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The Elder Scrolls Forums _ Elder Scrolls Lore _ RP: Evening Star Parade

Posted by: Loranna Dec 27 2004, 06:32 PM

In the previous installment of this thread, Allerleirauh's and Arynel's rescue mission to Oblivion was succesful, and Master B restored to the world of Nirn, though he has yet to wake from the deep sleep which overtook him. The rescue came with cost, however, though with the coming of New Life, the price Allie paid was returned to her - with interest.

At Ghostgate, Reichi slew the werelioness Sehkmet after a brief but brutal battle, while at Vivec, Orion completed his escape from loutish captors in a submersible, and Maranda waited for the coming of Loranna that she could fulfill her master's wishes.

Loranna herself forged off alone, gathering information in Balmora to aid her own plans and journeying to the Fields of Kummu, dealing with the obstacles in her way ably enough. At Kummu, she knelt and prayed and had an epiphany, weakening the binding on her beloved Lady Azura still further - and Azura cursed her with the ashen skin of the Dunmer, for Loranna's methods had transgressed the bounds Azura set for her. Shaken, Loranna realized the full extent of the humility she had sought to learn to free her Lady.

Meanwhile, the main procession continues toward Ghostgate, the pretty Dunmer girl Aricyn talked into impersonating Loranna sitting high on the litter and acting as she imagines Azura to act - one poor wretch now bereft of his skin and in the bellies of the wild beasts attests to the girl's vision of the Prince of Moonshadow.

All this and much, much more has happened, and now the festival of New Life draws to a close, and once again everyone turns their eyes and their steps to Morrowind - the crippled, the mad, the cursed, the royal, the ambitious, and the merely present.

As always, mirc irc.ChatSpike.net channel #Loranna_RP is our official chatroom for the event. Everyone who plays is welcomed and encouraged to join the chat so that we may discuss plot developments and swap jokes about our characters Those who can't get into the chatroom are encouraged to PM Loranna about any plot ideas or scene-effecting actions they have in mind; I will try to answer you with all possible speed.

Part Twelve begins ...

Posted by: niceguy5 Dec 27 2004, 07:12 PM

The Alit was an easy hunt. Dane feasted on it, eating the innards first then sucking the blood out of it. The were-vamps ears twitched as it received a soft sound. Dane took his fangs out from the dead Alit, looking up into the diretcion of the sound. He looked at the space with his dull black eyes, featuring his fangs. After a moment pasted Dane started eating the Alit again, every now and then looking up to the noise.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 27 2004, 07:33 PM

*Erenius continued along his path towards Suran after stopping at a farmhouse to get a quick meal. He walked along his path again, watching the flora an fauna around him. Occasionally a rat would come and try to bother Erenius, but a quick toss of a bit of bread would generally shoo the rodents away.*

*After several hours of this, Erenius decides to take a spot on a hillock looking over Lake Amaya and simply sits there while preparing for the coming night*

*For Erenius, arriving durin the day would be best, despite being only an hour's walk from the town's western entrance by the Silt Strider*

Posted by: stratigo Dec 27 2004, 08:53 PM

Zaldaar sat quietly at the bar. He hadn't foreseen any of this. All was happening very fast. He feared he might have to take desicive action too soon.

Posted by: Aki Dec 27 2004, 11:47 PM

Morrowind Province, Vvardenfell District, Ebonheart

The ship slowly floated into port and docked without incident. Tarenen stepped off the boat after the plank was set down. The board creaking under the weight of his black steel plate armor. The rest of the hunters followed soon after. The board continued to creek as the heavily armored halberdirs and Swordsmen of the group came down, only stopping when the relativly lightly armored Archers came down.

Then they headed for vivec on foot. Horses couldn't surivive in Vvardenfel. The Flora was poisonous, the animal life dangerous, and the terrain treacherous.

Upon Arrival in Vivec, the Hunters headed towards the Temple Canton. They stopped at St. Delyn and stayed in the Abbey. There was no doubt that Loranna and her followers would head to Vivec soon enough.

And there was no way a crowd of folllowers wouldn't attract attention. The Townsfolk couldn't help but tell everyone if she came. Thats how peasants were.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 12:37 AM

Kasha is frozen in shock as the hooded man holds his sword towards her throat. The nasty, noxious rain continues to cover them both. Suddenly the man’s swords disappear in a flash of scarlet light. Kasha now truly sees the real intention of the man. The sword was a part of his hand, so she only saw that, and thought he was trying to attack her. But he was really outstretching his hand to help her up. Kasha hesitantly grabs the man’s hand and he helps her to her feet.

“Let me see your arm.” An aged, voice instructs from within the hood.

The man grabs Kasha’s right arm, over her wound, and in a few seconds the stinging, aching, pain Kasha was feeling in her arm, soothe down to a low whine.

Kasha looked at the man confused; she was speechless for the first time in a long while. Kasha watches wide-eyed as the man drops to one knee and touches Dur’el on the back. Then a blue, light shrouds Dur’el’s body, as a low, humming sound tickles the inside of Kasha’s ears. The man then lifts Dur’el onto his shoulders and rises back up.

“This one will be fine in a few hours,” He said motioning to Dur’el. “The other will wake in time, now hurry, we must seek cover from this rain.” The man says walking off.

“Wait!” Kasha yells finally getting a grip on the situation. “Who are you?”

The man turns around and takes off his hood, as another black, lighting bolt strikes the ground and illuminates the sky behind him.

“I thought it was obvious by now… I’m Dur’el.”

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 01:55 AM

Update:

The Void Vampire Bosriel and the black orc Void Ranger assassin Leseth are en route to Morrowind to spy on Loranna and Helseth (after a brief trip to the Wrothgarian Mountains to check on the preparations for setting Bosriel free from the Void).

The Queen of Wayrest Elysana is in Cyrodiil, about to continue her voyage to Morrowind with her fleet.

Her spymaster Ryvad Castellian is in Wayrest, finding all sorts of spies and double agents and reporting their activities to his liege. He has just found one very high up in court named Tirin.

Sheogorath is watching all, after unsuccessfully trying to tempt the crippled Tris with a new foot (disappointing since the replacement would have had very handsome toes).

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 02:40 AM

Allerleirauh - a tall, slim woman with silver hair - is presently at Solunastra, preparing to leave with Arynel, hopefully to return to Artaeum and check on Master B before rejoining Loranna's procession in Morrowind. Allerleirauh's goal is to prevent the Dunmer people from returning to the Chimer worship of daedra; but she sees little sign of that happening, so she is focusing on her secondary goal, the survival and welfare of Azura and Vehk's child, Sen-Yedda.

Tris (aka Mirror) - a handsome young Breton, with only one foot- and Ciel are traveling towards Morrowind. When last seen they were in Hammerfell. Now that Elysana thinks both of them are dead, it should be a little bit safer to travel by Mages' Guild, so hopefully they will arrive in Morrowind before too long. Tris is having to readjust his idea of himself now that he has only one foot; on the surface, he seems to be doing quite well.

Doll, the Akaviri maiden, after losing track of Solin, succeeded in the much more difficult task of following Loranna.

Mirea, the red-headed Bosmer girl, came home to Solunastra for the New Life holiday. She is still one of Allerleirauh's spies, but her usefulness is limited because Allerleirauh has instructed her Void Rangers not to travel through the Void until Bosriel is found and dealt with.

Dragon, an older Nord man, Allerleirauh's second in command, has returned to Solunastra after escorting Ciel through Hammerfell. During the journey he made use of his particular Void Ranger technique - the reason he's named Dragon, in fact. His job is overseeing the Guildhouse at Solunastra while Allie is away.

Skein, the seer of Solunastra, a mature Imperial woman, has been shaken recently by the discovery that her predictions are not always correct. This should not surprise her, as CHIM always makes people difficult to predict, and the folks in this roleplay are attaining to more and more of it. Nevertheless, Skein continues her work, which is studying the paths of power in the world, and advising Allerleirauh of where and when important events are happening, so that she can focus her attention there.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 03:18 AM

Summary for Loranna

Loranna is currently with Dagoth Lich, somewhere between the Fields of Kummu and Ghostgate. After her experience at the Shrine of Humility, Loranna spent the following day alternating between being very, very shaken about what had happened, being fearful for her friends in the events to come, and trying to determine if there was anything she could do to put her own recent ideas for making the reacceptance of Azura a little less hectic in motion. Currently, she is unaware of Doll's presence shadowing her, and she and Dagoth are slowly making their way back to the main procession, Loranna having abandoned her most recent plans to speak with people in Balmora for now and sensing that she should start heading back - though on foot for now rather than via magical means of transportation.

===

Wonder how Aricyn is doing, Loranna thinks as she and Dagoth leave the green areas of the Ascadian Isles behind and reenter the more blasted ground of the West Gash. Silly boy, having a closed mind and all; would be a lot easier if I could contact him, keep up with his movements ...

... of course, then I'd also have to deal with knowing his true intentions, as opposed to merely guessing that he's probably out to cause a whole lot of hurting I don't want to see, she reflects. Sigh ... he's still wanted for his talents and my Lady has points to make still, so there's not too much I can do ... well, I suppose I could talk to him, so long as I don't overstep my bounds, make sure he isn't being too foolish and boyish about this whole adventure ...

Loranna frowns and stops herself from pursuing this line of thought too much farther, not wishing to offer offense. Now stop it Loranna; you're not the sort of person to get like this ... remember, in the end, it's all going to work out; just hang in there till the end and do what you can to help everyone along, just like you've been trying to do ...

It was hard, though, not to feel that as things stood right now there'd be more pain and suffering than really had to be. Perhaps this was the only way things could happen - Prince Azura had to undo the binding on her own and the Dunmer had to face the fact that the Tribunal were now gone and their old gods were still here, waiting for them to return to the fold. Sometimes things could only happen the hard way - but she still didn't particularly enjoy seeing people suffer, as they have been since she began her journey.

It'll all work out in the end, she tells herself one more time, using her staff to help herself along as she walks on the broken and uneven ground. Just have to be strong enough to see this through ... She feels a pain in her foot and frowns; it seems the boots she bought for this journey were not quite as good as advertized.

... Sigh; oh well. At least the obscuring effect still works, and there's no Cliff Racers, Loranna thinks, looking over at Dagoth. And I do get to travel in good company for now, as well. I wonder if it's safe to kiss him again or if he'll be stunned for an hour like last time ...

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 03:21 AM

Summary for Erenius

Erenius had left the party, searching for answers, as well as trying to divert whomever was after him away from the party at the least. He chose to return to Balmora after the party advanced a third of the way along the Foyada Mamaea, then made an attempt to go to Pelagiad, but came to a crossroads, where he chose the Hlaalu city of Suran. He continued leisurely that way till he came to bandits, which he tricked by handing over lead coins with but a gold foil on them. Currently, Erenius is camping on a hillock above Lake Amaya near a farmer's house.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 03:36 AM

Summary:

Dur’el, Kasha, and Allimar have appeared in a strange land after being tricked by Molag Bal, himself, and put on deaths doorstep in a tomb close to Gnisis. They have met, and where rescued by a strange, Redguard claiming to be, the unconscious, Dur’el. Meanwhile in Morrowind a dangerous assassin, hunts the incarnate, led by a strange leader only known as "Lord".

----------------

The rain pounded the abandon cave as the storm grew worst outside. Kasha, her companions, and the man claiming to be Dur’el, all sat inside of the cave, in front of a blazing fire, that made their shadows dance, and twitch on the caves moist, walls.

Kasha stared at this man sitting across from her. The fire lit up his face and she could see every detail on it. She knew for a fact that this man was not Dur’el. Other then the fact, that Dur’el was lying right next to her, of course. The man was extremely aged, his skin sagged and drooped, his eyes looked worn as if he had gone without years of sleep, and there was a brutal, scar that blazed a trail on his face, from his left eyebrow down to his chin. The only resemblance this man had with Dur’el was that they were both Redguards.

Kasha then thought of Dur’el with his handsome and fierce features. Kasha knew that when Dur’el got older his face would still hold his exquisiteness, and that commanding toughness that she loved about him. This man had none of those features he looked far from handsome or even commanding, he looked dejected, conquered, and decaying; he looked as if he was already dead inside and out.

What had happened to make this man look the way he does? She didn’t know how, but Kasha was sure she would find out… Kasha’s thoughts quickly got pushed to the side, when her headache came back with a vengeance. Kasha painfully folds her head into her hands, and grimaces in pain.

The elderly, Redguard sitting across from Kasha looks up in grave, spirits at the sight of her in pain from a headache, like he knows the future and it didn’t look good for any of them.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 04:34 AM

As she and Dagoth travel, Loranna decides to check on a few of her companions, and lets her thoughts seek out Erenius, while maintaining her obscuring effect.

Erenius dear, where are you now? she asks.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 04:38 AM

*Erenius rose from his sleep soon as a voice invaded his mind*

'Yes? I be awake,' Erenius mumbles to Loranna. 'Who is this to be waking me as I try to sleep?'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 04:41 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Dec 27 2004, 10:28 PM)

*Erenius rose from his sleep soon as a voice invaded his mind*

'Yes? I be awake,' Erenius mumbles to Loranna. 'Who is this to be waking me as I try to sleep?'

Um, oops ... Erenius hears Loranna's voice echo in his mind.

Sorry; didn't stop to notice you were asleep first, her voice continues in Erenius's mind, sounding nonplussed, though in a way that seems to draw him in somehow.

... Er, anyway, I was just checking in with you, to ask how go things from your end and what news you may have, Loranna continues, making an effort to sound less embarrassed. How fare thee?

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 04:45 AM

'I am well,' Erenius replies. 'Albeit a tad tired, I'm just on a hillock by Lake Amaya. I was planning on enterring Suran tomorrow morn. I'm quite fine, thanks for asking.'

*Erenius stands for a moment and walks about, prepping a small fire for warmth*

'And I assume you are well to,' Erenius continues. 'Leading the party and all.'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 04:50 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Dec 27 2004, 10:35 PM)

Loranna is silent for a moment.

... I'm leading the party? she asks, and Erenius can virtually see her eyebrows raising. I must be more powerful than I realized; I've mastered the art of being in two places at once.

She chuckles slightly, then her tone grows more serious. I'm glad to hear you're all right; there ought not to be anyone looking for any of us in Suran, since there's little logical reason for me to be there. Ghostgate and Vivec are the places I'm expected to be now and soon, not Vvardenfell's most famous ... tavern.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 04:54 AM

'True,' Erenius says in response. 'But that wasnt why I was going there. Instead, I planned on going to Suran to prepare it as a waystation should you and the party wish to make a stop for a day or two. Last I checked we would need supplies while in this area.'

*Erenius would have made mention of his real reason for being in the area was the fact people were after his life, but decided against it, knowing Loranna likely had more important things to deal with than worry over the life of their logistics officer*

'Besides, I think Aricyn and the others would need a day or two,' Erenius continues. 'And it would be a good place to lay low for a short while and maybe throw off any persuers?'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 05:03 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Dec 27 2004, 10:44 PM)

True; the procession does eat a lot of food ... Loranna says, her tone slowly growing more sour.

... You know, now that you bring it up Erenius dear, it occurs to me that if Helseth wanted to move against us, the quietest and probably most effecient way would be to cut us off from getting supplies, she says. In that case, there's probably people in most major cities watching for any major buying of supplies ...

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 05:05 AM

'In retrospect then, I should have bought from the fort and not the establishments in Balmora,' Erenius says. 'Anyway, your alter-ego leading the party may be of issue...'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 05:11 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Dec 27 2004, 10:55 PM)

'In retrospect then, I should have bought from the fort and not the establishments in Balmora,' Erenius says. 'Anyway, your alter-ego leading the party may be of issue...'

True; we may wish to go through Imperial channels as much as possible, though the King likely has some sway in those as well, Loranna says.

... Tell me of this issue you foresee, she asks, her tone growing quieter.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 05:15 AM

'Well,' Erenius starts. 'To begin with, she has had a Dunmer man skinned alive already, and more may follow. And second of all, you, knowing better than I obviously, if this continues, it may do more harm than good.'

