticipated to finish her tasks, yesterday most of the Tailors were out of white cloth, and even less silver material was to be found...however perhaps by pure dumb luck or some unexpected miracle, she found one small, out-of -the-way shop just as she began to give up hope. While the elder Altmer Tailor was more then reluctant to help an outsider, the appeal of Osa's gold was just enough to sway her in Osa's favor.

A sleepless night was then had, and the anticipation begin to swell deep inside her, almost causing her stomach to cramp. The morning hadn't come fast enough and the knock at Osa's door was almost surreal. The Tailor walked in, puffy red eyes and flustered attitude about the all-nighter she had just put in to help an outsider, and wasn't above letting Osa know about her frustrations. Osa took her verbal abuse in stride, affixated by the shimmering flowing garment before her, a thing of true beauty only a master could bring to reality. Osa accepted the gown and rubbed it along her cheek, feeling the silky smoothness run across her skin. The Tailor, though upset, couldn't help but shed a smile as she excused herself from the room. Osa then wasted no time in taking one more bath, just in case.

Finally she finished, although the dress was slightly shorter then Osa had anticipated, and gathered a small pocket book, a quill, and what little ink she had left and set off for the festivities, giddy as a child. She made one final stop, a small shop she had passed by yesterday, and purchased the last tiny bottle of Telvanni Bug Musk which consequently left her near broke. After applying some of the Musk, made her way towards the party, only to be met with a ghastly sight.

Several of the guests were already making their way out and Osa attempted to learn what the problem was, only finding that the party had been cancelled due to an attempt on one of the Noble's. Disappointed Osa then strives for information on the "Tamrielic Dancefloor" and "feeling like giants among Akavir" she hears guests saying as they walk past. Sadly most of the guests give little or no notice to her querry, and she begins to grow frustrated.
Leaving before her feelings get hurt, she browses some more of the shops and galleries along her walk back to the Inn. Stunned and semi-heartbroken Osa wonders what to do next as she glances at a brand new leather pouch, just perfect for Osa's travels, and its on sell too...* [516] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 12:36 PM

[520] 
Stepped out for some fresh air.... Reeds thought as he returned to the Inn. He had a hunch on who was participating to make it an attempt instead of the real thing. No doubt he'd hear about it when he got back...

He reached the Inn, sat down, and ordered dinner. [521] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Jan 23 2006, 03:56 PM

OOC: Summary
Dar'Tessir is in the Nymph & Noggin. Having just finished his book he is experiencing the onset of boredom. [522] 

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 23 2006, 04:04 PM

Summary for Erenius:
With the rest of the main Firsthold group, at the park, after the attack now. Expecting conflict between Barenziah and Morgiah, Erenius stayed behind as the others went forth to the park.
======
Erenius walks towards Maranda's corpse and kneels before it.

"I met you but once, while we travelled through the frozen trails of Skyrim," Erenius mumbles. "Even then I barely knew you, but to see you fall like this is a true tragedy, considerring you had since forsaken Meridia, and walked in Dibella's favor. 'Tis a shame for you to have left so soon."

With those few words, Erenius makes a fist, kisses his index finger's first knuckle, and then presses it to the ground before Maranda's body. [523] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Jan 23 2006, 05:13 PM

There's land and sea,
There's sun and sky,
Yet so long they last we all shall die.

We may feel, we may think,
We may laugh and cry,
Yet all we manage from dusk till dawn is to make our own kin die.

In deepest thought
In darkest night
The death shall come, in all its height

Forever and ever,
With coin and with bribe
We have tried to avoid its wrath
Yet 'tis nature's will that we cross its path

Vaan remembered the old poem as he walked slowly over to Maranda's corpse. He had not known this woman, but naturally, he understood that others clearly had loved her. Loranna had loved her, so she must've been a wonderful person.

Had they ever crossed paths, then Vaan was sure that he would've adored her too, like all the other people around him. He took a Rose from the garden, and removed all of it's sharp thorns, before placing it gently in Maranda's lifeless hand.

"There. I know it's not a Lily, but it's beautiful, right?"

He stepped back, and remembered once more the old saying of his:

"And now, let there be an end to all things."






(OOC: Beautiful Poem courtesy of Firemaster.)[524] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 05:33 PM

After seeing if the Queens and their guards had any need of her healing magic, Loranna speaks quietly to Morgiah about Maranda's body, then turns to her companions.

" ... We've done everything we can here," she says. "We might as well head back to our tavern and get some rest ..."

She looks at Slyvos somewhat guiltily, but holds out her hand to him. " ... Let's go ..." [525] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 05:41 PM

[529] 

The guards respectfully took Maranda's body, putting it in the vault of the palace until arrangements could be made for its burial. Morgiah had volunteered that, if Maranda had no family or others requesting her body, she could be buried in the palace walls as befitting a hero of Firsthold.[530] 

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 23 2006, 05:41 PM

Erenius nods and stands up, wiping the dust from his pants before turning and leaving towards the tavern that they were staying.

'But I wonder, would the same have been done for any of us by the Queen had any more fallen?' Erenius wonders. [531] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 05:51 PM

The Lady's Kiss Tavern, Firsthold

From the dress of the patrons, it was clear that most had come directly from the Cotillion Ball. Gossip was running wild. Who had tried to kill Princess Rinnala and why? There was a daedra involved, that was for certain, but some of the guards swore they heard the voice of Mannimarco. [532] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 06:14 PM

[536] 

Slyvos sighed, his fur a bit ruffled from the fight earlier, during which he was busy burning birds into tiny little piles of ash. He had to admit, that part was fun, but he was not at all happy with both the situation, and a certain nord he had to talk with about her behavior...

When he, Loranna, and the others that were had gone to the tavern arrived, he picked one of the more secluded places in the room to sit, making occasional glances at Loranna's dirtied up dress which was messed up during the fight. He didn't say anything at first, as they sat down, but his furious appearance spoke louder then words could; without making a scene, that is. [537] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 06:28 PM

[541] 

Loranna's dishevledness, and the group's general mein, draw some curious looks from the other returning guests. Loranna's stare, however, convinces many to wait until later to seek juicy gossip.

Sitting down in the booth, Loranna looks over at Slyvos, and her expression becomes one of annoyance and tiredness. "I know, I know ..." she says. "I shouldn't have ... but ..."
[542] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 06:33 PM

When Loranna said the word 'but', he put a hand up in front of his face, his head hanging a bit. He gazed into Loranna's eyes carefully, trying to pick out the words to say. However, the ones that came out, were a bit more harsh then he'd have liked to have used.

"but nothing. You remember what you said, and you went back on it to save someone you hardly even know. Normally, I wouldn't have a problem with this, but look at yourself! You heard what happened to Kethiah; do you really want to risk it for yourself?"

He made sure his voice wasn't loud enough for the people around them to hear clearly, because otherwise gossip would spread even faster and about the wrong things. [543] 

Posted by: Aki Jan 23 2006, 06:39 PM

Summary

Reichi Sari (During my week long absense) has been in Ald Raathim, and still is, as he feels it shouldn't be left without too many heroes to protect it, as much as he'd like to have visited firsthold. No matter though, Reichi didn't exactly want to have to buy some white clothing, as the only white coat he has is fur - and comes with fangs and teeth.[544]  [545] 

As such, the Dunmer is helping around in Ald Raathim, and keeping a wary eye out for any signs of Redoran attacks. [546] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 06:42 PM

ooc: Isidor is doing something in the Nymph and Noggin, while Kethiah rests.

Ingmar is helping out around the town, thinking on a variety of things.

