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

Posted by: Loranna Jan 2 2005, 11:22 PM

Much happened in the previous installment of this thread; plans have been set in motion by many and plans already set in motion slowly come to fruition. More summary is forthcoming - hopefully.

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 Seventeen begins ... in the new Year!

Posted by: niceguy5 Jan 2 2005, 11:25 PM

Dane made his way through the crowd, to Loranna. “It’s been a long time since I’ve gotten to speak to milady” Dane said as he bows, He looks up but has a harder look on his face“Loranna, do not forget about us. For the past days I have been friends to your worshipers, I have heard their conversations; they wish to fight in the name of Azura they wish to die for their princess, even when I turned immortal in Skyrim I still had hope in me. I knew you could change all of this…I had faith in you… You can always look to your champions to aid you…” Dane says as he eased his voice, eyeing Allie, Aricyn, and Dagoth, with a slight smile “…But they will always make the first attack” Dane points to the mass crowd of Loranna’s followers “…They are your champions, and that is all I have to say…” Dane slowy steeped back into the crowd

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 2 2005, 11:26 PM

ooc -- It's no longer the Evening Star parade though, is it?

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 2 2005, 11:30 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 2 2005, 04:16 PM)

ooc -- It's no longer the Evening Star parade though, is it?

ooc: No, it is still the Parade, for they have not yet completed the pilgrimages (sp?).

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 2 2005, 11:30 PM

Summary:

Elysana, the Queen of Wayrest, is imprisoned in the Hlaalu Canton in Vivec. She is discussing the situation with the Loranna/Azura cult and her own impending execution with her stepbrother and captor, Helseth, King of Morrowind. Another man is present in the jail cell as well ...

Celarus, the Loremaster of Artaeum, is waiting on B, who is recovered from his experience in Oblivion, to explain his actions. He is furious with the Psijic.

Lord Dres Gaor is very busy. He is coordinating shipments across Vvardenfell to feed the worshippers of Azura, planning a ruse to allow the shipments to pass secretly under the Imperial noses, and trying to rout out the thief who stole the offerings to Azura.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 2 2005, 11:31 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jan 2 2005, 05:20 PM)

ooc: No, it is still the Parade, for they have not yet completed the pilgrimages (sp?).

ooc -- But it's no longer Evening Star.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 2 2005, 11:40 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 2 2005, 05:16 PM)

ooc -- It's no longer the Evening Star parade though, is it?

OOC: Weeelll ... good point; thing is though do we start with Morning Star or Sun's Dawn? I kinda like Morning Star myself ...

Summary for Loranna:

After Arynel's bold actions inspired her to trust to her own voice again, Loranna soon found that dealing with people and nobles still required a fair bit of playing the part of the goddess as opposed to just being the tavern girl she felt herself at heart to still be. Still, she took some comfort in the thought that there was still hope for the bright future that she had once long ago dreamed of helping bring about; said bright future no longer closely resembled what her younger self thought but the essence was still the same, and for that Loranna was grateful.

Looking ahead, Loranna made plans to start moving the parade toward Vivec, and considering some advice from Allie she likewise made plans to seperate herself from the group again for Sen-Yedda's safety. She also came out and told Allerleirauh her feelings for her and for everyone, embracing a second person with her thoughts without intent to confuse or incapacitate. While finalizing her plans with Allie and Aricyn however, Azura spoke through Loranna, bidding the failed Incarnate to travel to Suran to be given a second chance to fulfill her destiny.

Now, Loranna wonders what lies in wait for them in Suran - and why Azura specifically mentioned the Boyant Armigers in her words to her. She waits for Aricyn to bring word of the new plans to the others.

===

Loranna blinks as Dane suddenly appears, his words echoing in her mind as she watches him leave as quickly as he came ...

... That was ... interesting ... she thinks to herself.

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 2 2005, 11:42 PM

OoC: Stop debating, spamming, and wasting our precious 200 posts per thread...
---
Summary
===
Erenius was busy dealing with various things, namely a shortage of food, a primitie census of the people, and helping Dres Gaor as best he could with his search for the thief of the donations. Currently overworked, Erenius began his way towards Loranna.

Also, Erenius' former left hand, Azure had left High Rock as a stowaway upon one of Elysana's ships leaving the province. Upon it docking in Vivec, he stole off and paid for passage to Ghostgate with a few other pilgrims on a Strider which was attacked. After a good while unconscious, Azure awoke, borrowed supplies from two kind mages who found him, and made his way to Ghostgate. There, Azure left the people there and spoke with Nalion for a while before making his way back to the ceremonies.
===

*Erenius picked his way across the crowds towards Loranna. He was far from tidy in appearance, or mood, but he had little choice as he had few others truley helping him*

Posted by: Dumbkid Jan 2 2005, 11:43 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 2 2005, 05:21 PM)

ooc -- But it's no longer Evening Star.

OOC: Samuel only Dreugh. But Samuel think Dam Dog right. It now Morning Star.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 2 2005, 11:49 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 2 2005, 05:32 PM)

...

*Erenius picked his way across the crowds towards Loranna. He was far from tidy in appearance, or mood, but he had little choice as he had few others truley helping him*

Loranna, having just finished listening to Allie sing another song to Sen-Yedda, senses Erenius approaching and says to her companion " ... One moment dear; I feel someone coming with news for me ..."

Stepping out of the room, she meets Erenius, noting his haggard look. " ... Yes dear; what is it?" she asks, a concerned frown on her face.

Posted by: Nalion Jan 2 2005, 11:51 PM

Summary:
In the last installment, Nalion went through a series of changes, triggered by the events that Loranna, Allerleihrauh and Arynel had triggered at Ghostgate. He deliberately broke his ties to Great House Telvanni, which resulted in him being expelled by the House. He then sought solitude in the wastes of the Red mountain region, reliving his past and finally found his peace of mind when his love Lirielle, who died 15 years ago by a disease, seemed to appear in front of him, bearing a final farewell. The bridges to his past finally torn down, he is free to pursue his own path, wherever it may lead him...

Ghostgate:
Nalion emerges from Ghostgate, his torn robe replaced by a hooded common and unadorned one, sturdy and useful for travel. He still posesses his staff and a dagger of senses, with which he was practicing recently.
He held himself upright, where former he was often seen with slumped shoulders. His brown eyes seemed to shine somehow. He gazed at the crowd in front of him, looking for familiar faces.

Posted by: Aki Jan 2 2005, 11:53 PM

Summary- Reichi has continued to mull around Ghostgate, jump around on the stone spires of the ashlands suround the gate and learned of Lord Dres's plan on how to scare the populace of seyda neen into sending the Imperial legion so Loranna and her parade can pass pass Pelagiad with notice. But he thinks he has a better idea.

Dar'var is hanging around in the Tower of Dawn.walking around in his glass armor and a makeshift cloak made from the wereliones he helped kill earlier.

Tarenen has moved the hunters north of the entry to vivec, due to the Temples support of Loranna. A engagement with Loranna's parade in Vivec became unfavorable due to the backup the temple could provide.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reichi wandered by the food carts and noticed all the food seemed to be rotten. He mumbled a curse and wandered off towards the edge of camp. Ignoring the 200 or so good crates left by a Ghostfence pylon. Once again it was night.

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 2 2005, 11:56 PM

*Erenius nods to Loranna before continuing*

"The food is running quite low, and according to Lord Dres Gaor nothing will be arriving for a good while, two or three days he says. Moreso, we have only 200 crates left, far less than we need to feed even half of your followers for a day, nevermind two..." Erenius says, frustrated at the vermin, the ash, just everything really right now. "Also, are you aware of all the donations made till recently stolen by someone? I want to look upon them, but found all the redware jars usually filled with coins missing, and the basket for items also gone..."

"Things are not going as they should," Erenius continues. "And if you are far from careful in revealing this to others, there will certainly be a panic. That is all I bring to you for now, and I apologize about being the bearer of this bad news with no good to water it with..."

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 12:06 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 2 2005, 05:46 PM)

Loranna has a sudden sinking feeling that whatever Azura has in mind in Suran may have already gotten started right here.

" ... And the demands of destiny are pulling us on a new, unexpected direction," she says, her frown becoming more pronounced. "Aricyn goes even now to tell Lord Gaor that our path now lies along Suran, thanks to ... unexpected events."

" ... Have you discussed the food situation with either Lord Liris or Gaor yet?" she asks.

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 12:09 AM

"I already have spoken to Gaor and he said that he was moving things fast as he could," Erenius replies. "Also mentioned something about a decoy off Seyda Neen I believe it was. Also, for the time being, I'm preparing things for a rationing of our crates for now...all people are getting 1/4 rations, but I think it will last us only till midday tomorrow. And thats assuming none of us take anything from it as well."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 12:24 AM

OOC: Arynel is a Breton, recently he used a sword to mark Loranna for all eyes to see, he is currently with the rest of the group at Ghostgate, what his plans are, if he even has any, are his own, and won't be revealed this easily.

Arynel sat on an old grey rock on the outskirts of the camp, scratching his chin, and eyeing the passing clouds.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 12:25 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 2 2005, 05:59 PM)

Loranna considers, feeling a small, almost quiet, idea taking shape in the back of her mind. Azura could probably do something to abate the famine, or at the very least the peoples' hunger ...

" ... That sounds like the only recourse available right now," she says to Erenius. "Talk to Lord Liris and Lord Gaor about setting the rationing up while we work on getting additional supplies here. We will have to discuss how best to get new supplies, either waiting here or trying to meet them halfway."

Loranna wonders how so much food could have gone bad so quickly; surely someone caring for the food knew how to preserve it in this weather?

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 12:28 AM

"And if you must know, I looked at several of the containers, and almost all of them had traces of vermin..." Erenius says, sensing her confusion over this matter. "It would have helped if people were worrying more about their meals than listening to other things. I hold nothing against you, for now at least...send someone to Moonmoth to buy supplies there and send them up the Foyada...they should arrive by morning when we need them most."

*With that suggestion, Erenius takes a quick bow, turns around and goes to talk with either Liris or Gaor, whomever he finds first*

Posted by: Issa_Yojimbo Jan 3 2005, 12:31 AM

Issa Yojimbo had been juggling his sword around, waiting for the Parade to move on.

He now has a bit of a scar on his abdomen from his spar with Reichi.

He almost lost his sanity completely, but the thrill of battle and a good flin helped him keep a level head.

He is now resting about 50 feet from the crowd, behind a rather large rock, whittling a fish from some wood he found.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 12:40 AM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 2 2005, 06:18 PM)

Loranna raises her eyebrows at Erenius as he leaves, noting his somewhat ... unhappy state of mind. For a second she wondered about his choice of wording ...

... but then, she was the Goddess as far as everyone was concerned. So maybe he had a point, even if Loranna had to wonder how people could forget to check their food supplies ...

" ... I see it's time for a new homily; Sing praises to Azura's Star, while you upkeep your larder," she mutters ...

Posted by: Aki Jan 3 2005, 12:48 AM

Near the carts of food piles near the Ghostfence Pylon Guar bodies began to steadily apear. No one seemed to watching.Steadily the pile grew. Anyone who was watched could have seen a large hooded figure leaving the carcasses there.

Anyone who checked the bodies would find claws marks and tooth marks. One might even observe that the pattern was similars to a Wolf's, very similar. Around the bodies, pawprints resembling a Wolf's were scattered about. They however were much larger than a normal wolf's pawprint.

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 12:59 AM

*Erenius wanders back to the carts just to gaze upon his bad luck*

"Yet more bad luck it would seem," Erenius mumbles as he looks over all of the guars that were killed. "Not what I was expecting, but at least I think we have no more food issues, at least for tonight and part of tomorrow..."

Posted by: Wolf-Fang Nazgoth Jan 3 2005, 02:02 AM

There are, on rare occasions, a union between a mortal and a Daedra. The mortal usually attracted to the Daedras power, and awe. The Daedra by the mortals mortality, its will to live, regardless of the inevitable. There was such a union, which at the time bore the proud name Nazgoth....

30 years later, the lineage of the Nazgoth was thought to be all but destroyed, but, as the mother, who had traveled to Valenwood so as to keep hidden, gave birth to a child. She died soon after. The child was an awe striking sight indeed, a mix of Dunmer, and daedra, with horns, fangs, and claws, alone, in the wilderness. Grace was upon the child that day, as a ranger happened to be passing by. He was a wise man, and did not judge the child by his looks. As the child grew older, the ranger taught him literacy and other school subjects, at which he excelled to some degree, but, the ranger saw his true talent...This boy was a hunter.

....One night, disaster struck..The ranger, whom had grown to share a tight bond with the boy, was murdered by assassins. The boy was returning home from a hunt, when he found his mentors slumped corpse on the cabin floor....

The ranger spoke, using each ounce of life he had left, "Seek..out..The..Kaz'a Dul..Wolf..." The ranger said no more, but handed the boy a chain, which had a wolfs fang on it, and something engraved on the fang...It said Wolf. For the first time, the boy wept.

Wolf grabbed his masters longsword, sheathed it, grabbed his bow, got his quiver, and swore that vengeance WOULD be his.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 02:28 AM

ooc summary:

Allerleirauh, a tall, slender woman with silver hair who claims to be a Nord, remains with the party. Loranna has requested her presence on the next leg of the journey, which is making her a little nervous. In the last installment, she had a very interesting conversation with Aricyn; those two seem to be getting along better than before. She and Arynel talked, and she said that her current plan involved trying to instruct Sen-Yedda in the womb, as Vehk was instructed when he was in the womb. She also made a brief, but very important, trip back to Daggerfall in the last installment.

Dragon and Skein remain at Solunastra.