' 'Tis but a warning for you as to the one leading the procession,' Erenius says. 'And now you mention it, from whom DO we buy supplies from due to this? The Telvanni, or teh Redoran? I'd sooner stay away from Hlaalu due to Helseth's ties, but so long as we be here, it will be impossible...'

Posted by: Aki Dec 28 2004, 05:15 AM

Sumary- Reichi, the dunmer former Morang tong assasin, and current Werewolf slew a Werelioness at Ghostgate with the help of Dar'var, a Khajiit who had been ordered to kill Reichi and those with him after a battle in Skyrim in which many of the Were-beast Hunters died, Dar'var however has had a change of heart, infulenced by being with the people with a few days, and moonsugar...lots of it.

The Hunters have learned of this treachery and sent out a group of hunters, led by Tarenen, a odd breton man with Long black hair and icey pale blue eyes. Who seemed to be feared by those who serve him. They were tasked with killing Reichi and those with him as their primary mission, then to seek and destroy Dar'Var.

Dar'Var then proceeded to after some healing, grope a number of barmaid and get slapped multiple times, all while drunker than half the population of skyrim.

Reichi on the other hand insulted and berrated the Ghostgate armourer for his inability to repair his Dark Brotherhood armor...
-----------------------------------------------------------------
The Werelioness's skinned pelt was placed in the bar-area of the Tower of Dusk. While the Armigers corpses were going to be burned to ash outside within a few hours, the ash would be put in the ash pit at Ghostgate. The Crusader's body was going to be shipped to the nearest Imperial Cult shrine, as they would know what to do with him.

Reichi stood outside, watching as the Armiger's bodies were placed on stone slabs. The slab's top were blackened by fire, as they were made for this purpose specifically, and had been used before.

Dar'Var meanwhile, was testing out his leg, as it had finally fully healed with all the potions and spells helping. Still, there were scars eft in the leg from the Werelioness's fangs. Dar'Var didn't care too much. He was too happy he finally got that Werelioness. His Glass armor had been repaired but most of the enchantment of the greeves and the chestplate had been damaged. Content, he relaxed in the bar area of the Tower of Dusk. Cleaning and repairing his crossbow.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 05:23 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Dec 27 2004, 11:05 PM)

... It's disheartening to say, but to some degree that might actually have ... helped, Loranna says with layers of reluctance. The Dunmer expect their deities to be a bit ... firmer ... than I am. It is probably better to simply work to prevent such issues from arising at all, if at all possible; I may have to ask you to do this on your own, Erenius dear.

She sighs, and Erenius can detect a hesitancy in her voice as she continues.

... All of Morrowind is Helseth's domain, so no matter where we go we face thses issues, she sighs. For now, try buying from the Imperials since you're in Suran; we may wish to rest at a less noticable location though. Perhaps a Daedra Shrine, cleared out ...

She pauses again, and replies ... Anyway, stay safe Erenius; you are a true friend and I cannot thank you enough for everything you're doing ...

Her voice fades slowly.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 05:26 AM

'It is not a problem,' Erenius says finally. 'I am helping merely for the sake of such, and I shall do so till whenever I am needed no longer.'

*With that, Erenius stops, puts his fire out and goes to sleep for the few hours remaining till dawn arrives*

Posted by: Nalion Dec 28 2004, 07:14 AM

Foyada Mamaea

The foyada seemed to stretch out forever, winding its way up to Red Mountain and the Ghostgate.
Nalion walked slowly on the steadily rising terrain, invisible to prying eyes, and most important for the present time, to cliffracers.
He was still a way behind the main party heading for Ghostgate, but he hoped to catch up soon.

The Breton mage had spent the last days pondering about his own past, getting a feeling that some matters had to be dealt with sooner or later. The invisibilty had other reasons, though, too. In Balmora, Erenius had told him that the group of Reavers they defeated earlier in Skyrim was more organized than it seemed firsthand. Given his involvement in the fight, he figured that this Colovian woman Apinia might be after him, too.
He had continued practicing his "senses" by aid of the Dagger of Senses - given to him by the Speaker in a recent adventure - on some occasions, as he hoped it would help him a bit when facing the future.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 07:17 AM

The elderly Redguard begins to look Kasha over in the ginger, ruby light of the fire, while she cringes with a splitting headache that feels like it will snap her head in two. His mind then beings to bounce, to random thoughts all at once, like a rubber ball thrown in a small sided room. The elder then begins to talk to himself or Kasha, Kasha didn’t know which, and she didn’t think he knew which, either.

“No, the headaches are coming too soon… Why this early…? It can’t be time already, can it…? Then I must hurry… there is much to do.”

Kasha looks up at the man, as his face contorts, in the shadow of the fire light. Through Kasha’s watered eyes it looks like he is smiling sinisterly… and maybe he is. “What do you know about my headaches?” Kasha says massaging her temples.

Before the Redguard can answer a small moan comes from Kasha’s right side… Dur’el was waking up.

Things are about to get interesting.

Posted by: Marquis Dec 28 2004, 07:40 AM

Summary of Events-
Phyrdalion stayed in Balmora for a while after the ball. He then decided it was about time that he went to Ebonheart to speak with some of the high ranking knights and priests. This is where we find him.
_____

Phyrdalion stepped off the boat, his armor glistening from the sea spray, his face wearied. He heaved his pack onto his shoulder, and walked up into the square. stood at the dragon statue and looked around, taking in the majesty of the citidel, and catching his breath before he went to the inn. "Alright, remember, you are the Marquis now. If you can't impress these common folk, what chance do you have with the highest knights on Vvardenfell?" Phyrdalion took a deep breath, and walked into the inn. He put his pack on the ground. He looked up and smiled at the innkeeper. His face seemed to be almost alight with a sense of nobility. He stood high, and his eyes had the look of a proud eagle. "Have you any rooms?" asked Phyrdalion, in perfect Cyrodiilic, no accent present.

The innkeeper looked at him with a look of surprise and reverence. "Shouldn't you be staying in the governor's mansion?" asked the innkeeper, putting down a mug he had been drying "You're not the type we usually get in here, I don't know that our rooms would be to your liking." the innkeeper looked up at Phydalion and into his light blue eyes.

"Your rooms will suit me fine." said Phyrdalion, moving closer to the small man "How much will it be?" he asked, putting his hand on the counter, the intricate gold and silver designs catching the light.

"One such as yourself humbles this small establishment. You are welcome to stay for free." the innkeeper took down the key to the finest room. "It's downstairs, please, make yourself at home."

"Thank you." said Phyrdalion, as he gave a small bow to the innkeeper. "Your courtesy in most appreciated, and will not go unnoticed." Phyrdalion picked up his pack and came down to his room. He opened the door, and found a dunmer sitting on his bed, smiling.

The Mer wore a set of glass armor, custom tailored with special spidersilk fabric to be more strong yet more flexible than the normal. He had red hair, but it was streaked black with some type of foreign dye. His eyes were red like every other dunmer, but his seemed to have an eerie glow to them, like coals that never went out. His hair was tied back, in an imperial style, with the hair tied at an angle coming off his head. Around the crown of his head, he had an ornate gold band inset with emeralds. His ears were decorated with mithril bands. On the back of his hand there was a scar the he had carved himself, bearing the sign Mephala. "Well, it has been a while, now, hasn't it, Phyrdalion?" asked the dunmer, swinging himself out of the bed and onto his feet in one fluid motion. "You look well."

"Mharakin..." said Phyrdalion, closing the door behind him "Yes, it has. Not quite long enough though, last time I saw you, you were looking at me through the bars of the Imperial city's prison." Phydalion put down his sack, and began to undo his armor.

"Yes, I recall you telling me you had made a mistake, but that you couldn't change it. Well, they found out about your mistake, and I hear they expelled you for it." Mharakin watched as Phyrdalion unstrapped his armor. He grabbed a knife which he had concealed in his bracer and whipped it toward Phyrdalion, cutting through the golden thread which was holding up his hair, and dropping three pieces of hair. "Three hairs, one for each year. Now you have been forgiven."

Phyrdalion put his hand to his head, and smiled "Three years did nothing to your touch, did it? You're still the deadliest with a knife." Phyrdalion sat on the bed and undid his boots. "So why have you come here?"

"Rumors my friend. Many, many rumors. Some people say that Azura has come to Morrowind. It would be foolish of me to meddle in the affairs of the Daedra, of course, but Mephala has commanded it, she asks that I watch, and make certain that this cause will be of her benefit." Mharakin pulled his dagger out of the wall. "Besides, after rotting in prison for three years and watching those wretched imperials, I needed to return home. I assure you, it is much different from when I left. So why are you here? Still on your fool's errand?"

"I'm afraid not my good man. I came as a mercenary after my expulsion. But now, I'm not sure why I am here. I have sworn my life to a Daedra, I have watched my mentor die, I have seen the might of god's, and after all of it, I do not know why I linger." Phyrdalion looked down, his hair falling around his face, waving down like fine silk. "I am here also for Azura, to be sure that she suceeds, and to protect the vessel in which she dwells."

"But why Ebonheart? It doesn't seem like the place for a Daedra prince." Mharakin leaned in a corner, sheathing his dagger again.

"I do not travel with Azura now, she has departed on her own for her current pilgrimage, and I am taking the time to discuss certain issues with some of the higher priests and knights here, and to ensure their alliance." Phyrdalion stood and opened the door "And now, I must be going, I have much to attend to, and little time. We shall speak later."

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 08:22 AM

(NEAR GHOSTGATE:)

Aricyn looked up at the rising mountain. Once its peak had been obscured by the roaring winds of the Blight, but now white clouds floated lazily over it's sides, and a surprisingly blue sky greeted his eye. The huge pale pillars of the Ghostfence could be seen standing high on the mountainside, the magical fence gone; unnecessary since the coming of the Nerevarine.

The trumpets of Azura's procession echoed down the foyada, heralding the arrival of the Incarnate at Ghostgate.

For a moment, the helmed man who stood just inside the Gate considered answering with his company's own trumpets... but no, he wanted to see the looks on their faces. Kaeso Plautius, Captain of the 123rd Imperial Legion, had brought his men all the way from Ebonheart, he deserved to see that, at least.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 08:31 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 27 2004, 08:08 PM)

Doll: approaching Ghostgate

Doll had been watching Loranna ever since she had left the party. She had seen Loranna deal with the King's spy; she had seen her kneel at the shrine; she had seen her skin become ashen; she had seen her rejoin Dagoth Lich.

Doll was proud of herself. Her legs might be short, and she couldn't travel very fast, but she was good at one thing - being inconspicuous. It started with the thoughts. You had to think the thoughts of a flower, or a guar, or a cliff racer. Well, maybe not a cliff racer. Loranna tended to notice those. She didn't notice the rocks under her feet, or the clouds over her head. Being a cloud was fun. She was a good spy.

She hadn't learned the most important thing a spy needs to know, though, which is that something always goes wrong. In her case it was a sprained ankle. It was quickly set right with a few gulps of healing potion, but the shrieking pain in her foot gave her away as clearly as if she'd yelled out loud.

Posted by: Nalion Dec 28 2004, 08:38 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 07:12 AM)

(NEAR GHOSTGATE:)

The trumpets of Azura's procession echoed down the foyada, heralding the arrival of the Incarnate at Ghostgate.

The brassen sound of trumpets that echoed down the foyada stirs a cliffracer that is just flying over the Foyada. It answers with a loud shriek, then flees.

Nalion, who is wandering up the Foyada also hears the sound and quickens his step. Turning around a slight bend in the Foyada, the mage perceives the rearguard of the false Loranna's entourage. The invisibility wears off in short time as he brushes some ash from his his shoulders. Intent on learing what a whole imperial Legion is doing up here, he rejoins the party and moves to the van.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 08:38 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 02:21 AM)

Approaching Ghostgate

Loranna leans on her staff, waiting for Dagoth to finish dealing with some Cliff Racers they had spied ahead of them. Given everything that happened, Dagoth really needed to be the knight gallant, or so Loranna surmised, and with a simple request that he spare them if he could - and make their deaths painless if he couldn't - Loranna waited, watching him go forth to defend her from more welts and bruises and other Cliff Racery aggrevation.

Her eyes narrow as she suddenly feels Doll's brief burst of pain and her thoughts reach out; Doll feels Loranna's attention alight on her quickly ...

... Doll!? Loranna says, her mental voice a mix of fear, surprise, and concern. What in Oblivion's name are you doing out here dear?

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 08:42 AM

*At the Ghostgate*
Kaeso Plautius signalled for the gate to be opened slightly. After a quick pause to compose himself, strode out to meet the group that had formed at the Ghostgate.

"By order of the King of Morrowind, I command you to lay down your weapons and surrender peacfully. Non compliance will be dealt with by deadly force."

The gates opened slightly more allowing two dozen fully armed Imperial troops to emerge.

"Do not make this harder than it has to be."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 08:46 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 01:28 AM)

Doll's mouth dropped open. But she recovered quickly.

"I was looking for you!" she said brightly, canceling her invisibility spell so that Loranna could see her. She was promptly dive-bombed by a cliff racer. "OW! I hate you!" she screamed at the furry lizard-like flying creature, launching several fireballs at it. It crashed to the ground beside her, incinerated and smelling of burnt fur.

Doll bowed to Loranna and Dagoth Lich. She was still wearing her netch leather armor; now she removed the helmet so that they could see her pretty, round face.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 08:47 AM

*Near Loranna's group, on the way to the Ghostgate*
All of a sudden, a strange noise could be heard coming from over a nearby hill. It almost sounds as though a group of children are crying...

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 08:47 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 02:32 AM)

The priests in the lead of the Incarnate's procession were already cursing and yelling at the Imperial officer when Aricyn made his way to the front. The Incarnate, veiled and sitting high on her palanquin, followed close behind.

"Surrender?" he said to the Captain, distinctly NOT laying down his weapon, "Were we doing something wrong?"

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 08:51 AM

Loranna's mouth falls open at the explanation Doll offers, and falls even further open as she hears the sound of children crying - the sight of Doll blasting a Cliff Racer to a crisp with such innocent gusto adding a distinctly nonplussed look to her eyes.

" ... Were you now ..." Loranna says, looking over at Dagoth, and then the hill from which the sound of children crying could be heard.

" ... Er, hold that thought Doll dear; is your ankle all right or do you need more healing?" Loranna asks, her throughts reaching out to seek out the source of the crying.

Now this is an odd collection of coincidences; I wonder who set them up if anyone, Loranna thinks with a sinking feeling in her stomach.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 08:56 AM

*At the Ghostgate*
"Section 4 part II of the agreed apon Armistice with the Empire clearly states that any group deemed a threat to the sanctity of the Tribunal or King shall be disbursed forthwith. This -group- you have formed has been deemed as such by the King, and must therefore surrender your weapons."

The group of Imperials start advancing.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Dec 28 2004, 09:00 AM

Vivec, High Fane
24, Evening Star

Curiously, a council of Temple leaders was currently taking place. They sat in a circular fashion as had been done for hundreds of years, discussing Temple matters in the yellow room. In the middle of the circle a dais was raised, but it had not been used for some time. Suddenly, with a flash of white light appeared someone the councilors did not expect. There stood Archcanon Tholer Saryoni, a masterful Dunmer. No longer did he seem bent and old. By some force his vigor and part of his youth had returned.

“Archcanon!”

“By the Tribunal, why have you come?”

“I have come to say what I might, and then perhaps leave again. I hope you will all listen, for my words carry the most dire importance.”

“Speak then!”

“What are you doing here?” Saryoni began,
“Wherefore have you forgotten your youth, and the creativity that drove you to forge this great nation? In replace of innovation, you give us rigidity and dogma. A revolution turned upside down will only yield more, until the land is bled dry, with nothing but the wind, and the curse of Almsivi on its lips.

Like you, I was guilty of yielding to the easy path – trusting that Ayem, Vehk, and Seht would lead us into a gilded future. For some time we were correct in this argument. But now they are dead. There is no use denying which has come to pass, and the root of our problems here lies in our self-deception. The People! The Dunmer People are not aware, but they feel something is lost within them. They carry their heads downward, like a dutiful widow, mourning the loss of a beloved husband. The wounds of these lands must be mended. Let us not forget the lessons the Nerevarine has taught us. We are not always correct, and the future is veiled.

