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

Posted by: Loranna Jul 22 2005, 04:04 AM

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!
===

Info for Loranna:

Race: Nord
Sex: Female

===

Summary for Loranna:

Loranna is in Ald Raathim, having spoken recently with Nalion and Shaka about matters of security and her past as Azura's vessel. She has also just recieved a curious letter from Master B, bearing words from Allerleirauh ...

Posted by: Aki Jul 22 2005, 04:09 AM

OOC Summary

The Dunmer Reichi is somewhere in Ald raathim...

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 22 2005, 04:41 AM

OOC Summary: Isidor is sleeping one off in the castle of Ald Raathim.

Posted by: syronj Jul 22 2005, 05:08 AM

Summary: The Argonian battlemage Shaka is enjoying the day somewhere in Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 22 2005, 01:11 PM

Summary:
The male Breton mage Nalion currently sits in his room, writing notes in his tiny script.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jul 22 2005, 04:45 PM

Summary: Falco Redflash is taking a brief stroll through Ald Raathim.

Posted by: f15tray22 Jul 22 2005, 06:44 PM

Summary: Thom has just exited the tavern, looking around the streets of Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Argonians rule Jul 22 2005, 08:00 PM

Whilst wandering the streets of Ald Raathim Falco came upon a small grungy shop. The sort of place most people would see on the treet but wouldn't enter. Falco however wanted to see what was inside as these sorts of places often carried interesting merchandise. It was dank and dark inside the shop and Falco seemed to be the only one there. The wals were lined with cobwebs and odd knicknacks, broken toys, miscolored jewelry, clocks that span the wrong way. Suddenly a short little Man popped out of nowhere. "You want me help you?"

Falco was quite surpirsed, "Err no just browseing..."

The little man pressed something into his hand, "Take this. It very special. Activate it and it bring you good luck. Free of charge. Now leave I have company..."

Who that company was Falco never knew nor cared. He left the shop with the tiny object in had. It was a small ebony amulet. Falco assumed it must be a fortify luck amulet. On the back was an inscription that read simply: Thieves luck. Falco smiled an placed it on then continued his walk around the city.

Posted by: Xyber02 Jul 22 2005, 08:10 PM

Summary: Anya's praticing archery at the target range.

Posted by: One87xe Jul 22 2005, 09:05 PM

...summary: oh, who am I kidding...just read on...

*The Last Solarian Refuge...*

"So Ami...you never did explain what the purpose of your spell is...so whats the purpose?"

"Actually it's pretty simple...haven't you attempted to fig--------....." Ami starts

*Before Ami can finish her sentence the windows are smashed in, and there in the center of her brand new store sets a brown wolf, eyes filled with rage...before Ami can even breath the door crashes open recealing two more wolves...before they can act One and Ami are surrounded...*

"Where did they come from Master---" Ami attempts to say

*The brown wolf surges towards Ami in a ferocious attempt to end her days only to be stung by One's Shehai in his stomach...the wolf lets out a horrendous howl before being consumed by Ami's fire spell as the other two charge towards the duo...teeth reared and eyes bloodshot, no matter how many times they strike One and Ami always seem to be just out of their reach...seizing the opportunity Ami makes her way to a small rack...as a table flies past her and destroys the window in front of her...regaining herself Ami reaches the rack and removes a strange looking spear...One is busily fighting both attackers with every part of his being...the wolves distracted by One's ability never even seen Ami coming...shes thrusts her spear with all her might into the rib cage of the nearest beast...it lets out a howl, then crumbles to dust...the lone wolf is now outnumbered...*

"Why are you here?...who sent you? Answer me dammit!!!"

*The wolf says nothing but attempts a sly grin...it then lowers itself into attack position and charges One...only to find his Shehai embedded in his shoulder and a trickle of blood from Ami's spear in his back...wounded and weak the wolf begins to regain his human form as it falls to it's knees...*

"Now...who sent you?"

*Having regained his human form a small Dunmer...sits kneeling in a pool of blood...*

"My name is Fegoret...and your death is all I seek..." he says weakily "...and now your doom..."

*The Dunmer lets out an earth-shattering howl which causes the reamaining windows to burst and crumble...One and Ami cover their ears...the howl pierces the air and never seems to end...in an act of desperation One charges the Dunmer and lobs it's head off...*

"Well glad thats o---"

*One is shocked to find that the entire store has been surrounded by blood-red eyes and glints of teeth...the duo move closer until their touching backs as wolves seem to appear out of nowhere...*

"Ther....theres so many Master One...how can we beat all of them?" Ami says unsure

"We don't...I do"

"What?....what are you talkin---..." Ami begins

*Before she can find the words One touches her forehead and casts the Recall spell...the last thing she remembered was One's warmth and the flash of the spell...she then falls unconscious...*

Posted by: syronj Jul 22 2005, 10:03 PM

Shaka stopped by the archery range to see how Anya's practice was coming along. The Bosmer had a focused look as she sent arrow after arrow into the strawman targets.

"Hey, elf," said Shaka. "Looks as if you have the knack for it. I never tried bows much myself."

Shaka stood next to her and took out an ebony throwing spike. With a flick of his arm, the spike blurred into the target next to Anya's. Shaka hadn't hit the center, but close enough for real life...

Posted by: Xyber02 Jul 22 2005, 10:10 PM

"Impressive." Anya stopped to watch Shaka. "Throwing weapons always were harder to hit with extreme accuracy. Hitting someone in any fatal zone with them is a sign of a good marksman. I've used a few from time to time, and it's much different from a bow."

Pulling back the string, she sighted her bow and kicked a lever next to her. Some wieghts dropped and cause a target to blur by in front of the two. Releasing the string, she watched the arrow fly and hit the target along the side. "I prefer the short bow, much better for accurate shots, and the size is decent enough to haul around. Plus I find that I have more of a knack for it than a knife or star.

I built this simple pully to work on moving targets. Eventually I'll be able to hit the chest dead on, but for no hitting it at all is good. Hitting the stationary is fine, but offers no real world practice. Hopefully some architect from the castle will help me make it more sturdy."

Posted by: syronj Jul 22 2005, 10:20 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 22 2005, 04:10 PM)

Shaka studied the pert Bosmer fondly, like an uncle who has just seen his niece surpass him. "No, I'm the one who's impressed. To think you rigged this setup for some more realistic practice.... I'm just an amateur myself."

Posted by: Xyber02 Jul 22 2005, 10:26 PM

Anya blushed slightly, she wasn't used to compliments or attention. "Aw, it wasn't much. There are far better marsmen than me. I just like to practice on something that will benifit me more when I'm on my own, and people rarely stand still just to be shot at. Why don't you give it a try, maybe?" She walked out to pull the target back and lock the wieghts in place again.

Posted by: syronj Jul 22 2005, 10:34 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 22 2005, 04:26 PM)

Shaka pulled two throwing spikes from the pouch, one for each hand. As the target began to move, he threw with his right hand and caught the target.

He threw the second spike with his off-hand, the left, and missed the target. Shaka grinned ruefully. "I'll have to keep working at it. Challenging device, though."

Posted by: Xyber02 Jul 22 2005, 10:38 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 22 2005, 02:34 PM)

"It is, I find. Hitting dead center is simple, but do it when judging distance and speed is when true talent begins. Catching it with a spike is still quite an achievement. I'm just an amateur myself, Shaka. Why don't we spend some time praticing, after all, with this group your never sure what could happen next."

Posted by: Argonians rule Jul 22 2005, 10:41 PM

edited

Posted by: Ritual Jul 23 2005, 05:14 AM

[OOC: New Characters...]

Name: Rymlin (Full name Rymlidisen Ashtilleppim)

Race: Dunmer

Age: 78

Eyes: Red

Hair: White, died red

Religion: Unknown

Occupation: Professional Curse-Weaver
--------------------------------------------

Rymlin sat by the window of the Ebonheart prison. He was irate that they had the nerve to lock him up in this squallid place. He stood up, and looked around his cell for some amusement. He found a small rat to play with. Levitating it to his face, he watched as it peddled the air, trying to run away. He set it down on his bed and picked up the little creature, calming it with a mild spell. "You're going to be my best friend, aren't you?" he said, stroking to mouse between the ears. The rat began to breathe rythmically, its breaths becoming identical to those of Rymlin's. "Now then" he said, "let's get to work." He set the rat down, and the creature's eyes began to glow and pulsate.

Rymlin laid back, closed his eys, and suddenly he was overtaken. His vision and senses had merged with the small creature. Their minds began to meld together, the rat's small mind easily overtaken by the intellect of the Dunmer. Rymlin willed the rat to run out of his cell, and over to the guard's table. The small creature went unnoticed as the guards stood in the corner talking amongst themselves.

