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

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 08:33 PM

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

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

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's 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. If you cannot get on the channel for some reason, or if the player whose 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.

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 http://www.tc.umn.edu/~rhod0091/lrp/temp.html. 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 post of Allerleirauh http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737&view=findpost&p=2871855, dealing with some of the above mentioned rules, as well as the hints on character generation done by Loranna http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=141737&view=findpost&p=3828224. 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!
===

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 somewhere outside of Ald Raathim right now, engaging in some noble business or other that her father didn't bother to ask about.

Gram Pyrel, on the other hand, is up in the Velothi mountains, exploring a Dwemer ruin .

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 5 2006, 08:35 PM

ooc: Isidor, male nord, is running his tavern.

Ingmar, Isidor's brother, is drinking in said tavern.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 08:37 PM

As we last left our heroic adventurers, they were in the 'Engine Room' of the Dwemer Ruins known as Angzerel, high in the Velothi Mountians. Now working out the puzzle of the wheels was daunting, and it seemed like it took an entire day, but in reality, it took nowhere near that long. Now that the puzzle is solved, a door is opened up on the far side of the room, shrieks can be heard from down this door, terrible, terrible shrieks. What are our adventurers to do? shall they go deeper into the ruins, or withdraw from the ruins completely? Find out... NOW!

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 5 2006, 08:37 PM

Reeds is in his bookstore, practicing restoration magic.

Valerius is in the woods west of Ald Raathim, having adventures and making discoveries that are far too interesting, exiting, and unbeleivable to write here. (read: I'm just too lazy to write them )

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 08:37 PM

Summary: Shaka, an Argonian battlemage, is helping survey a possible alternate supply route through the Velothi Mountains. He's currently examining dwemer machinery with the other adventurers.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 08:40 PM

Summary

Nalion
Nalion, a male Breton mage is in the Dwemer ruin of Angzerel, in a room which seems to hold strange Dwemeri generators.

Gistral
Gistral, a male Redguard warrior is still on a scout mission.

Dana
Dana, a female Redguard bard, is currently in Ald Raathim, heling in the reconstruction.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 08:40 PM

Summary for Erenius:

He's with the other volunteers at Angzeral. Prior to his joining of the expedition, he was with Valerius scouring the said areas west of Ald Raathim for additional caves or hiding places.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 08:50 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 08:37 PM)

Gram was in a bit of a bad mood, having felt that the puzzle of the wheels was some Dwemer joke on mannish races - who ever heard of a riddle that involved spinning wheels around for hours on end?

Thus, when he heard the shrieks, he reached for Frostkiss with a bit more eagerness than usual, and said "Could be monsters or people in need of saving; in either case, I'm going to take a look." He advances stalwartly to the door.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 08:54 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 12:50 PM)

What Gram sees is a long sloping corridor, with nothing. Shrieks arise from down the corridor, and the gears of steam centruians could be heard in the distance. Llana crept down the sloping part of the corridor to where it leveled up, a chamelion spell, and looked down the corridor further before returning
'There are a large number of Dwemer Specters down there, as well as a few Centurions. We should advance carefully and not provoke them as much...'

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 08:55 PM

Erenius too, having had no chance to take a bite from the spectres earlier, goes forth, his ebony blade out and ready to taste some Dwemer metal. When he sees nothing he seems ready to go forth to find the source, yet stays back with the others, heeding the Bosmer's words of caution.

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 08:58 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:54 PM)

"I'm not sure we can avoid a fight," said Shaka. "Maybe we should just take them on now and have done with it."

He held the Spear at the ready as he advanced with the rest.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 09:01 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 5 2006, 08:58 PM)

"I'm not sure we can avoid a fight," said Shaka. "Maybe we should just take them on now and have done with it."

He held the Spear at the ready as he advanced with the rest.

Gram privately agrees with Shaka, and is a bit spoiling for some excersice, but he remembers Nalion's magic hadn't worked earlier, and knows that Athaso is still young and mostly untested ...

"Let's try to avoid a fight for now, at least until we have slightly better ground on which to fight," he says with a note of reluctance, looking down at his Nordic mail and muttering "Hopefully thousands of years of being ghosts in these noisy ruins will have dulled their hearing."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 09:03 PM

Nalion slowly followed Gram, Shaka and Erenius, watching the back of the group as well as the front. He moved close to one wall, for more cover and he repeated a series of words in his mind. This time, he should better not fail an incantation.
Nontheless, he checked whether his dagger was where it should be and held a tight grip on his enchanted staff.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:04 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 01:01 PM)

Llana stayed a distance behind the advancing adventurers... her bow ready, her arrows in thier quiver...

The specters noticed the advancing adventurers and advanced immediatly, the centurians, on the other hand, were content to do nothing

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 09:06 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:04 PM)

"Blasted annoying pointed-eared ghosts!" Gram rumbles, raising Trueturner to keep any ghosts from getting past him. "Go join your missing friends in whatever forsaken lands they put themselves in!"

Frostkiss lashes out over Trueturner, the freezing axe blade hungry for ectoplasmic 'flesh'. The first specter that gets too close has his left arm sheared off clean from the shoulder and collapses, his body disolving into a lump as two more advance to pelt Gram with curses.

"Pah! Your magic is as weak as your addled brains!" Gram roars, bashing one ghost aside with his shield and cutting the second across the navel; the wounded ghost cries out as a creeping frost consumes it, leaving Gram free to plant Frostkiss into the skull of the third specter he was facing ...

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 09:10 PM

Shaka could feel a wave of cold, just from the approaching spectres. He hurled a fireball as an experiment, with his left hand, and waited to see how much effect it might have on the ghosts.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 09:11 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:04 PM)

Nalion held a spell back, but when he saw a slight opening in his fellow adventurer's ranks, he quickly incanted spell while pointing a finger at a spectre. A fiery glow began to form around his hand, then it sped towards the Wraith, searing through the air.

The impact on the ghost was hard, and it was engulfed in flames. Hollow shrieks filled the chamber as the Spectre writhed in the fire and began to dissolve.

"Yes!", Nalion shouted, grinning broadly, then he searched for another enemy.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:15 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 6 2006, 01:11 PM)

Llana sat at the back, her bow firing all sorts of arrows at the advancing specters, 'you realize, they have reflect on them?' she said as an arrow dispatched a specter. Four more were left...

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 09:18 PM

Erenius finds his own foe, amputating one of the spectre's arms in the process of parrying a bow. As the severed limb formed that ectoplamsic goo on the floor, and his blade, Erenius thrusts home to the abdomen, ripping up and across, severing his foe in two as the torso and left arm fell away in one mass of plasma and fog.

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 09:21 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 10:15 PM)

Llana sat at the back, her bow firing all sorts of arrows at the advancing specters, 'you realize, they have reflect on them?' she said as an arrow dispatched a specter. Four more were left...

They seem to have about the same amount of Reflect as my spear does, thought Shaka; Bitter Mercy was able to catch some of the Reflected spells before they could hit Shaka or others, and he watched them cancel each other out.

Shaka was close enough to begin wielding the Spear directly on the ghosts, whether as staff or spear. A few who had survived Nalion's and Shaka's fire spells were torn apart by the group's weapons, imbued as they were with magicka.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 09:21 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:15 PM)

Llana sat at the back, her bow firing all sorts of arrows at the advancing specters, 'you realize, they have reflect on them?' she said as an arrow dispatched a specter. Four more were left...

"I'll take my chances. And they should realize that I am born under the Atronarch.", Nalion winked as he quickly crossed the aisle. A Dwemer Wraith came very close now, waving his spectral arms, then striking at the mage.
Nalion was barely able to block the blow and had to take a few steps back.

The Wraith followed immediately, slashing at Nalion face. However, with this movement, he presented his unguarded back to Llana...

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 5 2006, 09:23 PM

Anya rushed foward, suprisingly fast even for a Bosmer, forgoing her marksman weapons for her silver shortsword and the Dagger of Judgement.

With only three ghosts left, Anya picked the closest one, her dagger raking it and activating it's enchantment. With the spectre enfeebled, she brought her sword up for a cleave, followed by another slash from her dagger.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:25 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 6 2006, 01:21 PM)

And without a seconds thought, a silver arrow pierced the specter and it fell to the ground, a pile of extoplasim

There was one left...

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 09:31 PM

Erenius wheels about and scans the corridor, one last spectre remaining it seems. Glancing to the others for but a moment to make sure noone else was trying to grab it, Erenius strikes home with the broad part of the blade, bludgeoning the spectre's neck, leaving it on the floor, leaking ectoplasm and loosing its connection to Mundus.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:35 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 01:31 PM)

Viewing down the corridor, it seemed the centurians had moved on, and so, our party continues down this long, forboding corridor... till they reach a T intersection. Looking down both ways, the left passageway veared to the right, the right passageway went straight ahead, into the darkness

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 09:39 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:35 PM)

Gram considers the party's choices for a moment. "Hmm ... I'm inclined to take the better-lit direction," he says, pointing his axe own the left passageway. "No sense in groping around in the dark just yet."

He turns down the left corridor, his eyes darting around warily.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:41 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 01:39 PM)

As the passageway vears to the right, the corridor seemingly widens, the roof rose, and soon, the corridor had become a huge room. allong the sides of each of the room were massive Dwemer armours, and at the end, a large armour stood there, looking over his domain...

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 09:49 PM

Erenius, upon enterring the room, suddenly wonders if it would have been better to go left instead of right. Whlie he was unable to see just what occupied the suits of armour, their mere presence, and the presence of that large one at the end of the room, makes him believe this is a security system of sorts. Should the outter levels be breached, these likely stand guard over the inner levels of great import to the Dwemer.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 09:49 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:41 PM)

Carefully stepped into the giant hall, but did not move deeper. The sight of the lined up mechanical men was fascinating and a bit frightening at the same. This scenery reminded him of something...

"This seems like...", Nalion began, scratching his head, "Like a chamber that was described in a book I once read. Kemel-Ze, the ruins of Kemel Ze. I have read a report on it."
Nalion tried hard to rmember, then startled.
"Ahem, I believe the excavator in 'Ruins of Kemel-Ze' was attacked in a chamber much like that..."

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 09:50 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 10:41 PM)

Shaka was amazed. "Careful, people," he said. "I've read of old accounts of Dwemer automatons that were larger than steam centurions, but never like these. . . . I wonder if they're sentient enough to talk to."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 09:51 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 5 2006, 09:49 PM)

"Yes, but he wasn't a hardy band of aventurers, now was he?" Gram asks, flashing a quick grin. "Do you remember anything else about that report?"