I have spent the past months searching Morrowind, there is one who will revive us, one who will strengthen us, and one who may usher us in the next stage of our religion. I speak of Loranna, and I myself have watched her from afar. It is said she carries the child of Vivec. Like a living vessel of godliness, she has been given the mark of the Dunmer, and performed such tasks which reveal herself the Incarnate.” A gasp broke from the seated Dunmer. They began to converse within themselves.

“A child of Vehk?”

“A scion of the Sword?”

“It is impossible!”

“Possible, again we have reached this question. Today I will not deal in possibilities and impossibilities. I deal in certainties. There may be a set of prophecies concerning this vessel, upon the Elder Scrolls we can look not. Again, I must implore you. If Vivec, or his reincarnation is to be born, hope will return to Morrowind. A living God we will have. And the love which has from time to time touched us all, will return. Here the Tribunal Council speaks of erroneous matters. The proper length of Temple Services, the yearly charity budget – we must return faith to the Temple! The consequences of forgoing this miracle would be disastrous on such scales as our refusal to accept the Nerevarine, and our acceptance of the rampant liberalism now inherent in our society. Let us amend our ways and learn from the past. We will no longer be like walking shadows but rather guiding lights. In the end the people will rejoice, our temple will be reborn.”

One more elder, and gnarled member of the council slowly stood, and spoke, “Do you suggest that we should turn control of the Temple to some barbarian nord woman, who has shown herself able to do but a few parlor tricks? This is heresy!”

“Is it? I consider Heresy to consist of slowly watching while the Temple wilters into nothingness. The lack of any ability to listen to reason while the world changes. There must be no higher crime.”

By now the general mood of the Council had shifted, “What is to be done?” they asked.

“Send out the Armigers, so that they might safely find Loranna, and protect her, for she has created a mass of enemies. Eventually she will be brought back in safety here to Vivec.”

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 09:02 AM

Dur’el had been in a deep sleep, one that he probably wouldn’t have woken from, if it wasn’t for the help of the old Redguard. Dur’el’s last thoughts were of the tomb and the Daedra, so he expected to wake up to complete obscurity or paradise filled with nude Redguard women, with colossal backsides. So you can imagine his surprise when he woke up in a damp, reeking, arctic, cave, with Kasha to his left, flabby Allimar to his right, and a fossil of a Redguard, eyeing him from across a poor excuse for a fire.

So Dur’el sat up, noticed he was feeling better, took in his surrounds, looked at his chest and arm, which held long scars, even though they had been healed, and said a comment only he would say in a situation like this.

“Let me get a; huh? With a side order of; what in the name of Ruptga is going on? And don’t forget the extra; who is this, s'wit?”

After Dur’el spoke the whole cave silenced, even the rain outside slacked, as if it knew something monumental had just happened. Kasha was speechless once again, but it wasn’t because of Dur’el’s comment. It was because when he was saying it, the old Redguard was reciting it, word for word, right with him.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 09:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 01:41 AM)

"I'm fine," Doll said. "Do you hear that? What are children doing in Vvardenfell? Maybe we've found where they hide them all."

She scampered up the hill, offering a hand to help Loranna up with her.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 09:03 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 02:46 AM)

"Alright," says Aricyn with a charming smile, "If it says, and I'm quoting you of course, for I've never read "it" myself, that such a group must be dispersed, we'll disperse.

"The lady here and myself were intending to travel on up the mountain to the shrine, and the rest of these fine folks," he says, eyeing a fuming priest, "shall stay here.

"Now, see? That satisfies the law, and we can all be happy and see our grandchildren."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 09:07 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 02:52 AM)

"I'm fine," Doll said. "Do you hear that? What are children doing in Vvardenfell? Maybe we've found where they hide them all."

She scampered up the hill, offering a hand to help Loranna up with her.

" ... Doll, wait!" Loranna says, grasping the girl's hand and trying to hold her back. "There's not just children in that group over the hill!"

More than that; there's chaos in their minds ... Loranna adds to herself, trying to sort out everything ...

"Let's do this cautiously dear; renew your invisibility but leave your thoughts open to me; Dagoth, cloak yourself as well. I'll keep my thoughts open to the crowd to discern their intent, and together we'll approach - and be wary; Ordinators are in this group, and I've given the Temple few reasons to like me."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 09:10 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 01:57 AM)

" ... Doll, wait!" Loranna says, grasping the girl's hand and trying to hold her back. "There's not just children in that group over the hill!"

More than that; there's chaos in their minds ... Loranna adds to herself, trying to sort out everything ...

"Let's do this cautiously dear; renew your invisibility but leave your thoughts open to me; Dagoth, cloak yourself as well. I'll keep my thoughts open to the crowd to discern their intent, and together we'll approach - and be wary; Ordinators are in this group, and I've given the Temple few reasons to like me."

"Right," Doll said. "I'll go and scout then."

She renewed her invisibility and trotted over the hill, out of Loranna's hearing.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:12 AM

"Just staying here is not enough. They must surrender their weapons and return to their homes, as per the definition of disperse. You will also surrender your weapons if you wish to travel through the Ghostgate. Do not delay, or you will feel the full force of the Imperial Legion."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 09:15 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 03:00 AM)

"Right," Doll said. "I'll go and scout then."

She renewed her invisibility and trotted over the hill, out of Loranna's sight.

Loranna looks to Dagoth, squeezing his hand. " ... Peaceful if at all possible; there's actual children around," she says, her mind still wondering why there is a group of children and Ordinators so close to them - and how she didn't hear them earlier than this ...

... Remember, you're not invincible, Loranna, she tells herself curtly. Doll just gave you another lesson in humility; accept it and deal with this situation. ... And try not to get any children killed this time ...

Renewing her own obscuring effects, and accepting what protections Dagoth insists on casting on her, Loranna cautiously moves forward, but only a little ways, waiting to hear from Doll ...

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:17 AM

Doll travels over the hill and sees three Ordinators standing a few feet away from a group of five or so children huddled on the ground crying. At the feet of the Ordinators lie the bodies of two more children, obviously dead. The Ordinators talk amongst themselves before cautiously walking towards the group of children.

As Doll watches, one of the kids makes a run for it. The Ordinators react and chase after the child, catching them easily and cutting the small boy down with their swords.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 09:17 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 03:02 AM)

"So what you're saying," says Aricyn, raising his thundrous voice so all present can clearly hear, "is that King Helseth has sent you, the IMPERIAL Guard, to demand that these people cease worshipping their ancestral gods, and return peacefully to their homes?

"You are saying," he says, his voice raising even more, "that you IMPERIALS have been sent by King Helseth to stop this lady from progressing on Vivec's holy pilgrimage?"

The reaction from the crowd behind Aricyn is less of a murmer and more of a roar.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 09:22 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 02:07 AM)

Doll travels over the hill and sees three Ordinators standing a few feet away from a group of five or so children huddled on the floor crying. At the feet of the Ordinators lie the bodies of two more children, obviously dead. The Ordinators talk amongst themselves before cautiously walking towards the group of children.

As Doll watches, one of the kids makes a run for it. The Ordinators react and chase after the child, catching them easily and cutting the small boy down with their swords.

Doll replaced her helmet. She felt strangely calm, for this was not the first time she had seen children so treated. She cast sanctuary on herself; she cast levitation. Then she flew over the heads of the men and shouted down at them.

"HEY! What are you doing?"

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 09:27 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 03:12 AM)

Loranna's reaction is a little less calm than Doll's, as images of SnowHawk flash through her mind ...

.... What ... why ... she asks herself. Why are Dunmer ... killing children ...

Then, she senses Doll's reaction, and she hisses a warning: Careful Doll; remember whatever hurt Arynel is still loose ...

Loranna moves a little closer, her thoughts reaching out toward the guards, waiting to see Doll's reaction. Maybe we can make them chase you and then confudle their minds, and get the kids away before they recover ... she suggests.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:27 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 05:37 PM)

"I have my orders. If you don't like them, feel free to send the King a complaint."

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 09:32 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 03:17 AM)

"I have my orders. If you don't like them, feel free to send the King a complaint."

"Now, now," Aricyn says loundly, turning to the crowd behind him, "there's no need to get angry at these loyal servants of the Empire, they're just following the king's orders. I'm sure they'll be reasonable."

Privately, Aricyn hoped they would. He looked at the number of legionaires before him behind the gate. Yes, they could probably take them, but it would cost them dearly. He had no intention of having all of Loranna's followers slaughtered in her absence.

"Send a complaint, eh? What a wonderful idea.

"Why don't you run back and tell him that he's pissing in his own ale here, then?

"Well just be on about our business of pilgrimage."

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:32 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 05:42 PM)

"What we are doing is none of your business, fetcher. Do not interfere." With that, the Ordniators turn back towards the children.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 09:37 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 02:22 AM)

"What we are doing is none of your business, fetcher. Do not interfere." With that, the Ordniators turn back towards the children.

"Right," Doll said, and cast one of her favorite spells at the group of Ordinators. It would weaken their resistence to magicka, drain their strength, and paralyse them. Hopefully if any resisted paralysis, they would be too burdened by their own armor to do anything useful.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:40 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 05:52 PM)

"It is not my job to run your errands, for you aren't the King. Regardless, you must comply.

"Take their weapons."

With that, the Imperials draw their swords and more towards the group. Another 15 soldiers appear from behind the gate, incase things get ugly.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 09:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 03:27 AM)

"Right," Doll said, and cast one of her favorite spells at the group of Ordinators. IT would weaken their resistence to magicka, drain their strength, and paralyse them. Hopefully if any resisted paralysis, they would be too burdened by their own armor to do anything useful.

Loranna makes a mental note to start asking the people around her to teach her some more magic, being rather impressed by Doll's spell.

Dagoth, work with that, she tells her lich lover. Use a burden effect on their armor to keep them weighed down.

Loranna, meanwhile, turned her thoughts to the children, as she and Dagoth made their way to the action. We're going to need to get the kids out of here, but if Ordinators are after them, then where can we take them? And how to get them back to their homes if possible ... stop it; one thing at a time. First the guards ...

Loranna's thoughts wrap around on of the guard's mind, trying to discern why they were killing kids.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 09:45 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 03:30 AM)

Much to Aricyn's surprise, the next voice heard was not his own.

The veiled lady on the palanquin spoke commandingly, "YOU WILL CEASE THIS MADNESS! We shall pass freely, or your bodies shall act as a carpet for Our holy procession."

Aricyn never ceased to be amazed by the girl.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:46 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 05:57 PM)

The spell hits the Ordinators and fizzes and dies, leaving them unaffected. One of the Ordinators pulls out a small crossbow and fires at Doll, missing by a few inches. "Do not interfere. This is your last warning."

Posted by: Nalion Dec 28 2004, 09:51 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 08:30 AM)

Nalion had managed to reach the van and had listened intently to the "chat" Aricyn and the Imperial commander had so far.

The growing anger behind the crowd begins to unquiet him, and he unconsciously fingers the dagger of senses. A strange tickle of danger itches in the back of his head and runs down his spine.
The Breton mage has no intention to join a battle on these slopes, still, he has no intention to give up his weapons either.
Sighing audibly, he prepares some of his spells.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 09:55 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 06:05 PM)

"Do not threaten the authority of the King, or you *will* face the full force of the Legion"

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 10:02 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 03:45 AM)

"Do not threaten the authority of the King, or you *will* face the full force of the Legion"

Aricyn opened his mouth to speak, but again, the young girl behind the veil cut him off.

"And YOU, mortal, should not threaten the authority of AZURA! This is MY land, not the land of that fool you call king.

"I give you this choice, bow before me or face the wrath of Vvardenfel."

Aricy smiled at the officer, his brain trying to work quickly. The girl certainly played the part, but at this exact moment, that might not be the very best thing to do.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 10:05 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 03:36 AM)

Loranna blinks, seeing two powerful spells simply fizzle - and her thoughts hear little save a single-minded devotion to duty that leaves her wondering if what she's facing is truly mer or something less.

... Doll dear, back off ... she says, sighing. ... Dagoth, new plan; try to whisk the children away while I get their attention ...

Loranna crests the hill and calls down to the Ordinators "What's going on here? Since when do Temple warriors slay children?"

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 10:12 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 06:22 PM)

"I see you have chosen poorly. I hoped to avoid this, but you leave me no choice. LEGION! FORM UP!"

With that command, the remaining 100 or so legion soldiers emerge from the Ghostgate with their weapons drawn.

"I hope you now see the folly of your ways."

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 10:25 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 06:25 PM)

"As I told that other S'wit, this is none of your business. Move off and let us finish our work."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 10:27 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:15 AM)

"As I told that other S'wit, this is none of your business. Move off and let us finish our work."

"If your work is killing children, then I'm afraid you've a problem."

Three good-sized rocks suddenly rise and fly toward the Ordinators, to smack into their heads and sword hands.

" ... Namely, I'm not letting it happen - so let them go!"

Loranna prays her act catches the guards attention and lets Dagoth get the kids out of here ...

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 10:35 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 06:47 PM)

A lucky hit with the rock directly into the face plate of one of the Ordinators knocks him to the ground, unconscious. Another rock hits the sword hand of the second Ordinator causing him to drop his sword. The third rock hits the sword arm of the last Ordinator, but he maintains his grip on the sword. "You'll regret that" growled the last Ordinator, advancing towards Loranna.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 10:41 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:25 AM)

Loranna doesn't bother to mention she already regrets this - she can feel herself wanting to do more than just bash this guy on the head once or twice to make him stop being a lout, and to draw blood ...

... No; I'm protecting the children, not murdering guards, she tells herself, frowning.

With one guard down and one disarmed, Loranna turns her attention to the third, the one advancing on her. She snaps her staff out, as though to take up a defensive stance, but then she suddenly rolls the weapon onto the ground.

The staff barely leaves her hand when it suddenly flies up and rams itself at the Ordinator's calves, with enough force to bowl over a Kagouti, as Loranna steps back and to the side to avoid his sword. Once the staff mows the guard over, it comes back to rap him on the head once before returning to Loranna's hand.

Loranna checks to make sure the guards are all out of the picture for the moment and the kids safely whisked off by her companions.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 10:44 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:02 AM)

Aricyn opened his mouth, and mouthed the words, "Now gentlemen..." but his voice could not be heard. An odd wailing, moaning call echoed through the valley. Aricyn had heard it's like before. It sounded like the shell war-horn of an Ashlander, but it would have to be made from the shell of a bug the size of the mountain, or... a LOT of them.

When the Blight had been cleared from Red Mountain, the Ashland tribes had taken full advantage of the new land, and moved on to the holy mountain. Now they lined the hilltops of their new home. Not some of them, all of them. On every outcropping, every cliff, every peak, stood countless Ashlanders. Their faces hidden behind masks and resin goggles, long, barbed spears in their hands, they stood silent and silhouetted against the sky.

Liris's agents had told them that their Prince, Azura, had returned, and they had come to see for themselves.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 10:51 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 03:31 AM)

Doll flashed through the Void. Surely the strange predator there would not get here if she moved quickly enough. She moved into the midst of the soldiers and grasped two children by the arms, then ran with them.

She cast her levitation spells on the children and hoisted them high into the air.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 10:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 07:11 PM)

The remaining Ordinator tried to pick up his sword, but his hand was broken. He moved towards the remaining child weaponless anyway.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 10:59 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:47 AM)

The remaining Ordinator tried to pick up his sword, but his hand was broken. He moved towards the remaining child weaponless anyway.

The Ordinator's sword is suddenly at his throat, and Loranna says from ten feet away "That's far enough."

Dagoth, covered in an illusion, quickly whisks the last child away, as Loranna holds the sword with telekenesis at the only conscious guard's throat.

" ... I'll not mince words; what the hell are you three doing out here," she says curtly.

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 11:00 AM

The Void

The structures in the Wrothgarian Mountains had been an impressive sight indeed. It was obvious that the Queen of Wayrest was keeping her promise to Bosriel, the Void Vampire. Soon they would be completed. Soon she would be free. If Elysana didn’t learn the truth about Ciel and Tris, and the mercy that had been shown them.