"This Dark Elf gives me the creeps. All he does all day is sit and play with the rats in his cell. Something not right in there, you know?" said a short, stocky guard. He looked over his shoulder at Rymlin in his cell. "The old bastard's finally asleep. I swear, the sooner he's out of here, the better I'll feel." the short guard turned back to face his companion "I hate this post, I'd rather be in the Black March than with all these Dunmer."

The other guard, a tall imperial, took a sip from his mug. "You and me both" he said, wiping the foam of Mazte from his beard. "My wife says she wants to move to Cyrodiil, but I'm not going to get the money doing this type of work." the guard walked over to the window, looking outside where the sun was setting. "Almost time to go home, better stash this stuff." The tall man put the tip of his blade between two of the floor panels by Rymlin's cell. A small push revealed an empty secret compartment the guards used for storing liquor. He placed the bottle inside the hole, and put the stone back in place. The two guards turned and walked out of the prison hallway.

"Perfect" though Rymlin, who had been watching the guards carefully with his rat minion. Quickly, the rat grabbed a small ring on the table with its jaws, and ran down one leg over to Rymlin. Rymlin's eyes opened and he hastily grabbed the rat before it came out of its daze. He took his ring, and slipped it into a small fold in his shirt. "Thank you, you have been most helpful." Rymlin said, placing the rat back o nthe cold, stony floor. The rat ran quickly to its hole. "Now all I have to do it wait." With that, he went to sleep, anticipating what the next day would bring.

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

EDIT: Decided to do one character for the time being.
EDIT: Changed to Ebonheart for consistency.

Posted by: Xyber02 Jul 23 2005, 05:42 AM

QUOTE(Argonians rule @ Jul 22 2005, 02:41 PM)

At about this time Falco strolled up and took the bow and arrow. "Don't mind if I do.." He missed horribly, and the the shot almost hit Shaka in the eye. But luckily missed him by just inches. "Opps! Sorry abut that Shaka my mistake."

"Falco, watch where you shoot that thing." Anya shouted, slightly upset. "It's not a toy, you need to use it with more maturity. And give that back, it's not yours, and to use it as you have is a slight to me."

Posted by: syronj Jul 23 2005, 07:19 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 22 2005, 11:42 PM)

Shaka straightened up again after twisting to one side. His face was grim, but he decided not to chide Falco; Anya had already spoken for him.

The battlemage's glance fell on the ebony amulet around his fellow Argonian's neck. This is new, Shaka thought. He walked over to Falco. "Been to the market, or did you lift this from someone, mud-brother?"

Shaka added without irony: "I've heard you've been helping improve the castle security. Good to hear that, Falco."

Posted by: Ritual Jul 23 2005, 10:56 AM

Rymlin had a gift for sorcery since he was young, and it always proved useful. He had been using pets to achieve his goals since he was a boy living in Vivec. His father had been killed in the mines before he was born, and his mother fell to a crippling illness when he was twelve. It was only when he was older that he found out she had an early case of the blight. Rymlin used his gifts not only to keep himself amused as a child, but to support his mother when she could no longer support their family. For two years he lived as a thief, using his magicka to sneak into the houses of nobles and merchants, and steal their gold when nobody was looking. He only ever stole enough to live on, never taking more than a few drakes at time. He felt guilty for what he was doing, but knew it was necessary to help his mother.
------------------------------

Since then, Rymlin had changed. He no longer cared about his actions. He had nothing to lose, and no reason to stop. He made a comfortable living off of his sorcery, working mostly as a curse-weaver, helping nobles win duels, helping businesses out-sell adversaries and such. Occasionally, he would be hired as an assassin or thief for really important jobs, but normally everything he did could be completed with a few scrolls and a soulgem.
------------------------------

Rymlin awoke to the sun beating down on his face, a small rat nibbling on his finger. He looked down at the creature "I have half a mind to kill you" said Rymlin, sitting up in his poorly constructed bunk "but I think you'll be more useful to me alive." Rymlin picked the creature up by its tail, and looked into its eyes, casting his familiar hypnotic spell. As his thoughts merged with those of the animal, Rymlin sat back against the wall and tried to seem as lucid as possible to any passing guards. Rymlin set the rat down on the floor, and ordered it to make its way over to the guard's table once more. The creature scurried up the table leg, and was soon on the edge of a large open book. "That's it... That's the prisoner ledger. Let's see what I'm doing today." He couldn't see much through the rat's poor vision, but from what he could make out, he was to be sentenced by the local magistrate at 10:00. That left him with 2 hours to amuse himself, and try to figure out why he was in here.

A guard saw the rat on the table, and swept the small creature off onto the ground. Rymlin nearly jumped but he was used to such things, and knew how to maintain his composure during events like that. "Blasted creature, trying to eat the pages of the ledger. Damnable things, they're everywhere on this rock." the guard picked up the book slammed it shut, and placed it onto the shelf opposite the desk.

His companion was sitting at a round table eating his breakfast "I hear they're getting this one out of here today. Thank Stendarr. Guy's been creeping me out since they put him in here." said the other guard, tearing off a chunk of his bread and dipping it in some scrib jelly. "Anyone ever find out why he's here?" the guard said through a mouthful of stale bread "Thedeus said he's a killer. A real psycho. He said the guy kills people in their sleep, makes their nightmares become real." the guard scraped up the last of his jelly with a piece of bread, and took a swig of water from a leather canteen.

The other guard looked into Rymlin's cell, to make sure he wasn't awake. He leaned over the table to his friend and said in a hushed tone "I heard that with the stuff we confiscated from this guy, he could have routed an entire patrol single-handedly." The guard sat down at the table across from his friend "You heard what happened to Grindog, right?"

"No, everyone's been so up tight about it." said the guard, glancing at Rymlin's cell once more "Where's he been?"

"He dropped one of the rings we took out of the guy's house, and it shot out some kind of enchantment. Started spraying acid, took off his entire leg before the healer could come and remedy it." he shivered "We all thought he was going to die the way he was screaming. I've never seen an Orc screem like that, especially not Grindog."

"Well, I'll just be glad when he's gone. I'm going down to the dining hall to take this back, you think you'll be alright here?" said the man, picking up his plate.

The guard looked into the cell. "Yeah, I should be fine as long as he's asleep. You go ahead and go down. Oh, and could you pick me up a piece of scuttle while you're there?"

"Sure, I think we got a new crate of it today." the man said, going out through the door.

"Murderer?" thought Rymlin "How could they know anything about that?" Rymlin silently stood up. He walked over to his cell wall leaning against it. He said to the guard in a whisper that echoed through the room "You think I'm a monster, don't you?" Rymlin stood silently, waiting for a response.

The guard almost tipped his chair when he heard Rymlin's voice. It had been the first time he'd spoken since his arrival. He shivered and hesitated before responding "They say you're a merciless killer, that you like to torture your victim's mind before they die. I think that's monstrous enough." the guard said, his words made unsteady with fear.

"Murder AND torture?" thought Rymlin, standing against the wall, calculating his next moves. "They'll never let me rest with that type of charge. I'll be dead by dawn tomorrow." Rymlin cleared his throat before speaking "Well, I thank you for your hospitality, but I think it is time for me to leave, leave my regards to your commander." said Rymlin, conjuring a small fireball. He had learned at an early age that fireballs made excellent distractions, and could be made with little effort. He released the fireball against his bed, and cast an invisibility spell to conceal himself in the corner.

The guard stood up quickly, throwing the wooden chair out from under him. He ran over to Rymlin's cell, and saw only a cloud of smoke and ashes, with Rymlin completely gone. Releasing a small profanity, he quickly drew out his sword and fumbled for the key to the sorcerer's cell. Opening the cell, he swept the smoke out of his eyes, looking around as best he could for the escaped prisoner.

Rymlin saw his chance, and quietly moved behind the guard. He placed one glowing hand on the short man's shoulder, and another on the man's sword hand. With one he began to channel the guard's life into his own body, refreshing himself from his time in the cell. The other hand glowed red, as sparks and smoke began to come out from under Rymlin's hand, and the guards sword dropped from his spasming hand, which was now little more than a charred mass of moving flesh. Rymlin used his telekinesis to bring the blade to his hand, and quickly cut the man's throat. Weakened of his magic, he used the last of his power to open the lock on the evidence chest, and he grabbed all the enchantments he could carry. Finding a green glowing ring, he cast another spell to conceal himself, and calmly walked out the back door of the fort. He was now in exile, but he was also alive, which was all he could ask for.