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 5 2006, 09:50 PM)

"Hmm ... Hello there!" Gram says to the largest Dwemer construct.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:52 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 6 2006, 01:49 PM)

'I've read that book too,' Llana said, 'and if that is the case; then I think we should return to the entrance room and see if the storm has passed...' she said worried

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 09:54 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 01:51 PM)

"Hmm ... Hello there!" Gram says to the largest Dwemer construct.

The Dwemer construct did not reply in words. Its eyes opened, and the construct picked up an axe, flailing it in the air, swingng the axe towards Gram

'Too late' said Llana, as she redied her bow

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 09:56 PM

"Might be a good idea," Erenius says, nodding in agreement, taking a look over the suits, starting to turn to head towards the portal leading to the hallway.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 09:57 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 09:54 PM)

The Dwemer construct did not reply in words. Its eyes opened, and the construct picked up an axe, flailing it in the air, swingng the axe towards Gram

'Too late' said Llana, as she redied her bow

"By Kyne!" Gram throws himself out of the path of the axe, scrambling to his feet.

"It looks sentient enough! Not to mention angry!" Gram yells to the others. "Watch yourselves!"

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 5 2006, 09:59 PM

Anya frowned, and reacted quickly. Raising her bow, she fired shock enchanted arrows, one after another, at the large construct. "Hell if he picks me up by the legs." she muttered.

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 09:59 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 10:54 PM)

The Dwemer construct did not reply in words. Its eyes opened, and the construct picked up an axe, flailing it in the air, swingng the axe towards Gram

'Too late' said Llana, as she redied her bow

"Damnfool machines, doesn't anyone parley anymore? We're not just looters!" yelled Shaka to the construct.

He summoned a Storm Atronach and sent it lumbering forward to try to help Gram. Though the summoned golem wasn't much taller than Gram, it was built far more powerfully than a man or mer; electricity crackled at the Atronach's joints.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 10:02 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 01:59 PM)

"Damnfool machines, doesn't anyone parley anymore? We're not just looters!" yelled Shaka to the construct.

He summoned a Storm Atronach and sent it lumbering forward to try to help Gram. Though the golem wasn't much taller than Gram, it was built far more powerfully than a man or mer; electricity crackled at the Atronach's joints.

The shock arrows bounced harmlessly off the armour, as the axe sliced the Atronach in two. Steam came from the golems joints as Llana aimed her arrows at these points, 'The weakness for most giant robots is the joints! Aim for them!' she yelled

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 5 2006, 10:04 PM

Erenius, still keeping his wits about him, and sizing up the thing, realized it was much too large to fit through the doorway leading to the tunnel they just came from.

"Mayhaps we should fall back!" Erenius shouts, also noting that some of the other suits were slowly activating, yet not doing anything but giving off a very dim glow.

The Imperial, turned about and went towards the portal, motioning to the others to do similar.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 10:08 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 10:02 PM)

Nalion cursed as the giant Steam Animunculi began to move and attack his companions. The mage retreated towards the back to the hall, trying to get out of reach of the giant axe, then began to incant an armour eater spell, which he managed to fling at the Golem. He targeted the same spot Llana had aimed on, hoping to break a joint by the combined effort.

The air seemed to flimmer from the heat and steam the Centurion produced, and this is what caught Nalion's eyes and brought a thoughtful frown on his face as he began to incant another spell.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 10:12 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 5 2006, 10:08 PM)

Gram looks at the giant Dwemer construct and bares his teeth; Frostkiss, sadly, was not suited for striking at the joints of such a massive creature. This monstrous metal beast called for his father's sword, Flametongue.

Drawing the silver Nordic claymore, Gram takes up a position by Nalion. "This reminds me of the beastie we fought back in Slyvos's old tower," he says, looking at the Breton. "Is that a plan I see swirling in your brain? Out with it quickly lad!"

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 10:12 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 5 2006, 11:08 PM)

The air seemed to flimmer from the heat and steam the Centurion produced, and this is what caught Nalion's eyes and brought a thoughtful frown on his face as he began to incant another spell.

Shaka had the feeling fire spells wouldn't accomplish much against these constructs; he attempted to throw cold spells instead. The Argonian waited to see if any of the automatons' joints began to freeze up . . . .

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 10:16 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 02:12 PM)

Llana's arrows bounced off the armour, missing the joints by mear centermeters, as the spell missed its mark. The cold spell missed the joint too, as the arm joint they were all aiming for was flailing about with the axes, but the spell hit the arm, and the robot's movements in the arm seemed to slow. Llana pulled out a cold enchanted arrow, and took aim at the neck joint...

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 5 2006, 10:22 PM

Anya had continued firing arrows, aiming at the legs to slow it down. She lead the joints as they moved, ensuring accurate shots.

Glancing at Llana, she pulled out a few arrows of her own, and took aim at the neck. She released the bow, the blue shimmering arrows arcing through the air.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 10:23 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 10:16 PM)

Gram suddenly gets a broad smile, and he tells Nalion and Llana "Keep his arm busy; I'm going to cut him down to size!"

With impressive speed belying his bulk, Gram dashes out, staying clear of the axe-wielding arm, pounding the ground toward one of the construct's massive legs. Holding Flametonge like a spear, he thrusts the enchanted blade at the ankle joint with all his strength ...

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 10:27 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 5 2006, 11:23 PM)

While Gram ran forward, Shaka alternated between hurling cold spells at the constructs, and protecting their two female archers by engaging the dwemer creations with the Spear.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 10:29 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 5 2006, 10:23 PM)

Nalion saw Shaka's cold spell and nodded.
"That's the right way to get this thing down!", he shouted. "Aim for the steam exhaust ports!"
The mage pointed towards a steam outlet, performed a gesture and with a spoken word, a freezing cold ball of ice flew towards the Dwemer Metal Giant.

Posted by: Osano Feb 5 2006, 10:30 PM

Athaso reconsidered his decision to 'stand guard' when faint screams could be heard down the hall his new companions had gone down (when the secret passage was opened). He briskly jogged after the others making his way past ectoplasmic material on the ground, missing the fight by mere moments.

Eventually, he caught up with the group, only to find they had a much bigger problem on their hands. "What in the?" he said under his breath as he came upon the mechanical beast. Knowing there was not much he could do to harm such a thing, the Dunmer lngered towards the back of the party, waiting to see if there was anyone in particular he could lend a hand to.

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 10:32 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 02:23 PM)

with his ankle joints broken by grams blade, and the spells and arrows putting momentum on him, the Dwemer construct fell backwards and into the wall, smashing a hole through the wall of the burrial chamber. The room shaked, but the construct gave no movement. It seemed his falling broke open a passageway into an ajoining cave, the construct did not move anymore, his powersource now depelated

'That was tough! shall we looksy in the cave?' Llana asked, sholdering her bow

Posted by: syronj Feb 5 2006, 10:37 PM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 5 2006, 11:32 PM)

Shaka caught his breath. "Well done, Gram, everyone," he finally said. "So the machine was guarding a cave or even a series of caverns? . . . Incredible. We might be seeing an area that hasn't been explored in millennia."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 10:42 PM

Gram dusts himself off, his ears still ringing from the soun of the contruct crashing through the cave wall. He nods at whatever Shaka and Llana are saying, sure that they're either suggesting they forge ahead or else praising him for his skills - either one being worthwhile utterances.

"Too bad we can't take this home for a trophy!" he says, rather loudly, as he kicks the construct in the foot. "Well done, everyone!" His voice drops to a more normal speaking tone as he continues "Kyne I could use a mead right now ..."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 5 2006, 10:44 PM

"Let's be careful, though.", Nalion said, stepping clear of the giant Centurion and watching it warily. "We should watch out for falling rocks, too."
The mage slowly proceeded towards the entrance to the newly discovered passageway, his curiosity was awakened.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 5 2006, 10:44 PM

Anya smiled grimly, "Typical, they build these massive machines, and yet they never seem to be able to do their jobs."

Anya made her way over the golem, and peaked into the hole that was smashed. She waved the group over, "You might want to take a look in here."

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 10:47 PM

The cave lead into a passageway which, although it was long and twisting long and twisting, it was large enough to walk upright all the way, and wide enough to walk three abreast. Soon, they reached a door, on the side of the cave wall. just around the bend of the cave ahead, could be seen sunlight, and the exit

Posted by: Osano Feb 5 2006, 10:54 PM

Athaso soon found himself pressing ahead of the others, just out of pure curiosity. And as he stepped through the door, and walked around the bend, he found it lead to a huge chamber, with sunlight beaming through an opening in the ceiling of the cave. The room was circular and large enough to hold a sizeable pond in the center that had accumulated from rain and snowfall.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 5 2006, 11:07 PM

Anya continued foward, glancing about the cave. She didn't see anything to catch her interest thoroughly yet, so she kept wallking foward.

Quickly, she came to the sunlight beaming through. Rounding the bend, she winced visibly, before stepping foward. Her eyes flared as she walked outside, but she quickly regained her composure. She found herself staring back at Remans Ridge. "Well this is convenient."

She called out to the group, "Over here, by the light. I think I found what we needed."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 5 2006, 11:09 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 5 2006, 11:07 PM)

Gram stares at the pond for a moment, commenting "We keep finding ponds these days; the gods must be trying to tell us something." He chuckles a little. "Something to ponder on."

Following Anya, Gram calls out "Well now! Here's a welcome sight; friends, behold the very path we were looking for, right through this cave."

Posted by: Shardie Feb 5 2006, 11:10 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 03:09 PM)

Llana ignored this room that Athaso opened up and headed for the exit

'Well, in a way... it would be useful at wintertime when the pass becomes unpassable... supplies could be bought through this ruin and cave' Llana said, Joining Anya, she looked up the mountian, 'so who wants to climb the mountian again?' she grinned

And so, our heroes climbed the pass once more, and made thier way to Ald Raatham, without encountering a single enemy soldier

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 06:12 AM

QUOTE(Shardie @ Feb 6 2006, 12:10 AM)

And so, our heroes climbed the pass once more, and made thier way to Ald Raatham, without encountering a single enemy soldier

The city walls were in sight, the obelisk gleaming above the harbor like a lighthouse. Shaka was looking forward to buying a round for the others.

"Funny how things work out," he mused. "The Dwemer probably would have never imagined they'd be helping a people like us. But now one of their ruins will be good for more than a smuggler's hideout, or a looter's curiousity."

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 6 2006, 03:56 PM

Valerius and company had returned to the city after hitting the Velothi Mountains. He was now in the Nymph and Noggin, a flagon of ale in his hand, going over the report he had written for The Dutchess about his exploration.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 04:43 PM

Erenius, sees Valerius and joins him at his table.

"How did it go?" Erenius asks, taking a seat.

