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The Elder Scrolls Forums > Elder Scrolls Lore > Hearthfire Ball IV

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 24 2004, 07:57 PM

Continue. From here:
http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=9157

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 08:03 PM

The tailor stepped back, looking at the Nord and Redguard in their finished gowns. Beautiful, he though, absolutely stunning. A miracle!

"Thank you, m'lady, for your kind assistance with the gown," he said to the silver-haired lady. "I feel I should repay your kindness. Would you be interested in having another gown at no cost? I would consider it a fair exchange. But, please allow me a few days in which to complete it. I fear my nerves cannot take another day like this."

The three women leave the shop, full of plans for getting just the right accessories to match the magnificent gowns they carry, wrapped carefully to prevent damage.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 24 2004, 08:13 PM

*Arrives at the ball, bowing to Darius*
How do you do, Darius? As I did before, I give my word that I shall cause no further chaos. Make sure that extremely rude guard of yours is aware of that.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 08:14 PM

QUOTE

There was a magic in this place. Or maybe the magic was in the gold-jacketed needle the tailor had given her. Or perhaps it was Azura, or the heaviness of the air outside. Her fingers flashed faster than her conscious will. Had hours passed, or only moments?

Her neck was stiff; her left foot, asleep.

She jumped. A single drop of blood fell from her pricked finger towards the shimmering cloth. She moved to catch it... too slowly. And gasped, as shimmering light spread through the cloth, brilliant tendrils evoking the first light of dawn.

The harried tailor bent over the dress, the lines in his face momentarily erased by a deep peace. "Wonderful," he said. "I thought I knew that tune."

A tune her mother had hummed, so long ago. Like a bird singing in a cage, Allie had always thought. Never while sewing, though. Her mother had been so full of secrets, and now the secrets were lost forever.

"There," Allie said, standing, and holding the dress up for Loranna's inspection. She was too tired for emotion. "That's the best I can do."

Loranna-Azura brushes her hand over the fabric of her new dress ...

" ... It's lovely dear," she says, "it's a piece of the Dawn caught in cloth ... but there's no Dusk to balance it out, silly. Can't have the one without the other ..."

Loranna-Azura looks into Allerleirauh's eyes, her emerald green gaze seeming for a moment to hold her fast, and Allie feels something like a cloak woven of shadows wrap around her heart ...

These secrets you must keep safe until such time as you again fill a mother's shoes, Azura says directly to Allie's being. Then, you may let the Dawn pierce this Dusk; one small debt is now paid ...

Allie finds herself cloaked in secrets of How To Sing And Dance Just So, a secret that lets the bearer bring a sense of magic into whatever hall they patronize ...

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 08:14 PM

*Sunset...on the Eastern Great Bridge...as One and Ami make their way back towards Darius' manor Genjii,Ryx, and Yrx remain at the Orc Grash's house...where they've taken housing for the duration of the Ball...it starts to cool down as they make their way across the Bridge and towards the direction of the wonderful smell of the coming feast...One still seems concerned about transit back on this day as many of the Locals claim "the dead walk tonight"...One's thoughts of the dozen of Khajiiti laying in the City Morgue send chills down his spine...after purchasing some new clothes, bathing, and consuming a few Restore Fatigue Potions the group seems to be in high spirits...but both Ami and One wonder what matter of insanity will present itself tonight...One also seems concerned about the voice he had heard last night and wonders if 'The Creator' will appear if he gets too drunk...since he hasn't touched a drop all day he deems it fit that the voice will no longer bother them if they don't over do it...the group also wonder what people will have to say about this mornings antics...as neither has heard not so much as a whisper about it all day...Darius' Manor is nearly in view*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 08:17 PM

QUOTE(Nelacar @ Sep 24 2004, 08:23 PM)

*Arrives at the ball, bowing to Darius*
How do you do, Darius? As I did before, I give my word that I shall cause no further chaos. Make sure that extremely rude guard of yours is aware of that.

Arynel eyed Nelacar as he arrived. The Altmer's presence sent spiders up the back of Arynel's neck.

"Soon." He whispered. "Soon all walls will be thrown down, and all secrets will be revealed."

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 08:17 PM

*finishes unpacking at the inn*

*Erenius sits down and then falls asleep on the mediumsized bed, waking up only in time for the ball*

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 08:18 PM

Darius, greeting several guests, turns and offers Nelacar a polite smile, one which turns quickly into a more robust and cheerful grin. "Ah, welcome back honored guest!" he says to Nelacar. "Yes, quite all right; your charming companion explained the whole situation last night. My apologies for the misunderstanding; someone forgot to tell me that we were entertaining such great luminaries ... here, this way, please ..."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 08:22 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Sep 24 2004, 08:28 PM)

"What are they up to?" Arynel whispers.

The Breton prepares to cast an invisibility spell.

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 24 2004, 08:23 PM

Thunder growls overhead, though the sky is still cloudless. There is a charge in the air that tingles the skin. A thunderstorm is definitely coming.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 24 2004, 08:24 PM

I'm no luminary. I'm a representative of one.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 24 2004, 08:26 PM

Only a daedra, Allie thought bitterly, could evoke such a sense of wonder, gratitude, and downright annoyance. My past is not your business.

She set the thought aside, aware that Azura could hear it. Tonight was a time to be gracious. "She needs a crown," Allerleirauh said to Chiaro. "Don't you think? And I know just the right crown..."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 08:28 PM

"Brrr...Master One did it just get colder to you?" Ami asked while chattering

"Hmm...thats weird...I hear thunder but I can still see the Moons...I wonder what thats about...strange"

"Doesn't it always rain in Cyrodiil though Master One?" she asked

"Yeah it does...it has been rather dry the last couple of days...guess we're about due"

*Darius' Manor is now in full view and they can see Darius greeting guests as they make their way towards the Main Door*

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 08:29 PM

"Oh, I agree. A crown suitable for a Prince." Chiaro came very close to giggling, a thing that was just NOT suitable for the company she found herself in.

She accompanied the other women with a light step, sure that the crown Allie had in mind was not one that was easily accessible. This should be fun, she thought, looking forward to the opportunity to use some skills she kept well-hidden from others.

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 08:34 PM

*awakes, realizing the time, by looking outside*

" 'Tis almost dusk...I must move quickly and get to the ball, for I'd hate to be outside when night falls," Erenius thinks to himself.

*finishes dressing, splashes some water on his face and then heads over to the ball*

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 24 2004, 08:39 PM

*Attrebus enters the hall, his armour bright and shining once more. "They don't pay me enough for this." Thought Attrebus to himself. The guard moves to his usualy position and places a bag onto the ground next to him.*

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 08:42 PM

Melanus comes over to Darius, saying "Sir, it seems our first guest of honor is here ..."

"Ah," Darius says, turning to the front door after a swig of brandy. "Time to try and ..."

He stops, blinking, as the regal figure of Loranna-Azura strides in. All around, random guests turn to see what has captivated their host so ...

Sunrises, pinks and golds and brilliant shimmering crimsons. Deepest violets. The glowing orange of sunset, crisp deep blue and a black that was almost green. These colors of Dawn flowed around Loranna-Azura, trapped in softest silk that shimmered slightly, seemong more to reveal the shapely figure that lay beneath more than they concealed it. Delicate-looking sandals of crystal clinked softly with her steps, and upon her head ...

Her eyes, emerald green, were accented by the radiant golden crown that lay upon her coifed and styled hair. That crown, the very crown that usually adorns the statue of the Empress Kintyra in the Imperial City, shines in the light of the hall, a perfect compliment to the dress Loranna-Azura wears.

Loranna-Azura smiles, curious as to how many people will recognize the little accesory her companions had 'borrowed' to complete her ensemble. Her eyes sweep the hall, looking for Nelacar ...

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 24 2004, 08:43 PM

*Dispells the illusions over his robes*
Milady.
*Nelacar's clothes are now a sight to behold, made of the finest silk, trimmed with the fur of snow wolves, a belt made of a still-living snake, glass-covered basilisk eyes upon the shoulders, ever-changing symbols embroidered into the robes, a laurel wreath dipped in silver on his head, a torc of gold around his throat*
*Bows deeply, kissing Loranna's hand*
Greetings, dearest Loranna.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 08:43 PM

Arynel eyes the bag at Attrebus's feet.

"What could that be?" The Breton whispers.

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 08:43 PM

*Erenius walks inside, seeing Attrebus and his bag*

*tosses a few coins into the bag*

"I feel for you, guard, but surely you do this only because you love serving Darius...not because you are too slow to get another job," Erenius tells the guard as he passes by.

*nods at Darius, while glaring at his two servants attending him at the same time*

"Something is amiss, and that maid and the other one...Marelanus, Marvadus, something like that, isnt to be trusted as well, from what I gather," Erenius says to himself under his breath, taking note of it to himself.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 24 2004, 08:48 PM

For the night of Tales and Tallows itself, Allerleirauh had saved the grandest of her dresses - bright and shimmering as starlight, a million tiny white gems woven with silver thread. There were gems in her hair as well, and on the slippers on her feet.

She held her head high, looking around the room to see the effect of their entrance.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 08:48 PM

"Ah, now I see." Arynel says watching Erenius. "I suppose guards don't get paid their true worth"

The Breton steps forward and tosses a few coins in Attrebus's bag.

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 24 2004, 08:52 PM

*Attrebus just glares at Arynel and Erenius.*

*The guard watches as Loranna enters the hall. "Well, it begins."*

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 08:53 PM

Wearing a deep shimmering amber gown with dark copper slashes through it and an intricate necklace of amber set in silver, Chiaro enters behind Allie, sure that the two beautiful women who entered before her would have captured the attention of all the men in the room.

Perhaps, she mused to herself, some of them might give me a glance or two.

Smiling at such a thought, she glided into the room to greet her host.

"Darius, my dear man, you must have had everyone working doubly hard to prepare the hall. It looks amazing."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 08:53 PM

*One and Ami reach the Manor and proceed up the stairs...the Nord woman Loranna had just entered before them and the Imperial Guard Attrebus is back in his usual spot...One again wears a strange robe of blue tonight but the same strange markings are on it...he appears unarmed this night except for the few rings he has about his fingers...Ami is also wearing a robe this night with her newly polished sword at her side...unlike previous nights her hair has been braided and adorned with a Black Anther flower...One seems surprised that Attrebus has a bag and ponders whats inside*

"I wonder whats in the bag? He didn't carry a bag the previous nights did he? All this madness is confusing me...well in good news all the excitement and being busy has completely let the fact that I kissed Ami last night fade...hopefully it reamins as such...I wonder what Genjii's up too?"

"Hello...Attrebus was it? Err...I hate to pry...but whats in the sack you have there...if you dont mind me asking?"

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 24 2004, 08:55 PM

*Attrebus just looks at One.*

"I do mind you asking. All will be revealed in due time."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 08:57 PM

Darius manages to shake himself out of his stupor in time to smile graciously at Chairo. "Yes, thank you; you wouldn't believe how hard we all worked for tonight ... um, have you seen my brandy?" he asks, his bottle in hand.

Loranna-Azura leans forward to kiss Nelacar on the cheek. "Thank you; you look wonderful," she says, briefly flashing a girlish smile and an impish glint in her eyes.

As whispers of 'Azura ... Azura's here ...' waft through the hall, Loranna-Azura turns to look at Attrebus. A frown briefly crosses her face, then a look of contemplation ... and she turns to walk toward the guard, even as Samson drops a few drakes and a shiny steel dagger onto his bag.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 08:57 PM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Sep 24 2004, 09:05 PM)

*Attrebus just looks at One.*

"I do mind you asking. All will be revealed in due time."

Arynel's ears burn...

"All will be revealed in due time." He whispers. "How many times have I heard that now? Why does am I so afraid of what 'due time' will bring?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 24 2004, 08:57 PM

Outside, the wind picks up intensity. You can hear it whistling through the eaves, though the manor is well-built, no draft is felt. The candles continue to burn up right without a flicker.

Against the panes of the window, the first few drops of rain strike. Any who arrive much later are going to be wet.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 08:58 PM

*A puzzled look flows over One's face as he responds to being talked to like that from what appeared to be a flat broke Imperial Guard...*

"Hey...no need to be a jerk...I was just asking"

"Master One...leave him to his duty...I'm sure whatevers in that bag is nothing devious" Ami said

"What the hell is wrong with him..."revealed in due time?"...I think hes lost it..."

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:00 PM

Chiaro hands Darius another bottle, which he reaches up to take with the hand already holding a bottle. He stares at her, confused for a moment.

Moving away through the crowd, she notices Attrebus and his "busking" bag. Why on earth is he taking collections, she wonders, as she wanders toward him.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 09:00 PM

"Lord Darius?" Arynel greets the Lord of the Manor. "May I inquire if you have a place for a fire, for your guests to dry their clothes?"

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 09:03 PM

QUOTE(Dumbkid @ Sep 24 2004, 09:10 PM)

"Lord Darius?" Arynel greets the Lord of the Manor. "May I inquire if you have a place for a fire, for your quest to dry their clothes?"