Posted by: Shardie Jul 23 2005, 04:01 PM

Daggerfall City, Daggerfall

A mist held fast that evening, as in a large one story house behind the merchants quarters of Daggerfall City, a party was on. But this was no ordanary party. It was because today, amidst the gloom and unhappyness that had befallen this city as the dead rose, happyness exsisted in this house. For in a months time, she was to be wed. A marrage that had been a time comming. They had been engaged for over two years now, and despite recent hiccups, it seemed everything was becoming good. So what if there were ghosts haunting the streets. So what if the city was in panic? For this, though Lyssia Biennie, was going to be the light that shines over all this gloom that enveloped the city, somthing for the people of Daggerfall to look foward to, to make thier lives happy once more, for, in one months time, there will be a wedding, as Lyssia Binnie and Lord Marvin Landon were to get married

Posted by: Tratarax Jul 23 2005, 06:18 PM

Tiberius awoke a few days later, in one of the large shacks the healers were using because the permanent housing for them wasn't finished yet. He sat up and said, "Agghh... my head.". He had a bad headache, and his vision was blurry. A healer saw him getting up and rushed over to him and said, "Please, stay here for a moment, we need to make sure you're totally fine and then you can go. Also, I'd recommend that you drink alcoholic beverages from now on, it's probably cleaner, you're less likely to be harmed from it.", he said. "What? The whole reason I stopped drinking because I passed out once and someone robbed me of all my valuables...", Tiberius said, but the healer had already left to go get one of his colleagues to check Tiberius for any other problems. He was fine, except for a pretty bad headache. After about 15 minutes he was free to go. He thought his day couldn't get any worse, but when he got to his room at the inn, he had received a letter from his mother, informing him that his father had died. He'd have to go back to Cyrodiil for the funeral, and he'd have to stay there for a while. He went down to the bar and payed the inkeep for keeping the room for another month and then packed some of his stuff and went to the Mages Guild so he could get home. He hadn't expected to return so soon...

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 01:26 AM

Kallen, Loranna's seneschael, approaches the Lady's companions with a message:

"The Lady Dres Loranna wishes to see you in the study, to discuss an important matter regarding the safety of Ald Raathim."

Those who answer the summons wil lfind Loranna waiting for them in the study - her adventuring robe on.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 01:29 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 24 2005, 01:26 AM)

Nalion, clad in a black-and-brown robe and armed with his Dagger of Senses entered the study with a curious and half worried expression on his face. He shot Loranna a questioning glance, then took a seat, waiting for the others to arrive.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 01:29 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 07:26 PM)

Isidor is awakened by a knock on his door. After dressing, he hears that Loranna requests the group's presence in her study. He grabs his axe, some potions, and puts on his Snow wolf armor. He arrives, to see Loranna waiting for them, dressed in an adventuring robe.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 01:30 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 07:26 PM)

Shaka nodded to Kallen and told him he would be there soon. He thanked Anya for the chance to practice throwing, and told Falco he hoped the amulet would prove lucky.

Shaka put on a better robe, deciding to wear the Dragonbone Cuirass and other armor under it, and walked to Loranna's study.

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 01:42 AM

The Breton Arynel, dressed in traveler’s wear, a cloak and common clothing, entered silently into Loranna’s study.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 01:47 AM

Loranna smiles as each person enters in turn. Finally, when it seemed everyone who was going to come had come, she addresses her companions.

"To get right to the point, I wish to ask for your help in dealing with a ghost problem," she says. "Ald Raathim has been threatened in the recent past by the vengeful ghost of a former lord, Raithmat, and we think his spirit is hiding below in the dungeons."

"To summarize for those of you who don't know the full story, Raithmat was a cruel Dres nobleman who took pleasure in beating and debasing his slaves. He forced himself on the Khajiit who was my late husband Jazbet's mother, never acknowledging his half-breed offspring; Jazbet and Raithmat's daughter Seresina later fell in love in ignrorance of their relation, and had a child, Seres - otherwise known as Rasar, the leader of the werewolf pack that we dealt with a couple weeks ago."

Loranna sighs. "Long story short, Raithmat banished his loving daughter, insisted when she asked to return that she abandon her child, then tried to kill Seres anyway - and was poisoned by Seresina for it. Seresina took control of Ald Raathim, Jazbet becoming her knight until she died of plague and he became lord. In the afterlife, Raithmat grew most upset at all this, even more so when I became lady of Ald Raathim. He threatened me a little over a month ago, scarring me and saying that if his grandson wasn't named Lord of Ald Raathim he'd flood us all to oblivion."

"Well, we took care of that; Seres was duly named Lord and he duly gave the title back to me, not wanting it. We thought that might be the end of Raithmat's meddling, but during our recent efforts to tighten security, some of my servants and guards reported strange, unsettling noises and shadows in the dungeons. I think Raithmat is still down there, waiting for another chance to get back at us."

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 01:50 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 07:47 PM)

"If I may ask, how in Oblivion do you kill an anicent, angry, ghost? I can kill things that live and breathe, but ghosts? Perhaps this is better left to Nalion."

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 01:52 AM

Shaka studied Loranna with concern. He had heard rumors of scars that wouldn't heal, but he had tried not to give too much weight to servants' gossip.

"I had hoped that Raithmat had been appeased, but perhaps not. I will help however I can, Dres Loranna."

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 01:58 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 24 2005, 01:50 AM)

"If I may ask, how in Oblivion do you kill an anicent, angry, ghost? I can kill things that live and breathe, but ghosts? Perhaps this is better left to Nalion."

"Whether I can be of help or not will be revealed soon, I would say, Isidor. Revenants do usually not fall under my domain. We have accomplished the task we have been charged with. It is time that the origin of this task finds his rest and be relieved of suffering the mortal chill."

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:02 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jul 23 2005, 07:58 PM)

"Very well, Nalion." He unconsiously tighten his grip on his axe.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 02:07 AM

"Nalion's right," Loranna says, frowning.

"When I first encountered Raithmat, he was ... like a nightmare," she confides. "Nothing I did had any effect on him, his claws went right through my armor like it wasn't there, my healing potions and spells didn't work in his pressence. From my staff I knew that Raithmat had been haunting the castle for some time before I returned, each time steadily upping the ante as it were, until he finally pronounced his curse on the land."

"Now though ... the castle's been quiet, not a peep out of him since we dealt with Seres," she continues. "My main way of knowing he was still present somewhere stems from the scars that still refuse to heal on my body, and from the accounts of my guards this past week that something's not right downstairs. I think this time, we can deal with him, somehow - though knowing how vengeful ghosts can be, I imagine we'll be improvising a bit."

She pauses, thinking a bit. " ... There was one odd thing; he had a moment of seeming regret when we first met," she says. "Probably relating to how he tried to kill his own grandson though ... anyway, that's everything we know so far. Are there any other questions?"

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 08:07 PM)

"I have one, yes. Is he "travelling" with anyone else? Any other long dead ghosts, to worry about?"

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 02:10 AM

"My Lady, I can see that this won't be as easy as killing a tomb guardian. Were you able to drive him off that time, or did he just leave after scarring you and pronouncing the doom on Ald Raathim? Did any weapons have an effect on Raithmat?"

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 02:19 AM

"The shadows in the room resembled tortured souls when he was around," Loranna replies to Isidor. "I couldn't tell if they were spirits or just Raithmat's idea of ambiance; they didn't affect my encounter with him one way or another."

" ... He left on his own after saying his piece," she says to Shaka. "Nothing I did at the time seemed to affect him."

" ... I have some plan for how to stop him," she says. "It's more just an intuition than anything but I don't think it's a coincidence that he's hiding down in the dungeons where he spent so much of his time in life. Down there, he can be hurt ..."

Loranna grimaces and rubs her chest. " ... We should get this over with quickly," she says. "I don't like the idea of facing Raithmat when it's dark out."

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 02:21 AM

Arynel listened to the conversation, and then the Breton spoke after Loranna had said her part.

“Very well then, I see how this will go.”

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 08:19 PM)

"Very well. Let's go." He turns to the door, and opens it.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 02:24 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 23 2005, 08:21 PM)

"Very well. Let's go." He turns to the door, and opens it.

Shaka left the robe in the study so as to be unencumbered in a fight. In addition to the Cuirass, he was wearing Indoril pauldrons, Ebony bracers, and the rest.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 02:38 AM

Loranna leads the party down the tower stairs, past the library; soon thy come to the door that leads down into the cellar and the dungeons.

Loranna intones a protective spell as she turns the knob to the door, and casts a light spell ahead of the party. The smell of wine greets the party as they descend into the cellar, the large casks stacked up against the wall. The cool, damp air offers a pleasant change from Morrowind's summer heat.

The cellar leads deeper down, the light spell beginning to flicker; the decor changes, wine casks being replaced by manacles on the walls, tables by torture racks, brooms and other household items by pokers and whips. The coolness and dampness become more pronounced, until even the Nords are feeling chilly ...

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:40 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 08:38 PM)

Isidor, in his thick snow wolf armor, felt his spine tingle and goosebumps on his arms. Muttering under his breath, he says to Shaka "What kind of a place is this?"

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 02:43 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 23 2005, 08:40 PM)

Isidor, in his thick snow wolf armor, felt his spine tingle and goosebumps on his arms. Muttering under his breath, he says to Shaka "What kind of a place is this?"

Shaka was equally grim. "Raithmat was a real piece of work, from all accounts. Torturer, rapist . . . I said a month ago that he should die the final death. Hopefully Loranna has some ideas along those lines."