Posted by: One87xe Feb 6 2006, 05:05 PM

*...Summary: Osa remains in The Nymph and Noggin, baking bread in her room and writing a letter to her sister's...*

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 6 2006, 06:18 PM

Anya passed the three argonian brothers, waving them aside. She dropped off her weapons, keeping only her dagger and throwing weapons. She threw on her cloak, opting to leave her armor off as well.

She paused just before leaving the door, and licked the corner of her mouth. She brough up her hand, wiping away excess blood that was dripping from the corner. She made her way back into town. For a person that didn't sleep, and for all that was needed to be done, she felt uncharacteristically restless.

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 06:26 PM

Shaka walked to the Nymph and Noggin and looked for Isidor. He spotted him near the main counter of the taproom.

"We're back, Isidor. Do you mind if I leave the Cuirass and Spear with you for today? It'll be a chance to unwind without all the gear."

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 6 2006, 06:35 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 06:26 PM)

"Sure, no problem." Isidor said, looking up with a smile. "How did the expedition go?"

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 06:42 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Feb 6 2006, 07:35 PM)

"Sure, no problem." Isidor said, looking up with a smile. "How did the expedition go?"

Taking a chair, Shaka said: "It went well. We retraced Llana's route through the mountains, but had to seek shelter from a storm in Angzerel, a Dwemer ruin in the pass. Turned out to be fortunate. Once we finished the animunculae guardians, we found the ruin connects to a cave and the outside."

"Now Daruhn has a way to bypass the enemy, an alternate route through the mountains to Cyrodiil and one that hopefully won't get snowed in as easily. Gram can fill in his daughter, and it's her decision of course but I won't be surprised if Ald Raathim ends up with a small garrison there. . . . I haven't heard what's planned yet. Anyway, some good news for a change."

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 6 2006, 06:43 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 03:43 PM)

Erenius, sees Valerius and joins him at his table.

"How did it go?" Erenius asks, taking a seat.

"As well as can be expected," Valerius replies, ending his report with a flourish, "Of course, with only twenty men, we couldn't do nearly as through of an expedition than I would have liked, but we did make it to the Velothi Mountains."

He pulled out the copy of the map that Erenius had left him, it was now far more crowded, with lines and boxes in a general line West of Ald Raathim. "The 'X's are where we've found caves that might fit our needs. If there's an 'E' there the caverns have been fully explored, and an 'L' means that they might be linked to others in the area. The lines are places that paths might be laid out in order of quality, dots being the worst and solid lines being the best. This," He tapped the still drying report, "and the map are going to the dutchess by this evening."

"But what about you? Did you have any good adventures that need retelling?"

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 6 2006, 06:47 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 06:42 PM)

"Ah," Isidor said, pulling up a chair a well. "Sounds like it was fun, and will do some good for Ald Raathim in the future ... Too bad I didn't tag along ... Anyway, how are things going with Anya?"

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 06:54 PM

Gathering his thoughts, Shaka noted with surprise that Diamond had returned from her captivity. Her eyes seemed haunted, though; Shaka would leave her alone until the day, if ever, that she felt like talking about it.

"Isidor, about as well as can be expected I guess. She and I are finally admitting to ourselves that her . . . state might be permanent. I'm grateful that she seems much the same in her heart, though. And Telera came to accept the change too, despite the traditional Dunmer horror of it."

"How are you and the family holding up? It's good to see the tavern looking a little more like the old days, not that that was so many months ago . . . ."

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 6 2006, 07:07 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 06:54 PM)

"It takes a lot to change someone's heart, it seems." Isidor said, furrowing his brow. "The family is doing well, the tavern is doing well, but I'm getting somewhat restless. I definitley can't leave, now that Kethiah is confined to the bed."

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 07:18 PM

QUOTE(stargate525 @ Feb 6 2006, 06:43 PM)

"But what about you? Did you have any good adventures that need retelling?"

"Seems like you've done quite a bit," Erenius says.

He then went on to say that the group had met in Cheydinhal after a Guild ride, the meeting with the Magistrate was mentioned, as well as the appearance of a new companion. He then mentioned their conundrum over the wheel-locks, saying only that the things more or less openned on their own it seemed, after almost a full day's wait. After that, the Dwemer armours were mentioned, with a slight reference to the text that Nalion and Shaka had mentioned.

"And thats pretty much all of it," Erenius says. "Almost wish you had decided to join us, that thing was a bit on the large side."

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 6 2006, 07:19 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 06:18 PM)

"Well someone had to do the dirty work on this side of the mountains now didn't they?" Valerius replied.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 07:22 PM

"Yes, and for that I'm thankful," Erenius says, thankful that Valerius had completed the job after Erenius returned to meet with the others to leave for the ruin.

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 07:25 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Feb 6 2006, 08:07 PM)

"Obligations . . . ." mused Shaka. "Maybe I spent too much of life avoiding them, without realizing it. Good thing that I ended up serving with Loranna's company out of personal loyalty. As it is, I live in a yurt outside of the city. Still trying to keep my distance I guess."

"All I can tell you is that after the child is born, maybe you'll be more free at some point for questing. But I've heard that parenthood means sleepless nights and a creature that depends on you twenty-four hours a day. . . . I guess your other two children will have to take up the slack."

Shaka clapped Isidor on the shoulder. "Anyway, there will still be much to do when you're more free for it. Who knows how long the war will last. Even when it's over, there will be years of rebuilding."

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 6 2006, 07:33 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 07:25 PM)

Isidor smiled.

"Family comes before adventures, I guess. Anyway, I should get back to work. Nice talking with you, Shaka."

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 07:36 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Feb 6 2006, 08:33 PM)

Isidor smiled.

"Family comes before adventures, I guess. Anyway, I should get back to work. Nice talking with you, Shaka."

"I'm glad that you feel you can talk about matters with me, though I'm probably not much use in these things. See you, Isidor."

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 08:01 PM

Athaso, fairly unfamiliar with the city, wandered the streets for a little while away from his newly found companions. Eventually, he found his way to a tavern called the Nymph and Noggin and quietly stepped inside. The patrons mostly consisted of strangers, but a few of the people in there he recognized from earlier. Despite that, the Dunmer bought himself a mazte and took up an empty table to drink it.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 6 2006, 08:07 PM

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 6 2006, 08:01 PM)

"I would wish that Ald Raathim would greet his visitors with a more fair scenery than what we see right now.", a voice from behind the Dunmer said. A Breton rounded the table and looked at the Dunmer. Athaso would recognize Nalion from the Dwemer cave adventure. The mage had changed his robes for unadorned, but high quality shirt and pants.
"War reached the city a few weeks ago...", the mage said. "Isn't sitting here alone a bit boring? May I join you?"

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 08:10 PM

Erenius returns from the bar area, a flask of wine in his hand. Seeing that many of the tables were full, or had those he'd rather not socialize with for various reasons, least of which being their appearance, Erenius spots the Dunmer that Llana had brought along from Cheydinhal.

"Mind if I take a seat?" Erenius asks, setting his drink down and taking a seat before a response could be made, greeting Nalion as he did so.

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 08:11 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 6 2006, 09:07 PM)

Athaso quickly looked up from his drink at the Breton, "Uh, sure. Please," he said gesturing towards the seat across from him. "I'm not sure that we've formally met," he said reaching a hand across to the man, "Athaso Sethen," he finished, trying to make a good impression. As Athaso greeted Nalion, another man had joined the table. "Eh, sure, take a seat," Sethen said to Erenius after the deed had been done. Like he did for Nalion, Athaso extended a hand to him and introduced himself.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 6 2006, 08:19 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 08:10 PM)

"Hello Erenius.", Nalion nodded to the Imperial. "How are you faring here?"

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 6 2006, 08:11 PM)

"Pleased to meet you, Athaso.", the mage said with a smile, taking the Dunmer's outstretched hand. "I am called Nalion."
Nalion waved to a barmaid and made a drinking gesture. The mage was pretty much a regular, and the barmaids knew which drink he would usually choose, and thus, a smiling serving girl brought him a glass of wine.
"Anything you want, Athaso, Erenius? I'm paying.", he said, before turning his attention to Athaso. "I heard Llana say you're a friend of hers. Do you know each other for a long time?"

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 08:22 PM

Erenius shakes Athaso's extended hand.

"Pleased to meet you, Athaso," Erenius says.

"I'm quite well, Nalion," Erenius tells the Breton scholar-mage, referring both to his drink and his well-being.

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 08:33 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 6 2006, 09:19 PM)

"Anything you want, Athaso, Erenius? I'm paying.", he said, before turning his attention to Athaso. "I heard Llana say you're a friend of hers. Do you know each other for a long time?"

"I'm fine thanks," Athaso said, holding up his Mazte after he shook Erenius' hand, "Yeah, I've known her ever since childhood..." his voice trailed off, "But what about you?" he asked Nalion, "Where do you hail from?"

Posted by: Nalion Feb 6 2006, 08:39 PM

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 6 2006, 08:33 PM)

"Evading the question?", Nalion thought to himself, smiling. Many of them had secrets or didn't want to talk about their past, and Nalion respected this.
"Llainfair. In High Rock, close to the Wrothgarian Mountains. A very nice village, if I may say so. Haven't been there in three months... Many things have happened here, and I was needed, and most things were very unpleasant."

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 08:42 PM

After finishing an ale, Shaka Recalled to his property.

It was noon. Shaka felt like puttering around the grounds for a while.

He inspected the Timsa-Come-By, and cut a few to give to Anya and Telera when he saw them next. That reminded him to cut the roses back, which led to preparing some beds for bulbs . . . .

Soon it was early afternoon. Shaka stood on a path in the gardens and tried to estimate where he could plant some flowering trees. The larger stone underfoot was meant to indicate that visitors should pause there for a particular view.

The mindless work before that had been a good break. There was still a lot of pruning and weeding to be done. . . .

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 08:43 PM

"I see... And what about you, Erenius? Where is it you're from?" Athaso asked, taking a sip from his drink. He figured he had little better to do with his life, so he might stay with these people for a while longer; and if that was the case, he wanted to get to know them.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 08:48 PM

"Small fishing village along in the Nibenay Valley," Erenius says. "Skadenhill was were I was born and bred."

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 08:51 PM

Athaso leaned back in his chair, "So...." Uncomfortable small talk, gotta love it. "What exactly were we doing so far up in the mountains anyway? I never quite understood."

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 08:54 PM

"Searching..." Erenius says. "For what, I think you know. At least you would know if you're aware of the situation of Ald Raathim."

"And what about you?" Erenius asked. "What were you doing in Cheydinhal before Llana found you?"