Tsei is somewhere. [547] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 06:48 PM

[551] 

"No, I don't," Loranna says, keeping her voice low, "and I'm just as angry at myself too ... but she needed help and I was right there. I couldn't just not do anything!"

She glares back at Slyvos, muttering "If it'd been our child, an someone stood by to watch her die ... how would you feel?" [552] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 06:53 PM

Slyvos shook a bit, standing up slightly in rage. And had anyone ever seen him this angry before, just at the mention of what Loranna last said? One would highly doubt it, but his face was scrunched up in anger. "don't, ever, mention my kids, past or future, dieing, Loranna. Especially not used in comparison to something else." He forced himself to sit down, his face turned away from his wife to prevent himself from lashing out again.

He had a feeling he would regret saying that... but it had to be said. [553] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 07:02 PM

[557] 

Oh god, what the hell was I thinking! Loranna regretted her words the moment they left her mouth and she saw Slyvos's body shake, realizing what she had just said ... realizing she had just asked the mer who ha once turned his back on the world because he saw his children die while helpless to save them what he would have thought if she herself let someone's child die.

Loranna looks down at the table, unable to face Slyvos's eyes right now. Damnit, damnit, damnit! but she was an idiot ... [558] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 07:14 PM

[562] 

why did she have to bring that up... just thinking about it makes me want to kill that bastard of a father all over again. Makes me want to kill anyone that would do that to their kids... or family. "I'm going. next time try to remember how your actions and words effect others first, Loranna... it's a lesson I'm still trying to figure out myself."

He got up from the table, giving Loranna a sad glance, and walked out of the tavern to wander the streets aimlessly, lost in thought once more, alone. [563] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 23 2006, 07:18 PM

[567] 

A little embarrassed, Shaka sat on the other side of the taproom. He could guess what the two were arguing about -- Shaka was also concerned for Loranna and the child -- but he had never liked to see the group divided against itself.

Better to stay out of it for now. Somehow it made him miss Anya and Telera all the more. Maybe because it reminded him that it was better to have someone to be concerned about, than to be a drifter as it seemed he had been for most of his life.

Shaka nursed a dark Aldmer beer, unsurprisingly an exceptional one, as much of their food and drink seemed to be. Finally he got up and approached Loranna, but didn't sit down, waiting for her permission.[568] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 07:37 PM

[572] 

Loranna looks miserable; it takes a moment for her to acknowledge Shaka's presence, and then her gesture for him to sit is half-hearted.

I should go after him ... but it's not going to help right now ... damnit, why did I bring that up... damnit why did he have to get so angry ... Loranna growls in frustration.[573] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 23 2006, 07:47 PM

[577] 

Shaka sat and looked at her sympathetically. "Maybe that's progress. A year ago he would have just withdrawn from you, or not come along on this mission in the first place. . . . It's obvious that you two love each other, though, so he'll probably be back this evening, before too long."

"For what it's worth, I understand Morgiah better now. She's more than the rumors about her and her long reach. Something she said stayed in my memory: that she loved Reman from the start. It makes her more . . . mortal to me. All that she's done started from that, that she wanted a place of her own, and a love."

Shaka wouldn't have spoken about confidential matters, but they seemed isolated enough from the public's ears.

"I don't want to bother you, Duchess, but I just wanted to lend an ear if you need it, and to say that I'm sorry about Maranda. I didn't know her that well, but I think she was once an enemy? And yet she sacrificed herself today. A loss to all of us."[578] 

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 23 2006, 07:51 PM

Erenius looks over as the argument between Loranna and Slyvos came to a head. He happens to be sitting about a table and a half away to their left, close to the bar, and is sippig the ebonille, finally getting around to trying it after everyone touted its abilities, whatever those might be.

As Shaka came forth, he turned his attention back to the drink he had partially forgotten.

'This party will be divided, again and again, over similar issues,' Erenius thinks to himself, realizing that as things get worse in Firsthold the unity of the party will slowly falter. [579] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 07:54 PM

[583] 

"An enemy ... who was trying to do the right thing," Loranna says after a moment, laughing somewhat bitterly.

"You know, I always wanted to get to know her better in the beginning? Then came her sister's wedding and she drove me absolutely batty ... yet I never could quite imagine life without her around somewhere?" she says, beckoning for a barmaid to bring over something to wet her throat. Her voice was getting a little hoarse.

Wiping her eyes, she waits for her drink and says " ... I'll miss her ..."[584] 

Posted by: Solin Jan 23 2006, 08:00 PM

Any fisherman or other frequenter of the shore of Ald Raathim would tell you that Solin was fond of the sea. More often than not if one looked hard enough, one could spot the remnants of a smoldering fire, sometimes accompanied by a lone figure and other not.

The Dunmer sat back, resting his weight on his palms in the sand as he stared, contemplating, out at the waters. The distant Red Mountain was perfectly positioned for a magnificant view. [585] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 23 2006, 08:06 PM

[589] 

Shaka squeezed her hand for a second, then set it back down. "I was like everyone else, joking about 'Lady Bountiful' after the daedroth changed her appearance. But she humbled me today, giving her life with faith like that of a child."

"Maybe you can notify your fellow believers that their knight is gone. The priesthood would want to know, I imagine."

"Anyway, the group is here for you and Slyvos, Loranna. We'll leave Firsthold whenever you think it appropriate, or stay."[590] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 08:17 PM

[594] 

Leave it to Shaka, Loranna thinks with grim humor, to mention things completely not on my mind this moment. With Maranda dead, Mannimarco awake and active, and Slyvos and I angry at each other, he's wondering about when I think we should leave Firsthold.

For a moment she was thoroughly annoyed at Shaka for missing what was on her mind - and then, the annoyance passed. It wasn't worth it, she realized; Shaka was just trying to help, probably felt awkward and out at sea with her and Slyvos fighting right now, but he was trying to help anyway.

It helped; she was still upset and miserable, but it helped none the less.

"I think we'll head back tomorrow; there's a few things remaining I want to see to before we go, though," Loranna says. "Just want to make sure everything here is in order before we go ..."[595] 

Posted by: syronj Jan 23 2006, 08:24 PM

[599] 

Shaka nodded and got to his feet. Probably better to give Loranna some peace before the making-up with Slyvos . . . .

Still keeping his voice low, he said: "I hadn't thought on my own of seeking out Mannimarco, but we all stand ready, if that's the next step. . . . Thanks for letting me ramble."

Shaka went back to his table and picked up his mug.[600] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 08:26 PM

The Lady's Kiss Tavern, Firsthold[601] 

[604] 
"Making sure that 'everything is in order' will be a hard feat, Loranna.", Nalion said as he entered the Lady's Kiss. The mage looked very weary, exhausted and sad, no wonder concerning what happened last night and taking into account that he had to share a room.
"There is much to do yet, and much to fix. I should have known it. Mannimarco has taken over completely. But we should not give up hope. We've defied gods before. I believe I have to find Arynel soon." [605] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 08:27 PM

[609] 

The gossip in the tavern reached a fevered buzz.

"If that's true," one skeptical noble Altmer female was saying. "It will take an act of the royal parliament to be ratified."

"Why would it happen? Why now?"

"I heard she was in league with the Daedra who sought to slay Rinnala."

"I never trusted the Dark Queen, not for a moment."

"It will not take an act of parliament, but special committee to find that the request had merit, the marriage would be dissolved."

"What will happen to the children? Will they be disinherited?"

"I don't believe it."

"I do."[610] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 08:55 PM

[614] 

Loranna looks over to Nalion, and says "I never gave up hope; we should find Arynel soon, though."