Now Leseth and Bosriel were in the east.

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 04:41 AM)

Bosriel’s red eyes narrowed, and her dark face assumed the natural aspect of the predator.

‘There is something warm-blooded in the Void,’ she whispered.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:09 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 07:04 PM)

"What is the meaning of this!" demanded Kaeso, looking at the large number of Ashlanders that suddenly appeared. "What is your purpose here?" He called out to the Ashlanders.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:14 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 07:19 PM)

"We were following orders of the King." growled the Ordinator. "You are messing with things that you don't understand. You don't know what you did, do you?"

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 11:15 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:04 AM)

"We were following orders of the King." growled the Ordinator. "You are messing with things that you don't understand. You don't know what you did, do you?"

Loranna raises her eyebrows. "Indulge me; what did I just do?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 11:15 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:04 AM)

"We were following orders of the King." growled the Ordinator. "You are messing with things that you don't understand. You don't know what you did, do you?"

"We'll know if you tell us," Doll said. "Little children can't do anything to deserve death though. So aren't these really children?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 11:17 AM

The Void

Bosriel was always hungry. She had fed just a few hours before on the blood of a child in Skyrim she had lured from his bed by telekinetically sliding his favorite toy into the corner of his room where she could reach him. But still she wrinkled her nose as she smelled the scene she was witnessing.

‘There is some blood here I would not drink,’ she said to Leseth.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 11:19 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 04:59 AM)

"What is the meaning of this!" demanded Kaeso, looking at the large number of Ashlanders that suddenly appeared. "What is your purpose here?" He called out to the Ashlanders.

The Ashlanders were silent.

The veiled girl on the palanquin spoke loudly, though, "They come to praise their Prince!"

Almost as one, the Ashlanders stamped the butts of their spears on the rocks. The sound was amazing.

"See now who's land this is, mortal?" she said to the Captain.

"Well," said Aricyn, "I think this is your cue to march home."

"NO! Said the veiled girl. "Here is the Shrine of Pride. Pride in defeating the enemies of the Dunmer people! I would honor that shrine, and before us lie enemies! WE SHOULD LIGHT THE MOUNTAINSIDE WITH THEIR FUNERAL PYRES!"

The crowd behind her roared, and the warhorns sounded again.

Aricyn gave the Imperial Captain a private, concerned look.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 11:24 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Dec 28 2004, 05:07 AM)

The Void
‘There is some blood here I would not drink,’ she said to Leseth.

(THE VOID:)

Leseth folded his arms and hung quietly in the Void, watching.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:25 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 07:35 PM)

Loranna raises her eyebrows. "Indulge me; what did I just do?"

"Look" replied the Ordinator

As the children left the Anti-Magic area near the Ordinators, a slight change took effect. "Thank you!" exclaimed one of the children, in a strange voice. A strange aura appeared around the children and suddenly a Dremora materializes in the clearing.

"They are puppets of Dagon..." was all the Ordinator said before being cut in half by the summoned Daedra. The remaining unconscious Ordinators were also killed by the Dremora.

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 11:28 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:15 AM)

The remaining unconscious Ordinators were also killed by the Dremora.

Though one of the Ordinators seemed to be curiously bloodless, like a hollow husk.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 11:30 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:15 AM)

" ... And you didn't think to tell us when we showed up ..." Loranna says with a distinct Mortals Are Idiots tone of voice ...

" ..." she glares at the Dremora, and tells Doll and Dagoth All right; this, we can banish, but the kids ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 11:32 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 05:20 AM)

" ..." she glares at the Dremora, and tells Doll and Dagoth All right; this, we can banish, but the kids ..."

'The innocence of the children,' smiled Bosriel, her lips red with the blood of the Ordinator. She turned to Leseth, 'We are only to watch, yes?'

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 11:33 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 04:20 AM)

" ... And you didn't think to tell us when we showed up ..." Loranna says with a distinct Mortals Are Idiots tone of voice ...

" ..." she glares at the Dremora, and tells Doll and Dagoth All right; this, we can banish, but the kids ..."

"You made a mistake!" Doll said. "Daedra are easier to fight than children!"

She floated backwards. Dremora could reflect magic, so she didn't use magic. Instead she increased her own strength and accuracy with a spell, then thrust at the one nearest her with her glass shortblade.

Posted by: Nalion Dec 28 2004, 11:36 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 10:09 AM)

"NO! Said the veiled girl. "Here is the Shrine of Pride. Pride in defeating the enemies of the Dunmer people! I would honor that shrine, and before us lie enemies! WE SHOULD LIGHT THE MOUNTAINSIDE WITH THEIR FUNERAL PYRES!"

Nalion starts, eyeing the false "Incarnate" warily and frowning at her. He unconsciously touches his dagger.

"It is easy to pretend to be a ruler and it is easy to show pride. But are you capable of bearing the consequences your actions bring? False pride has brought to death more people than you might know.

Funeral fires might burn brightly today on these slopes. And soon, funeral pyres will light up brightly in whole Morrowind. And it will not only be Imperials that burn... Do not easily forsake something that has saved the life of thousands of your own people and brought peace to Morrowind." Nalion mutters, but audible enough to be heard by this "Incarnate".

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 11:37 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Dec 28 2004, 05:22 AM)

'The innocence of the children,' smiled Bosriel, her lips red with the blood of the Ordinator. She turned to Leseth, 'We are only to watch, yes?'

(THE VOID:)

"The young one is one of us, Little One, but she is young. If the need arises, we may intervene.

"I don't believe that a dremora would taste very good, though," Leseth added with a black smile.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:39 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 07:53 PM)

The blade cut deep, causing the Dremora to fall over and become consumed by flame. Another Dremora materialized to take it's place. There were three now, one for each child, and they were advancing towards the group.

Posted by: Meridia Dec 28 2004, 11:43 AM

Maranda is currently completely oblivious to the events that are occuring at Red Mountian...

Th Puzzle Canal. third floor

So... everything is in place... she thought... the charms were ready, so was her temperary base in the Puzzle Canal... a line of potions and summon scrolls lined the wall, as Shardie slept lazily away... Maranda, wondering what had become of her other servents... and what was happening at Ghostgate...

Somewhere in Skyrim
'Is he ok?'
'I think so... but we don't get many Dark Elves around these parts...'
You found him in the snow, you say?'
'Yes... it looked like some bandits attacked him...'
'well, he is safe now...'

Mornhold...
'He-who-hunts-elves' entered the Courtyard of the Palace... looking at the documents that Maranda had given her... his Alias was 'Asum' a undignified name at that... on an errand for his mistress, Lady Maranda Bienne of Narsis... well, at least that was a half truth... any half witted check would discover this documentation was false... he just hoped it would be enough to plead Maranda's case to the King...

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 11:47 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:29 AM)

Loranna's staff was banded with silver; it could hurt these Dremora, assuming she could hit them with the silver-covered parts. However, she wasn't really a fighter and even with her telekenesis, she could only do so much ...

Dagoth, the children ... sap their magicka, she says, grimacing. We can't let them keep summoning.

That left the Dremora themselves; Loranna considers for a second, then gets a grim expression as she speaks to their minds ...

Servants of Dagon, return home now; I have no quarrel with you, she says, letting just a touch of Azura's power show. Stay, and you shall know first hand what it feels like to be bound to Nirn yourselves - I assure you, you do not wish to know that feeling ...

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 11:48 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:29 AM)

(THE VOID:)
"Now, Little One, we help."

(VVARDENFEL:)
There was a crack like thunder, and a gigantic black form appeared in the midst of the three children. Despite its size, the creature moved with balletic grace and inhuman speed. From within its swirling black cloak, an armored hand, then a heavy foot, and another bear-like hand emerged, impacting each child in turn. There was a sound like someone beating a drum three times, and the children were gone. Another thunder-crack, and the black form was gone as well. All in the space of a heartbeat.

Inside the Void, Bosriel had three new playmates...

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 11:50 AM

The Void

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 05:27 AM)

"I don't believe that a dremora would taste very good, though," Leseth added with a black smile.

Bosriel giggled and shook her head.

She floated around and below the crowds, to look into the faces and forms of those assembled. They were warriors all, many encased in armor, but still there was exposed flesh, fair and dark, young and old, male and female, man and mer. Most were well-muscled, and the blood pumped strongly through the veins as they fought or prepared to fight.

The little girl, the Void Vampire, was sated, but she was floating in a sea of the senses, and it was all she could do to watch, and be good.

When the children appeared, she tore them to pieces.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 11:52 AM

Dur’el stares across the fire at the elderly Redguard.

“Alright, someone tell me what’s going on, and why this geezer is mocking me?” Dur’el says to no one in particular.

“It’s like I told, Kasha, I’m you.” The elder says looking Dur’el dead in his eyes.

Dur’el looks at the man, like he just took off his robe and had women’s undergarments on.

“Prove it.” Dur’el states boldly.

The old Redguard begins to open his robe, and Dur’el begins to fear the worst, he just might have women’s undergarments on, Dur’el thinks. Dur’el banishes that thought as the Redguard fully opens his robe, to show his bare chest, where a faded, scar slashes diagonally down to the left, just like the scar Dur’el has on his chest now.

Dur’el leans in close to examine the scar for a second, and then lifts his nose in the sky. “Big deal anyone can have a scar like mine. It proves nothing.” Dur’el says folding his arms, subliminally covering his chest.

“Fine, that didn’t work the last time it was, tried either. How about I skip the other scar on your arm, your mother’s maiden name, how long a certain extremity is on your body, and get to the last fact I was shown that made me believe…” The Redguard says.

“What are you tal…” Dur’el starts.

“How about I tell Kasha how old you really are?” The Redguard says smiling, as Dur’el looks at him like he finally speaks the truth.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:53 AM

With the children dead, the Dremora wavered and vanished back to the void.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 11:53 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 04:38 AM)

Doll gasped. She had seen the huge flash; she could feel something near her, something that made her flesh crawl.

The Dremora she was fighting vanished.

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 11:58 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 07:39 PM)

The look on the Captain's face was priceless and he looked at the assembled Ashlanders. "Err, well, they don't pay me enough for this." he grumbled.

"If you want to go through, I won't stop you. I'm sure the King will have something to say about this. Atleast I'll live a few days longer."

The solders put their weapons away and cleared a path for the procession to get through.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 12:03 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 05:43 AM)

Doll gasped. She had seen the huge flash; she could feel something near her, something that made her flesh crawl.

The Dremora she was fighting vanished.

Loranna blinks, as Dagoth looks at her questioningly; she can already hear his thoughts wondering, asking much the same questions on her mind.

What was the point of this whole encounter? What were the chances of a bunch of Dremora-summoning kids being out here in the middle of the wastes and being attacked by Ordinators, while the Incarnate of Azura was wandering by?

What meant the sudden flash of blackness that sent the kids into nothingness? ... Was it the same one who had threatened Liris, and was he here on his own in that case or for Wayrest still?

... Just why couldn't those guards have said "These kids summon demons!" before Loranna and Doll started fighting ...

" ... I think it's time we all started back on our way ..." Loranna says, her eyes finally noticing the exsanguinated guard and gulping. " ... We'll take stock of ourselves as we walk ..."

She looks up to Doll with a worried expression ...

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 12:06 PM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Dec 28 2004, 05:48 AM)

Those that looked could tell, even through the veil, that the Incarnate was opening her mouth to speak loudly, but Aricyn spun and gave her a look that would freeze a wolf in its tracks.

He then said in his thundrous voice, "All praise the judgement of Azura! Go, Captain, and tell your king that the land belongs to the children of the land, not to Imperial puppets!"

He looked at the captain and motioned with his head, making sure that it was understood that to stay here at the moment, with the crowd in this state, was to die.

"Yes," said the incarnate, "you may go..." She might have sounded just a little disappointed, but she hid it well.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 12:09 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 04:53 AM)

Doll descended. She bent down and studied the bodies of the dead Ordinators.

"Something was fighting with us," she said. "But I don't think it's our friend. I must tell my mistress about this."

She cleared her throat and spat on the fallen Ordinators.

"In your next life, when a woman asks you a question, answer politely!" she said.

Then she trotted to catch up to Loranna and Dagoth Lich.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 12:13 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 05:59 AM)

Loranna reaches out to give Doll a quick, one-armed hug.

" ... Dear, you nearly gave me a heart attack," she says, smiling, " ... but you were a sight to see. ... Of course, Allie will still chew us both out for this, I'm sure; I'd say something about taking risks but then you could just hold up a mirror to me while I did that, so instead - nicely done."

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 28 2004, 12:14 PM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Dec 28 2004, 08:03 PM)

Mornhold...
'He-who-hunts-elves' entered the Courtyard of the Palace... looking at the documents that Maranda had given her... his Alias was 'Asum' a undignified name at that... on an errand for his mistress, Lady Maranda Bienne of Narsis... well, at least that was a half truth... any half witted check would discover this documentation was false... he just hoped it would be enough to plead Maranda's case to the King...

"The King is currently occupied, and will see you tomorrow." said the King's aide to Asum.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 12:16 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 28 2004, 05:03 AM)

"I don't think we took any unnecessary risks," Doll said. "And I'm sorry we couldn't save the children. Adults are always making that mistake about children, thinking they are sweet little creatures. It's kept me out of jail more than once, when the house was raided. I'm just surprised the children weren't smarter; if they had helped us, they could have escaped in town. Oh well, fools will die no matter how hard you try to save them."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 28 2004, 12:22 PM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 06:06 AM)

Loranna stops and looks down at Doll curiously, her ever-shifting eyes hard to read ...

For a long moment, she looks like she wants to say something - but the words don't come. Azura already got angry at her showing humility openly to Vivec; to let Doll realize just how she felt right now would be ...

" ... Perhaps you are right," Loranna sighs, turning away and closing her eyes. " ... Come; let's go meet up with the others ..."

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 12:23 PM

The Void

The little Void Vampire floated in darkness, her dress dripping with the blood of the children. Her face was red as well for she had feasted with passion.

With a thought, she sent the blood flying off into the Void in millions of particles, so she looked like a red sun bursting. Her simple white dress and her face were clean again.

‘When the King hears about this, won’t he be mad?’ she asked Leseth.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 28 2004, 12:27 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Dec 28 2004, 06:13 AM)

(THE VOID:)

"The king is already mad, Little One," replied Leseth. "There was more to this than met the eye, I believe."

"Come, let us see what he says to the dark when he thinks he is alone."

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Dec 28 2004, 12:28 PM

The storm outside beats down on the cave, as Dur’el, Kasha, the old Redguard, and the sleeping Allimar, sit around the fire, listening to the startling revelation the old Redguard was about to say.

“I know your past Dur’el because I have lived it, myself. I know the one secret you haven’t told anyone, not even Kasha.” Upon hearing this, Kasha raises her head, from her fight with her headache and burns a hole in Dur’el with her eyes.

“You’re much older then you tell everyone, in fact your older then a lot of Altmer in Tamriel, but you look no older then twenty-three. Care for me to divulge, why, or do you believe now?”

After a long silence Dur’el speaks. “That’s enough, you proved your point.” Dur’el murmurs with a grave expression on his face.

No one knew his secret; he had kept it inside for years, decades, and centuries even. No one could know but him. If he’s me… is that what I’m going to look like? Why am I here alone? What am I doing here anyway? Many questions ran through Dur’el’s head, as Kasha approached him.

“Dur’el… I… Is what he says true?” Kasha asks confused.

“I will explain all. Now that you believe me, this will be a bit easier.” The Redguard says as if he could read Dur’el’s mind.

The rain contiunes pouring outside, as Dur’el and Kasha listen hard, the Redguard tells them everything.

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 28 2004, 12:33 PM

The Void

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 28 2004, 06:17 AM)

(THE VOID:)
"Come, let us see what he says to the dark when he thinks he is alone."

Bosriel nodded. She was looking into the face of Liris.