"Ah, thank you," Darius says to Chairo, downing a stiff shot in time to hear Arynel ask him a question.

"Ah; I shall have the servants strike up a heary fire," he assures his guest, ordering servants to the task at once. "Can't have everyone being all dripping wet and beleagured now can we? Our guests would be dismayed ..."

Harg lurks on the sides, looking for his 'sparring partner' ...

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:06 PM

Stepping up to Attrebus, Chiao asks, "Did you have any luck in finding a way to get rid of the artifacts you left with the other night?"

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:06 PM

*wanders around, finding another lowly nobleman, a Dunmer on special envoy likely*

"HEllo there, sir," Erenius says.

"Ah, hello there, sera,"" the Dunmer says."Nice ball here, but quite odd...something about the servants...ah well, 'tis likely nothing."

*Erenius thanks the Dunmer after a quick chat and walks off, searching for a bite to eat*

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 24 2004, 09:07 PM

Truly, words cannot express your beauty on this evening. Is there anything you want?

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 24 2004, 09:08 PM

Allerleirauh smiled at Attrebus, at the look of dogged patience on his face. She remembered the cook's son, and the unsympathetic guard.

"Attrebus, if I could have a word, about a small matter... a missing child. The woman was quite distraught. The child and his friend have been missing since yesterday evening, and apparently the Guard refuses to take an interest."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 09:10 PM

*One and Ami leave the Guard Attrebus and make their way through the crowd...walking towards a refreshment table is the man from the bridge earlier Erenius...they walk towards him hoping to start a conversation*

"Hello...Erenius was it? You'll forgive me as I'm horrible with names"

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:16 PM

"Yes. You were at the bridge earlier, the one who destroyed the tavern?" Erenius says. "Anyway, I must apologize about ealier...I suppose I was a bit harsh. What exactly does bring you here?"

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 09:18 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Sep 24 2004, 06:26 PM)

"Yes. You were at the bridge earlier, the one who destroyed the tavern?" Erenius says. "Anyway, I must apologize about ealier...I suppose I was a bit harsh. What exactly does bring you here?"

"I was invited of course...but the strange events of the last few days are most curious...and yourself?"

*Ami nudging One*

"Oh yes...this is my companion Ami...I'm sure you remember her from earlier"

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 24 2004, 09:20 PM

QUOTE(Chiaroscuro @ Sep 25 2004, 10:46 AM)

Stepping up to Attrebus, Chiao asks, "Did you have any luck in finding a way to get rid of the artifacts you left with the other night?"

"The Mages' Guild have them in a safe place, Chiao."

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 10:48 AM)

"If I have a spare moment later this evening, I will see what I can find. Is taht OK with you?"

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:22 PM

"Yes, I do remember her..and your other companion, and the seducers from a few nights ago," Erenius says. "As for the invitation, my master, an Elder Councilor, wanted me to come here to watch over Darius and his servants...something about the Mad God and some sort of enchantment that is some form of mind-control..."\

*takes a few shots of the brandy while waiting a response*

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 09:25 PM

QUOTE(Attrebus @ Sep 24 2004, 09:30 PM)

"The Mages' Guild have them in a safe place, Chiao."
"If I have a spare moment later this evening, I will see what I can find. Is taht OK with you?"

Loranna-Azura says to Nelacar " ... No, just to have a good time and to dance, and see people happy ... oh, and one dance with my brother, I think." She kisses him again on the cheek. "And of course, for you to continue to be your wonderful self, my vessel wants to add."

Darius continues greeting people, and makes an announcement "Everyone, in honor of the night of Tales and Tallows, and since the horseshoe game never got going last night, I decree tonight we shall have a story contest, and the winner shall take home the fine tapestry I offered the other night!"

Loranna-Azura, meanwhile, looks back at Attrebus expectantly ...

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:28 PM

A story-telling contest instead of the finals of the horse-shoe tourney? Chiaro thinks. Darn! Less chance of winning for me. But I guess with the weather turning it's the only thing he can do.

Spotting Erenius talking with someone else, she waits to approach and goes on to mingle with the other guests while keeping an eye on Loranna and Nelacar.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 09:29 PM

QUOTE(FireMaster @ Sep 24 2004, 06:32 PM)

"Mind control?"

*One thinks back a few nights to when the Nord Harg had the bowl atop his head*

"You say the Mad God is here? That would explain a few things"

"No it wouldn't"

"Just what I don't need...why are you here? I'm not even drunk"

"Then I guess you shouldn't hear me huh?"

"May I at least finish my conversation first"

"I dont see why not"

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 09:30 PM

"A horshoe contest, or a telling-of-tales? I could go for either, as the ball seems to be of scarce entertainment at the moment." Arynel says.

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:32 PM

"Yes it would. Anyway, I know that Darius is not under the Mad God's spell...however, I do think that the old maid, Eleaine or something like that, and Marendus or whoever, the manservant, is certainly of interest," Erenius divulges, noticing Chiaro out of the corner of his eye. "Now, if you would excuse me, I must be going for a bit."

*nods to One, and does a quick bow for Ami*

*Erenius turns and walks over to Chiaro*

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:37 PM

Seeing Erenius approach, Chiaro smiles.

"Hello, Erenius. Have you found anything of interest? I haven't been able to find out much, myself, but with everything that's been going on....."

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:40 PM

"True...I finished talking with a Dunmer nobleman, and One, but while both notice the oddities, they don't seem to want to divulge anything they may know...if they even know anything. However, last night, when I went into the backrooms, the servant's room and adjoining corridors, I realized that there was something odd back there...but Im not sure how to get back there again, for some of the servants seem to be on to my actions," Erenius replies. "Have you found anything?"

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 09:42 PM

"Ok he's gone...lets hear it"

"Hear what?"

"Whatever you have to say...its not about doom again is it?"

"Err...no not this time...say...how is it you can you hear me tonight anyways? Have you been sneaking drinks?"

"What, you dont know what happened earlier? I haven't touched the stuff all day"

"Hmm...I hadn't noticed that...or maybe I did? I dont know, soooooooooo............whats going on?"

"You dont intend to leave me in peace do you?"

"Nope....can't say that I will...so how are things with Ami? Going well I hope"

"..."

"If I were you I'd be a little less p'od and alot more giddy...especially if you dont want to end up naked singing to hedges in the Garden"

"You wouldn't"

"But wouldn't I?"

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 24 2004, 09:42 PM

*A change in Nelacar's color occurs, so slight as to make one doubt that it changed at all, while he grins*
I can do that.

*Meanwhile, in a tree outside of the windows, a shadow-covered figures watches Nelacar intently*
*On the chest of Nelacar's robes, a handful silver and gold threads appear against the dark blue background, becoming parts of the shifting embroidery*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 09:44 PM

Arynel gazes intently at the change in Nelacar's apparel.

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:44 PM

"Yes, I agree, the back corridors of the manor seem a bit.... blocked... is the only word that feels right. Perhaps if you can distract the servants for a bit, I can work my way back there again. I brought some items with me that may help."

She grins somewhat mischieviously as she displays her amber necklace.

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 09:51 PM

"If you insist...I'll find some way to get them away from the kitchen doors. Try enterrring through there and taking a right. You'll find yourself in a room flesh with the ballroom...thats just a storage area, but beyond that is the servant's room and a lone, narrow corridor from there. Last night, I heard some things, there as well, two people, an old woman, and a Dunmer maybe, talking...something about nothing going as it should," Erenius tells Chiaro. "Good luck, and don't do anything too stupid."

*a slight smile comes across Erenius' face as he finishes his comment*

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 09:56 PM

"Not to worry. I'm ready." She braces herself and moves toward the kitchen doors, ready to enter the moment Erenius distracts the servants.

Readying a few enchantments through the necklace....she waits.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 09:58 PM

After stargin at Attrebus for a long moment, Loranna-Azura sighs and shakes her head. "Maybe if I cursed his family with cowardness for a thousand years he'll deign to say hello at least," she mutters, turning to grin at Nelacar.

Darius, meanwhile, is organizing people who volunteer for the story telling, and has candles brought out. "Now, the tradition has it that in the old days, people told these tales to one another to drown out the voices of the walking dead, but light was needed to keep the dead away. Therefore, you had to tell your tale before the candles burned too low, or else the light would dim and the dead would get inside. So, when you tell your tale, you must do it before the candle burns to the stem, and then use it to light the next candle ..."

Posted by: FireMaster Sep 24 2004, 10:00 PM

*walks off towards the servants and asks something rather odd to them*

*The servants look at each other and then one jogs off towards the kitchen, and another to Darius*

*within moments, the kitchen is vacated and Darius is calling everyone together*

"M'Lord, a man here says that several odd happening are occurring, right now, just outside the building, and suggests that the private areas be vacated, and those who can go outside to see exactly what."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 10:01 PM

"And how long do we have before the candle burns out?" Arynel asks.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 10:04 PM

"So...do you trust these people...because you seem to be missing the obvious"

"What do you mean? Your just being vague again"

"...I must say I've never been called 'vague' before in all my years...first time for everything I suppose"

"Just go...please...you cant be making things better"

"Well they cant be much worse now can they? Say that Erenius guys a thief...and the Redguard Chia's sneaky"

"So what does that have to do with me?

"I honestly couldn't tell ya...the Nelecar fellow seems a bit off too...being evil's great"

"I knew it!!! You are him...begone foul demon"

"Hehehe...oh stop your killing me...for the last time I'm not the Dam Dog, or Mad God...or whatever you people seem to fear so much...I'm just...an observer...yeah...thats it"

"Your some manner of spirit...and I will find a way to smite you"

"Did you know my word for today was 'fiasco'?

"What?"

"Nevermind...you should kiss her again...maybe when the Moons are at their peak"

"You truly are evil"

"Thanks"

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 10:05 PM

QUOTE(Dumbkid @ Sep 24 2004, 10:11 PM)

"And how long do we have before the candle burns out?" Arynel asks.

"Let's find out!" calls the voice of El_Ahrairah , the lover of carrots, as he lights a candle and gestures for everyone to gather round.

"This is The Story of Akudar Sky-Watcher and the Ambiguity of Happiness ..." he begins, his voice easily carrying through the hall.

He was born through and throughout Skyrim, to four parents. It is said that when the boy first opened his eyes, he breathed in all the fire and light in the province, and breathed out snow and sunshine. Perhaps this is why Skyrim is cold. But we do know that the boy said the following at his birth, “It is one of those great iniquities, that I should be born to four farmers. Those born to great combatants and poets are not I, but I will subdue the world.”

As a boy, he was a man. Many children, especially those born to peasants, are not very keen for keeping themselves. Some are dirty, some are muddy. Some children have too little hair, some have too much, and some have a very unpleasing distribution of hair. Others are constantly showcasing a lack of teeth while others are disgustingly displaying an single one. None of this could be said for this boy; he kept his fair share of hygiene. A peer once said that the boy had reprimanded him, “The world is based upon those who do the jobs one prefers, and those who do the jobs that have to be done. There is always such a balance, and I have chosen to exist on the preferable side of it all.”

He was a giant of a boy, sparkling silver hair and large hands, but never really involved himself in physical contest. Spent much of his time, walking up and down mountains, moving through the small farms. He would see the grass sparkling with dew and the sun rising over the horizon and say, “Poetry can be found on the sweat-stained backs of peasants. Can it not be that the illiterates carry as much nobility as the nobles? I shalt abdicate.” Finally, he would saunter home and contemplate the value of a “peasant’s dream” and whether a farm had all the value in the world within its land.

At this point, he takes a sip of punch to whet his throat, befor continuing ...

Of course, Akudar was a smart boy. He knew things he had never been taught, and things he had never been exposed to. He taught the farmers how to double their crop yield by only adding a small measure of fertilizer, and the women how to die their cloth with the pigments of flowers. The magical intervals of life and death played at his gait, so that the people of his village saw the village as it was years before, and how it would be hundreds of years later. The only difference in the circles and linearity of time was Akudar. There was only one friend, a loyal associate. It could have been the boy pitied his friend, but he seemed they seemed to lighten up at each other’s presence. Once, the boy was walking through the town. Near the center stood two women. The first was a woman warm and pretty, and the other an ugly and ungrateful hag. Although they were both the same age, the latter woman had marriage prospects while the former had none. As the boy passed, the amiable girl said to her friend, “Oh, that Akudar, he’s simply amazing.”

“Fie!” the hag replied, “I don’t prescribe to that group who bow to down to his every word.”

The boy, hearing this exchange, frowned. He turned to the two women and said, “Perhaps you do not worship me, but it is customary to show respect to one whom you have not made acquaintance. And while you remain in this village and rot, I will achieve greatness. While you are a cynic, I am a master. Like the Psijics of Artaeum I cast you out envious harlot, your tower shall forever remain incomplete.”

He pauses, looking at the candle, which by now was just past half way down, and continues ...