Nalion looked almost as bad as Loranna felt; the ashen-skinned Nord woman sighs, wanting just to stop and catch her breath, but unable to keep herself from thinking about the things they'd need to do next. Scourg Barrow needed to be investigated, Goranthir found and saved, the Redoran and Indoril were still a threat ...[615] 

[618] 

Loranna frowns as the rumors circulating around the tavern reach her ears. "Here's hoping this good act doesn't get too bogged down ..." she mutters quietly to Nalion.

" ... Dears, if you'll excuse me; I feel a need for some fresh air ..." Loranna rises, heading for the door.[619] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 08:57 PM

After less than a day of running the tavern, Isidor could see how Kethiah could've been exhausted, with just the one job, let alone three.

Isidor was now relaxing at the bar, waiting for Bob to finish with something he had asked him to make. [620] 

Posted by: Xyber02 Jan 23 2006, 09:05 PM

Bob's corner of his mouth turned in a small smile. The meal was finished. Specially comission for Mistress Kethiah by Master Isidor.

He poored the broth into a bowl, and placed it on a platter. He made sure to cook the guar meat in a special sauce with herbs that were known to aid a person in healing. The meat was added to the broth in a way that suggested her health was in mind but he didn't doubt her tenacity. He put the side dish with scrib jelly and scrib jerky and the glass of comberry juice mixed with a small concotion of his own.

Bob sent a waitress for Isidor, "Master Isidor, the meal you have requested is prepared. Please give the Lady my deepest regards and let it be known my full prowess was applied to this meal. She needn't fear for her tavern, for I shall ensure the smooth operation of the kitchen and bar while you attend to matters more grave than this." [621] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 09:07 PM

The windows glistened with the colours which could not be named, the Gothic arches created a natural path to the platinum and silver throne which was beneath the most spectacular stained glass window in all of Oblivion... at least, she liked to thing so, In this gothic cathedral, a cathedral to colour and magic she sat, hearing the news
'Are you sure?' she asked
'Positive' the dark skinned Daedra replied, 'I have a token of the victim' the Daedra presented a silver ring, a purple diamond as its centerpiece
'But you did not commit the act, correct?'
'Correct. I was beaten to it'
'By whom?' she said, in a tone which made the Daedra think that he already knew...
'The Altmer Necromancer, Mannimarco'
'How can you be so certain that he is an Altmer?'
'Firstly the name, secondly his obsession with the throne of Firsthold'
'Hmm, very well, Drevious, take a holiday. We have no more business with this group for the time being'
The Daedra bowed and left the room, and Daedric Prince to her own thoughts. [622] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 09:08 PM

[626] 
Nalion frowned at the rumours. He knew that the Altmer had never truly liked having a Darkelf Queen and just this rumour might be the one to spark more... unpleasant things.

Looking at Loranna's distraught face, Nalion followed her outside.
"Where are you going, Loranna? Mind if I accompany you a bit?", the mage asked. [627] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 09:09 PM

[631] 
Isidor smiled, Bob may have been nuts, but he was a good cook ...

Picking up the tray, he walked up to Kethiah's room.

"Knock, knock." [632] 

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

[636] 

Loranna pauses in mid-step, not really looking at Nalion.

"Slyvos and I are fighting again," she says quetly. "About me throwing myself into danger like I always do ..."[637] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 09:15 PM

Kethiah's Room, The Nymph and Noggin[638] 

[641] 

"Come in," Kethiah called, sitting up straight in bed.

She looked much better, if still a little more pallid than usual. "Has anyone been asking for me?"

As a matter of fact, many had. Most Isidor had been able to deal with on his own, but a few said that they would come back when Kethiah was feeling better. These were no doubt not merchants but spies. [642] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 09:18 PM

[646] 
"You've been asked about quite a lot, yes." Isidor said, walking in to the room with the tray in hand. "By some rather attractive merchants as well; if I didn't know better, I'd be jealous." He said with a wink.

He brought the tray over. "A little gift from Bob." [647] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 09:19 PM

[651] 
Nalion looked worried on hearing this.
"I see. I have scolded you once already for such a thing. I do not know though if you are to blame in this instance. The enemy was so close... I do not know. Keep up having your healing potions with you, and perhaps think of a shield spell protecting you. However, this does not mean you can run into any danger. Be careful, and most of all, don't be reckless.", Nalion said after thinking on the matter.
"Despite your dispute... Slyvos loves you and your child. This is why he is so worried about you. Be careful, have him around, be in the background and heal people, not fight the enemy. And if at all, avoid fights completely. You should try to settle down these last months, and I am serious about it. Care about Ald Raathim, this is work enough. Let us others do the dangerous things. Keeping Ald Raathim safe for us is an invaluable service. You knew what sacrifices you would make when you decided to bear a child. It is time that you become aware of them again." [652] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 09:24 PM

[656] 

Loranna doesn't look particularly mollified. "Er, Nalion, he's already stated those sentiments and I said something stupid to him, and now he's running around somewhere in Firsthold, Nine knows where," she mutters, figiting.

"I know, I know, I shouldn't be getting involved, but the damn world keeps throwing things at us and I couldn't stand by when the girl looked like she needed help ..." Her hackles were starting to rise again, and Loranna makes a visible effort to calm herself down.

"Great; now I'm yelling at you ..." she sighs.[657] 

Posted by: Tricrux Jan 23 2006, 09:33 PM

Imprisoned for a few weeks, the young Lady Diamond of Moonguard was disheveled, emaciated, weak, and desparing that she would ever be found.

She didn't know where she was, nor what she was wanted for. She had speculated, disbelievingly, that her own parents might be behind this, but she was sure that she had never been taken all the way to High Rock - and besides, what use would her parents have for keeping her locked up in a cell, a meal every two days, with no indication of purpose?

Diamond thought she might be going insane. Her vision was blurred, and her dreams carried over into waking delirium. Shapes seemed to dance across the gray walls of her empty cell, and she didn't remember where the door was anymore...

Then that door opened. [658] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 09:39 PM

[662] 
"What have you said? He ran away?", Nalion asks, muttering a curse under his breath. "The damn world needs to see your child healthy and safe. Let us deal with the world for a while. However, I am tending to think that you were not completely wrong in helping Rinalla. Calm down now, Loranna. What we need now is a clear head."
[663] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 09:43 PM

[667] 

"I asked him how he'd have felt if it'd been his girl in danger and someone stood by why she might have been killed," Loranna says, gritting her teeth. "Which is, of course, the one thing you never ever say to Slyvos; you've touched the Tome dear, you and I both know what drove him to despair before."

" ... I think you're our clear head right now; help me find him, please?" Loranna entreats, her expression going from upset to worried.[668] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 09:44 PM

[672] 
Nalion nodded, knowing very well.
"Let's look for him. Luckily, there shouldn't be too many Khajiit around in Firsthold. Let's go." [673] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 09:46 PM

[677] 
Two breton men entered the room, as the door opened.

One, slightly taller than the other, held a long black whip in his left hand.

The shorter one walked over to Diamond.

"So, what can you tell us about Ald Raathim," he asked, his voice laced with a charm spell, "anything useful?" [678] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 09:56 PM

Reeds finished his meal. Hearing the rumors running around in the tavern, and knowing who might be brought up next, he decided to go out onto the streets for a bit of fresh air. [679] 

Posted by: Tricrux Jan 23 2006, 09:56 PM

[683] 
"No," she croaked, "and why do you want to know?" [684] 

Posted by: Stargazey Jan 23 2006, 09:58 PM

[688] 
"I'm asking the questions here," The older breton said. "I'll be back. Tor -- 20 minutes." He said, before walking out, shutting the door with a slam. [689] 

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 23 2006, 09:58 PM

Noting that his compatriots were leaving the tavern, Erenius followed suit, but headed off on his own towards the armoury, maybe some armour made by the ALtmer would be reasonably priced, and he'd have a new armour suit to wear when he returned to Ald Raathim besides this ceremonial cuirass, and his shiny suit of standard issue Imperial armour which he wore on all other occasions. [690] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 09:59 PM

The Nymph and Noggin, Kethiah's Room[691] 

[694] 

Kethiah tasted the soup, and smiled. "Tell him thank you from me. It's delicious."

