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

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 08:31 PM

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

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

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 in Ald Raathim, where she has just been given Goranthir's sword Kynarine by Kethiah, and searched Goranthir's recently-restored ship the Arkavina for the ring he was given back in the Sphere of Kyne, in the days of the Blue Twilight. Though she worries for her far-flung friends, she is in good spirits, having had her courage boosted by finding the ring. She is also, apparently, making arrangements for a brief trip to Skyrim.

Gram, on the other hand, has helped find the lovely Glacia, and is now scheming to get her back to Ald Raathim in one piece.

And finally, Dayla has, with Reichi's and Anya's help, opened her storeroom, and after a bit of trouble with the Masque of Clavicus Vile, she has since offered the two heroes a reward for their services, and has found a surprising amount of pleasure in telling them both about Bathogorgen history. [1] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 08:33 PM

Summary

Sivartus is currently in the sewers of Sentinel, looking for the shield called by Spellbreaker. He and the group from Ald Raathim, along with the help of a knight, are about to attack some bandits who have the shield. [2] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 27 2006, 08:35 PM

Summary

Lady Glacia Rysleire is on a riparian island south of Firsthold (vocabulary word of the day -- Riparian = of or on a river) called Bourrill, having been found by Reeds, Erenius, Isidor, and Gram. She is worried that her running away from her fiancee Count Terilite and her family is putting too many people in danger.[3] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 27 2006, 08:35 PM

Summary
Erenius in in Bourrill with Reeds, Gram, Isidor, and now Glacia, working with them to find a way to get Glacia off the islands and to Ald Raathim. [4] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 27 2006, 08:36 PM

Summary for Valerius: Valerius is runnin around somewhere in Ald Raathim.


Summary for Reeds: Reeds is in Bourill, hugging Glacia and triyng to fiure out how to get her back to Ald Raathim.... [5] 

[8] 
"Don't say that," Reeds said to her, "You have a right to happiness just like anyone else. None of this is your fault, if anyone is to blame it's me and Terilite. You'll be safe in Ald Raathim Glacia, nobody will be able to hurt you there..." [9] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 08:37 PM

Summary:
Athaso is in the sewers of Sentinel searching for a sacred shield by the name of Spellbreaker and is preparing an assault on bandits who supposedly are in posseesion of said shield. [10] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 08:38 PM

Summary

Nalion
Nalion, a male Breton mage, is on a mission in Black Marsh to recover Hist tree sap. For this purpose, his friends and he himself have ventured deeper into the Marsh, seeking to free an ancient Wamasu shrine from a desecration. He recently has fought skeletal Argonians, which indicate that there is at least one necromancer about.

Dana
Dana, a female Redguard healer and bard, is currently knee-deep in the more unpleasant byproducts of civilization, meaning, she is crawling through the sewers of Sentinel. She also is seeking the more unpleasant people that civilization sometimes produces, called bandits, who are said to be in possession of the Spellbreaker, an artifact that could be very helpful in the quest to defeat Mannimarco.

Gistral
Gistral got left out of the fun and is (still) rebuilding Ald Raathim. [11] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 27 2006, 08:39 PM

ooc: Isidor, male nord, is doing that:[12] 

[15] 
Isidor's brother, Ingmar, is helping to run his brother's tavern while Isidor's away.

Tsei's in a swamp in Black Marsh, after killing some zombie argonians. Brraaiinnss ... [16] 

Posted by: Aki Feb 27 2006, 08:42 PM

OOC Summary

Reichi Sari is n Cyrodiil, enjoying the hosiptality of whats left of Clan Bathogorgen, which amounts to relaxing in a 'guest room' (Formerly a room for turning mortals into naught but the mindless cattle...) and eating deer steaks. Yummy. [17] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 08:44 PM

[21] 

Sir Gancolm gives the Storm Atronach a wary glance, but nods to Shaka. "Very well," he says, walking onward.[22] 

[25] 
[26] 

[29] 
[30] 

[33] 

The doorway facing the party was not terribly impressive; it looked like any other door one might find down in the sewers - wooden, dank, and worse for wear. Sir Gancolm stares at the door for a moment, muttering "One would think these bandits would have at least gotten a stronger lock ..." under his breath, before sending his mailed foot hurtling through the air, breaking the door down in a single kick.

A yelp of surprise greets the party as Gancolm and the Atronach surge in, Gancolm bellowing "In the name of Arkay and King Lhotun throw down your weapons! Surrender and be shown mercy; resist and die!" The Atronach, meanwhile, throws a ball of lightning at someone withing, causing a scream to pierce everyone's eardrums.

A second later, Gancolm is engulfed in lightning, and he staggers, but he swiftly lurches forward, sword raised; by now the party can see three rather frightened men cowering in the far side of the room, one bearing a magnificient yellow shield ...[34] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 27 2006, 08:51 PM

Bourrill[35] 

[38] 

"Nonsense," Himble said, taking Glacia's hand. "You deserve your chance at happiness, same as anyone. Better you stay here, than go back to Firsthold and be miserable for the rest of your life ..."

"I couldn't bear it if you or Thrandra were hurt because I didn't want to marry Count Terilite," Glacia said, embracing the old fisherman. [39] 

Posted by: Shardie Feb 27 2006, 08:53 PM

Kragenmoor Mages Guild

the building had been restored months ago, the marble collums outside the stairs leading to the street before them were polished, and although a gaggle of Guards stood around, checking the commings and goings of the various people from the guild (you needed a pass in order to enter the city from the mages guild) it was like business had returned to normal. He stepped out of the guildhall, and looked up, the Citidel of Kragenmoor rose high above the city, a prominent landmark. The wide avenue which the Mages Guild was built on lead straight to the tower, and then to the Shadow Gate, the main gate out of town, and across the Kragen River, and it was along this road to the Citidel he walked. Arriving at the square before the Castle, he smiled as he saw the markets set up, selling goods to the people of the town. Trade was booming. A look to the Right, and the towers of the Slave Markets could be seen down the avenue heading to the West, a look to the left, and the Avenue headed to the Starlight Gate, which lead to Bodrum Mora. As the guards saw him approch, they snapped to attention, and opened the gates. As he climbed the stairs, the unsuspecting guards saluted instantly. As he reached the main office, he opened the door, and found the back of the chair facing him...

'Welcome back my Lord, I trust your journey was a good one?" Valdoon Thedas said politely
'Very much so. Wayrest has agreed to assist us, and I have recieved news that the "Heroes of Ald Raatham" will soon be leaving to defeat the King of Worms'
'Very interesting on that last point. I have understood that somthing has been going on, but I mearly suspected it was part of the preperations to defend Verannis Hall. Do you think we can exploit this oppotunity?'
'How? If we assist the King of Worms to destroy them, we will become the bane of the world! I believe we should send them a letter offering our support to rid the world of the King of Worms'
'But sir...'
'I believe they will never accept the offer'
'And if they do?'
'We send a few conscripts along for the ride. If they deny assisstance, or even if they accept assistance we are put in a better light.'
'Do you wish for me to draft up a letter?'
'Yes Thalas, do that. How is the other plan going?'
'Quite well, my Lord. The letter has fallen into the hands of your cousin already, and we are waiting to see what moves they will make'
'Very good... now get out of my chair!'
'Sorry sir' Thedas stood from Faryons chair and left, leaving Faryon to savour the lovely Wayrest Wine he picked up on his trip. [40] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 08:58 PM

[44] 

Sivartus immediately saw that he wasn't going to be able to cast any offensive spells with Spellbreaker being used against him. Instead, he stepped back away from the door and cast a Spell Absorption spell with a radius big enough to cover the group that hadn't entered the room. That should help when the Atronach starts throwing around spells in there. [45] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 09:03 PM

Athaso, after he realized what happened, charged into the room from behind the Astronach, paying special attention to avoid any lighning. He picked out the three men cowering in the corner of the room and leaped at the shield-barer with his sword drawn aiming for the man's neck. [46] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 09:06 PM

[50] 
Dana kept herself back, leaving room for the heavier armoured companions to fight. She stretched out her hand towards Sir Gancolm casting a strength fortifying spell on him.
"You're outnumbered!", Dana shouted to the bandits. "Give up!"
However, she felt that something wasn't right. Didn't Gancolm expect more traps? [51] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 09:14 PM

Inwardly, Shaka cursed himself for a fool. The Atronach's lightning might be being reflected upon the adventurers . . . .

Fists only, he ordered the golem. Shaka ran forward himself, trusting in the Spear's own reflection to help protect him, but trying for a physical attack rather than magickal.[52] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 09:22 PM

One of the cowering men unleashes a fireball at Dana, which causes Sivartus's Spell Absorption to kick in, and the only thing Dana feels is the rush of magicka filling her, restoring her reserves.

The second cowering man barely gets off a summoning spell, and a skeleton appears. The Atronach steps on it, crushing it underfoot on its way to punch somebody in the face.

The man bearing Spellbreaker throws up the shield, blocking Athaso's sword, Shaka's Spear, and Gancolm's magic-enhanced strike. The combined force of the three blows causes the man to crumple, his arm falling uselessly to his side - right as the Atronach punches his summoning companion full in the face, cracking his skull against the wall and leaving a bloody smear as the man slumps, his teeth falling out.

The bandit who threw the fireball cries "I surrender! They forced me to join their band! I'm their prisoner!" Sir Gancolm looks at the pleading man with a stony glance, before kneeling down to reach for the Spellbreaker.

"At long last ..." he says quietly ...
[53] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 09:26 PM

Shaka was ashamed somehow of the amount of force he had helped unleash on the men. The Atronach faded away, his time run out. [54] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 09:30 PM

[58] 
Dana stepped forwards toward the bandit who threw a fireball, her sword aiming at him. "Don't move.", she said in a warning tone. "We'll bind you and bring you to the temple of Arkay, where this incidence will be investigated."

"Yes, we found it. Well done. Sir Gancolm, your actions were remarkable. Shaka, Athaso, Sivartus, Osa, good team.", Dana smiled. "I think we all deserve a good bath now."

"Anyone able to bear that shield and bring it back to the temple? I fear I am not very suited to bear such an artifact." [59] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 09:36 PM

Athaso figured Sir Gancolm could bring the shield back so he sheathed his blade back into its scabbard and looked around the area a bit closer to see if anything, living or otherwise, was missed. "Is this really all? It seems like I was expecting more..." he continued in a quieter tone, "Then again, they were bandits in a sewer..." [60] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 09:37 PM

[64] 

Sivartus walked in as the fighting ceased, two of the men having given up, and one dead. Hearing the words come from the bandit who surrendered, he strolled over to him, and cast paralyze and silence on him.

"I don't want to hear it," he said angrily, throwing a quick glance to see if Dana was alright. He hadn't seen anyone else get attacked, except Gancolm, and he really didn't care about him.

"They didn't force you to shoot that fireball. Your lucky it was absorbed, because if she were burned right now, I doubt anyone would let you walk out of here alive." he said. Diverting his attention to the shield, he saw Gancolm picking it up.

"Is that it?" he asked. [65] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 09:45 PM

Sir Gancolm, kneeling by the fallen man, seems oblivious to the people around him, as she slings his own shield on his back and takes Spellbreaker for his own. Taking a moment to get the heft of the shield - and not seeming to hear the pained yelping of the man who had brone it a moment ago, he lets himself indulge in a small smile.

"As I have promised, Father, I have found the shield," he says, his eyes turning upward. "Soon the necromancer shall fall; I have given my vow and it shall be done." Rising to his feet, he begins walking out of the room, staggering a little.