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:00 PM

"Fate, more or less. I don't really have a home, just float from town to town staying at taverns and inns. I don't have any talents to dictate my life, so I kinda just freelance for money and travel the world," Athaso replied, thinking back on his life. By freelancing, he really meant to say petty theivery, but freelancing sounded nicer.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:08 PM

"Hmm," Erenius says. "When I was your age, I took to the Legion along the Valenwood/Elswyer border after their little war ended. When this ends and the Empire builds a fort to keep things quiet, join. Good pay, free board, get some discipline and skills."

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:15 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:08 PM)

Athaso smiled slightly, "I thought about joining a while ago, but it's really not my type of work. But, perhaps when things settle..." As the conversation grew quiet, Athaso remembered his new longsword. He drew it non-threateningly and held it in his hands, inspecting the workmanship.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:17 PM

"Mayhaps," Erenius says, looking at Athaso's new sword, before turning to Athaso again. "You want a job?"

Posted by: Teleran Feb 6 2006, 09:18 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 06:42 PM)

Telera had retired from searching the ruins early today, before heading out to the yurt. No luck today among the ruined buildings, most of the vampires had probably noticed the ruins were watched and had found other areas to hide from the light of day.

Telera headed towards Shaka’s yurt to drop off some gear and make sure the garden didn’t get overgrown. She had cleared the area around the fishpond the day before, time to weed some area on the other side of the garden; the flower patches probably needed it now.

As she entered the garden she spied Shaka on the path, standing on a large stone. Yelling out a greeting, she ran to embrace him and smother him with kisses.

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:20 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:17 PM)

"Mayhaps," Erenius says, looking at Athaso's new sword, before turning to Athaso again. "You want a job?"

Athaso looked up at Erenius. Jobs usually meant pay of some kind, and Athaso's wallet was rather light, "I could use some work, what do you need done?"

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:22 PM

"As of now, nothing," Erenius says. "But of course, should the services be called upon, you'll need to be able to ride with some competence. You can do so, right?"

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:29 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:22 PM)

"As of now, nothing," Erenius says. "But of course, should the services be called upon, you'll need to be able to ride with some competence. You can do so, right?"

"Ride with competence? Yes, I can, but what exactly are you getting at?" Athaso inquired.

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 09:30 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Feb 6 2006, 10:18 PM)

As she entered the garden she spied Shaka on the path, standing on a large stone. Yelling out a greeting, she ran to embrace him and smother him with kisses.

Shaka held his arms wide for her. He buried his taloned fingers in Telera's thick brown hair as she kissed him.

"My turn, Beautiful," he said when she paused a moment. Shaka nuzzled the Dunmer, lovingly nipping the back of her neck. He turned her away from him and expertly took the tight spots out of her back and neck muscles with thumbs and fingers.

As always, he savored Telera's smell; Dunmer women always struck his Argonian senses as a pleasing mix of smoked tea and woodelf scent.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:34 PM

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 6 2006, 09:29 PM)

"Ride with competence? Yes, I can, but what exactly are you getting at?" Athaso inquired.

"Putting it bluntly, are in interested in joining my cavalry militia?" Erenius asks. "Pay's pretty good, 20 septims a week. Free room and board as I think I already said. Armour and weapons you still require are provided."

"There's no real formalities so you dont have to go about and keep your room in the best of condition. Alls I ask is that you follow my command should the city need to go to war again," Erenius says.

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:37 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:34 PM)

Athaso thought for a moment, "You know, I'm afraid I would have to get back to you on that. It's a pretty tempting offer, but I'm not sure that I'm ready to put myself at someone else's command as of yet," he said, finishing off his Mazte.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:42 PM

"As you say," Erenius replies, finishing his drink. "You dont have to join, I only ask that you give it fair and careful deliberation."

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:46 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:42 PM)

"As you say," Erenius replies, finishing his drink. "You dont have to join, I only ask that you give it fair and careful deliberation."

"I will," Athaso said flatly, leaning back in his chair a little more, "Are the any interesting places around this town? Other than bars, I mean."

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:50 PM

"Theres the pier, a number of ships are there, about a dozen at last count I think. Theres also the keep, Daruhn," Erenius says. "And theres a temple under construction I think, but other than that, this is it pretty much. Oh, and thers a House of Dibella, or so I've heard. Havent been there yet."

"We basically are a town of drunken champions awaiting the next call to somewhere," Erenius says, a smile coming across his face at those words.

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 09:54 PM

"Wow, the excitement in this town is killing me," Athaso said sarcastically, "So is this what everyone does all day? Drink at the tavern?" he finished, looking around the room.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 6 2006, 09:54 PM

Anya was almost to the town when she sniffed the air a bit, a familar scent touching her nose. Smiling brightly, she made her way to a familar road. She took her time, still feeling energized form the hunt she made in the forest not long ago.

She stood, pausing at the outskirts of Shaka's yurt, watching Telera and Shaka. A slow smile spread across her face, but was shadowed by a hint of sadness.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 09:56 PM

"Pretty much, but some occasionally give a hand to the groups about town cleaning this mess up," Erenius says.

"Wasnt there to see it happen, but I've heard that it was pretty close," Erenius adds in reference to the siege that occurred.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 6 2006, 09:57 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 09:50 PM)

"We're not all drunkards, as you should well know, Erenius.", Nalion said, burying a faint smile in his winecup as he took a sip. "Much has happened since you left the party. Much has changed."

Posted by: Osano Feb 6 2006, 10:01 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 6 2006, 10:56 PM)

"Well then, I suppose I will have a look around this city, see what I can't find," Athaso said before standing up, bowing slightly to Erenius, and walking out the door to roam the streets.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 6 2006, 10:01 PM

"So it has, Nalion. So we all have," Erenius replies to his friend. "I almost wish that matters back in the Imperial City hadnt forced me to leave you all after your time win the Vault."

"Well, I do apologize, but I must be going for a time," Erenius says. "May you both have a good afternoon and I suppose I may see you at dinner."

Posted by: Teleran Feb 6 2006, 10:16 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 07:30 PM)

Telera reveled in Shaka’s embrace, and made Shaka’s massage a little easier to administer by removing her shirt, and his as well to trail her fingers down his back to the Argonian pleasure meridians, toying with the idea of activating them for a moment before doing so as she pressed against him.

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 10:44 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Feb 6 2006, 11:16 PM)

Shaka was smiling, his eyes closed, when Telera sent a pulse of magicka into one of the Argonian pleasure meridians. He only had time to think, Minx before the white light exploded behind his eyes. Shaka fell back, his shoulders and head hitting the grass, but stayed conscious.

After a minute, he sat up again and placed a hand affectionately on the side of Tel's face, shaking his head slightly. "Looks as if you remembered my lessons. Love you, Tel."

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 6 2006, 10:52 PM

Anya shook her head at the affection, and decided she had enough watching. She quietly made her way to the yurt and into the gardens. Quickly wrapping her arms around she, she giggled, "And you two never thought to invite me?"

She kissed Shaka several times, along his face and neck.

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 11:01 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 6 2006, 11:52 PM)

"Anya," he said with wonder. "I must have died and gone to Aetherius lately."

The three embraced, and the kisses and caresses grew more fevered.

It's been a long time since I tried this on you, Anya, he thought, and activated the Bosmer's pleasure meridian.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 6 2006, 11:19 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 10:01 PM)

Anya's body shivered in goosebumps and her skin rippled as she lost control, turning pale. She gasped, a reflex she hadn't used since before, showing her teeth.

Quickly, she latched onto his neck again, kissing. Her nose flared, his musky scent sharper, and she bit. Lightly, her teeth dung past his scales, and she felt his familiar blood flow. She breifly wondered how far her hunger when past physical needs as her mouth tingled despite already feeding that day. It was brushed aside as she buried herself closer.

Anya jerked back suddenly, her face a mix of horror and need. She reeled back a step, muttering quickly as her hand came up and wiped her mouth of his blood, "No! No, I can't do that. I mustn't, but I need you so much..."

Posted by: syronj Feb 6 2006, 11:25 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 12:19 AM)

Anya's body shivered in goosebumps and her skin rippled as she lost control, turning pale. She gasped, a reflex she hadn't used since before, showing her teeth.

Quickly, she latched onto his neck again, kissing. Her nose flared, his musky scent sharper, and she bit. Lightly, her teeth dug past his scales, and she felt his familiar blood flow. She breifly wondered how far her hunger when past physical needs as her mouth tingled despite already feeding that day. It was brushed aside as she buried herself closer.

Anya jerked back suddenly, her face a mix of horror and need. She reeled back a step, muttering quickly as her hand came up and wiped her mouth of his blood, "No! No, I can't do that. I mustn't, but I need you so much..."

Shaka's eyes were glazed, but sharpened suddenly. He grabbed Anya's face in both hands and said intently: "Do it. Just . . . not to the point of death."

Posted by: Teleran Feb 6 2006, 11:40 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 6 2006, 09:19 PM)

Telera yelped in surprise, “Shaka! What happened?” Realizing exactly what happened she looked to Anya, “Anya… are you… feeling okay?”

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 09:25 PM)

Shaka's eyes were glazed, but sharpened suddenly. He grabbed Anya's face in both hands and said intently: "Do it. Just . . . not to the point of death."

She interposed herself between them forcibly. Looking at Anya she stated evenly, “Enough.”

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 6 2006, 11:48 PM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Feb 6 2006, 10:40 PM)

Telera yelped in surprise, “Shaka! What happened?” Realizing exactly what happened she looked to Anya, “Anya… are you… feeling okay?”

She interposed herself between them forcibly. Looking at Anya she stated evenly, “Enough.”

Anya held up her hand slightly, toying with the ring she had been given by Loranna, "Well, um, I've got this. It'll cure any disease, and heal the bite."

Anya looked nervously, her glowing eyes still showing signs of intensity and pleasure, "I don't want to hurt either of you. Your smell is so sharp though, and I love you immensely."

Posted by: Teleran Feb 7 2006, 12:01 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 6 2006, 09:48 PM)

“No feeding,” Telera said, pulling herself away. “If you need blood, ask and I will give it, straight if you like. But not like this.”

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 12:06 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Feb 7 2006, 01:01 AM)

“No feeding,” Telera said, pulling herself away. “If you need blood, ask and I will give it, straight if you like. But not like this.”

"Agreed," said Shaka, and put a hand on both women's shoulders. "Let's step back from this. . . . I'm sorry, Anya, Tel."

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 12:14 AM

QUOTE(Teleran @ Feb 6 2006, 11:01 PM)

“No feeding,” Telera said, pulling herself away. “If you need blood, ask and I will give it, straight if you like. But not like this.”

QUOTE(syronj @ Feb 6 2006, 11:06 PM)

"Agreed," said Shaka, and put a hand on both women's shoulders. "Let's step back from this. . . . I'm sorry, Anya, Tel."