"Isidor," she said more seriously. "You are one of the few people who know that I'm involved in things other than collecting excise and negotiating trade with the merchants ... I have a network of spies, and we can't let their intelligence gathering lie fallow just because I am. I need to find someone to take over those duties, as well as all the ones you're doing in the inn ... I just wish I knew who to ask." [695] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 10:05 PM

[699] 

And indeed, nalion was right about there not being many Khajiit in Firsthold.

Slyvos was wandering the streets, occasionally giving a look that implied death at random passerbys that were whispering gossip and rude remarks. And of course, it was enough to stop them long enough for him to pass by, before they started to complain amongst themselves of the rudeness of outlanders.

The khajiit could say the same about Altmer, given the chance. why do I always get so aggravated at the smallest things after an arguement... oh, right, because I was angry... but it's best I let her cool down, before I try to apologize. What am I saying? gah... I don't know anymore.

He would look rather confused and aggitated when someone found him eventually... [700] 

Posted by: Tricrux Jan 23 2006, 10:07 PM

[704] 
The younger Breton, with the whip, strode towards Diamond menacingly, punching her in the gut. As she doubled over, struggling to breathe, she felt her midsection seized by his rough hands; she was flipped over like a feather and slammed into the back of her chair, tied town, and whipped mercilessly. [705] 

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

A Street In Firsthold[706] 

[709] 

It was a quiet residential street, filled with palaces of the rich. They were silver, so the light reflected back to be defused in the silken white tapestries that hung across the avenue.

White carriages bumped down the street, picking up and dropping off passengers. Reeds recognized one figure who stepped out of her carriage, and began the walk up to her front door. It was Glacia.
[710] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 10:11 PM

[714] 
Reeds snapped out of his reverie when he noticed the Altmer. He strode nearer, making sure nobody else would appear from the carriage, then said to her, "So our paths do cross again..." [715] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 10:13 PM

[719] 

Tracking Slyvos did not prove too hard; Loranna and Nalion found him after but an hour of searching.

Loranna says "Slyvos," and steps forward toward her husband, unsure if he's still angry or not.[720] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 10:14 PM

[724] 

Somewhere Nearby ...

The trail had led Dilave to Moonguard, but there, it apparently stopped cold; Diamond's parents, or rather Diamond's parent's screen of servants, would not let a simple guard from some far-off backwater provience bother their master and mistress, and too late, Dilave learned that Ald Raathim was attacked - the Duchess wouldn't be able to send her any more help, not now.

Investigating Moonguard had brought her to the attention of the local vampires, much as she had hoped - only to find out, after a harrowing encounter and a draining interogation session, that Diamond apparently never got brought back to High Rock. The trail led back to Morrowind ... [725] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 10:17 PM

[729] 

Glacia turned to him, surprised at first, and then embarrassed.

"Reeds," she said, looking down. "I was just thinking about you, and whether to visit you at the tavern ... I hadn't quite made up my mind ... Auriel, what you must think of me. After all that talk about how wrong the Altmer system of arranged marriages are, and I didn't tell you that I had one ..."
[730] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 10:20 PM

[734] 
"You shouldn't worry about what I think of you," Reeds replied, moving to the foot of the stairs, "There are very few ways you could sunder that." Reeds looked down for a moment, thinking. He finally continued, "Do you love him?" [735] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 10:21 PM

[739] 
"Loranna told me, Slyvos.", Nalion began. "You both must find a way to cope with the situation at hand. Loranna has to hold herself back from jumping headfirst in any danger. You have to watch over her. And this means you have to step out of the background and act as her husband. She needs you now more than ever before." [740] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 10:35 PM

Slyvos turned to face Loranna and Nalion, his eyes looking like he's half asleep. "I know you're right, Nalion." He glanced at Loranna, his shoulders slumping a bit. "still... I.."

He was still a bit upset about the careless reference to that one particular subject, that always seemed to be able to set him off if you put it in the wrong context... which had just happened earlier. [741] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 10:36 PM

A Street in Firsthold[742] 

[745] 

"Of course not," Glacia said. "I don't even know him. I've probably spent more time in conversation with you than with him. The truth that I didn't want you to know is that I'm a coward. I've never left Summerset, and I've always had whatever I wanted ... And the Count will provide all that for me ... I don't want to marry him, but I'm afraid of my future if I don't ..."

She started for the house again. "I'll always remember our dances, Reeds. Thank you for that."[746] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 10:40 PM

[750] 

"Me too, love," Loranna says, sighing.

"I spoke carelssly, and I'm sorry," she continues, after a short pause. " ... But my sentiment still stands. Seeing her frightened and helpless, I couldn't not help ..."

She walks closer to Slyvos, holding out her hands. "I'm crazy, I know it," she admits. "I'll probably always be crazy; I couldn't look at her and stand idly by ... and when the worm snapped my neck, all I could think for a single horrifying instant was that I just killed my own baby ..."

Loranna's eyes were tearing up again; she blinks her tears away as she looks at Slyvos.[751] 

Posted by: Nalion Jan 23 2006, 10:43 PM

[755] 
Nalion smiled and blinked away a tear of his own. The mage took a few steps backwards, this was a moment that belonged to Loranna and Slyvos. A passersby looked strangely at the couple, but quickened his steps when he felt Nalion's stare on him. [756] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 10:49 PM

[760] 
"A memory?" Reeds asked her, reaching out for her arm, "Is that enough to content you? If you don't love the man then don't marry him! There's so much world out there..." Reeds stopped for a moment, "I thought you of all people would understand that. You say you're a coward, I don't believe that. No coward would have danced with an outlander like you did, and certainly not have had the kind of conversations that we did. You're far braver than you think Glacia. And the count will provide...? Can he provide happiness? Freedom? Love? And you talk of the future. Think of your future then. A future of you, married to someone you have no love for, kept only for children and to be paraded around like a Horse at auction. Is that the kind of future you want for yourself? I can't see you like that Glacia. You deserve to make your own destiny, choose your own path, not follow along with some silly custom."

"Was I wrong Glacia? Are you just like all the other nobles in Summerset?" [761] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 23 2006, 10:53 PM

A Street in Firsthold[762] 

[765] 

Glacia listened to him, meeting his eyes.

The door opened to the mansion, and an imperious looking couple -- obviously Glacia's parents -- were standing there. Glacia looked in their direction, and then to Reeds. And then she kissed him.

"I hope you're not wrong about me," Glacia smiled.

She walked past her shocked parents, who slammed the door shut behind them.

(OOC - Outta here for a few hours, maybe the night)

[766] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 10:54 PM

Slyvos smiled a bit, taking Loranna's hands in his own and holding them to his face to kiss them. "I understand... I understand you completely, love. You may be a bit crazy, but hey, look at me and compare it, and you'll find you aren't so bad... trust me on that one."

He wasn't really putting himself down, he was stating a fact; being in existance as long as this khajiit has, is bound to cause problems. [767] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 10:56 PM

[771] 

Loranna smiles, but asks " ... So what do we do about it?"[772] 

Posted by: stargate525 Jan 23 2006, 11:00 PM

[776] 
Reeds was in much higher spirits now. He almost hovered back to the Tavern, left contact information with the Innkeeper should Glacia inquire, then headed upstairs to bed.