Tris and Ciel are moving ever closer to Morrowind, by way of the Mages' Guild. Ciel is disguised, using magic, as a spiffy looking gentleman of partly Imperial, partly Breton extraction.

Doll has a plan which involves pretending to be a slave and gaining the confidence of the other slaves. Towards this purpose, she and Solin bought some moonsugar to share with the Khajiit slaves.

Mirea is spying for Allerleirauh, somewhere.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 02:46 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 2 2005, 05:14 PM)

Allerleirauh leaped lightly to the top of the rock and sat down. "I have a letter from Master B. He's awake. And Loranna is planning to travel by way of Suran, for some reason. Azura took her over again to give instructions. I didn't like the sound of them. And the camp is stirring like a kicked hornet's nest. Seems someone stole the donations, and the food has gone off in the heat."

Posted by: Wolf-Fang Nazgoth Jan 3 2005, 03:04 AM

A figure approached the Ghostgate...How odd...A mottley assortment of adventurers, perhaps...Odd, though, that they should choose any place near Red Mountain for Adventuring...He took a puff from his pipe and continued. He noticed a breton, looking slightly apprehensive at the sky..Under his hood, Wolf examined the area....Ash and dust, mostly...No good for tracking animals...But...Men and Mer were another story...Wolf sat down. It had been a long journey, might as well take a rest.

Posted by: Aki Jan 3 2005, 03:10 AM

Then, there was a Singular isolated Howl. Not a low rumbling howl of a Silt Strider, but the higher and more ethereal howl of a wolf. On a stone spire a Lupine figure could be seen, until a cliffracer attacked it and it fell, barking obscenities at the Cliffracer.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 03:15 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 2 2005, 06:36 PM)

"The food has gone bad?" Arynel inquired. "That is very strange, dry air usually serves to preserve organic material. Perhaps it is something in the ash."

The Breton turned to face Allerleirauh.

"I am glad to see B is well. How are you?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 03:28 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 2 2005, 08:05 PM)

She smiled. "No one ever asks me that. I have an advantage over you, I like it when things get ugly. It's what I was bred for."

She ran her fingers through the back of his hair.

"I get frustrated sometimes, when it looks as if disaster is inevitable. But Celarus was right about that, disaster is not the exception, but part of the way the system works. We haven't had a really big one for, oh, about as long as I've been alive. Maybe it's time. The important things will survive. Thank you for reminding me of that."

Posted by: B Jan 3 2005, 03:34 AM

QUOTE

There is a knock on his door, and Loremaster Celarus enters. He is not smiling.

'You are doing better, I see. Responding well to the herbs and healing spells, that's good,' he said, and removed a small gem from his pocket. 'I have something to return to a friend of yours, and a message for her about it. But I would like it if you could explain yourself to my satisfaction. Your actions seem to me, at the very best, impulsive and irresponsible.'

Artaeum, Summurset

As Loremaster Celarus entered the room, B quickly leapt from his bed and stood. He was fully dressed and preparing to find the Altmer that now stood in front of him. Celarus had saved him a trip. But B knew that Celarus did him no favors by coming to see him. He could tell that his master was not pleased. When Celarus spoke, B’s beliefs were confirmed.

After bowing slightly, B spoke, “Master, I realize my actions seem foolish. I am fully aware of the danger that could have resulted from my excursion, and I take full blame for my actions.” B swallowed hard and then continued. “You have always taught us to do what is needful and no more, and I felt as if something needed to be done. Certainly, the end does not justify the means, but I feel that a greater good can be achieved through what I have learned. Master, you yourself have said ‘It is the duty of the disciplined Psijic to dilute change where it brings greed, gluttony, sloth, ignorance, prejudice, cruelty. . ., and to encourage change where it brings excellence, beauty, happiness, and enlightenment.’ I was merely trying to counterbalance the oegnithr by any means necessary, but perhaps it is I that was ignorant. Perhaps I am guilty of that which I was trying to prevent. I am at your mercy, Master. Please give me guidance, if you feel I am still a worthy pupil.”

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 03:39 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 2 2005, 07:18 PM)

Arynel's shoulders relaxed as Allerleirauh ran her fingers through his hair.

"Maybe I don't care anymore?" He mumbled to himself, almost thinking aloud. "Maybe it doesn't matter?"

He raised his voice a step and spoke to Allerleirauh, but did not turn his head.

"I think the road will always offer challenges, perhaps that is best, I do not know. Perhaps sometimes an old road must be left behind, and burnt away. Remind you of that? What did I remind you of?"

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 03:43 AM

Summary for Dur’el, Kasha, and Allimar:

Dur’el is currently trapped in another realm fighting for his freedom against the deadly assassin, Left Hand. The powers of the assassin seem great but Dur’el has just revealed he can duel wield Shehais’, shifting the power balance. Meanwhile Kasha runs to the battle ground, with Allimar trailing behind, and her objectives are unknown...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 03:46 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 2 2005, 08:29 PM)

"Of what's important, of course," she said lightly. "What we are, what we choose to be. Loranna makes you most angry not because Azura might enslave the Dunmer or destroy the Wheel, but because she fails herself so badly. Am I right?"

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 2 2005, 07:36 PM)

Arynel sat silently for a time, and then spoke.

"Can the man who is a mouse be the hawk who turns to feast?" The Breton began. "You cannot fail at being yourself, the mouse plays as a mouse as well as any, and the hawk as well as any hawk. She plays too many parts."

The Breton took a deep breath.

"I wonder, if a man plays no parts, perhaps he cannot fail, but if a man plays no parts, how can he hope to succeed?"

Posted by: Celarus Jan 3 2005, 03:58 AM

Artaeum, Summurset

QUOTE(B @ Jan 2 2005, 09:24 PM)

After bowing slightly, B spoke, “Master, I realize my actions seem foolish. I am fully aware of the danger that could have resulted from my excursion, and I take full blame for my actions.” B swallowed hard and then continued. “You have always taught us to do what is needful and no more, and I felt as if something needed to be done. Certainly, the end does not justify the means, but I feel that a greater good can be achieved through what I have learned. Master, you yourself have said ‘It is the duty of the disciplined Psijic to dilute change where it brings greed, gluttony, sloth, ignorance, prejudice, cruelty. . ., and to encourage change where it brings excellence, beauty, happiness, and enlightenment.’ I was merely trying to counterbalance the oegnithr by any means necessary, but perhaps it is I that was ignorant. Perhaps I am guilty of that which I was trying to prevent. I am at your mercy, Master. Please give me guidance, if you feel I am still a worthy pupil.”

“Your friends have already been here and spoken eloquently in your defense,” Celarus said, still frowning. ‘I can understand why you felt the need to act. But there must have been a reason why you did not seek my counsel on the matter. You did not want to listen to the voice of caution – you had made up your mind to do a thing, whatever the consequence. And now you have done it. You have the true name of Azura and you intend to use it, do you?’

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 04:00 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 2 2005, 08:45 PM)

"You can fail at being yourself," Allerleirauh said. "We are called for, we are desired. None of us were born to be mice. This is not an empty box for just anything to be put inside it; this is Arena, where we test our strength and improve it. You have within you your heart's desire, and so has Loranna. When you know what that is, and how to become it, then you will be free."

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 3 2005, 04:01 AM

"Here we have treason!" Five cried, as they hefted a Dagon Worshipper, and threw him into the canals. This group did not know they were helping the Daedra's cause, but still one more potential enemy was gone. Over the past hours more and more of the city's ugly vice was cleaned. The violence was all rather organized though, not like an uprising. Ordinators went in and quickly found their targets - either saw their guilt as in this case or put them to trial. Excesses were few and far between, because the positive aspects of religion could be apparent here. Those who became too extreme were often told to go home before they caused great damage.

In the office of the watch, Serethi Indoril, a minor noble of the family, was taking stock of the recent events. He signed warrants for arrests, gave orders for his Ordinators, such police-work which would be required in a holy city. Suddenly, the door opened, revealing his constable. He had evidently dashed some distance to get here, as he was panting and trying to catch his breath. "Word has reached us...one of the couriers is missing," He said, between breaths," Couriers of the city were often young men, who delivered messages and news. Lately they had been passing word over the current reform.

"Where was he last seen?" The Indoril asked.

"At the Hlaalu Canton,"

"Well, I will go with some Ordinators to investigate the matter. Have you detained the witnesses, set a watch?...Good."

Serethi donned his magnificent scimitar, a gift from his father, and set out across the streets, smart with his silvery Indoril armor, and five Ordinators in tow. At the destined canton, Serethi's investigation pointed to the Courier's abduction in the canton directly after stating the new law code to those citizens walking by. Serethi began to search the area, checking the apartments adjacent to the Courier's final location. In one apartment, Serethi found a family sitting down to dinner - after a quick check he moved on. Next , a friendly armorer gave the officers a quick demonstration of his metalwork. Finally, Serethi came to an isolated door. It was silent, as if some spell had been designed to keep noise from coming out.

To no surprise, it was tightly locked. "By the name of Almsivi, open this door!" He hollered, and placed a hand on his sheathed blade.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 04:05 AM

The time in-between time…

Kasha runs across the desolate, drizzly, field, only thinking about the lone, leafless tree, and Dur’el. Allimar slowly follows behind. Running as fast as his pudgy, little legs will take him, with a large pack on his back containing, among other things, Dur’el’s Book of Circles scroll, food, potions, and Allimar’s collection of rocks he had collected over the years... Which, he now wished he hadn’t.

Kasha comes over a hill and sees Dur’el fighting Left Hand.

“Al, hurry up.” Kasha whispers to the trailing Bosmer.

“I’m going… as fast as… I can.” Allimar says through gasping breaths.

Once Allimar catches up Kasha makes a slight motion with her hands and both, her and Allimar disappear. In her invisible state, Kasha runs by the battling Dur’el and Left Hand, watching in admiration at the historic battle that lighted the sky with clashing fireworks. Kasha and Allimar soon get to the old tree Dur’el and Left Hand are fighting behind.

“It should be around here somewhere…” Kasha says feeling around the old tree.

“What, what is it?” Allimar proclaims.

“Found it!” Kasha boasts, as she turns to Allimar. “This.”

Kasha stands behind the tree, then sticks her arm out and Allimar watches in disbelieve as half of Kasha’s arm disappears, as if there was a see-through curtain she put her arm behind.

Meanwhile in Morrowind, a Dunmer sitting on a rock, close to GhostGate gasps in shock as half an arm appears in the sky.

Posted by: B Jan 3 2005, 04:10 AM

QUOTE(Celarus @ Jan 2 2005, 08:48 PM)

Artaeum, Summurset
“Your friends have already been here and spoken eloquently in your defense,” Celarus said, still frowning. ‘I can understand why you felt the need to act. But there must have been a reason why you did not seek my counsel on the matter. You did not want to listen to the voice of caution – you had made up your mind to do a thing, whatever the consequence. And now you have done it. You have the true name of Azura and you intend to use it, do you?’

Artaeum, Summurset

“I am glad to hear that my friends have spoken better on my behalf than I have done. My actions have no true justification, I fear. Yes, I was afraid to hear words of caution. You might have instructed me to mind my own business and ignore those things in the outside world, but I did not come to my decision in a mere fraction of a second. I labored hard with the choice for days, albeit without your counsel, and for that I am truly ashamed.”

“The possession of Azura’s true name is not something I take lightly. I may never come to use it.”

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 04:11 AM

Ghostgate

"Any luck on your end?" asked Wyrloc, one Gaor's knights to another, a disguised Ohmes-Raht in rags named Razbet.

'No,' said the Khajiit. 'No one saw a thing that I can find. Maybe it's an inside job. Perhaps Azura herself took the gold.'

'Watch your tongue, cat.'

'I'm just saying, it's possible,' Razbet shrugged. He was in this for the money, not for any devotion to the Daedra or loyalty to one group or another. 'But I know some people who could be coerced into confessing if it comes to that.'

'It might,' Wyrlock nodded. 'But let us try to find the real thief first.'

Posted by: Celarus Jan 3 2005, 04:20 AM

Artaeum, Summurset

QUOTE(B @ Jan 2 2005, 10:00 PM)

“I am glad to hear that my friends have spoken better on my behalf than I have done. My actions have no true justification, I fear. Yes, I was afraid to hear words of caution. You might have instructed me to mind my own business and ignore those things in the outside world, but I did not come to my decision in a mere fraction of a second. I labored hard with the choice for days, albeit without your counsel, and for that, I am truly ashamed.”

“The possession of Azura’s true name is not something I take lightly. I may never come to use it.”

Celarus chuckled, not with pleasure. 'You do not take the possession of Azura's true name lightly? Well, that is indeed a relief. I am glad you are not cavalier about plans to undo the universe, my boy.

Rest assured that though you do not seek my counsel on matters of extreme urgency, I will be watching you and your actions very closely from this point on. There is a vast difference between power and wisdom you seem to have forgotten, and I would like to believe that you have not forgotten all lessons learned on this island.

This gem,' the Master said, handing it to B. 'Will cause forgetfulness. It occured to me that I should use it on you, so that you would cause no harm with this knowledge you have gained. But it is better for you to prove that you can have this power, and use it wisely, not to correct a balance which may be entirely imagined.'

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 04:20 AM

Doll:

"I have heard," Doll whispered to her newfound Khajiit friend, "That Azura is kind and good and wants to free the slaves. Do you think it might be true? Azura is special to the Khajiit, isn't she? Someone should ask her, when everyone is listening, so that she can tell our masters to free us."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 04:25 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 2 2005, 07:50 PM)

"I know what I want." The Breton said to Alllerleirauh. "I want to walk the road as it is given, to travel as my feet carry me, from the mountain to the sea. To find the place where all paths end, and all threads have long since run out...."

