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The Elder Scrolls Forums _ Elder Scrolls Lore _ RP: Morrowind Moonlight

Posted by: Nalion Jun 26 2005, 08:09 AM

QUOTE

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

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

This is an 'open roleplay' and everyone is encouraged to join in at any time!

'Open' roleplay does not mean 'unorganized' or 'limitless', however. The events in this story are usually planned, and if something BIG happens, you can be certain that it is the result of much discussion between players, usually in the mIRC chat (#Loranna_RP). This is not just a bunch of disorganized individuals doing what they think would be fun for their character at the time.

So, while everyone is welcome to join in, they are NOT welcome to jump in and do big, world-changing things without DISCUSSING IT FIRST. Let me be very clear about what cannot be done without permission:

1:
Any action that effects another person's character, for ill or good. Although most people realize they can't harm another person's character without permission, many don't realize that you can't HELP another character without permission, either. Many characters have flaws for a reason. Don't go healing, saving, or otherwise fixing another character without DISCUSSING IT FIRST with the player involved.

2:
Any event that would drastically change things that have been done to the world, whether the change is physical (rebuilding destroyed locations), political (converting a population to a new cause), military (killing off all the badguys) or anything else. Almost every situation, good or bad, that exists in the RP was done for some reason. Don't go changing or fixing things without DISCUSSING IT FIRST with the group.

Everyone who is involved in the RP is welcome in the mIRC chat channel #Loranna_RP. If you have a plot idea then you are encouraged to go there and discuss it. If you cannot get on the channel for some reason, or if the player whos character you would affect with your plan is not there, then PM them using this board's PM function. That's what it's there for.

For information on reaching #Loranna_RP via Mirc or Chatspike, look http://www.ravensky.org/irc/.

Not following the above advice will only result in one thing: your post is likely to be completely ignored by everyone as if it did not happen. This is obvously not good for anyone, so please, discuss major events before doing them.

Remember: Secret plans and surprises are seldom fun for anyone else. Before they're revealed they're boring, because nobody knows about them, and afterwards they're just annoying, because nobody knew about them.
Thank you, and have fun!

[OOC: by the consensus of two funny Bretons and the inspiration given by an absent barmaid we hereby decree that this RP shall be renamed to Morrowind Moonlighting ]

Summary for Nalion
Nalion currently is part of the group traveling to Vos to find out more about Raithmats son Seres. The male breton mage is currently talking to Shaka.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 26 2005, 08:12 AM

OOC:

The Breton Arynel is currently with Nalion, Shaka, and Falco, laughing.

Posted by: syronj Jun 26 2005, 08:17 AM

Summary for Shaka: Currently discussing with Nalion whether to hire Falco. Group is in Dagon Fel.

Posted by: Nalion Jun 26 2005, 08:20 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 26 2005, 08:08 AM)

Shaka walked off with Nalion for a moment. "I have to admit it's a little sweet, this honeyed mead," he admitted. "But when around Nords, do as the Nords do."

Nalion laughed. "Actually, nords do have some good stuff, they are experts in drinking, so I guess they know what they do."

As the Argonian and Nalion walked towards the inn, the mages gaze turned a bit more serious. "You wanted to speak to me, Shaka?"

Posted by: syronj Jun 26 2005, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jun 26 2005, 02:20 AM)

As the Argonian and Nalion walked towards the inn, the mages gaze turned a bit more serious. "You wanted to speak to me, Shaka?"

The battlemage had grown equally thoughtful. "We've made a good start in reaching Dagon Fel and, if not being adopted by the locals, at least getting noticed more positively than not. I don't completely approve of Slyvos torching that dwemer tower, but he seems to have loosened up somewhat.

But this Rogue is a new complication. Some mages might say the gods put people in our paths for a reason. Other people I've known would think us fools for adding to our party at this point. Do you have any ideas?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 26 2005, 08:36 AM

Info for Loranna:

Race: Nord
Sex: Female
Similarities to Sybil Shepard: Is female, attractive, and often exasperated with her male co-star

Info for Gram:

Race: Nord
Sex: Male
Hair: Red, full beard (think Red Hair from Conan the Barbarian)
Eyes: Blue
Similarities to Bruce Willis: Is tough as nails and looks good beating up on bad guys
===

Summary for Loranna:

Loranna is on mainland Morrowind, having recently visited Lady Dres Vendama to learn more about the disinhereted son of Seresina, Lord Raithmat's daughter. It seems that seres met with werewolves in his infancy ...

In the meantime, while wondering how her companions are doing, Loranna is taking care of Ald Raathim's affairs.

Summary for Gram:

Gram is in Dagon Fel, searching for more mead and boats to Vas.

Posted by: Nalion Jun 26 2005, 08:48 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 26 2005, 08:36 AM)

Nalion smiled. He thought about what it meant to actually be a part of this group, not just adventuring, but all the other, mostly not so visible implications that set this group apart from almost everything else.

"People act foolish at times, but I don't think we act that way now. I do not object to a certain wariness, in fact, I have been wary at times, too. He might well be useful, maybe not exactly in the manner he thinks he can be useful now, but I have no objections to welcome him." the Breton mage answered.
"Well, and I think Arynel likes him, too. At least that's what I think I gathered from his words. And well, Shaka, remember, you are a rather new member of the party, too." Nalion said and patted the Argonian on the back.

Posted by: syronj Jun 26 2005, 08:54 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jun 26 2005, 02:48 AM)

"People act foolish at times, but I don't think we act that way now. I do not object to a certain wariness, in fact, I have been wary at times, too. He might well be useful, maybe not exactly in the manner he thinks he can be useful now, but I have no objections to welcome him." the Breton mage answered.
"Well, and I think Arynel likes him, too. At least that's what I think I gathered from his words. And well, Shaka, remember, you are a rather new member of the party, too." Nalion said and patted the Argonian on the back.

Shaka smiled. "You have a point there, friend Breton," he said. "And if the oracular Arynel approves of him, that's something too. It's hard for me to read him sometimes.

If you think Falco deserves a chance, who am I to question it." Shaka stopped and looked at the wooden sign: End of the World. "Interesting choice of a name there . . . ."

Posted by: Nalion Jun 26 2005, 09:01 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 26 2005, 08:54 AM)

"No, my friend, you're wrong. Actually, I very much appreciate the fact that you are making your own thoughts on this. This shows two things: First, you actually care about who is in the company and care about the company. Second: you use your brain independently from the thoughts of others. Questioning our decisions will perhaps open new or overlooked insights for us all and thus help the progress of our party." Nalion looked at Shaka with approval, then entered the tavern to order mead. After his request was served, they both returned to the place where Arynel sat.

Posted by: Aki Jun 26 2005, 10:29 AM

Summary type object:
Reichi Sari, the male Dunmeri Werewolf and former Assassin is in Dagon Fel with the others, uh..doing stuff. While Tohe, the male Breton Werewolf is in Solunastra, doing nothin'.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 26 2005, 07:36 PM

Summary

Falco is currently bartering with the group to see if they will hire him as a guide.

As the others waled out of earshot to discuss his joining the group Falco drew his saber. He also pulled out a small pouch containing polish and a small cotton cloth. He applied the polish to the cloth and began the cleaning of the blade. The saber didn't need to be cleaned, but it was an indirect way of showing his possible employers he could hold his own in a fight also. He suppressed a snicker, knowing that the ability to handle a weapon often determined wether he would be hired or not. Once the blade was polished he placed it back in the sheath. He then sat back against a large boulder and began whistling as he often did when he was anxious or impatient.

Posted by: syronj Jun 27 2005, 08:08 AM

Later that evening, when the campfire was dying down and the conversations grew shorter, Shaka decided to call it a night. He would give the End of the World a try.

He said good night to the others and shouldered the Spear and bag. As he approached the inn, he noted the cheering glow from its windows, and that the mead had fogged his head.

After paying for the first night's lodging in Dagon Fel, Shaka heard the pub downstairs begin a sing-along. He smiled slightly at the sound of an elbow-driven bagpipe and a tenor's lead. After the first verse, the other patrons joined in with their rougher voices. Shaka's smile faded when he heard what sounded like "Azura". Surely there couldn't be surviving Azurites, even this far north?

A moment later, he relaxed as he realized the tune was an old sea-shanty composed by some anonymous Breton before the apocalyptic events of the Blue Dawn. These were working folk, not cultists. He listened a moment to the tune "Morrowind":

Morrowind/ Elven home/

Where my fate/ calls to me/

Moon-And-Star, in Thy Hands

Calls it forth: Resdayni

And a red mountain waits to the north/

Silently /

Patiently.

Empire's chains/ Hold my arms,

Temple lies/ Hold my heart

It will be at the end,/ As it was at the start/

And the Tribunal hide in the dark/

Silently/

Fearfully.

Be with us/ Azura,

Goddess Moon, Daedric star

We are all / In Your hands

We must all/ Journey far.

And the Hortator waits at the door

Era's end. /

Nerevar.

Shaka drifted off to sleep as the patrons began other ballads. It had been an unpredictable and full day.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 27 2005, 11:18 PM

Falco stood up. He had a sudden idea. He approached the end of the world inn. Inside was some silly song being sung by the drunken patrons. This oughtta be easy. He thought. With a single leap he caught hold of a a torch holder (don't know what the real name is. I'm referring to one of the metal things that hold torches to walls.) on the outside wall. He pulled himself up. With another leap he had caught hold of the roof. Falco hoisted hmself up onto the roof. The thing was practically vibrating from the raket of the drunken patrons. Falco merely walked to a window on the highest part of the roof and hopped into the room. The room consisted of a single empty bed and a nightstand. The door was locked as they usually are at inns. But the foolish innkeeper hadn't counted on someone coming through the window. Falco went to sleep that night admiring his own cleverness.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 27 2005, 11:39 PM

Dagon Fel - Nighttime

Though the necromancer's tower had been burned earlier today, few people walked the streets at night still, out of habit. The Imperial Guards wandered through the streets, torches in hand, keeping wary eyes open - the air still carried a faint tension that they had felt ever since the first night Helvig and Freya, both lost during the months of chaos in the beginning of the new year, walked through the streets and turned their youthful eyes skyward, the wounds inflicted by the Daedra still visible on their intangible bodies ...

While the guards wandered the streets, something stirred within the burned tower, though none noticed at the time. A figure swathed in concealing robes picked through the ash left by Slyvos's magic, muttering dark curses.

"So, the slave fancies himself a mage ..." a grating voice whispered. "And it deems itself worthy to judge my magic thus ... I who have suffered, who had to scavenge for every scrap of arcane lore I possess." A disturbed grin split the figure's face; "It will pay for this ... its friends as well ..."

The fires had not destroyed quite everything; a hidden stash had escaped the flames, bearing a sharp dagger of enchanted Daedric steel and a few potions that brought death to those who imbibed. The figure claimed these possessions, then touched an amulet around its neck; it faded from view, seeming to blend into the very shadows. None of the guards noticed the shdow figure as it slipped toward the End Of The World.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 12:17 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 27 2005, 05:39 PM)

The fires had not destroyed quite everything; a hidden stash had escaped the flames, bearing a sharp dagger of enchanted Daedric steel and a few potions that brought death to those who imbibed. The figure claimed these possessions, then touched an amulet around its neck; it faded from view, seeming to blend into the very shadows. None of the guards noticed the shdow figure as it slipped toward the End Of The World.

In his dormer room, Shaka stirred in his sleep. His warding glyphs were starting to flicker. Instead of tattoos, Shaka had had emerald Glass beads embedded in the scales of his left forearm.

The beads began to glow more brightly, even a little warm to the touch, but Shaka's senses had been dulled by mead.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 12:36 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 06:17 PM)

A flitting shadow passes silently through the End Of The World, the Nords sitting in the common room being too engrossed with their drinks or the spirited conversation going on between Gram and Farfhd Horn-Fist about taking on the giant battlecats of Elsweyr. The figure reaches the door to Shaka's room just as Farfhd decides to take the conversation outside so that Gram may demonstrate his technique more easily.

The figure scowls unseen; blasted Nords were always too loud and aggresive for their own good. It was a wonder they didn't kill themselves off; their corpses made for good zombies, however ...

The figure pauses for but a second to contemplate the lock in front of it; a slim wire is pulled from its sleeve and quietly worked into the lock, and soon the figure opens the door soundlessly, gliding into the room. It was good to keep up one's mundane skills; often rival mages would ward their locks but neglect the mundane defenses to lockpicking.

This room, the figure notes, contained one of the lizards that was hopping about the new adventurers. Lizard corpses were useful too for the figure's research, and removing the scaly, smelly beastfolk was always a service to one's fellows the figure was willing to provide.