OOC: I'm Outta 'ere... [777] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 11:15 PM

[781] 

"I'm not entirely sure... but I suggest staying out of battle, for one thing... and preferably getting more rest. Like I had tried to say, you are going to need it..." He was considerably more calm then before, which was good.

Of course, now he just had to keep his wife out of trouble from now on, and this is no small task considering she's a magnet for the stuff. "I suggest we get everything ready, and go home. We're needed there too you know." [782] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 11:19 PM

[786] 

Loranna sighs. "I'm going to need your help in that," she says, pulling Slyvos into an embrace.

Finally, she lets herself relax a bit, and she sniffs a little. " ... There's so many things we need to do, I don't even know if I can relax ..."[787] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 23 2006, 11:24 PM

[791] 

"... then I think it's time I stop being such a bookworm, and take being the husband of a Dutchess more seriously..." He sighed, pulling Loranna alittle closer.

If you understood what he meant, you'd be alittle surprised... he knows he is. [792] 

Posted by: Loranna Jan 23 2006, 11:26 PM

[796] 

Loranna, inexplicably, begins laughing.

She hugs Slyvos tightly though, and says "Let's go back to the tavern; I want to rest from the world a bit."[797] 

Posted by: Shardie Jan 23 2006, 11:50 PM

Daggerfall, the Biennie Residence

The letter was on the table, the wax seal open, and crying could be heard from the next room. The two people in the dining room, one a young girl in black leather armour, the other, an Altmer in crimson robes
'So what are they going to do with it? Im sure she would want to collect the body' the girl asked
'Im not sure if the mistress has time to do it, let alone the funeral...' the Altmer said, his robes blowing as if there was a wind inside the house
'It would be too troublesome to collect the body, with the seas the way they are'
'I say, we see what the queen has to offer in funeral expences'
'I'll go,' a third voice chimed in, 'A Paladin must always live up to his duty'
Landon left the room, leaving Arisa and Elvere to stand by the door in which Lyssia had locked herself [798] 

Posted by: S'reddit Yesterday, 03:51 AM

The Nymph and Noggin, Kethiah's Room[799] 

[802] 

Before Isidor can reply, there is a gentle knock on the door.

"Begging your pardon, but there's more people asking to see Mistress Kethiah," the barmaid said, smiling a little. "This time it's two mighty funny Khajiit. What should I tell 'em?"[803] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 07:40 AM

[807] 
"'Two might funny khajiit'?" Isidor asked, "Send them in, I guess." He said, his eyebrows still raised a little bit.[808] 

Posted by: One87xe Yesterday, 11:02 AM

*..."The Ladys Kiss Tavern", Firsthold...after being disappointed at the Cotillion, Osa follows a small group into the Tavern, that seems to be filling with Party guests...after acquiring a good meal and plenty to drink, removes the Quill, Ink, and small book of paper from her newly purchased leather bag...she sips her drink once more then begins to write...*

"Firsthold,

I've heard plenty of legends and stories before, but nothing like a Breton told me very recently. I had just inquired as to why the Ball had been cancelled, and the Breton, perhaps genuinely helpful or just plain drunk, begun to explain events as he had heard them. Namely about the Moons "fading to black". I delved deeper to learn more, but unfortunately he knew not what caused it. After explaining a little more about what brought him here, his wife interrupted and he had to excuse himself. A side note: it must be my lucky day as the Bretons wife was absolutely stricken with my dress and offered me quite the handsome sum to be the "envy of every Noble Woman in Daggerfall"...needless to say, I gladly excepted her generous offer. After purchasing, then changing a new set of clothes I returned to the Tavern in hopes of learning more. Whispers were now heard about a "strange red symbol in the sky" and "the Hellfire in Dagon's Eyes". Confused I went on to inquire further, but unfortunately I've run out of page...I'll pick this up again after lunch..."
[809] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 03:10 PM

Kethiah's Room, The Nymph and Noggin[810] 

[813] 

The two mighty funny Khajiit entered the room, bowing. They were both dressed in their best dandy style, complimenting one another (one wore a checkered cloak with crimson lining, and the other wore a crimson cloak with a checkered lining). A silver-furred Ohmes-Raht and a brown-woad-painted Ohmes, clearly related by their features and physiques.

"We heard you was expecting, Kethiah, so we thought you was expecting us," the silver-furred one said, kissing her hand. He turned to Isidor. "Alas."

"Alack," said the painted other. "Have we met, serjo?"

"What are you doing here? Is Ya'Tirrje around?" Kethiah asked.

"We has parted company with our former employer; indeed, we has parted company with all employment," Alack beamed. "We is gentlemen of leisure now, looking for a place to retire, and Ald Raathim is rumored to be very affordable right now." [814] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Yesterday, 03:35 PM

He hadn't been paying very close attention but Dar'Tess ir could have sworn he just saw the two odd Khajiit that had bought him from the slavers. What were their names' again? Woe and Worry? Oh, right. Alas and Alack. [815] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 04:33 PM

[819] 
"Nice to meet you," Isidor said, extendeing a hand to the khajiits. "Isidor. So, you're going to come to Ald Raathim? A nice enough place to retire, except for the whole war thing going on now ..." [820] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 04:45 PM

Kethiah's Room, The Nymph and Noggin[821] 

[824] 

"And half the town being rubble," Alas nodded. "But me old mum used to say 'If you want to make your gold go further, pet, buy in an area with smoking ruins.'"

"That were actually me mum, not yours; your mum couldn't even talk," Alack corrected him. "Besides, we've met your Duchess, and she were a lot more friendly than a lot of rulers to people like we."

"Lotta rulers think since we do illegal work, we're criminals or something," Alas added sadly. [825] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 04:57 PM

[829] 
Isidor couldn't but laughing at some of the twin's words.
"Well," Isidor said, contemplating, "Loranna doesn't take too kindly too stealing, but otherwise ... Welcome to Ald Raathim." He said, with a smile. [830] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:04 PM

Kethiah's Room, The Nymph and Noggin[831] 

[834] 

"Don't worry, we ain't going to be stealin'," Alas shook his head, grinning. "Stealin's hard work, and we aim to do as little work as we can."

"Well, except ..." Alack frowned. "The House of Dibella? That didn't get blowed up in the invasion, did that?"

"Baan Dar, we couldn't live nowhere without a House of Dibella," Alas hastily agreed.

"No, it wasn't damaged at all," Kethiah smiled. "Open for, um, business."

"Capital," Alas laughed. "So, we're gonna leave ya now, let you rest, while we pays our respects on the Duchess and Dibella." [835] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 05:13 PM

[839] 
"Haha, hope to see you around." Isidor said, still laughing as the khajiits left.

Turning back to Kethiah, he said, "Well, I'll let you get some rest now. I'll be back up later, though." [840] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:18 PM

[844] 

Kethiah thought a moment, and then said, "Wait, darling, stop. You know, those two wouldn't be bad Spymasters. They know a lot about the criminal underworld, but they're interested in retiring, so they're not necessarily crooked anymore ... I guess we should talk to Loranna about it first when she comes back, but it ... might just work."[845] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 05:23 PM

[849] 
"Sounds good to me," Isidor said, furrowing his brow. "So, you won't be going back to the spymaster job after the baby is born, then?" [850] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:31 PM

[854] 

"I suppose that depends," Kethiah said thoughtfully, touching her belly. "I'm sure this one will keep me busy, but ... I guess we'll see, depending on how well they, or whoever else takes the job does, and whether I'm bored or not ..." She winked.

"Why don't you go after them and see if they'd be interested in the position? They're on their way to the castle, and we forgot to tell them that Loranna's away."
[855] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:46 PM

The Lady's Kiss, Firsthold[856] 

[859] 

The next morning, there was a light tapping on the door.