Arynel's words faded out.

Posted by: B Jan 3 2005, 04:32 AM

Artaeum, Summurset

QUOTE(Celarus @ Jan 2 2005, 09:10 PM)

This gem,' the Master said, handing it to B. 'Will cause forgetfulness. It occured to me that I should use it on you, so that you would cause no harm with this knowledge you have gained. But it is better for you to prove that you can have this power, and use it wisely, not to correct a balance which may be entirely imagined.'

B couldn’t help but smile at his master’s words. He knew he would have to win back Celarus’ faith, but he was glad to be given the chance. “Thank you,” B said as he took the gem from Loremaster Celarus. “I will give this back to Allerleirauh along with the information. I pray I will make you proud of me once more.”

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 04:39 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 2 2005, 09:15 PM)

"You have sung songs to gladden my heart in the past," Allerleirauh said. "I think it is time I returned the favor."

She turned to look back towards the encampment. Her voice, pure and sweet, rose above the ash colored hills in an ancient Breton measure.

"Ah, my love, may Mara protect you since I cannot, and Magnus's cloak shield you from all eyes - alas, here comes the Dawn..."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 04:51 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 2 2005, 08:29 PM)

Arynel sat silently, listening to Allerleirauh sing, her words weighed heavily on his brow, and his eyelids lowered.

The Breton's breathing eased, and his whole body relaxed.

After a time, his eyes reopened, but he did not speak.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 04:51 AM

Since I have not done a post in a while, we shall check the status of the Characters I currently have under my control...

Maranda, aka Maranda Bienne of Narsis (alias)
Currently residing in Ebonheart... had a base in the Puzzle Canal, Vivec, intill it was raided by the Temple... her goal is to Capture Loranna, and is currently working with King Hesleth. She is currently on her way to speak to someone, but who it is, is unknown to everyone but myself...

Shardie (last name unknown)
THe mysterious Shardie is returning to Vivec to retrieve the Moon Riever Sword from the Dremora, Krazzt. A supporter of the Nine Divines, she has somthing sneaky and treacherous up her sleave...

Daidez (Alias)
Still somewhere in Skyrim, recovering from wounds...

'He-Who-Hunts-Elves'
In Ebonheart, drinking exspensive Flin... in other words not doing much

Meridia
Looking down somewhat angrily, wondering if she should once more take control of the situation... things are not going as planned, afterall

Posted by: Aki Jan 3 2005, 04:58 AM

The Rays of Dawn apeared on the Horizon and sun slowly rose. The night retreated as the sun rose higher. Meanwhile, Reichi turned back to normal. His clothing mostly ruined, save his robe. He stretched, and grinned.

"Have to do that more often...very Invigorating...Not to mention Guar is rather tastey..", he said to himself. He walked off back towards Ghostgate.

Posted by: Girai_Harkaanius Jan 3 2005, 05:14 AM

Character Status:

Girai Harkaanius (Cyrodiilic Scholar) and his mentor Therogar (Ancient Nordic Mage) are waiting for the imminent revenge from a Daedric Prince for Girai's betrayal of her plan to kill Loranna. Therogar still is willing to fight for life, while Girai seems to have accepted his fate. Death seems rather near as Girai sits quietly in his master's cave in Northern Skyrim (near the Bard's College city of Solitude) reading "The Monomyth".

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

Girai looked over at his master seemingly working on the book he was writing. Not like it mattered, they would probably both be dead soon. Girai remembered the look in Loranna's eyes, the image of her father.. whatever happened his choice was worth it. Now she had a chance of resisting the darkness that would kill her child. Azura was still a threat to her and the realm however, a threat that did not seem to have much chance of departing any time soon now...

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 05:23 AM

A warm wind blew through the cave, which Girai inhabited, strange, seeing it was the middle of winter, and a small figure appeared...
'Repent and you will find no death... fight, and you shall find eternal pain...' the figure shimmed and disappeared, 'So says Prince Meridia' the words blew through the room, 'you have five minutes to respond'

Posted by: Girai_Harkaanius Jan 3 2005, 05:31 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 2 2005, 07:13 PM)

Girai looked about and got up. Therogar sat there and simply continued his writing. Girai looked at the figure and spoke quietly, "You have no power over eternal pain Meridia, wielder of energies. I'm afraid you will find my weak body very susceptible to death. It is not fitting for one to repent of doing what is right, of sparing one's mortality. Hence I do not intend to repent nor is there any worth in fighting a great Spirit. Do what you came to do or leave this place." He looked over at Therogar and spoke again more boldly. "Neither will save you from the One."

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 05:34 AM

There was silence... three minutes had passed...

Posted by: Girai_Harkaanius Jan 3 2005, 05:37 AM

Girai sat down again and waited. He locked eyes with his master briefly. Therogar would put up a fight and Girai knew it. He looked into the old Nord's eyes and shook his head. "It is not our role." Therogar leaned back again. Girai knew he had enough enchantments in this cave to perhaps put up a fight. That would do no good however.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 05:41 AM

'So that is your desision?' The voice spoke, 'Eternal pian may not be my Sphere, but I can make you feel the pain of your life being sucked out of you at a slow, and painful rate... Leave, Wizard, I have no problem with you, Betrayer of my Priest, Girai, you shall die...'
A powerful wind blew through the room, extinguishing every light... a blue haze appeared near the entrance...

Posted by: Girai_Harkaanius Jan 3 2005, 05:46 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 2 2005, 07:31 PM)

Girai stood. "May Justice be brought about by even you, Ancient Demon." Therogar stood as well. "I will not have my pupil brought to the afterlife without me. May the payment be shared by both of us." Girai smiled at him.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 05:52 AM

The hazy turned out to be a strange blue mist, which slowly approched the two of them, and spoke in a strangly familiar voice
So that is your choice, foolish mortals then that is that... the mist split in two, and approched each of them, There is still time to repent, Girai, and Therogar

Posted by: Anghardel67 Jan 3 2005, 06:10 AM

"No no, dear Azrael; Briaata' cannot tell you why she has come here--you must leave right now, Briaata' will return to the guild of mages soon, soon enough, she says. You must turn around and leave, and forget what you have seen here on your way out. Briaata' can help you with that. . ."

Khajiits had always been a tad difficult to read, at least for Azrael; with the lack of expressions found in the more humanoid races (though, they did show some traits) in most of their faces, one had to rely on a slight flick of the tail, ruffling of the hairs on their shoulders, twitch of their whiskers. If you were not careful, it was quite easy to become so enthralled with searching for faint clues in their physical behaviors that you might forget yourself, and the surrounding world.

Seventy-five years of tracking, training, and experience had taught Azrael to concentrate on the entire 'other', and not to be so picky; this situation, in which he found himself so desperately trying to look for a motion that might clear up his confusion, reminded him vaguely of times past. . .times where he was forced to learn, and do so quickly.

"Briaata', if you do not wish to tell me why you are here, trust that I will not share information concerning this place with any other--you and I will know, but it will stop there. I am going, please, return to the Mages guild soon, I must speak with you concerning a guild matter."

Briaata' growled, pursing the muscles around her teeth, emulating the curled lips of a Dunmer Azrael had encountered once in the past. "Azrael must understand, Briaata' cannot trust him, and he must not leave this place. . .alive. Briaata' only hopes Azrael understands her now--if he does not, she does not care, her time to speak is over."

Ang

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 06:52 AM

Arynel sat silently for a time, and then wove his arms. A lute appeared in the Breton’s hands, and he began to sing:

Wisdom sought by wayfarers
Always concerns the sea
Wisdom sought by citizens
Always concerns the king
Wisdom sought by wanderers
The path will make so clear
Wisdom found on the unseen road
Always writes itself on whispered tears

Once finished, he wove his arms a second time, and the lute vanished.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 3 2005, 07:29 AM

(a few days later, Skyrim, Therogar's cave)

'We have not heard from Theogar in a while, I hope he is alright...' replied one of the Nords that were sent to check on the ancient wizard.
'Well, a few nights ago, some travelers heard tortured screams comming from the cave, we better check on them,' A second Nord said, entering the cave.There seemed to be signs of a battle... the walls were scorched from fireballs, arrows and swords were laying about, and two bodies lay in the far corner... the Nords ran over to them, one of the bodies looked like the very life had been sucked out of him, the Nord noticed it as Theogar's student, Girai... he seemed like he died in very great pain... one of the other nords shouted for help, it seemed Theogar was still alive, but only just... They reported this to the chief of the expedition, who wondered what sort of creature could defeat the great wizard Theogar and his student so easily...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 07:43 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 3 2005, 12:19 AM)

Daggerfall: Solunastra Guild House

In the walled garden at the back of the house, Skein was doing what she loved to do best; watching spiders. Magic cast on the ground kept the place temperate, if not warm.

She stood up, wiping tears from her eyes.

"A great hero died today," she said. "Somewhere."

Posted by: w0nders Jan 3 2005, 08:59 AM

Summary-

Recently Merciander has informed Brum and Inzoliah of their new found allies and their new objective, the two now travel towards the city of Vivec. Meanwhile, Illidan is trying to forget his recent troubles with his good friend, shein, and Dante is simply waiting for the party to pick up again and is taking in various conversations.

Ghostgate

I wonder who that cloaked fellow was, and what he and that dunmer woman wanted.. he thought, continueing to flip the drake repeadetly. I know them, they were there when you got that nifty little scar Dante, same time I came into the picture Upon hearing this, Dante froze slightly, letting the drake fall down to the ashen ground.

W-what do you mean? how could you of all things know them? Dante waited in anticipation for the voice to fill his head Forget about it, I've revealed to much already, once you are better suited to hear this news you will hear it "Fine" Dante muttered under his breath, deep down he wasnt truly ready to give up this information.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 09:08 AM

The time in-between time…

Allimar stands looking at Kasha, bug-eyed, as she has one arm in the world he’s standing in and one in Nirn.

“How did you know this was here?” Allimar asks slack jawed.

“I… I was told.” Kasha hesitantly remarks.

Allimar looks at Kasha even more confused. “Uh…?”

“I’ll explain later. Now, we have to hurry.” Kasha says hiding behind the tree as her invisibility spell wears off.

“Why?” Says Allimar doing the same.

“Because, I was also told Dur’el wouldn’t survive his fight with Left Hand. We have to get him and us, out of here.” Kasha begins to peek from behind the tree at the fight. “We have to get his attention somehow.”

“You couldn’t just fight him, too?” Allimar inquires.

Kasha looks at Allimar like he’s the stupidest person in the world, and she might not be wrong if he had to ask that question.

“Al, I swear... sometimes… I just don’t know about you.” Kasha says shaking her head. “That guy is way out of my league. I doubt anything I throw at him, will have any affect. It’s best if we get Dur'el's attention and get out of here as soon as we can.”

Kasha and Allimar continue hiding behind the tree looking at Dur’el and Left Hand fight, as they think of a way to reach Dur’el without getting killed. The cold, grimy, rain continues to fall soaking them all.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 09:34 AM

Loranna, having heard about the appearance of guar meat, smiles to herself; it seemed the food shortage was abated for right now. Praise ...

Loranna sighs quietly, noting that everything's set to go shortly. She looks at her litter for a moment, wondering what's waiting for them all on their way to Suran. Something only Azura could deal with, she wagered; she remembered Azura's words from before, calling her a failed Incarnate, and closes her eyes.

... I'm ... doing my best ... she thinks to herself quietly, keeping her thoughts from Dagoth for right now so as to not depress him. I'm trying to ...

Loranna frowns. What am I trying to do? This isn't the path I really want for myself ... but I made my bed and have to lie in it - right? Besides ... what am I going to do now other than play this out?

Her feet start walking, meandering toward the outskirts of the camp. I was told the way out - it lies in my death, giving birth to Sen Yedda. It lies in getting Azura home, and in ... whatever that last prophecy means.

Sigh; I have failed. Azura should have an Incarnate who at least agrees with her aims and means, not ... a silly tavern girl who keeps looking toward some great and incomprehensible whatever. I'm not doing anyone any favors at all here - but all I can do is ... keep going ...

Such thoughts were depressing; she tried to think on the bright future that she saw a hint of before - a future she'd probably not be part of. Her eyes find the cracks in the earth and follow them for a bit, until she looks up and ...

" ... Oh; Allie, Arynel ..." Loranna says, having come up on the two without even hearing their thoughts ...

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 09:36 AM

Arynel tosses a quick glance up towards Loranna.

"Even now the threads are being woven." The Breton says to no one in paticular.

He returns his attention to the rock and the dust.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 09:42 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 02:26 AM)

Arynel tosses a quick glance up towards Loranna.

"Even now the threads are being woven." The Breton says to no one in paticular.

He returns his attention to the rock and the dust.

Allerleirauh glanced at Arynel, then at the train of people beginning to surround Loranna.

"Yes?"

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 09:47 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 03:26 AM)

Arynel tosses a quick glance up towards Loranna.

"Even now the threads are being woven." The Breton says to no one in paticular.

He returns his attention to the rock and the dust.

"They've been woven since this started, haven't ..." Loranna starts to say.

A clearing throat catches Loranna's attention, and she turns to see a growing number of fanatically loyal, fully-armored, spear-waving Ashlanders, very spiffily-dressed group of Armigers, colorful selection of other well-armed worshippers, AND those nifty dancing girls from the west with the bells on their toes ...

" ... It's all right," she says to the assmebled group, hiding her blush as best she can. "Go back to resting for the imminent trip we have ..."