The only conscious member of the remaining bandits just looks away from Sivartus, trying to be as inoffensive as possible.[66] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 09:52 PM

[70] 
Dana looked strangely after the knight, wondering about the words he just had spoken.
"Sir Gancolm!", Dana called and ran after him. "You're wounded and exhausted! Please, let me assist. Perhaps we can seek rest and healing at the temple? Do you need anything? You spoke of another necromancer... and your father?"
She gently touched his shoulder. The man clearly behaved strangely, so it would be better not to upset him. [71] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 09:53 PM

[75] 

Gram nods, saying "An understandable sentiment; however, unless the Dark Brotherhood thought to follow us here, they won't know where Himble lives, so I think he is safe. If not ... well, Ald Raathim is a port city, a good place as any for a fisherman to ply his trade." He nods again. "Your friend Thandra could come as well, if you think she would come."[76] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 27 2006, 10:01 PM

Bourrill[77] 

[80] 

"Bourrill was too small for Thrandra," Himble laughed. "That's why she up and went to Firsthold. If she don't jump at the chance to see more of the world, then I'm a sload ... But as for me, I don't want to go nowhere else. This is my home. And as long as no one followed you here, it'll stay my home."

"Of course, this means we'll have to go back to my family's house to see Thrandra," Glacia grimaced. "And if you fought the Dark Brotherhood there before, there will be more there now, and they'll be expecting trouble."[81] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 10:02 PM

[85] 

"Alright," he said, catching a glimpse of Dana rushing to Gancolm's aid out of the corner of his eye. "Let's tie these three up." [86] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 10:03 PM

[90] 

Shaka shook his head. Gancolm seemed driven. Was this what crusaders were like?

He took pity on one of the bandits and found most of his teeth, working with him to hold them in place while he cast a healing spell to restore him. I guess I'm soft, Shaka thought, but he felt he had used overkill on the men. The bandit should be able to keep his teeth now . . . .

After healing the bandits as best they could and binding them, the group followed Dana.[91] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 10:06 PM

[95] 
Athaso followed behind Sir Gancolm with the others, "Hey, are you feeling okay?" he said while putting a hand on the man's shoulder, "You can barely walk straight, why don't you let me carry that shield?" [96] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 10:08 PM

[100] 

Sil Gancolm shrugs Dana's hand off. "I am fine; your spell from before has healed my wounds," he says, still moving forward. "I need no rest now; the spirit of my father has waited long enough to be avenged, and now he shall be. The necromancer who took his life shall know the justice of Arkay, brought by my sword."[101] 

[104] 
[105] 

[108] 

The bandit Shaka heals comes to, now with a bit of a gap between his front teeth. He looks up, sees Sivartus already breaking out the rope, and sighs "I knew we shoulda just taken the damn shield and ran ... loyalty gets ya nowhere these days, I tell ya."
[109] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 10:11 PM

[113] 

"I am fine," Sir Gancolm says brusquely to Athaso. "I do not require assistance in carrying the Spellbreaker, thank you."

Resolutely, he keeps marching onward, not looking back at anyone.[114] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 27 2006, 10:11 PM

[118] 
"Glacia," Reeds laughed a bit at her wariness, "Rule number one about Ald Raathim and its inhaitants, trouble are our middle names."

"So back to Firsthold it is then?" Reeds asked his friends. [119] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 10:14 PM

[123] 

Gram laughs. "Tis a city beset by war right now, yet it's as lively a city as any you could hope to find. Thrandra will like it there, I'm sure, and good day and good fishing to you Himble; next time I am in Firsthold I shall come by the harbor and look for you and your catch."

Turning to Reeds, Gram says "Aye, back to Firsthold. Let us bring this matter to a swift conclusion."[124] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 10:15 PM

[128] [129] 

[132] 
"He sure is acting strange," Athaso said quietly under his breath. He continued walking in step behind Sir Gancolm, now thinking to himself in silence.
What kind of necromancer would we be facing if he killed this man's father? I just want to get out of these sewers... [133] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 10:15 PM

Sentinel, the sewers[134] 

[137] 
"I know quite well that you are not fine and just playing 'tough guy'.", Dana thought. [i]"Blind with the will to avenge, are we?"
Aloud instead, her voice and words were different.
"We have seen your strength when we discovered the remains of those bandits and skeletons back in that other tunnel, Sir Gancolm. However, if the Necromancer was so strong that he could defeat your father, caution and cunning is needed alongside your strength and skill. Your father looks down on you with pride, I am sure. But would he want you to charge blindly into battle and taking unnecessary risks?"

Dana glanced at her companions, indicating that they should be careful now, and think about their next words. [138] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 27 2006, 10:22 PM

Bourrall[139] 

[142] 

Quilge was right where they left him, napping sitting up on his skiff, which rocked gently in the river. As they approached him, he got lazily to his feet.

"Seen what you need to see? Taken in all the sights?" the fisherman smiled, on seeing Glacia. "Oh, I see you grabbed a souvenir."

As the now five passengers got aboard the boat, Quilge pushed off. It would be morning before they returned to Firsthold, and whatever awaited them there ...[143] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 10:24 PM

[147] [148] 

[151] 

Sivartus acknowledged Dana's glance with a nod of his head, as he gathered up the prisoners, making them walk infront of him. Gancolm had a crazed look in his eye, like he would rather die than not avenge his father before he gave up the shield. I wonder where we are going now, he thought, towards the Temple or the necromancer. [152] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 10:29 PM

[156] 

Shaka pulled Dana aside, out of Gancolm's hearing. "I don't like this, Dana. He's on a personal crusade against some necromancer, not Mannimarco. I knew when I saw the slaughtered bandits that Gancolm was wrapped too tightly. . . . Should we take back the Spellbreaker?"

Shaka couldn't believe he had said this, but his instincts were screaming at him that Gancolm might make their whole mission to Sentinel fail.[157] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 10:38 PM

[161] 

Sir Gancolm pauses a moment, but shakes his head. " ... Your concern is touching, my Lady, but has not Arkay Himself seen to it that the blessed Spellbreaker be sent to aid the cause of justice? I have spent the past twelve years of my life preparing, strengthening my body and my will, honing my swordsmanship and my magic. All that remained was a way to stop the vile curses of my father's murderer, and now by the grace of the gods, I have that. Justice shall be done and my father's spirit shall finally be put at rest."[162] 

[165] 

Sir Gancolm's eyes narrow; evidentally his hearing was as good as Shaka's.

"So, I see," he says ominously. "You have no concern for justice to be done ..." He raises the shield while his hand closes around the hilt of his sword.

"I had thought you allies; now I see differently. We shall part ways here and now. Try to stop me and you shall suffer the fate of all those who obstruct rightousness," Sir Gancolm says in clipped tones, backing away fromthe party to give himself room to move.[166] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 10:42 PM

[170] [171] 

[174] 
Dana gave Shaka a stare that could kill. "Thank you very much for your help, Shaka...", she hissed, freeing herself from Shaka's touch with a yank of her shoulder.
"Sir Gancolm, we wanted to offer you our help! ... I wanted to help you. I've seen too many horrors the undead and those who call upon them have brought on people that I think the necromancers must be brought down..."
[175] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 10:48 PM

[179] 
"Sir Gancolm don't be stupid! We're not your enemies! We need Spellbreaker as well, we just don't want you, or anyone else to die down here for it," Athaso said trying to sound convincing. In all honesty, he just wanted to get the sacred shield and get out of the sewers, the smell was beginning to irritate him. Look at him, Athaso. he's quite mad with vengeance. He isn't going to give up the shield. You'll have to take it from him.

Athaso took a step towards Gancolm, outstretched his arm and said in a darker-than-normal tone, "The shield, please." [180] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 10:49 PM

[184] 

"Sir Gancolm, I sincerely apologize if I have offended. Could you tell us more about the necromancer who killed your father? Maybe we can work together, not in conflict. . . ."

Shaka wasn't about to kill a knight of Arkay, but their mission was too vital to be allowed to fail. And now Gancolm had Spellbreaker. They would be lucky to stop him physically without losing someone.[185] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 10:51 PM

[189] 

"Your not going anywhere with that shield," Sivartus said, preparing himself incase it got ugly. "We, are taking it back to the temple. You do not need the shield to avenge you father, let us have it, and we can go our seperate ways." [190] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 10:59 PM

[194] 

Sir Gancolm frowns ...[195] 

[198] 

... and draws his sword, raising it overhead.[199] 

[202] 

"It is too late to work together, Argonian," Sir Gancolm replies in clipped tones, fire starting to dance around the edge of his sword. "You have shown me your true colors ..."[203] 

[206] 

... yet, when Sir Gancolm looks in Dana's eyes, his sword lowers slightly.

" ... You, my Lady, I see speak with a true heart," he says. "I promise youon my honor as a knight, no harm shall befall you this day ..."

His eyes narrow. "But your companions have declared their intentions, and I have given my vow. They will not stop me from carrying out my mission." His sword raises into position once more. "Stand aside my Lady," he says, his eyes tracking Shaka, Sivartus, and Athaso. [207] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 11:12 PM

[211] [212] 

[215] 
"Men!", shouted Dana in frustration, throwing her hands in the air. "Do you always have to think with the tips of your swords? We're all on the same side here!"[216] 

[219] 
"You guys put your weapons back where they belong. Now.", she snapped at her companions. "I'll not fight here. Not when there's still necromancers and Mannimarco outside."

"Neither headless storming into danger is wise here...", she said with a little calmer voice now, looking at Gancolm. "...nor is taking Spellbreaker from a friend by force." With that, she looked sternly at her companions.

"Why don't we all just try and sort this out so that we find a solution that benefits all of us? Where is the necromancer you seek, Sir Gancolm? As I said, I would offer my help." [220] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 27 2006, 11:15 PM

[224] 

"By all means," said Shaka, "If we can work together against this lesser necromancer so that we can later fight Mannimarco . . . ."

A part of Shaka's mind was racing, thinking of how to use an Atronach to wrest the shield from the knight's grasp so that he could paralyze him with the Lover's Kiss spell.[225] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 27 2006, 11:18 PM

[229] 

"Alright," Sivartus said calmly, deciding to take Dana's approach "Who's this necromancer?" [230] 

Posted by: Osano Feb 27 2006, 11:20 PM

"Well let's atleast rest for a moment before we go off killing necromancers with our new fancy shield," Athaso exclaimed, clearly irritated. He eyed Sir Gancolm. "If we must fight this necromancer, let's know what we're facing first, eh? Gancolm? What do you know about this foe that you seek?" [231] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 27 2006, 11:38 PM

Sir Gancolm looks first to Shaka, then to Sivartus, then to Athaso, the flames on his sword still flickering. For a long moment, nothing happens ...

... and then the flames die, and he lowers his swrod, looking to Dana with eyes that now betray fatigue.

" ... My Lady, you are right," he says quietly. "If the Temple sent you four to aid me in my quest, then we are all on the same side, and my sword should not be raised against you." However, he then closes his eyes, and shakes his head.

"But I do not see trust in your companions' eyes. I see anger and irratibility, the false sincerity of the supposedly worldly humoring the pious. I cannot place my trust in these men; with the rise of Mannimarco, necromancers all over Tamriel grow in power, and their magics were insidious to begin with."

"No; my quest was ever meant for I and I alone to bear. I cannot ask you to involve yourselves," he says, turning and sheathing his sword. "I will return to the Temple once my quest is completed; go and wait for me there."

With that, he walks away, his shoulders squared, his pace brisk and even.[232] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 27 2006, 11:47 PM

[236] 
"Okay, you guys don't have to bleed today. You go peacefully back to the temple and get a bath. I'm not kidding and if you're not going to follow my words, I'll be getting angry.", Dana said in frustration, but in a tone that clearly told that she meant what she said.
"I'm going after Gancolm to see that he makes it out alive of this. He doesn't seem to trust any of you, so I seem to be an exception. You showing up would probably only bring out that sword of his. If you don't trust him, then trust me for once, please. I'll come back with Gancolm and the Spellbreaker."
With no further words, she ran after Gancolm.[237] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 12:04 AM

[241] 

Gancolm is splashing through the scuzzy water of the sewers, hurrying away from the party. By the time Dana catches up with him though, he has stumbled, and fallen face first into the water.