Anya frowned, more angry with herself than either of the other two. Anya glanced at Telera, then to Shaka, "I'll- be at home."

She turned around in a quick manner, and began walking away, ignoring any looks or anything that might have been said to her. Lotus wheeled near her side after she made some distance, clacking worriedly at her fustrated air. She asked rhetorically, "Why would I do that to Shaka, Lotus?"

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 12:26 AM

Shaka looked at Telera. "Thanks for your common sense today, Tel."

"Later, maybe you can talk to Anya. . . . I have some apologizing to do to her as well."

Shaka walked a few yards away, turning over in his mind the events of the afternoon.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 12:54 AM

Much Belated Summary

Kethiah, ex-assassin, co-proprietor of the Nymph and Noggin, on hiatus as a tavernkeep and as Loranna's Excise and Import/Export Agent (and, secretly, her Spymaster) is in her room, learning magic from Uardilla, sorceress of the Mages Guild, as she comes into her 9th month of pregnancy.

Alas and Alack, ex-smuggler Khajiiti and currently the Duchess's Excise and Import/Export Agent (and secretly, her Spymasters) are supervising the construction of a Resolution of Zenithar temple on the waterfront where they will act as priests.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 01:54 AM

Ald Raathim

Loranna, clad in her usual blue robes, enters the Nymph and Noggin, her eyes scanning for a coupleof familiar faces.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:00 AM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 6 2006, 11:54 PM)

Ald Raathim

Loranna, clad in her usual blue robes, enters the Nymph and Noggin, her eyes scanning for a coupleof familiar faces.

"Your Gracity," Alas bowed low, his priestly vestments sweeping grandly. "Has you seen the Resolution of Zenithar's constructation? 'Twill be a grand additation to Ald Raathim's worfs."

"Forsooth and 'sblood," Alack agreed with another bow. "Though the House of Dibella still reigneth supreme."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:00 AM)

The Nymph and Noggin
"Your Gracity," Alas bowed low, his priestly vestments sweeping grandly. "Has you seen the Resolution of Zenithar's constructation? 'Twill be a grand additation to Ald Raathim's worfs."

"Forsooth and 'sblood," Alack agreed with another bow. "Though the House of Dibella still reigneth supreme."

"I saw the construction," Loranna says, grinning a little. "Right next to the secondary temple the Tribunal faithful seem to be putting up - and I hear they're planning on building a statue of Vivec holding up his spear to welcome incoming merchants."

"So, how has the priestly life been teating you two?" Loranna asks as she heads for a private booth.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 12:03 AM)

"There be ever so many faithful in need of absolutation," Father Alack sighed. "Such a lot of confession from them merchants at sea that is coming into harbor again. Specially now that Tel Dresori ain't trading anymore."

"There be a couple Redoran ships in the harbor there," Father Alas added. "But they looks abandoned apprently. Musta sent some troops in who didn't return ..."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 02:14 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:09 AM)

"So I was afraid to hear," Loranna says, her brows furrowing. "And no one else seems interested in going to find out what's happening there, it seems. Wise, perhaps ..."

"What stories do the merchants tell of Tel Dresori?" she asks. "I am intrigued by every little detail."

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 12:14 AM)

"Oh, the Alliance ain't finished yet," Alas shook his head. "They're sending in more ships soon, word be."

"And this be interestin'," Alack added. "There's a river now that weren't there before. Sorta sprung up over the course of a couplea nights ... Goes north to south, cuttin' off Tel Dresori from the west. Not too deep or wide ... Hard ta tell what it's used fer."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 02:28 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:21 AM)

"A new river sprung up?" Loranna asks, raising her eyebrows. "Hmm ... so, basically, cutting Tel Dresori off from the rest of the mainland, right?"

"On a possibly related note, has that gentleman Morvath Pisquine been hanging around Ald Raathim since I asked you to keep an eye on him?" Loranna inquires.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:31 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 12:28 AM)

"Yeah, Tel Dresori be cut off, but like I says, it ain't a deep or a wide river," Alack replied. "Queer that. No good reason fer it, as far as anyone can say."

"Pisquine hanged around for a little while," Alas added. "Tried to get in to see Magister Zadion, but didn't have no luck. Then he took off into the trees to the south, and ain't been seen since ..."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 02:38 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:31 AM)

"I see," Loranna says, frowning; she had a few semi-wild guesses about the nature of that river, but nothing with which to confirm or deny her suspiscions.

" ... And, I take it, no word heard about Lord Minsero either," she asks, her expression betraying a faint bit of hope ...

Posted by: Shardie Feb 7 2006, 02:40 AM

His Parrapton was ready, his letters of introduction sent, and his bags packed. As usual during his absence, his trusty garrison commander would take command of day to day matters, and the mayor of Kragenmoor would take over domestic matters, all of which normally had to be countersigned by Faryon. The Journey was long and harsh, intill he reached his first stopover, Cheydinhal. There, he planned to spend the night in the spare room of the local magistrate, who was an old friend. Among dinner conversation came up the name Gram Pyrel.
'You have heard of him? Nordic guy'
'Only by reputation, not on our side, you see, his daugter is pretender Dutchess Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raatham' Faryon remarked, 'You should have taken them into custody, I would have had fun ransoming him off...' he took a sip of wine and laughed at the joke. He would actually never do that, for it would envoke the wrath of god apon his city.
'I had nothing to hold him on, sorry Faryon' said the Magistrate in full sincerity
'Oh, I was only joking! But more importantly, why were they here? It might be a matter to look into when I return to Kragenmoor. But for now, its a vacation from the war, and the death and the responsiblity'
'You heading to the Imperial City tomorrow?'
'Yes, by carrage.'
'When is your audience?'
'When ever he will see me,' Faryon finished the sip of wine, 'If you'll exuse me, I think I might go to bed'
'Night, Faryon'
As he walked up the stairs, Faryon mumbled to himself how much he hated that man... although he was a good source. What he needed was a spymaster to do all this dirty work for him (his last one dieing quite tragicly at the hands of the slave revolt, not that he didnt deserve it)

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 12:38 AM)

"No, no word 'bout he," Alas shook his head. "Though they says his ship's still in the harbor --"

"Though it's flag is down," Alack added, frowning a little. "Instead, there's a flag with a symbol of a Wheel. Ain't got a clue what that's means."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 02:48 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:45 AM)

Loranna frowns as well. "What sort of Wheel?" she asks. "Can you describe it?"

... The Wheel? What would that mean ... Loranna ponders, resolving to check with Zadion immediately after this interview.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 02:56 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 12:48 AM)

"I can do better 'n that, Your Gracitude," Alack replied, taking out a scrap of paper. "I had me contact write it down. Now, he didnt wanna get too close, right, but he swore it looked as this."

It was a wagon wheel, with spokes that went slightly beyond the circumference, turning into spikes. There were twelve of them, and the middle of the wheel looked like an eye.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 03:00 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 02:56 AM)

"How ... interesting ..." Loranna says, wondering what this symbol meant ...

"Mind if I hang onto this?" she asks, indicating the paper scrap.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 01:00 AM)

"How ... interesting ..." Loranna says, wondering what this symbol meant ...

"Mind if I hang onto this?" she asks, indicating the paper scrap.

"Of course not, Duchness," Alack grinned. "I got it for you."

"Tryin' to think of anything else of innerest," Alas scratched his head. "You know the Queen Mother and Morgiah, who be Muthsera Hlaalu Morgiah now, and 'er daughter Rinnala is all in Mournhold now? One big happy family in the palace."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 03:10 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 03:08 AM)

"Ah, they made it safely back," Loranna says with relief, before asking " ... And just how does it sound like the King and his court are taking the reunion?"

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 03:22 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 01:10 AM)

"Ah, they made it safely back," Loranna says with relief, before asking " ... And just how does it sound like the King and his court are taking the reunion?"

"Always hard to tell with the King, you know?" Alas smiled. "If Helseth's happy, he don't smile. If he's sad, he don't frown. Only thing you can tell be when he's angry, and he ain't that. When he bellows, you can 'ear it from the harbor, and no one says they heard nothing."

Magister Zadion had entered the tavern, and Alack touched Loranna's elbow subtly to draw her attention to him.

"That's all the news that's fit to tell, and more," Alack grinned.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 03:24 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 03:22 AM)

"Thank you dears; I'll have to stop down to see how the construction is going and soon," Loranna says, smiling. "Excuse me one moment."

Loranna rises and heads toward Zadion, smiling a bit. "Greetings Magister; might I have a moment of your time?"

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 03:34 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 01:24 AM)

Loranna rises and heads toward Zadion, smiling a bit. "Greetings Magister; might I have a moment of your time?"

Magister Zadion was not heading to the bar, but through the tavern en route to the garden where there were a number of herbs that wouldn't grow in the Mages Guild herbarium. He was startled for a moment by Loranna's approach, and then smiled.

"Of course, Your Grace," the Altmer smiled. "Would you come out with me to the garden? You can probably spot the choicest blooms as well or better than I."

The garden behind the Nymph and Noggin was almost a jungle. Kethiah had begun it, but as she was used to the poor conditions of horticulture in Vas, she was not used to pruning anything back. Bob took what was needed for the kitchen, and Isidor had tried to keep it well weeded in his expanded duties, but it was still very overgrown.

"What can I do for you, Loranna?" Zadion asked.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 03:37 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 03:34 AM)

Loranna winced inwardly at the sight of Kethiah's garden, and she had to hold back from asking Zadion to help her prune the overgrown flora; she privately vows to give Kethiah some tips she picked up from maintaining Jazbet's herb garden.

"I had a question or two for you; first being, do you recognize this symbol?" Loranna asks, handing Zadion the sheet. "And what blooms are you looking for? I see some nice-looking fire petals and some heavy-hanging stoneflowers ..."

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 03:43 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 01:37 AM)

"A little of both, plus any interesting mushrooms you see ..." Zadion replied, then he took a look at the paper, the color draining from his face. "Yes, I recognize it. It is a mark of a vampire tribe called the Diodata. By the Nine, don't tell me that's been seen here!"

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 03:48 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 03:43 AM)

"Plenty of mushrooms around here ..." Loranna mutters, before Zadion's exclamation brought her up short.

"No, not here," she says, her face hardening. "Tel Dresori, which now sports a new, shallow river cutting it off from the rest of the mainland. This wheel was seen on Minsero's ship ..."

Her teeth grind as she contemplates Minsero's fate. "I've tried to see what other help we can muster; I hear the Indoril and Redoran are sending more people in to investigate, and I sent them a letter warning them of the damger, but I fear we're going to have to act soon ..."