The Daedric dagger rises over the figure's head; a flitting, nearly transparent shadow stalks Shaka's bed, poised to strike.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 12:47 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 27 2005, 06:36 PM)

The Daedric dagger rises over the figure's head; a flitting, nearly transparent shadow stalks Shaka's bed, poised to strike.

Shaka's eyes snapped open. The glyphs had become too painful to be ignored. He could see little but shadows in the inn's room, but his instincts screamed at him: Get up, get up now! Shaka threw off the quilt and started to rise.

A dagger plunged down, opening a line of blood along Shaka's side but missing its target. His armor and weapons were across the room, but Shaka had slept with the Spear of Bitter Mercy on the floor beneath his bed. As he fought to clear his head, Shaka rolled off the quilted bed; his hand at last caught the haft of the Spear. He could now invoke the atronach.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 12:56 AM

Falco was asleep muttering something about a giant glass of brandy. When he was awoken by a loud thud in the next room. (wich was in fact Shaka rolling off of his bed and hitting the floor.) He got up out of bed. He was unaware that it was Shaka in the next room. His fist slammed against the wall and he yelled, "Dood sir or madame would you be so kind as to keep the volume of your actions to a low rate, as there are others among you who wish for some sleep" It was only then he realized his mistake, he wasn't actually supposed to be here. And now he had alerted practically the entire inn to his presence. He hopped onto the windowsill and leaped onto the roof. From there he jumped to the ground and and hid in an alley from the presumably angry innkeep.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 01:01 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 06:47 PM)

Shaka notices something odd; his breathing is utterly soundless, despite not doing anything in particular to keep himself quiet. Then he feels the tingle of magic on him and it hits him; the dagger has a silence enchantment. A useful weapon for someone who likes to strike from the shadows.

Or, perhaps, a weapon meant for someone who wasn't confident enough in their knifework to ensure a silent kill on the first hit.

There is a faint movement, the glow of magic, and the door swings shut. A faint chuckle, grating and distainful, greets Shaka's ears, and then figure simply steps back, letting the chameleon effect disguise its position.

That's right lizard; look around, try to see me, the figure thinks. Your fancy spear can't help you now; by the time you know I'm there, I'll be inside your reach.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 01:05 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 27 2005, 06:56 PM)

Falco sees Gram and Farfhd busily wrestling with one another, while the innkeep and several others look on and laugh. Gram then, despite having had enough drink to make his speech a bit slurred, nimbly slips under Farfhd's grasping arms and catches him in a bearhug, squeezing tightly.

"Ha! Now maybe ye'll believe me ...!" he chuckles, before he missteps and slams both his head and Farfhd's into the doorway. "Oof! Well done lad; ye've fire in ye ..."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 01:06 AM

Arynel’s head snapped up as if an alarm had gone off in his brain, but he quickly shook his head and returned to his usual calm countenance. The Breton got up and headed towards The End of the World tavern.

Posted by: Aki Jun 28 2005, 01:09 AM

Reichi smirked, watching the Nords wrestle. Despite being drunk, Gram seemed to have retained some skill. Reichi sipped the Greef he held in his hand, before yawning, he noticed Arynel approaching.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 01:11 AM

Arynel paused at the door, his gaze resting on the wrestling Nords, but aside from a passing glance he paid them little head. The Breton took a seat in the back of the tavern, and though his body seemed calm, his eyes were restless.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 01:13 AM

Falco watched the two drunken nords in their friendly fight. He would never understand these nords, always fighting never much thinking. Then an idea formed. He As the innkeep seemed to be unaware of his rather large yell. Falco knew he could go back to sleep without to great a worry. He reached the room the same way he did the last time. But instead of entering the same room, he took a look inside the window of the next room. Falco was quite angry at being woken up so late and planned on robbing the person that woke him the next day. He saw Shaka holding his spear and looking around suspiciously. Falcoi didn't have any clue what Shaka was looking for. He tapped on the window and spoke, "Shaka! Shaka, my friend what are you looking for?"

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 01:55 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 27 2005, 07:13 PM)

Falcoi didn't have any clue what Shaka was looking for. He tapped on the window and spoke, "Shaka! Shaka, my friend what are you looking for?"

Shaka snapped his head to the window for a moment and tried to quiet the guide, but was still silenced by the dagger's spell. He could still summon the storm atronach, though. He sent his will through the Spear and felt the crackle of the electricity flowing through the mindless golem's limbs.

Watch my back, he commanded it mentally. The floorboards creaked as the massive atronach guarded Shaka from his blind spot. Shaka spun the Spear in an arc as he tried to prepare for further attacks from the front. He gritted his teeth at the pain from his opened side.

Who in the nine hells is this, Shaka wondered. If it were a true assassin, I'd be already dead. Must be a mage.....

Shaka could attempt something like breaking the window, but he didn't want to expose his back to the invisible assailant. He had perhaps five more minutes before the atronach would disappear.

Shaka gestured in the mudra of Night Vision and the room leaped into green clarity for the moment, but he still couldn't see the stealthed killer.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 02:03 AM

With a wave of his arms, Arynel summoned a lute, and from his place in the back of the tavern the Breton began to play a tune.

From ashes rise a foe despised
And planning for his revelry
From smoldering wreckage comes a visage
Toying with death and devilry
Like a shadow doth he come
Through windows and through doors
Enter in to take from you
What you thought no one could
But fear not your gentlemen and mer
Going on with your drunken glamour
Drink and be merry as you were
For time hath come to end the clamor

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 02:07 AM

Outside, the sound of a giant Storm Atronach tromping around upstairs attracts some attention; the innkeep growls and looks around the corner of the building, and sees Falco hanging off the wall like ... well, a lizard.

"You scaly idiot, what the hell do you think you're doing!?" the innkeep yells, causing Gram to look up - and Farfhd to land a beautiful right cross on Gram's face.

"What's going on?" Gram asks, the punch helping to clear the drink from his brain as people begin either moving toward Falco to find out what's with the foolish Argonian outside, or heading indoors and to the stairs to find out what's up with the foolish Argonian inside.

Inside, Shaka's Storm Atronach waves its fists before it, and a muttered curse indicates that Shaka's assailant walked into a stony fist. The Atronach swings at the figure but misses a second time. Shaka's brief night-eye, however, lets him see the faint distortion that moves to his left, trying to get in close as the Spear flashes past ...

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 02:13 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 27 2005, 08:03 PM)

Several of the Nords who were heading up to Shaka's room pause, looking at one another for a moment.

" ... Eh ..." mutters one, "well ... we'll just keep an ear open for anything."

Gram, meanwhile, mutters to Farfhd "Not now; something's going on," but the other Nord is too punch-drunk to notice, and Gram is forced to use a Nordic Fist to put him to sleep. Gram's swift uppercut draws an approving chuckle from the people inside, and he grins.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 27 2005, 08:07 PM)

Inside, Shaka's Storm Atronach waves its fists before it, and a muttered curse indicates that Shaka's assailant walked into a stony fist. The Atronach swings at the figure but misses a second time. Shaka's brief night-eye, however, lets him see the faint distortion that moves to his left, trying to get in close as the Spear flashes past ...

Got you, bastard, thought Shaka, and the Spear hissed to his left. One of its flanges seemed to make contact for a moment, and Shaka now saw blood on the Spear.

Shaka suddenly spun in the unpredictable circular attack of the Rain of Sand, and felt his tail crack against one of his assailant's legs, possibly breaking that limb.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 02:28 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 08:21 PM)

Shaka sees more blood a few seconds later, flowing from the patch of nothing in front of him. He can briefly make out the outline of a humanoid figure before it crashes to the floor, dropped by Shaka's tail strike.

A grating, raspy voice hisses "Filthy ..." before starting to intone a dark curse - one much like Shaka heard on Early Harvest from a dead Dunmer. However, a death gurgle cuts off the curse, and the figure fades into view, revealing a thin mer, red eyes staring sightlessly at the roof, his whole body swathed in worn robes that carry the faint charnel smell of corpses.

A glint of something shiny around the mer's neck catches Shaka's eye.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 02:34 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 27 2005, 08:28 PM)

The Atronach faded away as Shaka limped over to the dead mage. An Amulet of Shadows? he wondered in surprise. Can't be more than a handful of those in existence. My prize now, and he slipped it off the apparent necromancer's corpse.

Damn, he thought to himself and sat on the floor, pressing his hand against the wound in his side. He might still have enough energy for the Hearth Heal spell.....

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 02:38 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 06:34 PM)

The door to Shaka’s room came open and a cloaked Breton stepped inside, and then bent to his knees beside Shaka.

“I’m glad to see that’s over with,” Arynel said, a soft blue healing light forming in his hands, “I see you’ve managed to keep yourself whole, and have a new prize for the accomplishment.”

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 02:48 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 27 2005, 08:38 PM)

"Thank you, friend," Shaka answered wearily. "I thought the necromancer's tower had been cleared, but apparently not." He rested his head on the spear's upright haft for the moment. "Did this one kill any civilians or one of us tonight?"

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 02:53 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 06:48 PM)

Arynel shook his head.

"No," the Breton answered, "You were his first target, by planning or misfortune, and either way, it was his misfortune that you were the one he attacked."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 02:54 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 27 2005, 08:48 PM)

Gram and another Nord come up to Shaka's room to investigate; both quickly reach the same conclusion upon seeing the bloody dagger, the dead body, and the Argonian who looks like he just had a scuffle.

The other Nord unwraps the rags covering the mer's face, revealing a Dunmer visage; he looks up to Gram and shakes his head.

"A nameless murderer," Gram notes, picking up the dagger for a moment. "And from the smell of charnel on those robes an aspiring necromancer. One less scoundrel walking the world tonight."

He drops the dagger and gives Shaka a grin. "Well done lad; you deserve a drink, on me. Just let us clean up this trash here first."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 02:54 AM

Falco saw the whole fight. He quikly opened the window and leaped into the room. " Good evening Shaka sir! Oh and good evening to you to Arynel. What have we here? Ah a necromancer. Why would he try to kill you though? Hmmm..." Falco continued stating the obvious until the Shaka and Arynel lost interest in him. Just as Falco hoped. He quikly grabbed the knife of the necromancer. He hid it in his belt out of sight. " By now the place was crawling with the bar patrons and a rather large nord suggested Shaka be taken to healer.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 02:59 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 27 2005, 08:54 PM)

By now the place was crawling with the bar patrons and a rather large nord suggested Shaka be taken to healer.

Shaka pushed himself to his feet. "No need," he said. "Arynel has already helped me." He glanced down at the scar in his side, closed now with new flesh. The adrenaline was wearing off. It was good to have cheated death again, and in this company.

He glanced out the window, and thought he saw for a moment the shades of a woman and a man holding hands and gazing back at him before they faded. The sun was rising.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 04:43 AM

Several hours later...

It was early morning and nobody had slept a wink.The events of the night were the talk of the town. Everyone seemed to want to speak to Shaka and Falco, regarding the attack as tthey were the only ones to see the whole thing. Falco took it upon himself to tell his "version" of the events to all of the young nordic maidens of Dagon Fel whilst they crowded around him in the tavern, "...so there I was. I had been walking through town when suddenly I had a bad feeling in my stomach. I knew Shaka was in trouble. You there dear, fetch me some more brandy. Anyways as I was saying I leaped onto the buildingf from 30 no wait 40 yards away. Would you be so kind as to bring me the soup I smell. Thank you. I saw the necromancer easily clobbering my good friend Shaka here. So I leaped in saber swinging. He summoned an army of 3 no make that 4 dozen daedra. But they were no match for my blade. As I fought them off he went to finish off Shaka. So I hit him to the ground with my tail finishing the foul necromancer and unsummoning his army. Now shall I tell you all again, of course I will..." The story got more and more outrageous with eah telling until one eneded with him defeating Every Daedra prince single handedly.

Posted by: Aki Jun 28 2005, 05:09 AM

Reichi stood in the corner of the tavern. Grinning as Falco told and re-told the tale with his own embellishments. He found most of them rather amusing, and wondered how many of the maidens actiually believed the story.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 05:26 AM

Shaka had been courteous to Gram and accepted his offer of a morning brew. As they stood in the inn's pub, a boy stopped and said to Shaka: "Sir, you must be honored to be the squire to such an adventurer as Falco."