He slowly gets to his knees when Dana reaches him, wiping refuse from his face.
[242] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 28 2006, 12:10 AM

[246] 
"You're as stubborn as them, you know?", she said, pulling out a linen cloth from her bag. With swift motions, she wiped away the grease and dirt, then held the cloth with two sleek fingers away from her and threw it into the sewer, grimacing.
Then, Dana knelt down and placed her hands over Gancolms knees, incanting a healing spell. Again, a blue light spread forth from her fingers and began seeping into the knight. [247] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 12:14 AM

[251] 

Gancolm attempts to wave Dana off. "My duty ... my vow," he says, trying to get to his feet. Despite Dana's healing spell, the knight doesn't look to be getting any better though - he bears no obivous wound, yet the fatigue that showed in his eyes before does not dispitate.

"I must fulfill my vow ... before the necromancers become too strong ..." he continues, not noticing he hasn't gotten to his feet yet. "Must avenge my father ..."[252] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 28 2006, 12:20 AM

[256] 

"Good luck," he said, as she ran off after Gancolm.

"Well, looks like we are heading back to the temple," he said, turning to the remaining members of the group. He gathered up the prisoners again and headed down the tunnels. It took him a few hours to get out of the sewers, but he finally made it back to where they had started.

Using levitate to get out of the grate, he and the prisoners made their down the streets of Sentinel towards the Temple. They got a few curious stares from the people they passed, but nothing more.

After finally making it to the Temple, he looked up and sighed. Great, now I have to explain that the Temple's knight went mad in the sewers, he thought. He walked the prisoners up the steps and into the Temple, trying to think of what he would say to Father Trelan. [257] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 28 2006, 12:21 AM

[261] 
"You don't go anywhere in this condition.", Dana said softly, casting another spell, this time trying to restore fatigue. "Take it slowly. We're two now, and we can support each other. Rest a bit, gather your strength. You will not defeat the necromancer in your condition. A knight should know this."
Dana pointed to a slightly elevated area of the sewers nearby where they could sit for a moment, at least a little bit out of the dirt. Which wasn't much, but better than kneeling in it.
"You can tell me about the necromancer then..." [262] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 02:29 AM

Morrowind

Time was growing short, Loranna sensed. Her friends, now scattered to the four corners of Tamriel, searching for the tools needed to combat Mannimarco; herself, now well into the seventh month of her pregnancy, watching her husband and her city recover from the scars that they both still bore and yet wondering how deep lie the scars she cannot see ...

There was ever a thousand things that needed doing and soon she'd not be up for doing any of them; once her friends returned and Mannimarco hopefully foiled, she would have to turn the majority of her duties over to others, lest she suffer as Kethiah did. She understood this and both accepted and resented it ...

But before that time came, there was still one matter she wished to check upon, one nagging question she had been forced to put aside in the effort to keep upwith the world. So Loranna took time from her duties to travel to the Temple of Healers, where Dres Minsero had been left after the horrific events of Tel Dresori. Nine and Three willing, she would arrive to hear good news, but no matter what, she owed it to Minsero to check in on him.[263] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 02:36 AM

The Temple of Healers[264] 

[267] 

The healers’ asylum was a clean, humane place for housing the citizens of Ald Raathim who had been kissed by Sheogorath over the years. That did not make it quiet. Throughout the halls echoed screams and laughter, snatches of songs, babbling …

Egalius Soccitus led Loranna through, quietly nodding to the workers who brought the inmates their food and tried to comfort them to little avail.

Finally, they arrived at the cell where Dres Minsero lived.

Magister Zadion was in there with Minsero, who was rocking back and forth on his bed.

“I don’t understand,” the Dres nobleman was saying, his eyes dark and haunted. “Who are you? Where is this place? I don’t understand, I don’t understand.”

“Loranna,” Zadion said, standing up quickly.

“Who are you?” Minsero asked plaintively.[268] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 02:51 AM

[272] 

Egalius steps back, letting Loranna walk toward the hapless noble and the young Magister; even with the Duchess's back to him though he can well imagine her expression right now. Her eyes were haunting like that, especially with those tearstreaks.

The pudgy Imperial figits a bit; he always felt uncomfortable in here with the unfortunates who lost their minds. It was one of the few things that could make his infamous mouth stay silent, and they didn't allow alcohol in here either.

Loranna, meanwhile, looks at Dres Minsero for a moment with wounded eyes, before looking to Zadion. Her lips part as she tried to think of something to say to both of them, before she shakes her head and sits down beside Dres Minsero's bed, her voice gentle.

"My lord, it's me, Loranna," she says, letting her lips curl into a reassuring smile. "Dres Jazbet's wife."

Husband, if you're near - lend me your charm, your easy way with people, Loranna prays. Goddess, beloved goddess ... She let the second prayer trail off, emotion surging through her, but Dibella would know what Loranna meant to ask, she was sure.[273] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 02:58 AM

The Temple of Healers, Ald Raathim[274] 

[277] 

"You know Dres Loranna," Zadion said to Minsero. "Remember, you recommended me to her?"

"I don't know who you are," Minsero shook his head violently. "I DON'T KNOW WHO YOU ARE!"

There was a soft, rose-colored light that leapt from Egalius's hands to Dres Minsero, calming him down, but he continued to mutter, "Who are you? Who are you? Who are you? Who are you?"

“Magister Zadion visits Sera Dres Minsero every day, sometimes twice a day,” Egalius Soccutus said to Loranna, his voice low. “And Minsero still doesn't know who he is, or what he's doing here ... Magister Zadion actually asked me today if I knew of any asylums in Summerset which would treat him well, and might know of a cure ...”[278] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 03:16 AM

[282] 

Goddess ... Loranna feels her eyes grow moist, the guilt she first felt when her friends came back from Tel Dresori returning full force. Damn Ashana and the Diodata for doing this to a good man, damnit ...

She looks down at Dres Minsero, and the confusion and fear move her to say "I'm a friend ...", wanting for a moment nothing more than to relieve Minsero's suffering. Her tears fall onto the confused noble, as she instinctively uses her magic and healer's art to make Minsero more comfortable, aided by Egalius's magic.

If only she could give him back one memory, one shining moment of something beautiful and good in Minsero's life to keep the shadows at bay, but she didn't know Minsero that intimately. She looks over to Zadion, her eyes pleading, her tearstreaks catching the light in the room and suffusing her face with an ethereal sorrow and longing.[283] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 03:21 AM

The Temple of Healers, Ald Raathim[284] 

[287] 

Zadion looked back at Loranna, with equally sorrowful eyes. In fact, Loranna could see with Zadion and Minsero next to one another, with eyes of desperation, how similar the Altmer and the Dunmer looked. Their brows and the shape of their eyes were identical, even if their eye colors were not.

"Egalius says they may be able to help him in Artaeum," Zadion said quietly. "That is the only hope ... that, or time ..."[288] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 03:35 AM

[292] 

Loranna reaches out her hands, one to Zadion, one to Minsero.

"Time, and the support of loved ones," she says, smiling softly. "And the wisdom of the Psijjics."

It seemed so inadequate to say, after a second's reflection; the Golden Road did not easily give up its hold on someone, as she herself knew all too well. But there was no way she could look into both mer's eyes and not offer something, anything ...

Standing up, she moves to embrace Zadion, saying "My prayers will be with you both dear."[293] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 03:41 AM

The Temple of the Healers, Ald Raathim[294] 

[297] 

"I think he will like it in Summerset," Zadion smiled through tears. "He did like it years ago, when he met a young Altmer sorceress there, my mother ... It will not be a strange place to him, no more than here, when he recovers."[298] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 03:53 AM

[302] 

Loranna smiles herself, trying to imagine a younger Dres Minsero, in Summerset - and now, far after she should have thought of it, Loranna realizes part of Dres Minsero's willingness to back her husband Jazbet, and herself. He, himself, was not unfamiliar with challenging the traditions of his people in his own way.

"I'll be waiting to see him again when he is himself again," Loranna promises. "He has ever been welcome in Ald Raathim - as are you, dear."[303] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 04:10 AM

The Temple of Healers, Ald Raathim[304] 

[307] 

"By Stendarr's blessing, that will be soon," said Egalius Soccitus, eager to move on, and get a drink.
[308] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 04:13 AM

[312] 

Loranna glances over at Egalius, knowing him well enough from their time in the healer's tents together to guess what he's thinking.

"I'll let you know when the others get back, Zadion, so we can take care of the other business," Loranna promises. "Nine and Three bless you both."

Turning to Egalius, she says "Shall we, Master Healer?" with arched eyebrows.
[313] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 07:26 AM

[317] 

Subdued after the conflict with Sir Gancolm, Shaka followed the others back to the Temple. I have some apologies to make to Dana and Gancolm, he thought. Shaka had been too quick to give up on the knight. [318] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 02:33 PM

*...Summary: Osa has been silently travelling with the group, and after the absolutely bizarre way that Gancolm and Shaka had recovered the Spellbreaker, stood in mostly quiet awe, even during the groups not-so-trusting speech towards Gancolm...one thing Osa had definitely learned was this: sewers stink...bad...and Dana seemed to be a better leader then she gave herself credit for, although on the entire way back all she could think was: "Glad thats over...because I intend to bathe for at least two days"*



*...Upon making it back into the Temple she removes the Armor she had borrowed and places it back upon the pile, which gets more then a few strange looks from the priests that happen to be there, finally after feeling foolish for quite a time a priest steps forward and politely says "Err, I'll take that...it needs to be taken to the Armorers"...Osa knew he was just being nice as the stench of the sewers lingered long after the Mythril Vest had left the room...finally a few of the younger Priestesses whisked Osa off for a proper cleaning, which she didnt resist in the least...even now she sits submerged in the scented water of a much needed bath...* [319] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 02:59 PM

"Like the princess said -- Dana, I mean - - We might as well clean up before talking to the father," said Shaka. He noted Osa's example and headed for the baths.

Shaka felt more civilized after a long soak. Dressed again but unarmored, he borrowed a brush and more water from the Temple and cleaned the muck from his armor and weapons.

I feel guilty about being able to do this when Dana and Gancolm are still out in the field, thought the battlemage. But it would be less distracting for the priest at their next meeting if he were unable to smell them from yards away.

Despite his flippant words, Shaka respected the Ra'Gada woman for both her bardic and fighting skills. It distressed him that he seemed to always get off on the wrong foot with Dana.

And somehow she ended up as the leader of this outfit, he thought. It was impressive to see how far she had come from her Tel Dresori traumas.[320] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Feb 28 2006, 03:17 PM

Vaan's Summary:

Vaan was in a bath, having just cut his hair (http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/0loweo/Vvardenfell_Vogue_by_TierraL1.jpg).

Before that, he had been trudging through the finest Sewers in Tamriel...which were utterly disgusting, I might add. His Armour had needed some pretty heavy duty cleaning, especially the cloth parts.

"For as Long as I live" he thought, "I NEVER want to do that again!"

His mind turned to Dana and Lord Gancolm, and he sighed. why must people complicate things so? [321] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 03:22 PM

Hesek, known to the warmbloods as Slashes-With-Claws, has returned to Argonia on a quest to retrieve some of the sacred Hist sap. The sap is needed to counter the powers of a lich. In exchange he and others are to cleanse the shrine dedicated to the Wamasus. He has been given a spear for the quest; the shaft is Hist wood, the head the carved tooth of the Wamasus. He draws near to the shrine.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v201/Grikok/MW%20Screen%20Shots/SlasesWithWamasusSpear.jpg [322] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 03:40 PM

OOC: Summary
Dar'Tessir is in the Black Marsh and is a thoroughly upset cat, though it is getting better now that the rain has stopped. [323] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 03:40 PM

Sentinel

The prisoners the party brought back were taken into custody by the Knights of the Circle, whereupon they were turned over to the King's guards to answer for their crimes against the city. Knight Captain Jartod was heard to remark later to Father Trelan "They aren't making raiders like they used to ..."