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 02:43 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 23 2005, 06:40 PM)

Isidor, in his thick snow wolf armor, felt his spine tingle and goosebumps on his arms. Muttering under his breath, he says to Shaka "What kind of a place is this?"

"Dungeon." Arynel said flatly.

The Breton walked on into the frigid chamber.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 23 2005, 08:43 PM)

Isidor nods, and whispers"Let's kill it, and get the hell out of here."

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jul 23 2005, 08:43 PM)

"Dungeon." Arynel said flatly.

The Breton walked on into the frigid chamber.

Isidor glares ahead at the back of the Breton's head.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 02:47 AM

Nalion, not having the natural resistance of Nords towards cold, unconsciously drew his cloak tighter around his shoulder. The interior of the dungeon did not improve the situation either. On the contrary.

Nalion closed his eyes for a moment and tried to adjust them to the light in the dungeons.

"This place should have been cleared long ago." he muttered, then braced himself for what they would face soon.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 02:56 AM

Cells by now are visible, the bars rusted and the insides not even fit for nix hounds; filth and charnel waft into the partys' nostrils, making Loranna's lips curl in disgust.

"This palce has lain like this ever since Seresina took over Daruhn," Loranna mutters, staring at a torture rack. "You're right Nalion ..."

The light spell flickers again, growing weaker; Loranna glances to the walls, the partys' shadows beginning to dance around wildly on the walls, seemingly joined by other shadows - familiar shadows.

" ... He's here," she whispers, pulling out Bell-Ringer, her mace. "Get rea ..."

A sudden movement from the torture rack catches Loranna off-guard; the chains the bind the victim to the rack leap forward on their own accord, ensnaring the Nord woman. She screams briefly, before a chain wraps itself around her throat and she finds herself being yanked to the torture rack, her mace being pulled from her grasp.

A syllibant voice fills the dungeon: Harlot of the thief, bringing your harem down to defend you. A cut appears on Loranna's brow as a hideous form takes shape before her ...

Almost recognizably humanoid, in that one could make out arms, legs, a torso and a head. Wicked claws, now drippng red, extend from gnarled hands, and the face - the hideous face that faced her over a month ago, twisted in a sneer, a snarl, a mask of greater than human hate.

The harlot and her harem .. .deserve only death, the shade of Raithmat whispers. And the room comes to life, chains from the walls flashing out to ensnare the others.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 02:59 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 08:56 PM)

Isidor takes out his axe, and tries to swing his axe at the figure.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 03:01 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 08:56 PM)

The harlot and her harem .. .deserve only death, the shade of Raithmat whispers. And the room comes to life, chains from the walls flashing out to ensnare the others.

Shaka already had the ebony axe out; he swung at the nearest set of chains. They began to give, in a shower of sparks, but one wrenched the axe from his claws while other chains began to pin Shaka's arms.

With moments left, he reached one hand back to the slung Bitter Mercy and called the Atronach. With the thump of displaced air, the Atronach grabbed the chains binding Shaka and snapped them before they could constrict further.

Shaka leapt forward, unsheathing the Spear, and commanded the Atronach to use his remaining time to try to help free others.

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 03:03 AM

A good cloak is a valuable commodity to a traveler, it is a roof over his head holding off rain and sun and all kinds of weather as he walks, it is a blanket for night’s sleep, and, properly bundled, a sack for carrying valuables.

It so happened, then, that there were few things as valuable to Arynel as his freedom, and so he resolved to do whatever was within his power not to be ensnared, swirled away from the grabbing chains, leaving his cloak trailing behind him like the taste of salt in the air by the sea, and even that was quickly left wanting.

And so the Breton was not captured.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 03:04 AM

Nalion's eyes widened as he saw Loranna being caught by Raithmat, then he saw chains rushing at him. The mage clumsily dodged one, the other hit him at the shoulder, ripping through his cloak. He dropped to one knee and touched his ring of sanctuary and was engulfed for a brief moment by a flickering green light as the spell took effect.

Two more chains targeted the Breton, looking hideous and almost alive, as the rust appeared like blood in the dim mixture of light and shadows. Nalion realized that he could not be of help to his companions if he had to deal with those chains, so he tried to seek temporary cover behind a table and began to incant a chameleon spell.

Posted by: Aki Jul 24 2005, 03:11 AM

Reichi, who had been with the group, but silent the whole time, drew Bloodfang and the Dagger Of Senses, batting the chains away as best as possible with the two short blades. Bloodfang, being a long blade and made of Daedric was doing better at knocking away the chains, while the Dagger was used mainly to detect the chains in the darkness.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 03:12 AM

Isidor's axe meets with no resistance as it passes through Raithmat's body - and indeed, Raithmat only barely seems to notice, having summoned a poker to his hand and turning to his captive. The end of the poker begins glowing red-hot.

Filthy N'wah, seducer and corrupter, he hisses at a wide-eyed Loranna. Even my own grandson fell prey to your forked tongue. This land of my ancestors cries out to have the filth purged from its soil; their souls scream in rage at the sight of our lands in your fetid hands.

He jabs at Loranna's chest, finding that she had worn her armor for this venture; snarling, he tosses the poker at Isidor's head and goes to pull her cuirass off when shaka breaks the chain binding him. Stopping short, he turns to glare at the Argonian.

Filthy lizard, talking beast, he growls. Let your own kind deal with you; hold them still!

The shadows on the walls seem to wail silently, and sink into the ground. Rotting, decayed hands begin to burst forth from the cells, decayed bodies push against the cells, bursting forth. A shambling, glassy-eyed, piteous throng of corpses advances on the party.

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 03:18 AM

Placing his hand on the forehead of one of the approaching zombies, Arynel spoke a few soft words.

Your time upon this place
So fleeting though it may seem
Has long since left you
And whether good or ill you
Brought on your journeys or
Good or ill you take
In passing
Pass on now
And no longer
Bother those
Still living

The Breton pulled back his hand and the zombie fell to the floor, though there were many still about.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 03:18 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jul 23 2005, 09:04 PM)

"Nalion! Catch," said Shaka, and threw him the Amulet of Shadows. Shaka called out to Raithmat, and cast a fireball spell. On himself.

Shaka disappeared in a ball of flame; the rest of the group felt a wave of pressure for a moment. Shaka walked forward, engulfed by fire.

"Raithmat, you cowardly bastard, I have full protection from fire. How about you?" and Shaka ran to the ghost.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 03:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 09:12 PM)

Isidor ducks the spear, by an inch. Realizing he cannot fight Raithmat, he turns to the corpses walking towards them. This is my kind of fighting, he thinks to himself. He goes foward, his axe firmly gripped. He swing his axe, knocking one to the ground. He brings his axe down upon the beast's head, and it dies, with a moan. He turns to the rest of the horde, a smile on his face.

Posted by: Aki Jul 24 2005, 03:24 AM

"Aw man, i hate zombies...." Reichi muttered, stepping back away from the throng of Zombies. He pulled his helmet from his belt and placed it over his head. Just in case the Zombies were of the 'Attempt to crack open skull and eat brains' variety. He attacked one Zombie, swinging the Daedric Shortsword Bloodfang at it. The blade easily cleaved off a arm, but the Zombie seemed unaffected, the life-absorbing enchantment slowing the Zombie some. He swung the Daedric shortsword again and again, hacking off chunks of decayed flesh and bones. The Dagger was used to fend off the still attacking chains. Luckily the zombies were hindering the chains with their very prescence.

Reichi continued to ha ck through Zombies, his blades less effective due to the undead nature of Zombies. Unlike a living being he could kill them with throat stabb or cut, or make them bleed to death from a multitude of wounds.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 03:25 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 24 2005, 03:12 AM)

The chains that had been rushing at Nalion stopped for a brief moment as the chameleon spell took effect, but somehow, they were able to find Nalion despite the spell hiding his figure.
Cursing, Nalion pointed his finger at the chains and spoke an incantation. Damage armour spells seemed his best hope to disrupt the chains pressing on him. In quick sequences, he targeted other chains flying about, too.

"Reichi, Isidor, keep those bonewalkers from Loranna.", the mage shouted over the clamour between two of his spells.

The amulet Shaka threw to him fell to the floor near Nalion. Not bothering to pick it up as the enchantment would not help, Nalion continued working on the chains.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 03:33 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jul 23 2005, 09:25 PM)

"Reichi, Isidor, keep those bonewalkers from Loranna.", the mage shouted over the clamour between two of his spells.

The amulet Shaka threw to him fell to the floor near Nalion. Not bothering to pick it up as the enchantment would not help, Nalion continued working on the chains.

Still burning, Shaka set a few zombies on fire as he ran toward Raithmat, the Spear in his hand . . . .