Shaka choked on the ale. Putting the tankard down, he gazed thoughtfully at the guide and his crowd. He could always use a new leather sheath for the Spear ..... He shook his head as he decided against it.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 05:29 AM

Falco approached Gram. "Gram, my good man! These ladies are under the impression I once saved you from a tribe of viscous goblins so just play along okay?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 05:34 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 27 2005, 11:29 PM)

Falco approached Gram. "Gram, my good man! These ladies are under the impression I once saved you from a tribe of viscous goblins so just play along okay?"

Nords are, as any can atest, masters of retelling heroic exploits in a manner befitting a saga; Gram himself was an expert at the art of bringing out the inherent heroism in a recounted tale, and had defended his title as epic tall tale teller with fist and alemug more than once.

However, Falco's story of how he single-handedly beat up Malacath, Sheogorath, and Sanguine while riding on Peryite and using Azura's already-defeated self as a lance had made even him hurt himself from falling out of his chair.

"Lad you've got a good tongue for telling the sagas but I think you're going a bit overboard now," he says, shaking his head. "Let's just leave it at your heroic wrestling match with Meridia in the very bowels of Quagmire and leave me a listener of your tales instead of a figure in them, okay?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 05:53 AM

Falco replied, " alright then good sir I won't tell the story of how I defeted The god Vivec in an arm wreling match. Now I don't believe the group ever mentioned where exactly we were going anyway. So if you would kindly tell me the location of our destination I would be more than happy to guide you there in a fair and economical manner."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 05:58 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 27 2005, 11:53 PM)

Several Nords were recounting Falco's recounting of Shaka's battle, over mugs of ale.

"I wouldn't mind testing that arm of yours," Gram grins. "And we're heading to Vas to find a Dunmer woman named Kethaih. You've probably heard of her if you've been around this area; lot of the other folk here have."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 06:03 AM

Falco pondered the name for a few seconds. " Ah yes Kethaih. I remeber her from a while ago. She came in here to purchase a room for the night. I tried to buy her a drink and she nearly gouged my eye out with that dagger of hers. Quite a rude woman really. I take It she did something wrong then? Well I guess We'll figure it out when we get there."

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 06:04 AM

Shaka interjected: "Gram, in all the excitement I've lost track of Slyvos. Haven't seen him since the talk around the fire last night. Does anyone know where he is?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 06:10 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 12:03 AM)

Gram's eyebrows briefly disappear behind his red bangs. "Did she now? She must not have liked that drink!" He chuckles.

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 12:04 AM)

Shaka interjected: "Gram, in all the excitement I've lost track of Slyvos. Haven't seen him since the talk around the fire last night. Does anyone know where he is?"

Gram gets a thoughtful look. "He's capable of taking care of himself," he says. "But it wouldn't hurt to look for him, now that you mention it. I shall handle it, friend."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 06:13 AM

Falco removed a few maps from his haversack. He placed them on a table, "Now if you'll excuse me gentlemen, I have an expedition to plan."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 28 2005, 06:19 AM

In the corner of the End of the World sat a Breton who had observed the proceedings silently, with a wave of the Breton’s arms a lute appeared, and a song came to go with.

Marriage bound the deed so grand
Heir to her lover’s estate
Is claimed by one who comes to haunt
It is not rightfully her's to take
In one months time so goes the bind
There will come a flood
To wash away all city sounds
So we go an heir to seek
To cordially greet and talk
Devise a plan a brokered deal
To undo undue omens come

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 06:37 AM

Gram leaves Falco to his planning; this would be a good way to see how good the talkative Argonian really was, and they had time still to get to Vas should this plan of Falco's turn out sour.

It was strange; he had vowed never to set foot in the land of ashen-skinned devils and giant bugs, yet here he was, actually looking forward to seeing some of the strange sights he had heard tales about. Well, he never figured his daughter would become a noblewoman in these lands either, but it happened and if one ignored the heat of Morrowind and learned not to mind bugs and accepted that most everyone had gravely voices and similar dispositions then the land of the Dark Elves was a pretty interesting place to explore.

Gram wonders if they'll see any of those mushrooms that grow as big as towers.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 06:49 AM

After about an hour Falco approached Gram. " Gram my good man! I know of a way to reach Vas. It is on an Island you see. West of here. Thus a boat is rewquired to reach said destination. It just so happens I know a few people who have a boat West of here. I'm sure we could use my aquaintences' boat. It is big enough to hold all of us." Now I have planned the overland route also. It should take no more than two days of walking to get there. And since you are the strongest among the group I'm sure you could carry supplies. According to my calculations If worst comes to worst it will only take a week to get there conduct our buisness there. Now you will need to purchase said supplies. Well what are you waiting for? Hop to it!"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 06:55 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 12:49 AM)

Gram looks at Falco with a mild expression that makes a couple of the other Nords shift their seats away from the two slightly.

"A boat sounds like a good idea," he says, standing up. "Though if my memory serves we discussed hiring you as a guide and not as an overseer. 'Hop to it'? You grow too excited, friend; perhaps you should calm down, relax a bit.."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 28 2005, 07:02 AM

Falco smiled " Well I'm sorry for my attitude good fello. Its just that I'm eager to adventure again. Been awhile you know? But the point is we will need about a week worth of food. I'd suggest dried or salted guar meat and a barrel or two of fresh water."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 28 2005, 07:07 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 01:02 AM)

Gram claps Falco's shoulder in the friendly style Nods do so well - warm-hearted and bone-rattling all in one.

"Good to hear you thirst for adventure!" he rumbles. "Let's go see what we can find for provisions then - and while we're at it I'll look for our Khajiit friend."

He liked this Argonian; it would be a shame to have to punch his lights out. So few Argonians knew the difference between a friendly punch meant just to tell you you're being a fool and an actual punch reserved for someone who you can't stand.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 28 2005, 06:23 PM

OOC|Name: Isidor
Race: Nord
Sex: Male
Hair: Long Blonde
Tattoos: A red mark on his arm, marking disgrace.
Age: 30
Backstory: A mysterious Nord who lives in a shack on the island of Dagon Fel, just north of the town.
Weapons: Huntsman Axe, Wolf Armor|OOC

Isidor stood atop a lonely hill, looking down on the small town of Dagon Fel. The tavern was busy tonight, unusually busy. The feelings of isolation that Isidor felt doubled as he saw patrons enter the bar with their friends. It had been years since Isidior had sat in a bar, and he missed it. Cursing under his breath, he returned to his shack, where his wolf, Loki, lay, asleep.

Posted by: syronj Jun 28 2005, 08:38 PM

In the morning, Shaka had decided to tag along for the supply run. His breath showed in the crisp air of the fishing village. Pulling on his travel cloak, Shaka noticed a tall Nord next to his hut, perched precariously on a slope above the town.

The Nord didn't seem willing to approach the adventurers the way others had this morning. And was that a wolf next to him? Shaka finally turned away from the mystery and followed Gram, Falco, and others.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 01:34 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 02:38 PM)

Isidor had come out early the next morning, to watch the day's events. A nord, some bretons and other figures, Isidor could not make out. He wanted to go, to speak to them, but he was frightened. He returned to his shack. It was Loki's feeding time.

Maybe another time.....

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 01:40 AM

The town went about its usual events. The fishermen went out with their nets. Their wives took care of the household. The storeowners sold their goods. The drunks had their drinks. But the adventurers were very busy. They scurried about the town getting supplies for the next leg of theri journey. Falco had s tolen the innkeep's purse of gole. He was now using it to buy himself plenty of drinks. The usual.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 01:54 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 07:40 PM)

Isidor gathered his supplies. His dried meats, his loaves of bread and his weapons and armor. He looked and Loki and said "We travel together, friend." The wolf nodded and rose to his feet. Together they left the shack. As they walked out, Isidor cast a firebite spell on his shack, his prison. As he walked out, he saw an Argonian entering the bar. He quickened his pace and yelled "You, lizard, wait." These were the first words he had spoken to another human since his exile, ten long years ago.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 01:58 AM

Falco urned to see Isidor. " Good sir I am an argonian not a Lizard. You wouldn't like me to call you an ape. So in the future reference to argonians by their proper titles would be much obliged. Now what is it you want, as I am on an important ques?

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 02:05 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 07:58 PM)

Isidor was intrigued by what the Argonian said "What quest do you go on, "Argonian"?.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 02:08 AM

Falco wwas quite surprised by the nord. He honestly didn't seem to know what an argonian was. " Sir, I am Falco Redflash. I am wrking as a guide for a group of adventurers who wish to find a certain assassin. May I be so bold as to inquire the identity of the nord to who I am speaking?"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 02:19 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 08:08 PM)

"My name is Isidor. My history is not important. I travel light, with only my wolf as company, I would not be a hinderence."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 02:23 AM

Falco replied, " I don't doubt that friend. But You see I am not in charge of said expedition. And thus me acquiring a new member would be unprofessional. However I am sure that I could refer you to an older member of the group. Perhaps then your desire for an occupation would be fulfilled." Falco saw Shaka carrying a large sack of dried meats. " Shaka good man! It would seem another wishes to join our little group."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 02:28 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 08:19 PM)

"My name is Isidor. My history is not important. I travel light, with only my wolf as company, I would not be a hinderence."

Shaka watched members of the party bargain with the merchants for supplies. Seeing townspeople point north and mutter among themselves, the battlemage glanced back and saw the shack burning on the hillside like a beacon.

He was just in time to see the roof collapse, the sound muffled by distance. Shaka asked a nearby trader whose shack had that been. The local only shook his head and said, "Good riddance to that one. Kept to himself for years, he did. Some Nord," the Imperial added.

Shaka started back for the inn.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 02:35 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 08:23 PM)

Falco saw Shaka carrying a large sack of dried meats. " Shaka good man! It would seem another wishes to join our little group."

Shaka drew near and recognized the Nord from before. He could see the man was armored under his robe; was that the color of Solstheim Wolf armor on his arms? Shaka had briefly visited Solstheim but was less familiar with the Nordic armor of that land than that of Vvardenfell.

Another adventurer, he thought with some disbelief. Are we searching for the heir or raising an army? Nonetheless, he owed it to volunteers not to dismiss them out of hand.

Shaka shook the Nord's hand and, glancing a little warily at the large wolf, said: "I would like to consult with Gram before making a decision. As the Lady's father and one of the elders of this group, I owe him that much.

Can you tell me something of yourself, sir?" he asked.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 02:42 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 08:35 PM)

"I am an exile of Skyrim, that is all you need to know." Isidor followed the nord's gaze, where it rested on Loki "You need not be afraid of him, he's as harmless as a newborn Guar." He let out a deep laugh, his first since had struck down that man, so many years ago.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 02:50 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 08:42 PM)

"I am an exile of Skyrim, that is all you need to know." Isidor followed the Argonian's gaze, where it rested on Loki. "You need not be afraid of him, he's as harmless as a newborn Guar." He let out a deep laugh, his first since had struck down that man, so many years ago.

Shaka smiled. "That's good to hear. At least he's not a werewolf, since it's daylight. You must think we're a party of Argonians only, judging by Falco here and me, but you'll find we're a mixed bunch of Nords, Bretons, and Dunmer as well." Also Khajiit, he mentally added.

The battlemage put down the sack for a moment. "I can see you've burned your bridges behind you. Let us get back to you today with our decision."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 02:57 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 08:50 PM)

Shaka smiled. "That's good to hear. At least he's not a werewolf, since it's noontime. You must think we're a party of Argonians only, judging by Falco here and me, but you'll find we're a mixed bunch of Nords, Bretons, and Dunmer as well."

The battlemage put down the sack for a moment. "I can see you've burned your bridges behind you. Let us get back to you today with our decision."

"Very well. I will be in the bar, enjoying my first drink in quite a while." Isidor bowed and walked towards the bar.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 06:57 PM)

"Very well. I will be in the bar, enjoying my first drink in quite a while." Isidor bowed and walked towards the bar.

If he so happened to glance towards the back of the bar, Isidor would see a cloaked Breton, seated and staring at him as he entered.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 04:04 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 09:55 PM)

If he so happened to glance towards the back of the bar, Isidor would see a cloaked Breton, seated and staring at him as he entered.

As Isidor entered the bar, he noticed a Breton sitting in the corner, tuning a lute. "Hail Breton, what news do you bring from High Rock."

OOC: I'm being ignorant, deliberately.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 04:10 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 08:04 PM)

As Isidor entered the bar, he noticed a Breton sitting in the corner, tuning a lute. "Hail Breton, what news do you bring from High Rock."
OOC: I'm being ignorant, deliberately.

“News from High Rock?” The Breton pondered aloud, “It is as it always has been; a cauldron of warring factions joined by name and the fist of an Emperor, perhaps some of its present citizenry would remember well the Emperors of old. Tell me, how does the path greet you?”