"Incarnate Mother?" one hesitant soul asks. " ... Are you sure you are well?"

"I am fine," she says, offering her best smile. "Go; prepare yourselves. Everything will be okay; trust to Azura and go in her grace - to finish getting ready."

With a noticable reluctance, the crowd slowly starts to back off, though not everyone is leaving totally.

Turning back to Allie and Arynel, Loranna says in a quiet voice " ... Actually ... just ... was following my feet ..."

She grimaces a little, and ask " ... So, how are you two doing now?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 09:57 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 02:37 AM)

"We were singing, as usual," Allerleirauh said. "They won't let you escape from them, you know."

A new crowd was pressing forward; she rose to act as security, driving them away, and directing the Armigers to help her, so that Loranna would remain undisturbed.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 10:01 AM

The time in-between time…

Dur’el stands a few feet in front of Left Hand, unmoving, with both of his Shehais’ pointed horizontally at him. The rain pours down and creates dry, hissing noises as they instantly, evaporate on Dur’el’s opal, energy swords.

Left Hand grabs a small dagger with his left hand, and scraps it on his sword he’s holding in his right. A soft screeching sound comes from the gathering of metal, on metal, in the rain.

Left Hand and Dur’el then start to circle each other, each looking for a slight opening to attack.

Left Hand sees it.

He charges Dur’el with his right arm raised for a downward strike on Dur’el’s head. Dur’el blocks the strike with both his Shehais’ over his head in an X. Hand then swipes the dagger in his left hand, at Dur’el’s ribs, in a horizontal arc to Dur’el’s right. Dur’el senses the attack and brings his right arm down, in a diagonal chop. Left Hand tries to retract his arm, but isn’t fast enough. Left Hand’s armor explodes in a flash of opal, and crimson, as the Shehai slices through his armor and cuts his wrist deeply.

Before Left Hand can move Dur’el shifts all his weight forward and does a twisting flip over Left Hand’s head. Before he lands, Dur’el, slices Left Hand on his back vertically. The Shehai finds its mark again, and explodes with a crimson flash, and opal sparks, as it carves Left Hand deeply on his back. Opal sparks gently flutter to the ground as Dur’el completes his flip.

Dur’el lands and backs up from Left Hand extinguishing his right Shehai. He then raises his hand and taunts in a “come and get me” kind of way.

Left Hand turns to face Dur’el, and Left Hand’s body language shocks him. Anyone getting cut and taunted, like Dur’el did to him should be infuriated, but Left Hand wasn’t.

Dur’el couldn’t see his face, but he knew Left Hand was smiling.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 10:02 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 3 2005, 03:47 AM)

Loranna looks over at Arynel, noting that Alli and the Armigers have just left her alone with the Breton. She blinks.

... Every time I try talking to him, something happens ... she thinks to herself. ... Sigh; no, I can at least be true to myself enough to ... try, one more time. I just hope this doesn't turn into another cosmic debate with flashing images and stuff ...

" ... I didn't get a chance to say this before and probably won't ever again," she says quietly to Arynel, " ... and - well, thank you for what you did the other day. It gave me some hope."

" ... Not that it changed things all that much though - but still, it was a brave thing; as Allie would say, well played."

Loranna looks to her feet.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 10:19 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 01:52 AM)

Loranna looks over at Arynel, noting that Alli and the Armigers have just left her alone with the Breton. She blinks.

" ... I didn't get a chance to say this before and probably won't ever again," she says quietly to Arynel, " ... and - well, thank you for what you did the other day. It gave me some hope."

" ... Not that it changed things all that much though - but still, it was a brave thing; as Allie would say, well played."

Loranna looks to her feet.

"Hope?" Arynel began. "You must explain this to me sometime soon, 'twas not my intention."

The Breton paused, looking around.

"You say it didn't change much? If that is true, then I have failed, but I do not think this is the case."

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 10:23 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 04:09 AM)

" ... Well ..." Loranna says, " ... Hope that all this will end well after all, despite everything I've done so far to get us all into this."

" ... How would you have failed though if things didn't change much?" she asks. "You sought to point something out; you succeeded in that. People have heard what I couldn't say; now they have the whole picture to see for making their decisions."

Posted by: Celarus Jan 3 2005, 10:24 AM

QUOTE(B @ Jan 2 2005, 10:22 PM)

Artaeum, Summurset
B couldn’t help but smile at his master’s words. He knew he would have to win back Celarus’ faith, but he was glad to be given the chance. “Thank you,” B said as he took the gem from Loremaster Celarus. “I will give this back to Allerleirauh along with the information. I pray I will make you proud of me once more.”

‘Do not think of my pride or yours. I only ask,’ said Master Celarus. ‘That you exhaust all possibilities before seeking the extreme solution. There is a danger in not acting when action is needed, but far, far more often, people act when no action is called for. And, remember, the eyes of Artaeum are on you, my boy.’

Celarus smiled at last, and left the room, ‘Have a good trip to Vvardenfell. And tell that Breton friend of yours to be careful. Though I see that he is even less cautious than you …’

Posted by: Solin Jan 3 2005, 10:29 AM

Ciel’s Journal

It was not as long a journey from the Imperial City to Balmora as from High Rock to Cyrodiil. The Mage’s Guild directed Tris and I first to the town of Riften, in the southerly mountains of Skyrim on the border with Morrowind. It was but an intermediate step along the path so we did not linger long there. Balmora is the seat of the great house Hlaalu. Stone Forest, it means according to a local book seller. Outlanders are not uncommon here, no one should take unusual note of our arrival. Their politics are… interesting, to say the least. My new appearance should fit in fine here. I have not been here long and I have already heard talk of her. Whether that bodes good or ill-The tale doesn’t quite make sense as of yet. A feast for a king and a battle of meats they say. Regardless, she is not far.

Ciel

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 10:35 AM

The time in-between time…

Left Hand and Dur’el engage in a brutal stare down. Left Hand is cut and bleeding but stands like he is uninjured, while Dur’el looks at him in astonishment.

“You think you’re going to win, don’t you?” Left Hand asks laughing. “You’ve only done what I’ve allowed you to do. This is a game to see how you compare to me, and you are clearly outclassed. I haven’t even shown you what I’m capable of.”

“Yeah right, people will say anything when they’re losing.” Dur’el scoffs. “Well, since you’re cut and bleeding in two places, don’t you think it’s time to get serious, Sunshine?”

Left Hand doesn’t respond.

Left Hand wraps himself up in a wave of magicka and moves so fast, that an afterimage of him is left in his place. Dur’el blinks and before he can open his eyes, he feels an elbow in his chest, quickly followed by a hollow snap, and a dull, stinging pain. Dur’el is then rocketed off his feet and thrown back from the blow.

Dur’el slams on the soggy, ground and slides back in the slick, rain. A millisecond later Left Hand lands on him and sticks his dagger in Dur’el’s left hand which extinguishes his Shehai. Then he quickly stands on his right hand with his left foot, and lastly Left Hand slams his steel, toed boot on Dur’el’s chest, pinning him to the ground.

“You’re right it is time to get serious.” Left Hand whispers, the laughter and cockiness out of his voice.

Left Hand raises his sword and aims it at Dur’el’s throat.

Posted by: Girai_Harkaanius Jan 3 2005, 10:42 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 2 2005, 09:19 PM)

Therogar was beginning to feel age in his heart. All that had been done by his student in the last few months now seemed to somehow echo brightly yet hollow. He knew he had been led down a good path that cannot be reached by simple hermitage. The path of the leader is much consumed by following. His prayers went to the One silently, the pain slowly taking him back into unconciousness. All his thought was focused on that Girai was now in a better place.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 10:53 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 02:13 AM)

"Walk the road as it is given," Arynel said, "each step a note and to each a song."

The Breton turned to Loranna.

"If a man opens his eyes, but still cannot see, then he is still blind. If I have shown them more of the picture, but they do not understand what is, or act in accordance, then I have done nothing. Again I say, I do not believe this is the case."

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 10:57 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 04:43 AM)

" ... Arynel, you can't make people see things the way you see them," Loranna says, brushing hair out of her face. "People are going to see what they want to see, what they're ready to see."

Sighing, she adds " ... And sometimes even if they see something and want to act on it, they may not feel free to. They may have made a choice before they could see that still binds them."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 10:58 AM

Ghostgate

Rooms for the pilgrims had been set up in the towers of Dusk and Dawn, and Lord Dres Gaor took one of them to be his temporary office and bedroom. It had been taken hours of planning and considerable expense to set up the ruse in Seyda Neen, and he had been meeting with his spies in camp about the spy. So far there hadn’t even been the coldest clue about what had happened to the money in the temple.

Finally, he had slept, but only an hour later, he was awoken.

‘Serjo,’ said his man Wyrloc. ‘They have been sighted! The supplies are here!’

‘Already? All of them? Eight wagonloads have made it through in but a few days, from the mainland to this desolate place?’

‘Not eight, serjo,’ said Wyrloc. ‘Twelve! Lord Dres Carvelys’s supplies have arrived also, and joined with yours.’

‘Find Erenius and Liris and Aricyn,’ said Lord Dres Gaor, rising from his bed. ‘And tell them that the food crisis has been averted.’

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 11:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 02:47 AM)

Arynel stood up and quickly turned to face Loranna.

"There's were not the only eyes I sought to open." The Breton said. "Hear your own words, Nord-Demon, there is much truth in them. Who is it that has power here? Who is it that can play a hand in this? Truly it is all of us, each one has a note to play. No, there are those who have a stronger hand in this, and whether you wish it or not, you are one of those. It is your eyes that must be opened."

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 11:10 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 04:48 AM)

‘Find Erenius and Liris and Aricyn,’ said Lord Dres Gaor, rising from his bed. ‘And tell them that the food crisis has been averted.’

Aricyn was pleased to hear that the VERY unexpected problem with the food had been solved.

He followed the messanger back to Gaor, though, to explain the change of travel plans to him personally.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 11:14 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 04:58 AM)

Loranna blinks, then sighs.

"What power," she asks quietly, "do I truly have, Arynel? This past day, enboldened by your courage, I've tried once again to speak my own thoughts, do what I would think to do in this situation, but ..."

Her jaw tightens. "That's not Azura, and in doing that I'm failing the part I took upon myself - and even now, people are wondering why Azura is quite so merciful now, or why she keeps allowing obvious enemies to speak arrogantly to her without rebuking them, or any of a dozen other such thoughts. I'm not really what they want ..."

" ... and if I just let her take full control, then ... I'm failing myself, failing the example you and Allie have set, failing any chance to try to bring less chaos out of this mess than has come before ... not that anything has succeeded at that yet, but I keep ... hoping ..."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:17 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 05:00 AM)

Aricyn was pleased to hear that the VERY unexpected problem with the food had been solved.

He followed the messanger back to Gaor, though, to explain the change of travel plans to him personally.

'Ah, Aricyn!' said Lord Dres Gaor, greeting him in his chambers. 'I take it you heard the excellent news! Do my men know how to drive a caravan through treacherous terrain, or what?'

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 11:20 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 05:07 AM)

'Ah, Aricyn!' said Lord Dres Gaor, greeting him in his chambers. 'I take it you heard the excellent news! Do my men know how to drive a caravan through treacherous terrain, or what?'

"Indeed they do, Sir, indeed they do. Azura is no doubt pleased by your ability to avert disaster, as are the people who might actually have gone hungry," he said with a slight grin.

"I wanted to let you know that there has been a change of travel plans. The Buoyant Armigers will be escorting the party towards Suran, where we will travel by water to Vivec. This was the will of Azura herself."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:22 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 05:10 AM)

‘Damn and blast her to Oblivion!’ Gaor snarled. ‘I have spent nearly my entire fortune and every contact that it has taken my family generations to build to set up a distraction in Seyda Neen and she changes her mind?’

The Dres noble stopped suddenly and stared at the floor. ‘This is a test, I can see. I suppose I can cancel all my previous plans, and instead have the supplies shipped directly to Suran … And, in truth, it won’t cost me more. I might even save a penny or two. But, if the Goddess or anyone here thinks my abilities and treasury are limitless, and that my time is best spent on plans that change on a whim or a change of counselors, please let them know they are much mistaken …’

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 11:23 AM

The time in-between time…

Kasha watches Dur’el from behind the tree and she sees Left Hand about to deliver his final strike to Dur’el.

Dur’el doesn’t have anytime left. We have to do something now. Kasha thinks.

Kasha quickly hops out from behind the tree and cups her mouth. “DUR’EL, REMEMBER THE LAST WORDS!” Kasha shouts.

Left Hand turns his head towards Kasha, but keeps his feet on Dur’el, as Dur’el looks toward the voice also.

So it wasn’t a delusion I saw earlier. It was Kasha! But what is she doing here, and what does she mean last words? There’s only one “last words” I know of.

It only takes a second for Dur’el to dig up the memory…

It was when he was watching his older self die. Before he died he said… Remember this young one… You don’t have to beat him, just make sure you win…

But what does that have to do with anything? Dur’el thinks before he sees Allimar and Kasha quickly jump behind the invisible curtain and disappear.

That’s it, I was never supposed to beat him he’s too powerful. I have to escape, but how, he has me pinned?

Dur’el begins to think.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 11:26 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 03:04 AM)

"You bear no weights but those you choose to carry, you wear no shackles but those you place on yourself." Arynel says. "A mouse is not a hawk, and neither is a bar maid a goddess."

The Breton looks Loranna firmly in the eye, and places his hands on her shoulders.

"This is not how things should be, you are not Azura and you will never be Azura, and while she lives in you Azura cannot be Azura fully. If you try to please yourself you will fail Azura, if you try to please Azura then you will fail yourself, is not the answer then, to let her go? You are not Azura, you put this wieght upon yourself, and bind yourself in shackles of your own decisions. Now throw them down."