This story is not about Akudar-he became a warrior, a farmer, and then a king. This is about the path to happiness. One day the Prince of Firsthold came seeking the boy. It is unclear whether he had lost a wife or a daughter, but he sought answers. The Prince came to the boy and said, “All the world is pain, every part of it. We all move from one sadness to another. Everything is sadness, and happiness can never be possible.”

The boy frowned at the rude Prince, but answered him anyway, “What do they mean darling-those crazy fools-by saying that happiness is not lasting, and how do they understand that word? If they mean everlasting, immortal, unintermitting, of course they are right; but life of man not being such, happiness, as a natural consequence, cannot be such either. Otherwise, every happiness is lasting for the very reason that it does exist, and to be lasting it requires only to exist. But if by complete felicity they understand a series of varied and never-interrupted pleasure the calm which ought to follow the enjoyment of it, we have time to realize happiness in its reality; in other words, those necessary periods of repose are a sense of true enjoyment, because, thanks to them, we enjoy the delight of recollection, which increases twofold the reality of happiness. Man can be happy only when in his own mind he realizes his happiness, and calm is necessary to give full play to his mind; therefore without calm man would truly never be completely happy, and pleasure, in order to be felt, must cease to be active. Then what do they mean by the word “lasting”?

Every day we reach a moment when we long for sleep; and, although it be the very likeness of non-existence, can anyone deny that sleep is a pleasure? No; at least it seems to me that it cannot be denied with consistency, for, the moment it comes to us, we give it the preference over all pleasures, and we are grateful to it only after it has left us.

Those who say that no one can be happy throughout life speak likewise frivolously. Philosophy teaches the secret of securing the happiness, provided one is free from bodily sufferings. A felicity which would thus last throughout life could be compared to a nosegay formed of a thousand flowers so beautifully, so skillfully blended, that it would look like one single flower. Why should it be impossible for us to spend here the whole of our life as we have spent the last month, always, in good health, always loving one another, without feeling any other want or any other weariness? Then, to crown that happiness, which would certainly be immense, all that would be wanted would be to die together, in an advanced age, speaking to the last moment of our present recollections. Surely that felicity would have been lasting. Death would not interrupt it, for death would end it. We could not, even then, suppose ourselves unhappy unless we dreaded unhappiness after death, and such an idea of an almighty and fatherly tenderness.

“Well, yes, but no true happiness is meant to last forever,” the Prince replied.

“Such a statement leads me to my true point; through prudence and effort can one achieve a measure of happiness in one’s life. You yourself had admitted one extreme is impossible, how can it be so with the other?”

In this way, the land of Skyrim learned from some time to forget its woes, although Akudar’s message was forgotten.

With a florish, he grabs the candle and holds it to the next, calling out "That long, my friends; let the next teller of tales race this tallow!"

(posted with permission of El_Ahrairah; I added some lines to frame the story but the tale itself is his )

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 24 2004, 10:09 PM

Lightning flashes through the window lighting the candle.

It had been so quiet, you hadn't even realized the window was wide open.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 24 2004, 10:09 PM

"This is an old story," Allerleirauh began. "Some of you may have heard it; this is my own retelling of it. I thought you might like to hear the tale my name is drawn from."

Once upon a time, there was a king who married a fairy princess and made her his queen. She was as beautiful as a summer’s day, with hair as golden and shining as the sun, and for a long time, he loved her very dearly. But in time, her great beauty made him jealous and suspicious of her, so that he began to restrict her freedom and question everything she did. Finally, she fell ill and died. The queen wished to spare another bride the same suffering, and so she set the king a condition which she thought it would be impossible to fulfill: "It is my dying wish," she said, "that when you marry again, you marry only a bride as beautiful as I am, with hair every bit as golden."

The king agreed easily, for at the time his grief was so great that he had no thought of ever remarrying. But his grief lessened, and his councilors began to demand that he take another wife. So he sent embassies throughout the kingdom to search for a bride as beautiful as his late wife, with hair as golden. But no woman nearly so beautiful could be found, and even the most beautiful did not have hair one-tenth as golden. The king was determined to marry, however, and one day he looked upon his daughter, who was growing old enough to marry. She resembled her mother in every particular; if anything, she was even more beautiful, and her hair was as golden.

So the king formed a wicked desire. He summoned his councilors. "Since no other bride can be found for me, I will marry my daughter. She fulfills all my late wife’s conditions, and as for her being my daughter, that cannot be helped."

The councilors tried to dissuade him, but he was the king, and in the end they had to submit. The daughter was sent for. When she heard her father’s request, she was miserable, but she tried to think of a way to make him abandon his wickedness. He was the king, and she could not refuse him, so she told him that she would marry him only after he had fulfilled three conditions. The king agreed.

"Firstly," she said, "You must make a spinning wheel and a loom, perfect in every detail, but made of gold and so small that they will fit through the ring on my finger." The princess thought this would be impossible, but her father summoned goldsmiths, and soon, to her dismay, this was done.

"My second condition," she said, "Is that you take the wheel and loom and make cloth so fine that it can be drawn through the eye of a needle. Then, from the cloth, fashion three dresses: one as golden as the sun, one as silvery as the moon, and one as bright as the stars." This condition was harder, but the king found the most renowned spinners and weavers, and soon he brought her the three dresses.

Now the princess was desperate. She thought of a condition which she believed would be truly impossible for him to fulfill. "You must bring me a coat made of at least a thousand different kinds of fur, a piece from every animal in the kingdom." But the king was a great huntsman, and though it took him some time, he accomplished this and brought her the coat. Now that her conditions had been fulfilled, he told her that their wedding would take place in the morning.

The princess saw that she would have to run away. She took the tiny wheel and loom and put them in a little bag, and she took the three dresses as golden as the sun, as silvery as the moon, and as bright as the stars, made from fabric so fine that it could be drawn through the eye of a needle, and she put these in a nutshell and put the nutshell in the bag. Then she took off all her clothes and made herself black with soot, and saying some magic words which her mother had taught her, she drew the coat made of all kinds of fur around her, and she was transformed into a strange, hairy animal, with a coat of a thousand different kinds of fur. Then she fled the kingdom, and she did not stop until she had reached lands that she no longer knew the names of.

In these lands there was a young king, who was said to be wise, and generous, and just, and he was seeking for a beautiful wife. The princess heard of this, but she said to herself, "Beauty never brought anything but ill to me, or to my mother. If I were married to this king, he would care for nothing but my beauty, and my life would be miserable." And so she lived in the woods as a wild animal.

One day she had curled up in the branches of a great tree to sleep, when the king’s hounds noticed her and stood all around the tree, baying. The king asked his huntsmen what manner of beast was in the tree, but they could not see from the ground. The huntsmen’s lad was sent up the tree to find out. He came down again quickly. "I cannot tell what it is- I never saw one like it before." So the master huntsman had to climb the tree. But he came down again too. "I certainly never saw such a strange beast," he said. Then the king climbed the tree for himself.

There was the princess, curled up in the fur of a thousand animals, watching him, for the dogs had woken her. She saw that the king was very handsome, but it made her heart ill to see it, for she knew that if he saw her beauty, he would only imprison her. Yet she was lonely, and longed for the company of other people. The king, who was a great huntsman himself, had drawn his sword to slay the strange animal, when she spoke. "Hold off! I am no common beast, I can speak." The king was terribly startled; he almost fell out of the tree. But he collected himself and put his sword away. "What manner of beast art thou?" he asked. "You may call me Allerleirauh," she said, which means all kinds of fur. "And who are you?" he asked. "Such a strange beast must be a king or great lord among the beasts." "I am a poor child, with no father or mother," she said. "What is it you do?" he asked. "Are you a great wizard, or a savage hunter?" "I am good for nothing but to have boots thrown at my head," she replied. But she had learned from his questions that he was wise, as she had heard, and she decided to learn more of him. "But if your majesty will grant me one small boon, I should count myself very happy. I believe I could make myself useful in your majesty’s kitchen, helping the cook. I would sleep under the stairs, and eat only scraps." "Why, that is hardly worth asking for," the king answered. "Of course you may have that." And he told his huntsmen to see that Allerleirauh was brought to the palace, and given something to eat, and a room to sleep in.

So she saw for herself that he was generous, as she had heard. In the kitchen Allerleirauh went to work helping the cook, carrying and fetching, and cleaning, and she soon made herself very useful, for she was not one of those helpless types of princesses. In fact, she made herself so useful that when there was a great banquet and a ball, the cook desired to go to it. She had never been able to go before, because she had to do all the cooking. She asked Allerleirauh to make the king’s soup for him, so that she would be able to go up for a while and enjoy the ball. "I will do that gladly," said Allerleirauh. "Only I wish to go up for a short time as well, and look around, and see the fine people." The cook told her she could go, only she must not let herself be seen, and she must return in plenty of time to make the soup.

Allerleirauh decided that she would test the king, to find out whether he were fair and just, as well as generous and wise. First, because she wanted to go to the ball, she went to her room and took off her coat of many different furs, and became a woman again. Then she washed the soot off. She took out her nutshell and drew out of it the dress as golden as the sun, and put it on. When she arrived at the ball, all the people thought there had never been a more beautiful woman born; they whispered to each other, speculating about who the stranger could be, who was so beautiful she could only be a king’s daughter. The king took her hand, and held it; he would dance with no one else, and when anyone else tried to dance with Allerleirauh, he said simply, "She is my partner." But no matter what questions he asked the strange maiden, to find out who she was, he could not get a word out of her.

When the ball was almost over, Allerleirauh went back to be little room, and took off the glorious dress, and covered herself with soot. Saying the magic words, she put the coat of a thousand different kinds of fur on, and became the hairy animal again. Then she went to the kitchen and made the soup, and in the bottom of the cup, she placed the ring from her finger.

After the ball, the king had his soup brought to him, and he thought it had never tasted so good. At the bottom of the cup, he saw the golden ring gleaming, and so he took the ring and went to the kitchen. "Who made this soup?" he asked the cook. The cook was terrified, and thought that Allerleirauh had surely let one of her hairs fall into the soup, so that now the cook would be punished for not doing her duties. "I made it," she said. "You didn’t," the king said. "It is made differently, and much better, than the way you make it." So the cook confessed that Allerleirauh had made the soup, and the king had Allerleirauh brought to him, and asked her about the golden ring.

"So," she thought to herself, "It is true that he is just and fair, as well as wise and generous. But still he desires a beautiful wife, and I will have none of that. When he is able to see that Allerleirauh and the beautiful woman he danced with at the ball are one and the same, then I will marry him." "Who are you?" the king asked Allerleirauh, looking at her discerningly, for he thought this strange animal might know something about the maiden he had danced with. But she only answered, "I am a poor child, with no father or mother. I am good only to have boots thrown at my head, and I know nothing about the ring." So the king went away, very disappointed.

Soon there was another ball, and again the cook asked Allerleirauh to make the soup, and again Allerleirauh requested that she be allowed to go to the ball and see the people. This time Allerleirauh went to her little room and drew out of her nutshell the dress as silvery as the moon, and when she put it on, she was twice as beautiful as when she had worn the golden dress. The people at the ball gasped at the sight of her, and the king held her hand all evening and would dance with no one else, and when anyone else danced with her, he said, "She is my partner." But she eluded him, for all of that, and went to her room and became Allerleirauh again, and this time when she made the soup she slipped into it the tiny golden spinning wheel. When the king saw the spinning wheel gleaming at the bottom of the cup, he was frantic, for he knew this must come from the maiden he had danced with. So he went to the kitchen again, and questioned Allerleirauh, but all she would say was: "I am a poor child, with no father or mother. I am good only to have boots thrown at my head, and I know nothing about the spinning wheel."

When it was time for the next ball, the king made a plan. He would keep the maiden there until the end of the ball, whatever it took. Allerleirauh, as usual, was to make the soup; this time she put on the gown as bright as the stars, and when she entered the ballroom, none of the people could make a sound at all, they were so amazed by her beauty. The king held her hand and danced with no one else, and he looked so fierce that no one else dared to ask to dance with her. He tried his best to distract her, but still she tried to slip away. So he held fast to her hands; she was forced to wrench away and run from him, but he had slipped his own ring on her finger without her noticing.

When she got back to her room, there was so little time left that she did not remove her bright dress or coat herself with soot, but only said the magic words and threw the coat around her. She made the soup, and this time she slipped in her little golden loom. This time, the king knew what to expect; he drained the soup with one draught, took out the loom, and rushed downstairs to the kitchen. Allerleirauh was brought before him, and he asked her the usual questions, and she gave her usual reply. The king, however, would not be put off; he had guessed the truth. "Ring or no ring, wheel or no wheel, loom or no loom, I will marry you, Allerleirauh," he declared, and when he took her paw in his hand, he saw his own ring gleaming there. In that instant the transformation was broken. He saw the dress as bright as the stars gleaming beneath her coat, and he seized the coat and threw it aside, so that she stood there in all her beauty. Then the cook marveled, and all the kitchen servants ran out to tell the news. And Allerleirauh married him, and was glad to; for in addition to being wise, generous, and just, he knew her even without her beauty. And the king promised never to be jealous of her, and they lived together and were happy.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 10:09 PM

"I take it you have read the sermons, El_Ahrairah." Arynel said.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 10:12 PM

QUOTE(Dumbkid @ Sep 24 2004, 10:19 PM)

"I take it you have read the sermons, El_Ahrairah." Arynel said.