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 03:57 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 01:48 AM)

"Plenty of mushrooms aroun here ..." Loranna mutters, before Zadion's exclamation brought her up short.

"No, not here," she says, her face hardening. "Tel Dresori, which now sports a new, shallow river cutting it off from the rest of the mainland. This wheel was seen on Minsero's ship ..."

Her teeth grind as she contemplates Minsero's fate. "I've tried to see what other help we can muster; I hear the Indoril and Redoran are sending more people in to investigate, and I sent them a letter warning them of the damger, but I fear we're going to have to act soon ..."

"Very soon," Zadion said, as seriously as Loranna had ever heard him. "As you know, I'm no expert in matters of the vampire. But Morvath Pisquine told me about the Diodata. They are an abomination, even among the undead, for they are bolder than their brethren. This is about Tel Dresori, isn't it? That was something that Pisquine thought might have been the tribe responsible ... They are very powerful, but there exists another tribe which is even more powerful, which requires their blood to live. The Diodata usually take over islands, because their enemies, the Korgari, cannot cross over water. It is usually only a matter of a few weeks before the Korgari find a way to get to them ... and then there is a bloodbath like no other, and it always, always crosses over to neighboring lands."

Zadion took a deep breath. "You will need all the help you can get to stop this before it escalates beyond the borders of Tel Dresori."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 04:05 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 03:57 AM)

Loranna picks out the choicest mushrooms she can find. "What do we know of the abilities and weaknesses of the Diodata and the Korgari?" she asks Zadion, her mind already drawing up a plan of attack.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 04:15 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 02:05 AM)

Loranna picks out the choicest mushrooms she can find. "What do we know of the abilities and weaknesses of the Diodata and the Korgari?" she asks Zadion, her mind already drawing up a plan of attack.

"The Diodata have the usual weakness of the vampire, with regards to sunlight, silver, and the touch of the holy," Zadion replied. "Their power seems to be in their physical strength. The Diodata Ancients, they say can watch through the eyes of the others ..."

"The Korgari have none of the weaknesses of the vampire," Zadion continued. "They do not fear the sun, or holy places, or any weapon but the mightiest. Water does burn them however, and they cannot cross over it, like I said. Not surprisingly, their power is heat. They can even transform themselves into living flame, and even teleport into nearby fires. You can see between the Diodata's strength and the Korgari's flames how destruction follows in the wake of their war."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 04:21 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 04:15 AM)

Loranna stops, and looks at Zadion for a moment, muttering "I see; if there's any Korgari around, my husband's going to be at a severe disadvantage ... ah well, we must work with what we have."

"All right then; we had better start making some plans," Loranna continues. "And, some supplies; I have a few items I'd like to requisition from your enchanters ..."

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 04:25 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 02:21 AM)

"While I am in control of the Ald Raathim Mages Guild," Zadion said, not bothering to add the disclaimer for not much longer. "We are at your disposal. In fact, if we're able to act quickly, I can dedicate the entirety of the Guild to this endeavor. Archmagister Traven cannot look unkindly on such an endeavor against the forces of the undead. I have to tell you, in all seriousness, that if we don't stop the Diodata, we will be at the mercy of a vendetta between two tribes which will spread throughout the east."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 04:29 AM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Feb 7 2006, 04:25 AM)

"Blood attracts blood," Loranna mutters. "I don't doubt you dear; the fact that these Dioata are brazen enough to fly their flag in Dres lands means they're simply asking for trouble ..."

Her voice takes on a hard edge as she finishes " ... and they're going to get it, in spades."

"Let's head to the Guild," Loranna suggests.

Posted by: S'reddit Feb 7 2006, 04:33 AM

The Mages Guild, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 02:29 AM)

"Let's head to the Guild," Loranna suggests.

Magister Zadion nods, and the two (not forgetting their herbs and mushrooms) leave the tavern, and make their way to the town center. The construction of the Imperial Embassy is still under way as they make their way into the dark musty interior of the Mages Guild.

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 08:26 AM

Shaka's Journal

I let Anya walk away this afternoon; probably a mistake. After second thoughts, I realized that this time she has nothing to apologize for; nor will I rush to apologize to her and Telera. The worst I can say is that I unleashed her nature today. Why, though, should the wolf be asked to live as a sheep?

Anya's plight remains, but we shouldn't be afraid to face it.

Loranna's adventurers seem to be better off when we have a quest. No doubt there is more work ahead of us than construction, however necessary.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 04:03 PM

Anya entered the Nymph & Noggin, taking a secluded corner. She would have much prefered to go to the Drunken Guar, but it was rubble. As it stood, she enjoyed the tavern, the smells, the sounds, the murmurs of business coming to and fro. Tension was palpable. What most struck her, though, was the scent of the people, sharp to her nose.

She layed her head back and closed her eyes. Trying to blot out the taste of Shaka's blood. Sleep wouldn't come, but it was relaxing to distance herself from the immediate world. She wiggled her nose at the scents of the tavern, people intermingled with food.

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 04:15 PM

The Nymph and Noggin

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 05:03 PM)

Anya felt it again. The unmistakable chill, and scent of the vampire in the vicinity.

Opening up her eyes, she immediately knew the other creature was close, but the tavern was crowded. Helseth's royal soldiers, the former Muatramer warriors, the Zenithar faithful, the locals, all crowded together.

Then she saw the vampire.

He was a Breton with blond hair that fell to his shoulders, tan living flesh, not at all the portrait of the undead. But his dark eyes had found her too. He was talking with a group of soldiers, sharing a laugh, but he was looking directly at Anya.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 04:24 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 03:15 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin
Anya felt it again. The unmistakable chill, and scent of the vampire in the vicinity.

Opening up her eyes, she immediately knew the other creature was close, but the tavern was crowded. Helseth's royal soldiers, the former Muatramer warriors, the Zenithar faithful, the locals, all crowded together.

Then she saw the vampire.

He was a Breton with blond hair that fell to his shoulders, tan living flesh, not at all the portrait of the undead. But his dark eyes had found her too. He was talking with a group of soldiers, sharing a laugh, but he was looking directly at Anya.

Anya watched intently, not at all happy with the situation. Her hands were under the table, which allowed her to flex her claws.

She pursed her lips, resisting a small urge to leap at him now. She glanced at the empty seat across from her, taking a moment to see if he was the only vampire in the room.

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 04:32 PM

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 05:24 PM)

The vampire walked over to her, an enigmatic smile on his lips.

"Greetings, sister," he said quietly. "Awkward situation. I looked for marks, but I didn't see any that said this tavern was someone else's domain. Are you new to Ald Raathim as well?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 04:36 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 03:32 PM)

The Nymph and Noggin, Ald Raathim
The vampire walked over to her, an enigmatic smile on his lips.

"Greetings, sister," he said quietly. "Awkward situation. I looked for marks, but I didn't see any that said this tavern was someone else's domain. Are you new to Ald Raathim as well?"

Anya's face relaxed, but she remained tense. One lesson she learned early in life was sometimes a friendly demeanor may be genuine, but sometimes it may not.

She brought her hands up, and layed them on the table, out of veiw from the general public, and flashed a feral smile, "Well, brother, in a manner of speaking, I am new here, and in other ways, this has always been my domain. You'll excuse me if I'm blunt and say I'm not one to like others in this particular city at all."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 04:44 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 05:36 PM)

"Of course you don't," the vampire nodded, flashing his own fanged smile at her. "Why would you want others to share your hunting grounds and risk exposing you? Don't worry, sister. I'm only here for a day or two, and then I'm moving on. Kingston is the name."

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 04:51 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 03:44 PM)

"Cheryl Nightblade." Anya's mind worked quickly, cursing that she hadn't had a chance to changed skins, "But I'm sure you've noticed, I, unfortunately, am not the only one prowling the city nights. If you'd mind a bit of prying, what brings you to Ald Raathim?"

Anya was unsettled by his friendly demeanor, not at all like the lupine, or the few others she had the displeasure of meeting.

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 05:18 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 05:51 PM)

"Do you mind if I sit?" Kingston asked, taking the empty seat before Anya had a chance to give a yay or a nay. "I guess you'd say the winds of war brought me. But I don't think I usually have a reason for anything. Mostly I just go on instinct. Serves me pretty well. But you're right -- we're not the only predators in Ald Raathim. I don't think it's quite overhunted yet, but there is that risk, of course."

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 05:30 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 04:18 PM)

"So it would seem. I, fortunate for my part, am taking measures to prevent such overhunting."

Anya studied Kingston, a littled annoyed with his impetuous act, but a little taken with his flair. "Tell me, Kingston, what would you do, now that you're here?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 05:37 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 06:30 PM)

"My plans are in flux," the vampire smiled and gave a shrug. "Before I realized that this tavern was your domain, I was thinking about luring one of those soldiers out for a bite, and then finding a place to sleep. Then, like I said, in a day or two, I'd move off. If you'd like to make sure others don't hunt in your territory, Cheryl, I'd recommend affixing your tribe mark somewhere. Won't guarantee you won't have any trouble, but at least creatures like me won't invade your domain out of ignorance."

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 05:55 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 04:37 PM)

"Thank you for your concern, brother, though I can't help but wonder if it's partially for your own safety." Anya pursed her lips in thought, no concerns but for the immediate future, an odd concept to be sure, "I'd reccomend doing yourself a favor, and either moving out today, or at least keep the lowest of profiles. Were this any other day, you and I wouldn't be having this conversation."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 06:11 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 06:55 PM)

"It's completely about my own safety," Kingston chuckled. "If we fought, under the best of circumstances, I'd win. But what would I win? I don't want your domain, Cheryl, or your blood. I think we would be wise to take one another's advice."

He stood up.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 06:34 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 05:11 PM)

Anya resisted a frown, her pride damaged from his assertion. "It was interesting meeting you, Kingston. I wouldn't want any ruckus made, or blood unnessecarily wasted, tonight either. You certianly are more forthcoming than the pigs that slink around here."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 06:44 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 07:34 PM)

Kingston laughed. "I'm going to assume you meant that as a compliment, and I'll take it. You're not a Diodata, that's clear. I would count this as a pleasant meeting, Cheryl. I sincerely hope that when and if we meet again, it will be the same."

The vampire with a wink left out the front door.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 06:46 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 05:44 PM)

"Diodata?" Anya muttered, frowning. She made a mental to see if Loranna knew, or if she knew if Zadion knew, what a Diodata was.

She leaned back, momentarily left in her solitude.

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 06:54 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 07:46 PM)

"Diodata?" Anya muttered, frowning. She made a mental to see if Loranna knew, or if she knew if Zadion knew, what a Diodata was.

She leaned back, momentarily left in her solitude.