As soon as the party are bathed and made presentable, word is sent to them that Father Trelan and Knight Captain Jartod wish to speak to them, at once.[324] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Feb 28 2006, 04:03 PM

[328] 

Vaan made his way to the temple, in order to meet with Father Tralen and his Captain. He stopped to look at the mirror on his way out, just to check that his new hairdo was OK.

Once inside the Temple foyer, he sat and waited for the Father, captain, and the rest of the party to come. [329] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 04:12 PM

Black Marsh

The Argonian guides lead the party further into the swamp, leaving the fallen skeletons behind. Gradually, people will notice that the insects that constantly fly back and forth are no longer buzzing through the air, and that the ever-present sounds of other creatures dies down. Only the misting rain remains, and even that feels ... wrong, somehow.

Ahead, looming over the ferns and small trees, a large stone tower can be seen, and the spear in Hesek's hands throbs slightly with power. The Argonian guides stop and turn to Hesek, speaking in Hist.

"Beyond this point, we will not go. Only the bearer of the spear and his companions may venture forth." [330] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 04:16 PM

[334] 
"Oh good," Tsei hissed. "We get to go into the Necromancer's desserted tower without guides ..." [335] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 04:16 PM

[339] 

Eventually, much cleaner and better-smelling, the party finds themselves facing the placid-looking Father and the pacing Knight Captain, who raises an eyebrow at Vaan and says "Nice haircut."

"We are glad to see that you have managed to return safely ..." Father Tralen says, his tone betraying a hint of worry.

" ... but we were wondering, where the bloody hell is the Spellbreaker?" Knight Captain Jartod asks bluntly. "And my knight and your fair bardic friend, too?"[340] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 04:18 PM

[344] 

In hist, "Be well, we will be back." he says to the guides.

Hesek looks upon the tower. He feels the power of the spear; his tail swishes nervously in response. He holds the spear a little higher and turns to the others.

"The guides will not follow, we must go on without them." he says in Tamrilic.

He walks towards the tower, the spells of reflect and shield coming to his mind. [345] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 04:22 PM

[349] 

"Impressive the Argonians could find and transport the stone here," Dar'Tessir said mostly to himself, the tower and thought of the coming battle distracting him from his discomfort.[350] 

[353] [354] 

[357] 

First they threaten to kill Dar'Tessir and now they abandon us at the most critical point, some guides. But he follows Slashes-With-Claws and thinks of a good invisibility spell, just in case. [358] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Feb 28 2006, 04:34 PM

[362] 

"Thankyou Father" Smiled Vaan. "It took much time, effort, and Telvanni magick to get it this way!"

Upon hearing the captains concern, Vaan frowned, and began to reply:

"Well, we managed to locate the shield with Sir Gancolm. He took the shield, but instead of coming with us back to the temple, he proceeded into the sewers, muttering something about Veangance. It seems that the Necromancer had killed his Father, or something like that."

Vaan paused, and thought awhile before proceeding with this more sensitive part of the story:

"When we tried to tell him that we needed the shield, he ignored us. When several members attempted to get the shield off of him, or dissuade him from his personal crusade, he turned on us all, save for Dana. Thankfully, Dana calmed him, and in order to get the shield back, went with him on his quest."

"It seemed like the only way I'm afraid, she made the rest of us go back. We didn't want to kill a Knight of Arkay, afterall. Oh, I do wish he had better priorities."

Vaan sighed. [363] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 04:39 PM

"He killed most of the bandits single-handedly, but we found the remains in a condition suggesting that Sir Gancolm is driven by inner demons; figuratively speaking. We helped him defeat the last three bandits, who had the Spellbreaker with them; but then he announced that he would now avenge his father's death and commandeered the shield. Sir Gancolm is now on a personal quest against a necromancer, but not Mannimarco. I am sorry to speak so bluntly, Father, Captain."

"Dana and he have a rapport; she has gone with him, promising to return with the Spellbreaker." [364] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 04:41 PM

[368] 

"We are not needed to guide you anymore, marshsister," one of the guides replies to Tsei, in Hist. "From this point on, the Wamasaii shall guide you. May your claws remain sharp, marshsister."[369] 

[372] 

"We did not," one of the guides says to Dar'Tessir in Tamrielic.

The spear seems almost to pull Hesek along, guiding him along the faint path leading to the tower. As he and the others go forward, they pass stone statues, encroached upon by the flora of the swamp, depicting fearsome-looking dragonlike beings. Distressingly, the statues' eyes seem to follow the party as they walk along the path.

A little further, and the sounds of mannish voices swearing can be heard, and the ferns and other plants abruptly stop, looking less like they were cleared away and more like they were simply withered into nothingness. Before the group, the full temple can now be seen, the stone statues standing along either side of a stone walkway leading to a simple alter, beyond which the tower rises straight overhead.

Though the structure of the shrine seems primitive, the sheer scope imparts a grandeur that the design would otherwise lack, for the alter was obviously not built for human or Argonian-sized beings, and the stone walkway is far wider than any would have thought, and the tower, now seen up close, rises so high into the air that one is forced to wonder how it couldn't be seen from much farther off, even with the ever-present rain and thick growth of plants. And the statues, now that the party can see them in their full glory ... for a moment, you could easily believe that these weren't statues, but true Wamasaii guarding the walkway, glaring down at the puny beings scurrying below their massive forms with draconian forebearance.

Dwarfed by the statues and the alter, armored figures walk to and fro, nervously patrolling the shrine. Argonian skeletons carry heavy loads away from the tower into the as-yet unseen reaches of the swamp.[373] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 04:47 PM

[377] 
[378] 

[381] 

Jartod's brows draw together, darkening his counterance. "... So what you are saying is," he says in an even tone, "that my best knight abandoned his mission to pursue a personal agenda? And that he turned on you all?" The Knight Captain's eyes glowered unsettlingly.

Father Tralen shakes his head. "Sir Gancolm has always been a quiet, serious young man," he says, his voice disbelieving, "but I find it hard to believe that he would act in this manner ... tell me, was there anything unusual in the way he acted when you met him? There must be some explanation ..." [382] 

Posted by: vaanic~one Feb 28 2006, 04:53 PM

[386] 

"Yes, we were quite shocked too." Replied Vaan.

"When we first met Gancolm, he was wounded. When he left after retrieving the Shield, his voice seemed....as if he were Mezmerised, as if the thoughts were being put into his mouth forcefully, he was repeating what he would do next over and over. He was very tired, too."

Vaan shrugged, "That's all I can say, or remember" [387] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 04:53 PM

[391] 

Hesek looked upon the massive tower in awe. His head tipped back, looking towards the top. The spear felt almost alive in his hands. Seeing the patrolling skeletons he ducked low and hid amongst what little vegetation remained alive. He hid unmoving for a moment, watching them. Hesek then tried to sneak closer, trying to see what the skeletons were carrying. His keen predator eye sight scanned the area.

He whispered back at the others, "There are enemies about. They must be dealt with." [392] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 04:58 PM

Shaka added: "The word I would use is 'driven'. He had been seriously wounded by not only bandits but traps, which we then fought through as well; yet he vowed that nothing would keep him from retrieving the Spellbreaker."

"Later he accused us of humoring him, one of the faithful; and if Dana hadn't been there, it would have come to an ugly fight. . . . Was his father's death the reason he became a Circle Knight? Or has he concealed this from you?" [393] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 04:59 PM

[397] 

"Dar'Tessir agrees. He will try to get a better idea of the opposition." With that he cast an invisibility spell on himself and moved as quickly and quietly as he could. He stayed outside the shrine but got closer and looked around from different angles and was soon running quickly back to his hiding place near Slashes, making it just in time for the spell to ware off and report what he saw.[398] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 28 2006, 05:34 PM

[402] 

"Like they said," Sivartus said, motioning to Shaka and Vaan, "He was hurt when we found him, leaning against a wall. After Dana healed him, we went with him to take back the shield from a group of bandits."

"After the fight, when he saw the shield," he said, thinking back to the look in Gancolm's eyes, "he looked like he had found the thing that would complete his life. He started mumbling about how he would avenge his father, and that the necromancer who killed him would die by his sword. It seems he had his own reasons for finding the shield."

Sivartus thought carefully about how to phrase his next words, and continued.

"We tried to take the shield from him, to bring it back here, but he wouldn't let anyone get near him. He overhead us talking about how to take it back, and got hostile. He said we couldn't be trusted, but Dana was left out of that. She had a way with him, and he let her come with him, where ever they went. She demanded we not follow, so we came back here." [403] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 05:52 PM

Sentinel - Temple of Arkay

Father Tralen and Knight Captain Jartod look at one another, neither speaking but both seeming to know exactly what the other is thinking.

" ... Thank you gentlemen, for your efforts," Knight Captin Jartod says. "Rest assured, we will bring Dana back safely to you - and the Spellbreaker."

"We will speak to Sir Gancolm about his ... other goals when we find them," Father Tralen says, frowning thoughtfully. "I suspect there is something more going on here than meets the eye, but we must find Sir Gancolm before we can say what that might be."

"And how best to deal with it - but it will be dealt with," Jartod says, nodding solemnly.

"Please, feel free to stay at the Temple while this matter is being resolved," Father Tralen offers.[404] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 05:56 PM

"Thank you both.  It's a relief to us that we weren't imagining Sir Gancolm to be not himself  .  .  . though still a tragic situation.  Father, is there a way we can help, or should we just wait?" [405] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 06:11 PM

[409] 


*...after quite a lengthy scrub of herself (and burning the clothes she had previously worn) and her personal belongings (save four of the five Scrolls she had been carrying, which were utterly ruined in the Sewers) she packs up the single Scroll she has left and throws her Flask over her free shoulder...after being told of a meeting (rather late I might add), she finally meets up with the group, Father Tralen and the Knight Captain Jartod...*

"Sorry about being late" Osa begins "What'd I miss?" [410] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 06:16 PM

[414] 

In low tones, Shaka summarizes the discussion, including that Sir Gancolm is well-regarded, and was not himself during the bandit clearance; and concludes that they are guests of the Temple of Arkay for the time being. "Maybe you'd like to check their library, or talk to some priests, Osa."[415] 

Posted by: Sivartus Feb 28 2006, 06:19 PM

[419] 

"I am sure Dana can handle herself," Sivartus said, hearing the, 'We will rescue her', in the knight's tone. "Please inform us when she returns..."[420] 

[423] 

"... and thank you for the accomodations," Sivartus said, turning to Father Tralen. "I have never had the chance to stay in a temple." [424] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 06:19 PM

[428] 


*...Osa takes a second before replying...*

"Hmm...I did want to take a closer look at what they might have in there, maybe I'll do that" she says as she turns to leave "...keep me updated on Dana, ok?" as she again turns to leave stuffing the final Scroll into her Bag[429] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 06:37 PM

[433] 
[434] 

[437] 

Beyond the Argonian skeletons, which seem single-minded in their duties and unseeing of the rest of the world, Slashes With Claws will find three living guards patrolling, each armored in argonian armor adapted to fit on a man's body. A Nord, with a fierce-looking scar running over one eye and a wicked-looking flail, a swarthy Breton with a pair of shortswords, and an Imperial with a calm, dead expression and eyes that never seem to blink.

Dar'Tessir, in his scouting mission, found a fourth person, a tatooed Dunmer wielding a longsword carved from bone, who seemed to be directing the skeletons. For some reason, he wore resin goggles over his eyes, despite the rain not being all that bad out here, nor the light particularly strong.
[438] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 06:43 PM

[442] 

"You're welcome," Father Tralen says, bowing lightly to Sivartus. "Feel free to peruse our library while you wait."[443] 

[446] 

Seeing Osa head out, Father Tralen follows her, beckoning for her to wait.