El_Ahrairah grins and steps back into the crowd, looking for carrots.

"Two tales so far," Darius says with a grin. "Come now, don't be shy; let us here more tales to ward off the voices of the dead!"

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 24 2004, 10:12 PM

Seeing Erenius' plan working, Chiaro ducks into the now vacated kitchen, then quickly moves into the back corridor.

"A touch of chameleon, a touch of detect enchantment, a touch of few other things that shall remain nameless for now..." she says to herself, beginning to blend in with the walls...

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 10:14 PM

*The quick and sudden bolt of lightning through the window was enough to distract One for a split-second...he then continued listening to the others stories...Ami now gripped his arm tight as they listen on*

"...yes...no,no...look I don't want to hear the specials......yes thats right one Large...with Pepperoni and extra cheese...cash...duh!!....45 minutes...sounds good"

"What are babbling about?"

"Nevermind that...anyways I have to leave you for awhile...I trust you'll be well off with out me?"

"Good riddance"

"You'll pay for that later...this I vow"

Posted by: silverhawk Sep 24 2004, 10:18 PM

Vashadimir, short due to his Bosmeri origins suddenly bursts into the great hall hushing all conversation immediately. Lute in hand he apoligizes for his late arrival and then promptly apoligizes that he can't stay long because he has business to discuss with Valerius Maximul, who is sadly not attending the party. Vashadimir then promptly launches into a critical Nordic ballad. His sweet voice fills the room easily while onlookers stare in wonder at this... character.

Ohhhh. 20 yellow men went into the swamp to come back with honor and glory! 7 men came out with scratches and wounds aplenty. But where is the honor? Where is the glory? Gone, gone, gone with a life taken without reason.

Death to the Lightning Drake.
Death to the Dragon.
Death to the Wurm!
Whose only crime was hunger.

The men came in, lookin' for an enemy worthy of them!
They found it in Haynekhtnamet.
They sharpened their axes!
And checked their armor.
They were ready.

Death to the Lightning Drake.
Death to the Dragon.
Death to the Wurm!
Whose only crime was hunger.

Spears thrown, and arrows loosed. The fight began!
Three men were killed outright, and the others drew their axes.
The men fought on, dodging and swiping.
Axes flew and weapons broke.
The dragon fought with a blood rage none could match.

Death to the Lightning Drake.
Death to the Dragon.
Death to the Wurm!
Whose only crime was hunger.

At last! One man saw an open scale. He took a spear and spear'd the drake!
Lightning leaped, slaying more men.
The Dragon was dieing.
The fight drew on though, for he was stubborn.

Death to the Lightning Drake.
Death to the Dragon.
Death to the Wurm!
Whose only crime was hunger.

7 days past, healers exhausted.
Weapons worn, and 7 men lay breathing.
As reward one takes a tooth, one a claw, and one a scale.
Two lost. One forgotten.

Dead to the Lightning Drake.
Dead to the Dragon.
Dead to the Wurm!
Whose only crime was hunger.

Vashdimir then bows out and exits. The guests look at each other, then shrug it off and continue on.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 24 2004, 10:26 PM

Allie applauded the singer, then stood up to stretch her legs. She needed a drink, after such a long tale. Privately she thought El Ahrairah's tale was better than hers... invention was not her strong suit.

Why was the window open? She leaned out, looking at the beauty of the storm.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 24 2004, 10:27 PM

“I have a story, if you would like to hear it.”
Arynel begins to weave his tale.

Let us begin with a character; our hero will be Aliel Mornican, a young bosmer maiden. Oh, but where to place our protagonist? Let me see, oh yes, a dark and stormy night, that’s how these things usually go, do they not? And a perfect fit for this night I might add.

Well, Aliel is a young bosmer, and one often inclined towards mischieve. She has been out looking for trouble, as some would say, and has been caught in a rain storm. The sky has become gloomingly dark, and Aliel is afraid that she has lost her way; it seems as if, somehow, the trail home is different this time.

Aliel begins to run, it is raining hard, and she thinks she hears something, laughing, or screaming, or singing. “Who would be out at a time like this?” She thinks to herself. The voices are out there though, she knows it; they are getting louder, clearer. She can here them. She can hear them clearly now:

“See the little Bosmer, running through the trees
See the little elf maid, dancing through the leaves
See the little Aliel, running in the rain
It’s getting dark, the lights go out
She cannot find her way”

Aliel gallops as quickly as her bosmer legs can carry her. She runs, but she has lost the trail. She stops, sweating, panting. She spins, around and around, looking for where to go. “I’ve lived in this forest all my life,” she says. “How can I be lost?” The song is getting louder; louder, and closer.

There is a rustling in the leaves to her right, Aliel flies. She moves like a wild thing, like the wind itself. The voices are faster, now they are ahead of her, she is running towards them. She turns again, and runs, her little Bosmer heart beating against her skull. How long could she go on?

The voices are all around her now, echoing off the trees, a prison of sound. Little children singing, laughing; screaming; she is screaming, Aliel is screaming and the world is spinning. Faster, faster, like when her uncle used to hold her in the air as a child, and spin in circles, faster, faster.

The voices are growing, haunting, louder; louder. Her head is spinning, like a melting snowelf the world has lost its form. “I’m going to die.” She screams. “Oh please, oh please, don’t let me die!”

There is a rustling in the leaves, all around, and voices, laughing, singing, screaming. All around, every which way; inside her now, there are voices in her skull now, competing with those outside her mind: Competing for her sanity, perhaps.

They voices converge into one now, one chorus of screams, a chorus of thunder and laughter, as if stitched together. Now everything is one, the spinning, the singing, the longing. All is one, all is lost.

With a gasp, Aliel Mornican awakes, her light golden skin covered with sweat. The bright mid-day sun cast a soft, welcoming glow on the trees around her. She decides it is time to head home.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 11:36 PM

Loranna-Azura listens to the stories being told, smiling a little as Allerleirauh tells her tale. A stirring of maternal pride rises in her - until she remembers Allerleirauh's angry thought from before.

My past is not your business ... she had thought, but that made little sense. Her mother had been a witch, a friend of the Daedra; Allerleirauh was as close to being family as mortal could be to her kind. How then could her past not be her business? Her mother had never had the chance to pass on that particular secret, and Azura had always intended to see that Allerleirauh learn those things her mother had wanted her to know but never had the chance to say. She'd have done it before now, only things had come up and she and Allerleirauh not always been on the best of terms ...

She asks Loranna What could she have meant by that; she loved her mother, so why would she react like that?

Loranna says hesitantly ... I don't know her past well enough to say, my Lady ... but maybe there were painful memories that she had pushed aside, until you reminded her ...

Loranna-Azura frowns. ... And how is this my fault? she demands, somewhat sulkily. I was just trying to give her something meant to be hers all along ...

I know, my Lady, Loranna says quietly, ... but we can't help how we feel, and though I don't think she feels you were trying to hurt her, the pain is still there and it was by your doing ...

Loranna-Azura's expression darkens, causing a few people near her to unconsciously back away. Her emerald eyes begin to moisten though as Loranna's sorrow works its way through both of them.

I'm sorry my Lady ... I can try talking to her later; maybe she'll open up to me and I can explain it to you ...

Loranna-Azura winces; she hated it when her favored ones felt like this. There was no reason for Loranna to feel she had wronged her; she was just frustrated at Allerleirauh being irrational in the face of her kindness. Why then ...

Because you were made upset my Lady, Loranna answers quietly. And because it was my fault, even if I didn't mean it.

Loranna-Azura's eyes widen in surprise ... and for a second, she felt both closer to the understanding she so craved of mortals, and yet incomprehensibly distant from any sort of true progress ...

The next candle is lit, and people look around, no one seeming to step up to tell a tale. Darius waits almost half a minute, but no one else move, so he clears his throat and says " ... Right; well, no sounds of the dead wailing in the night, so it would seem that ..."

Loranna-Azura flicks her hand and the candle flares, the flame reaching to the ceiling. Various patrons jump and Darius himself backs into Harg, banging his head on the Nord's breastplate.

"There was once a woman," Loranna-Azura said, in the echoing voice she used with her followers in far-off Morrowind, "who wanted nothing more than to love and be loved by all. Living in her palace above the clouds she grew enchanted by the sight of people laughing, loving one another, making beautiful things and daring to reach for the stars, and she wanted nothing more than to be the reason they laughed and loved, and built and dreamed. How wonderful it would be, to be the reason for so much happiness and joy!"

"So the woman reached down from her palace above the clouds, and to those who reached up to her, she bestowed upon them every happy thing she could think. She told them secrets to guide their dreams and shared her games so that they may play together, and she saw that some of these people were sad and homeless and she offered to show them a place where they could stay and bring about all the happy things the woman so wished to see. And she laughed when they laughed and frowned when they cried and she asked 'Why do you cry? Here, take this and be happy ...'"

The roaring flame of the candle starts shrinking down, swiftly resuming normal proportions, and any who look can see the wax has run quite freely from the heat ...

Loranna-Azura continues. "The woman thought everything was fine, but there were those below that cursed her name, cursed any who lived beyond the clouds, and the woman grew sad and confused. What was happening? Why did they defile her name and good deeds? Angry, she lashed out at those who cried the loudest and glowered at the rest, muttering 'I offered my gifts freely; why then do you turn on me?'"

"Many voices were raised, to try to explain, but the woman was still in her palace and not all the words could reach. And so it went for many years, the woman trying time and again to make things better, to recapture those happy times, and growing frustrated when things went wrong ..."

" ... Until one day, one man who had dared to reach for the stars and who took them in his grasp put on a show and called for all to come, far and near, and he even invited the woman from her palace beyond the clouds. Ah, but there was one thing; she had to actually come down to see this play."

The candle grows dim; by the wax remaining Loranna-Azura has little time left ...

"The woman frowned and shook her head, for she had seen the man set up his play and she knew there was something he was hiding, something he was planning. She had watched this man for so long, and as much as she loved his daring and charm she knew he could be very, very ruthless. But something in her heart told her that, this once, she should leave the castle, no matter what it meant ..."

"So she climbed down from beyond the clouds and went to the play, and the man seized her and made her the finale of his show, and in so doing he brought down the castle and crushed her under the stones, or so he thought. And maybe he did; he was always a clever one ..."

" ... Still, when everyone had left and the man resting from his heroic feat, there was one young girl who held out her hand to the woman whose castle had fallen from beyond the clouds, and the woman took her hand, and said ' ... I have little to offer you, save my companionship ...'"

"And the girl smiled, and replied 'That's fine; your other gifts were nice but they tended to hurt in the end anyway.'"

The candle reaches its nadir, and Loranna-Azura calls out "...Brother, please?" And another bolt of lightning crashes through the window, and lights the next candle, showing Loranna-Azura rising and heading for a side-room ...

Posted by: One87xe Sep 24 2004, 11:36 PM

"Ok...I think I've had an interesting idea as to what will happen too you...I'll tell you later"

"I thought you had left?"

"Nope...I'm trying to accomplish my good deed for the day...hmm...but where to begin? Oh I know.........that is good !!"

"Whatever it is I dont want to hear...now be gone and leave me to the stories being told"

"Ok...I'll go but before I do I thought I'd share something with you....one second...ahh here we go"

"I wonder what his problem is? For a Master Ansei and an accomplished spell-user, he sure is dense....maybe I shouldn't try to pursue what isn't there...on the other hand he did kiss me last night, which for him is a step up from reality...I'm just so confused...I dont even know what to do"

"Whats your point?"

"You need to seek out The Oghma Infinium...because anything that can make you smarter, makes my life easier...and thats saying alot when it comes to you"

"Ha...Ha..."

"Anyhow...those were Ami's thoughts which I think you should pay attention too...so do me a favor and don't be stupid while I'm gone...you can thank me later"

"If I ever find you...ohhhhh....the things I'll do"

"Hahahhahahhahhahaha......oh my....that was funnier than last time....don't worry you won't be seeing me anytime soon...and dont think you got off the hook from your earlier comment...now pay attention to who's talking"

*Ami leans in closer as people take their turns telling stories...One seems puzzled and distant till a bolt of lightning strikes out the window...he also knows Ami hates Thunderstorms and wonders what the voice will do to punish him*

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 24 2004, 11:37 PM

Awakened by the throng of Orcish drummers beating their drums within his skull, Seridius groaned, napkin stuck to his face after a night slumped over a table.

"Never touching brandy again..."