"Your Grace," the innkeeper said. "A courier has arrived from the palace. His Majesty King Reman would like to see you at the earliest convenience."
[860] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 05:47 PM

[864] 
Isidor smiled. "Be back later, then."

Walking out of the Nymph and Noggin, he spotted the two brothers walking up to the castle. Quickening his pace a little bit, he said, "So, how would the two of you like to be Ald Raathim's spymasters?" [865] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 05:49 PM

[869] 

Loranna blinks, and calls out "Thank you; we'll be at the palace as soon as we're dressed and freshened up ..."

The courier can hear her mutter to Slyvos "Crap; my good dress is still muddy from last night ..."[870] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:50 PM

[874] 

Alas and Alack slowed down, and looked at one another.

"What kind of work would that entail?" asked Alack.

"We're not fond of ... work," Alas frowned. [875] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 05:54 PM

The Royal Palace, Firsthold[876] 

[879] 

The lower salons at the Royal Palace, where the ill-fated Cotillion Ball had been the night before, were similarly ill-dressed. Workers were tearing apart the islands, and while Loranna and her entourage waited for the King, they could watch Nirn crumble around them.[880] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Yesterday, 05:56 PM

[884] 

Slyvos rolls his eyes, making a mental note to himself to get that taken care of. "well, this is what quick weak fire magic and a block of ice are for..."

If anyone could figure out what he was talking about, they'd agree. Of course, most people won't, and will be perpetually confused for the rest of their lives because of it. [885] 

Posted by: stargate525 Yesterday, 05:58 PM

[889] 
"Palace? What? Who?" Reeds rolled around and fell out of bed, darned sensitive ears of his... He was dressed (in white) and was waiting downstairs within fifteen minutes.


Lokking as they tore down the model of Nirn from the previous night, he was once again reminded of the Altmer's tendency for extravagance and waste... [890] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:00 PM

[894] 
"It would basically entail," Isidor said, "getting information from the network of spies Kethiah has set up, and passing it on to the duchess or Kethiah. Kethiah said that you had a nubmber of contacts, and she'll be out of commission for a while, because of the baby, and she thought you'd make good replacements. Not too much work, and if you use Kethiah's system of using merchants as informants, you get to hang around the Nymph and Noggin all day ..." [895] 

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 06:01 PM

[899] 

As Shaka waited, he hoped silently that the rumors weren't true; that Reman and Morgiah wouldn't divorce. What good would it do, he wondered. Mannimarco won't change his mind from that. Wouldn't it merely compound the tragedy of their son Goranthir?

[900] 

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 06:02 PM

(pie)[901] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 06:06 PM

Erenius stands with the others, looking about as those about slowly and carefully removed the section of the floor that was south-eastern Tamriel. Erenius wore a fresh set of clothing, yet in the same pattern as the previous night, having taken a liking to its fit and appearance.

He stands silently, watching in sadness as Tamriel continued to be cast asunder by the workers. Ironic, he thought, that a world so difficult to piece together could be so easily broken apart into its base components.

'As it truley is it might seem,' Erenius thinks, turning his gaze to the others. [902] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 06:07 PM

[906] 

"We do likes to hang around taverns," Alas admitted, looking to Alack.

"And we do likes to gossip, which is what it sound like this be," Alack admitted, looking to Alas.

"This is a great honor," Alas said to Isidor. "Unless you're just runnin' down the street, askin' everyone if they wants to be Spymaster, in which case, it ain't such a great honor. We will think about it."
[907] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:09 PM

[911] 
Isidor laughed.

"I'm just doing what my wife tells me," He said. "Let Kethiah or the duchess know when you make up your mind." [912] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 06:10 PM

[916] 

"Argh! MEN!" Loranna grouses, hastily waving Slyvos back. "This is a good dress, not an old tablecloth! I'll just wear the plain robe and ... crap, my good shoes are all muddy; well, I'll wear the robe and the white leather sandals ..."

She gets ready in relative silence after that, still shaking her head. "Thankfully the servants do the laundry ..." She does kiss Slyvos though as they're on their way out the door. "[917] 

[920] 

Loranna frowns ever so slightly as she watches parts of Skyrim get ripped up, but composes herself to meet the King. There were several things she hoped to address; the question was how to phrase them diplomatically ...[921] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 06:11 PM

[925] 

"Well, we're off to meet to meet with Her Duchiness now," Alack said. "And then Dibella."
[926] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:15 PM

[930] 
"Oh," Isidor said, "I was supposed to tell you that. The duchess is not here now, off on a mission in Firsthold." [931] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 06:17 PM

The Royal Palace, Firsthold[932] 

[935] 

A footman escorts the group to a private room to meet with the King. It is different from the one they used to meet with Morgiah. Very Altmeri in design, all silk, mirrors, and crystal.

Reman looked tired, as if he had little sleep the night before, but bade them all to be seated.

"I wanted to thank you," the King said seriously. "From my deepest heart for rescuing my daughter last night."
[936] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 06:21 PM

[940] 

"Ah," said Alas. "We was going to visit her then the House of Dibella. Business then pleasure."

"We could go in reverse, though," Alack suggested. "Pleasure then business. Not that meetin' with her Dutchhood weren't be a pleasure."

"No," Alas agreed, and then looked at Isidor with a smile. "You busy at the tavern now, Isidor? Feel like a nice ... bit of religion?"
[941] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 06:24 PM

[945] 

Loranna curtesies to the King as they enter, internally frowning; the poor mer's fatigue clearly showed, and given the rumors they heard, Loranna could only imagine what the King had gone through after the battle.

She almost says something formal, but decides against it. "Your welcome, Your Majesty; I am happy we were able to be of help," she says, smiling to the weary King. "... Is the Princess doing all right, Your Majesty?" she asks.[946] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 06:33 PM

[950] 

"No, she is not," Reman shook his head sadly. "But she will heal, though I imagine some wounds will stay fresh forever. My daughter and Hlaalu Morgiah left last night for Mournhold with Queen Barenziah, but they asked me to thank you as well for your kindness ... and your sacrifice. Though, I imagine our gratitude scarcely makes up for the loss of your friend Maranda Biennie."
[951] 

Posted by: dentris Yesterday, 06:51 PM

[955] 

Even he wasn't allowed to speak, P'Rassha couldn't help. Seeing a man's sadness is quite difficult for the huge bipedal jaguar. Trying to be as small as possible, he said:

"P'Rassha once lost a good friend. A wonderful friend in fact. A lady named Violetta. Although the context is different, this story may sound familiar. Violetta and her husband, a tall, good-looking and courageous Nord were tricked by what used to be a friend into Oblivion. How that was possible, P'Rassha doesn't know, but Violetta's soul was heavily damaged in the process, while her husband's was completly destroyed. Now, P'Rassha weilds Violetta close to the heart, to remember what used to be. P'Rassha even regrets what happened and wishes he could go back and change the past, but Akatosh isn't broken that easily. P'Rassha learned one thing though. Never look behind, for what happened can only mean one thing: the past can be brighter because of it. The Reguards raged a terrible war against the Empire, only to become powerful allies afterward, Dagoth Ur made Morrowind trembled only to give the opportunity for a hero to born, the Emperor himself was banished into Oblivion to unveil a traitor and bring justice to the world.