"Ah, a moment if you would my child?" Father Tralen asks Osa quietly. "Tell me; in your estimation, did Sir Gancolm seem ensorcelled in any way?" [447] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 06:47 PM

[451] 

Osa flashes back to where she had first seen the Knight Gancolm, then on to the rest of the quest "Actually, Father, at first he seemed to be a common Knight...it was only after the Fight and when he gained the Spellbreaker that he started acting strangely...why do you ask Father? Is Dana in danger?"[452] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 07:04 PM

[456] 
Tsei eyed the compound, sizing up what she could see. Walking over to Slashes With Claws, she said, "I think a stealth approach would be best here, as opposed to attacking full throttle. Taking the guards out silently, one by one, perhaps ... I could cast blind, or silence on them, if you want ..." [457] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 07:11 PM

Slashes-With-Claws listened to what Dar'Tessir had seen, then listened to Tsei. "Yes I agree, there are too many to try to take at once. We are far outnumbered."

He thought for a moment, "The dunmer off by himself may be our best chance. We should try to capture him and see what he knows. Tsei, I want you to cast your spells at him: blind and silence him. I will cast a fatigue absorption, try to wear him out." He looked to the Khajiit, Dar'Tessir, lead on to him, we will cast the spells, then you will knock him out and bring him to me; I fear that my armor would make too much noise, as I am not as well stealth trained as you are."

Slashes looked at his claws for a moment, "I will interrogate him."


In the back of his mind Hesek remembered what Hears-the-Whispers said, "Remember, the Wamasaii are gone, but they do not forget. The warmbloods who defile the shrine do not know this; may their ignorance be their downfall." Maybe there was yet some power the spear of the shrine had that he had not you found.[458] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 07:13 PM

Firsthold, Dawn

Another half day’s journey over the river ended with the sun rising over a bend in the river, its light blindingly bright, caught in the silver and crystalline prisms of the by now familiar skyline of Firsthold. Quilge’s skiff joined other boats coming in from the straits to the west, forming a virtual armada of fishing boats entering the urban waterways of the city. The quietude of the country was replaced with the cries of sailors hailing one another in familiar and sometimes profane terms.

Quilge brought his boat to dock, and accepted payment for the trip.

“Now we go on to my parents’ house,” Lady Glacia Rysleire said, stepping onto the low walkway along the riverside. She was trying to be brave, but in her heart, she was imagining not only her parents being home, but also Count Terilite … and a host of Dark Brotherhood assassins.[459] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 07:16 PM

Castle Daruhn, Ald Raathim[460] 

[463] 

When the Duchess returned to her home, her seneschal Kallen sought her out. He had a letter with him.

"This is something you should see, your Grace," he said, frowning just a touch.[464] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:21 PM

[468] 

Gram smoothes his hair back a bit, trying to make himself look more presentable. "Aye fair lady," he says, flashing her a reassuring smile.

In his own mind, Gram was picturing running into Dark Brotherhood assassins on the way, and he takes up a position near Glacia in order to shield her should things turn ugly quickly.[469] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:22 PM

[473] 

Loranna raises her eyebrows; Kallen didn't frown often. "What is it?" she asks, taking the letter from him.[474] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 07:24 PM

[478] 
"What exactly are we doing now," Reeds asks nobody in general, "because unless you need something at your parents' house, I think it would be smart for you to stay as far away from there as possible, as it'll probably be swarming with Dark Brotherhood assasins." [479] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:26 PM

[483] 

"I do not think so," Father Tralen says, shaking his head. "But this is an unusual turn of events ... thank you my child; go in peace."

With a smile and a nod, the priest leaves Osa to her own devices.[484] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 07:29 PM

[488] 

Dar'Tessir nodded and cast a chameleon spell on himself and began to wind his way through the sparse foliage, at times on all fours. Finally he got to a position that was hidden yet close enough to the Dunmer that he wouldn't have to go too far to reach him. He crouched and prepared for a sprint after the spells hit their mark. [489] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 07:30 PM

[493] 


*...Osa stands quietly for a second, watching as Father Tralen walks down the hallway...*

"Hmm, I dont think he told me everything...and this time he seemed...I dont know distant...I wonder" she thinks as she continues towards the Library[494] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 07:31 PM

[498] [499] 

[502] 
In quick sucsession, Tsei casted spells of blind and silence, followed up by Slashes with Claws absorb fatigue spell. They watched in suspense, as Dar'Tessir, did his part. [503] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 07:31 PM

Castle Daruhn, Ald Raathim[504] 

[507] 

Kallen had read the letter. As trusted as he was, Loranna let him read all her correspondence. When he handed it to her, she noted that the broken seal was the mark of House Indoril.

The letter read:

To her Grace, Dutchess Loranna Pyrel;

It has come under my knowlage that you are sending fowarth an expedition against the king of Worms. There are few things worse in this world that the Tyranny of Hesleth, but the King of Worms is one of them. I would like to offer any support I can give, troops or weapons I would gladly give to rid the world of such evil.

I hope to hear from you soon
Yours truly
Councillor Indoril Faryon, Councillor House Indoril, Governer of Kragenmoor[508] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 07:35 PM

Firsthold, Summerset[509] 

[512] [513] 

[516] 

"I don't know if Thrandra will come with you, just based on your assurances that you're my friends," Glacia frowned. "I might need to come along ... Besides, I don't know where in Firsthold I'd be safe without you."
[517] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:36 PM

[521] 

Loranna reads the letter twice, just to make sure she read it right the first time.

Looking up to Kallen, she asks " ... The hell? Is this some sort of trick?" her expression suggesting she feels someone somewhere is laughing at her.
[522] 

Posted by: syronj Feb 28 2006, 07:36 PM

Shaka decided to explore the Temple further. He walked to the three towers, wondering whether he would be allowed inside the towers of Birth, Death, and Renewal.

At the same time, he tried to turn over the events in the sewers in his mind, asking himself whether he had seen possession that day, or just obsession.

[523] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 07:38 PM

Castle Daruhn, Ald Raathim[524] 

[527] 

"That is what I've been wondering, your Grace," Kallen nodded. "I'm perplexed. If it is a trap, it is a strange one. I think there's a distinct possibility it may be an honest offer."[528] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:42 PM

[532] 

Mindless skeletons walk to and fro, coming within feet of the spell-hidden Nightblade, tirelessly lugging their loads away. From this vantage point, he can see the skeletons heading back and forth between the tower and deep pit.[533] 

[536] 

The bone sword in the Dunmer's hands glows green for a moment, causing him to turn just as the spells hit him. He opens his mouth to say something, but no sound comes out.

Incredibly, though, he smiles, as his glowing bone blade swings outward in a wide arc, threatening to slice into Dar'Tessir as he runs forward. As the blade swings, it almost seems to home in on Dar'Tessir on its own accord.[537] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 07:47 PM

[541] 
Tsei swears, and readies another a paralyze spell, before sending it flying at the Dunmer. [542] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 07:48 PM

[546] 

"Maybe this is their response to my earlier letter warning about the incoming western vampires," Loranna muses, thinking to herself. "If it is an honest offer ... hrn; even if it is, we still don't have the His sap to make potions of protection yet. I don't know how many people we can even send into Scourg Barrow yet ..."

She looks at the letter one more time. " ... We need to think about this; I'm tempted to ask the Queen Mother's opinion on Faryon's offer."[547] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 07:52 PM

[551] 

Dar'Tessir doesn't have time to curse or ready anything. He does the only thing he can. He drops. Falling on his shoulder as he attempts to dive and roll out of his low sprint, he manages to move out of the swords initial path. He trys to stay half a step ahead by preparing to pull out his dagger as he sees Tsei's paralyze spell streak towards the Dunmer.[552] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 07:55 PM

Seeing Dar'Tessir in trouble Hesek sprints towards him. Staying low, his tail out straight for balance he moves very quickly. The held spear ready to intercept the blade trying to kill Dar'Tessir. [553] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 07:57 PM

*...The Library of The Temple of Arkay...Osa walks into the Library finding herself seemingly alone...which she also thought strange since this was such a big Temple, but alas it had been a full day of strangeness so she merely disregarded this from her mind and went straight to the weirdest thing in the entire building...the strange copy of "Arkay the Enemy" she had seen earlier...however when she picked it up she found it to be cold, not ice cold, but not as warm as the fire burning across the room would have it seem...hesitantly she opened the cover...* [554] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:01 PM

[558] 

The Dunmer gets hit by Tsei's spell, and freezes in place ....

... except for his arm, which is still moving, the sword now pulsing with sick green light.[559] 

[562] 
[563] 

[566] 

The sacred spear clashes against the bone sword, a roar of lightning erupting from the tip to blast at the sword. Incredibly, the sword keeps swinging, tugging the Dunmer's arm around as it fights on its own.

The sound of the lightning attracts the attention of the other guards though, and the Nord gives a loud bellow as he runs forward at Slashes-With-Claws, flail raised. The Breton and Imperial follow but a few steps behind, as the skeletons continue their labors unmindful of the conflict in their midst.[567] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 08:04 PM

[571] 
Reeds smiled at Glacia. "I guess it's to your house then."

He loosened the clasps of both his weapons, just in case. [572] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:06 PM

Firsthold, Summerset[573] 

[576] 

As they talked, they could hear applause coming from the town.

"It's the theater festival beginning," Glacia said. "My parents and the Count will be there ... And no one should be at the house except servants."

As the sun rose, there were more expensive pleasure crafts that were pulling to the dock. Well-to-do Altmer disembarked chatting with one another. Apparently, Baloth-Kul's new play would be debuting.
[577] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:08 PM

[581] 

"Zenithar favors the bold and cunning," Gram says, quickly adding "Though it's Kyne's breath that makes men bold. Either way, let's make haste; we can send word to your parents and the Count from Ald Raathim."[582] 

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

[586] 
"Or better yet, the other side of the continent." Reeds adds, "I've got friends in Cyrodiil that would be happy to send a letter for me..." [587] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 08:12 PM

[591] 

Dar'Tessir is relieved when the spell hits the Dunmer... until he realizes the sword still swings. In the second that Slashes' block bought him he realizes, All Gods! The sword is alive! He regains himself soon enough and taking his dagger thrusts up from the ground, aiming for where the Dunmer's neck and jaw meet. [592] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:14 PM

Firsthold[593] 

[596] 

Glacia grinned, but it was a nervous grin.

The group skirted the edge of the city, trying to stay a distance away from the palace grounds where the theater festival was being held. It was like working one's way against the current of a strong river, but soon, they found themselves in the elegant residential boulevard where Rysleire Manor stood.

Glacia looked it, shivering a little, and then summoned up her courage, walking forward to knock on the front door.[597] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 08:16 PM

Seeing the guards run towards him Hesek raises the spear high and gives a Hist war cry. He casts shield and reflect, bringing the spear around to block the first swing by the Nord, hoping that the surge will knock him down. [598] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:23 PM

[602] 

The sword twists to strike at Dar'Tessir, but the Dunmer's paraylized body can't do much more than swing its arm, and Dar'Tessir is inside the Dunmer's reach. The dagger slides into the Dunmer's throat with a sickening splurching sound, though no blood flows from the wound. The smell of death is strong in Dar'Tessir's nostrils as the sword pulses green once more, and the Dunmer begins moving more freely again, the dagger still in his throat.[603] 

[606] 

Spear and flail clash, the Wamasus tooth again roaring with lightning; the Nord staggers back a bit, but his inborn hardiness lets him shake off the blast to try and attack again, the flail coming down at Hesek's head.