He remembered he was to do something in the coming day or so, but couldn't quite recall what, It was important... He mused, But what was it...

He turned in his seat to survey the crowd, passing about their candles. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Harg. Did it involve that large nordic chap? He furrowed his brow, frustrated he couldn't remember.

Adjusting himself in his seat, the sheath of his peace-bonded rapier rattled slightly. And it all flooded back to him. The duel, the mountain of Nord.

Perhaps I will have another brandy...

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 11:52 PM

Harg sees Seridus, and gives a giant, bear-eating grin, flexing his hands and rumbling "Soon, the Fist of Harg will show you fighting! Hope you got plenty of sleep!"

Harg laughs loudly at his own joke, until Elaine pops him in the ribs with an elbow and says "Quit that; it's rude and people are talking."

"The Fist of Harg does not like being poked in the ribs ..." Harg glares.

"The Elbow of Elaine does not like the Groin of Harg and is thinking of pressing the point home," Elaine counters.

" ... The Fist of Harg does not like it when people mock him ..." Harg glowers, giving Seridus a look that could shatter ebony before slinking off elsewhere.

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 24 2004, 11:55 PM

Seeing Harg fall under assault by the mean nasty lady, the Bosmer Maiden frowns and skitters over to the woman and shakes her finger, quickly afterward grabbing the front of her dress to allow a bit of faster movement and following after the poor defeated Harg.

"Awww... Come back!"

Posted by: Loranna Sep 24 2004, 11:58 PM

QUOTE(phenopticon @ Sep 25 2004, 12:05 AM)

Elaine glowers a bit at the Bosmer woman, but her expression softens as she sees her heading toward Harg. "Heh; good luck my friend. He could use a woman's touch ..."

Harg looks back at the Bosmer maiden and blinks. "The Fist of Harg remembers you," he says. "What words have you for the Fist of Harg?"

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 25 2004, 12:03 AM

"Did that horrible woman hurt you?" She inquires, her shrill but soft Bosmer voice, somewhat comforting, a lot annoying.

Pressing her hand to his ribs where she'd witnessed the cruel and horrible woman lay her assault to the poor man-beast. "Are you alright? What a horrible terrible woman." Her features contorted in a soft too cute to be intimidating frown.

Her mouth truly going faster than the wings of a hummingbird, she continues, "I'm Illia, Who's the Fist of Harg?" She moves her hand from his ribs to offer a handshake.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 12:06 AM

"My word," Arynel says gazing at the Fist of Harg. "It seems I may have misjudged our mountainous friend."

The Breton smiles and waits.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 12:09 AM

QUOTE(phenopticon @ Sep 25 2004, 12:13 AM)

"Did that horrible woman hurt you?" She inquires, her shrill but soft Bosmer voice, somewhat comforting, somewhat annoying.

Pressing her hand to his ribs where she'd witnessed the cruel and horrible woman lay her assault to the poor man-beast. "Are you alright? What a horrible terrible woman." Her features contorted in a soft too cute to be intimidating frown.

Her mouth truly going faster than the wings of a hummingbird, she continues, "I'm Illia, Who's the Fist of Harg?" She moves her hand from his ribs to offer a handshake.

Harg chuckles. "The Fist of Harg is too tough to bend to a simple elbow to the ribs," he says, "and he stands before you now. Worry not of Elaine; she is a good woman with fire in her belly. But the Fist of Harg finds your concern touching, and he wishes he had words to express his thanks."

He frowns. "Usually the Fist of Harg asks Samson for those words, but he's not here now. The Fist of Harg is told that the word ladyfriend is not bad to use, so he shall call you Illia, Ladyfriend of the Fist of Harg."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 12:11 AM

Arynel smiles:

"Tis the spark that sets the match aflame
The candle lit, to bare it's light to all the world
Nay but a candle, no less a sunrise
In the hearts of all who find it."

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 25 2004, 12:12 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Sep 25 2004, 12:19 AM)

She covers her mouth as she titters girlishly. "Care to have that dance?" She threads her arm around his, in the crook of his massive elbow. "I can show you bosmer dancing." A warm smile spreading across her petite features.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 12:22 AM

QUOTE(phenopticon @ Sep 25 2004, 12:22 AM)

"The Fist of Harg is not sure if he is suited for Bosmer dancing," Harg rumbles, "but he will try. Come; lead the way."

Darius, meanwhile, looks to see who else wants to tell a tale. ..

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 12:36 AM

*Almost rises to advise her, but stops*
I shouldn't. Any advice I can give is probably already known to her.
*More silver and gold threads become part of the embroidery, and a figure passes in front of the open window, though it's features are obscured*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 12:38 AM

"I speak now, to the prince of dusk and dawn." Arynel began, he spoke slowly, as if weighing his words as they dripped off his tongue.

"I will not claim to understand the ways of the divine, but I will make a guess that one reason you had for attending this ball was to better understand the ways of mortals, was it not?

If so, then might I ask you to consider the tales that have been told, as they explain much. Also, consider these two, the Bosmer and Harg, together. They are as varied as night in day, as you yourself could attest, I'm sure. And yet, you see they have met, they have united here, at this place, as the day meets the night.

It is in this, I believe, that the ways of mortals will be revealed. For the mortal span is temporary, as the day yeilds the night, so must man and mer find eternal sleep. Time is precious, because for mortals, it is not eternal.

Perhaps, though, two can create a spark of eternity, together. This is one secret of mortals."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 12:41 AM

The last candle slowly burns to a close ...

"Well," Darius says as the candle reaches its nadir, "looks like we've banished the voices of the dead for the night! Now then, let's have a vote for who told the best tale."

A loud and ghastly voice from outside hisses "Rosewench ...."

"Well that's one vote for ... well, um right, no need to be rude about this," Darius says. Then, he mutters " .. Oh; that's a dead person. Melanus ..."

A bottle of brandy is tossed to Darius as Samson leans outside and pokes something with a sword, producing an ear-rending shriek.

"Right; time to vote people," Darius says after a swig.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 12:45 AM

"Well now, let me see here." Arynel says. "We'll El_Ahrairah's was the most educating and I found Vashadimir's most entertaining. I would have to say, however, that my favorite was Allerleirauh's."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 12:45 AM

*One and Ami finish listening to everyones story as Darius calls for a vote...before they can contemplate their vote a ghastly voice calls out "Rosewench" the comment seems to terrify Ami, but brings a puzzled look to One's face*

"D-d-did you hear that Master One?" she inquired

"Hear what Ami? Darius? of course I heard him"

"Nevermind Master One" she proclaims "So who do you think told the best tale?"

"Ummm...honestly...I'll say El_ did"

"Fair enough Master One" Ami said

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 12:55 AM

"I'll admit, I liked El Ahrairah's..."

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 12:56 AM

*Chuckles*
Darius, my boy, why didn't you say anything about invitations to the dead?
Well, if a vast mob of rampaging dead tries to storm your manor, I'm sure that somebody other than Harg or Attrebus will try to do something other than run for their life. In the meantime, I think I'll go have a chat with some dead people. You know, see how the weather is over there.
*Stands up, looking for his staff and some wine*
Where the Scarab did I put that staff?

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 01:02 AM

Several people chuckle nervously at Nelacar's comment, all while looking at Darius.

"Samson," Darius asks.

" ... Maybe half a dozen headed toward the manor," he says. "Harg and I can teke em easy ... oh; Harg's dancing. Sigh; I'll need the magic crossbow ..."

Loranna-Azura strides out of the side room, points at the door, and mutters something. "What you'll need is a spit for the roasting meat if they try coming in," she mutters, marching back into the side room.

Darius shrugs. "And you all thought having Daedra Princes at the ball would be a Bad Idea! Don't you all feel silly now ..."

There's a hiss at the door and a scream to wake the dead ... that aren't already.

Darius's nose wrinkles in disgust. "You know, there's some very good reasons not to go around digging up dead bodies ..." he mutters.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 01:08 AM

*Golden flecks begin appearing in Nelacar's eyes*
Yes, we need more food if Darius invited the whole local cemetary. So a spit for roasting meat would definantly be a good idea.
*More threads are added to the silver and gold, which are now scattered patchs*
Oh! I wonder if I'll see Master's spirit!
*Runs up to Azura/Loranna, kissing her hand*
Sorry love, but I've got to go have a jolly old chat with some friends who were buried near here!

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 01:08 AM

"Master One" Ami mutters "I have a bad feeling about this"

"What are you talking about Am-"

*One is interupted by Samsons comments*

"Err....I could be wrong"

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:10 AM

Arynel's head dropped in dismay. "It appears our stories were not enough to keep the dead in their graves."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 01:13 AM

"Oh for pity's sake," Allerleirauh said. "You're not children, you've seen this before. Keep the doors shut, stay away from the windows, and light more candles if the noise makes you boogery."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:15 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 01:23 AM)

"Oh for pity's sake," Allerleirauh said. "You're not children, you've seen this before. Keep the doors shut, stay away from the windows, and light more candles if the noise makes you boogery."

"You are absolutly right, Allerleirauh." Arynel says. Waving his arms, a strange light flows from his fingertips to the door.

"That lock spell will help some." He says. Next, the Breton holds his hands towards the window, it snaps shut.

"There we are now."

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 01:17 AM

*Nelacar sees Arynel lock the door*
What did you do that for!?! I was going to bring wine and mutton!

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 01:17 AM

She smiled. She liked this bard. "Much better. I'm not going to go knocking the head off someone's late beloved granny just because a few folks get nervous. They'll go back where they belong when morning comes. In the meantime, perhaps some music?"

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 01:18 AM

"Well that should stop them...for another 10 minutes or so"

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:19 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 01:27 AM)

"Ah yes, a fine idea."

With a wave of his arms Arynel conjured up a lute, and began strumming a light hearted tune.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 01:20 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 01:27 AM)

"Music!" Darius commands, and soon a jaunty tune is playing.

"Well, we have some time before the feast, and it sounds like the Khaijiit is the winner, so why don't we let the winner see his prize?" Darius suggests, looking for Elaine or Melanus.

Loranna-Azura smiles a little as Nelacar kisses her hand, and she mutters " ... Be careful ..." A moment later, she pokes her head out and looks at the crowd curiously.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 01:32 AM

*Notices an unclosed window, and levitates up and out, then down to the ground*
Hello, Yhakiz! I haven't seen you in years! How's your son?
*Throws a wine bottle at a zombie*
You always loved fine wines!

*Minutes later, Nelacar walks in from a different window*
Accursed fools! How dare they attack my grand and infinite majesty! I have never seen such barbaric arrogance!
*Storms into the main ballroom, looking for Darius*
You have some taste in inviting such hooligans to this ball!

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 01:35 AM

"Did he just fly out the window...then back inside Master One?" she questioned "Why would he want to do that?"

"I think he's completely bonkers Ami"

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 01:36 AM

Chiaro, meanwhile, has made some fascinating discoveries in the bowels of the manor. A total of 4 hidden doors, all opening into storerooms full of what appears to be a life-times collection of furnishings and odd and ends of a noble who doubles as a pack-rat.

"Drat!" She mutters, "I really can't go digging through this mess dressed like THIS. I'll ruin my gown."

Quickly scanning the items tucked away on shelves and in some of the closer chests and boxes, it appears that there may be a few things of interest scattered around. Nothing that suggests a close connection to smuggling, but certainly some items that may have come into his hands that travelled such a path. A bit of a disappointment, really, as she was hoping to have found something more substantial. But most nobles, from her experience, have a few items that they bought in good faith, perhaps getting a better price than was expected but not willing to question their luck.

"Perhaps it would be worth bringing Erenius here to check for himself. He would have a much better idea of what he's looking for in this mess, and many of the items here have enchantments on them, so that's no help." She sighed, straightened her dress and prepared to find her way back to the rest of the guests.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:37 AM

"Will somebody do something about him." Arynel says pointing at Nelacar. "He's been causing problems ever since he arrived."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 01:38 AM

QUOTE(One87xe @ Sep 25 2004, 01:45 AM)

"Did he just fly out the window...then back inside Master One?" she questioned "Why would he want to do that?"

"I think he's completely binkers Ami"

Lord Darius had been watching the window Nelacar flew out of, and is bemused when he returns via a different window.

"Um .. Master Nelacar?" he says, blinking in confusion. "I'm afraid I don't quite follow ..."

Samson, who had been watching the dead outside, scratches his bald head and starts gesturing at windows as though trying to figure out how Nelacar pulled that off.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 01:38 AM

Allie had been sitting with her hands folded, listening to the subtleties of Arynel's lute. Now she leaned over and whispered, "I think we have tonight's bout of madness, yes?"

Where was Chiaro? What did Azura think of her date leaping out windows to rendesvous with zombies?

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 01:39 AM

QUOTE(Dumbkid @ Sep 24 2004, 10:47 PM)

"Will somebody do something about him." Arynel says pointing at Nelacar. "He's been causing problems ever since he arrived."

"And what would you have us do about him Arynel? Perhaps we should throw him out door?"