Bad things can always become wonderful events in time. The mortal's eye simply cannot witness it at first. It doesn't mean P'Rassha will sit and wait, though. P'Rassha knows a strong will and a sharp axe is also needed for such sacrifice to mean something." [956] 

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Yesterday, 06:54 PM

Slyvos just stood by silently, just listening to the discussion, seeing as he was not exactly suited to this situation. He prefered his magic to words. Still, at what was said about Maranda, Slyvos got alittle gloomy, seeing as even though that woman had been an enemy at some point, and he hardly knew her, she did give her life up... a shame.

and again, I feel useless in these situations... which is something I need to work on later... He thought to himself matter of factly. [957] 

Posted by: stargate525 Yesterday, 06:54 PM

[961] 
Reeds looked over to Loranna. So my hunch was correct... Reeds thought to himself. If Loranna was anything, she wasn't afraid to act. [962] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:01 PM

Loranna looks over to P'Rassha, her eyes going to his amulet; she had always wondered about P'Rassha's connection with his amulet ...

She smiles. "P'Rassha, you would bear the world's weight on your shoulders to help a friend; thank you dear," she says, turning back to face the King.

" ... Heartfelt gratitude is a wonderous gift in of itself, Your Majesty, and like P'Rassha points out, even in tragedy may good sometimes be found," she says. "We'll miss Maranda, but her sacrifice will always live on in our hearts - she helped protect something beautiful and good in this world, a promise that now can be."

She pauses a bit, and continues, a bit more hesitantly "Speaking of promises, Your Majesty, there were some made before the horror that struck last night ..."[963] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:02 PM

[967] 

The King took this in and nodded. "I understand that with my head, but you will understand me if my heart doesn't see the goodness yet."[968] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:05 PM

[972] 

Reman nodded. "Yes, Hlaalu Morgiah sent an armada to help assist the Civil War in Morrowind. I approved it, though she may have suggested that it was all her doing. We will have to discuss down the line whether we will make the situation permanent and have them build a garrison or two in Morrowind, or if they are to be sent home when the situation betters itself."
[973] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 07:10 PM

Erenius blinks twice, suprised at the suggestion of a permenant garrison in Morrowind led by the forces of Firsthold.

He looks at the others, his disapproval noticable to all. But, knowing that he didnt grasp the entire situation, he said nothing, his only displeasure showing through his expression which he made clear to those who took notice. [974] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:13 PM

[978] 

"Sir?" the King turned to Erenius with a weary eye, which was nevertheless practiced in reading the expressions of all he met with. "You seem like you have something to say?"[979] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 07:16 PM

[983] 
"I'm afraid not, lads." Isidor said, with a wry laugh. "Pregnant wife, tavern to run ... Enjoy yourselves, though." He added with a smile. [984] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:16 PM

[988] 

"Of course, Your Majesty," Loranna says, catching Erenius's look - and if she saw it, it was likely that the King did as well.

Ah well; it was ultimately up to Helseth to decide if he wanted the Altmer forces to stay in Morrowind once the war was over. Assuming that Helseth came out victorious in the end, of course. Well, Queen Morgiah ... Hlaalu Morgiah ... might have something to say about it as well; Loranna still wasn't sure how Barenziah's daughter would fit into Morrowind's dynamic, but it promised to be interesting in any case.

"Is there anything else Your Majesty wishes to discuss?" Loranna asks respectfully. "Has word from Maranda's family been recieved yet?"[989] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 07:19 PM

[993] 

"Only if I can speak freely, Your Majesty," Erenius says, glancing also towards Loranna for approval before continuing. [994] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:20 PM

Ald Raathim[995] 

[998] 

"Duty calls," Alas grinned. "But don't forget your own spiritual needs, Isidor."

Alack slapped Alas on the back of the head, and added. "We'll think about the offer, Isidor. And in the meantime, if you hears about someone selling a wee palace."

"A big wee palace," Alas corrected his brother.

"We're in the market," Alack said, and the brothers waved as they walked off, back towards the village and the House of Dibella.


[999] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:22 PM

[1003] 

"Yes, they're sending a representative here," the King said. "They were apparently agreeable to having her buried in the tower with the other heroes of Firsthold."[1004] 

[1007] 

Reman smiled ever so slightly. "I thought we were, sir."
[1008] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:23 PM

Loranna realizes that she has a pie in the oven.

Yeah; that's meant both ways[1009]  [1010]  [1011] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:23 PM

[1015] 

Loranna gets a somewhat pained expression.

"My companions are all good people; many of them, Erenius included, I owe my life to," she says. "I do not try to censure their own, heartfelt opinions; if His Majesty wishes to hear your thoughts dear, then speak."

She does give Erenius a look that silently adds But try to be respectful, her brow furrowing slightly.[1016] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 07:27 PM

"Simply put, Your Majesty, I dont like the idea of any foreign force in Morrowind, Altmer, Imperial, even, in all honestly, Helseth..." Erenius says. "But I understand certain things must be done, especially considerring our situation here. All I wish to know is, just how long would the forces stay, and under whose command would they fall, Ald Raathim, Mournhold, or yours? Based on your words, and your choice of 'permanent' implies that you intend on staying far beyond the forseeable future. Just how long would that be?" [1017] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:34 PM

[1021] 

"I'm afraid I don't have an answer to any of your concerns," Reman frowned. "I was asked to give aid, and I gave it freely. I said that down the line, there would be a discussion about how long my troops would be needed and what arrangements would be made then. They will remain my troops, however, if that answers your question. I am not dismantling my navy for this project. If you know how long this war will last, I would like to know as well, so I can plan accordingly how this aid is to be given."

[1022] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:39 PM

[1026] 

"Part of the whole idea of the Empire is that we're more than just the sum of our parts; we're not simply a bunch of nations all answering to a escendant of Tiber Septim ..." Loranna mutters darkly.

Changing the subject, Loranna says to Reman "I can think of no greater way to honor Maranda's sacrifice than to have her lay with the other great heroes of Firsthold, Your Majesty; I would like to attend that service, as her friend and a fellow Dibellan, if that is permissable?"

The look in Loranna's eyes suggests she's re-thinking her policy of letting her friends speak freely ...[1027] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 07:40 PM

[1031] 

"Very well then," Erenius says, taking a quick shallow bow before taking a step backwards.

'But thats not to mean he wont be using Morgiah's force, assuming she chooses to not leave the province...' Erenius thinks. [1032] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:48 PM

[1036] 

"I confess that never before have a group of petitioners come to me, had their request granted, and then complained that I had done so," Reman glared. "It's a novel and not altogether pleasant experience."[1037] 

[1040] 

Reman turned from Erenius to Loranna, his angry expression melting considerably. "Of course. I do not know when the service will be held, or even if it's certain it will be held here, but I will make certain that you are kept informed. The family will doubtlessly be happy to have you." [1041] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 07:50 PM

Landon was waiting in the antichamber, the footman had been sent to inform the king of his arrival. He was dressed in white mythril armour, he did not understand the traditions of the Altmer, but he followed them like any skillful paladin would do. Diplomacy was one of the key pillars of Landons self proclaimed temple of Paladinness [1042] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:56 PM

[1046] 

That does it; from now on, I go on diplomatic missions alone, Loranna thinks dourly, shooting Erenius a look that quite clearly states Drop. The Subject. NOW. And Aplogize.[1047] 

[1050] 

Loranna tries to remember what Maranda's family actually thought of her; technically, her sister and her brother-in-law should be grateful for her help in foiling Selvia's little scheme, but the Biennies were an interesting lot.

"Thank you, Your Majesty; I am most grateful for your consideration and genrosity," Loranna says, smiling. [1051] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 07:57 PM

[1055] 

"Lord Landon of Daggerfall to see you, Your Majesty," said the footman, bowing and entering the room.

"Tell him I'll be with him in a few minutes," said the King. "I think we're almost done here."[1056] 

[1059] 

"And as I said at the start, I will be forever in your debt for saving my daughter," Reman also smiled.[1060] 

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 08:03 PM

[1064] 
As Isidor walked back to the Nymph and Noggin, he smiled.