Kingston's departure left Anya with two seemingly contradictory feelings. When his vampiric presence was gone, the slight psychic chill also left. But she also realized that while he had been sitting at her table, there had been a comfortable warmth, and the candle had glowed with a mellow, complimentary golden light. It had not even flickered. Thus, she felt both the absence of one chill, and the absence of another warmth and light.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 06:56 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 06:54 PM)

Loranna enters the Nymph and Noggin, looking around for her companions; her expression looks grim ...

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 7 2006, 06:58 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 05:56 PM)

Loranna enters the Nymph and Noggin, looking around for her companions; her expression looks grim ...

Reeds noticed her enter. Concerned, he left his drink and walked up to her. "Is there something the matter?"

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 7 2006, 07:02 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 06:56 PM)

Loranna enters the Nymph and Noggin, looking around for her companions; her expression looks grim ...

Erenius takes note of the Duchess' entrance. He had returned some time ago and was sitting with a few strangers. Excusing himself he makes his way forth to the front of the Tavern, joining Reeds there.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 07:03 PM

Nalion walked away from the bar where he had stood. He saw Loranna and recognized by her look that something was wrong. Grabbing his glass of wine, he walked over to the Nord Duchess, with a frown on his face.
"What is it, Loranna? You look like the world has grown darker once more.", he asked.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Feb 7 2006, 07:08 PM

Slyvos was sitting at the bar still, pratically asleep for some reason or another. When he heard that Loranna just walked in though, he was awake enough to pick his head up off the counter, and pull out a restore fatigue potion to get him going again.

"Nalion, when is the world ever not turning darker during this war?" he said with a rather grim look on his face. "so, what's going on Loranna?"

Posted by: Aki Feb 7 2006, 07:08 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 07:56 PM)

Loranna enters the Nymph and Noggin, looking around for her companions; her expression looks grim ...

Reichi followed in shortly after, he almost went to the bar to get a drink, but then he noticed the others, and Loranna's storm-cloud dark expression. The Dunmer shifted course to move towards Loranna and the others. "Lemme guess, bad news has blown in like a ashstorm offa Red Mountain?"

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 07:09 PM

Shaka walked into the tavern, and lifted a hand in greeting to Anya. Seeing a number of the company gathering around Loranna, he joined them.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 07:12 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 05:56 PM)

Loranna enters the Nymph and Noggin, looking around for her companions; her expression looks grim ...

Anya opened her eyes, having heard her approach, and looked at with worry, "Eh, Loranna, real quick? You wouldn't happen to know what a Diodata is, would you?"

Posted by: Osano Feb 7 2006, 07:13 PM

Athaso, having surveyed Ald Raathim, grew bored and hungry and allowed himself to float back to the Nymph and Noggin, (wouldnt you know it?) seeing as that appeared to be a prime meeting place for adventureers.

Upon entering, Athaso recognized several people from earlier gathered around a single person. Not wanting to intrude, he sat at the bar within earshot to hear what was going on.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 07:21 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 07:03 PM)

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 07:12 PM)

Anya opened her eyes, having heard her approach, and looked at with worry, "Eh, Loranna, real quick? You wouldn't happen to know what a Diodata is, would you?"

Loranna stares at Anya in mild surprise, her eyes saying that yes, she knew what a Diodata was ...

"I'm about to discuss those very people, actually," Loranna says, blinking away the surprise. "Slyvos dear, will you take everyone up to the meeting room upstairs and make sure it's secure?" She smiles at her husband.

Quietly, to Anya, Loranna asks "Where'd you hear the term dear?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 07:24 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 06:21 PM)

Quietly, to Anya, Loranna asks "Where'd you hear the term dear?"

Anya looked thoughtful for a moment, "From a... well another vampire. He was different though, not at all the bloody-hunger beasts I've killed. Left the most interesting of feelings, a warmth I guess is the word."

"He said he was glad I wasn't one, before leaving the tavern."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 07:26 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 07:21 PM)

The presence of so many of her companions brightens Loranna's counterance for a moment, their collective CHIM bouying her spirits. Still, her recent conversation with Zadion weighs on her thoughts as she answers Nalion with "More we need to act quickly to prevent an even worse darkness, Nalion." Looking to her companions, she says "We need to talk; something's come up. Follow me please."
Loranna stares at Anya in mild surprise, her eyes saying that yes, she knew what a Diodata was ...

"I'm about to discuss those very people, actually," Loranna says, blinking away the surprise. "Slyvos dear, will you take everyone up to the meeting room upstairs and make sure it's secure?" She smiles at her husband.

"Then we should waste no time. And we may need all the help we can get.", Nalion answered. He knew Loranna well enough now that she would not idly make this dark mood.

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 7 2006, 07:13 PM)

On his way to the upper meeting room, Nalion stopped at Athaso.
"It seems we are facing some problems. If you are willing and able to help, Athaso, we'd appreciate it.", the mage said, motioning the Dunmer to join the group.

Posted by: Osano Feb 7 2006, 07:28 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 08:26 PM)

"Then we should waste no time. And we may need all the help we can get.", Nalion answered. He knew Loranna well enough now that she would not idly make this dark mood.

On his way to the upper meeting room, Nalion stopped at Athaso.
"It seems we are facing some problems. If you are willing and able to help, Athaso, we'd appreciate it.", the mage said, motioning the Dunmer to join the group.

"Hmm? Oh, I'll see if I can't lend a hand," Athaso replied to Nalion as the group moved upstairs.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Feb 7 2006, 07:29 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 07:21 PM)

"I'm about to discuss those very people, actually," Loranna says, blinking away the surprise. "Slyvos dear, will you take everyone up to the meeting room upstairs and make sure it's secure?" She smiles at her husband.

Slyvos gives a small smile back, but the rest of his face says he's anything but happy with this situation. "alright, everyone follow me upstairs."

must be important... I'm usually right when I have bad feelings like that. he thought to himself with a disappointed appearance, his shoulders almost slumping at the thought of what may be to come, as he got to the meeting room, finding it empty and in perfect condition for when the others caught up. If they followed at all...

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 7 2006, 07:30 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Feb 7 2006, 06:29 PM)

Reeds had followed. He grabbed a chair near the door and waited for Loranna.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 7 2006, 07:36 PM

Erenius did likewise, wonderring just what would be important enough to call everyone of import together.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 07:38 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 07:24 PM)

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Feb 7 2006, 07:29 PM)

"Thank you everyone for coming," Loranna says, her eyes falling on Athaso, "... and welcome, new friend..." A brief introduction from Nalion clears up Loranna's questions, an she smiles to Athaso, saying "Then thank you for your help to our city, Serjo, and welcome to Ald Raathim; it's good to meet you."

Pleasnatries aside, Loranna gets down to business. "I've learned new information about Tel Dresori, information which requires us to act quickly." She recounts her conversation with Magister Zadion, explaining what is known on the Diodata and Korgari clans of vampires, the new river around Tel Dresori, and the fierce rivalry between the two clans.

"If matters aren't brought to a stop now, we're looking at another war breaking out in Morrowind, a war between vampires," Loranna concludes, looking to her friends.

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 07:41 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 08:38 PM)

"If matters aren't brought to a stop now, we're looking at another war breaking out in Morrowind, a war between vampires," Loranna concludes, looking to her friends.

"Kind of daunting," said Shaka quietly. "I used to think the three clans of Vvardenfell were impressive; now they seem like amateurs compared to the welter of clans out there."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 07:45 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 07:38 PM)

Loranna looks puzzled for a moment. "Warmth, you say?" she asks, frowning thoughtfully. "Hmm ...'

" ... We'll discuss this other person after the meeting; I think you'll find a number of questions answered," Loranna says, leading Anya up to the meeting room.
"Thank you everyone for coming," Loranna says, her eyes falling on Athaso, "... and welcome, new friend..." A brief introduction from Nalion clears up Loranna's questions, an she smiles to Athaso, saying "Then thank you for your help to our city, Serjo, and welcome to Ald Raathim; it's good to meet you."

Pleasnatries aside, Loranna gets down to business. "I've learned new information about Tel Dresori, information which requires us to act quickly." She recounts her conversation with Magister Zadion, explaining what is known on the Diodata and Korgaga clans of vampires, the new river around Tel Dresori, and the fierce rivalry between the two clans.

"If matters aren't brought to a stop now, we're looking at another war breaking out in Morrowind, a war between vampires," Loranna concludes, looking to her friends.

"As if we hadn't enough problems already with the war, rebuilding Ald Raathim and Goranthir...", Nalion muttered under his breath and cursed.

"It's almost as if the ravens already gather for their feast.", he added, loder this time. "It needs to be done, it seems. We cannot fight the Redorans and vampires looking for fresh food at the same time. Zadion said the Guild would help us?"

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 7 2006, 07:50 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 07:38 PM)

Loranna looks puzzled for a moment. "Warmth, you say?" she asks, frowning thoughtfully. "Hmm ...'

" ... We'll discuss this other person after the meeting; I think you'll find a number of questions answered," Loranna says, leading Anya up to the meeting room.
"Thank you everyone for coming," Loranna says, her eyes falling on Athaso, "... and welcome, new friend..." A brief introduction from Nalion clears up Loranna's questions, an she smiles to Athaso, saying "Then thank you for your help to our city, Serjo, and welcome to Ald Raathim; it's good to meet you."

Pleasnatries aside, Loranna gets down to business. "I've learned new information about Tel Dresori, information which requires us to act quickly." She recounts her conversation with Magister Zadion, explaining what is known on the Diodata and Korgari clans of vampires, the new river around Tel Dresori, and the fierce rivalry between the two clans.

"If matters aren't brought to a stop now, we're looking at another war breaking out in Morrowind, a war between vampires," Loranna concludes, looking to her friends.

"I dont like the sound of this at all," Erenius mutters. "If Time has taught us anything, its that one must not overextend themself. ANd thats what we are doing now. Overextending our sphere of influence to include things that, quite frankly, are irrelevant to our situation and serve only to bring us closer to a breaking point should another round of hostilities open between us and the Houses."

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 7 2006, 07:52 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 7 2006, 06:50 PM)

"I agree with Erenius," Reeds says, "Quite frankly, I don't see how we can handle both the Redoran and these vampires at once. It seems a pity that we cannot somehow get them to feed only on Redoran and Indoril, we would kill two birds with one stone."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 07:53 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 07:45 PM)

"The Guild will help us, yes," Loranna says. "Zadion and his enchanters are preparing items useful against vampires now; I don't know if they'll help directly though - facing vampires head on is a bit out of their field."