Meanwhile, the Imperial whispers an incantation and surrounds his companions in a blue light, while the Breton unsheathes his swords and tries to slice Dar'Tessir into ribbons.[607] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:28 PM

Firsthold[608] 

[611] 

The door opened, and for a moment Thrandra and Glacia just looked at one another, and then the servant girl grabbed her in a tight embrace.

“What are you doing back here?” Thrandra cried. “It isn’t safe –“

“I’m here with my friends,” Glacia replied, gesturing to the four behind her. “How would you like to go with us to Ald –“

Glacia stopped speaking, and slumped forward as Thrandra tried to keep her from falling.

“My lady?!” Thrandra cried. “My lady!”
[612] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 08:31 PM

[616] 

Dar'Tessir's already large eyes widen at the realization that the Dunmer is not dead. He frantically tries to pull his dagger free from the aparently undead mer's neck. Seeing the Breton he casts a fireball towards him to slow him down. Puting his hand on the Dark Elf's neck and casting a fire damage spell he pulls once more, freeing his dagger as the Khajiit staggers back [617] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:32 PM

[621] 

Gram's eyes widen in surprise. "What?" he says, whirling around, his eyes scanning for assassins. His hand reaches to his belt for a healing potion. "Reeds! Give her this!"[622] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 08:33 PM

[626] 
Reeds caught her from falling, cradling her in his arms. Looking around and at Glacia with his magic sense active, he would be able to see invisble attackers or any magical poison going the through Glacia. "Damn it Glacia, don't do this now..."[627] 

[630] 
Reeds grabbes the potion, flicks off the cap, and pours it into Glacia's mouth. [631] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 28 2006, 08:34 PM

[635] 

Erenius too is shocked by the turn of events and drops the satchel, offerring its contents to Reeds also. He then unsheathes the blade and searches about for whatever brought this woe upon Glacia. [636] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:35 PM

Firsthold[637] 

[640] 

Gram immediately spotted them in the trees, clad in black. Assassins. At least ten of them, dropping down into the front garden of the Rysleire Manor like leaving, swords and whips flashing out.[641] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 08:36 PM

Hesek assumes a combat stance. The spell cast by the imperial had probably been resist shock or some other resistance spell. The spear still had a deadly sharp edge. He lunges to the side, avoiding the flail, and assumes a battlestance. Spinning and whirling in the deadly dance his people fight with he strikes repeatedly at the Nord while avoiding the flail.

Finally he spins around, his tail sweeping the ground, trying to trip the Nord. If the Nord falls, Hesek can kill him in one move.[642] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:39 PM

Firsthold[643] 

[646] 

A tiny quill, scarcely bigger that a hair, was sticking in Glacia's arm.

She was breathing, it was only a knock-out drug in her.

The assassins came closer as Reeds's poured the potion in Glacia's mouth, and Thrandra screamed. [647] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 08:42 PM

[651] 
Tsei sends a fireball hurtiling towards the imperial and breton, before sending a shield spell at Slashes and Dar'Tessir. [652] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 08:45 PM

[656] 
Isidor drew his axe, and turned to face the group of assassins. [657] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 08:46 PM

[661] 
Reeds pulls the quill out of her arm and, pouring a restore fatigue potion from his stachel into her mouth, places her on the ground and readies himself to face the Dark Brotherhood. [662] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 28 2006, 08:48 PM

[666] 

Erenius unsheathed his blade, and taking the lead, charges into the assassins, his ebony blade shimmering as sunlight and shade danced over its surface. As he makes first contact, the blade is thrust at the chest of the lead assassin, the finely honed point aimed straight for his abdomen, ready to bring forth the intestines of his foe to the cobblestone and soil they stood on. [667] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:49 PM

[671] 

Gram roars "Miserable curs! You should have stayed in the shadows!"

Despite his bravado, Gram reckoned the situation as bad; Glacia was out and on the ground and Thandra was screaming, frghtened out of her wits. And the party was surrounded ...

"Get Glacia inside!" Gram orders Thandra. "We can defend her more easily that way! Isidor, you and I break their ranks! Erenius, Reeds, defend the women!"

With another bellow, Gram lays into the nearest assassin, Frostkiss arching through the air.[672] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 08:54 PM

[676] [677] 

[680] 

The fireballs Tsei and Dar'Tessir cast are hasty and thus underpowered, but combined they succeed in holding the Breton and Imperial at bay - though the Imperial immediately begins chanting a healing spell to counter the damage done.

The bone sword tries to sink into Dar'Tessir's side, the Dunmer's other arm grabbing at the Khajiit to hold him still. The fire spell burns away the Dunmer's jaw, which slows him down not a whit.[681] 

[684] 

Several times the spear finds its mark, but the Nord seems driven by battlelust, and shakes off the lightning wracking his body. He leaps over Slashes's tail and brings his flail down, intending to crush the offending limb ...[685] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 08:55 PM

Firsthold[686] 

[689] [690] 

[693] 

Glacia coughed, her eyes fluttering open. Thrandra grabbed her around the arms, dragging her into the house, away from the assassins.

“Step away from the girl,” a dark, deep voice came from the first assassin, spinning his whip around to the left and right. “We aren’t being paid extra for blood.”[694] 

[697] 

The assassin was taken off guard, knocked down by the assault, dropping his whip, as he held onto his belly, bellowing as blood poured onto the Rysleire front lawn.

Ten of the other assassins (for, all told, there were thirteen of them) also seemed stunned by Erenius’s sudden attack, but two of them were able to attack.

A whip-wielding assassin cast out his barbed weapon, catching it around Erenius’s leg. With a flip of his wrist, he could slice through it like it was butter …

The second charged towards Reeds and the two Altmer women, brandishing two long, thin daggers with evident expertise.[698] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 08:58 PM

[702] 
Isidor swung his axe backwards at the assassin that was running towards Reeds, hoping to cut him in the leg. [703] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 08:59 PM

[707] 
"Then let us be!" Reeds shouted back to the one who had spoken, while drawing both his swords, "And try to get her without blood!"

Reeds placed himself squarely between the assasins and the women, evading and returning the blows as well as he could while they got into the house. [708] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 28 2006, 09:04 PM

[712] 

Ignoring those behind him trying to get Glacia inside, Erenius was focused on his foe. Deftly wielding his sword, he cuts the whip with a lone strike, the whip part caught about his leg digging in and cutting slightly as the extra pressure is brought to it, but it quickly fell down about his foot in a pile. In a quick riposte, Erenius slashed widely as his foe, aiming for his right elbow, hoping to rend it from the shoulder in a clean swipe.

He then turned about suddenly and darted off towards the doorway to put some distance between him and the others behind him, and close the distance to the one close to the door who was troubling Reeds. [713] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 09:08 PM

[717] 

Gram lashes out at the dagger-toting assassin as he makes his rush for Reeds, while answering the deep-voiced assassin.

"You're not getting paid enough whether you were for extra blood or not; get yourselves out of our sight and we'll let you live," he calls out. "Otherwise, it's naught but steel you'll be bringing home tonight, in your gullets![718] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 09:08 PM

The flail clips Hesek's tail, bruising it. Seeing that the battle does not go well, he decides on another plan. "Break for the hole where the skeletons are going!" He shouts and begins to pull back towards it. He takes a quick look towards Dar'Tessir to see how he is doing. [719] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 09:13 PM

[723] 
[724] 

[727] 

Dar'Tessir hears Slashes' call and begins to stab at the Dunmer's arm, trying to damage it enough to weaken it. Dar'Tessir spins and manages to flip the Dunmer over his shoulder, hoping he will let go and fall into the Breton. [728] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 09:15 PM

Firsthold[729] 

[732] 

The assassin that Reeds was addressing had nothing to say, but groaned as he lay on the lawn. Another assassin ran to him with glowing blue hands to heal him.[733] 

[736] 

The assassin dodged Isidor’s axe swing, and fell against Reeds, to knock him off-balance, pushing him towards the open door.

Thrandra had pulled Glacia into the foyer and was calling for help. The sound of servants’ footsteps could be heard from within.[737] 

[740] 

The assassin dodged Erenius’s blow unsteadily, caught a bit off balance by having his whip snapped in half while it was taut.

Of the nine remaining assassins (not counting the one Isidor and Gram both swung at who fell into Reeds, the one with his guts out, the one healing him, and the one caught off balance by Erenius), five ran directly for the open door, two (both with swords) went for Isidor and Gram, and two (one with a barbed whip, one with a sword) charged at Erenius.

“Get inside!” Thrandra cried out. [741] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 09:17 PM

Hearing Slashes's words, Tsei makes a break for the hole, after casting a shield over Dar'Tessir. [742] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 09:20 PM

[746] 
Reeds rolled with the assasin, winding up in the foyer engaged in a wrestleing match against him. Reeds managed to get on top and pin the man, bringing one sword to the man's throat and the other to a place most men don't like having sharp pointy things near. "Hold still or die." Reeds growled at him. [747] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 28 2006, 09:21 PM

[751] 

Stepping onto the threshold, he turns to face his attacker, sword ready, his leg bleeding freely, even if it wasnt wounded badly. Seeing that now there were few choices, Erenius rushes inside the house, ready to think of an alternative, and hope this team of the Brotherhood wasnt exactly in the best form when it came to enterring houses. [752] 

Posted by: Stargazey Feb 28 2006, 09:26 PM

[756] 
Isidor pushed the charging assassin back, with his shoulder, before retreating back into the house. [757] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 09:32 PM

[761] 
[762] 

[765] 

The Dunmer goes flying, slamming into the Breton, who pushes the Dunmer away with a disgusted look on his face and a muttered "Stupid corpse! Stupid sword ..."

"Never mind the sword right now; get them!" the Nord bellows, his flail swishing through the air.[766] 

[769] 

As the party flees, they pass more stone statues of Wamasaii, glaring down at them with their eternal, unflinching stone eyes. The spear in Hesek's hand throbs even more with power as they pass the statues, pushing aside skeletons in their haste. Large crates fall open, revealing gems, gold, and ancient Argonian artifacts depicting the mighty Wamasaii

The Dunmer corpse slowly gets to its feet, and it clambers after the three guards, sword held high. In the distance, at the base of the tower, a hideous, disgusting creature emerges from the giant doors, watching the chase with beady eyes and muttering "Now this is unexpected ..." in a bubbling voice.

The heroes reach the pit, whereupon the skeletons are seen loading the crates onto a strange, alien craft, at once fascinating and repugnant. Like a giant, bloated slug with a carriage slung underneath, it floats just a few inches off the ground, tethered by a large iron chain.

The Nord, Breton, and Imperial are gaining ...
[770] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 09:35 PM

[774] 

Gram pulls back quickly, Truetruner held out to meet the assassins' charge. The assassins attacking him find the ebony shield impervious to their blows, and Gram backpedals to block the doorway with his massive frame once his companions are safely inside.

"No man uproots me when I've made my stand!" he boasts, digging his heels in. "Come on; I'll cut you all down to size!" [775] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 09:41 PM

Hesek looks up at one of the statues of the Wamasaii. The power of the spear get stronger as he approaches one of them. The statue looks as though it could jump off its pedestal. He reaches out and touches the tip of the spear to the statue. [776] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 09:47 PM

[780] 

Dar'Tessir hisses in frustration, amazment, realy just any strong emotion other than happiness. "Ban Daar! A living sword, a sload, and ancient artifacts!" He begins to prepare but has no idea what to do other than ready himself for the approaching gaurds. A shame his magika's so low. [781] 

Posted by: One87xe Feb 28 2006, 09:47 PM

[785] 

*...the fire flickers, and a strange draft seems to come out of nowhere as Osa turns the cover...she jumps slightly and whirls around quickly to find...nothing...the fire resumes its normal rumble,she sits the book down and one very edgy Osa removes the Mluo (wrapped tightly to keep it from the filth of the Sewers) and pulls a small chunk off, savoring it in her mouth...she merely stares at the book as she slowly chews...*[786] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 09:48 PM

Firsthold[787] 

[790] [791] 

[794] [795] 

[798] [799] 

[802] 

The assassin Reeds is on top of knees the Argonian, trying to throw him off.