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 03:36 AM

The zombie Arynel touchs - a Khajiit - has most of its face rotted away, but what little remains seems to relax in a thankful, overjoyed expression. Arynel can almost see the spirit rising up and away, to its promised reward.

And then, Raithmat roars, and reaches forth, ensnaring the fleeing soul in his talons; the party can see the outline of the ghost struggle briefly, before Raithmat rakes its back with his talons, growling Did I give you leave, beast! Get over there and HOLD THEM STILL!!!

The other zombies pause, shuffling uncertainly on their feet, as Raithmat thrusts the Khaijiit's soul forward; with a resigned expression the ghost semi-materializes, hissing Khajiit sorry ... as it lunges at Arynel, its eyes looking even more forlorn than before.

Other ghosts - the spirits freed by Isidor's and Reichi's blades - appear, as Raithmat howls Whoever flees this battle shall know torment unlike any felt before - know your place slaves! I command their capture and deaths!

Loranna screams "MONSTER!" and Raithmat turns - in time to be engulfed by the wrathful Shaka. The flames seem to make Raithmat wince, as Nalion's Disintegrate spell causes several chains to fall limp.

Raithmat snarls Foolish lizard; you wish to be scaled! Talons rake at Shaka, the loathsome face of Raithmat looking positively glowing with dark joy. His face looks slightly different than before somehow, though.

The zombies and ghosts once again forlornly turn, putting up greater resistance than before to being sliced into pieces and more effort into actually grabbing the party members and dragging them down under their own weight. Loranna feels her eyes growing moist as she sees two zombies heading toward her, looking dismayed as they reach to finish stripping her of her armor.

"You poor souls ..." she whispers, as she struggles against the chains and zombies.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 03:38 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jul 23 2005, 09:25 PM)

Obeying, like a machine, Isidor marches foward into the see of blood and deformation. He saw Reichi fighting, and felt some pressure leave him. He swung his axe, taking down two at a time. He kicks one's head, and chops the other. He grins, and walks foward, swinging with all his might. As he knocks one to the ground, he feels a push on his back, and then, instantly, he ends up on the floor. He feels blood trickiling down from his head. "Bastard..." he mutters. He looks around to see what shoved him, only to see a giant Bonewalker, holding what seemed to be a bar from one of the cell doors. He calls to Reichi "A little help here?"

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 03:42 AM

“Very well then,” Arynel said, and then the Breton began to chant.

Aura weave of spirit
Rhyme, mantle call forth I
Kinetic with intrinsic power
Authoritative from end to end
Yearning towards the cycling evermore

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 03:44 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 24 2005, 03:36 AM)

Nalion, having managed to rid himself from the immediate threat of chains trying to bind him, managed to raise again and took some steps towards the heat of the battle. Taking a short glance at Raithmat's attempt to control the undead minions, Nalion braced himself. With intricate gestures and the spoken word, he began to weave a turn undead spell, then began to speak.

"Raithmat!
'Each bone is a door through the wall of the world.
Each bone is the road, with Wisdom and Power the travelers.
Each bone is the ghost fence that guards us from evil.'

Turn back and through the waiting door!
Your son Seres, how will he think about his ancestor?

Lost souls!
Tortured you have been in life,
Tortured you are in death,
By the same and same,
Bringer of pain and death,
Yet you heed his command.

Free yourselves from your chains,
And embrace the consolation and rest
That is rightfully yours."

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 03:44 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 09:36 PM)

Other ghosts - the spirits freed by Isidor's and Reichi's blades - appear, as Raithmat howls Whoever flees this battle shall know torment unlike any felt before - know your place slaves! I command their capture and deaths!

Loranna screams "MONSTER!" and Raithmat turns - in time to be engulfed by the wrathful Shaka. The flames seem to make Raithmat wince, as Nalion's Disintegrate spell causes several chains to fall limp.

Raithmat snarls Foolish lizard; you wish to be scaled! Talons rake at Shaka, the loathsome face of Raithmat looking positively glowing with dark joy. His face looks slightly different than before somehow, though.

The zombies and ghosts once again forlornly turn, putting up greater resistance than before to being sliced into pieces and more effort into actually grabbing the party members and dragging them down under their own weight. Loranna feels her eyes growing moist as she sees two zombies heading toward her, looking dismayed as they reach to finish stripping her of her armor.

"You poor souls ..." she whispers, as she struggles against the chains and zombies.

Raithmat's claw raked across Shaka's left cheek, flaying off scales and flesh. Shaka fell back a second, feeling shock begin; he tried to fight it with a healing spell, but found the magicka wasn't working completely, in Raithmat's presence. Shaka stayed on his feet, and thrust the Spear through Raithmat.

Posted by: Aki Jul 24 2005, 03:44 AM

Reichi broke off combat with the Zombie he was engaging, a low blow leaving it missing its' leg below the knee, and rushed at the Bonewalker above Isidor. The Bonewalker swung its bar at Reichi and the Dunmer ducked, narrowly dodging it, before closing the distance and disarming the Bonewalker, litterally. The two decayed limbs and their weapon fell limply to the ground. Joined shortly by the undead creature's head, before the decapitated and armless corpse slumped to the ground nearby.

"You alright Isidor?" Reichi asked.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 03:48 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 23 2005, 09:44 PM)

"Thanks, yeah I'm fine. Bastard came out from behind me." He gets to his feet. "Now, back to work." He winks and walks foward.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 04:01 AM

Arynel's chant, and Nalion's invocation, cause the zombies and the ghosts to pause, looking between Raithmat and the party uncertainly.

Khajiit ... want free ... one ghost whispers.

"Can these ones free usss ..." an argonain zombie hisses.

They fight against the Master - they don't bow to him, one ghost says, pointing an ethereal claw at Shaka. Maybe ...

He only holds power over you because you have surrendered it to him, Loranna says quietly, tears streaming down her eyes. Just like I was once in Azura's power, because I let her hold power over me. Darling souls, don't let this ugly spirit besmirch your beings any more. Throw down the chains and go to your final rest; you have earned it, through your suffering in life.

Gradually, the fighting stops; the zombies collapse, and the ghosts seem to straighten and raise their hands upward, becoming insubstantial - though Arynel can see one ghost, in the background, remaining - a Dunmer spirit from the looks of it ...

Raithmat roars, his face twisting into a mask of rage - though tired lines show on his now haggard features. HARLOT!!! he roars, throwing himself at Loranna and thrusting his claws deep into her chest; she screams ...

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 04:05 AM

Turning at Loranna’s scream, Arynel rushes to the Nord.

“Are you alright?” The Breton asks her before calling out to the others, “fight him off with whatever skills you may possess.”

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 04:06 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 23 2005, 10:01 PM)

Isidor wheels around, and sees Raithmat throwing himself at Loranna. Overcoming his thoughts, his instincts jump into play. "Pretty Nordic barmaid, spectral Khajiit=Death." He springs foward, and not knowing the effect, he swing his axe with all his might at Raithmat.

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 04:11 AM

Arynel’s palm rises as if to invoke a healing spell, but he does not. Instead, he places his hand hard against the wound Raithmat had carved into Loranna’s flesh, saying, “It is the magic of the wound that is most deadly, the physical harm can be much swifter repaired when that first is dealt with.”

Having said that, the Breton pulls back his hand as if drawing a piece of string from a ball of yarn, and glittering there in his hand is a shiny string of power, dark and black like coal.

Posted by: Aki Jul 24 2005, 04:22 AM

Reichi followed Isidor's lead, rushed forth at Raithmat and swinging both his blades with all his strength and speed. Praying that they'd actually effect the ghost.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 04:22 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jul 24 2005, 04:05 AM)

Turning at Loranna’s scream, Arynel rushes to the Nord.

“Are you alright?” The Breton asks her before calling out to the others, “fight him off with whatever skills you may possess.”

Trusting Arynel to do what needed to be done in regard of Loranna, Nalion turned towards Raithmat. He fixed his eyes to the ghostly figure as the chameleon spell dissolved around the mage, making him clearly visible again.
Nalion's eyes shone, if with anger, determination or by something else was hard to determine in the dim light. The Breton mage stretched out his arms as if to hold Raithmat, then began to speak.

"Raithmat,
Again I call to you,
By your own laws you set against us,
I hold you now.
As that falls under my domain.

'The son of my son
Or the son of my daughter
Or both
Must take the title Lord of Ald Raathim
In one month’s time
Or the land of the thief will be swallowed whole by the sea
You cannot take what you were not given.'

By your own words I hold you now,
Each condition met,
Each condition fulfilled.
Your purpose completed,
Your story here is done."

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 04:33 AM

Reichi and Isidor feel their blades sink into Raithmat, meeting a jelly-like resistance; he gurgles and pulls his bloody claws out, slashing at them wildly, looking now like a misshapen Dunmer with too many years on his head.

Loranna was gritting her teeth when Arynel approached her, hanging on by willpower; when he draws forth the string of magic, she gives a start, then relaxes, her eyes brightening some.