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:39 AM

"Yes, I'm afraid madness has come upon us this night." Arynel said. "A pity too, I was having quite a good time actually."

"As for what to do, I do not know. However, we have here those highly skilled in both blade and spell. I'm sure we can think of something."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 01:40 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 01:48 AM)

Loranna-Azura wanders close to Allerleirauh and says "I personally think he's being silly; she's worried about him but trusts he's a powerful mage and knows what he's doing."

Loranna-Azura frowns. "Though she's slowly beginning to wonder about that part ..." she mutters, watching Nelacar harrangue Darius.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 01:43 AM

Allerleirauh decided to take matters into her own hands. Or at least, to make a bold stab in the direction of sanity.

She strode over to Darius, tapped Nelacar on the shoulder.

"You're right, of course," she said to Nelacar. "But isn't it something of a good joke? Them attacking you?"

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:44 AM

Arynel closes his eyes, a strange light condenses around him. There is a flash, and the light fills the manor.

"There." The Breton says. "Every window and door in the manner should be shut and locked."

He looks over at Nelacar. "Now we just have to deal with him."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 01:46 AM

*Confused, while still blinking at the spell that was just cast One and Ami intentively listen to everyones accusations...Ami's hearts beating much faster than it was earlier and One's not sure if it's the Zombies outside...or him being so close to her*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 01:50 AM

"If only I knew a spell that could free the mind, and unleash the chains of the soul." Arynel said.

Digging into his pocket, the Breton produces a quality potion of restore magicka and quickly downed it's contents.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 01:51 AM

Loranna-Azura sighs. "All right; nobody's getting anybody," she says, walking over to Nelacar. "One more time everyone - we're just here to have a fun time, just like each and every one of you. I'll thank you not to stare omniously at my suitor ..."

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 01:58 AM

*Muffled shouts can be still be heard from outside, likely some lost drunk*
*The specks of gold that were in Nelacar's eyes before are gone*
I sees nothing funny about that. Trinimac! Where the table with boozes and stuff?
Suitor? I ain't makin' no suits!
*The shouts from outside grow louder*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:00 AM

"My dear lady of dusk and dawn." Arynel began. "I heard tell once of you and Sheogorath making a wager, concerning whether a mortal would go insane if left alone for...a thousand years I believe it was? The number is not important.

Near the end of the alloted time, Sheogorath, in fear of loosing the bet, made an effort to pester your servant. You remember of course.

Although not the same, I feel our situation here is similar. We have reason for being here, and although a small bit of madness may add to the festivities, too much may ruin the whole thing. If Sheogorath lets us be, and does not pester us, I have absolutely no problems with Nelacar being here."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 02:02 AM

QUOTE(Nelacar @ Sep 25 2004, 02:08 AM)

*Muffled shouts can be still be heard from outside, likely some lost drunk*
*The specks of gold that were in Gleb's eyes before are gone*
I sees nothing funny about that. Trinimac! Where the table with boozes and stuff?
Suitor? I ain't makin' no suits!

Loranna-Azura looks at Nelacar, and those near her can see a flash of anger and hurt on her face - very girlish anger and hurt, accented by blue eyes. " ... What ..."

Then, her eyes return to their emerald green hue, and narrow dangerously. "Wait a moment ..." she hisses, glaring daggers through Nelacar. "Just what is this?"

Turning to glare darkly at Arynel, she yells to Darius "Open the damn door man, unless you want to buy a new one tomorrow." as she whrls, marching for the front door.

"And keep an eye on that!" she grunts, whipping her hand back at Nelacar ...

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 02:15 AM

"Master One...I think hes been touched" Ami said semi scared

"Lets see what moves he makes Ami...I might be more powerful than he seems"

"Ya think?"

"Hmm....for once I can't say I'm not glad to see you"

"Or perhaps it's fear"

"Doubtful...look whats his story?"

"Who's story?"

"Him...Nelacar"

"Don't know...maybe he's just crazy"

"Thats no help"

"I know...why dont you have a drink...perhaps things will explain themselves...I'm having a drink...why not do the same? You can already hear me...so fear of hearing me is pretty stupid...besides...you only live once...we'll have a toast: to friendships, crazy folks, and voices in your head...and to love!!"

"What manner of game are you playing?"

"I know...we'll find out together...it'll be like telling stories around a campfire"

"Really...wait...your not serious are you?"

"No...not in the least"

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 02:16 AM

*A loud crash is heard by one of the closed windows*
Zombies are horribly unfriendly, it seems. I swear I remem--- *Notices a second Nelacar, and stares blankly*
If this is some hired jester, I swear I'll kill him for daring to make such a mockery of me. Hunched shoulders, bad teeth, a stench that comes all the way over here, a crude accent, a total lack of intelligence. I have none of these, and he has all of them. I want an explanation.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:17 AM

Arynel stands frozen.

"Never mettle in the ways of Daedra." He reminds himself.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 02:19 AM

QUOTE

I want an explanation.

"You're not the only one..."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(Nelacar @ Sep 25 2004, 02:26 AM)

Loranna-Azura tosses a paralyize spell back at the other Nelacar without really looking, all while glaring angrily out the windoe and yelling

GET YOUR SLIMY CARCASSES AWAY FROM HIM AND BACK IN YOUR GRAVES WHERE YOU BELONG!!!

Anyone nearby will notice her eyes are more blue than green.

Darius yells "Samson, HARG!" and his guards rush over ... though Harg gets hit by Loranna's spell.

"The Fist of Harg does not like being enspelled!" he roars. "Somebody fry the witch ..."

""That was Azura you blockhead!" Samson grunted.

"...Oh ..."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 02:23 AM

"So what do you make of that? Now theres two of him"

"Thats a neat trick...hmm...hey....I dont see you going to get a drink...c'mon...get going"

"I'm on my way now"

"Thats right...and ask Ami if she wants one too...a dont be trying to sip it...I'll be watching"

"Ami...would you care for a drink? Perhaps to calm your nerves?"

*Ami's in horror at the sight of two Nelacars has nearly stolen her tongue*

"Y-y-y-y-yes please Master One...a big one" Ami states

"Of course..."

*One makes his way towards the drink table while leaving Ami at the floor*

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 02:25 AM

(edit)

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:26 AM

edit: Suddenly realizes he left a pie in the oven.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 02:30 AM

...editted: "remember kids only you can prevent forum fires"

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 02:34 AM

Chiaro enters the room, looking curiously at the crowd of people staring at two Nelecars, a paralysed Fist of Harg, a roaring Loranna giving the zombies what for.....and One loading up on serious libations.

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 25 2004, 02:42 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Sep 25 2004, 02:31 AM)

"The Fist of Harg does not like being enspelled!" he roars. "Somebody fry the witch ..."

""That was Azura you blockhead!" Samson grunted.

"...Oh ..."

Illia the bosmer maiden runs to Harg's side, seeing him paralyzed. "Aww what happened?! Are all the women here insane? Poor Harg." She wraps her tiny arms about him as best she can.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 02:46 AM

*Glares at his barbaric double, twitching with rage*
DIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEE!
*Nelacar charges at his double, tackles him, and beats him senseless*

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:47 AM

"Let us think a moment here." Arynel says scratching his head. "It appears we have two Nelacar's. Surely there must be an explanation: a spell perhaps, I recal a certain Bosmer speaking to his own image a night ago, although this other Nelacar is quite a jump in skill. Or, perhaps, it is an imposter. In any case let us deal with him."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 02:48 AM

Loranna rushes over to Nelacar. " ... Dear?" she asks, looking rather girlish and worried. "You're okay, right ...?"

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 02:48 AM

Sees one Nelacar jump on the other, beating on him with pure fury.

"Umm....does anyone know which Nelacar is on top?" she yelled to the watching crowd. "I'd like to join in...but....."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:50 AM

"That is an interesting question." Arynel says. "Which Nelacar is the right one?"

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 02:51 AM

*One and Ami are still shocked at witnessing the two Nelacars beating themselves senseless...Ami has seen enough tonight and demands to be taken back to Grash's house...One pounds the rest of his drink before both step toward the Main Doors...Ami follows suit and they both make their way past the still fighting Nelacars*

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 02:54 AM

*Stops beating his double and stands up*
I'm fine, except for a wound on my side, from those zombies. He, on the other hand, will learn about the legendary Direnni Tower dungeons.

Arynel, I have just as much of a clue as you do on what's going on.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 02:54 AM

(edit)

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 02:58 AM

"I don't suppose there's any way for you to designate yourself, Nelacar?" Arynel asks. "A spell would do nicely, or something more mundane may also suffice. I'm just tired of standing here not knowing who's who."

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 02:58 AM

Chiaro sees one Nelacar get up from the half-dead one on the floor. Still not knowing which is the real, she walks toward the rest of the group, stepping on the bruised and bleeding face of the downed Nelacar to get there.

It's not like he'll feel it, she thinks, and it doesn't matter which, really.

"Okay, Nelacar, what happened outside with the zombies and why did you even go out there? Have you lost what little mind you had?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 02:59 AM

A thunder clap shakes the barred windows, and wind whistles through from nooks throughout the manor, extinguishing all candles.

For a moment the ballroom is plunged into darkness.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:02 AM

Thrusting his hands forth, Arynel casts a momentary light spell to help him see. Then, throwing his hands out once more than candles light around the room.

Posted by: Nael Yen Sep 25 2004, 03:03 AM

The horrible sound of giggling can be heard echoing in the darkened corridors of Hearthfire Hall.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 03:03 AM

*One casts a Night Eye spell on himself and Ami after the lights mysteriously go out...they stop in their tracks and wait to see whats happening...Ami's now clutching her sword and Ones Shehai gives off a mellow light*

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:04 AM

Right, Allerleirauh thought. Now we get down to business.

Don't argue with him, she thought fiercely at the bard generating light. He'll have his way in the end; make it easy.

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 03:06 AM

Chiaro blinks at the lights going out, then the spell that re-lighted the candles.

"Was that what I just thought it was?" she asked of no one in particular.

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 03:07 AM

Whatever He's doing, I don't know what it is. So don't go stabbing, swinging or chopping around in the darkness with any pointy, blunt or sharp objects looking for me.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 03:07 AM

QUOTE(Nael Yen @ Sep 25 2004, 03:13 AM)

The horrible sound of giggling can be heard echoing in the darkened corridors of Hearthfire Hall.

By now people are starting to panic; Darius is busily trying to stem the hysteria ...

"Right people, just a spot of darkness is all ... Melanus, get the lights back up; Elaine, see to the people in the corner ..."

Loranna-Azura's voice calls out in the darkness.

" ... Nelacar dear, you've been wonderful and Loranna dearly hopes you and she can see each other more. However, this next dance I'll take with my brother in person. Dear ones, don't get alarmed ... yet."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Sep 25 2004, 03:17 AM)

" ... Nelacar dear, you've been wonderful and Loranna dearly hopes you and she can see each other more. However, this next dance I'll take with my brother in person. Dear ones, don't get alarmed ... yet."

"Oh no, not HIM!" Arynel says.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:10 AM

Allerleirauh closed her fingers around the base of a brass candlestick, hefting it.

Oh, don't be ridiculous, she told herself. That won't help. And it might offend someone.

She whispered to Arynel. "If you play well, we might just get through this."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 03:11 AM

"M-M-Master One...do you hear that voice? it sounds like her Lady A-" Ami's speech is cut short by what she assumes is giggling

*One and Ami wait as things begin to get strange again*

"Oh this is just terrific...Ami can handle Khajiiti killers and cutthroats, but let some strange otherwordly stuff happen and she falls apart"

"Don't be a spotted-owl !!"

"Whats that mean?"

"Nevermind that"

*With that the pair turn and head back towards the Main Door...they can still hear the Zombies moaning...*

Posted by: Chiaroscuro Sep 25 2004, 03:11 AM

Chiaro heads to the refreshment table for a very stiff drink.

I really don't think I'm quite up to dancing in company with such personages. She grimaces, feeling the activities of the day catching up with her. Maybe a quiet room with a comfortable chair would suit me better at this point. And, so thinking, she heads off with a bottle under each arm to the library.

Posted by: phenopticon Sep 25 2004, 03:11 AM

Seridius sips his brandy, still sitting at the brandy table. Darius certainly spared no expense... He thought, rather impressed, The man is simply wonderful at throwing parties. This is most definitely a night I'm sure I won't soon forget.

Another sip of the brandy.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:12 AM

"I'm open to any bright ideas you might have." Arynel says to Allerleirauh. "You're the warrior here."

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 03:12 AM

*Whispers to Arynel*
Arynel, just don't do anything dumb.

*Hears a low growl*
The Fist of Harg is very mad.

Oh. Wrong person. Dark and all.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:15 AM

"Bright ideas? Bow. Very deeply. And don't look him in the eyes."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:16 AM

"Oh great, so were at the mercy of the mad one." Sweat drips from the Breton's brow.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 03:18 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 03:25 AM)

"Bright ideas? Bow. Very deeply. And don't look him in the eyes."