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 11:30 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 05:16 AM)

" ... And who's going to take them up?" Loranna asks, her eyes mositening. "As bad as I've made things till now ... why force someone else to go through this as well, and destroy another life?"

"I'm trapped, but ... I ... don't want someone else to have to go through this," she says, feeling herself starting to shake. "My own life's messed up; better to just stay with the devil we've come to know, until Azura's strong enough to free herself from Nirn and Sen Yedda tears herself from my womb ..."

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 11:34 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 05:12 AM)

Aricyn smiled. "Your words reveal a lack of faith, Sir.

"Don't worry. I don't have the faith to be an inquisitor, myself.

"In this particular case, though, it is entirely true that the words were Azura's, and quite against Loranna's will OR the words of her councillors."

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 11:36 AM

The time in-between time…

As Dur’el curses his predicament the Gods shine a ray of hope to him.

Seeing the other two escape, Left Hand forgets everything and pivots his body to his right, turning his back to Dur’el, but keeping his right foot on Dur’el’s chest. But his pivot also freed Dur’el’s right hand in the process.

“That’s it, the way out!” Left Hand roars in triumph.

Dur’el thinks fast, and quickly reaches over with his right hand and pulls out the dagger stabbed, deep in his left hand. He then stabs it in Left Hand’s left foot. The dagger surprisingly cuts the armored boot with ease, pinning Hand’s foot to the ground.

Dur’el quickly rolls out from under Left Hand, makes a slight motion with his hands and casts one of the few spells he knows. Dur’el’s heartbeat quickens and he feels his leg muscles pulse with untold speed.

Dur’el is already in a mad dash for the tree, as Hand pulls the dagger out of his foot.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:40 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 05:24 AM)

‘Please forgive my outburst, Aricyn. And if you feel you must mention my lack of faith to the Goddess, I can only plea that I have not had much sleep lately. My men and I had been working hard on what we thought was Her will. That is my only excuse,’ the Dres noble smiles tiredly. ‘But you are right. I do not have the faith that I show, or the faith that I should. But I am trying.’

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 11:50 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 05:30 AM)

"I tell the Goddess very little, Gaor. She has enough to think about."

Aricyn smiles again, rather warmly.

"And you have shown yourself extremely useful and capable, which is sometimes infinitely preferable to being devout."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:56 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 05:40 AM)

'It is taking me some time to learn the nature of the Goddess's champions,' said Lord Dres Gaor. 'I had thought, perhaps, that you were the one who had the faith. It is a strange thing, that She prefers the company of people who do not believe in Her to the thousands who do. But I appreciate your kind words, and I promise not to disappoint now, or in the future. Now, I should talk to my men. They will be disappointed too that their work has been wasted, but I will explain to them it is the Goddess's will.'

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 11:58 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 3 2005, 03:20 AM)

Arynel's hands fell from Loranna's shoulders.

"You limit yourself needlessly." The Breton said. "You assume it is a burden a mortal must carry, if not you, then another. Perhaps tis so, but perhaps tis not, I do no know. In any case, it is not a burden mortals are meant to carry, I do not know if I can help you, but I will if it is at all possible."

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 12:03 PM

The time in-between time…

Dur’el has a Hell of a head start, and is running at an amazing speed, but there is no word for how fast Left Hand is. Left Hand wraps himself up in magicka and shoots off like a bolt of lightning. The area he was last standing kicks up a blast of rain, mud, and magicka, when he zips away.

Almost there. Dur’el thinks, going so fast that his cheeks are stretched back. The rain hitting his face at this speed, feel like punches.

Dur’el cautiously throws a glance over his shoulder, and sees Left Hand speeding towards him.

Damn that bastard is fast! Come on, Dur’el go faster!

Dur’el kicks in an adrenaline rush and his speed increases twenty fold.

20 YARDS

ALMOST THERE!

9 YARDS

2 YARDS

C’MON!

1 FOOT

LEFT HAND IS ON HIS SHOULDER

They both meet at the portal at the same time, and the time-twisting world explodes in a flash of brilliant white…

Then darkness.

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:04 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 05:46 AM)

"Please do.

"And make no mistake, I DO believe that she is Azura and carries the child of Vivec, but religion is business and politics, as well as faith. A Dunmer knows that, surely."

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 12:05 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 05:48 AM)

" ... " For once, Loranna felt herself not feeling confused by Arynel ...

" ... You've suffered while walking your path; I've seen this even though I've never truly acknowledged it," she says to him, a soft smile coming to her face. "For all that suffering though, and for all the things you're still grasping with, you really are a shining light."

"... Good luck to you dear; I'll ... I'll be hoping your contribution to the threads being woven is a bright, shining one."

Loranna gets an almost shy look and then says " ... I ... better get back to my litter now. We're moving soon."

She smiles once more, then turns and walks back toward the crowd ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 12:12 PM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 05:54 AM)

"Please do.

"And make no mistake, I DO believe that she is Azura and carries the child of Vivec, but religion is business and politics, as well as faith. A Dunmer knows that, surely."

'Oh yes,' the Dres nobleman nodded. 'You are very right, sir. I think if you checked, most of the worshippers here came out of desperation, willing to accept anything, any God is better than the one they have been given. Any government is preferable to the one we have. Any Temple but the one we have. And then fellowship is formed, and this is as good as any. I don't, in truth, know how long lasting this faith in Azura will be. She has not told us what to do, or what to believe, only that if we follow, things will be better. Perhaps the simplicity of that message is what is most effective. But it is short-term. If she does not tell people what to do when she is not there, I am afraid it will always be a cult, not a true religion.'

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 12:17 PM

Morrowind, Ghost Gate

A few feet above the large crowd of Loranna’s worshippers, a chubby Bosmer, with a large backpack appears from nowhere, and falls onto them. Loud moans can be heard coming from the crushed followers.

A second later a skinny, Dunmer women falls from the sky and lands on top of the Bosmer, bouncing off of his chunky chest and landing on one knee...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 12:20 PM

QUOTE(Arrogant_Hero @ Jan 3 2005, 05:07 AM)

Allerleirauh, who was still working on crowd control, spun at the sight of the falling people. Did she know them? They seemed familiar.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 3 2005, 12:21 PM

QUOTE(Arrogant_Hero @ Jan 3 2005, 06:07 AM)

Loranna is pushed back and cordoned off just as she gets a chance to say "What is this ..."

She tries to get some view of who just dropped in, though her followers are very good at protecting her.

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:22 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 06:02 AM)

Aricyn places his huge white hand on the man's shoulder.

"Everything WILL be better, I assure you. Azura may or may not be the eternal god for your people, but she will be the answer to your prayers on other matters. In that I have no doubt."

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 12:27 PM

Kasha looks around and smiles.

“Good, we’re not dead.” She pauses. “But where are we?”

Allimar finally gets up, and sighs of relief are heard for the crushed people.

“Oh, come on!” Allimar yells to the worshippers. “I’m not that fat!”

“Looks like we’re at Ghost Gate.” Kasha says looking around.

Posted by: w0nders Jan 3 2005, 12:28 PM

Dante needed time to think, so he made his way down the foyada, after making it a fairly far away from the worshippers he looked even further down the foyada, where he saw a guar, covered with packs and bearing a saddle.

What on Nirn....? He thought, watching in awe as it stopped infront of him, it spoke "Hey boss, I've called myself back into your services yet again" It said, nodding gleefully, "Salty..?" asked Dante not taking his gaze off the guar "rrr...don't call me that" He snarled, waving his tounge around.

"Oh lord, I see where this going" Stated Dante, rolling his eye, "C'mon boss, check the packs, theyre filled with all kinds of useful stuff" Dante made his way around the guar and checked all the packs before returning to the front of him "Salty...theyre just filled with Corkbulb" Dante exclaimed, staring corky in the eyes, "Corky...boss, call me Corky" He snarled yet again, Dante slapped his forehead.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 12:28 PM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 3 2005, 06:12 AM)

'I have devoted more than my life to that belief,' said Lord Dres Gaor, very seriously. 'My land and fortune has been in my family for generations, long before there was a Morrowind or an Empire or a Tribunal, and I am meant to pass it to my heirs. It is a serious thing to devote it instead to a pregnant Nordic tavern maid with ashen skin who claims to be the incarnate of Azura. My faith may shake, but I do believe just what you say. This is an investment in a brighter future for my land and my people -- and me.

Now, I really should talk to my men. Thank you, Aricyn. I am glad that the news of this change came from you.'

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:29 PM

QUOTE(w0nders @ Jan 3 2005, 06:18 AM)

"Oh lord, I see where this going" Stated Dante, rolling his eye, "C'mon boss, check the packs, theyre filled with all kinds of useful stuff" Dante made his way around the guar and checked all the packs before returning to the front of him "Salty...theyre just filled with Corkbulb" Dante exclaimed, staring corky in the eyes, "Corky...boss, call me Corky" He snarled yet again, Dante slapped his forehead.

Not far away, Aricyn's old wolf growled fiercely in its sleep...

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:32 PM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 06:18 AM)

Now, I really should talk to my men. Thank you, Aricyn. I am glad that the news of this change came from you.'

Aricyn smiled, and left the loyal man to his duties. He still wasn't entirely sure what Dres Gaor was loyal TO, but so far it suited Aricyn just fine.

"Wake up, you're dreaming," he said as he passed the sleeping, snarling wolf.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 3 2005, 12:44 PM

Arynel made his way through the crowd, at last reaching Allerleirauh.

"I have spoken with Loranna." The Breton said, placing a hand on her shoulder. "I believe she has found both understanding and repentence, though how much I know not. She wishes to be free of the burden she carries, and I also, for it will be a great virtue for all of us. I am afraid, though, the this is beyond my knowledge, I am blind to what paths to take, what threads to weave. What have you to say to this? Have you any thoughts?"

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 12:45 PM

Morrowind, Ghost Gate

The people finally start to get up when a third figure falls from the sky and knocks them down again. Kasha slowly walks to the figure and bends down, while Al steps back.

“Watch out, Kasha, it might be…” Allimar says afraid to finish.

“D-Dur’el is that you?” Kasha says touching the figure on the shoulder.

A hand shoots up and grabs Kasha on the wrist and yanks her down. Kasha is greeted with a familiar face.

“Who else?” The figure says flashing a famous smile.

“Dur’el!” Kasha exclaims.

Kasha and Dur’el embrace.

One of the crushed worshippers mumbles. "Could you get off of us?"

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:49 PM

QUOTE(Arrogant_Hero @ Jan 3 2005, 06:35 AM)

[
Kasha and Dur’el embrace.

One of the crushed worshippers mumbles. "Could you get off of us?"

(OOC:)

Yay!

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 3 2005, 12:49 PM

(IC:)

"What the..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 3 2005, 12:52 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jan 3 2005, 05:34 AM)

QUOTE(Arrogant_Hero @ Jan 3 2005, 05:35 AM)

"What?" Allerleirauh said, distracted from Arynel's words by the scene in front of her. She turned quickly to stare into the Breton's face. "Have I lost my mind, or are you expressing sympathy for Loranna?"

His words would come back to her later. Now, though, she pushed through the crowd, to the bruised worshippers and the embracing couple, healing magic at the ready.

Posted by: Arrogant_Hero Jan 3 2005, 02:00 PM

Allimar runs up to Kasha and Dur’el grinning as big as an ogrim. “Nice to see you made it. Did you like the trip?”

“Yeah, but the food was awful.” Dur’el says smiling.

Allimar then drops to one knee, and joins in on the hug. Dur’el grimaces and pushes Allimar off of him.

“What have I told you about that?” Dur’el states, pointing at the Bosmer.

Allimar and Kasha help Dur’el up.

“What happened in there?” Kasha says quickly. “What happened to your hand?”

“Why did the fight happen early?” Allimar blurts out.

“What...?” Kasha starts.

“Easy kiddies, those questions are for another day. Right now I could use a good healer, and an inn.”

They all begin to walk off as the worshippers look on.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 10:41 PM

Ghostgate

As Lord Dres Gaor had predicted, his men were bitterly disappointed that their plans for the distraction were scrapped. As one of them pointed out, they had been asked to do the impossible, rose to the challenge, and then held back. Gaor explained to them that it was Azura’s will, and it was heretical to question it, and they fell silent.

‘The actors we hired to play the plague victims are gathering in Seyda Neen,” said Wyrlock. “Who should go there and tell them that there will be no performance?”

Lord Dres Gaor started to answer, and then stopped, a smile crossing his lips: “Perhaps there will still be a performance. Merely a change of venue. Tell me, is the playwright Baloth-Kul still looking for a patron for his next work?”

“I believe so … Why?”

“I have a farce in mind for him,” said the Dres nobleman. “If he can write it quickly.”

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 10:56 PM

*Erenius stood in the middle of his camp, watching the controlled chaos unfold around him as people went about their business*

"Must've missed quite a bit whlie asleep," he mutters. "But things seem to have rectified themselves rather nicely in some areas..."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:09 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 3 2005, 04:46 PM)

Lord Dres Gaor clapped Lord Erenius on the back, and pointed towards the caravan of a dozen wagons laden with foodstuffs as they rolled into camp.

"A beautiful sight, wouldn't you say?"

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 11:14 PM

*Erenius looks at Lord Gaor and then at the food, not quite believing it*

"Yes it is, and I thank you," Erenius says. "I doubt there is a way any of us here could truley repay you for your generosity in sending the foods, or your kindness in sending them posthaste once the supplies somehow went bad."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:20 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 3 2005, 05:04 PM)

There is something like a blush in the Dres nobleman's dark skin. "Thank you. But most of the worshippers here have sacrificed their livelihoods to be here. Some of us were just lucky enough to have more to give ... I have had less luck so far finding the temple thief ..."