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 04:46 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 10:10 PM)

"The path?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 04:48 AM

Several Nords, seeing the newcomer and his mark on his arm, gave him a wide berth, muttering under their breaths.

Gram comes into the tavern, having spent a good amount of time getting supplies ready and looking for Slyvos, with no success.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 04:51 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 08:46 PM)

"The path?"

"It is a saying," the Breton answered, "It renders as 'how are you?' or something like it, though it may perhaps have other meanings."

The figure paused, and then spoke again.

"I am called Arynel, what are you called?"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 04:53 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 10:51 PM)

"My name? It is a name that was given to me, after my exile. It is Isidor. My original name is...."

At that point, Isidor was cut off as a large Nord with red hair entered the bar.

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 28 2005, 10:48 PM)

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 04:56 AM

Shaka was in his room upstairs, having helped to divide the supplies among the various adventurers' packs. He locked the door and walked down to the pub section, his talons clicking on the hardwood.

Seeing Arynel was speaking with Isidor, Shaka thought: Still waters run deep with that mage. I will value his and Gram's judgement on this new Nord. He frowned at the sidelong glances the other patrons were giving Isidor. At least no one had challenged the Nord outright.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 05:00 AM

Falco had slipped already in and out of the storeroom. He carried two brandies in his hands, and smiled his usual flamboyant smile. He tossed one brandy to Isidor. " Friend Isidor. Take this one. You're gonna need it after you find out the hell-hool of a region our course has us traveling through. Oh and good luck, I'd like to see another new member join our little group. That way there will be someone who has as little a clue as myself." The innkeep checked his stores and then his gold purse. He was quite bewildered as to how he could have the same amount of gold in his purse as he did when the day began, yet he was still missing almost a dozen brandies. Those particular brandies Falco had "acquired" for the journey.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 05:03 AM

Gram's gaze turns to Arynel, and the new Nord speaking with him. The red mark on Isador's arm explains the muttering of the other patrons, and makes Gram raise his eyebrows.

Hearing Falco, he turns and says " ... New member join our group?" He glances at Arynel, his expresison conveying the question 'this news to you or not?'

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 05:06 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 11:00 PM)

Isidor emptied the brandy into his mead and mixed them together "A Nord Starter. My favorite drink." He took a swig and looked around the bar. Patrons looked at him, uneasy looks on all their faces () "Calm down." He grins "I haven't killed in ten years."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 05:06 AM

Falco Turned to Gram, " Why indeed good man. Isidor here wishes to join our little group. So Shaka and myself brought hiom to the rest of you for judgement."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:06 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 28 2005, 11:03 PM)

Hearing Falco, he turns and says " ... New member join our group?" He glances at Arynel, his expresison conveying the question 'this news to you or not?'

Shaka was silent as the drama unfolded before him. He had trusted Isidor so far this day, but there was something going on here that only Nords were picking up on.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 05:07 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 28 2005, 09:03 PM)

Arynel returns Gram's gaze with a look of calm.

"I let things go as they will," the Breton said, "let the wheels spin and the path unfold, pay no more heed than necessary to simple things."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:09 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 11:07 PM)

Arynel returns Gram's gaze with a look of calm.

"I let things go as they will," the Breton said, "let the wheels spin and the path unfold, pay no more heed than necessary to simple things."

Shaka at last stepped forward to take his share of any blame. "Gram, I thought I'd let you decide. The tattoo is setting people off, though. What's the significance of it?"

Posted by: Aki Jun 29 2005, 05:12 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 11:06 PM)

"I haven't in..a little while," Reichi said, relaxing in the seat he had been, quietly observing and drinking. "Maybe ten days or a few weeks. Can't be much more. I think. Wasn't much keeping track of time." The Dunmer shrugged.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 05:13 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 11:09 PM)

Shaka at last stepped forward to take his share of any blame. "Gram, I thought I'd let you decide. The tattoo is setting people off, though. What's the significance of it?"

"Killed a man," one Nord pipes up, shooting Shaka a look. "A man he ought not to have killed; that mark means he's no longer welcome in Skyrim."

"And he says it was ten years ago," Gram points out. "Ten years without killing - I hope he isn't including unlawful kills in that though or else we might have a problem taking him on a trip of high adventure!" He laughs, and a couple of the patrons laugh too, gram's humor being infectuous - or the ale being strong.

"Well now, we've become quite popular in these parts it seems; people flock to us in search of excitement," he continues, looking Isador over. "What have you been doing with yourself these past ten years? And what are you good at doing if I may ask?"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 05:16 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 28 2005, 11:13 PM)

"What kind of a men are you? Scared of a mark? I killed one man, justly. That is all I will say about it. I lived in a shack, just north of this town. I hunted at night, with my wolf, Loki. I have refined my Axe skills and can track a beast from ten miles away."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 05:17 AM

Arynel rose from his seat and indicated towards Shaka with a wave of his hand. The Breton walked to a corner away from the others and sat down. He waited.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:22 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 11:17 PM)

Arynel rose from his seat and indicated towards Shaka with a wave of his hand. The Breton walked to a corner away from the others and sat down. He waited.

Shaka unobtrusively walked over to Arynel. "What do you think so far, my friend?" Shaka said. "Somehow he doesn't seem to be an idle braggart. Perhaps he is another who has been set in our path for a purpose .... if such plans exist."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 05:24 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 09:22 PM)

Arynel nodded slowly but did not answer.

“I gather, perhaps falsely,” the Breton began, “that you are a bit unnerved at the prospect of new companions, what do you say?”

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 05:27 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 11:22 PM)

"Stop your muttering, and adress me as a man would."

OOC: Good night, all.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 05:27 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 28 2005, 11:16 PM)

The Nord who spoke to Shaka mutters "So you say ..."

"So he does say, and so none of us can prove one way or another," Gram notes. "It wouldn't be the first time a man was marked undeservedly, or a scoundrel lied to make himself sound good."

He turns to Arynel and Shaka and sives an elaborate shrug. "Why not? Even if it means we'll be taking a small parade with us to Vas."

He looks to Isador and holds out his hand. "Gram Pyrel, called Gram the Wild and hero who fought the blue-eyed devils in southern Cyrodiil. If you're willing to show yourself a man and not a criminal, I'll travel with you lad."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:30 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 11:24 PM)

Arynel nodded slowly but did not answer.

“I gather, perhaps falsely,” the Breton began, “that you are a bit unnerved at the prospect of new companions, what do you say?”

Shaka had to grin ruefully at that. "Well, I'm trying to be a little more flexible. It just seemed to me lately that, being pushed for time, we should focus on finding Kethiah, not on recruiting."

He studied the mage thoughtfully for a moment. "I take it events are flowing as they should, however. Thank you again for the healing spell yesterday."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 05:34 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 09:30 PM)

“Of course, I help when I can,” Arynel said, “though I would not claim to be an expert healer.”

“You remember, of course, that these two came to us, no recruiting was involved,” the Breton said, “As for events, they flow as they do, and I like to leave them flowing, better to steer the river in the right direction than to dam it up completely, and often better yet to leave it flowing, unless you know a better way of moving.”

He paused, "Besides, there is a reason I allow new adventurers to join us if they wish, for one, they can be quite amusing, and also-"

Arynel leaned to the side of the Argonian's head and whispered, "..."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:41 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 11:34 PM)

He paused, "Besides, there is a reason I allow new adventurers to join us if they wish, for one, they can be quite amusing, and also-"

Arynel leaned to the side of the Argonian's head and whispered, "..."

Shaka's eyes widened fractionally, and he sat back with a nod.

Standing, Shaka spoke to the company. "If Gram approves, that's good enough for us all. This company of adventurers is about second chances, I think."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 05:43 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 09:41 PM)

Arynel merely nodded.

"Let us return to the others, then," the Breton said.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 05:48 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 28 2005, 07:34 PM)

He paused, "Besides, there is a reason I allow new adventurers to join us if they wish, for one, they can be quite amusing, and also-"

Falco piped up, "...and also because of my great skill. I could porbably protect the party myself. " Falco struck a heroic pose for some of the tavern girls. " Now on to buisness. With the supplies prepared we should leave tomorrow early morning. So everyone make sure and get plenty of rest tonight. We've got a big day ahead of us."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:54 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 11:48 PM)

Hiding a grin, Shaka saluted Falco with his palm at the right side of his head. "With such a guide, we cannot fail."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 06:03 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 28 2005, 07:54 PM)

Hiding a grin, Shaka saluted Falco with his palm at the right side of his head. "With such a guide, we cannot fail."

"Falco simply smiled, and said, "Indeed! Now ladies let me tell you about the time I faced an entire tribe of orcs with my hands tied up..." He walks away bragging about his "exploits" To the tavern girls.

Posted by: S'reddit Jun 29 2005, 09:15 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 28 2005, 09:03 PM)

Dagon Fel

There was a chill in the night air as the figure in the dark cloak stepped off the boat onto the dock. She shivered, and clutched at her arm. The wound she had suffered would not heal by magicka, only time. That was the nature of the spell.

All the woman wanted to do was to go back to her home in Vas, and tend to her garden. Dagon Fel was on the way, though, and she had business.

At the End Of The World tavern, she was to meet her contact, the girl who had paid her for the job. A much tougher job that one would have expected from the simple tavern girl, but, of course, she was not. She was a necromancer and a Telvanni mage, as was the target.

The cloaked figure saw her the moment she stepped into the tavern, and then the figure saw Shaka.

At least this time, he hadn’t surprised her.

The tavern girl had been laughing at something that the other Argonian, another person she recognized, Falco, was saying. The girl, the Telvanni posing as a tavern girl, Merlys, looked in her direction, and the cloaked figure raised her hood and put her finger to her lips. Silence.

Kethiah slid up behind Shaka, and he could feel something sharp at his back.

‘Are you following me, Argonian?’ she hissed, without a hint of friendliness.

The tavernkeeper quietly stepped into the backroom. Some things he was better off not seeing.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 12:00 PM

Ald Raathim

Loranna walked through the streets of Ald Raathim, getting to know her people better and enjoying the warm, lovely summer day. The town was busy, with new building being built and old temporary buildings being refurbished, farmers hawking their crops, children running through the streets and laughing and a light breeze making the usual Morrowind heat more tolerable. The people of Daruhn smiled to see their Lady taking an interest in their wares and took the chance to bring matters to her attention.

Requests to lower taxes just a smidgen, reports of a thief who had managed to elude the guards for the past couple of weeks, sage advice from old farm hands on the matter of divvying up the land again ...

Loranna smiled and dealt with the issues as best she could, trying to be gentle but firm about things she'd already decided on. As she talked to people though, something nagged at her, a feeling of having forgotten something.

At one point, while watching some kids playing, Loranna asked an Altmer boy " ... What was today again?" The youths giggled at seeing a grown up look confused.

"It's Freddas, Lorna," the little Altmer boy said and Loranna nodded. "Ah, right; Freddas ..."

Freddas. 15th of Sun's Height.

There was a rushing sound, coming from the beach; Loranna stopped dead in her tracks.

Freddas, 15th of Sun's Height. One month after Early Harvest Festival.

People were heading to the beach, drawn to the sound; Loranna tried to shout to them to go away, to run, but her voice couldn't rise over the din.

One month after Raithmat made his promise ...

The waters of the bay crashed onto the shore and swept away the people who had gathered there; they didn't even get a chance to scream. Those in Ald Raathim did have a chance, however, and their cries of terror rung in Loranna's ears, their pleas for her to save them, to stop the encroaching waves. And Loranna cried, for what could she do? She felt rooted to the ground ...

Someone grabbed at her arm and pulled, and she heard her dress tearing, someone yelling "Harlot! You brought this upon us!" And then the waters were crashing through the streets and people were screaming and Loranna didn't know where she was anymore or what she was doing, but she was crying, or screaming, or casting ... something. But it wasn't working.

She thought she heard the voice of Raithmat again, singing softly 'You cannot take that which was not given', and then she felt the waves sweeping her away and she cried out in terror and shame ... and then something blotted out the sun, and somehow she was able to look up despite being tossed about by the waves, and she saw the giantess once more, gloriously terrible and looking down upon her.

And the gaintess whispered 'And it is only right to take back what was given' and then there was a crash, and Loranna tried to cry out but she was crushed underfoot once again, and caught in that fearful intstant once again ...

... and, as before, an instant became an eternity, only this time it was an eternity tinged with the knowledge of having failed to help her people as well as every other sensation she knew would come

===

Loranna fell out of bed, groaning; for long moments she lay gasping, trying to reinflate herself as she always did when she woke from one of her giantess nightmares. After a while, she felt capable of getting to her feet, and she got off the floor, rubbing her temples.