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 7 2006, 07:50 PM)

"We don't have much choice, and this does involves us directly," Loranna reminds Erenius. "Or do you think leaving a bunch of vampires an entire domain to call their own, and use as a staging ground for infiltrating other domains, is a good thing?"

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Feb 7 2006, 07:54 PM

Slyvos was both worried, and curious at the mention of these vampires; worried because of their proximity, and curious because, well, maybe he could get a few vials of their blood to study later on. Never know when that may be helpful.

"okay, from what you're saying... fire won't work in this case. Well, I guess I'll have to resort to other methods." he said with a bit of disappointment obvious in his voice at the mention of not getting to burn them to ash. water eh...

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 07:54 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 7 2006, 07:50 PM)

"If we overextend ourselves, then I'd rather fight the Redorans when battle weary than vampires in the end. The Redorans, how much a threat they are, are more predictable than a full out war between two vampire clans, both of which regarding us as cattle.", Nalion answered, staring at Erenius. "I would not deny your offer for help to protect the city while we deal with the vampires, Erenius."

Posted by: Aki Feb 7 2006, 07:56 PM

"Oh, joy," Reichi muttered. "Vampires warring, not to mention between Quarra-wannabes and walking torches of Vampires. If their bold move of the Diodata wasn't bad enough, theres no reason not to go kick some ass."

"Korgari don't scare me much. I'm hard to burn. Diodata seem like nothing too special. Like Quarra. With upgrades. They're still flamable. And weak to silver.." Reichi restrained a grin. It would be nice to finally be on the giving side of painful silver-wounds. Though silver probably wasn't as deadly to a Vampire as to a Werewolf. No matter.

Posted by: Osano Feb 7 2006, 08:00 PM

Athaso sat quietly, but he grew sterner once he realized what exacly this meeting was about. In his life of travelling a war between vampire clans was one of the things that he hasn't seen, and one of the things he least suspected to see; especially at a time like this. Curiousity, however, had gotten a hold over Athaso. He decided to help in any way he could, but he had a feeling he was getting in over his head.

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 7 2006, 08:02 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 07:54 PM)

"I too would rather do so," Erenius responds to Nalion. "But I shall respectfully turn down your suggestion that I remain behind. If this is truley as you say it is, then you'll need every able body you can find."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 08:10 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 7 2006, 08:02 PM)

"Aye; we will need everyone we can get," Loranna agrees.

"... There is word that the Redorans and Indoril are also sending people in to investigate Tel Dresori, and I suspect at least one professional hunter of vampires is heading there as well. This promises to be a messy encounter, but there's no way around it; we need to stop the Diodata before they set off a fireball in Morrowind, and we need to get any civilians still alive in Tel Dresori out, before they're all killed."

"I can provide some ebony weapons for those of you who may need them, and bound weapons sound like they'd be useful against these vampires," Loranna continues. "I'll also work on a batch of cure disease potions for you all, as well as healing potions, and like I said, the Guild is providing us with anti-vampire items. If people have any ideas on how we should go about this mission, now's the time to offer them."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 08:10 PM

QUOTE(Osano @ Feb 7 2006, 08:00 PM)

Nalion felt with the Dunmer, recognizing the confused, but intrigued look of the youth. He smiled encouragingly towards him, being reminded of the time he was in a similar situation, sitting among heroes.

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Feb 7 2006, 08:02 PM)

"Do as you wish, but refrain from doing nothing when there is danger.", Nalion said simply.

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 08:10 PM

"Your Grace, what would be the best approach to this? Go as an expeditionary force and try to ferret them out in daylight? Should we take troops as well, or just our company?"

These new vampires worry me, Shaka thought. I never fought the Quarra; everyone knew they were animals, killing machines. But these western vampires sound worse.

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 08:29 PM

Anya wore a dark look, becoming evermore confused if Kingston was actually one of the Korgari.

"I'll do what you need, Loranna, but I can't promise anything. I am going to go to Tel Dresori though."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 08:39 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Feb 7 2006, 08:29 PM)

Anya wore a dark look, becoming evermore confused if Kingston was actually one of the Korgari.

"I'll do what you need, Loranna, but I can't promise anything. I am going to go to Tel Dresori though."

Loranna frowns ever so slightly, her eyes telling Anya that they should talk after the meeting.

"I understand," she says softly, turning to look at the others.

"Magister Zadion spoke of vampirized children stalking him when he last went to Tel Dresori; I don't know what to tell any of you to expect when you get there. We no longer have any samples of the potion that cured Illidan of his vamparism, and I've yet to hear from the sorceress Sharlian ..."

"I trust to your judgements in doing what needs to be done," Loranna concludes, looking to Nalion and Slyvos in particular.

Posted by: syronj Feb 7 2006, 08:43 PM

"Maybe we should treat this like the Narsis slave raids," said Shaka. "Send in our stealthier people like Anya and Reichi as scouts, followed closely by a contingent of fighters, with a larger group of soldiers and healers following them."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 08:44 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 09:39 PM)

"If we attack during the daytime, expect many battles indoors," Zadion replied, stepping quietly into the room. One of Loranna's servants had fetched him from the Guildhouse. "If we attack at night, expect hell."

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 7 2006, 08:45 PM

"If we want to get the civilians out as easily as possible," Reeds said, "might I suggest a complement of divine intervention scrolls to take with us into the city, to hand out to them? Then we could have any support for the civilians safely away from where the fighting would be."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 08:47 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 08:39 PM)

"We will try our best.", Nalion said, then spoke to everyone. "You know what their weaknesses are. Get yourselves armed with silver weapons. A few fire scrolls would not hurt either for those who do not know magic that well. If you are religious, ask for a blessing at your temple, or a token."

QUOTE(stargate525 @ Feb 7 2006, 08:45 PM)

"I have written some intervention scrolls in the last days. I figured that the troops that may protect the land route some of you discovered might find them useful, to either retreat when attacked or to pass a message to Ald Raathim quickly. We can put them to good use here, too.", Nalion nodded towards Reeds.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 08:51 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 08:44 PM)

Loranna smiles a bit as her companions start coming up with plans, but her smile fades as she welcomes Zadion into the room.

"In Balmora, we opted for a dawn strike, right when the vampires were first settling in for the day," she says. "If you could tell us more about what you saw at Tel Dresori, dear ..."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Feb 7 2006, 08:53 PM

QUOTE

"I'm agreeing with Nalion on this; also... remember this. Don't rush in there, don't go alone, and do NOT kill civilians. Anyone happens to do any of these things, the blame for anything that goes wrong because of it, will be your's." He said in a rather flat tone, which he normally did not use.

Reminded him of when he used to have apprentices at one point... luckily those wretches are all either dead, or long gone, but he had to really be harsh with them to get them to listen to him, even when he was a lich.

"and... well, I suppose this goes without saying. Good luck, to all of us." sly says in a more worried voice now.

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 08:56 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 08:44 PM)

"I would certainly avoid fighting vampires at night like hell, Zadion.", Nalion answered. "Loranna's suggestion of striking at dawn sounds appealing. It may be the best choice. However, we might have to dodge vampire scout parties at night when approaching the city before dawn."

"If I might inquire, do you happen to know if the Guild Guide platform is still functional? If so, would bringing a Guild Guide from Ald Raathim there to bring in troops or get victims out a possibility?"

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 7 2006, 08:58 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 07:56 PM)

"Perhaps," Reeds asked Nalion, "We should attack not at dawn, but at dusk? The daylight would allow us to slip in under cover of sunlight and perhaps allow us to ambush them as they emerge for the night. The only problem with that is that we are limited to a certain window before we are fighting on their grounds."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 09:00 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 09:51 PM)

"If you have not been there before, Tel Dresori is not like Ald Raathim," Zadion said, addressing the group. "It is essentially a rural community, a very large plantation, on rugged semi-mountaineous terrain. It is arranged in a circle, with ring after ring of farmland separated by hedgerows, leading to the center where the village marketplace, Mages Guild, and Dres Minsero's castle is located. The farms are infested, but I could only go into the castle a little before I fled, there were so many bloodsuckers within. There is a Tribunal temple in the marketplace as well which appeared to be abandoned ... It is likely that the creatures cannot enter it."

Posted by: Nalion Feb 7 2006, 09:01 PM

QUOTE(stargate525 @ Feb 7 2006, 08:58 PM)

"Given the unpredictability of a battle - and the fact that nightfall is swift - I would avoid it as much as attacking at night.", Nalion answered.

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 09:00 PM)

"We might be able to use the Temple as a staging point as well as a refuge to shelter civilians and recover from injuries, then.", Nalion suggested. "The castle will be hard to take. The farms might be a bit easier. In need, we may just be able to burn down the house - when we are sure that no innocents are in there, of course."

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 7 2006, 09:02 PM

QUOTE(stargate525 @ Feb 7 2006, 08:58 PM)

"Dusk would be as bad...the critical hours would be during the times the Vampires would be at their element. A strike shortly before, or just after, noon would likely be best," Erenius interjects. "With Dusk, yes, we would have time, and sunlight, to help us. Yet one must not just consider the moment of the event, yet the hours after. And those hours, assuming the Magister's words are accurate, will be worse than any others."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 09:03 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Feb 7 2006, 09:56 PM)

"If I might inquire, do you happen to know if the Guild Guide platform is still functional? If so, would bringing a Guild Guide from Ald Raathim there to bring in troops or get victims out a possibility?"

"It is, but the Guildhouse itself is abandoned," Zadion replied. "I can bring in a Guild Guide so you can use it to escape. If you try to teleport with a Guide, you risk losing yourself forever."

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 09:04 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 09:00 PM)

"The Temple may be helpful then as a sanctuary; perhaps there are already people hiding there to avoid the vampires' wrath," Loranna opines. "We should look into the Temple when we get to Tel Dresori; there may be allies there."

Glancing back at Nalion and Slyvos, she adds "And by we, I mean you all, not myself included."

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 7 2006, 09:24 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 10:04 PM)

"Perhaps, but there was no one in the Temple when I went in there," Zadion frowned.

Posted by: Loranna Feb 7 2006, 09:31 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Feb 7 2006, 09:24 PM)

"Perhaps, but there was no one in the Temple when I went in there," Zadion frowned.

Loranna frowns as well. " ... We shall have to see," she says, looking to her friends.

"Those who wish to go, we'll make the trip tomorrow, early in the morning; take the rest of the day to prepare and rest well. A hard day awaits."

===

And with that, it's time to

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna

Posted by: Xyber02 Feb 7 2006, 09:31 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Feb 7 2006, 08:04 PM)

Anya winced at the thought of staying in a temple, "Well, I wouldn't count on much, depending on how long they've been there. All but the weakest of vampires can enter a temple long enough to ferret out mortals, and that's before enchanted equipment."