Four servants, a thin maid, a thinner valet, and two burlier handy men run into the foyer from all directions, staring at Lady Glacia groggily getting to her feet, staring at the Argonian and the assassin wrestling on the floor, staring at the big Nord blocking the door with his shield.

A powerful volley of blows reigned against Gram’s shield. They may not be able to split the shield, but by sheer force, they could push their way in.

“The kitchen door!” Thrandra cried, pulling at the heroes. “Hurry, before they circle around!”[803] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 09:49 PM

[807] 
"Your life," Reeds shrugs, wincing a bit from the blow. Deftly he slits the assasin's throat, then moves back to the kitchen door. [808] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 09:54 PM

[812] 

As the tooth of the fallen Wamasus touches the statue, lightning leaps from the spear's tip, dancing over the stone carving. From there, the lightning branches out, striking the next nearest statues, then the ones beyond them, then the ones beyond them.

The Imperial, Nord, and Breton all stop in their tracks, watching the lightning nervously. The Dunmer, however, pays it no heed and continues to clamber after the heroes, sword raised to strike at Slashes-With-Claws in the back.

And then, Slashes and Tsei hear voices echoing in their head.

YOU ... REMEMBERED ...

The spear leaps in Slashes's hands, hurtling into the Dunmer's chest. With a loud crack! it shoots forth enough lightning to blow the corpse apart.

YOU ... REMEMBERED!!! ... Every statues' eyes now glow with lightning, and the creature by the tower hastily vanishes into thin air.[813] 

Posted by: FireMaster Feb 28 2006, 09:55 PM

[817] 

Erenius turns about and heads to the kitchen after taking a bandage from his satchel and dressing his wound. When he reaches there, he looks to the door and makes sure its locked well, finding things in the room to barricade it with should the assassins try that route.

He then returns from the kitchen, wiping his blade with a washing cloth he found discarded in a pail on the floor.

"The kitchen is secured for now. The door there is barricaded, and unless we have a plan B, we aint goin anywhere soon," Erenius observes as he resheathes his blade, sighing. [818] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 09:59 PM

[822] 

Gram makes one last push, using his bearlike strength to full effect, before slamming the door shut behind him and beating feet for the kitchen. [823] 

[826] 

"Oh; I thought we meant to slip out the back and break for the Mage Guild," Gram says, noting the now barricaded door. "Well then, we'll just cut off their heads when they try to break into here." [827] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 09:59 PM

Firsthold, Rysleire Manor[828] 

[831] [832] 

[835] 

“I meant,” Thrandra shouts, supporting Glacia. “We should escape through the kitchen door! That’s the Plan B!”

“What’s happening?” the valet cried. “Lady Glacia, are you all right?”

“We can go out through the stables …” Glacia murmurs.

The two brawnier servants ran to help Gram with the shield against the door.

Thrandra began pulling Glacia towards the back of the manor and the stables. "All right, Plan C ..." [836] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 10:02 PM

[840] 

Dar'Tessir exclames loudly in a mixture of ta'Agra and a yelp, almost falling down with his surprise and elation. Then in Tamrielic, "Dar'Tessir doesn't know what Slashes did, or how but..."

It was very impressive though he couldn't hear the voices. [841] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:02 PM

[845] 
"There wouldn't happen to be..." Reeds does a quick head count, "nine horses in those stables would there? a bunch of horses could probably be useful right about now." [846] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 10:05 PM

Firsthold, Rysleire Manor[847] 

[850] 

Thrandra shakes her head. "Only five."

"What is going on here?!" one of the brawny servants shouts, holding onto the pounding door. "Who are these people?! Who are you?!"

"The guards will be here any moment!" the valet cries. "Leave us alone!"

He grabs at Lady Glacia, who slaps his hand away.[851] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 10:05 PM

[855] 

Hesek is only half surprised as the lightning surges between the statues. He expected a reaction, but instinct makes him jump back. As the spear suddenly takes a life of its own for a moment he spins around to see the dunmer explode into bits of rotten flesh.

He looks at the spear in surprise, looking up just in time to see the sload disappear.

Looking in awe at the statues as the voices pound in his head; he speaks in Hist, "We remembered. We came to honor you once more. We came to cleanse your shrine. We will replace what was taken. It will be sacred once more." [856] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:06 PM

[860] 
"Five is enough if we double up." Reeds says. Shouting to the servants in the foyer, " all you wanting to accompany Glacia, we're heading out now!"

"Show us the stables please." Reeds asks Glacia. [861] 

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

Rysleire Manor, Firsthold[862] 

[865] 

Thrandra leads the group through a courtyard to the well-appointed stables, where five beautiful horses were housed. Only one of the servants followed them, the thin maid who kept wailing. "What are you doing? Who are you? What do we tell the master?"

Glacia ignored her. "Take the alley, and go left. We'll be going towards the theater festival, but away from the assassins ..."

Thrandra ran to the gates to throw open the bolt.
[866] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:10 PM

[870] 

THEN, DO SO, the voices say, FOR YOU BEAR THE TOKEN OF OUR BOND. OUR STRENGTH WE GIVE TO YOU.

Lightning flashes from the eyes of the statue to strike the spear's head, and Hesek feels power coursing through his veins; cutting down the smoothskins would be child's play ...

Lightning flashes from the statues again, blasting into the ranks of the skeleton workers and blowing them apart.[871] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:14 PM

[875] 

"We're rescuing your daughter from the Count's bloodthirsty assistants," Gram snaps impatiently at the thin maid. "Trust us, the lord and lady will be thankful for it in the end. Now, we run! Those dark hoods won't spare a single one of us to get what they want."

He jumps onto a horse and reaches down to pull the maid up. [876] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:16 PM

[880] 
[881] 

[884] 
Reeds also chooses a horse and swings on. He holds out his hand to help Glacia up, "Unless you'd rather ride by yourself?" [885] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 10:17 PM

Rysleire Manor, Firsthold[886] 

[889] 

The skinny Altmer maid weighs less than Gram's favorite sword and is easily scooped up, even while she struggles and screams.

The gates are flung open and everyone runs for a horse.

"Um," Thrandra says. "It's worth mentioning now, that I don't know how to ride ..."

From down the alleyway came the sound of running footsteps, coming closer, from the right, just where Glacia said the assassins would be ...[890] 

Posted by: Slashes-With-Claws Feb 28 2006, 10:18 PM

[894] 

Hesek tenses as the power flows into him. He looks at the three warmbloods and approaches. The nord is the first to react. He lunges towards Hesek, the flail flying.

With ease Hesek knocks the flail aside, a quick thrust and the spear plunges completely through the Nord, punching out through the back plate on his armor. Hesek withdraws the bloodstained spear and turns towards the Imperial.

The Imperial moves more cautiously, finally making a move he lunges, just avoiding the spear tip. Hesek's left hand leaves the spear, his claws outstretched. They dig into the flesh of the Imperial's neck, lightning surging outward from them. Playing off the metal claw on the ring finger in interesting sparkles.

He stands over the dead bodies, his adrenaline pumping, his eyes wild. Looking up into the sky he cries out in victory. [895] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:20 PM

[899] 
Reeds hears Thranda and, quickly helping her on the horse behind him, he says, "Hold on tight and don't look back."

Spurring the horse, he rides out of the alley and into Firsthold's streets. [900] 

Posted by: apocolipseLater Feb 28 2006, 10:23 PM

[904] 

Dar'Tessir isn't sure what's going on except that the Breton is off his gaurd. Dar'Tessir runs at him, yowling like an angry cat. He jumps and pounces on the Breton, his left claw raking the man's face. He then thrusts his dagger into the Breton's neck and slices it from jaw to base, just to make sure. He quickly wishes he hadn't as blood comes gushing from the dying man's wound getting on his hands.

the Khajiit stands up and is seemingly calm though every muscle in his body is tight and ready to spring. [905] 

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

Firsthold[906] 

[909] 

The horse behind Reeds is fortunately occupied by Isidor, so Thrandra clings to him and shuts her eyes as the four horses (one with Reeds and Glacia, one with Gram and the shrieking struggling skinny maid, one with Isidor and Thrandra, and one with just Erenius) charge left down the alleyway. One assassin is immediately trampled by them, and the rest give chase.

The alleyway opens to the main boulevard where there is a parade in progress. The four horses leap over marching soldiers in a mad dash for the Mages Guild.
[910] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:34 PM

[914] 

"I say, stop squirming before you throw yourself off the horse!" Gram yells, trying to keep from losing his grip on the maid. "We're trying to save you, not hurt you!"

Not to mention, he couldn't actually swing at any chasing assassins while his hands were occupied with keeping the maid steady. Still, despite everything, Gram's face was flush with excitement; this was turning into a worthy tale to share in the bar, though more as a comedic rather than melodramatic story.

"Least the dark hoods can't outrun a horse," he notes to himself, taking comfort in this one fact.[915] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:37 PM

[919] 
[920] 

[923] 

The lightning surrounding Slashes slowly fades, and after a few more blasts to finish off the skeletons, the statues likewise return to their normal state.

RETURN THE PILFERED OFFERINGS TO THE TOWER, AND ALL WILL BE RIGHT AGAIN, the voices say to Slashes, slowly fading. Our thanks for remembering our ancient bond, Rootchild.

Then, the shrine is still, save for the buzzing of the insects and the soft patter of the rain which was starting now to fall.[924] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 10:45 PM

Firsthold[925] 

[928] 

The soldiers in the parade turned against the four horses and their riders, and the only route open was through a tent just off the royal park.

At that moment, Baloth-Kul’s play was reaching its climax. In a dark, haunted house, two actors were huddled together, whispering. The audience, enraptured, was leaning forward to hear every line.

At that moment, the four horses broke through the set and galloped up the aisle to screams and applause.

Hours later, the playwright, well-pleased, took all the credit.

On the other side of the tent was the small plaza that contained the Mages Guild of Firsthold.[929] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:48 PM

[933] 
Reeds didn't bother dismounting the horse, but simply rode into the building, "six for Ald Raathim, as fast as humanly possible please." He dismounted the horse and threw the guild guide one of the 'reward' diamonds. [934] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:50 PM

[938] 

"ARRRRR!!!!" Gram yells the moment he realizes what happened, waving Flametongue overhead. "And THAT'S how we do things in Skyrim!"

Seeing a few ladies swoon, Gram grins; he always did know how to sweep a lass off her feet.

Seeing the Mage Guild ahead, Gram resheathes his sword and thanks Kyne for being at their backs. He couldn't wait to see the look on his daughter's face when she heard about this one.[939] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 10:53 PM

[943] 

"Please," the skinny maid whispered, grabbing Reeds, still unsteady from the ride. "Please, let me go ..."

Glacia turned to her, and handed her a few gold coins. "Stay here and send word back to my parents' house that you're here. They'll make sure you're safe."

She looked at Reeds, smiled, and turned to the Guild Guide. "I'm sorry, my friend misprounced it. Alcaire."

"Ah, High Rock," the Guild Guide smiled. It was the Altmer woman they had interrogated before. "Good thing you corrected him. I almost sent you to Morrowind."[944] 

Posted by: stargate525 Feb 28 2006, 10:55 PM

[948] 
Alcaire? Alcaire?! Reeds looked at Glacia in confusion, I hope you know what you're doing...


OOC:outta here for the night [949] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 10:58 PM

[953] 

Gram, not having met this Altmer woman, just looks at Glacia, raising his eyebrows.

"They say the wine's good in Alcaire," he rumbles thoughtfully, "but this is more of an ale and mead sort of night ..."[954] 

Posted by: Sheogorath Feb 28 2006, 10:58 PM

Mages Guild, Alcaire[955] 

[958] 

"Let's make it at least a little difficult to track us," Glacia explained, as she, Reeds, Gram, Thrandra, Erenius, and Isidor arrived. "Six for Senchal, please."