"Thank you," she says, grinning weakly as she pulls herself free of the chains at last. " ... Not exactly the most useful today girl ..."

Raithmat glares at Nalion, muttering Foolish Outlander, just like the rest - you come to our home and you take our lands and you hold us accountable to your laws. The Harlot came and desecrated our ancient gods, and for this, she is lauded and given our lands, my own House taking her in ...

The Dunmer spirit from the back steps forward. Father ... she says. He's right; let it go ...

Raithmat starts, his eyes looking almost merrish for a second. ... You ... patricide ... he hisses, turning away.

I am shamed, made low by these N'Wah, he mutters, as Seresina stares at her father intently. They have taken everything from me - taken what my bastard son took at first, thanks you your weakness. Show yourself a true Dunmer, my dauther, and cut these Outlanders down; do not let these lands of your ancestors be diluted and made profane ...

Seresina looks overwhelmed; she leans down and wraps he ghostly hand around Loranna's fallen mace, looking at her father.

Posted by: Arynel Jul 24 2005, 04:37 AM

Arynel turned quickly away from Loranna and towards the apparition of Raithmat.

Shadow-fiend, your ghost has too long haunted, and should be no more

Linger-haunt, your power brings not but ill, and should not be but for a great evil

Rasar-Seres-Rasar, by the word of your own heir I rebuke you

Loranna-Dres-Loranna, by the one you wound I take your spark

Seres-sina, by your own fruit I rebuke you

Raithmat-wraith-damned, by your own power I bind you

Having spoken, the Breton struck the string of power forth like a whip, where it became the preemptive image of what could become a geomagickal prison. Afterwhich he collapsed.

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 04:47 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jul 24 2005, 04:37 AM)

Nalion watched in awe as Arynel incanted his spell, then almost jumped as the fellow Breton fell to the floor. Drawing together what his own already drained reserves could offer, he rushed towards Arynel and began dragging him out of immediate danger. Since Arynel did not seem injured, but rather exhausted and Nalion did not know a spell to restore fatigue on him, the Breton mage stood, ready to defend his friend if need be.

Posted by: One87xe Jul 24 2005, 04:57 AM

*...The Last Solarian Refuge*

"Kynareths Rage!!!"

*As One's surrounded and out of options he resorts to his last resort...the unfocused wind spell 'Kynareths Rage'...the absolute force of Tornado winds sweep through the building, tearing the walls and roof off alike...as One sets in the eye of the storm he can make out the group of wolves scattering, trying to avoid the harsh winds even now ripping them to pieces...the wolves that are lucky enough are swept high into the air, plummeting back down to earth...most are impaled by flying debris or swept away by the very ground they stand on...as quick as it had come the storm is over, and the remains of several races can be seen strewn about...One flashes a smile as he falls to the ground...*

*...A field in Central Cyrodiil...*

"Why do I always volunteer for the dirty jobs?"

*...Trefist had been running strong since he left his Clan...even in wolf form his cheest burned in agony from pushing himself to hard...reluctantly he retakes his human form and continues down the pathway...*

"This one better be worth it...always with some half-brained scheme to move the Clan ahead...personally I think he's given to Sheogorath...the Clan needs a new leader...one who's strong...hmm....perhaps----"

*...Trefist is interupted in his thoughts by an arrow screaming past his head...*

"Where did that come from...funny I didn't smell anyone behind me...hmm"

"Show yourself, coward!!!" Trefist screams into the night

*...As he reels around looking for the culprit, a smallish looking figure steps onto the pathway behind him...*

"Heh, heh...fool, it will give me no greater pleasure than to rip out your throat" Trefist says

*...Trefist reassumes his wolf form and charges the stranger...*

*...Ami lies in a frozen field on what appears to be Solstheim...several figures are moving towards her...*

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 04:59 AM

Raithmat looks as one bound by the deliniation of straight curves, his eyes glaring into Seresina's. He opens his mouth but no sound comes forth, and his haggard face tries too hard to shout 'You See! They Must Die!' to his daughter, age lines betraying his attempt to look stern and dignified.

Seresina raises Bell-Ringer, looking to Loranna. Her eyes glow red in the dim light of the dungeon as she braces herself to swing.

Loranna stands, watching Seresina, her eyes still a bit moist. She says quietly " ... Do it, dear; for his sake as well as yours."

Seresina's lips draw together in a determined line, and she brings the mace down, invoking its magic; the torture rack Loranna had all too recently occupied splintered with a resounding Crack!, and Raithmat gives vent to a silent howl, his body rent, defeated.

... I should have done this back when I had flesh still, Seresina says quietly, handing the mace to Loranna. The Dunmer ghost's face was a mask of sorrow. ... Goodbye, father.

Chains were smashed, tables broken; within the prison, an old and slumped Dunmer mutters to himself, railing quietly against his tormentors.

Posted by: Aki Jul 24 2005, 05:13 AM

Reichi swalked towards the slumped and muttering Raithmat, Shortsword in hand and slick with nasty coagulated zombie blood. "Serjo Raithmat, may you rest in piece, or at the very least, pieces," Reichi said, hefting up the blade and bringing it down on the Spectral mer.

Posted by: Loranna Jul 24 2005, 05:20 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 23 2005, 11:13 PM)

Reichi's sword plunges into Raithmat's head; at the same time, the geomagickal prison folds along strange contours, imploding in a flash of soft light. When the flash clears, Raithmat is no longer present, and the chill in the room lessens.

Seresina mutters It's time for me to leave as well ... She begins to fade, though she pauses when Loranna catches her eye.

" ... Thank you," Loranna says, smiling a sad smile. Seresina's lips curl upwards a little, weakly, and she fades away.

"Goodbye, sister-in-law," Loranna mutters as she heads over to check on Arynel. It was time to heal the wounded and rest.

Posted by: Stargazey Jul 24 2005, 05:21 AM

Isidor watches as the spectre blew up. The flash of light blinded him, but he was able to see a smile on Loranna's face. "Any mead?"

Posted by: Nalion Jul 24 2005, 05:35 AM

The tension slowly ebbed away, but Nalion could still feel his heart pounding from the strains of the last minutes and only now he realized that he was breathing heavily. The mage leaned against a wall, then let himself slide down until he sat on the ground and tried to catch his breath.

Seeing that Arynel was cared of by Loranna, the Breton closed his eyes.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Jul 24 2005, 05:38 AM

Allerleirauh's journal, date uncertain:

Dreamed last night - woke in utter confusion.

Ballrooms have been important in my life, and so they are symbols in my dreams, turning points, testing grounds.

This was a battlefield, a desolate expanse of rocks and lava - but there were torches and sconces lit, transforming it into a ballroom floor. Everyone was gaily costumed and dancing... I was dancing with Lothair, my late husband, as we danced on that fateful night when he asked me to marry him. Only I realized it wasn't Lothair, it was X. - and X. asked me to marry him, and I didn't run away (which is what I did to Lothair), didn't say no, didn't say yes. I only said: "There's no music, why are you dancing so fast?"

And Solin, watching from the sidelines because he will not dance, said, "I'm not worried that we will fail to save the world. I'm worried that we will succeed in saving it."

Solin's features blurred; he was Dunmer, then not Dunmer, then Dunmer again.

In waking life I am a whole head taller than stocky little X., but when we danced, it was as if I shrank; my head was pressed against his chest. And indeed that is how I feel, as if, with his cool reason and experience, he towers over me. X. has never said one word to me of romance - indeed, not one word said in any different voice than if I had been a man. Yet he does offer me a proposal, one which both thrills and alarms me, and yes, we are dancing too fast...

[....]

It is said that with a big enough fulcrum and a long enough lever, you can move the world. Well, that's not quite true. You need a fulcrum, and a lever: but more than either, you need a place to stand while you use them.

So we are here, in this place outside all earths, to make a place to stand while we move the world. And we have made it.

Posted by: syronj Jul 24 2005, 08:31 AM

(edit)

Posted by: w0nders Jul 24 2005, 01:46 PM

Dante, somewhere-

It was impossible to see anything through the fog; heck, Dante was finding it difficult to even hear anything for some reason. He stopped where he was, and readied his sword, expecting to be attacked at any moment. Dante stopped suddenly, and feel to one knee, he dropped his sword and grabbed his chest…he began to cough violently.

Suddenly, he caught a glimpse of a dark figure passing in and out of the misty fog. Dante picked up his sword and climbed to his feet, where the pain in his chest kicked in again. He fell down on his back and tried to muffle his screams, but no luck, “What in Oblivion?!” Dante cursed to himself, sitting up with a large snarl.

Dante was just quick enough to let out a gasp as he saw the vampire dive on top of him, and drive it’s fingers inside the cut across his chest. Dante screamed, and his fist found the vampire’s temple…it tumbled off of Dante and lay there…dazed, trying to shake the haze out of its skull. Dante rolled on top of the creature and kissed his knuckle, before repeatedly punching it in the face, knocking away the vampire’s feeble attempts of self preservation when the need arised.