" ... Was that one all my making or was there something more to it?" she asked aloud, the memory of the dream vivid in her mind. A lot of it had been drawn almost wholesale from the past day or two; the early parts of the dream were almost exactly like yesterday's trip to town. It could have just been her own fears and anxieties taking shape in the back of her mind ...

... or maybe Raithmat had other ways to torment her ...

Loranna rubbed the scars on her chest, grimacing; they ached with the dull cold that had plagued her since Raithmat carved the letters into her flesh. She wondered how her friends were doing, whether they had found Kethiah by now or not. Loranna hoped Kethiah didn't mind such a large group popping in on her like that.

Well, she could check up on her father at least; she'd do so as soon as she stopped her heart from beating so hard it threatened to break out of her ribcage.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 05:51 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Jun 29 2005, 03:15 AM)

Kethiah slid up behind Shaka, and he could feel something sharp at his back.

‘Are you following me, Argonian?’ she hissed, without a hint of friendliness.

The tavernkeeper quietly stepped into the backroom. Some things he was better off not seeing.

Shaka froze for a moment in surprise. Careful not to move, he said softly: "Keth ... It's not what you think. No one's hunting you; we need your help." Few people in the tavern had noticed them, smiling as they were at Falco's antics.

He found himself praying that she would believe him. When she had been his minder for Helseth, Kethiah had been all business, never letting slip what her own background had been. For some reason, Shaka noticed a barmaid watching them .... but was that a lack of surprise on her face?

Posted by: S'reddit Jun 29 2005, 06:32 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 08:51 AM)

Shaka felt the blade move away from his back. Kethiah slipped it back into the folds of her cloak, but he knew she could draw it faster than the fastest spell.

‘You nearly fouled up my assignment in Ald Raathim,’ she said, stepping next to him, and giving a polite nod to Falco who was continuing his tale, unaware. ‘Why should I help you, old friend?’

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 06:32 PM

Isidor sat at the bar, satisfied. He may have killed a man, but that did not make him a monster, a beast. The Argonian, Fal-something, was making a fool of himself, which pleased Isidor just fine. If it made the inquisitive stares stop, a werewolf could tap dance on the bar. After all this time, Isidor had forgotten Loki, who he had left tied up outside the bar. He tossed down some gold, (which he had been hoarding for many years) and walked out of the bar. It was a crisp night, with a full moon. He breathed in deep, letting the air fill his lungs. As he gave Loki some guar meat, he thought he felt a cloak brush him, but when he drew his axe, there was nothing to hit. Unsettled, he walked back into the bar, his axe still in his hand.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 06:52 PM

QUOTE(S'reddit @ Jun 29 2005, 12:32 PM)

Shaka breathed easier and steered Kethiah into a corner of the pub. "Yes, I have to admit I was blundering around that day." He studied the lean, high-cheekboned face of the Dark Brotherhood assassin. Or was she Morag Tong as well? Did Kethiah herself know anymore, Shaka wondered.

"Kethiah, Ald Raathim needs your help ... or if that doesn't suffice, Loranna does. I think you respect her, and I've heard you were loyal to her late husband Jazbet ... ." Shaka explained briefly about the threatened flooding of Ald Raathim and the need to find Jazbet's son Seres.

"The others can explain it in more detail than I can muster," he concluded. He paused for the moment. Away from the confusing welter of smells and sounds in the main part of the pub, he could smell something on Kethiah's breath. Under the complex mix of any woman's scent -- gender, sweat, perfumed oils no matter how subtle -- he could smell injury.

"Kethiah, are you hurt? Some of our mages are skilled in healing ....."

Posted by: S'reddit Jun 29 2005, 06:53 PM

After noticing Shaka looking at her, Merlys, the bar maid, gave Falco a kiss at an appropriate pause in his tale.

'That's priceless,' she giggled. 'I hope you're around tomorrow when I'm not so tired.'

The innocent smile never leaving her face, she went off to her room, not looking in the direction of Shaka and Kethiah.

Once out of sight, her expression changed. She did not know how Kethiah knew these men, but she could not have her identity compromised. Their business transaction would have to wait until the assassin had dealt with them, however she deemed best.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 06:57 PM

Isidor was worried. What in Sovengarde had he gotten himself into? Something was afoot, something evil. He may have been skilled with armor and axes, but an assassin could kill him before he could swing it. He walked to the bar, but the barmaid was gone. Something was going on, he knew it.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 06:59 PM

Falco heard Merlys and smiled, " Too bad I won't be here tomorrow. I'll be on my way to Vas." He whispered under his breath. He then saw Shaka speaking with a cloaked figure. He approached them and saw Kethiah's face. She looked familiar to him, but he wasn't precisely sure from where. " Greeting m'lady I am Falco Redflash the magnificent. How may I be of service to one with beauty such as yours?"

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 07:03 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 12:59 PM)

Shaka winced. He thought he might be getting through to Kethiah -- but if she bolted now, or attacked this court jester, their quest would fail. Perhaps Kethiah would be more subtle than that, though.

Shaka motioned for Falco to back off.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 07:11 PM

As usual Falco was quite unaware as to what was happening around him. He saw Shaka motioning him to leave, but didn't know what he meant. "Errrr? Shaka, are you all right? Are you sick? Perhaps you should lie down."

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 07:13 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 01:11 PM)

Shaka said in a stage whisper, "She's with me, brother. You know how it is. A little privacy, eh?"

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 07:16 PM

" Oh of course Shaka." Falco went to the other end of the bar unable to shake the feeling he knew the woman from somewhere.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 07:17 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 12:52 PM)

Kethiah listened to Shaka's tale, her expression remaining constant throughout. She noted the departure of her employer without giving any sign, and picked up on the faint signs of tension from a couple of the tavern's patrons.

Shaka always did seem to attract attention to himself and those around him, she thought to herself. Like that Falco braggart; she remembered the last time they met, and having to threaten to blind him in order to get any peace.

"Thanks," she says as Shaka gets Falco to leave. "And tt's nothing for you to worry about. So Loranna sent you? I see ..."

Kethiah's expression tightened ever so slightly, her scarred lip turning into a frown. " ... Well, everyone involved is dead now so I guess there's no harm in telling," she said after a moment. "Though I'm afraid you'll not like what you hear."

She glanced around the tavern, waiting until she is sure no one else is listening, and then spoke in a low voice.

"All right; eighteen years ago Raithmat sends his daughter Seresina away to an Ashlander village, there to have her son Seres. Seres is born, Seresina pleads with her father to come back home. He lets her come back but insists the boy stay; won't have that child in his sight. She comes back and later the Ashlander village gets attacked by werewolves."

"The official story is, the werewolves were stowaways, coming down from Solstheim looking for new places to wreck havoc. The truth though, is Raithmat hired the Tong to kill his grandson. The werewolf attack was carefully orchestrated to look like a random attack by bloodthirsty monsters rather than an assasination."

"And somehow ... Seresina found out." She pauses for a brief moment.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 08:04 PM

Arynel sat silently in the back of the bar, the Breton observed the proceedings but did not intervene.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 08:14 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 02:04 PM)

Arynel sat silently in the back of the bar, the Breton observed the proceedings but did not intervene.

Isidor walked over to the Breton, who sat silentley in the corner of the bar, tuning his lute. "What do you know of our quest, Breton?"

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 08:18 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 12:14 PM)

Isidor walked over to the Breton, who sat silentley in the corner of the bar, tuning his lute. "What do you know of our quest, Breton?"

Arynel looked up at Isidor.

“Our quest,” the Breton began, “is to find someone I have never met.”

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 08:49 PM

Kethiah continues. "Seresina was always a sweet girl, but even sweet girls have their limits. She wasn't able to take out a writ on her father though, and it was too dangerous for an assasin to kill him without one - there's rules to the profession after all. But a little advice here and there is acceptable; I told Seresina to be careful about mixing two certain herbs from the castle's herb garden."

She smiles, just a little. "Maybe I ought to tell Loranna about them too; she's into alchemy I hear. Nice little herbs, make a nice little tasteless, odorless mixture that'll kill just about anything. I didn't want a sweet girl tinkering with some herbs and accidentally poisoning herself then; don't really want it now either."

"So there you have it," Kethiah says, her eyes glancing over the common room. "Raithmat died soon after, Seresina inherited his estate, she ruled it pretty well from all accounts. The rest of the story, I think Loranna knows already."

She gets a thoughtful look for a brief moment.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 08:55 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 02:18 PM)

Arynel looked up at Isidor.

“Our quest,” the Breton began, “is to find someone I have never met.”

"Well, that adds to the fun, eh Breton?" Isidor shoves Arynel, as a joke.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 08:56 PM

Falco had been pondering for several minutes now. Suddenly it hit him. The woman who Shaka was speaking to was the same Dunmer who had come through the bar a while ago. The one named Kethiah He approached Gram, " Gram it has come tomy attention that the identity of the woman over there may possibly be the one we are seeking. I implore you to take immediate action regarding the person who we seek."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 08:58 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 02:56 PM)

Isidor turned from the Breton, to see Falco and the head nord discussing something. Walking over he said "What goes on gentelmen?"

Posted by: Arynel Jun 29 2005, 08:59 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 12:55 PM)

"Well, that adds to the fun, eh Breton?" Isidor shoves Arynel, as a joke.

Arynel stares at Isidor.

"I find the whole thing quite amusing, yes," the Breton said at last as Isidor turned and walked off towards Falco and Gram.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 09:10 PM

Gram had been sitting at the tavern's counter, nursing an ale; better to save the mead for later, when the party got back from their trip. Besides, he hadn't had much luck in finding Slyvos and he usually preffered to drink ale when he needed to think while drinking.

Upon heading Falco, Gram raises his eyebrows; he had just gotten to the best part of the drink too ...

"Kethiah is here?" he asks, not loudly but not whispering either, following Falco's gaze. "Hmm, she seems to be talking with Shaka, which is more or less what I'd hoped would happen. I shall take immediate action; barkeep, bring me that mead now. My day just got a bit brighter."

Kathiah mutters to Shaka "You keep company with very loud people these days ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 09:14 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 03:10 PM)

Isidor walks over to Gram and says "What is your history? I ask this as you seem to be the leader of this expedition." While he spoke, Isidor gripped his axe, knowing that nothing was more dangerous than a drunken Nord.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 09:14 PM

Falco's hand moved to his saber " So Gram, whats the plan. Is she on our side or do we have to take her out?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 09:26 PM

Gram frowns and pushes his ale mug away. "Gentlemen, one doesn't need steel in an alehouse," he admonises.

"The plan Falco was to find her and ask about a young Dunmer named Seres; I trust Shaka is already doing that. So we might as well sit back and relax until they're done talking."

He gives Isador a small grin. "Now there's a good suggestion; let us sit and exchange tales of heroism and adventure. And for the record I thought that Nalion lad was the leader." Gram chuckles as though he just made the funniest joke in the world. "Now then, let me tell you tales of blue-eyed devils in many forms, of Khajiit Azurites and their Winged Twilight servants, and how I and our band of brave men went from being a ragtag group of fleeing refugees to the heroes that protected southern Cyrodiil's borders from the beasts."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 09:35 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 03:26 PM)

Isidor sits, his attention rapt on what the nord has to say.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 09:57 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 03:10 PM)

Kathiah mutters to Shaka "You keep company with very loud people these days ..."

Shaka's lips quirked. "Tell me about it." He sat back with a furrowed brow. "Keth, you did everyone a favor. Gods above ...... I knew Raithmat was a monster, but to take out a Tong contract on his own grandson. ....."

The Argonian leaned forward again. "But the child .... Did the werewolves succeed in killing him? Or do you know if Seresina concealed him?"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 10:05 PM

After Gram had finished speaking, Isidor rose and said "A wonderful tale, Master Gram. Someday, perhaps, I shall tell you mine." He winked and walked to the center of the room and said "Anyone intrested in a sword fight? Or axe-fight, your choice." He grinned.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 10:13 PM

Slyvos was in the tavern the entire time, his magic sustaining his invisibility easily, thanks to one of Loranna's restore magicka potions that worked so well.

He finally choose to step out into the open to get a drink, approaching the innkeep. After ordering a bit of flin he sat at a table in one of the corners, avoiding the rowdy customers...

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 10:18 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 04:13 PM)

He finally choose to step out into the open to get a drink, approaching the innkeep. After ordering a bit of flin he sat at a table in one of the corners, avoiding the rowdy customers...