As Isidor walked into the Nymph, Ingmar walked out. The brothers waved to each other. Ingmar had taken the day off, after working straight for the past few weeks.

Ingmar, as well, was heading over towards town, hoping to just get a little time to relax. [1065] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:04 PM

[1069] 

Loranna rises, and curtesies again. "You flatter us, Your Majesty; thank you foryour time and your aid," she says. "You and your family are always welcome in Ald Raathim."

She turns to her companions. "The King is a busy mer, and we likewise have many things to do," she says, shooting Erenius a look that said she wanted to speak with him soon. "Let us depart."[1070] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:06 PM

[1074] 

King Reman of Firsthold bowed to the group, and then turned to his footman. "Show Lord Landon in."
[1075] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 08:08 PM

[1079] 

Lord Landon entered the room. However he did not gaze at the wonderful decorations, but walked slowly to where the king sat, and bowed lowly on one knee, 'It is truly an honour for you to see me, your highness, an honour above all else' he remained with his head bowed and on one knee [1080] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:15 PM

[1084] 

"The honor is mine, milord," Reman replied with a bow. "Please rise. I must offer my condolences on your loss, and thank you, for Maranda Biennie died defending my daugher."
[1085] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 08:18 PM

Erenius turns to leave. The Imperial closes his eyes, trying to still himself as he leaves the palace, just then starting to realize the gravity of his words and how they could have brought down close to three days of talks and niceties. As he exits the palace, he pauses a moment to think.

For the moment all Erenius could do is calm his frustration, both mainly at himself for his lack of tact and care in his words, but also at King Reman for the way he avoided the question. [1086] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 08:20 PM

[1090] 

Landon rose, 'Oh your highness, I am so glad that your daughter managed to live. Unfortunatly this is the first I have heard of it, the message we recieved said nothing about how she died and under what conditions. I am honoured to call her my step-sister' his face did not betray emotion, as a palidin, he had learnt that there was a time for sadness, and a time for stoic calmness [1091] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:28 PM

[1095] 

Loranna is silent as she heads back with the group to the tavern; she's silent when she beckons Erenius to some into her room - and her voice is quiet when she asks Slyvos to "Just wait outside a moment, dear? This shouldn't take long."

When the two of them are alone, Loranna turns her irate gaze on Erenius, her expression anything but silent.

"The next time you try to pull a stunt like that, I'll hand you your lungs before you finish talking," she says to Erenius, her voice restrained but smouldering. "We don't outright accuse people of trying to muscle in on our country after we came to them begging for their aid to begin with, and we don't insult a mer who's just lost his nephew, his daughter, his wife, and his son all in the space of two days!"

"You have concerns about the ulterior motives of the people we're negotiating with? Fine; you bring them to me, in private, you discuss them with our companions if you have to - and those discussions stay among our companions only. I will bring any such matters to the King and Queen's attention, should the situation warrent it. And they will decide what needs to be done, since they're the ones who actually run Morrowind, not us. But you do not treat a member of the royalty with such blatent disrespect, no matter what you think of them; put your own head on the chopping block if you must but don't drag the rest of us down with you, or the people back at home depending on us."

"Do you understand me, Erenius?" Loranna asks.[1096] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:31 PM

[1100] 

"I never met her, but she is a hero of Firsthold for her actions," Reman replied. "Our tradition here for the honored dead is to bury them in the walls of the palace with a plaque giving honor to their name. I would like to do this for your step-sister, and invite your family to attend the memorial service. I would understand, however, if your family had other arrangements they wished to make in Daggerfall." [1101] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 08:36 PM

[1105] 


"I do understand, Loranna," Erenius says, trying to contain his own anger. "I wish now that I hadnt said that in there. Its just that, at the time it seemed that it needed to be said."

He pauses for a moment, to collect his thoughts.

"Loranna, I've followed you since you left High Rock all that time ago. You know I'd never intentionally bring harm to either you, Ald Raathim, or the others," Erenius said. "It was a foolish thing to say then. If you wish, I will no longer join you on these travels. Or, if you would rather, I shall say no more again before another monarch." [1106] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 08:37 PM

[1110] 

'I believe,' Landon started, 'That that would be a fine honour for my step sister, your highness, and we would be glad to accept it. However, we only want a low key burrial. Nothing fancy. My wife will pay all expences, obviously. My sister was banished from Daggerfall, and hence, it would not be right to take her back to the land which hated her so. Rather, I believe it would be an honour to be burried here, amongst the company of those she died to protect' as stoic as he was, Landon could not help a tear from escaping from his eye [1111] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:41 PM

[1115] 

"There will be no expenses, and the memorial service will be as simple as you'd like," the King concurred. "Her family will attend, I assume? And Maranda Biennie's companions from Ald Raathim also expressed an interest in attending if they could."
[1116] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:44 PM

[1120] 

"It's the unintentional harm I'm worried about, Erenius," Loranna says, her brow still furrowed. "You should know better; you're a bright man, you've been with us since almost the beginning, like you said. I shouldn't have to be having this conversation with you right now."

"You're one of us, Erenius - as Nalion and I have repeatedly told you. No matter what happened to you at the start of the Dawn, your destiny is ultimately yours to decide. But I can't have you jeapordizing any further diplomatic missions; they don't really play to your strengths anyway." [1121] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 08:46 PM

[1125] 

Landon thought back... they seemed to bring trouble where they went, those people did... and plus, thier trading company supplied weapons to the Redorians, proberly somthing that the people of Ald Raatham would not know, but they might... it was good business, and the Redorians paid in Ebony, much more than the Redguards and the Nords paid for thier little conflict over Dragonstar... 'I believe that her friends should be able to attend the funeral if they wish,' he said, his voice, for the first time, sounding guarded [1126] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:48 PM

[1130] 

"Then we have merely to decide on a date and write an epitaph to be put on the plaque," King Reman replied with a sad smile.
[1131] 

Posted by: FireMaster Yesterday, 08:50 PM

"I see," Erenius asks. "If this is the case, would you rather I take leave of the city now and return to Ald Raathim, or stay until you and the others take leave?"

"Things rarely play out as one would expect," Erenius says, mostly to himself. "But I suppose its what one does with the unexpected that shows one's true worth, and it seems I found mine this day."

Erenius then turns and starts to leave towards his room, wonderring just where he did fit in in this scheme of things. [1132] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 08:56 PM

[1136] 

'I shall leave the date to you, your highness, although my sister is too ill to travel for at least a few more days. I shall return to her and see what she wishes for the epitaph to say. I thank you for your good treatment of my sister during her stay, both in life, and in death,' He bowed to one knee once more [1137] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:57 PM

[1141] 

Loranna's eyes narrow slightly; Erenius was not looking to her like he really got the point.

"We're all heading back now; we've done what we came for," Loranna says. "Unless people want to stay in Firsthold for their own personal reasons. The King said he'd tell us when Maranda's service will be held.

She opened her mouth as if to say more, but changes her mind, and shakes her head. "Send Slyvos back in please," she says.[1142] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Yesterday, 08:59 PM

[1146] 

The King also bowed. "I shall look forward to hearing from you soon, Lord Landon."

(OOC -- Out for a few minutes) [1147] 

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 09:01 PM

[1151] 

And so, Landon left is brisk steps quickly took him to the mages guild where he returned to Daggerfall. There, he and his wife took to writing the epitaph... [1152] 

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 09:03 PM

It's time to ...

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna [1153] 

Posted by: Dreadlord7 Yesterday, 09:10 PM

[1157] 


I am yours to Command.... [1158] 

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