Dante let all his anger go, he let all his guilt and hatred possess that one arm, that one fist, he didn’t stop until he found it increasingly hard to lift his arm. At this stage he was reduced to a quivering, whimpering mess…he fell off the vampire that was now left with a crude puddle of blood, bone, puss and mucus where it’s head once resided.

He sat up, and looked over the mess he had made, his lip quivered as he threw his gauntlets aside. He cupped his forehead in his hand and rocked back and forth, weeping at moments, and cursing at others.

“I’m losing it.” He whispered to himself, his body shaking in unison with his words.

“No…no, you’re not. You idiot, be strong…this is minor to what you’ve been through in the past.” He corrected himself, suddenly he stopped shaking, and got to his feet, where he began to slowly and carefully remove the armour from the vampire’s corpse.

He was losing it.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Jul 24 2005, 05:57 PM

Okay, you got yourself here, and you can get yourself out of here, he thought determinedly.
Now how did the Recall spell went again? He mumbled few words, and a fireball flew from his hands and set a nearby tree into fire. "Oh dear, did I do that?" He tried again. Another tree was on fire. Oh dear, I'll have to walk then... I hate walking.. But ahh, now I remember it! A lightning stroke down an Alit that was trying to sneak his back. "Whups, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to do that." His shoulders went down a little bit. And he started walking.

Posted by: Shardie Jul 24 2005, 06:11 PM

Daggerfall City, Daggerfall

The child was playing on the street... playing with her friend, throwing a ball to one another... the mist was rolling in once more, as they could hear thier mothers calling them. It was time to come in, Daemons fed on little children, or so thier mothers said. The children did not quite believe them, as Katie took her eyes off the ball, to look for her mother calling her from the heavy mist, missing the ball. She watched it bounce into the mist, as Amy yelled to her to go get it. She slowly ran into the mist, and found the ball had come to rest at the legs of a man... Katie looked up, to see his black face, his red armour, his night black sword hanging from his sheath... the child screamed, and ran back to her mother, whilst Drevious struck his sword through the ball... yes, he thought. He liked that sword, and he would get it back somehow... the wind blew a flyer into his feet. He picked it up and read the contents... yes, he thought, this would do nicely, as he dissapated into the mist around him...

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 01:10 AM

Thom sat in a long hallway. After watching the members of Loranna's group gather and meet in the castle, Thom decided to follow and wait for them there. He waited.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 01:14 AM

Loranna's Journal

Let the world prove its worthiness to be saved; that's what you said, Allie. I don't know if the world is proving itself yet but here in Daruhn, we try to show ourselves worthy.

Raithmat is no more; deprived of the power his captive slaves provided, and of the tools of torture, he was reduced to nothing. I felt bad for Seresina, who watched her father rail against us, gnashing his teeth; even when he was reduced to being a tired old mer he still hissed the same hateful words ...

Stop that; it's done now. Ald Raathim has had his taint wiped away, by tears and sweat and the courage of brave souls. The dungeons are finally being cleared out of both smashed torture devices and the corpses of the poor slaves who met their end down there, long ago - far more than my heart wishes to count. Their bodies shall be interred properly, after all this time; their souls, thanks to Arynel, have already had their business here on Nirn finished and may move on. I wonder if Seresina is with Jazbet now, or else watching over her son, wherever he may be. Peace and happiness, sister-in-law; may you exist happily ever after.

As for myself, Arynel's hands showed me what I should have realized on my own before; Raithmat's ugly intentions were behind the unhealing scars. Clensed of that black power, my body has healed; I can see the faint outline of the letters still if I look closely, but I don't doubt even those will fade with time. I will look at Kallen and Slyvos, and if need be wash away any lingering trace of Raithmat's darkness with my tears; they should be fully recovered as am I.

My companions rest now; my magic has healed their bodies to the limit of my ability, and for now things are quiet. Doubtless within a day or so other matters will again rise up, but we'll deal with those issues when they arise. For right now, I have time to myself.

Remember, and come, you said Allie; ever since you sent me your letter I've been feeling an urge to remember. Sometime soon, I have to sit down and compose a proper reply to your letter - if I can ever manage to sort through the storm of thoughts and realizations your words sparked in me, of course. For right now though ... it looks to be a clear day outside.

I'll count myself blessed if I can remember for right now.

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 01:44 AM

Anya sat in her room, working on some cracks and tears in here chitin pauldrons from the zombies.

Zombies, of all the things, zombies. She destroys entire islands, she has ghosts kept in her basement, this is no ordinarly noble woman. Anya thought to herself. Ah well, she seems to mean well, as near as I can tell. And it does keep me busy. But still, my family...

Grabbing some resin, she worked on getting the armored part whole again. She had kept quiet during most of the engagement, and kept to the flesh-and-blood oppenents she knew how to fight, prefering to leave the arcane battle to the mages. Grabbing her drink, she waited for the resin to harden so she could apply another coat and smooth it out.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 01:48 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 24 2005, 07:14 PM)

My companions rest now; my magic has healed their bodies to the limit of my ability, and for now things are quiet. Doubtless within a day or so other matters will again rise up, but we'll deal with those issues when they arise. For right now, I have time to myself.

Isidor woke up early the next morning. His dreams had been haunted by broken bodies, with limbs and bones askew. He dreamt of Arynel, he dreamt of Loranna, and he dreamt of Reichi standing over him, his sword drawn. He wasn't sure if his dreams were real or fake, but he remembered them very vividly. After he had dressed, instead of facing Razibah's cooking, he snuck off to the tavern, hoping to have a guar meat sandwich and a cup of Trama Root tea. Surprising himself, he had no thirst for mead.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 02:31 AM

Thom didn't wait very long. Three hours in the chair ate Thom alive, so he quickly got up and wandered to his camp. After a quiet night, Thom headed back into town, but this time, torward the tavern. He entered the building and looked around at the patrons. Among them was Isidor, trying to shove a whole sandwich into his mouth at once. Thom smiled and walked over to his table. "If you don't slow down, I will have to cut guar out of your throat" joked Thom. He pulled up a chair and sat at the table. "What happened yesterday? I was looking for you and your friends, but couldn't find you."

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 03:22 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 24 2005, 08:31 PM)

Isidor swalloed hard, and said "Killing anicent Khajiit spectres, and zombie slaves. The usual" he jokes "What'll you have to drink, or eat? But I'm afraid I might've exhausted the tavern's supply of guar meat."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 03:38 AM

"Nothing, right now. Thanks anyway. So, the norm is constant? Well, it doesn't surprise me. From you being here, I guess you were successful. Is anyone badly injured?" Thom saw afew more scratches on Isidor's face than before, but he seemed content to Thom's eyes.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 03:40 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 24 2005, 09:38 PM)

"Nah. But let me tell you something. I have new found respect for bretons. They look they'll break if you look at them, but they fight like hell, and they're wise as sages. It was the oddest tthing I've ever seen, watching a spectral Khajiit explode in a flash of light." He shook his head, in what seemed to be disbelief.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 03:48 AM

"From what you say, I wish I was there. Exploding Khajiit ghosts? Of all the strange things I have encountered and heard of, that sounds the most interesting." Thom laughed. "Yes, Bretons are a force to be reckoned with, especially if they have taken the path of Mage. Fierce warriors and terrible Mages, they make. If you are not facing their wrath, they are a wonder to behold." Thom looked down at his hand, and admired the ring on his outside finger. "Where did you face this Khajiit?"

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 04:02 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 24 2005, 09:48 PM)

"The dungeons, beneath the castle."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 06:19 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 24 2005, 07:44 PM)

Shaka knocked on Anya's door. Unconsciously, his hand traced the lighter scales on the left side of his face where Loranna had healed him. At least he hadn't lost an eye when Raithmat raked him . . . .

"Anya, can I borrow some resin for the dragonbone cuirass? I could smell it curing in here, and I still have some gouges to fill in."

Shaka thought back to the relief in Loranna's eyes when the sword of Raithmat had finally been lifted from above all their heads, so to speak. Loranna and her healing magicka had been his first sight after blacking out near the end of the battle.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:54 AM

An old altmer appeared from the forest, and sighed from relief. Finally, he thought, I thought I'd never get out of there. He noticed a tavern sign on a house in front of him, and he decided to go and get some refreshments.

"A flin please, along with some information." He shouted to the barkeeper.

When the flin arrived, he took a sip from it and started making questions.
"What town is this?"

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 09:45 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 24 2005, 10:19 PM)

Snapped out of her reverie, Anya opened the door.

"Come in Shaka, have a seat. Let this coat finish drying soon, and then I'll put one more on, and you can have the rest of the resin." Looking at his face, she jokingly commented, "Your scales look like they're coming in nicely, a little off color from the rest, but better than having none at all. Here, I have some drink left over from the kitchen, have a little while we wait for this coat to dry, it wont be too long now. So... is this Raithmat truly gone know?"