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 11:31 PM

*Erenius thinks for a moment*

"Well...keep looking. I assume you're looking through the slaves...and those inclined to thieving like the Khajiit and Bosmer, right? I doubt any of the Dunmer here, or the others took it. So it was one of those two races doing it either as a way to worry the crowd, or someone just trying their luck..."

"Best of luck with that,"

"If there is any more you find, keep those key aware..." Erenius says. "However, there are some here I don't quite trust, but I'll wait on them and see how it turns out when and if we catch this thief."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:39 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 3 2005, 05:21 PM)

"Yes, the slaves are being interrogated," said Lord Dres Gaor. "But I have other suspicions. There are elements in this camp who are boldly disrespectful of Azura and her followers. It may not be simple greed, but a purposeful attempt to stop this pilgrimage. Perhaps by agents of the King ..."

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 11:43 PM

"I still have my thoughts...and it doesnt seem to be the work of the king or one of his agents..." Erenius mutters, knowing the Dres may have a point, however unlikely it is. "I think some talks with some of the people surrounding Loranna between events at Balmora and now would be a good choice...things don't add up, and those closer than I may be better at helping."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 3 2005, 11:47 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Jan 3 2005, 05:33 PM)

"Just keep me informed about any information you come across, and I will do the same for you," said Lord Dres Gaor, and then smiled. "In the meantime, let us get these people fed!"

Posted by: FireMaster Jan 3 2005, 11:50 PM

"That would be a good idea," Erenius replies, a smile also on his face. "I have no idea how the last meal went over seeing as how it likely brought back nightmares of Balmora...but lets deal with the current one."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jan 4 2005, 12:36 AM

Allerleirauh had slept, for the first time since arriving. Sleeping in the Tower of Dusk brought back odd memories.

Restorative potions were all very well, if you didn't mind not dreaming. Sometimes it was good to dream. And her dreams had a lot to say to her.

Birth and Death are one of the eight lies... so is Love... love is a shadow of something greater that has no name yet...

...all but you, Loranna. You are walking Azura's path. That is what it means to be possessed.

.... I know.

With so many dreams, it could not be said that her sleep was restful. She woke feeling as if she'd been in a bear-wrestling contest. Her eyes reflected in the water of the washbasin had dark circles under them. But she felt more energized than she had, perhaps, since the beginning of this whole business. Since the Hearthfire Ball.

She sought out Arynel. "We need to talk," she said, simply. "About what you said to me last night. And we cannot do it here, so near Loranna. Meet me in the true Solunastra. I will tell Doll to send Solin to join us."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 12:41 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Jan 3 2005, 04:26 PM)

She sought out Arynel. "We need to talk," she said, simply. "About what you said to me last night. And we cannot do it here, so near Loranna. Meet me in the true Solunastra. I will tell Doll to send Solin to join us."

"Yes, you are right in this." Arynel said. "Do what you must, I will meet you there."

The Breton whispered a string of power

He stepped beyond the ash..

And wandered past the known homilies...

He found himself in a garden surrounding a tree with silvery bark, and golden leaves. Under this did he sit, and wait.

"This path has run it's course, the end is on the horizon."

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 02:40 AM

Hlaalu Canton, Vivec

QUOTE

"It is not a hard trick, but it is not a trick I wish to learn. Fear and hatred are all these uncivilized Dunmer understand. Even the Tribunal knew this, which is why they created the Ordinators.

"You'd be surprized how often the witch children ploy works." Smilied Helseth. "Perhaps sending her to rule over your Kingdom would be a better punishment. Or maybe I'll let the child take my place. After a few days, she'll be begging me to re take the throne." The obvious jest in Helseth's voice for the last bit was unexpected. Perhaps it was related to the unexpected guest.

“It’d be a neat trick, if you could do it,” smiles Elysana. “Your new spy in my court is capable enough to fool me, but taking the throne of Wayrest isn’t so easy, as you yourself learned many years ago … Who is your friend here?”

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 02:46 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 4 2005, 11:00 AM)

Hlaalu Canton, Vivec
“It’d be a neat trick, if you could do it,” smiles Elysana. “Your new spy in my court is capable enough to fool me, but taking the throne of Wayrest isn’t so easy, as you yourself learned many years ago … Who is your friend here?”

"This is no friend of mine. One of Tholer's messengers, it would appear. What is the meaning of this intrusion? Don't you know it's dangerous to evesdrop at strange doorways?" Said Helseth to the messenger.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 02:51 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 08:36 PM)

The young man, obviously terrified, ungracefully kowtowed before the king. "I'm sorry, your highness, I was just...doing my job. I didn't do anything wrong...I was just doing my job." His eyes became misty and he began to sob. "I never thought you'd be here, everybody seems to..."

A distant pounding frightened him all the more.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 02:56 AM

Hlaalu Canton, Vivec

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 3 2005, 08:41 PM)

"When it comes to executing foreign queens, I understand that you like to do it in secret," smiled Elysana, looking at the King of Morrowind. "Do you like murdering priests in public? How stands the population on king versus temple?"

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 03:29 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 4 2005, 11:16 AM)

Hlaalu Canton, Vivec
"When it comes to executing foreign queens, I understand that you like to do it in secret," smiled Elysana, looking at the King of Morrowind. "Do you like murdering priests in public? How stands the population on king versus temple?"

Helseth hears the knocking on the door. *Sigh* "Yet another distraction. Perhaps next time we should just do this out in the open. It wouldn't seem to make any difference." Helseth signals to one of the Royal Guards who stepped forward and opened the outside door.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 03:37 AM

Hlaalu Cantons, Vivec

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 09:19 PM)

Elysana, Queen of Wayrest, did not say a word. Her eyes flicked from the King to the messenger, and she wondered where this was going. Will the Temple's interference help or hurt her?

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 03:43 AM

Serethi, looked questioningly at the face before him. "I am Serethi Indoril, officer of the Watch. I have reason to believe a messenger was kidnapped here. By edict 344-12, I am given rights to search." Cautiously, he and his Ordinators entered the drab apartment. They quickly searched the outer premises, and found nothing. The guard seemed to shadow them, but never displayed a sign of violence.

Serethi located the courier, but he was dumbfounded by his other findings. Arrayed across a large room were eight guards, all in shining armor, a richly dressed Breton, probably royalty, the courier, and King Hlaalu Helseth the lord of Morrowind and all it entailed. "By Almsivi, and all its wild mystery!" he muttered.

"Honorable King, you are guilty of kidnapping. You shall await...await trial, as is in accordance with High Vivec law."

While his Ordinators watched those armed guards, and the king, Serethi kneeled down beside the abducted courier, and whispeared a few words in his ear. He immediately dashed out of the apartment.

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 03:58 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 4 2005, 12:03 PM)

"My good sir." replied Helseth. "I am the King of Morrowind, so your petty laws do not apply to me. But it would be a shame to not meet with Tholer, since he's gone to all this trouble. If you would be so kind as to lead the way, I'll be happy to speak with him."

With that, the Guardsmen formed up around Helseth, with Karrod next to Helseth. The two Her Hand Ordinators made sure Elysana was secured for the trip.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 04:01 AM

Hlaalu Canton, Vivec

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 09:48 PM)

"My good sir." replied Helseth. "I am the King of Morrowind so your petty laws do not apply to me. But it would be a shame to not meet with Tholer, since he's gone to all this trouble. If you would be so kind as to lead the way, I'll be happy to speak with him."

With that, the Guardsmen formed up around Helseth, with Karrod next to Helseth. The two Her Hand Ordinators made sure Elysana was secured for the trip.

Elysana let herself be helped up, and she tried to look at Helseth.

"It would seem your authority is in question, stepbrother," she said, now trying not to smile.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 04:15 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 09:48 PM)

"You may not leave just yet, Helseth King. Do not be sure that you are above the laws of the Dunmer, the answers we yet will see." Serethi stated. The months of built-up hatred began to swell in his neck. 'It would be so easy to simply charge and have done with it,' he thought. His hand tightened on the scimitar, as the two groups stared at each other from across the room.

Suddenly, a messenger burst into the apartment, a different one this time. He shoved a note into Serethi's hands, which the officer read:

I will see Helseth and his current captive. His guards may come to the Temple as well, provided only two enter. Do not worry Serethi, you have done your house well, and Helseth will see justice.

The Lord Archcanon

"It seems you have found a measure of luck," The Indoril said, as he folded the letter, "I am to take you to audience with the Archcanon. We shall leave immediately."

As many as twenty-five Ordinators were now waiting at the apartment's door, to escort the king and his retainers. As they marched through the city, many of the citizens speculated that Helseth had been caught, and would now be punished for his 'tyrannical' rule. The procession was an eccentric one, for sure.

When they reached the Temple Canton, Serethi informed the King, "And now you will enter with you only two guards and the Breton, or you will not enter at all."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 04:17 AM

Arynel sat silently under the tree in the garden's center, the true Solunastra. The Breton waited for his companions to join him, and to bide his time he produced a parchment and a quill and set to work as a scholar and a historian and an artist.

I am a challenge born of mystery and raised by slanderers and those who blaspheme stars. But learning is born within the womb of falsity, and so is the beginning of understanding, nonsensical.

With the challenge is offered the promise of victory.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 04:24 AM

Vivec

Elysana, the Queen of Wayrest, had surely be in more absurd situations. Surely. But she could not remember one.

Unlike her earlier walk through the city in chains, where no one paid much attention to her, now she felt the eyes of all on her and Helseth. What, she wondered, was her position as the captive of a captive? If only she could see the King’s face, she could know what he thought of this. Was he amused, furious … frightened?

As much as it pleased the Queen to see her much-despised stepbrother captured as she had been, she was apprehensive. The situation was too unpredictable for her tastes. At least before, in the cell, she knew it was either escape or execution. Now, she felt she must stand back and watch to see how her fate turned. That was not something that came naturally to her personality.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 04:33 AM

Arynel sat under the tree, the Breton continued to write.

As the babe shatters the birthing hearth and leaves behind a rift of dancing flames I left the false house, not because it bore no truth, but because it bore no mystery, which is the antecedent of wisdom.

I left, cast out, undesired.

I was saved through compassion, I was born through exile.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:02 AM

As usual, Dagoth is listening to the thoughts of the crowd, watching out for anything useful..... and that is not much. until he hears something disturbing...... 'Nothing interesting hear..... wait what is this?' {I must kill the creature, kill it, kill it soon. It should not be here..... must kill it now.....} 'This can not be good....'

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 05:04 AM

Arynel lost himself in his work, the Breton continued to write.

I made of myself a traveler, which is the only true path known to the blind. But recognition is revelation, and understanding the precinct of triumph.

Shatter the still mystery with a constant motion.

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 05:07 AM

Zaldaar is listening to thought at the same time and heres it. "Strange..." he mutters.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 05:09 AM

Arynel's work ceased to be a labor, and the Breton made of his art a house of splendor.

In the midst of my wandering I came upon a congregation of twirlers, where I choose to rest my feet for a time. It was there where I first met the banish-born axis of earth and hell, though my eyes were not yet opened to the terrors birthed in this.

The path of triumph is coiled within the spool of defeat.

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:10 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jan 3 2005, 10:52 PM)

Reichi noticed that the lich, who Reichi saw as a Dunmer due to the Lich's illsion, looked troubled. Reichi tapped the man on his shoulder, ignoring how unrealistically boney it felt. "You okay mistah?" he asked.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:11 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jan 3 2005, 10:00 PM)

"Wha, yah, I'm fine." 'Werewolf.'

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 05:13 AM

Zaldaar contacted Dagoth Lich. 'What do you think that was?'

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:14 AM

Reichi looked as if he had been smacked with a Daedric Tuna fish. "Wha..how'd...you..er...her...uh..." he said. Before regaining his compusure. His voice dropped to a whisper. "I don't know how you know..but do not say that crowds! Yer gonna git me killed!"

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:23 AM

'I am talking to you in with my mind. Only those who can read minds can hear me. So don't worry about being discovered.'

Dagoth is almost amused with Reichi's worrying.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:24 AM

QUOTE(stratigo @ Jan 3 2005, 10:03 PM)

Zaldaar contacted Dagoth Lich. 'What do you think that was?'

'I don't know, but it was coming from someone in the crowd. It kept thinking, Kill the creature. But what is the creature?'

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 05:25 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 4 2005, 12:35 PM)

When they reached the Temple Canton, Serethi informed the King, "And now you will enter with you only two guards and the Breton, or you will not enter at all."

Helseth's face didn't betray what he was thinking. He had been to much more dangerous negotiations than what this would be. But with the current state of affairs, it could be worse.

"Very well." Helseth signalled for one Her Hand Ordinator to bring Elysana and Karrod to accompany him, before walking into the room.

"Ah, Tholer Saryoni, it is very good to see you again."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 05:26 AM

Arynel sat within the house of his labor, the Breton moved on the bed of his creation.

After a brief recession I found myself drawn to a congregation of scholars and scoffers. Here again was the demon-in-man, yet I knew not the meaning of this, though I was able to perceive glimpses of higher truths, the birth of understanding.

But the congregation of scholars and scoffers was brought to close by rose bound warriors, and the image of a Nord taught me a secret of battle:

When the enemy comes in all directions, turn away from the untrue side.

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:26 AM

Reichi mumbled a curse in a way thast almost resembled a growl. Not knowing how the mental comummincation worked he said "So..how'd ya know eh?"