‘We can wait ‘til this one's alone too,’ she said, and then followed Leseth through the Void towards Helseth’s palace in Mournhold.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 28 2004, 01:11 PM

Tris and Ciel: Hammerfell, Elinhir

Here in Elinhir they might as well have been in Colovia, except for the darker skin of the inhabitants. No one paid attention to two Breton strangers.

"I want to stop at a bank before we leave Hammerfell," Tris said. "It will probably take a while; go ahead and do the shopping."

He had argued with himself all day about what he was now going to do. It was a point of pride with him that he never touched his family's money. And besides, his father probably thought he was dead. Why disillusion him? Tris had a perfectly good older sister who would be more than happy to become a shipping magnate, if father couldn't force his son to do it.

It was time to stop being proud.

The bank wasn't pleased. The interest on his trust fund represented a lot of money, which they were happy to keep and use in his absence. An elderly Redguard was called from the Mages' Guild to confirm that he was who he said he was. It did take some time.

He trusted the bank's confidentiality. Uriel Septim VII himself couldn't get information out of these banks. Queen Elysana certainly wasn't going to. Besides, she knew only his last name. And there were a lot of Gaeringtons in the Iliac Bay area.

It occured to him that he should have asked Ciel to go shopping AFTER he had gotten his money. But still. It was good to be frugal.

With that in mind, he bought himself a new shirt. Certainly it was a little extravagant. But it was such a nice shade of blue, and the trim brought out the gold flecks in his green eyes. He joked with the tailor about buying only half a pair of shoes, without flinching even once. He tested the shirt to be sure it looked good even when bunched up under his arms by the crutches.

The next stop was a weapons shop. The smith looked at him sideways when he asked about throwing weapons. Yes, very well, he was a rogue and a thief, no doubt, who else would use thrown weapons? All during their trip, as he rode along, he had been practicing flicking flat stones at the tops of withered, frozen flowers. His aim was getting better. It was time for the real thing. He bought dozens of the cheap variety, for practice, and a set of nice ones, for killing people with.

He and Ciel had agreed to meet at the Mages' Guild. He spent more money there, on spells and parchment and ingredients for alchemy. If he was going to be a cripple, he intended to be the toughest, strongest cripple ever seen. He paid to have a heavy silver ring enchanted with permanent levitation.

Next stop, the Imperial City.

"I have money now," Tris said, smiling. "Let's go eat at an expensive restaurant and get really drunk on the best wine the house offers. I'm paying."

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 28 2004, 05:04 PM

Azrael had continued to sit in the small tavern, letting the vapors in the air condense on his forehead, staring ever into his mug, thinking, just. . .thinking. His brain was ready to give up, and he thought he just might cry, for all that he missed, the terrible feelings of nostalgia, wanting for an old life back, away from any of the responsibilities of this quest he had been forced into now. But then, he wished, even more, to find his parents, or at very least some account of their lives here on Vvardenfell, so that he might know what he had missed, while training with his captors.

He had been trained as an assassin, made to forgo silly 'emotions', knowing that in the end it may very well be his downfall, in the profession he had been taken for, also forced into. He wondered now if his life was really his, and not the rest of Nirn's. He commanded such a feeble power over the actions he had taken; even when he was on his own, journeying back to this place he found himself in now, this Island, he had wondered to himself why he wished to find out about these parents.

"It was over, it was dead. I might have chosen to stay, to train for the rest of my days, put myself to some use in another way. But I chose to drag myself here, and for what, so that I might be pushed into yet another epic lie?", he thought, cursing under his breath, and finishing off his brandy. The Dunmer stood up, mug in hand, and marched his way over to the bar, sitting in an uncomfortable wooden stool for a moment, digging for, and then dropping aimlessly, a handful of coins on the counter, to pay for the mug which he had not slammed down next to himself. Proceeding to turn around, he had a flash of someone, someone watching him; and now, he knew he was not alone, and it enraged him so.

Suddenly, unable to control his actions, he yelled out, louder than any Dunmer might have found himself able to, "WHO IS WATCHING ME?! WHY DO YOU NOT SHOW YOURSELF?! I'LL GUT YOU NOW, AND I CAN GET ON WITH MY DAY! COME ON, WHERE ARE YOU?!" his vision had clouded up, as he lost control, and he stumbled to the middle of the room. He opened his eyes once more to the room full of drunkards, and a shocked bartender. A burly Orc from a dark corner walked up to him, muttering under his breath, "Dunmer I think you need to leave. Go on, get out".

Azrael had only just now realized what he had done, and turned to leave, swiftly, nearly flying out of the door to the tavern. Behind him, he could still feel a pair of piercing eyes. . .

Ang

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 28 2004, 05:04 PM

Edit: *delete*, whoops :|

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 28 2004, 05:32 PM

"Least there is one place left to buy supplies," Erenius mumbles, almost enjoying the prospect as he wakes and packs his belongings, placing them on the cart.

*With that, Ereniuse walks to the gates of Suran, his guar and cart in tow*

*Erenius leaves his guar and cart at the westen gate as he enters the town from beneat the strider port, making his way to the House of Earthly Delights*

"And of all the places," Erenius muses. "This place is the one best suited for buying what is needed for the group."

*He enters the building and places his order, 2500 orders of dried fruits as well as 3500 kwama eggs, 40 crates of Scuttle and Kwama Cuttle, amongst other things, including 250 rodents for slaughter later on as food*

*As he waited for his order to be placed and brought to his cart, Erenius did the only thing he could...he watched the entertainment for a while*

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Dec 28 2004, 06:32 PM

"Ponderance brings to mind that which is both true and untrue. Here we sit upon the battlegrounds of old, and the commencement grounds of today. Yet our work is never complete."

Over the night a company of Buoyant Armigers had slipped from the North and the West, onto Red Mountain. They carried with them an Official Edict that would forever change the nature of the Tribunal Temple. Bowmen and skirmishers they were, and they were lead by Latius Maltne, a cyrodiiic warrior. With the wind had come the Archcanon, who now sat in council with Maltne, looking over the Foyada moving up the mountain.

"I do not know what has ocurred here, but the corpses of our kinsmen are laid near the ghostgate," Maltne stated.

"It is due to the treachery of our King. But come! The dead there are but a few, and we have to plan our next moves,"

"Yes, scouts report a platoon of Imperial Soldiers are near the Ghostgate. They have been harassing a small number, your Loranna among them. So to, they have summoned a few Daedra. In the hills a large force of Ashlanders are waiting, lying in wait for an ambush, no doubt. I have fought them before, don't worry, we will defeat them,"

"No, our enemies are not the same in this era, the world is changing. I do not think that all the secrets of this moment have been revealed. We shall wait, but we will not leave Loranna to the singular torments of the Netchimen's Wife."

Posted by: Marquis Dec 28 2004, 06:52 PM

Phyrdalion walked through Ebonheart, taking inventory of the changes that had taken place since last he left. It seemed there were too few troops for the Imperial seat. None the less, he walked up the stairs and across the bridge. Jonus Maximus caught him before he could cross the whole way over.

"Phyrdalion? Is that really you?" Jonus looked at Phyrdalion's face hard. "It is you! What are you doing here in Ebonheart? I thought you swore off the Legion."

"It has been a while Jonus. I'm here to discuss some issues with the knights and the priests. I would assume that you have heard of the incarnation of Azura?" Phyrdalion looked at the stout imperial.

"Who hasn't my friend?" Jonus' face hardened "Everybody's in a panic, worried she might try and attack our posts here in Vvardenfell. They sent out almost all the troops from Ebonheart and Fort Moonmoth to intercept her at the Ghostgate. From what I've heard of her and her party, it's going to be one hell of an encounter."

"Well, that is why I am here. I have come to find out just what the Empire is going to do about this. I believe that her mission will be of greatest help to our cause here in Vvardenfell. But now, I must speak with the Knight of the Imperial Dragon. Good day Jonus."

"Good luck. You may very well need it." Jonus turned away and walked back to his post, looking like a golden statue.

Phyrdalion entered the castle, feeling a bit nervous from all the stares he recieved upon entrance. It had been well over two years sicne last he stepped foot into Ebonheart, and longer still since he had visited the castle. He walked up the many flights of stairs, recieveing salutes from two of the guards on his way up. Even though he had composed himself, no amount of stature and grace could make them forget him. When he reached the top, he was face to face with Varus Vatinius. Phyrdalion kneeled on one knee, offering respect in the fashion typical to Imerial meetings. "My lord Varus, would you have a moment?" said Phyrdalion, standing slowly, not lifting his head until fully erect.

"Well yes, of course, Phyrdalion. What brings you back to Ebonheart?" Varus looked at Phyrdalion with curiosity, though trying to keep an additude of superiority. He was after all, the Knight of the Imperial Dragon, and it was important that it be known.

"Well, if I may my lordship, may I discuss with you in private?" Phyrdalion nodded his head to the far side of the room.

"Yes, certainly. What is it you have on your mind?" said the knight, walking with Phyrdalion into the farside, motioning the guards to stay put. "I am sure it is important."

"Very much so my lord." Phyrdalion turned to face Varus "It is regarding the Empire's position regarding the Incarnate of Azura. I need to know just where you stand."

Varus almost grimaced. "I have no position, as it is none of my business. If however, you wish for the Empire's position about the matter, we are obligated by the armistice treaty to put down what has been deemed as a rebellion. I have sent over one-hundred troops to the Ghostgate. The incarnate and her following will either disband, or die." Varus had regained his posture "Why is it of any import to you?"

"I... have done something... rash." said Phyrdalion, looking at the ground "I met this incarnate. I have felt her power. I believe she is really Azura as she claims." Phyrdalion looked back up at Varus, a fire in his eyes "And I believe she can help us. All of us."

"Do you even know what you are saying Phyrdalion? You will be branded a heretic. Nothing good can come of this, nothing."

"But Varus, two of the Tribunal are dead, and Vivec never even shows his face to the people. Varus, help me. you have the power and the influence to call off the troops, and to help us garner support for Azura. Imagine, all of Tamriel under one mighty Empire, all of Tamriel free."

"Phyrdalion, you may be right, but it is not my place to directly disobey the Emperor's decree. I hate the temple as much as any other loyal citizen, but I cannot overtly disobey mandate."

"But you must see the folly in such an old decree. It was made long ago when Morrowind was a land of savages. It was the last saving action we could take to take the province."

"I do see, Phyrdalion, but it is not my place to decide what the Empire is to do."

"If you see, then help me. Call off the troops, and help me to fight off my new enemies. They are powerful indeed, and if I am to fight them, I will need the strength of the Paladin." Phyrdalion hoped that Varus would get his meaning, and be willing to help him.

"I cannot withdraw the troops Phyrdalion, only have them blunt their weapons. I can help you to fight, however. I will let you borrow two of the artifacts most precious to the legion, in turn, you must make certain your companions do not kill any of my men. Azura is the lady of mercy, make certai nshe remembers that." Varus truned to go down the steps "Now come with me."

Phyrdalion followed, down into the chamber where the Lord's Mail and the Chrysamere were kept. Varus took a key, and opened the shrine door. "You may use these, they will give you an edge in battle. They will not break, so I want them back when this is over. I wish I could accompany you Phyrdalion, but my place is with the Legion." Varus handed the Lord's mail and the Chrysamere blade to Phyrdalion. "They are well known to the legion, you will need to hide them."

"Of course, I know the rites. I will blend them into my arsenal. Thank you, lord Varus, I will not forget this, and your men shall not be harmed." Phyrdalion closed his eyes, and opened a portal in the ground, going back to his room. He dropped the artifacts in it. "There. Again, I thank you, and I must be going. I have much to do, and many, many places to go."

Posted by: Meridia Dec 28 2004, 11:36 PM

'Why are you helping us?' Shardie asked as she regained the sword that was taken from Maranda earlier...
'I can not support the current temple's policy... I just can not bring my self to worship... it' the Priest replied
'I thank you... but the Temple's betrayal of our cause is a worrying sign... To capture her now without violence is almost an impossibility... My plans must be modified...' Maranda said
'Oh, and another thing, Hesleth's troops were defeated near Ghostgate... as were a horde of Dremora...'
'Indeed... that is a worry... I think there is only one option now... Thank you, you may go...'
The priest left, leaving Shardie and Maranda to mull things over...
'What is the one option left?'
'To pray to the gods... for a miracle... no, a catastrophie...'

Posted by: Aki Dec 28 2004, 11:56 PM

Reichi had watched silently as the procession of Loranna and the Legion had agrued. As the ashlanders apeared and the Imperial had stood aside. Reichi then joined back up with the procession. But he noticed something odd about this 'Loranna'. She didn't smell like a nord at all. Instead, she smelled like a Dunmer...

Dar'Var having nothing better to do, hopped in on of the supply carts of ther procession and hitched a ride.

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 12:08 AM

Mharakin ordered his sixteenth bottle of sujamma when Phyrdalion walked in. "'ell 'ello dare!" Mharakin swiveled in his seat, almost falling off "Come ta tashte shah shweet drinksh?" Mharakin took a big swig of the sujamma, leanded over too far, and fell right onto the ground. It was an awkward thing, because he was so well trained that he did a flip as he fell in an attampt to right himself. However, he was so drunk, he flipped too far and slammed his face squarely into the ground, rending him unconscious.

Phyrdalion looked down at his friend, shook his head, and picked up the foul little mer. "You're going to regret that when you wake up." Phyrdalion whispered, laying him on the bed. Phyrdalion looked into the corner of his room, and saw the two artifacts, wrapped in cloth. laying in a corner of the room. He picked up the Chrysamere, and unwrapped it. The blade shown brillianty in the candle light. He placed the long sword in the corner of the room. He picked up the Lord's Mail, and looked over its superior design. Small chains linked in and out, metal plates perfectly formed. It did, however, look very imperial. "This won't do. They will have to be cloaked. Phyrdalion wrapped them again. He began writing a note

Mharakin,
You have a nasty bump on your head. There are three healing potions next to the bed. I am going to Vivec to get some enchantments done, I have an old Telvanni friend who will give me what I need. Then I will be heading for the Ghostgate to try and see if I can prevent any harm from being done up there. If you feel like coming with me, you may find me at fort Moonmoth. I hope I can enjoy your company. Your skills and good cheer would be much appreciated.

Phyrdalion stuck the note into the door with one of Mharakin's daggers. He set out, wearing the Lord's Mail with all his other armor under a robe, He left his old cuirass hidden in a secret passage of the fort. With Chrysamere still cloth covered, he got on the boat, and sailed for Vivec. Upon reaching the city, Phyrdalion went straight to the Telvanni canton. He walked into the enchanter's shop.

The enchanter was leaning back in his chair, reading a book. He looked up from a book he had been reading, and fell right over in his chair. When he stood, he brushed himself off and looked at Phyrdalion "What in the name of Nirn are you doing here?"

Phyrdalion looked at the enchanter, and handed him the Chrysamere. "You owe me a favor, remember?" said Phyrdalion, unstrapping the Lord's Mail.

"Oh my, I had hoped you would forget." the enchanter unwrapped Chrysamere and looked it over. "What do you need? Phyrdalion, blood seeker." a light came to the enchater's eyes as he saw the Lord's Mail "I know what these are! They're the Paladin's armor. Armor of the dragon. How did you get them?"

"None of your business. They need an enchantment. A simple one, but one which I cannot perform." said Phyrdalion, handing the Lord's Mail to the enchanter "I need them to match the rest of my armor."

"That's it? Well, I can do that!" the enchanter said, much relieved "It will take but a moment, come to the laboratory." the enchanter walked back, his robes flowing as he walked rapidly.

Phyrdalion followed "Be certain that the enchantment will not wear off." Phyrdalion sat on a stool, feeling strange with all his armor and no cuirass.

"Don't worry about that. An adventurer "donated" some of his most valuable soul gems recently, they will look nice." the enchanter began fixing a grand soul gem to each artifact, using his magick to cause the metals to absord the gems.

"And you are still not sure why you had a bounty on you for necromancy? You kill your patrons!" Phyrdalion scowled at the dunmer.