Now why aren't I more surprised, wondered Shaka. At least we didn't have to journey on without Slyvos. I didn't want to explain to Loranna that we'd misplaced the regent. As an old centurion I knew used to say: Gentlemen and ladies, the strider is leaving the station. You either get on it, or I'll put you on one that you'll like a lot less.

Shaka let none of this show as he waited for Kethiah's reply. It was good to have the company together again.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 10:27 PM

Kethiah shrugs. "I wasn't part of the hit on Seres," she says to Shaka, her face softening just a little. "I heard about it after the fact, and no survivors were ever reported."

She grimaces a little. "I'm sorry; at this point, my advice to you and Loranna would be to find a way to excorsice Raithmat's spirit before he makes good on his threat."

Isidor's challenge is greeted with a few scoffs. "Fistfight's one thing but the guards aren't too keen on fights with naked steel," one patron says.

"Probably why he got that mark," another mutters into his mug.

Gram chuckles. "I wouldn't mind testing your axe skill against mine," he says, garnering a few looks from the patrons. "But I'd suggest we wait till we're outside the town itself. Or better yet, maybe we can both compete against one another in taking down some bandits - I'm sure there must be some hidden in those hills somewhere."

"Bandits and Daedra both," the tavernkeeper says. "Those no one's got a problem with you cleaving if ye need to swing your axes around."

Slyvos is served a drink, though as he drinks he swears he can hear a faint voice calling his name, coming from outside ...

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 10:33 PM

Sly moves towards the window looking out it, not knowing what to expect, just following the sound...

'great, now I'm hearing things again..

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 10:36 PM

Approached Slyvos. He had never met him before and had no idea what to expect. " Good evening, you must be the Slyvos everyone is always talking about. I am Falco Redflash, its good to finally meet you." His hand was extended to shake Slyvos's.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 10:40 PM

He looked at the man, then to his hand, and put his own out wearily, shaking it.

'hello. And yes you're right, I'm Slyvos.'

He turned his attention to where the voice came from once more...

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 10:42 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 12:40 PM)

He looked at the man, then to his hand, and put his own out wearily, shaking it.

'hello. And yes you're right, I'm Slyvos.'

He turned his attention to where the voice came from once more...

Whilst Slyvos was distracted Falco quikly switched his own empty glass with Slyvos's hal-full glass of Flin. He then walked away with his newest acquisition in hand.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 10:43 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 04:40 PM)

He looked at the man, then to his hand, and put his own out wearily, shaking it.

'hello. And yes you're right, I'm Slyvos.'

He turned his attention to where the voice came from once more...

Slyvos ... help us, please ...

Night had fallen by now; the guards outside lit their torches.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 10:44 PM

Slyvos took the cup back telekinetically, well aware of what happened. He wasn't stupid after all. He the opened the window a bit more, and leaped out, landing on his feet silently.

'who's there?'

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 10:47 PM

Falco saw Slyvos leap out of the window. What an odd thing to do. Well lets see what he's up to. Falco thought. He walked out the door slowly and casually. He didn't want it to appear he was following anyone. He slowly stalked Slyvos.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 10:57 PM

The guard who saw Slyvos jump out the window decided he really didn't need to deal with drunks forgetting to use the door and spun on his heel to go walk down the other street. In so doing, he missed the two young Nords who were standing across from Slyvos, not twenty feet away.

Had the guard noticed the youths, a young man and a younger woman, he would hav blanched; the claw marks inflicted by Winged Twilights were still distressingly visible on both their bodies, even as the light shines through them enough to prevent either from casting a shadow.

The Nordic youth with the terrible scars beckons to Slyvos, his eyes pleading.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 10:59 PM

Slyvos immediately knows what these apperitions are, but not who...

'who are you? cause whoever you are... you aren't alive...'

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 11:04 PM

Falco's eyes shot wide open when he saw the two nords. He was at first disgusted, then intrigued. Perhaps coming here will pay off.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 11:07 PM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 04:59 PM)

Slyvos immediately knows what these apperitions are, but not who...

'who are you? cause whoever you are... you aren't alive...'

Souls who need your help, the young girl says, staring upward into the night sky.

We are Helvig and Freya, the young man replies to Slyvos. We have watched you these past few nights and saw what you did to the tower of the necromancer. We would ask you to help us, kind sir.

Our mother, Freya says, pointing northward. The demon took her that way ...

The blue-eyed ones came and tore through the town, Helvig explains. We tried to take our mother to safety; the winged terrors snatched her from our arms and carried her off, tearing us apart as we watched ...

None of us can rest but we cannot find her anywhere, Freya says, her eyes glistening with intangible tears. We saw her plummet before our bodies expired; there was no way she could have lived - yet nowhere can we find her in the lands of the dead ...

Some shades have spoken of a man who has crossed from life to death and then back again, Helvig says, looking at Slyvos earnestly. Whatever holds our mother's soul, it must be terrible and dangerous; only someone like you could hope to find and free her ...

Please sir, find our mother's spirit and release her from whatever holds her from the lands of the dead; let us all go in peace to our final reward.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 11:11 PM

He looks at the ghosts sadly, thinking for a moment.

that's sad... alright, they've done nothing wrong.

'alright, I'll help you. Might take a while though, hope you spirits can wait alittle while longer...'

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 11:12 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 04:27 PM)

"If it were that easy to exorcise the bastard, Loranna would have done it before now," said Shaka. "I can't go back to the Lady until we've checked out all possibilities." He clenched his claws for a moment. "Kethiah, you've been more than helpful. I need to ask Nalion, Gram and the others what to do next. Personally, I think we still need to check out the village Seresina was exiled to."

He glanced over at Slyvos as the Khajiit jumped out the window.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 11:17 PM

"I don't think it even exists anymore," Kethiah admits, frowning. " ... Was that one of yours who just jumped out the window?"

Gram, having noticed Slyvos, briefly smells his ale to make sure it hasn't gone bad.

Helvig and Freya look thankful. We shall wait, Helvig promises. We could not see clearly where the Twilight dropped her, but it was no more than a mile or two off; she fell somewhere on this island, I'm sure of it.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 29 2005, 11:21 PM

He sighs, and bows a bit.

'I'll do my best. Now... better start looking...'

He became invisible again, his spells taking effect again.

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 11:26 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 05:17 PM)

"I don't think it even exists anymore," Kethiah admits, frowning. " ... Was that one of yours who just jumped out the window?"

"That was Slyvos himself, the regent," replied Shaka, getting to his feet. "Sorry, Keth, I'm curious to find out what's going on."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 11:27 PM

Isidor nodded at Gram's statement and left the bar. He saw a khajiit talking to what seemed to be young Nords. Not trusting his eyes, he went over to Loki and said "Ya being a good boy?" The Wolf howled. "Ah. Ya wanna go hunting, eh?" The wolf howled again. "I'll be right back, boy." Isidor went back into the bar and looked for someone to hunt with him. Maybe Falco....

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 11:30 PM

Falco reentered the bar. He chose not to tell the others what he saw. He didn't hear what was said but he could tell something important had happened.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 11:39 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 05:30 PM)

Falco reentered the bar. He chose not to tell the others what he saw. He didn't hear what was said but he could tell something important had happened.

"Hey, Falco. You intrested in going hunting? It's a full moon and Loki's hungry." He laughed and said "Don't worry, I'll protect you."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 11:41 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 05:26 PM)

"That was Slyvos himself, the regent," replied Shaka, getting to his feet. "Sorry, Keth, I'm curious to find out what's going on."

Shaka shows up outside in time to see both Slyvos and the two Nord ghosts fade from sight.

When Shaka returns to the bar, Kethiah is gone, a note left for him:

-S-

You are good company, but company is an inconveninece when you're on business, you understand. Don't take it personally.

Tell Loranna I'll ask around and see what, if anything, I can do. I still have some connections. No promises though, and if I do find something out, I'll find you this time.

One of these days, when I'm not on business, maybe we can sit down over a greef and talk. Until then, stay well.

-K-

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 29 2005, 11:42 PM

Falco needed something to keep himself busy, so he wouldn't have to think of those horribly mutilated children. "Sure thing"

Posted by: syronj Jun 29 2005, 11:48 PM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 05:41 PM)

Shaka shows up outside in time to see both Slyvos and the two Nord ghosts fade from sight.

When Shaka returns to the bar, Kethiah is gone, a note left for him.

Shaka smiled and put the note in a pocket. He should have known Kethiah hadn't come to Dagon Fel just to question the party. He wouldn't mind talking with Kethiah about something other than life and death business. Maybe she could advise him about building a koi pond someday, if he ever settled down in Ald Raathim. Now where did that thought hail from... No, he looked on Kethiah as a friend.

Those spectres ... they were the same Nords he had seen the other night. Time to talk with the others.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 29 2005, 11:49 PM

Ald Raathim

Loranna finished her business with Kallen for that day, feeling tired but happy. Her dream, though still vivid in her mind, had ceased to make her heart pound and she had spent the day making arrangements for a new school to be built in Ald Raathim. Talking with her people and trying to balance the land needs of the older residents with the newcomers made her realize the need for Daruhn to start diversifying more; there wasn't room enough for everyone to be a successful farmer ...

She had plans in mind for trying to attract more artisans to Ald Raathim as well to further develop the town into a viable place for all these people, but those would wait till later. It was past lunch but not yet time for dinner, and Loranna felt thirsty, so she made her way to the tavern, greeting people as she went.

One person caught her eye; someone in a full brown robe, hood drawn up over their head. Loranna frowned, wondering who this person might be, when said person answered her question for her.

"You are the Lady of Ald Raathim, yes?" a thin, Khajiit voice asked, sinewy hands grasping at Loranna's arms. "Please, don't let them take poor R'shasha; help me Lady ..."

"Uh, hi," Loranna said, noting the glint of slave bracers on the Khajiit's arms, hidden by the sleeves of his robe. "Yes, I'm the Lady of Daruhn ..."

"Please!" R'shasha clung to Loranna as though she were the only rock in a maelstrom. "R'shasha can't go back; they'll skin R'shasha alive. No more whips, no more beatings; Lady of Ald Raathim freed the slaves in Suran, everyone says. Free me, R'shasha begs of you ..."

By now R'shasha had attracted notice and a guard comes to pull him off of Loranna. "Back, villian! Leave the Lady be ..."

"No!" R'shasha struggled against the guard. "Don't let them take R'shasha back!" His robe ripped and he lashed out wildly.

"Let him go!" Loranna commanded, staring at the guard. The guard blinked and R'shasha tore himself free, clutching at Loranna's dress.

R'shasha looked into Loranna's eyes imploringly; Loranna gave him her most reassuring smile. "You've come seeking aid and I will give it," she prmoises him.

R'shasha fell to his knees, crying. "Oh, R'shasha is so happy! He will be free!" Then he he noticed he just ripped Loranna's dress and nearly faints.

"Scoundrel!" the guard swore, about to kick R'shasha for rending Loranna's dress - and he and several other onlookers could see the tops of the scars on Loranna's chest, not all of them but enough to figure out what they spelt.

Loranna cleared her throat, pulling her dress together as best she could and using an illusion spell to cover the rest, but she could already hear the whispers start about the word HARLOT carved into her chest. "R'shasha dear, please get up," she says, kneeling down to help the Khajiit recover.

"I'll pay your former master for you and help you find paying work here in Ald Raathim," she tells the Khajiit. "Let's get those bracers off your arms."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 29 2005, 11:53 PM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 05:42 PM)

Falco needed something to keep himself busy, so he wouldn't have to think of those horribly mutilated children. "Sure thing"

"Grab your sword, and meet me outside in five minutes. Travel light. We hunt Guar and Daedra, if we're lucky."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:00 AM

falco merely stepped outside with his blade at his side. " Isidor, good man I have everything I need. However my blade is made of steel and carries no enchantments thus hunting daedra is out of the question."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:06 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:00 PM)

"Ah. Well, we'll see what we can get, eh?"

He untied Loki and said "Go ahead, boy." The Wolf darted foward, his eyes lit up.

Posted by: Arynel Jun 30 2005, 12:07 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 04:06 PM)

"Ah. Well, we'll see what we can get, eh?"
He untied Loki and said "Go ahead, boy." The Wolf darted foward, his eyes lit up.

A cloaked Breton stepped out of the shadows.

“Surely together you could gather enough gold to pay for an enchanted blade,” Arynel suggested, casting a quick glance towards Loki.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:13 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 06:07 PM)

A cloaked Breton stepped out of the shadows.

“Surely together you could gather enough gold to pay for an enchanted blade,” Arynel suggested, casting a quick glance towards Loki.

"It's more of a challenge to fight with raw swords. And where in this godsforsaken town would we find an enchanter?"