Allerleirauh feels a touch on her shoulder ...

" ... Before we get started," Loranna-Azura says to her softly, " ... I'm sorry for upsetting you before, dear."

Arynel feels a light kiss on his forehead. "Relax dear ..."

Then, she walks through the darkness to wait in the center of the hall ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 03:18 AM

One candle at the far end of the ball room had remained extinguished, far away from where the group is gathered.

It flares to life, and a man stands behind it with a match which he gentles blows out, before looking over the assembly.

He is a perfectly ordinary man, trim, well dressed in a beautiful waistcoat, leaning on a walking stick.

“I’ve had my fun,” he says in a quiet voice. His eyes seem to glow brighter than the candles, but it is his smile that charms. There can be no danger from anyone with a genuine smile like that. “And now it is time for me to collect the debt I’m owed. You promised me a dance, Azura, for that priestess did go mad.”

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 03:20 AM

"I should release my proxy from his semi-voluntary servitude," Sheogorath says, looking at no one except Loranna/Azura.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 03:26 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 03:28 AM)

Loranna-Azura feels a twinge of sadness flow through her - ... I didn't see that; how could I have missed ... poor girl ...

"I guess you were right after all, brother," she says quietly. "And now it's I who should pay the homage ..."

She holds out her hand, her expression sadly cheerful, and with a feeling of realization. "Dear one, star that shines through my dusk and lights my dawn, inspiration of all my prophecies, path of the Moonshadow and soil that nurtures my Rose, brother and elder in wisdom of mortalkind, please let me have this dance."

... That actually felt good to say ... Loranna-Azura thinks to herself with wonder ...

Posted by: Nelacar Sep 25 2004, 03:27 AM

*Now free, the silver and gold threads begin to appear rapidly, forming the image of a lion with a grizzled mane, shifting in an endless roar*
Free at last.
*Teleports onto a table in a side room, passing out from exhaustion*

Posted by: Nael Yen Sep 25 2004, 03:28 AM

A voice from somewhere in the uppermost floors of the Hall can be heard singing. A banjo is being strum wildly...

If there was a color I'd pick for you
Azure deepest blue would be much too thin a hue.
The daylight bright would be oh so mellow
But in your eyes I see no yellow
Within those orbs there is a soft unnatural sheen
Your peepers are strange because they're green!

Oh you don't know who you are till you've danced.
The sweetest dreams are always left to chance.
Oh you don't know who you are till you've danced.

There's a man who's to far gone to abstain
That's the reason you'll always see him with a cane.
Long ago he slithered along the road
But the snake could do not but dance so now he's become a toad.
There's no rhyme or reason to this
You must've forgotten that everything I sing is Sithis.

Oh you don't know who you are till you've danced.
The sweetest dreams are never happenstance.
Oh you don't know who you are till you've danced.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:28 AM

"What?!" Arynel exclaims, looking at Nelecar.

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 03:31 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Sep 25 2004, 03:36 AM)

"please let me have this dance."

"Dnah ym ekat. Uoy fo ti dnamed ot em rof si ti."

The Mad God take Loranna/Azura's hand and leads her to the middle of the ballroom. Their footsteps echo in the large hollow place.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:32 AM

Allerleirauh tried not to stare, but could not keep from laughing under her breath. The priestess hadn't gone mad at all... did Azura not know? Or was she simply more clever when it came to handling her brother than anyone imagined?

She watched, entranced.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:32 AM

"This will make quiet an entertaining story one day I suppose." Arynel whispered with a shiver. "If I live through it."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 03:35 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 03:41 AM)

"Dnah ym ekat. Uoy fo ti dnamed ot em rof si ti."

The Mad God take Loranna/Azura's hand and leads her to the middle of the ballroom. Their footsteps echo in the large hollow place.

"As you wish ..."

Loranna-Azura's fingers close delicately around Sheogorath's; he can feel that she's trembling slightly, but her emerald green eyes look into his with a smile.

"Shall we let the others join us, or shall this be our own dance?" she asks.

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 03:36 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 03:42 AM)

“Oh, she was mad before,” says a friendly voice in Allerleirauh’s head. “The experience shattered her to sanity, which is just as good.”

Out loud, in reply to Loranna/Azura he says, "The mortals must do as they wish. That is the whole of their charm."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:40 AM

"Ah, wonderful!" Arynel exclaims. "The Golden Road is amoung us. Everyone, fetch the cake and coffins."

Suddenly the Breton hushes, realizing the absurdity of what came from his mouth.

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 03:44 AM

"Cakes and coffins provided for the guests according to their needs now and hereafter," agrees Sheogorath with a smile. "We'll be needing a little of both before the evening is through."

It begins as a slow, stately waltz, very formal. The Mad God holds himself rigidly, each step with precision, as he gently begins to spin Loranna/Azura in circles.

"Speaking of coffins, my dear, I wonder why Attrebus didn't open the one he found in the road ... I would've liked to see the look on his face if he had."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 03:46 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 03:46 AM)

Loranna-Azura smiles, and looks to Darius. "Lord Darius, you've been a brave and honorable man; others would have fled at the thought of hosting my brother and I but you chose to stay, to let us use your hall for our dance. For this I thank you; your courage and generosity shall be remembered for as long as your line shall live. Henceforth, let this night of Tales and Tallows be a lucky night for you and yours. Now, please - do what you will."

Darius blinks, feeling his heart jump into his throat; never, not even in his wildest brandy-soused dreams, had he ever, EVER thought he would find himself receiving the praise of a goddess - a fallen goddess perhaps but a goddess just the same. There could be only one response to this situation, and madness or not, he was going to rise to this occasion. Who knows if he'd ever have the strength to do this again.

"Ladies and gentlebeings," Darius says with all the dignity he can muster, "what say we make our honored guests feel at home, hmm? Muscians, to your places. Gentlemen, find yourselves a partner, and to all, the refreshments are waiting."

Loranna-Azura shrugs. "Who can say," she smiles, matching him step for step. "Perhaps he wasn't ready to face the fact that his heoric drive stems as much from you as it does from anything else ..."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 03:47 AM

*One and Ami pause at the stairs and watch the legions of Zombies roam the streets...Ami's fear stricken still but it doesn't appear to be the Zombies causing it...One has never known her to be a very spiritual person...but tonight seems different*

"Master One...perhaps we should return inside...I dont think the Zombies are going anywhere until morning and the rain doesn't seem to be letting up" she explained

"That sounds like the most sane thing I've heard all night"

*With that they turn and walk back through the doors*

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:51 AM

"Well," Allerleirauh said, "I for one dressed for a dance... I intend to dance."

She extended her hand, not really caring whose hand was put into hers - as long as it wasn't a zombie.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:52 AM

"Shall we dance?" Arynel asked, holding a hand out to lady Allerleirauh.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 03:54 AM

*As One and Ami re-emerge into the Hall they observe what can only be described as "Daedric Visitation"...they look on in shock as the Daedric Prince Sheogorath waltzes across the dance floor...apparently dancing with what appears to be Mi'lady Azura*

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 03:55 AM

Allerleirauh smiled at the Breton bard, hoping Arynel was as relaxed as he seemed. Or maybe that wasn't a good wish. Maybe it was better to be a little frightened.

Being a Breton, he knew how to waltz, of course. Being a bard, he could keep good time. She made her courtesy and slipped into his arms.

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 03:57 AM

"How long..." Arynel whispered to Allerleirauh. "Before HE'S gone?"

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 04:01 AM

The Mad God's dance gathers tempo, following the lively tune, but is still quite precise, measured, restrained, proper. It is a complicated dance, highly ritualized, which both Princes know as if by instinct.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 04:02 AM

Allerleirauh drew breath to answer and noticed her bodice seemed a little tight; or perhaps she was just going to faint and fall over. Yes, that seemed to be it. Deep breath. So.

"You're a very good dancer," she whispered, avoiding his question because she didn't know the answer. Daedra time wasn't always real time, and though she thought she knew what was happening, she also knew that they could wake up under a mountain, miles from here, and generations later. "Surely it's near dawn."

Posted by: Dumbkid Sep 25 2004, 04:04 AM

"Dancing comes naturally," Arynel said. "With such a damsel as I have for a partner."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 04:07 AM

"Ok I've lost it for sure this....can't really be happening...it must be just a wonderful dream...do you hear this? I know your there...say something...you know you have too...tell me something...anything..."

"Hmm...hate to say it but your on your own...I dont do dancing Mad Gods, or shape-shifting people...if it was a were-beast...sure...Crazy Gods...no way"

"So...what do I do?"

"Don't know...guess we'll find out together"

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 04:08 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 04:11 AM)

Loranna, her persona being in the background, can only wonder in amazement at the way her body is moving right now. The world literally spins around her, as though she were flying, with the smiling face of Sheogorath being the one constant in the endless whirl.

She had felt this magical feeling with Nelacar and some of the better dancers she had met this week, but not quite like this - and she wonders if the feeling of difference is because of her partner, or because of the goddess she offered to channel.

Loranna-Azura, meanwhile, finally feels that magical moment she had wanted to feel, the same sensation Loranna felt with the mortals but which she herself hadn't quite experienced ... and she wonders what is different this time, other than the obvious. Was it simply the familiarity of being with one of her own? Or ... did it come from the feeling of not being in control that touched her when Sheogorath told her her priestess had gone mad ...

Loranna-Azura smiles, letting Sheogorath take the lead, letting him direct the dance as he would - and letting herself discover that direction as he revealed it ...

Other guests join the dancing; some tentatively, others with more gusto. Harg and Illia reunite, while Samson finds a pretty Breton noblewoman for his partner. Darius takes Elaine in a show of loyalty to his servants, and while Melauns stays on the sidelines to make sure the refreshements are stocked, he sways a bit to the music.

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 04:14 AM

"When will the madness end?"

*One and Ami are still staring in disbelief at the events unfolding in front of them...everyone appears to be quite understanding about the entire situation...unless its something else*

Posted by: Nael Yen Sep 25 2004, 04:14 AM

Sounds of furniture being moved and hushed echoing whispers as scurrying feet can be heard in the dark hallways above. Suddenly a full band begins playing to keep the floor alive...

On my first day in court I wish to report,
Now witness my story so true.
When the state closed its case a young man raised his face
And began all these facts to review.
Yes, they call it that old Mountain Dew.
Said those who refuse it are few.
While I know I've done wrong, the temptation is strong
When they call for that Old Mountain Dew.

The deacon drove by in his auto so they
Said his family was down with the flu.
Said he thought that I ought to just get him a quart
Of that good Old Mountain Dew.
Yes, he called it that Old Mountain Dew,
Said those who refuse it are few
So I thought that I ought to just get him a quart
Of that good Old Mountain Dew.
The doctor he phoned just to see me alone
One night about half a-past two.
Said he'd close up his mug if I'd fill up his jug
With good Old Mountain Dew.
Yes, he called it that Old Mountain Dew,
Said those who refuse it are few,
So I closed up his mug when I filled up his jug
With good Old Mountain Dew.

The conductor said with a nod of his head,
"My wife she never knew
That I take my fun when out on my run,
So bring me a quart or two
Of that good Old Mountain Dew ",
For those who refuse it are few
But his wife said to me, you can bring me three
Before his train is due.

My attorney began to turn the lid on the can.
I knew then my case was lost.
Said his honor to me,
I'll set you free if you will pay the cost
For they call it that old Mountain Dew
And those who refuse it are few.
But you acted the man when you took that stand
To swear what is so true.

-Bascomb Lamar Lunceford

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 04:15 AM

"Look to the windows," Sheogorath whispers.

Outside, standing in the storm which had become a tempest, was a legion of zombies. Their slack, pale faces stared in through the windows, dozens of them, perhaps a hundred. Behind their dead eyes, there was the glimmer of understanding that they were witnessing something extraordinary. Their minds did not function, and yet they knew.

"The living, the dead, and the never alive sharing a dance."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 04:17 AM

*The Zombies assembling along the windows have now caught One and Ami's attention...Ami clutches her sword and goes to break the peace bond before One stops her hand...they look on in anticipation while Sheogorath speaks...the strange music above them still loud even though the ghostly singing can still be heard...*

"You...what are they talking about?...whats He talking about?"

"Errr---I'd rather not get into it just yet...this guy is for sure looney...I'm at a loss...just keep your guard up and your wits about you"

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 04:23 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 04:25 AM)

Loranna-Azura looks to the windows ...

" ... They're beautiful," she says, softly. "Their own realization transcends their dead and decaying flesh, shining through like a star ... is this what they felt when I showed my Dawn, back when they were alive?"

Darius glances at the window and wonders what exactly Loranna-Azura is talking about, though he does notice that for a pack of restless zombies the lot outside are certainly peaceful. Perhaps even the dead retain an ear for music ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 04:31 AM

"I'm afraid poor Nelecar will never be completely sane after this," Sheogorath whispers. "The human mind is not something one can take and return unmarked. But your other guests will recover."