"Oh, he's not dead friend, he's not fully alive either, but, these things happen." the enchanter said as he began to channel his Magick into the gems. The armor glowed for a bit, then it morphed and changed, resmbling Phyrdalion's old cuirass. Chrysamere glowed for a bit too, but was transformed into a long, single-edged sword, somewhat like a scimitar. The blade seemed to be made out of some sort of white stone, with a golden cutting edge. It was brilliantly engraved, and the stone had a shine and reflection like metal.

Before the transformation was complete, Phyrdalion ordered one more thing "Before you finish, make them lighter, half their weight."

The glow by the enchanter's hands changed from green to purple "Do you know how much this would cost anyone else? This isn't as easy as it looks."

"Do you know how much you're head is worth on a pike? Just finish it, I have things I need to do."

The enchanter finished, handing the pieces back to Phyrdalion. "There, you now own the two of the most powerful artifacts in Tamriel, and nobody knows. Now leave, I need to rest."

Phyrdalion bowed, and replaced the cuirass. He strapped Chrysamere to his back, and walked out. He went to the silt strider, handed the caravanner his due, and set his pack on the floor "Balmora, and hurry."

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 29 2004, 12:19 AM

*Erenius was sitting there still in the House of Earthly Delights when one of the several who "volunteered" to put the supplies on his cart came to him, reporting they were finished*

"Very well," Erenius says as he stands up, almost reluctant to leave. Erenius pays for his stay, which included drinks, food, and a modest tip.

*Outside, he prepared his cart and went forth along the roads towards Ghostgate, deciding it would be better to go there directly than wait in Vivec. His other business could wait for later.*

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 01:26 AM

Mharakin woke, and soon felt the rewards of his drunkeness. "Ouch... I hardly remember what happened." He suddenly felt sick in his stomach, and ran to the latrine, grabbing Phyrdalion's note as he ran. When he had finished vomitting, he read the note. "Moonmoth... Ghostgate, this should be interesting." Mharakin returned to the room, and began to pack up his items. He would reach Moonmoth in about five hours.
___

Phyrdalion was sleeping when he felt a light tap in his side. "What the?" Phyrdalion reached out to grab whomever was poking him, but grasped only air.

"Shut up you lout. You'll wake the entire fort." Mharakin was sitting atop Phyrdalion's table, looking down at the nord through a night eye spell. "I came, and it is almost dawn. We should leave soon."

Phyrdalion grabbed his candle and lit it with a small fire spell. "Alright, let me get my things together. We should reach Ghostgate by midday." Phyrdalion changed into his clothing and armor, and hoisted his pack onto his back. Let's go, the sooner we get there the better. I'm hoping we can prevent any casualties.

The two traveled up the foyada, killing countless cliffracers and one dremora as they went. Mharakin slipped the Dremora's dagger into his belt, and they kept walking. After about four hours of travel, they had reached the Ghostgate. The Imperial troops were leaving, and Phyrdalion flagged one down.

"What happened here? Why do you leave?" said Phyrdalion, looking hard into the imperial's eyes.

"The emporer can fight his own wars, we're not here to get slaughtered." said the imperial, pointing up at the mountain side, dotted with Ashlanders. "We can fight a few worshippers. But not an entire army of those heathens. They'll wear our skins for belts."

Phyrdalion looked to the hill, and back at the trooper "Tell me, which post are you from?" Phyrdalion reached into his sack for a quill and paper.

"Ebonheart, why do you ask?"

"One moment." Phyrdalion wrote a quick note on the paper to Varus

Varus,
I reached Ghostgate, your troops are returning unharmed. I am with the group and will guarantee the Legion's safety from here on.

"Here, give this to Varus, it is of the utmost importance. Make certain he gets it." Phyrdalion handed the note to the trooper.

"Yes sir, he will receive it as soon as possible." The trooper turned and jogged up to his group.

Phyrdalion caught up to the group of worshippers, and looked for Aricyn.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 01:48 AM

Approaching Ghostgate

As Loranna, Doll, and Dagoth make their way toward their destination, Loranna reaches out to talk to her lich friend mentally.

... Well, that was ... interesting ... she says, her tone implying a frown.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 01:52 AM

'I'll say, cliffracers, children that summon Dremora. Not what I would call a good day huh?'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 01:56 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 07:42 PM)

'I'll say, cliffracers, children that summon Dremora. Not what I would call a good day huh?'

At this point, Loranna says, Cliff Racers aren't a worry anymore, they're just like sharp stones on the road - you walk around them or kick them when they get in the way. It's the children and the Ordinators I'm worried about; it just seems ... hard to believe that they were there by sheer coincidence ...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 01:58 AM

'I am more worried about how children could summon daedra with that much skill..... it doesn't make any sense. Course, not much does in this world......'

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 29 2004, 02:01 AM

*Erenius had set out from Suran a while ago and decided that it would be better to go to Ghostgate and follow the party instead of waiting for them in Vivec or another waystation along the route*

"Least I'm pretty sure I'm on the right track," Erenius says as he notices both skeleton and humanoid foot-prints side-by-side along a path. "I only assume this was the path Loranna took, Dagoth obviously by her side..."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 02:01 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 07:48 PM)

'I am more worried about how children could summon daedra with that much skill..... it doesn't make any sense. Course, not much does in this world......'

Loranna glances thoughtfully at Doll for a second.

... It's possible for children to be surprisingly adept at magic, she says, but ... for seven such skilled children, in Vvardenfell, is a bit too much to ask. Plus, again - why of all the places to take such children out to be killed, why along the path from Kummu to Ghostgate?

... No; it's just a question of who sent them and why, though as for why, I have my suspicions. Probably to feel my abilities out, maybe to see how I'd react to this situation ... maybe to try ang get me killed, though as an actual ambush it was kind of stupidly set up ...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 02:04 AM

Just the thought of someone trying to kill Loranna starts to make Dagoth's magic get chaotic with anger and worry. 'If it was to kill you, it was a pathetic attempt. Very pathetic. And not the wisest of things to try considering how powerful we are.....'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 02:10 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 07:54 PM)

I've made equally powerful enemies, Loranna reminds Dagoth, her eyes flashing with dismay at his anger. And against some foes, I'm as helpless as a babe - there's next to nothing I could have done against the warrior in black, had he chosen to strike at us instead of the children.

She sighs, audibly. ... It's not worth worrying who's stronger and who's weaker; paranoids do that, constantly trying to ensure no one can overcome their strength and preperations. For us mortals, there's always going to be something or someone tougher than us, so why worry about it? ... I'm just curious who sent them; I'm rather leaning toward Helseth right now given their claims of King's orders, though it's not inconceivable that Elysana sent them, either. Or perhaps they were with the Temple ...

Loranna sighs. ... Now I'm getting paranoid, she chides herself.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 02:13 AM

After seeing the expression Loranna was giving him, Dagoth calmed down a bit.

'Maybe you are right, maybe I am just being paranoid. Or maybe I am just overprotective..... or both. Ya never can be too sure about these things.'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 02:16 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 08:03 PM)

Loranna looks over her shoulder briefly, catching a hint of someone following ...

... Given the way I'm elected to handle things, you have an excellent point, love, she says, her thoughts wrapping around his for a quick, playful squeeze. Sigh; there's little we can do right this moment to quell the anger of a royal, whichever one we've upset. We'll just have to worry about it once we finish at Ghostgate.

Loranna relaxes as she notes the presence starting to follow them is a familiar one. She decides to let Erenius be for now, wanting a few more moments 'alone' with Dagoth.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 02:22 AM

Despite the quickness of the mental embrace, Dagoth sinks right into it. 'If it is a royal we angered, than we might be in for an even rougher ride. But if everything works out in the end, than the ride is worth it. Just so long as we don't lose that which we care about most in the process.'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 02:26 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 08:12 PM)

Loranna suddenly becomes quiet, thinking of the first of the three prophecies - the one foretelling her killing that which she loved most ... and about what she herself cared about most right this moment.

... Yeah ... she says, her tone lacking energy.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 29 2004, 02:27 AM

*Erenius continued along his path, seeing the occasional cliff racer's remains on the side of the dirt-path*

"Least I'm getting closer..." Erenius mumbles, following the trail, noting the stench of death grow stronger for a moment then begin to freshen, denoting fresher cliff-racer corpses ahead.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 02:30 AM

'You seem..... worried. What's wrong? If I may request, can you tell me what is troubling you?'

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 02:32 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Dec 28 2004, 08:20 PM)

'You seem..... worried. What's wrong? If I may request, can you tell me what is troubling you?'

Loranna frowns.

... This time dear, she says with some reluctance, I think it better for me to keep my thoughts to myself. Some things I need to sort out on my own ...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Dec 29 2004, 02:34 AM

'If you say so my love. Just remember, I'll always be hear to listen to you, if you need me to.'

As Dagoth says this, he begins to slowly wrap his mind around Loranna's, in an attempt to comfort her.

Posted by: Dumbkid Dec 29 2004, 02:50 AM

A a strange, aquatic creature rose out of the depths of Lake Nabia, water dripping from it's body and limbs.

The Dreugh shook his head, and began flying north, singing:

Samuel is a Dreugh
And a flying Dreugh he is
Samuel is a Dreugh
And he can talk too
Samuel is a Dreugh
And a flying Dreugh he is
Oh is there anything that
Samuel cannot do

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 29 2004, 03:04 AM

The King's aide finds Asum and says simply:

"The King will see you now."

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 03:06 AM

Tirdas, 28th of Evening Star

I am unsure.

Many things have happened, so many threads interwined. Reality is woven like a cloak, so many paths, so many roads.

I find myself at the Void Ranger guildhouse in Daggerfall, awaiting the moment which I shall return to the others. I am unsure though, where the path will lead me. I realize, of course, that I have never known this, I walk as my feet doth lead, and where the path goes, so that way I go.

I realize I am very well traveled; I have seen the isle of the Psijic's, I have tasted it's air, and smelt it's flowers; I have been to the depths of Oblivion, my eyes have seen the land of demons, and I yet I live.

And I ponder also, the thread. I have pulled twice now the same string from Aetherius, but what of it? Is there meaning to this? I cannot say. Perhaps it is nothing, perhaps it is the world unraveling, I do not know.

Posted by: Dumbkid Dec 29 2004, 03:13 AM

Samuel continues flying north, and west, singing as he goes:

Dreugh Dreugh Samuel is a Dreugh
Samuel is a Dreugh and he can fly too
Dreugh Dreugh Samuel is a Dreugh
Samuel is a Dreugh oh he can fly too...

Ghostgate appeared before him, and he grew steadily closer to it...

Posted by: Meridia Dec 29 2004, 03:14 AM

'He-who-hunts-elves' or Asum, as his Alias said made his way into the throne room... Guards in Red Armour lined the walls, as "Asum" looked around, a feling of insignificance surrounding him... the king stood there an expressionless, as "Asum" tried to remember the memorized script that Maranda gave him... He knelt down, and bowed his head low.
'Oh great king Hesleth, I bring word from my Mistress, Lady Maranda Bienne of Narsis, your loyal and undieing servent, that there are those whom wish to bring harm to you! A heritic nord, claiming to be Azura reborn wants to dethrone you! Of course, being such a great king as yourself, you should already know that. My lady lead a small force to attack the heritic, but it was wiped out... by the fiendish beasts that she commands, [a complete lie, by the way] However, she learnt somthing of great value to you, and wants to trade that infromation for your assistace, your highness, she has discovered a way to capture the Heritic...'
Anum paused, waiting for a reply

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 03:18 AM

QUOTE(Dumbkid @ Dec 28 2004, 09:03 PM)

Reichi watched Samuel approach. Amused at the Dreugh's abillity to follow the group most anywhere.

Dar'Var, upon seeing the dreugh...thought he was insane, drunk, or high. Yet didn't recall drinking or using moonsugar.

"I gotta be insane.." he mumbled.

Posted by: Dumbkid Dec 29 2004, 03:19 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 28 2004, 09:08 PM)

Reichi watched Samuel approach. Amused at the Dreugh's abillity to follow the group most anywhere.

Dar'Var, upon seeing the dreugh...thought he was insane, drug, or high. Yet didn't recall drinking or using moonsugar.

"I gotta be insane.." he mumbled.

Samuel cocked his head at the two before him.

"Heyza, I'm Samuel, the Flying Dreugh." The creature exclaimed. "Do you have any tasties?"

The Dreugh glided closer to the pair.

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 03:21 AM

Dar'var looked quizically at the Dreugh. Reichi grabbed a dried slaughterfish from a food cart and tossed it to Samuel.

Posted by: Dumbkid Dec 29 2004, 03:24 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 28 2004, 09:11 PM)

Dar'var looked quizically at the Dreugh. Reichi grabbed a dried slaughterfish from a food cart and tossed it to Samuel.

A tentacle swung out and wrapped around the dried fish, and then Samuel reached out with his arm and clutched the icthyoid with a claw.

The Dreugh devoured the creature, and turned to fly off, singing:

Dreugh Dreugh Samuel is a Dreugh
Samuel is a Dreugh and he like tasties too...

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 03:28 AM

Mharakin walks around, looking at the crowd, finding potential enemies, finding allies, always looking for things amiss. He looked up the hill, and saw the countless Ashlanders camped on its ridges. He went to find Phyrdalion. "I am going to talk to the Ashlanders. I will find you later." Mharakin walked off and jumped up a hill and around the Ghostgate. There were far too many people crowding the gate itself to pass through. He came up onto a hill where a large clan of Ashlanders were seated. "Blessings of Azura friend!" he said to one of the Ashlanders, sitting down next to him "A joyous day, when the lady comes back to us."

The Ashlander looked at him curiously, and decided to speak "Yes, good day. False gods will fade. We worship Azura again." the ashlander went back to tending his spear.

Mharakin looked around and felt at home on the side of the mountain with these simple people. He watched as a cliffracer passed by, and he picked up one of the ashlander bows, firing right into the racer's throat, dropping it then and there. He would make a soul guard, perhaps as a gift to the Ashkhan.

The ashlander he had spoken to looked at him with surprise. "You have good arrows. What are you called?" said the ashlander, taking the bow back from Mharakin, looking over it for any damage.

"My name is Mharakin. Who are you?" Mharakin said, turning to the ashlander.

"I am called Zansit Pulinibib. Why are you here?" Zansit said as he began to fletch more arrows.

"I do not know. Perhaps to see the Dusk and the Dawn, perhaps because I have nowhere else to go." Mharakin watched the strange Dreugh as it floated up to Reichi and Dar'Var pointing down at Samuel, he said to Zansit "Never seen that before. I wonder what it is."

"An odd thing. Not supposed to be. An omen from Sheogorath."

"I doubt it, but I'd like to know what it is." Mharakin stood up and hopped down the cliff to his cliffracer, picked it up, and then went over to Reichi. "What was that?"

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 29 2004, 03:34 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Dec 29 2004, 11:34 AM)

"You may rise He-who-hunts-elves." Said Helseth. "Oh, you didn't think I wouldn't find out who really I'm talking to before granting them an audience?" Helseth smiled. It never ceased to amaze him how many people thought they could get away with using an alias to see him. The name of his Mistress was also false, but that was of no consequence.

"Yes, I do know about this Nord barmaid travelling throughout Vvardenfell drumming up support. I will offer my support for this information, however, there is one stipulation. This Loranna must not be killed. I will not make a martyr out of her cause. Perhaps I'll even send her back to High Rock as a present to an old friend."

"Come, tell me this information you have regarding Loranna."

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 03:37 AM

QUOTE(Marquis @ Dec 28 2004, 09:18 PM)

"I doubt it, but I'd like to know what it is." Mharakin stood up and hopped down the cliff to his cliffracer, picked it up, and then went over to Reichi. "What was that?"

"That was Samuel, Hes a flying Dreugh. He also ocaisonally shows up following the party. Looking for 'Tasties' which seem limited to mudcrab meat and slaughterfish." Reichi responded.