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:27 AM

'Were you there when Loranna traveled through Skyrim? If so, you have met me before.....'

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 05:27 AM

'I don't know. There are many things in the party that would classify as creature. The one next to you is a prime example. I fear it might mean one of them.'

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:30 AM

Reichi began to recognize the man. "Oh...right..i don't particularly rember transforming in front of you or saying what i was..." he said.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 05:31 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 11:15 PM)

"Ah, Tholer Saryoni, it is very good to see you again."

The Archcanon was sitting on a raised dais, scrolls in hand. He put them down, and looked at the two visitors.

"So comes the self-styled King of Morrowind. I might ask what your business is here. This moment is certainly a precarious one for you."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:35 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jan 3 2005, 10:20 PM)

Reichi began to recognize the man. "Oh...right..i don't particularly rember transforming in front of you or saying what i was..." he said.

'Your thoughts are an open book. To me at least...... so try to hide them a bit better. I am not the only one here that can read minds.....'

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 05:35 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 3 2005, 11:21 PM)

The Queen bowed, keeping her eyes on the archcanon and the king. 'Elysana, daughter of Eadwyre, Queen of Wayrest.'

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 05:36 AM

And again, Dagoth hears the thoughts of killing from somewhere in the crowd. {Kill the creature, destroy it..... so close, almost there..... too many people........ must wait}

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:37 AM

Reichi accidently managed to make mental contact. In the form of a low rumbling growl. "...Easier said then done." he stated flatly. "And its polite to stay out of peoples heads....might find some stuff you wish you hadn't."

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 05:40 AM

Reichi hears laughing in his head. 'leave it be, my friend. It's never good to attagonize that one.'

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 05:42 AM

The preperations had been made, the supplies secured, the guards set and the Armigers in position to lead.

Loranna, looking down from her litter, gives the word:

"We go to Suran, now."

She gives a small gesture, and the procession starts off, leaving Ghostgate behind ...

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 05:42 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Jan 3 2005, 11:25 PM)

The Queen bowed, keeping her eyes on the archcanon and the king. 'Elysana, daughter of Eadwyre, Queen of Wayrest.'

Indeed? You must pardon me, noble queen. Welcome to Vivec. May I ask, is Mynsiera still alive?

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 05:43 AM

Beneath the tree, Arynel's creation became an exhilation, the Breton's pangs became a blissful thought lapse.

Then I found myself on the road through the land of the northern men, and at the start was given an armor of woven grass, laced with silver hair. And so I walked a frozen trail, tear laced, and marked with death. It was here I first realized the terror of the Nord as a house for a devil.

Immortality forbids man, mortality forbids divinity.

Posted by: Sheogorath Jan 4 2005, 05:44 AM

Temple Canton, Vivec

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 3 2005, 11:32 PM)

Indeed? You must pardon me, noble queen. Welcome to Vivec. May I ask, is Mynsiera still alive?

"The second Dowager Queen of Daggerfall?" Elysana asked. "No, she went to her ancestors some years ago. But the first Dowager Queen, the grandmother of King Gothryd, Nulfaga, she still lives."

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 05:44 AM

Zaldaar stands and starts towards. He was still disturbed by the one person's, if it was a person, thoughts. To be careful Zaldaar moves closer to Loranna.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 05:45 AM

Shardie had it, the sword of the Moon Riever... She had paid a local to go in and get it, since the temple's security around the Puzzle Canal was tight.... Handing over the five hundred gold, she wondered where to go next... yes, there would be a good place... she headed for the stilt strider, and paid the fare...

Maranda had made it to Suran, and she had heard that the person whe was waiting for was on her way...

Posted by: Aki Jan 4 2005, 05:45 AM

QUOTE(stratigo @ Jan 3 2005, 11:30 PM)

Reichi hears laughing in his head. 'leave it be, my friend. It's never good to attagonize that one.'

Reichi mumbles more colorful curses. "I gotta be going insane now.." he muttered, then began moving with the processtion. Dar'Var meanwhile, was in the tower and noticed everyone was leaving and began following too.

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 05:45 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 4 2005, 01:51 PM)

"I do not have to explain my business in the country I rule, to the likes of you. You seem to have forgotten your place, my good man. However, you will find that my purpose is not much different to yours. I am waiting for Loranna to arrive here in Vivec. However, I do not wish to greet her with open arms as you do.

"Do you forget the Tribunal that you were appointed to serve? Did they not regect the Deadra for a valid reason?"

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 05:48 AM

A pity. I had known her in Cyrodiil, when I went with Vivec there. She was young then, and in the flower of beauty, as far as humans go. I think often of those times, I must say no royalty from Wayrest has come for some time.

Posted by: Nalion Jan 4 2005, 05:50 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 4 2005, 04:32 AM)

"We go to Suran, now."

The preparations for departure had been obvious and Nalion had been ready, too. The few belongings he had were quickly packed and wrapped up.

Upon hearing that the trip was going to Suran, not to Vivec as he had expected, the Breton mages lifts an eyebrow.
"A sudden twist in plans?" he mutters. "The last three shrines of the pilgrimage are in Vivec. What could there be in Suran that is worth the time?"
Nalion scratched his chin, then followed the procession slowly...

Posted by: niceguy5 Jan 4 2005, 05:52 AM

As the parade finally started to move Dane allowed everyone to move ahead of him making sure he was in the back Always safer in the back He thought as he made a slow pace

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 05:56 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 3 2005, 11:35 PM)

You have forgotten where you are, Helseth. The temple postrates before no kings, and we have not forgotten your "stances" against us. Few years ago, it was not the Dukes of Mournhold who ruled Morrowind. I believe you mean to disrupt Dunmeri faith with rampant secularism, but our faith is what holds us together.

The tribunal has brought us a new god, one who will re-form the ties of old, and make us stronger than ever before. Vivec, the holy sword of the tribunal, says this. This must be done, and you must learn the truth of this world.

We have found you in a dirty apartment, interrogating a Queen from the West. What more could be said?

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 06:00 AM

Arynel wrote through a fixation and a freedom from the mortal known axiom, from the Breton's pen poured fourth scripture and oracle.

And then a shadow that was yet to be named made for itself a house in the womb of the shelter of hell in man. The Nord who hid a devil beneath knew this, but was blind to the horror she was. And from her hand was given a gift of a sword, of which I would later make as a lantern, though I did not know this yet. It was here also that a silver topped mountain brought me to breaking.

Love slaughters those who turn away from truth.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 06:00 AM

And yet again, Dagoth hears the thoughts coming from someone in the crowd. {The creature is close...... almost found it...... care for it someone does? not believe...... kill it......}

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 06:05 AM

The Captain of the Boyant Armigers, Latius Maltne, had been right in his promise of safe travel over paths known to his men; in fact, the whole procession seemed to make better time than would be expected. Surely this was the blessing of Azura to her loyal followers, just as had the arrival of the extra food; the priests nodded sagely and the dancing girls performed dances in honor of the blessed journey.

Loranna kept as much to herself during the trip as she could, causing a few voices to comment that the Incarnate Mother seemed troubled, though whenever supplicants came to ask for advice or offer gifts, her smile as as gentle as always, the silver tearstreaks giving her face an almost ethereal air. It must be maternal worry over some matter known only to her, said some, and yet ...

And so the procession continued, Suran coming steadily closer, and Loranna sitting on her litter feeling more trapped than when she had sat in a glorified broom closet in Gnisis, an actual prisoner.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 06:10 AM

He continued to write, and he found he had lost himself, there was only the tree and the word, and the letters pouring fourth on the page.

It was then I found myself in the east, where the earth opened itself as a cavern to devour many souls, but through this was born a revelation of the dirt, which is not without its merits, although it is not the highest endeavor. But I found much savagery here, and turned to a place I had yet to venture, but awaited my arrival, which was a semblance of a greater location, which is beyond geometry, that I did not know yet.

Here the image of a silver haired Nord gave to me a map of the heavens.

There is a scripture written on the stars, do you have eyes to see it?

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 06:12 AM

And the thoughts come through clearly now.... {the lich..... must kill..... all it pretends to care about...... must destroy it.........}

'It's after me..... what ever it is, it's after me. Who or what is are the thoughts coming from though.....?'

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 06:12 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 4 2005, 02:16 PM)

"If you believe I wish to remove the Tribunal's status from Morrowind, you know me not. Nor do you know how to run Morrowind. The worship of the Tribunal is not something I wish to change, even after some of the current events that have taken place. Let the people have their religion.

"The Daedra, on the other hand, don't care much for the world of the mortals, other than to disrupt and destroy. The Tribunal do not bring you this new God. This is the work of Azura - the one that cursed us with ashen skin and fire eyes. Do you also forget the battles the Triune had with the other Deadra Lords, and that many lives were lost, and even Mournhold levelled? You of all people should know this. You have studied it all your life. Yet, you blindly kotow to this Nord girl as if she has be best interests of Morrowind in mind.

"And you don't really expect me to keep my prisoners in luxury, do you?"

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 06:23 AM

"ahhhh... the lich. It seems he has some enemies." Zaldaar moves through the crowd and gets in view of Dagoth Lich.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 06:23 AM

The grey wastes of the ashlands gave way to the greener expanses of the Ascadian Isles. Past Lake Amaya and toward Lake Mayobi the procession head, singing and marching and wondering what wait for them in the city across the bridge ahead - Suran.

The night came as the procession came to the bridge and it was decided to camp here, to enter Suran in the dawn. Loranna continued to answer supplicants, hiding her feelings under her smile, though she could tell people were starting to notice. She could also hear Dagoth's thoughts and knew he labored to find an enemy, but something held her back from telling others, and she simply offered him what support she could.

The bright future - looking through the window of her prison and scanning for the sun's rays; that's how she felt right now. Ever since her talk with Arynel she'd been sinking more and more into a sick certainty that her end was coming, closer and closer. She tried not to let the feeling weigh on her but it was hard ...

... She opens her eyes, noting that the dawn has arrived; the procession is already starting to cross the bridge, and head into the city of Suran. Loranna girds herself.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 06:24 AM

There was only a name beneath the tree, Arynel, surrounded by a garden, and the letter's found slumber on the page.

Then I ventured to the east known as wounded by a star, or rather, the axis of laws, the centerpiece and proximity. It was here that the axis of hell and earth in a mortal became as a goddess and a queen, summoning to her those who would follow, enticing them with a gift as sweat as vengeance.

Weep as a recognition of sorrow, let tears not be a condemnation of guilt. This is worst type of slavery, because the slave begs it to be so, and does not know he holds the keys of freedom.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 06:25 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 4 2005, 12:02 AM)

Like a garden deprived of water, you expect us to wither away. The only remaining member of the Tribunal is Vivec. Over the past age we have been forthcoming and truthful to the people of Morrowind. Your lies permeate several things. First you know if the Temple goes on without its Gods, it will not last the test of time. Second, if the Temple should fall, only you will retain power over Morrowind.

We know the old cannot last. The old represents a time of austerity, when none would listen to reason, only the dogma of the rock and slate and pull. The event of the Nerevarine has proven to us that we must reform and catharsize ourselves to survive. It was Azura who brought us the Nerevarine, Azura who guided him to become our savior. I believe you met him. Vivec, in his eternal mastery, touched Azura with divine justice, so to allow Loranna to carry our scion. It is Sen-Yadda who will rise out of the womb and become our God, in this new age.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 06:27 AM

There she stood, beneath the Archway leading into the town of Suran... Maranda was feeling quite naked without her sword... but she had to speak to loranna... her Robe, spakling with the morning dew, was easily recognisable from the distance... she slowly started to walk foward...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 06:31 AM

Slowly the creature makes its way through the crowd, getting ever closer to Dagoth...... slowly, with only the thoughts of destroying him keeping it going...... {yes..... time now it is...... death claims its prize.....}

'If this thing wants to kill me...... let it try. It will avail to nothing in the end.'

{here the creature is..... found it this one has...... kill it this one must.....} "DIE FIEND!!!!"

'What the.... Argghh!!?'

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 06:34 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 4 2005, 12:17 AM)

There she stood, beneath the Archway leading into the town of Suran... Maranda, feeling quite naked... but she had to speak to loranna... her Robe, spakling with the morning dew, was easily recognisable from the distance... she slowly started to walk foward...

The procession itself took little notice of Maranda, pouring into Suran and singing the praises of Azura, and the Incarnate Mother who carried the child of Azura and Vivec, Sen-Yedda. Others were coming to greet the procession as well, so she was but one among many. There were guards, of course, that checked any supplicants - the Incarnate Mother had been attacked twice at Ghostgate and chances were not to be taken - but the inhabitants of Suran were allowed to see the glory of Azura and hear the stories of her exploits and miracles.

... And more than a couple members of the procession were looking forward to seeing the sights of Suran, justly famous all over Vvardenfell ...

Loranna recognizes Maranda by her robe and blinks, wondering where the sword she would have expected was. When Maranda is let through to speak with her, the Breton woman sees a haunted look in Loranna's ever-shifting eyes, which passes quickly, lost in the ashen sea of her face.

" ... Yes dear; what is it you wish to ask?" she says, her tone practiced. A brief look of worry and almost fear comes to her as she hears Dagoth's thoughts ...

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 06:35 AM

It was then that the tree and the garden blurred, and the name within, Arynel, and the words became like water.

It was here I confronted the silver capped mountain, and having been brought low, I took back my strength in exchange for a secret of the world.

Your greatest enemy is the one you let slip between the folds of your identity, love is the sword of the righteous.