He smiles: "I might even grant them each a gift."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 04:39 AM

"What kind of gift does he speak of?...It cant be anything one would want to own would it?"

*Soft but still hearable to One chatter* "You know...I dont know...a gift of some sort...err....thats looking like a good possibility....no clue whatsoever...thats what I mean......hmm...I dont know...it could be anything, it might not even be nothing...confused? good...dude, your supposed to be helping me....that might work...I dont think thats gonna happen man.....yeah....sure....alright then..."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 04:40 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 04:41 AM)

"I'm afraid poor Nelecar will never be completely sane after this," Sheogorath whispers. "The human mind is not something one can take and return unmarked. But your other guests will recover."

Loranna's voice comes out for a moment. " ... It ... it won't be too bad though, right?"

Loranna-Azura's voice answers. " ... ........... Only time can tell, dear; what you and I share is unique. ... But we both will be there for him, as we can ..."

For a moment, Loranna-Azura's eyes revert to blue, and Loranna finds herself looking on Sheogorath ...

" ... You're like a storm ..." she says softly, her features showing her youth. " ... But it's a wonderous storm, terrible yet lovely all at once, and I can see the dawn's light just beyond it ..."

Her eyes revert to emerald green, and Loranna-Azura says, slightly uncomfortably " ... She ... has a young way of seeing things. ... Though you do lead to my revelations sometimes; that's why I asked for the dance ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 04:42 AM

Arynel was a good dancer. He and Allie followed the figures not without effort, but smoothly. She had danced in the streets for money until dancing became something she did without thought; before that, had trained in ballrooms, her knuckles slapped by unsympathetic teachers, until she knew all the basic steps, all the variations on the basic steps, all the combinations in current use. Somehow dancing was still joy, a part of the animal part of her, the part that loved to romp in sunshine and howl at the moon. What did daedra feel, dancing? They had no blood, no bodies, no ties to this world at all if you believed what the priests said. Was that quite right? Surely they had bodies of some kind. She had certainly chopped up enough lesser daedra to know that. Were daedra as frightened to be here on earth as men were frightened of daedra?

Maybe they were, only they didn't know they were.

It was like wondering about the color blue. What if all people saw the color blue in a unique way, and never knew it, because they had all agreed to call their different experiences by the same word?

Allerleirauh decided that it was probably very different for daedra. That it didn't matter. And that whatever she was feeling right now was like a new color without a name.

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 04:46 AM

"You do get confused, don't you, my dear?" smiled Sheogorath, shaking his head. "'Twas I who asked you for the dance, don't you remember? Don't feel bad. I get confused sometimes myself ... occasionally ..."

The two begin whirling around faster and faster.

"I will grant each mortal here one act of great genius, which would only be possible by an illogical leap, a spark of madness. It may be a great piece of art, a new understanding of magicka and mundus ... one revolutionary idea for each, that is my parting gift to these creatures who have been so kind to be my playthings and to accept a goddess among their midst."

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 25 2004, 04:49 AM

*Attrebus, who was quiet until now speaks*

"No! It is I that have a gift for you!"

*With that, Attrebus picks up the bag and pulls out two items: The Platter of Maddness and the Wabbajack. The guard walks towards Sheogorath and Loranna/Azura, hoding the items out for Sheogorath to take.*

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 04:50 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 04:56 AM)

Loranna-Azura smiles. " ... Thank you," she says, leaning forward, to kiss the lips of madness as she whirls around faster and faster ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 05:00 AM

The Wabbajack and The Mad Platter fly from Attrebus's hands, drawn into the vortex around the whirling Princes.

"My favorite gift! What already belongs to me!" Sheogorath laughs drawing back from the kiss. "Thee who gives shall soon forgive what they who got forgot!"

The Mad One looks to the windows and whispers, "One last gift for those who never ask."

Eyes locked with the zombies, he speaks their language, lips moving with no sound.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 05:09 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 05:10 AM)

Loranna-Azura watches her brother with a smile, her eyes emerald green but her expression that of a young woman, with romantic dreams ...

Is he ... Loranna asks hesitantly.

I think he is ... Azura answers back. He's letting them go, letting this be their final sight on Nirn. A happy end to a usually ghoulish holiday ...

Loranna smiled, her inward joy shining forth on her body's face; for this moment, any lingering doubt she had left about joining herself with Azura vanished. She had danced with the Mad God and he showed the side Azura said was always there, just hard for mortal eyes to see. Poor souls who had suffered getting out of their graves again and again were finally being given rest, and even that silly guard was getting a chance to make his own dreams of heroism come true.

She wasn't a warrior, but at this moment Loranna felt very much like the heroien she always dreamed of being, the princess who ventured into the world and through magic and kindness made things good ...

Posted by: Sheogorath Sep 25 2004, 05:13 AM

Sheogorath is no longer visible in the whirlwind, but his voice, always calm, a little mocking, can still be heard: "Goodbye, guests. I will dance with each and every one of you all in good time ..."

There is a flash of lightning outside the window, bright enough to turn the whole room white, and when it dims, the Mad God is gone.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 05:15 AM

Do I forgive him? Allie's lips moved, without sound.

She had needed madness, once in her life, needed it desperately, begged for it and been denied. Now the need was long past, there he was... dancing. Why?

Why anything?

Do I forgive him?

She still didn't know. She shook her head, and turned to thank Arynel, who seemed relieved.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 05:16 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 05:23 AM)

Loranna-Azura is still spinning when Sheogorath vanishes, and everyone can see her leaning forward for another kiss ...

... Emerald green eyes open, and see that Sheogorath is gone, and confusion crosses her face for a moment, followed by a whisper:

"Wait ... wait for me ..."

Loranna-Azura stops moving, her eyes trembling. "Wait ... oh, no; I can't ... "

Slowly, she sinks to her knees, her voice repeating dully " ... I can't ... I can't ... of Padomy I can't ..."

Posted by: Striker Sep 25 2004, 05:18 AM

*As Sheogorath takes Attrebus' gifts, a small glow appears at the edge of the dance floor. The glow get's brighter and brighter until a figure can be seen. Surrounded by light, a Khajiit appears. He is transperant and it is hard to make out who exactly it is.*

"Stri'Ker!" Exclaims Attrebus, recognising his former metor instantly.

*The Khajiit looks at Attrebus, his eyes sparkling with amusement. Then Stri'Ker starts dancing with something unseen around the room. After a couple of laps of graceful, perfectly timed movements, his form slowly fades from view, leaving all looking in shocked awe.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 05:25 AM

"Stri'Ker," Allie whispered. Was he well? Was it really him, or an illusion?

She bent over Loranna. Azura. Surely this was Azura; she couldn't see her eyes. Allie felt that she'd like to collapse herself, but knew that she wouldn't.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 05:25 AM

QUOTE(Striker @ Sep 25 2004, 05:28 AM)

Dimly, Loranna-Azura whispers " ... I'm sorry ..." before hugging herself ...

Darius and Elaine, having finished their dance, look at Loranna-Azura; gradually, a crowd of people form around her, silently watching, lips unmoving.

Loranna-Azura looks up at Allerleirauh, tears filling her eyes and making it hard to see if they are blue or green. Slowly, she holds out a hand and asks " ... Help me ... help me up ... please ..."

Posted by: One87xe Sep 25 2004, 05:26 AM

QUOTE(Sheogorath @ Sep 25 2004, 01:56 AM)

"I will grant each mortal here one act of great genius, which would only be possible by an illogical leap, a spark of madness. It may be a great piece of art, a new understanding of magicka and mundus ... one revolutionary idea for each, that is my parting gift to these creatures who have been so kind to be my playthings and to accept a goddess among their midst."

"Hmm...this is a paradox...a revolutionary idea...a great piece of art...a new understanding of Magicka...which would you choose?"

"I'd go with the obvious choice...the one you should have made years ago...but if a madman can see fit to give you a gift...perhaps I can too..."

*A shimmering light appears that apparently only One can see, as everyones still fixated on the dancing Prince Azura/Loranna as Sheogorath has seemingly disappeared...a small glyph of unknown writing appears before him and quickly disappears...One feels a slight tingle sensation as the light dissipatates*

"There yeah go...now you can contact me when ever you need too..."

"How does it work?"

"Like you would normally cast a spell...but you have to say...oh...I don't know...how about..."Crosser"...yeah...thats it...ok One your on your own for now...remember what I said and take care......oh yeah one more thing: when the time comes for you too choose bring this too mind "just do it"..."

"Err...thanks...I think..."

*One waits for a response but it never comes...he snaps back to reality
and continues watching the fiasco unfolding around him...but he feels different.......and the tingly sensation is still present*

*They wait an additional few minutes but the earlier battle and the winding down of the earlier consumed Restore Fatigue Potions both were taking there toll*

*Yawning* "Ahh...Master One I really require rest" she said sleepily

"Ok Ami...I think its safe to go back now anyways....this has been the strangest night so far and I'd like nothing more than to pretend that it didn't happen"

*With those words One and Ami make their way out the door and head towards the Eastern Great Bridge*

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 05:30 AM

Allie put a powerful arm around the girl's waist, lifted her, propelled her to a seat. "What's wrong?"

She looked at the stunned, silent crowd. "Someone bring her a drink. Now."

Posted by: Carnajo Sep 25 2004, 05:37 AM

Carnajo jumps forward at the opportunity present and offers a clear glass of cool water, thinking that brandy might not be all that apropriate at the moment.

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 05:43 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Sep 25 2004, 05:40 AM)

Allie put a powerful arm around the girl's waist, lifted her, propelled her to a seat. "What's wrong?"

She looked at the stunned, silent crowd. "Someone bring her a drink. Now."

" ... I couldn't follow him back," Loranna-Azura says quietly. "It was the natural thing to do, the culmination of our dance, a return to Oblivion and a leaving of our mortal shapes ... but I couldn't leave her."

She takes a deep breath, accepting a glass of water from Carnajo. Her emerald eyes begin to clear, and seem slightly haunted. " ... I really did commit myself to this new path; I - thought that with the power I still wielded, I could return to Moonshadow whenever I wished, and I just felt ... comfortable ... in Loranna, and wasn't in the mood to go back just yet. I was wrong."

Loranna-Azura looks up at the crowd of people, blinking. Allerleirauh can feel her start to relax.

" ... At Hogithum, I was bound and gagged and cursed, all of which I knew was going to happen and which I bore through with gritted teeth, and I was humiliated and burned with anger and frustration at the people I couldn't lash out at. Tonight ... tonight I betrayed myself, showed myself to be weak in front of everyone, and all because of my own blind following of a path that I didn't know to start with ... "

" ... But I feel ... happy ..."

She raises her voice a little. "Sometimes, in order to truly experience a revelation, you have to surrender to it, to allow yourself to be seen as foolish and weak and fallable. The shrouds of dusk can be very, very thick some times, and only with much effort can they be peeled back to reveal the dawn ... but it's an effort made in surrendering as often as it is in conquering. Remeber this dears, and may it someday help you see the light ..."

She squeezes Allie's hand. " ... I'll be okay; I can feel the moment of understanding fading already. Just ... let me stay in this moment until it's fully gone; maybe some of the understanding will stay, this time ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Sep 25 2004, 05:54 AM

Allerleirauh's natural reaction to this revelation was skepticism. She knew Azura to be capable of lies, even big lies; she claimed to have cursed the Dunmer when it suited her; claimed not to have, when that suited her. The Trial had been planned all along, Vivec hadn't put one over on her... she meant to do that.

Sure.

But Allie believed her that she was surprised at her own weakness, frightened and unhappy, in this moment of transcendant happiness. And kindness was the important thing. Allerleirauh knew the power of surrendering, herself.

She would wait with Azura, for now, since she was needed.

Posted by: Carnajo Sep 25 2004, 05:59 AM

Carnajo lowers his head.

"My lady, I offer my services to you."

Posted by: Loranna Sep 25 2004, 06:04 AM

QUOTE(Carnajo @ Sep 25 2004, 06:09 AM)

Carnajo lowers his head.

"My lady, I offer my services to you."

Loranna-Azura smiles, but shakes her head. "Your kind offer is enough; I just need a little bit of time to rest," she says. "Thank you, though ..." she whispers as she closes her eyes.

------

And at this point, I realize that it's 6 AM, that I've been at this for almost twelve hours if not longer, and that I got through the last two hours on the strength of Tedder's and everyone else's incredible posts. It's time for sleep

Tales and Tallows Night will continue today/tomorrow, as we play out the feast and the entertainments to be had. Swordplay and singing shall grace our dinner, and we'll finally get a chance to see the tapestry, we hope

For now though ... a very warm thank you to everyone, and if any of you see me before 5 PM EST tomorrow, smack me hard and send me to bed.

Good night,

Loranna

Posted by: Attrebus Sep 25 2004, 06:05 AM

Closed. Thread continued here:

http://www.elderscrolls.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=9557