Posted by: Meridia Dec 29 2004, 03:43 AM

'He-who-hunts-elves' was quite surprised... but continued none the less
'If you know my true name, then you would also know of whom my master works for... My master, and her master do not like Loranna running around causing chaos... a threat to the world, they belive, and should not be allowed to wander free... She is currently en-route to Ghostgate, as you proberly already know, but my Master plans to ambush her once she arrives in Vivec. It is true the fact that she is the Incarnate of Azura, yes, and because of this, she can not be left to run around Morrowind causing chaos, fermenting rebellion, desicrating the Tribunal... my masters master fears that her very exsistace on Nirn may cause the end of the world as we know it... and that she should be brought to Trial for her crimes... What my master wants is your assistance in capturing the Heritic at Vivec, the most fitting place for it to occur...' finished 'he-who-hunts-elves', still not aware of the Temples betrayal...

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 03:49 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 28 2004, 09:27 PM)

"That was Samuel, Hes a flying Dreugh. He also ocaisonally shows up following the party. Looking for 'Tasties' which seem limited to mudcrab meat and slaughterfish." Reichi responded.

"I see, quite interesting. I'm Mharakin... and you are?"

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 03:51 AM

"Reichi Sari." Reichi said, extending a hand to be shaken. "Nice to meet ya."

Posted by: Attrebus Dec 29 2004, 03:56 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Dec 29 2004, 12:03 PM)

"Yes, Vivec seems like the ideal place to confront this Outlander. I will accompany you myself once I have taken care of a few things here first. Replied Helseth. "You can make your way there now and prepare if you prefer. Some of my Royal guard will accompany you and provide any assistance you may need."

"In the mean time, I have the coming of an old friend to prepare for."

Helseth waved his hand signalling the end of the audience.

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 03:57 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 28 2004, 09:41 PM)

"Reichi Sari." Reichi said, extending a hand to be shaken. "Nice to meet ya."

Mharakin shook Reichi's hand "I would guess you're here for the incarnate. Any idea where she is?"

Posted by: Meridia Dec 29 2004, 03:59 AM

'He-who-hunts-elves' left, feeling quite pleased with himself... and found his escort of royal guards... he decided to head back to Vivec immediatly and inform Maranda of the good news...

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 04:00 AM

Reichi hesistated for a moment. "In the palaquin thingy.." he said, pointing to the false incarnate. He knew she wasn't the real one by scent alone, but he couldn't say that aloud.

Normal Dunmer weren't exactly renowned for having senses of smell that rivalled a wolf's.

Posted by: Sheogorath Dec 29 2004, 04:04 AM

Western Mountains, Morrowind

The small fleet of the Queen of Wayrest, Elysana, slipped through the narrow mountain channels in a slow, careful approach. Though she had been assured by her spymaster that this part of her stepbrother’s kingdom was underpopulated and unguarded, she took the precaution of lowering the standard of the red rose. No reason to announce her presence until she was ready.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 04:32 AM

Tris and Ciel: Imperial City

The streets were crowded with tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of the Emperor at his New Life address. Though New Life wouldn't be celebrated in Cyrodiil for another few days, the inns were all full.

"We can get a room at the house of Dibella," Tris said. "Don't give me that look. I'm an initiate there, almost a priest, they can spot me a room. Besides, I need to discuss my future with them. Can't have a maimed priest of Dibella. Ordinarily they aren't delighted at losing worshippers, but I think given the circumstances, they'll let me buy my way out and make another profession."

"Tris! Tris, is that you? It can't be..."

A young Imperial man ran up beside them, and openly gaped at the sight of Tris's missing leg. Tris recognized one of his old running companions, Nenius Seguri.

"I can't believe it!" Nenius cried. "Oh, what happened? It's a tragedy. So that's where you've been."

"It's part of my secret plan to become divine," Tris said, smiling. "I cut it off to make way for the fire."

Since Nenius had never ventured outside the Imperial province even in his thoughts, and wasn't much of a reader, Tris's witty reference to the writings of Vivec was lost on him. He gave Tris a look as if Tris might be insane, then laughed, too loudly and too shrilly, assuming it was some kind of joke, although he didn't understand it.

Tris laughed too. "This is my friend, Ciel," he said, deliberately withholding Ciel's last name. No need to flaunt the fact that they were both still alive.

"Yes, right, pleased to meet you." Nenius shook Ciel's hand, looking him up and down critically. Apparently Ciel passed his inspection.

"Well..." Nenius said, after a moment's uncomfortable silence. "We're still at the Rat's Satchel, same as always. Bryn tore up his hamstring about a year ago, but he's getting his own back now. You could, you know, come by and... watch us, I guess."

"We're traveling, I don't think I've have time," Tris said, still smiling. "Say hello to everyone for me."

When Nenius was gone, Tris said, still smiling, "I think I need to sit down..."

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 29 2004, 04:47 AM

After a long walk in the nearby hills, foyadas, and along the banks of the Odai river, Azrael concluded that his life was not in such shambles as he has previously thought. He made his decision, and stood firm in the conviction that he had, all his life, not allowed himself to be pushed around, but had simply come upon certain things which could not be altered, and still had complete control over himself, and his near surroundings. Returning to his house, he realized, via the note left by the incarnate a handful of days before, that he was late for the impending arrival at Ghostgate. Sparing no bit of speed, he made a mad dash for the Silt Strider, contracting it's services directly to Ghostgate by the appeal of a handful of coins over the rate charged by the conductor. He soon found himself in the foyada Mamaea, an ashen bunker in the middle of a deserted wasteland, only slightly to the north-west of the Molag Amur region. He could smell the stench of emptiness, feel the grip of a small dust cloud as it wrapped him up entirely. The Dunmer Brushed from his shoulder a small bug, Shalk-like in appearance, but much smaller, and began to tread lightly north, to to the Red Mountain Entrance. . .

Ang

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 04:51 AM

QUOTE(Anghardel67 @ Dec 28 2004, 10:37 PM)

Loranna had accepted Dagoth's comforting thoughts for a while, hoping to escape her own dark ponderings. As she and her companions grew ever closer to Ghostgate, she decides to try checking in with one of the other people she knows was going around doing things, and her thought reach out ...

Azrael? You there? she calls.

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 29 2004, 04:57 AM

As he trudged, slowing a bit to stretch, Azrael felt a thick, yet comfortable, presence in his mind. He realized what was happening now, and allowed for the feeling to consume him. As he relaxed, he heard a voice, resonating in his head.

"Azrael? You there?", it asked, and he knew it was the incarnate.

Smiling to himself, he responded, "Yes, incarnate, I am here. I have done what I can to call to your cause the aid of a few Mages Guild members who choose to not to remain loyal to guilds and their silly politics in this time. I have, on my person, a list you may be interested in, of those willing to stand with you, in whatever way you see fit.".

The Dunmer waited a moment, before adding, inquisitively, "Incarnate. I have not seen any member of your close followers for some days now--not a surprise, as I wandered off alone. But, I am curious, where are you now, in relation to this ghostgate shrine 'stop'?"

Ang

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 05:02 AM

QUOTE(Anghardel67 @ Dec 28 2004, 10:47 PM)

A smile creeps into Loranna's tone as she hears Azrael relate his news, and she stops for a second to notice again how her mental touch affects Azrael, her thoughts wrapping around his ...

... hmm ... er, hehe sorry, she blushes. Thank you for what you have done on my behalf, Azrael; hopefully your allies you have made can help us fulfill our quest and avoid needless ... problems.

As for myself ... I'm a few hours outside of Ghostgate; my own affairs have taken a touch longer than expected. We should be wary though; I've no reason to expect Ghostgate is bereft of people against us.

Posted by: FireMaster Dec 29 2004, 05:10 AM

*Erenius continued following the tracks and carcasses, including signs of some sort of event, but he was unsure what exactly... Regardless of that, Erenius proceeded forth, knowing he was close, but wasnt sure just how much so*

"If they be real close, I figure I could see them from the top of a nearby hill..." Erenius mutters as he makes his way to a hill to try to see if he could catch sight of Loranna or Dagoth.

*After several moments of scanning the area, he sees the two in the middle of a desolate road, devoid of either carcasses or other such in the area*

"Its either them, or some crazy Dunmer necromancer with her summon on a walk," Erenius says, knowing in reality it was Loranna and Dagoth, but still keeping the second thought in his head.

*With that, Erenius continued his advance towards them, quickening his pace a bit*

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 29 2004, 05:11 AM

Attempting to walk while communicating, Azrael realizes he is unable to move himself, and so casually shrugs the edginess he suffers from being flat-footed in a potentially dangerous area off, returning to his dialogue:

"A few hours; I am sure you are aware of my own position, so I won't waste time explaining myself to you. Suffice to say, I will speed up, and plan on arriving in GhostGate shortly. I will find a place near, or in, one of the two towers I have spied on the exterior of the gates, and wait for you there. Before I settle, however, I will scout this area--I am nearly confident that resistance awaits you there. When you arrive, perhaps we shall speak more. For now I must make haste, if I am to scale this place with my eyes adequately before your coming.".

A moment or two passed, and Azrael decided to ask of the incarnate a simple question, but one that had been on his mind for some time: "Incarnate. Excuse me for waiting until this point, but I realized, in the few days that have passed since our last meeting, that I do not know your mortal name."

Ang

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 05:16 AM

Loranna blinks.

... I'm Loranna, she says, a small laugh playing in the back of her tone. I'm sorry dear; I didn't even realize you didn't know ...

Loranna looks behind once more, noting Erenius's closing in on her position. ... Looks like people are gathering toward Ghostgate again, she mutters, as much to Azrael as to anyone else. I'll be in touch; for now though, since you tend to lose control when I wrap my thoughts around yours ... good luck and talk to you agains oon.

Loranna lets the contact fade.

Posted by: Anghardel67 Dec 29 2004, 05:27 AM

Feeling the grip loosen on his mind, Azrael attempted to hug the incarnate with his thoughts for a moment, but realized that he failed miserably, and blushed slightly, wiggling his fingers, trying to break the tense, near-paralyzing effects of this mental communicae he had just shared. He thought to himself, as he shook back his mobility, "Why does this dialogue affect me so? I have seen this incarnate speak in this way, no doubt, to nearly all others in her close-knit group of advocates, and yet, I am the only one who suffers so."

Realizing now that he had regained willful movement, Azrael set off towards the GhostGate, and the towers of Dusk and Dawn. . .

Ang

Posted by: Marquis Dec 29 2004, 05:42 AM

Mharakin walked to Phyrdalion, who was sitting with a few of the followers, drinking some flin he had brought with him for the journey. Phyrdalion waved and stood as Mharakin came nearer. Phyrdalion grabbed his arm and pulled him to the group. "Friends, this is Mharakin. Mharakin, these are Elam, Garas, and Odral. Come, sit, and have a few drinks with us." Phyrdalion patted the mer on the back in a way that only a Nord can.

"Not right now Phyrdalion, I am confused. Didn't you say Loranna was a Nord?" Mharakin shifted his glance to the people sitting "I looked into the veil, the woman behind it was dunmer."

"Your eyes are playing tricks on you friend. She's a Nord alright, and the most beautiful Nord I've ever seen." Phyrdalion picked up a jug of sujamma and thrust it into Mharakin's chest "Have a drink, it calms the nerves."

Mharakin took the jug and uncapped it. He took a swig and put the cork back in "Maybe you're right Phyrdalion, maybe I was just seeing things." but he thought to himself But I never see things.

"Of course I'm right, now sit down and enjoy the show. These fine fellows say she's going to the shrine next." Phyrdalion took another gulp of his flin and sat, propped up against a tree.

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 05:52 AM

Vivec, St. Delyn Plaza

A breton boy watched as the Hunters, lead by Tarenen entered the Abbey.Now, visually, he stood out like a sore thumb. His clothing was in poor condition, and his long brown hair was unkempt. However, the thing that most people notice first was his scars. Particular the five on his face that resembled a claw mark. As if he had angered a Khajiit and got clawed in the face for it.

His name was Tohe, and he was a friend of Reichi's by association. His parents had been friends of Reichi's. Until they died. Killed by the thing that had given him his scars.

He watched the hunters with interest. Reichi had told him of them. He knew that they would be looking for Were-beasts. But in Vivec, he knew that that was highly unlikely. No sane man would think a Were-beast would hide in a highly populated canton.

How would they know? No, unless they got Reichi they couldn't know...and that would require taking him alive, they didn't want him that way. There must be another reason they were here, he thought. ...i gotta find out why...but i can't stay in town much longer.

It was getting dark. The light refracting through the glass windows at the Plaza's roof said that much. Tohe hurried out of Vivec.

Meanwhile, Inside the Abbey, plans were made for the battle. It was decided they would attack at the shrine of daring. For the temple canton would serve as a good open battleground. A good place for Tarenen to use his special Talents.

Reichi and Dar'Var, At Ghostgate, were doing nothing of Note, other than following the Azura Followers.

Posted by: w0nders Dec 29 2004, 06:23 AM

Dante sat at a table alone, eating a breadroll as his brother continued his bitter argument with the bouyent armiger. He let out a heavy sigh I wonder when the other members of the group will arrive. He took another bite from his breadroll when he heard some light scratching at the door of the tower.

"C'mon boy, we've gotta go home, mother is going to be furious...we shouldn't be out here" a small meak voice said, also behind the door. Dante walked over towards the door and thrusted it open, standing there, was a small dunmer girl and a guar, Dante cocked his head and made a face suggesting 'wtf?'.

"Oh, don't mind us sir, My guar here dragged me away from home" Dante leaned closer and asked "What's his name little girl?" The girl looked up at him blankly and blurted out "Salty" Dante cringed at such a terrible name and turned to head back inside.

As he opened the door he heard a familiar voice, one that put a shiver down his spine "Hey boss, I brought you a gift" This voice could only belong to one thing....Corky.

Posted by: niceguy5 Dec 29 2004, 07:06 AM

Dane finally made his way to Ghostgate, after dealing with a battalion of cliffracers. Guess I'm the first one here...huh? whats this, some ale... Dane picked up a shattered bottle of what was left of Ale. The Imperial drank the last drops of the refreshment and flung it away.

"Halt..." An ordinator firmly placed an hand on Dane's chest. The ordinator didn't wore a helm, showing his rough face. He cocked an eyebrow at Dane.

"What are you-"

"Its ok Kelith...he's a friend of mine" An Dunmer in orchish armor said to the ordinator.

Dane smiled "...Jekk, guess you were right" Dane patted off the dust from his shoulders

The ordinator furrowed his eyebrows then walked away.

"About Balmora?"

"...Yeah about what happened in Balmora"

Jekk gestured Dane, inside The Tower of Dusk

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 07:29 AM

Solunastra

Allerleirauh spoke to Solin and Arynel.

"Skein says Loranna will rejoin the main group shortly, in the region of Ghostgate. We can travel directly to Doll, who has been trailing Loranna, and avoid the dangers of passing through the Void. Or we can travel to Ghostgate itself, and check on Aricyn and the others. Skein reports that there was almost a battle there, but at the last moment, peace prevailed."

She smiled. "Not all of my spies must travel the Void to see; and although Skein's information is a little vaguer than that you might see with your eyes, it's broader in scope."

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 07:32 AM

Arynel nodded his head, allowing Allerlierah to finish speaking.

"It matters not to me wherever we go, neither of these paths I can see the end of." The Breton said. "Whichever one you deem the right, that one I will walk."

Posted by: Solin Dec 29 2004, 07:34 AM

Solin fiddled with his pack straps making sure they were secure. His gloved fingers defty tied the stips of hide together keeping the bulky container shut.

"My vote is for Ghost Gate, that is where the majority of her followers are. I would like to see how their journey has faired," the Dunmer said.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 07:38 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Dec 29 2004, 12:22 AM)

QUOTE(Solin @ Dec 29 2004, 12:24 AM)

"To Ghostgate, then, and I can run down and find Doll if I need to," Allerleirauh said.

She spoke a string of power, and appeared just outside the ghostfence, looking towards the tunnel.

There seemed to be many Ashlanders near... and Dunmer as well.

"I hope all these people don't get eaten by corprus monsters," she said.

Was Loranna with the party after all? She glimpsed a familiar palanquin.

Loranna? she thought.

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 07:39 AM

Arynel whispered a phrase of power, and appeared besides Allerleriauh.

The Breton looked around, but remained silent.