Posted by: Attrebus Jan 4 2005, 06:40 AM

QUOTE(Tholer_Saryoni @ Jan 4 2005, 02:45 PM)

"Forthcoming? HAH! I've learnt a thing or two from the Temple regarding lies. I'm not one of those blind lackies you are used to dealing with, Tholer. I know that the Temple tell lies and oppress dissident views. Just ask the Dissident Priests. And we both know how that the 36 Sermons of Vivec are mainly the Temples view of what the people should believe, not what actually happened. Come now, the Emperor is more scared of the Tribunal than I. Keeping it intact, even with two of the Tribunal gone is in my best interest. We are not far different.

"And yes, I have met this Nerevarine. You are foolish to believe the Incarnate was sent by Azura for no other purpose than to remove the Tribunal from power. And you think I and the one you need to be worried about? Old age has clouded your judgement, my good man. If you do not think that this Sen-Yedda will lead to salvation, then you are deluded. This will result in nothing but destruction, and perhaps even war with the Empire. Even Vivec's wisdom avoided that with the Armistice, for he knew that such a war would be disaterous for Morrowind. It is a pity you do not have the same wisom and he does."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 06:41 AM

The creature strikes from the crowd, moving faster than any normal person can see. That is..... any 'normal' person. The creature attacks Dagoth swiftly, leaving only those with eyes keen enough to see the attacks. 'Urggh.....' Over and over the attacks come, not allowing dagoth a second to cast a spell. Soon his form starts to become frail.

'At this rate I won't be able to hold my body together much longer. Need to think of something quick...... wait a minute......' and with that thought, the creature leaves itself open long enough for dagoth to paralize it.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 06:41 AM

They were still some distance apart...
'I have come to warn you...' started Maranda before somthing caught her eye a familiar voice shouted out at the top of her voice,
'A wise man once said 'Each Event is proceded by Prophecy, but without a hero, there is no event;' Tell me, Loranna, who is your hero?' The figure, was standing in the sun, so no one could make out who she was... Maranda knew in an instant, though...
If one squinted hard enough, they could see a longsword in her hand...
'Traitor! Do you know what you are doing? Do you know what horrible fate befell Girai for betraying our lord?' Maranda yelled to the figure...
'Meridia has never been my lord, Maranda,' The figure threw the sword to the ground, the blade landing in the earth halfway between Loranna and Maranda... those who knew would recognize what the sword was instantly...

Posted by: stratigo Jan 4 2005, 06:44 AM

Zaldaar started. That thing was fast. He started a spell, but stopped it. He didn't want to hurt Dagoth Lich.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 06:48 AM

Dagoth's assailaint draws some attention, but the scene near Loranna draws the most attention. Guards start hustling and people gasp in surprise and wonder.

"Meridia?" someone says, "The Obscured One ..."

"It's a trick! They both mean to kill the Incarnate!" growls another ...

"I am Azura's Hero!" claims a bold man, reaching for the sword ...

"... Hold!" Loranna commands, causing the bold one to blink. "Bring the sword to me. Sheathe it and make sure you do not directly touch the blade as you do - and do not try to wield it."

With a well-hidden grimace, the bold one reaches for the sword once again. "As my Lady Azura commands ..."

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 06:48 AM

The world became as water, Arynel, a fountain, and the words flowed forth.

And then I found a confrontation I could not ignore, and so I left the untrue side, taking with me a gift in the form of a string. But I found a new form, which devoured me, and the image of a silver haired Nord came and brought me to the place I helped make, but knew it not.

Make a house of permanence in the midst of the chaotic; peace is most sought in the heat of battle.

Posted by: Tholer_Saryoni Jan 4 2005, 06:54 AM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Jan 4 2005, 12:30 AM)

Yes, Vivec chose to lie. He is a liar, but his prevarications preserved the Tribunal for untold millenia, with prosperity and happiness. You have misunderstood me. With the passing of the Tribunal, I have told the Dunmer people the truth. I believe, with Vivec, that the Nerevarine's legacy benifitted Morrowind, I did meet him. They accepted both, and now they accept Loranna. All across Vvanderfell, all of Morrowind they pray to her, they worship her, they know her. It was not I who initiated this revival. My awakening was in fact at a late hour. All the things you have mentioned occur in the old temple. It is evident you wish it to remain.

If this Temple, which tells so many lies, is in your best interest, I would assume you hold truth to be low indeed.

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 06:54 AM

Maranda made for the sword, but it was too late...
'You fool, Shardie, you have been a traitor all along? then you leave me no other choice!' Maranda ran back towards the archway... the sword was no longer in her posesion, it was in Loranna's... a problem... a massive problem... now it was time for damage control... she had to get these people away from the area... she fingered the ring of Shadowmind on her finger... yes, that might scare them away... She just hoped they were not foolish enough to stay around...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 06:57 AM

'What is this creature..... that can fight like a demon..... and move like nothing of this world? WHAT ARE YOU CREATURE!!?? TELL ME OR YOU WILL BE DESTROYED!' {die you must...... kill you this one will.... corrupted the innocent one you have.......} 'What do you mean by innocent one? Of whom do you speak?' {girl..... the girl..... corrupted her you have...... tainted her with death...... die you must.....} 'N-no.... I have done no such thing......' {to yourself you lie..... innocence shattered you have..... kill you this one will....} 'What are you, creature?' {this one..... is the thing..... in corner of your mind....... shred of humanity I am...... the girl you have ruined..... die you must....} 'Silence! I have.... done nothing to her.....' {tainted she is..... you the cause is..... death itself you are...... kill you this one will....}

And with that, the creature disappeared into shadow.....

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 07:00 AM

There is a rapture as even the name begins to blur, and the letters become islands in the midst of the sea.

It was then that the Nord who housed a devil called for a celebration, and so it was, but I found no secrets here, save for the continuation of what had already begun to unravel, though many things I could not yet see.

And then came a sundering, as the axis of earth and hell in a mortal sent forth her false instrument, and there was a scattering of congruent aspects.

The price of freedom is having no hands.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:01 AM

The powerful Moon Reiver is brought to Loranna; within her body, Loranna feels a slight satisfaction - Azura evidentally is pleased that this wild card is now in her control.

... Was this why we came here? Loranna wonders, as she accepts the blade gingerly.

Meanwhile, guards from the procession chase both Maranda and the figure who threw down the blade, while people look to Loranna expectantly ...

" ... This sacred sword ..." Loranna says, realizing people are waiting for her to name a champion, "This sword shall be granted to the Champion in the moment of their need; so says the Incarnate."

What do I do with this? Loranna wonders, looking for the Boyant Armiger Captain or Aricyn to hand the blade to for safekeeping - assuming there can be such a thing as safekeeping with such a powerful artifact around.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 07:06 AM

The creature failed to finish the job.... but it left its mark on Dagoth's sanity. A very deep mark. 'What did it mean by saying...... that I corrupted her? It claimed to be a part of me....... but how? How could something like that form from me? And why did it call me..... death itself?'

Dagoth's thoughts were quickly becoming chaotic, with no real form to them. The only thought that passed through his mind clearly..... is that he might be hurting Loranna......

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 07:08 AM

Activating the enchantment of the ring of the Shadow Mind, from a dark shadow, a flaiming creature apperared...
ROAR!!!!!!!! it yelled out
'Flamey! Scare the masses away!' Maranda said, turning
Roar? Flamey repleid
'Yes, I know its an odd request, just do it!!!!' Maranda then chanted a summon spell and two Dremora appeared
'Chase down Shardie, do not let her escape!' she ordered the Dremora, who begrugingly started to chase her... Maranda summoned a Daedric Longblade from Oblivion, and made her way to the stilt strider port...

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 4 2005, 07:11 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 4 2005, 12:51 AM)

What do I do with this? Loranna wonders, looking for the Boyant Armiger Captain or Aricyn to hand the blade to for safekeeping - assuming there can be such a thing as safekeeping with such a powerful artifact around.

Aricyn looked at Loranna, holding the sword that could change everything in one stroke. His white eybrow raised, but he said nothing.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:15 AM

ROAR!!! Flamey makes his dramatic appearance, and the crowd obliges with shrieks and panic.

"Azura! Save us!" people cry, as they trample backwards to avoid getting flame broiled.

"Get the people back!" Loranna orders, as guards jump up to keep people from running toward the flaming death. Loranna can see the brave Armigers already moving to intercept Flamey and show him how Vivec's warriors deal with rampaging Daedra.

Loranna feels a rolling sensation inside her and her hand grips the Moon Reiver's sheath tightly. Someone was seeing this as time for a miracle ...

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 4 2005, 07:17 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 4 2005, 12:58 AM)

Aricyn turned at the sound of the great, rasping roar. He smiled, and calmly drew his huge sword. Vapor fogged the blade and turned to ice as he held it out, point towards the flame monarch.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 07:22 AM

Then there was only the sea.

It was then I made a house, its walls were of solitude, it’s foundation of motion. But the image of a silver haired Nord came to me, and we ventured into a shadow and a raging sea that sought to consume a champion and a scholar. And in the place of shadow were many who were lost, and also the one we sought. It was there also that a challenge rose to meet us, but he was conquered by a string.

A word has power in the midst of silence, life in the midst of death, and light in the midst of darkness; be as a stone to survive the ocean, be a feather to conquer the wind.

Posted by: Nalion Jan 4 2005, 07:25 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 4 2005, 05:58 AM)

Nalion had eyed the sword curiously that was now lying in Lorannas lap. Something told him that he heard about it before, but he couldn't point directly at it. Maybe something he read? A story he was told?

His thoughts are interrupted by the summoned daedra. He raised a shield against fire around himself, then motioned to the people around him, shouting warnings.
"Get away from here. If possible, stay near water!"

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 07:26 AM

Flamey looked around to see the masses running... however, a greater threat was aproching him, a group of Armigers running towards him... Flamey had heard from other Daedra that these warriors were fearsome... and he did not really want to face them...
Roar? he said quesitoningly to Maranda, who was busy avoiding arrows being shot at her...
'Blast them!! You do not want to be sent back to the void again?'
ROAR!!!!! yelled Flamey, blasiting a fireball massive fireball at the oncomming Armigers, then he noticed the blade in the hands of a certian Nord... fear, if that is what could be said, kind of came over him...
ROAR! roar roar roar roar roar roar! yelled the Flame Monarch at Maranda
'Hey, you can not leave!' but the Monarch dissapeared... leaving Maranda quite alone...

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:28 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 4 2005, 01:16 AM)

Laughter greets the retreating Flame Monarch from the singed but mostly still-standing Armigers, as guards start closing in on Maranda.

"Seems you're all out of tricks," one guard says. "Surrender and maybe the Incarnate will show you mercy."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 07:33 AM

Dagoth's sanity continued to wear away with the strain of the things revealed to him...... his mind rapidly being destroyed by his own sense of confusion..... and failure.

'Didn't do it...... did I? No..... yes? Hurt her I did? No.... never...... did I?'

The rest of his thoughts are wild and senseless..... and the only one that stays clear at all...... is of the one he loves......

Posted by: Meridia Jan 4 2005, 07:33 AM

The guards had surrounded Maranda... Shardie had got away... Meridia would not be pleased...
'You know, the Temple Ordantors were far better at this than you were...' She replied, 'but I am afraid what may become of this, and you... you shall not capture me... and you shall all feel Meridia's wrath eventually... Ciao!' She acticvated Recall, finding herself in the Puzzle Canal once more, surrounded by Ordantors... she forgot to reset her recall mark... nether the less, she cast Divine Intervention, and found herself back in Ebonheart, ready to think things over...

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:36 AM

One Armiger is grinning at Aricyn. "First time in a while I've seen one of those show any good sense," he chuckles.

The guard begins to steam. " ... I hate when they do that ..."

Loranna is telling people " ... Tend to those who got hurt in the panic; things are under control now ..."

"PRAISE AZURA!!!" a priest shouts ...

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 4 2005, 07:36 AM

QUOTE(Meridia @ Jan 4 2005, 01:16 AM)

Aricyn was truly surprised. He watched as the foul thing argued obviously with its master, and then watched as it disappeared into Oblivion.

He blinked once, then resheathed the sword. He looked at Loranna, and blinked again.

Posted by: Arynel Jan 4 2005, 07:38 AM

And then I found myself on an Isle without anchor, look on your map and you will not find it, but I have a map of the stars, which cannot lie.

Every action is an invitation for catastrophe, act only when the catastrophe is in your favor.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:41 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Jan 4 2005, 01:26 AM)

Loranna blinks back, and waves the Moon Reiver a little.

" ... This will need to be kept under the closest safeguarding ..." she tells him rhetorically.

Dagoth hears Loranna's voice in his mind. ... Dagoth.

Posted by: Rhedd Jan 4 2005, 07:43 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 4 2005, 01:31 AM)

Aricyn nods, very seriously, and holds out his hand for the sword.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jan 4 2005, 07:44 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jan 4 2005, 12:31 AM)

Dagoth feels a familiar presence amongnst his insanity. 'L-Loranna? Failed you I have...... disgraced both of us...... hurt you in more ways than help....... '

his mind almost completely shatters at that moment..... but something is keeping the last piece in place.

Posted by: Loranna Jan 4 2005, 07:48 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jan 4 2005, 01:34 AM)

Loranna hands Aricyn the sword, sighing. " ... I think we'll keep our visit here short. A day, two at most. Best to keep moving ..."

Dagoth hears a mental sigh. Dagoth, my love, she says quietly, we both are guilty of the same thing. We have seen ourselves as monsters and felt in our hearts something that rebelled against that, that was still mortal, still warm and human. Those parts of us reached out for each other and embraced, and gave us each comfort in times when there was precious little comfort for us or anyone.