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 12:13 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 06:07 PM)

A cloaked Breton stepped out of the shadows.

“Surely together you could gather enough gold to pay for an enchanted blade,” Arynel suggested, casting a quick glance towards Loki.

Shaka ran out the tavern's door. "Arynel, Slyvos has disappeared again and there were some unfortunate revenants near him. I need to talk to you and Gram about Kethiah's information, but ... what's going on with Sly?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 12:14 AM

Outside Dagon Fel

Helvig's directions were rather vague, and months had passed since the Twilights had attacked. It was doubtful that the ghost's mother remained to be found; surely wild beasts if nothing else would have gotten to it by now?

Yet, he at least had a direction and a rough idea of how far to go. He could fly swiflty and cover a fair bit of ground, and his magic let him see in the dark as clearly as if the land were bathed in bright sunlight.

After about an hour of scouring the area north of Dagon Fel, Slyvos notices something odd; an odd sensation that tickles his magically-attuned senses whenever he passes by a certain hill. There is something unsettling about the faint sensation he picks up.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 12:17 AM

He turns towards the hill, raising an eyebrow.

'interesting... maybe I'll check it out this time.'

He moved towards the hill, getting near the top of it, not knowing what exactly to expect...

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:17 AM

Falco motioned for Isidor to follow. " Isidor it has come to my attention via scent that the best hunting grounds are just West of here."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:19 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:17 PM)

Falco motioned for Isidor to follow. " Isidor it has come to my attention via scent that the best hunting grounds are just north of here." In actual fact Falco had smelled Slyvos ead north, but wasn't yet ready to divule that knowledge.

Isidor laughed and said "I've lived on this damn rock for ten years, I know where the hunting is good. All the way at the tip of the island, Guar and Alit roam wild. Maybe even a few wolves."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 30 2005, 12:21 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 04:13 PM)

“A challenge it may be,” Arynel said to Isidor, “but also foolish, a nail is of little use without a proper hammer.”

The Breton turned to Shaka. “Slyvos is what is his, tell me what you know.”

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:25 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 06:21 PM)

"Breton, before we leave, where could we find some enchanted swords? Just in case?"

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 12:27 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 06:21 PM)

The Breton turned to Shaka. “Slyvos is what is his, tell me what you know.”

Shaka quickly recounted to Arynel what the Dark Brotherhood assassin had told him, and that Seresina had indeed killed Raithmat. "I don't want to give up on finding Seres, though," he concluded. "Could Seresina have faked her son's death?"

Posted by: Arynel Jun 30 2005, 12:27 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 04:25 PM)

"Breton, before we leave, where could we find some enchanted swords? Just in case?"

Arynel presented a glass shortblade, glowing red with a fiery enchantment.

"Here," the Breton said, "Take it, and good luck."

Posted by: Arynel Jun 30 2005, 12:30 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 04:27 PM)

Arynel listened intently to Shaka before speaking.

"Unfortunatly," the Breton began, "I know very little of Raithmat, Seres, or any of these goings on. Seresina may have faked her son's death, I do not know. In any case, we must gather all the pieces we can find at this place, and look for the rest of the puzzle wherever we find ourselves."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:31 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jun 29 2005, 06:27 PM)

Arynel presented a glass shortblade, glowing red with a fiery enchantment.

"Here," the Breton said, "Take it, and good luck."

"Many thanks, good Breton." Isidor pulled out his sword and said "A nordic custom. You give me a present, I give you one. Now, Falco, let's go, Loki's already gone far ahead."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 12:31 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 06:17 PM)

He turns towards the hill, raising an eyebrow.

'interesting... maybe I'll check it out this time.'

He moved towards the hill, getting near the top of it, not knowing what exactly to expect...

Outside Dagon Fel, North

Slyvos's senses lead him to a small cave; multiple animal tracks and a few pieces of carrion suggest that something was left outside the cave mouth to rot some time ago.

The unsettling sensation intensifies, noticably emenating from the cave. The sensation feels familiar to the former lich and necromancer, though not totally - but he sees faint sigils carved into the cave mouth that definitely suggest that entering is not healthy for the soul.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 12:33 AM

He looks at the symbols, observing them carefully. His eyes widened a bit.

'why is it ALWAYS necromancers?!'

He'd survived worse then what this could do to him though, and proceeded in, trying to ignore the sheer uneasy of being in this place...

Posted by: Arynel Jun 30 2005, 12:33 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 04:31 PM)

"Many thanks, good Breton." Isidor pulled out his sword and said "A nordic custom. You give me a present, I give you one. Now, Falco, let's go, Loki's already gone far ahead."

Arynel took the gift and eyed it for a moment, and then the Breton hid it away in his cloak.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:36 AM

Falco and Isidor took off to the west. They attempted to sprint to keep up with Loki.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:41 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:36 PM)

Falco and Isidor took off to the west. They attempted to sprint to keep up with Loki.

As they ran, Isidor felt his instincts come back to him. He had hunted when he was isolated, but he didn't get the same thrill as when hunting with a companion. When they reached the top of the hill, Isidor heard a Guar, mewing and chomping. "There, Falco, a guar. Draw your sword, let's go."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:44 AM

Falco fell to the ground out of breath. " You must be crazy. I'll never get how a nord can sprint for that long and then still have enough breath to kill something. Now if you would be so kind as to help up a poor argonian who is driven on by a most cruel slave driving nord evn when he can't take another step I would be very grateful."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:46 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:44 PM)

Isidor laughed and said "Fine." He helped Falco to his feet and said "I'll let you have this one, good luck."

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 12:46 AM

Seeing their company of adventurers was divided, Shaka stood for the moment and waited. The Spear of Bitter Mercy was slung across his shoulders, and he rested his arms atop it for now. He could hear a wolf howling faintly in the distance; probably Loki giving chase, he thought. Shaka could attempt to track Slyvos, but it seemed better to wait for now with Arynel and others.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:49 AM

Falco stood, " Now Isidor why don't you walk around the other side of the road and cut off its escape. I'll just wait here. Then charge at it screaming my bloody head off. It'll be scared right into your axe."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 12:51 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 06:33 PM)

Upon entering, Slyvos feels a wave of dizziness come over him; he can hear chanting within.

About ten meters in, the cave opens into a modest-sized cavern, about as big as the tavern's common room though with a higher ceiling. Several things catch Slyvos's eye.

There is the table with the expected magical paraphenelia covering it, kept neat and tidy.

There is a glowing cylinder with bright green mist rolling within; the unsettling sensation seems concentrated in that part of the cave.

There is a man-sized statue of a devilish-looking figure with a draconic head and an imperious stance, arms and legs spread wide.

There are several Daedroth with glistening black scales sitting on their haunches, eying Slyvos hungrily and making rumbling sounds that might be laughter.

And finally, ther eis the surprisingly handsome Imperial man, wearing long black robes inscribed with mystical sigils, and holding a most wicked-looking mace in one hand. He is smiling.

"Welcome to my humble shrine," he says, twirling the mace in his hand. "You will be a fine addition to the slaves who serve the master - whether you do so while still in your flesh or out of it."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 12:56 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:49 PM)

"Don't be scared, Falco. It's a guar. Just poke it in the back of the neck with a sword and it'll collapse." Isidor laughed

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 12:58 AM

'Without my flesh? Ha, been there done that for about, oh say, 4000 years? Heh, I think I'll just burn you to ash now and save myself the trouble.'

For some reason he felt... different.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 12:59 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 02:56 PM)

"Don't be scared, Falco. It's a guar. Just poke it in the back of the neck with a sword and it'll collapse." Isidor laughed

Falco grumbled something that sounded very much like "Showoffy Nords". But then he composed himself. " If its so easy go kill it yourself then"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 01:03 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 06:59 PM)

Falco grumbled something that sounded very much like "Showoffy Nords". But then he composed himself. " If its so easy go kill it yourself then"

Isidor smiled and pushed Falco foward, sending him tumbling down the hill.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 01:04 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 06:58 PM)

'Without my flesh? Ha, been there done that for about, oh say, 4000 years? Heh, I think I'll just burn you to ash now and save myself the trouble.'

For some reason he felt... different.

The Imperial raises his hand and casts a spell, imbuing the four black-scaled Daedroth with magical protection. He looks mildly impressed.

"Ah, so you are the one they whisper about - the lich who found the secret to becoming mortal again," he says as the Daedroth snarl and leap to the attack. "Hunting your former brothers in the dark arts now, are you? Or does some other happy accident bring you to me this day?"

He laughs. "How fortunate! You are already familiar with existing for eternity, so you will not go mad from the endless ages of toil you shall endure. I shall enjoy breaking you and collaring you, my formerly undead friend. I can only dream at the secrets you will whisper to me in exchange for a bit of relief from your labor ..."

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 01:06 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 06:56 PM)

"Don't be scared, Falco. It's a guar. Just poke it in the back of the neck with a sword and it'll collapse." Isidor laughed

Shaka finally decided to join Falco and Isidor, as much to keep track of them as for the hunt itself. It was a perfect night for it, the constellations strewn across the skies. He dropped the cloak and took off at a run, following Loki's howls.

Shaka's speed and agility were more than human, following the Argonian nature. He enjoyed the feel of the soil beneath his taloned feet. He had unsheathed the Spear and tied the ash vampire skin across one shoulder. The Spear, as ever, flickered so that one moment, he seemed to be empty-handed and at other moments, only the Spear could be seen, not the Argonian. Bitter Mercy was outside of Time as mortals experienced it.

He could hear Isidore and Falco now, practically smell them and the prey.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 01:09 AM

Falco hit the base of the hill and stopped rolling. He stood up with anger in his eyes. His next words showed none of his usually controlled composure. The words could have made the saltiest of sailors blush. ( Hence me not putting them in writing) His yelling scared the guar off. "SEE WHAT YOU DID NOW!"

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 01:15 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 07:09 PM)

Isidor went down the hill after Falco and said "We can catch him, that's the whole point." Ignoring the Argonians string of curses and attacks on members of his family, Isidor sprinted foward, after the fleeing Guar.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 01:18 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jun 29 2005, 06:04 PM)

Slyvos just laughed right at the fool, then without warning casting one of his custom fire spells at the things, weakening them to the flame and burning them with it potently at the same time. One of them went down after 10 seconds of burning, the other hurt just a bit.

'hmm... 3 against one, not counting the weakling. hmm.. I like these odds.'

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 01:24 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 07:18 PM)

"I'm glad you like them," the Imperial laughs, the remaining Daedroth regrouping and moving to surround Slyvos. He waves his free hand and Bound armor appears on his body; Slyvos will note the green mist in the cylinder seems to become more pronounced in its rolling, writhing undulations.

Sharp teeth flash in the inconstant light of the cave; reptillian maws snap at Slyvos's limbs, seeking to hold him still. One Daedroth casts a poison spell at close range, his scales still shining with the Imperial's spell.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 01:25 AM

Slyvos growled a bit, grabbing one of the Daedroth by the arm and using one of his powerful touch-fire spells.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 01:29 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 07:25 PM)

Slyvos growled a bit, grabbing one of the Daedroth by the arm and using one of his powerful touch-fire spells.

The Daedroth tries to shake Slyvos off, to no avail - but then Slyvos discovers what spell the Imperial had cast on his servants when the fight began.

It had been a Reflection spell ...

The other two Daedroth back off a bit as the fire blazes brightly - albiet on the wrong target.

The Imperial laughs once more, enjoying the sight of Slyvos being burned by his own magic. The vestiges of humanity in his voice fade away as he laughs, and he raises the Mace high.

"You do not know how to use your magicka - you do not deserve magicka to cast spells with!" he roars, swinging at Slyvos with a viscous backhand blow to the face.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 01:39 AM

Slyvos felt the magicka being drained from him, but it was being restored at a moderate speed by Loranna's potion he had taken earlier...

'oh, so you aren't just a little weakling are you? hmm... I think I'll just kill you and leave your rended corpse hanging from a building in Dagon Fel...'

He casted a singularly targetted version of the God's Fire spell right at the necromancer at point blank, hitting him square in the face with it.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 01:42 AM

Falco took off after Isidor. He had just discovered he had cracked a tooth in the fall. The vain argonian couldn't stand to see a blemish on his "perfect" physique. He wished to inflict severe pain into Isidor using his tail.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 01:51 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 07:42 PM)

Isidor raced ahead, the wind blowing briskly through his hair. The Argonian ran after him, still swearing. "Keep up, cold-blood." The Guar had stopped to get some water from a pond. "Get him this time" Isidor yelled back.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 01:56 AM

Falco reached Isidor and lunged for the big nord. But in his enraged state he missed Isidor and landed on the guar, wich began bucking him off. The guar ran every wich way leaping, rolling, screeching, and scratching trying to get Falco off, who was holding on for dear life. Finally Falco managed to pull out his saber. He thrust into its brain. This killed the beast instantly. Falco stood up brushed himself off and spoke, "Isidorr! Friend lets keep this little... incident from the others. Okay?