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 07:42 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 01:28 AM)

After a moment, Allie hears a familiar voice in her head.

I'm coming, I'm coming, she says. We should be at Ghostgate in a couple of hours, barring any ... hang on; Cliff Racer ...

A few seconds later ...

... problematic distractions. Oh ... happy belated New Life to you and yours.

Posted by: Solin Dec 29 2004, 07:48 AM

Solin grasped this new string and followed the both of them. As his boots touched the dusty ground on his arrival, he was a bit shocked to find the large number of Ashlanders nearby. This was a place of Almsivi, covered in the Three-in-One's trappings.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 07:49 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 29 2004, 12:32 AM)

New Life never seems like New Life in Morrowind...

Are you aware that you seem to be in two places at once?

"That's not Loranna," she said, out loud to Arynel. "I think we should find Aricyn and strangle him."

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 07:53 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 01:39 AM)

... I've heard, Loranna says, her tone growing inscrutable. I am hoping this doesn't become messy - but I think we both can guess how my Lady will feel about impersonation, even if it may have served her purpose for a brief time.

... Oh; I'm ... sporting a new look, Loranna tells Allie, her tone remaining inscrutable.

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 07:54 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 28 2004, 11:39 PM)

"You're right, that's not her." Arynel said. "But why would Aricyn do something like this? I do not claim to comprehend the mindpaths of that Nord."

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 29 2004, 07:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 01:39 AM)

Aricyn was talking to an elderly Ashlander. They seemed to be getting along well enough. Both were watching over a long line of Ashlanders, each approaching the veiled Incarnate and offering a gift to her. The line was so long that it looked as if she would be accepting gifts well into tomorrow.

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Dec 29 2004, 07:58 AM

Down the slope of Red Mountain a Dumner comes. Heading toward Ghostgate, he carries an enchanted Steel Katana in one hand, and a clothen sack, slung over his shoulder, in the other. He wears what seems to be the same cuirass that Helseth's Royal Guards wear, although it is tattered. His helm and bracers are of admantium. His expression is triumphant and confident. His name is Issa Yojimbo, and he has now just tripped over a protruding rock.

As he stumbles and tumbles and...rumbles...down the slope, he tries to keep his sharp blade away from his body, while trying to keep hold of his bag. Finally, he stops.

After resting at Ghostgate, he steps out to catch a breath of fresh air. As he glances over at Loranna's companions, strange glyphs appear on his blade.

"What the hell IS this sword, dad?", he mutters, half to himself, half to the memory of his father, son of a long-deceased Moth Priest. Issa is not aware that the blade, although not as powerful as many swords, is somehow tied directly to the Elder Scrolls themselves.

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 08:03 AM

Reichi stared at the strange dunmer. "How'd ya get a Royal Guard cuirass?" he asked aloud. "You a deserter or something?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 08:05 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Dec 29 2004, 12:43 AM)

QUOTE(Arynel @ Dec 29 2004, 12:44 AM)

"You're right, that's not her." Arynel said. "But why would Aricyn do something like this? I do not claim to comprehend the mindpaths of that Nord."

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 29 2004, 12:47 AM)

Doll sent me her report at New Life, Allie thought to Loranna. Interesting. Vehk's child can free herself... if she's anything like her father. Little cakes of ash fall under the curse, not ruling kings.

"You're trying to imagine what he thinks, that's the problem," Allerleirauh said to Arynel. "Whereas I have lived my life among Nords, and know he does not think."

She strode through the crowd. The Ashlanders cleared a path instinctively for the tall, silver-haired woman, then looked embarrassed at their own servility.

"Hail, Aricyn, a word!" she called.

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Dec 29 2004, 08:07 AM

Yojimbo glanced nervously at Reichi.

"I..um...found it."

His eyes dart around.

"Yeah...I found it on a trip to the capitol city. NO!! I found it here at Red Mountain! Yeah...strange things you find up here..."

Posted by: w0nders Dec 29 2004, 08:09 AM

"C-corky?" He asked, edging closer to the mysterious guar "Salty" interupted the little girl, Dante forced a smile and nodded at the girl. "You say you have something for me?" He asked patting the guar "Yes, yes I do, wait a second" Exclaimed the guar backing up slightly.

He forced his eyes shut and started to cough queezily, The guars tail slumped to the ground and his mouth jarred open, Dante was watching wide eyed as the guar's tounge rolled out and slapped down on the ashen ground.

After a few more hearty coughs a rather large pearl came rolling down the guars tongue and stopped at Dante's feet. "There you go, now then, im off, got corkbulb for dinner tonight" and at that, the Guar took off back down the foyada, dragging the screaming Dunmer girl behind him.

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 08:10 AM

Reichi raised a Eyebrow. "Right...why would a Royal Guard be on Red Mountain?" he said, now rather unconvinced by the responsce. Not that reichi would turn him in if he stole it, he was just curious. Besides, this might teach the Dunmer to learn to lie better.

Posted by: Nalion Dec 29 2004, 08:11 AM

Nalion feels relieved that the confrontation between the Imperial troops and the ashlanders had not led to a bloodbath on the slopes of Red Mountain... yet. The wary atmosphere still had not yet lessened though, even if the Ashlanders commenced bringing presents to the false "Incarnate".

Nalion rises from the stone at the western slope of the Foyada that he had been sitting at, as he perceived the arrival of Arynel, Solin and Allerleirauh. Shooting a smile to them, he slowly proceeds into their direction.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 29 2004, 08:11 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 01:55 AM)

Aricyn makes his apologies to the Ashland elder, and then passes through the crowd to Allerleirauh and her small company.

"So, you're back," he says, curtly as was usual when he talked to her. Smiling to a passing Ashlander, he led her away from the crowd, to a place a bit more private.

"Where have you been? Have you heard anything from that blasted barmaid? I swear if she doesn't show up soon, THAT girl," he says, motioning towards the palanquin, "is going to be the death of me."

Pausing for a moment, he adds, "Oh, did you want something?"

Posted by: Solin Dec 29 2004, 08:12 AM

Solin waked in the wake of the commanding presence of the silver haired nord. His boots stirred clouds from the dusty ground as he passed. Dust was on everything this close to the mountain.

The Dunmer gives a quick nod to Nalion as he spots him approaching them through the crowd.

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 08:13 AM

Arynel eyed Nalion, and approached the other Breton.

"How does the road treat you, friend?" Arynel asked. "What sites doth the path bring?"

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Dec 29 2004, 08:14 AM

Obviously found out, Yojimbo sits down and sighs.

"Yeah, so I didn't 'just find' it. What's it to ya? Ah, nevermind."

His eyes twinkle a bit.

"Say...would you be interested in purchasing some rare Dwemer artifacts? Since I can see you are a shrewd man, I'll knock off 20%"

Reichi stares at him, half glaring, half puzzled at the Dunmer.

Issa frowns.

"B'vehk. I'm no good at any of this junk. You won't tell the guards, will you? Hey, who are you anyway?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 08:15 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 29 2004, 01:01 AM)

"WHAT 'girl'?" Allerleirauh demanded. "What are you doing? I heard there was almost a battle yesterday, but peace prevailed. Congratulations on for one in your small life not blasting everything to Oblivion. And yes, I have heard from Loranna. She's on her way."

Posted by: Nalion Dec 29 2004, 08:19 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Dec 29 2004, 07:03 AM)

Arynel eyed Nalion, and approached the other Breton.

"How does the road treat you, friend?" Arynel asked. "What sites doth the path bring?"

"It is good to see you again, Arynel. The road treated me well, though it was... dusty the last days." Nalion answered with a smile. "I see you are well, too. You look rested."
Nalion gazed around, eyes narrowing a bit when his gaze fell on the false "Incarnate".
"Things were a bit too close to a bloodshed, for my taste, though. And it seems to me that a bloodshed in front of Ghostgate is the last thing we want."

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 29 2004, 08:21 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 02:05 AM)

"Thank the Wind for that.

"'What girl'? Oh come now, I give you more credit than that. The girl up there, graciously receiving gifts from 'her people'.

Their conversation was momentarily interrupted by a group of passing priests from Balmora, all waving incense and rattling bells.

"And thank you for congratulating me on narrowly avoiding disaster," he says, bowing mockingly. "Open war with the Empire wasn't on my list of things to do for today."

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 08:22 AM

QUOTE(Issa_Yojimbo @ Dec 29 2004, 02:04 AM)

Reichi grinned and scratched his silver haired head. Then said. "Naw, i won't was just curious. You need to work on your lying. I could sme-" he cut himself off. "Er..im Reichi Sari. Formerly of the Morag Tong."

That big mouth of mine will get me killed one day. I swear.

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 08:23 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Dec 29 2004, 12:09 AM)

Arynel silently nodded his head, and frowned.

"I have seen far too much bloodshed, in my time spent with the Nord death." The Breton said. "Far more bloodshed than I had ever thought mortal eyes could comprehened, and not be corrupted."

The Breton paused.

"Perhaps I am." Arynel said. "Can any of us remain as we were, after this is over? Can any of us remain pure? Were we ever?"

Posted by: Loranna Dec 29 2004, 08:23 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 01:55 AM)

Loranna is quiet for a long moment, and by the time Allie feels her about to reply, the silver-haired Nord woman is already speaking to Aricyn.

Loranna listens in but keeps quiet for now ...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 08:28 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 29 2004, 01:11 AM)

"You need to shave," Allie said, more gently. "The ash gets in your stubble, you look almost like a grown man. And you have circles under your eyes. Does Azura know someone is impersonating her? It could be dangerous if she chooses to take offense, don't you think? And what are you doing with all these Ashlanders?"

She bowed to the passing priests and greeted them in their own tongue. "My sources say Saryoni has taken an interest in matters. He's old, he's retired, he may not follow up on what he's started. But have you thought of what to do if the Temple weighs in? If open war erupted between Helseth and the Temple, this land would fall apart."

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Dec 29 2004, 08:31 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 29 2004, 02:12 AM)

"Morang Tong, eh? I suppose this is the first friendly run-in with them I've ever had. Pleased to meet ya, Reichi Sari. M'name's Issa Yojimbo, treasure hunter extraordinaire."

Reichi looked into the Dumer's eyes and saw that only one of them was red. This Issa was clearly not fully Dunmer.

"So! What brings you to Ghostgate? This place isn't exactly a resort, save for the shrine here. I just got back from looting...uh...EXPLORING some ruins. Wacky stuff they have up here"

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 08:35 AM

Reichi grinned wolfishy. This only magnified by his eyes, which while still a crmson red like most dunmer, looked like a wolf's. "Following these folks. They tend to cause alot of collatral damage. I try to help them cut down on that. Or increase it. Whichever is easiest at the time." he said. Still grinning.
Of on the Horizon, the sun began to set, and the moons began to rise. Masser was the first to be seen. Being larger. Though, how two planes of infinity could have diffrent sizes, boggles the mind. Reichi decided not to ponder that too long.

Posted by: Nalion Dec 29 2004, 08:35 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Dec 29 2004, 07:13 AM)

Arynel silently nodded his head, and frowned.

"I have seen far too much bloodshed, in my time spent with the Nord death." The Breton said. "Far more bloddshed than I had ever thought mortal eyes could comprehened, and not be corrupted."

The Breton paused.

"Perhpas I am." Arynel said. "Can any of us remain as we were, after this is over? Can any of us remain pure? Were we ever?"

"I am glad things turned out relatively well the last weeks. No razed cities, slain children or battles on the open field." Nalion shudders as the memories of Solitude, Snowhawk and Stonehills returned.
"And I sincerly doubt we will remain unchanged after this. Too much happened, we have witnessed powers above mortals being wrought on Nirn. I could never have imagined standing so calm beside a daedroth prince. And the killing, no... there are things I have to put right after these events. I have changed, Arynel. I do not know if it is for better or worse, though. I don't know... And I was never 'pure'."
Nalion's eyes seemed to gaze into a distant past.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 29 2004, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 02:18 AM)

"Huh. That would be so sad," he said with no conviction whatsoever.

"Anyway, I have no idea what Loranna knows and what she doesn't, but every movement needs its figurehead, so I needed someone to fill in. She's done a great job so far, actually.

"As for the Ashlanders, they're our new friends. I just love making new friends. That's why I like to travel," he said with an annoying smile.

He turned, as if to say "watch this", and roared the only words that he knew in the Ashland dialect, "PRAISE AZURA!"

The response was deafening, as the calls, horns, and rattling of shields echoed through the small valley.

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 08:38 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Dec 29 2004, 12:25 AM)

"The path is weary, and weary are the feet that walk it." Arynel said to Nalion. "May you find peace, when this trial is over. May we all find solace, when this sentence has passed."

The Breton looked off into the distance.

"All we, are travelers, each along the twisting path from end to end. May we all find rest at it's conclusion."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Dec 29 2004, 08:44 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Dec 29 2004, 01:26 AM)

Allerleirauh glanced at Arynel and Solin, wondering if either were eavesdropping on their conversation.

"So, I take it the reason Loranna can't read your thoughts is that if someone were to crack your head open, it's solid all the way through? Ancient Nordic dream of conquering the land of the Devils and bringing back Shor, is that it? Because the Heart is gone now, you're about a year too late for that. Surely you don't really intend to be king here, or you'd care more about the chaos you're creating."

Posted by: Nalion Dec 29 2004, 08:47 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Dec 29 2004, 07:28 AM)

Nalion flinches at the sound of Aricyns cry and the responding ashlanders. He gave Arynel a thankful glance for his words, then answers.
"Each of us has a burden to carry along the road, on times lighter than a feather, on times heavier than a mountain. Still, the burden has to be carried, and the duty that comes with it. I will carry my burden to the end, but I am glad to know that there are friends like you out there who lighten the burden, sometimes only by being present and speaking comforting words."
Nalion touches Arynels shoulders with a hand.
"Thank you for that."

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Dec 29 2004, 08:49 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Dec 29 2004, 02:25 AM)

"So you guys have been travelling around, eh? Sound like a good deal. Mind if I tag along? If it's not too much trouble. I'm good with a blade..."

Issa twirls the sword around, juggling it in a Revolver Ocelot-esque fashion.

"...and my mother taught me some magicka. Plus, I tell jokes!"

Unbeknownst to everyone else, the glyphs on Yojimbo's sword read "Dawn and Dusk comes to Dawn and Dusk. The Bodyguard must serve the Daedra"

Posted by: Arynel Dec 29 2004, 08:50 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Dec 29 2004, 12:37 AM)

Arynel smiles, and nods.

The Breton turns and walks off, whispering.

"The only weight you must carry is the weight you make your shoulders to lift. The only noose you must wear is the one you place around your neck."

Posted by: Solin Dec 29 2004, 08:51 AM

Solin stood silent nearby. He spoke idly with one of Loranna's pilgrims about the happenings since Balmora. A distinct change in attitude it would seem. He listened in on the Nords' conversation, even if he hadn't been, it would be hard to ignore after Aricyn's Ashlandic shout.

Posted by: Aki Dec 29 2004, 08:53 AM

QUOTE(Issa_Yojimbo @ Dec 29 2004, 02:39 AM)

"Anyone can come..not like theres a place to sign up." Reichi said then pointed to a Khajiit in damaged looking glass armor smoking Skooma."We're not at all very picky.."

Dar'var, the Khajiit, meanwhile, was having a rather vivid halucination about Red mountain erupting and spraying moonsugar everywhere.

Posted by: Rhedd Dec 29 2004, 08:57 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Dec 29 2004, 02:34 AM)

"I like having you with us, otherwise I'd miss a good Nordic sense of humor.

"No, I believe that the reason Loranna can't read my thoughts is that Azura isn't the ONLY goose in the pond. And," he says with a frown, "personally I'd rather burn this ugly place than rule it, so no, I have no intention of fulfilling 'ancient Nordic dreams". NEW Nordic dreams... maybe.

"You are right, however; I don't actually want the place to fall into chaos so deep that it can't be pulled out, by the right person. Thank you for the advice."

Smiling suddenly to break a thoughtful look, he adds, "You know, I stopped trying to figure you out a LONG time ago. I rest better now. You should try to do the same. You're starting to look tired."