The heroes popped around Tamriel for quite some time before arriving at last in Ald Raathim.

(OOC -- Also outta here for the night. Hope you enjoyed) [959] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 11:18 PM

[963] 

The fatigued look fades from Sir Gancolm's eyes quickly, but just as quickly it returns, and he is forced to drag himself, with Dana supporting him, to the elevated area.

"Necromancer ... killed my father ..." Sir Gancolm starts saying, sounding like he's having trouble thinking straight. "I was young; father went out ... they fought; I saw it ... cut him down with a curse, his flesh withering away ..."[964] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 28 2006, 11:26 PM

[968] 
"A curse?", Dana asked, looking strangely at him. "You look very tired.. and you slur, speak in half-sentences. By all means, my restoration magick should have at least done something..."

"How do you feel. Do you feel different than a few hours ago? Aside from combat weakness? Different from touching Spellbreaker? Or from the combat beforehand... the one in the tunnel?", she asked, taking Gancolm's chin into her hand and turning his head around to look into his eyes and examine his face. [969] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 11:31 PM

[973] 

"Fine ... I'm fine ..." Sir Gancolm insists, trying to pull his head away, mutting "not proper ..." under his breath, though with a hesitant tone.

More loudly, he says "No, no different. Raiders fell quickly; only took few wounds ... resisted the mage's spells, Arkay's blessing on me ..."

Judging from the look in Sir Gancolm's face, Dana would swear he was drunk of his rocks, only his breath doesn't even hint of drink. His eyes are unfocused and he looks like he's ready to collapse.[974] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 28 2006, 11:36 PM

[978] 
"Something's not right with you. Even you should be able to feel it. You can't even say a sentence straight anymore.", Dana said, taking his head in both of her hands, sleek fingers holding him tightly in a manner that spoke clearly of "Now don't move and don't complain."

Dana spoke a few words, and a cure poison and cure disease spell flowed from her hands. A second later, she thought of something...
"You spoke of a curse?", Dana asked, then murmured another incantation, trying to dispell anything unusual that would affect Gancolm, just to be sure. [979] 

Posted by: Loranna Feb 28 2006, 11:48 PM

[983] 

When Dana cast her Dispel, she felt resistance; hostile magics were indeed afflicting Sir Gancolm, and as she concentrates, she gets a feel for their power; slow and subtle but insidious, a curse meant to gradually wear away at the victim's strength and intellect, until they simply collapse, too addled to help themselves.

However, the power of the curse couldn't stand up to Dana's Dispel, proving that the mage who cast it was at best an intermediate student of the school of Destruction. With a shower of white sparkles, Sir Gancolm visibly relaxes, his head sinking to his chest.

" ... Thank you my lady; already I feel a great fog lifting from my mind ..." he says, slowly rising back to his feet. "My strength returns to my limbs ..." A frown comes to his face. "That raider was better at magic than I thought; his overt curses could not overcome my will, so he used one that slipped through my defenses ..." he says, regretfully.[984] 

Posted by: Nalion Feb 28 2006, 11:56 PM

[988] 
Dana had a small coat of sweat on her brow, havin mentally tried to push away the spell from Gancolm, and the effort was clearly visible on her face. She promised herself that she would - additionally to her interest in restoration - train mysticism as well. One could never know, and if that spell was crafted by a student, who managed to slip this spell through the defenses of a knight of Arkay, what power would the spell have if crafted by a master?
"It's okay.", Dana said, smiling, putting her last magicka reserves into a restorative spell that would accelerate the regeneration of strength and intelligence.
"Magic casters should not be underestimated, but with Spellbreaker here, you would not need to worry too much.", Dana said, pointing at the shield. "... which brings me to a point. What to do now? Was your stubborness to pursue the necromancer that killed your father an effect of the curse? Could we not look for help first? Return to the temple?" [989] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 12:01 AM

[993] 

Sir Gancolm is quiet for a long moment. Then, he answers slowly " ... When the Knight Captain asked me to undertake this mission, I thought it a sign from Arkay himself that finally, it was time for me to avenge my father's death. I have long trained myself to fight evil wherever it exists, but my magical talents lie only in striking down villians, not in healing. Though I can usually shrug off most curses ... I knew I would need a powerful magical defense to take on the slayer of my father. Thus ..."

He looks to the Spellbreaker. " ... It seemed a sign from the heavens themselves ..."[994] 

Posted by: Nalion Mar 1 2006, 12:10 AM

[998] 
"You cannot run away alone, even if it is a very personal thing, Gancolm. You have a duty. To the temple.", Dana said softly. She felt that scolding or taking too harsh a tone would perhaps make Gancolm retreat behind his stubborness again.
"There are many friends that you have at the temple, why else would Jartod entrust you with such an important mission. The Temple of Arkay relies on you... We rely on you. Spellbreaker is needed. Against Mannimarco, the arch-enemy of Arkay..." [999] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 12:15 AM

[1003] 

Sir Gancolm's expression is that of a man wrestling with himself.

Wordlessly, he hands the Spellbreaker to Dana. "My Lady ... I ..." he says, before swallowing and bowing to her.

"I will escort you back to the Temple now, my Lady," he says, his eyes not meeting Dana's lest she see the pain within them. "The greater Enemy must be combatted first, lest he gain too much power to be resisted." He looks like he wishes to say more, but he holds his tongue.[1004] 

Posted by: Nalion Mar 1 2006, 12:25 AM

[1008] 
Dana looked at Gancolm, wondering what he wanted to add, and her face showed a curious expression for a moment. Then, she answered him with a smile.
"It's okay, Gancolm. You were under the influence of a spell, and suffered from grief about your father's death. Please rise, I'm no person to bow to. And leave that 'my lady' out, will you? I'm not a lady, I'm just Dana. And I have enough problems dealing with being me, so that I don't feel the need to deal with a Lady's problems, too."
Dana laughed and held out a rather dirty hand to Gancolm. "Let's go back to the temple and bring back the shield. And then... a bath!"[1009] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 12:29 AM

[1013] 

After a quiet moment, Sir Gancolm nods once, saying "Yes m ... Dana." He awkwardly takes her hand, and brings it to his lips in a polite gesture.

After a few seconds, he lets go of her hand and unslings his shield from his back, and leads the way, defending Dana from the lone rat foolish enough to get in their way.

The fresh desert air of Sentinel was never more sweet-smelling than it was today ...nor were the simple baths of the Temple of Arkay more luxorious. [1014] 

Posted by: S'reddit Mar 1 2006, 02:24 AM

Ald Raathim[1015] 

[1018] 

None of the trips through different capitols where there was a Mages Guild was very long. The heroes would step out onto the streets for a few minutes, perhaps for a walk of a few block to get a sense of the place. At a few key locations, they paused long enough for a drink in the local tavern.

Glacia and Thrandra held each other’s hand and gasped at the sights, large and small. The Altmer had never travelled but a few miles away from Firsthold in their lives, and they had questions about everything. Their knowledge varied from astonishingly astute, as befits people who read a lot, to amazingly wrong-headed, as befits people who have never been anywhere.

In Skyrim, they quizzed Gram and Isidor about everything. Erenius showed them where he was stationed in Elsweyr, as well as showing them the wonders of the Imperial City, while Reeds showed them the quieter charms of Bruma.

Glacia also asked many questions about the life and people of Ald Raathim.

Thrandra had already made up her mind. She was going to be the head housemaid either at the Duchess’s palace or the Nymph and Noggin.

“Either will be lucky to have me,” she said confidently, and then she told a dirty joke so no one would think she was stuck up.

Glacia seemed less sure of her future, but swore it didn’t bother her.

Finally, they arrived in Ald Raathim, and stepping out of the Mages Guild, they wanted to see everything. The Arena. The Village Green. The Resolution of Zenithar. The Nymph and Noggin. The Royal Fortresses. The Bay. The House of Dibella (said Thrandra, giggling). The Castle of the Duchess.

“Or is that not what people do?” Glacia asked, carefully. “I mean regular people don’t go to see the Duchess, do they? I’m no one.” [1019] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 08:30 AM

[1023] 

Gram was gracious during the whirlind tour of Tamriel, and spoke with pride of the wonders of Skyrim, of the wild beauty of the ice and snow, of the feats of the men who carved for themselves a place to live in such a land. His voice became fond as he recounted the legends of his own village and the Pyrel clan, who could trace their roots all the way back to the tail end of the First Era and who boasted heroes and warriors involved in everything from the legendary battles of Tiber Septim to the resistance of the demonic forces of Ada'Soom Dir-Kamal to some of the earliest famous exploits of the Fighters Guild, and adventures of smaller nature but no less heroic besides.

At Glacia's final question, he chuckled, and answered "Ah, my daughter makes up her own rules for how to be a Duchess, lass; anyone, noble or commoner, may seek an audience with her. She just does so damn much that somedays we're lucky if she gets to see herself, let alone visitors! But she's waiting to hear how our efforts to rescue you go, so I wager she'll make to see us as soon as she gets word we're back safely. In the meantime let us relax and enjoy the sights; I see the Arena is finally opening for business again and the Dunmer have built a new Temple right next to the House of Dibella. I'm sure the religious debates must rage hotly between the two."

He chuckles and shakes his head, privately wondering where his daughter was right now. Had he known that at that moment she was in Skyrim, he would have been greatly amused if not a tad curious and concerned. She was getting too far along to be taking trips and the summer season in Skyrim was fast ending.[1024] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 08:46 AM

Black Marsh

Restoring the treasures to the tower took some time, but the two Argonian guides joined the heroes in helping to carry the heavy crates back, and Hesek found he still had a touch of the wild strength that had imbued him when he struck down the smoothskins. Still, it took a good portion of the rest of the day, for the skeletons had taken almost all of the treasures from the tower.

"These are the gifts our people made for the Wamasaii," one of the guides explains when picking up an ancient Argonian relic. "The gold and gems were theirs."

Touching one of the statues reverently, the second guide says "The Wamasaii came here to bear their young, but several of their kind came here for their final rest, that their spirits would watch over the young. Time had caused them to slumber deeply, but the Spear awoke them, and they indeed remembered." Both guides had knelt at the statue and chanted in Hist, thanking the spirits of the long-lost dragons for showing their favor.

The slain smoothskins, the Argonians stripped, their belongings made into an offering. However, search as they might, no one could find the bone sword that had been the greatest foe of the heroes in their struggle.

"An evil omen; the corrupt sword has doubtless left to seek a new wielder," one of the guides hisses.

Finally, the treasures were restored to the tower, and all traces of the Sload that had been in the sacred edificae had been erased. Solemnly, the Argonians looked to the others, standing over the bodies of the slain smoothskins.

"They are doubtless escaped criminals; there is likely a great reward for their death," one explains. "Do you wish to take their heads as proof of your victory over them?

"What shall we do with that?" the other asks, pointing to the sload airship. "It is a vile thing ..."[1025] 

Posted by: Loranna Mar 1 2006, 08:58 AM

The heroes slowly begin to return to Ald Raathim; the campaign against Mannimarco gains momentum.

What shall come next? What other steps must be taken, who will answer the call to wage the ultimate battle? We shall see soon, but for now it is time to ...

... no, it is not time to see whether Loranna is wandering around Skyrim in the typical Female RPG Hero Standard Unifrom. For one thing, she's pregnant, and for another, she only wears that outfit while in the House of Dibella, and for a third, even with Loranna's love of snow she isn't THAT foolish.

... Well okay, there was the outfit she wore in the snow in True Solunastra, but that was ... erm, ahh ...

LOCK ON!!!

(mutter mutter wiseguys always trying to pull things down into the gutter ...)

Loranna [1026] 

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