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 01:59 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 07:56 PM)

Isidor laughed and said "Don't worry, little buddy. But, when you come on a hunt, expect to hunt. Now, let's move west, there should be some Clanfear this time of year."

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 07:39 PM)

God's Fire was one of the most powerful fire spells that most mages would ever hope to use in their lifetime; tales of how legendary mages managed to take down even Fire Atronachs with sufficiently powerful versions of the spell were told to aspiring initiates in the Guild, as an example of how magicka can overcome any limits.

The Imperial had protections against fire; the wise mage always did. Still, the sheer power of Slyvos's spell sears his flesh, and prevents him from screaming - his lips had melted together.

Then, the mist in the cylinder surges and the Imperial glows with a green light, and Slyvos can see the cylinder start to dim - but the Imperial staggers back to his feet, looking like a charred corpse but still alive.

" ... Tear the FLESH from his LImbs ..." he hisses to the remaining Daedroth, an unearthly cry echoing deep in his burnt chest as he flails wildly with the Mace. "Foolish LICH, your soul shall be my STrEngTH in but a moment!"

A hideous chant fills the air, seeming to come both from the half-melted skull of the Imperial and the statue of Molag Bal; Slyvos feels a powerful ritual being enacted, one whose purpose he can guess.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 03:59 PM)

Isidor laughed and said "Don't worry, little buddy. But, when you come on a hunt, expect to hunt. Now, let's move west, there should be some Clanfear this time of year."

" While I may be smaller than you in stature, I am not your little buddy. Please refrain from using such terms as that one. Now shouldn't we take care of this guar before continuing the h- Get down Isidor! Someone is watching us from atop that ridge to our left."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 02:05 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:03 PM)

Isidor was about to reply with a typical brash Nordic comment, when an arrow grazed his chin. "Get your sword, ready, oh great Argonian." Isidor took out Arynel's gift and sprinted towards the path up the ridge.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 02:08 AM

Falco allowed Isidor to charge up the ridge. He knew that if he followed he'd be to tired from running up a steep ridge to fight. He merely took a winding path that takes about 5 minutes to get to the ridge from.

200+ Posts. Who will make the next one?

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 02:14 AM

His eyes widen, and instead of the flames he usually uses, it was lightning that surrounded him. He got slashed across the chest painfully by one of the daedroth, the creature snapping at him angerily. He grabbed the thing in the face, using his own variation of god's fire; God's Lightning. 4000 years plus lichdom and you get alot of powerful spells.

This was pretty draining, but the resulting electrical explosion was enough to make the statue shake a bit, along with banishing the one daedroth and harming the other two.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 08:14 PM)

As the second Daedroth is sent back to Oblivion, the Imperial continues to heal; he now looks merely like he's been badly burned instead of being a walking charred corpse. The infusion of Slyvos's magicka seems to be aiding his healing, though the cylinder's light continues to dim.

There is a rumbling sound as the statue shakes, and the air feels charged for a moment with more than just lightning.

The Imperial's free hand glows with a green-black light. "My own favorite spell," he sneers. "Tell me if it meets your standards, my friend." He thrusts his palm forward and Slyvos is enveloped in an enfeebling aura of magic, his strength being sapped and his health being eaten away by poison.

"You put up a good fight but you're lost now," the Imperial says, raising the mace. "Your magicka can't keep up with this much longer and you'll die ... unless you submit. Now be a good slave and OBEY!" He brings the mace down in a ferecous blow to Slyvos's head to emphesize the point.

(OOC: I'll start a new topic when the fight scenes are done)

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 02:25 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:08 PM)

Isidor reached the top of the ridge and saw a group of bandits who were laughing. Looking closer, Isidor saw Loki, lying on the ground, a sword to his neck and a foot on his chest. He had been cut, and that's why he couldn't defened himself. "You bastards. I will make you suffer."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 02:27 AM

Slyvos's eyes light up with flames before the mace hits it's target, and a shield of fire, a very thick one, enveloped him and though the mace hurt, the fool that wielded it was in even greater pain as his flesh seared off once more, and Slyvos floated up above the daedroth.

'hmm... I think I'll break that little cylinder of your's...'

He used what magic he had left to cast a spell to increase his strength, a good one, and punched a hole through the cylinder, disabling whatever magicks it had.

'try and heal now fetcher.'

He shook his hand in pain from the impact, but watched with satisfaction as the fool was beginning to die from the burn wounds.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 02:30 AM

The bandits numbered 8. All of wich were Dunmer. As such they shared a hatred for nords and argonians. 4 of them had bows. The one who seemed to be the leader spoke, "Don't move nord. Lest things get... unpleasent."

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 02:37 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:30 PM)

Shaka had finally caught up to Isidor and Falco. He kept to the forest for the moment, then opened a pouch and reached for a throwing spike; he stopped when he realized this was the perfect time to try out the Amulet...

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 02:37 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 08:27 PM)

The reaction Slyvos gets is a bit more dramatic than he may have imagined. When he breaks the cylinder, the green mist rushes out and he hears what sounds like the combined yells of dozens of people filling his ears. The rushing mist literally bowls Slyvos over in the air.

The Imperial howls, both in pain from the fire and with impotent rage. "NNOOOOOO!!!! You fool; you know not what you have broken! The curse of Molag Bal shall be upon your soul for this ..."

Suddenly, the two remaining Daedroth sieze the Imperial by the arms, and he cries out once more. "uuuhhhaaaawwwwaahhhh ...!"

YOU FOOL; YOU HAVE LET THE SOULS YOU GATHERED IN MY NAME ESCAPE, the Daedroths hiss in unison. FOR THIS, THINE OWN SOUL BE FORFIT.

The flames engulfing the Imperial burn even more brightly for a moment, immolating the three figures. With a sudden whoosh, they disappear, leaving not even ash to mark their presence.

The Mace of Molag Bal rolls across the floor.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 02:37 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:30 PM)

Isidor was so angry, the Dunmer's words weren't even heard. He walked to the Dunmer and said "It will be very unpleasent." He swung the sword, decapitating the leader. As the lackies prepared for attack, Isidor ran at them, his inate instincts coursing through his viens.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 02:39 AM

Slyvos looks down at the mace, letting himself go down to the floor, and picks the thing up.

'hmm... not as heavy as it looks.'

He swings it around a bit, and drops down.

'well, guess the ghost isn't here... wait. Souls...'

He turns around, wondering what he'll find...

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 02:42 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 04:37 PM)

The bandits swarmed after Isidor. Two fell dead from saber thrusts to the back, the two holding down Loki. Falco stood with his bloodied saber pointing to the 5 remaining bandits. " Tsk Tsk Tsk. When will you bandits learn. Sick them Loki" They both attacked the bandits, catching them in a pincer movement. Loki and Falco on one side of the bandits, and Isidor on the other.

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 02:43 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 08:37 PM)

Unseen by Isidor, a patch of air rippled to one side of the bandits like the air above a summer road. A bandit dropped with an ebony throwing spike in his throat. His comrade to his right started to turn but was thrown to the ground, struck by the flange of a nearly invisible Spear; blood fountained to earth.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:42 PM)

Isidor smiled. Even in the heat of battle, he was happy that he was not fighting alone. He kicked one of the Dunmer in the face, breaking his nose. "Savage beasts" he muttered before he slashed him in the throat. After one had fallen, another one went after him.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 02:46 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 08:39 PM)

Freed of the cylinder, the green mist begins to dispitate, forming into distinct figures - emanicated, stooped figures, but smiling ones.

Free, free ... The faint voices touch Slyvos's ears, and two new figures enter - Helvig and Freya, both smiling.

Mother! We found you at last ... Freya says, embracing a haggard-looking Nord ghost with long grey hair; the two hold one another while Helvig looks at Slyvos, the wounds on his body slowly fading.

You found her - we can never thank you enough, he says, his eyes shining brightly. And you've saved dozens of other souls in the process - you are truly a hero, and we give you our thanks.

The emanciated souls slowly straighten, their figures becoming more healthy looking; Freya and Helvig look almost whole. Gradually, they begin to fade out.

I won't forget this; I swear I shall repay you for this kindness, Helvig tells Slyvos. I heard your friends talking about your quest; perhaps someone on this side can help you. I will find that someone, this I swear.

... And then, Slyvos is alone.

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 02:47 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 08:45 PM)

"Three, two, and one ...." Shaka reappeared. Seeing that the wolf and the two adventurers were holding their own, he waited in fighting stance, with the Spear poised.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 02:50 AM

He sighs, taking a look at the cavern, and then gulping down a restore magicka potion: one of Lor's so it's gonna work just fine. And then he becomes invisible once more, the Mace of Molag Bal in hand, and heads back to Dagon Fel, feeling invigorated. There was just something about killing that necromancer that made him feel so alive...

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 02:51 AM

The one going after Isidor was quikly torn apart by Loki. The last terrified bandit fell to the ground, blubbering and begging to be spared. Falco kicked the bandit. " So Isidor, what should we do with this one? I say we tie him up and toss him into the ocean. Or perhaps he could make a good snack for Loki?"

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 02:52 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 08:50 PM)

Slyvos sees Gram waiting outside the cave, watching intently, axe in hand. He sees Gram slowly approach the cave, a concerned look on his bearded face.

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 02:53 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:51 PM)

"Hold off," said Shaka, straightening and walking forward to Falco and Isidor. "I don't like killing in cold blood."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 02:53 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 08:51 PM)

Isidor walked over to the Dunmer and knelt down next to him "Run." He turned back to Loki and petted him. "Free meat, boy."

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 02:54 AM

Slyvos lets himself be visible, holding the mace at his side.

'Hail!'

He has a rather uncharacteristically smug look on his face.

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 02:55 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jun 29 2005, 08:53 PM)

Isidor walked over to the Dunmer and knelt down next to him "Run." He turned back to Loki and petted him. "Free meat, boy."

Shaka cursed and grabbed Isidor by the shoulder. "Nord, it's cowardly to act like this. We're not bandits."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 03:00 AM

Falco smiled, "Wait I've got a better idea." Five minutes later the bandit was hauling the guar corpse on his back to Dagon Fel. Isidor, Shaka, and Falco were in the back with weapons ready. " Don't worry good man when we reach Dagon fel we'll give you to the guards."

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 03:03 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jun 29 2005, 08:55 PM)

Shaka cursed and grabbed Isidor by the shoulder. "Nord, it's cowardly to act like this. We're not bandits."

"He is a fiend, and a murderer. Fine. Falco will decide his fate ."

Posted by: syronj Jun 30 2005, 03:05 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 09:00 PM)

"That's more like it," muttered Shaka as he walked on the bandit's flank. He could understand how Loki being hurt would enrage Isidor, make him put on the bear-shirt, but Shaka couldn't kill someone who begged for quarter.

Posted by: Loranna Jun 30 2005, 03:06 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 08:54 PM)

Slyvos lets himself be visible, holding the mace at his side.

'Hail!'

He has a rather uncharacteristically smug look on his face.

Gram whirls, sees Slyvos, and relaxes, staring into the Khajiit's eyes for a moment.

A proud grin splits Gram's face and he claps his hands on Slyvos's shoulders, laughing heartily. "By Kyne we shall make a Nordic spirit in you yet my soon to be son!" he roars.

"Come! A warrior deserves a drink after a struggle such as that. Whoever you just slew, the two of you made the cave shake; I almost came running in when I saw the green mist billow out." He looks at the Mace with an approving nod. "A fine weapon; I noticed my daughter has also taken up the mace recently. We Nords practice with these things from the day we're old enough to hold weapon and shield; I'll give you some pointers if you like."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jun 30 2005, 03:08 AM

I think its time for a new thread.

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 03:09 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jun 29 2005, 09:08 PM)

I think its time for a new thread.

Wait for Dagoth Lich to reply.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Jun 30 2005, 03:09 AM

Slyvos grins, nodding.

'A drink sounds about good. Got some good news for Loranna too when we get back.'

He looks to his new weapon, and then back to Gram.

'sure, best to learn how to use this thing while I'm at it.'

Posted by: Stargazey Jun 30 2005, 03:10 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Jun 29 2005, 09:09 PM)

Loranna said I could say this:

LOCK ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Attrebus Jun 30 2005, 03:11 AM

What does this button do?