Posted by: w0nders Yesterday, 12:53 PM

A figure approached the borders of Ald Raathim, it's exo-skeleton-esque suit of stained silver armour created almost no sound.

There was a calm silence as he approached.

He was wearing that nifty coat he picked up from the creature he had recently slain, and it covered most of his armour.

The armour almost made him look at least twice his size, creating a slight bulk to his usual form. He continued down the path, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword, the scales of his armour shined brilliantly in the light.

The majority of his shaggy hair had flopped over his face, shadowing all other features not covered by the hair itself.

He had reached the border guards and was cleared for entrance.

Dante was home.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 01:49 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 25 2005, 03:45 AM)

"Thanks, Anya," said Shaka as he accepted the drink. "As far as I know, the ghost is gone forever. Loranna and the other mages sensed something that I missed -- the racks and chains in the dungeon had absorbed so much misery over the years that they added to Raithmat's power."

"Luckily the dungeons will be cleaned out now. . . ." Shaka glanced at the scorch marks on his armor, but decided against another trip to the smith this day.

Posted by: Nalion Yesterday, 01:56 PM

When Shaka returns to his chamber, he will find a small package with a letter in it. The script on the parchment is small, but every letter is written clearly and with visible care.

Shadow-melding
And shadow-wielding,
Among shades of the past
Was its purpose.

Given freely it was,
To a friend in need,
Left unwielded,
But not unrecognized.

Return it shall,
To its rightful owner,
Alongside with gratitude,
And the greetings of a friend.

N

When peeking into the package, Shaka can see the intricately wrought chain belonging to the amulet within.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 02:03 PM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Jul 25 2005, 07:56 AM)

When peeking into the package, Shaka can see the intricately wrought chain belonging to the amulet within.

Although he was alone, Shaka nodded and said, "Thanks, Nalion." He placed the Amulet of Shadows back around his neck. Not an item that Shaka wanted to risk losing.

Posted by: Shardie Yesterday, 04:52 PM

Meridia's Palace, Oblivion

Meridia read the pamphlet and threw it into a rubish bin... she had had enough of playing with mortals for the time being, after all, according to her publisist, it was nearly her time to shine...

Chorrol, Cyrodill

Her manslave had given her the paphlet, it had been rushed from Daggerfall city as fast as she could by her best manslave... the nerve of that woman, she thought, stealing her husband... she picked up a dagger, and placed it into the heart of a picture of Lord Landon she hung above her mantle. She turned to her bookshelf, dismissing her manslaves, and pulled down a book from her shelf, "1001 to plot a murder" the title read

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 04:55 PM

Isidor, who was sitting at the bar, turned to the Altmer who had just entered "Ald Raathim, sir. What brings you to these parts?".

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 06:43 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 09:55 AM)

Isidor, who was sitting at the bar, turned to the Altmer who had just entered "Ald Raathim, sir. What brings you to these parts?".

The old altmer blushes a little bit and mumbles something, and continues then with a bit more clear voice: "...and then I found myself lost in the woods and I wandered around until I got here."

"Where abouts is this Ald Raathim on a map? I haven't heard of it before. It wouldn't happen to be anywhere near Cyrodiil?"

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:50 PM

QUOTE(Eyes Of the Wolf @ Jul 25 2005, 12:43 PM)

"No. This is Morrowind friend, the Dunmer lands. Cryodiil is farther to the west."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 06:52 PM

"Southern Morrowind actually. Most people figure that out by the exotic wildlife and plants," Rechi said. The Dunmer seemed to have come out of nowhere, crowds were good for hiding in and making dramatic entrances like that. "And the heat..." he added.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 06:52 PM

QUOTE

"No. This is Morrowind friend, the Dunmer lands. Cryodiil is farther to the west."

"Oh dear, my spell must've taken me much further than I had thought... But, for now, I think I'll stay here for a while, 'cause I wouldn't make it to the meeting anyway."

"You woudn't happen to know any place I could stay?"

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:55 PM

QUOTE(Eyes Of the Wolf @ Jul 25 2005, 12:52 PM)

"Oh dear, my spell must've taken me much further than I had thought... But, for now, I think I'll stay here for a while, 'cause I wouldn't make it to the meeting anyway."
"You woudn't happen to know any place I could stay?"

"Ah, no. I'm new here, and a guest of the local noble."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 06:55 PM

Thom looked thoughtfully at around the tavern. Merrymaking and joy was all around. It made Thom feel comforted, making Thom forget his past and his sworn duty. Thom rubbed his hands together. He looked down at the ebony ring on his left hand finger. The ring was special to him, and it always reminds him of his oath and of his Brotherhood. It was very black, as black as black could get, unmarked and smooth, but suddenly the color turned to a black with a tiny bit of red. Thom's face suddenly switched to a very serious expression. Thom jumped up from his chair and put his hand on Orome's hilt, checking to make sure it was there. Thom said to Isidor in a deep dark voice, "I must fly. Danger is near, and getting nearer. I will head it off." Thom looked into Isidor's eyes and saw that he was confused. "I have no time to explain, but there is trouble. Go to the guards, tell them to keep above their guard. Go!" Thom bolted, quickly but quietly out of the tavern and hurried north of Ald Raathim. It or they were getting near, and his pledge demanded his intervention.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 06:57 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 12:55 PM)

Isidor was bewildered, but rose to his feet and pardonded himself out of the bar. Where was Dram when you needed him? He went to the castle, looking for him.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:00 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 11:55 AM)

The altmer seemed a little bit confused, but rented a room from the barkeeper. Then he started to follow Isidor using his brand new invisibility enchantment on his shirt.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:10 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 12:57 PM)

Isidor was bewildered, but rose to his feet and pardonded himself out of the bar. Where was Dram when you needed him? He went to the castle, looking for him.

"Hey, wait up!" Reichi said, before bolting after Isidor. He considering following Thom, but let the Imperial handle this on his own for now. He wondering exactly what in Oblivion was going on.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:13 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 01:10 PM)

"Hey, wait up!" Reichi said, before bolting after Isidor. He considering following Thom, but let the Imperial handle this on his own for now. He wondering exactly what in Oblivion was going on.

After thanking Anya for the resin, Shaka carried the Dragonbone Cuirass back to his room to dry. He left his pauldrons in the armoire but kept on his bracers and greaves.

Shaka walked outside the castle for some fresh air, and saw Isidor and Reichi, who seemed in a rush.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 07:19 PM

Thom walked slowly back torward Ald Raathim. He had afew more cuts and scratches, but otherwise unscathed. As bag was tied to Thom's belt, weighed down. "I am bound to my duty, and I will never betray my pledge" thought Thom. His ring had gone back to fully black, with no trace of red. Thom came into town and headed to the castle. When he arrived, he entered and looked around for Reichi or Isidor. Soon he found them and said, "My friends, all is well. I have defeated the danger and for now Ald Raathim will be safe. I know you are all confused, but soon I will dispel that. But not right now. I must talk to the Lady and her head guard, but as I tell them, you should be present. You should all know my past, atleast a little. The danger was closer than I had hoped to town, but was dispatched. You might have your guesses, but you shall hear all soon enough. Now, I head to my camp; any who wish to accompany may." Thom turned exited the castle.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 07:19 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 01:10 PM)

"Hey, wait up!" Reichi said, before bolting after Isidor. He considering following Thom, but let the Imperial handle this on his own for now. He wondering exactly what in Oblivion was going on.

Isidor slowed down, and allowed Aki to catch up with him "Thom said there was going to be some sort of trouble, to tell the guards. Any idea where Dram is?"

"Very well, Thom. I believe the lady might still be resting, and I don't know where Dram is."

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:22 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 12:19 PM)

That's interesting. But, I wonder...

He stalked after Thom.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:23 PM

"Yeah, Loranna's probablly resting, and Dram could be anywhere," Reichi said. "So, what exactly, is this danger?"

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:23 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 01:19 PM)

Shaka watched Thom, Isidor, and Reichi confer in the distance. The night was cooling off from the day's heat and humidity. Shaka walked quickly across the courtyard to talk with the werewolf and the Nord.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 07:28 PM

Thom heard Reichi and stopped. He turn and went back. "It is not for common ears. If you really wish to know now, come with me to my camp. There we will be away from too-open ears. " Thom looked at the small group and smiled.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:31 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 01:28 PM)

Shaka said, "And here I thought the group was going to get some rest after the battle with Raithmat. I'd like to come along, if it's all right."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:31 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 01:28 PM)

"Okay," Reichi said simply, prepared to follow Thom.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 07:34 PM

Thom nodded and said, "Then we go now. I have changed camps since the assassination attempt on Reichi here, so follow me." Thom set off out the north exit to the city and worked his way west. After afew mintues, they arrived. Thom ignited the firewood he had gathered and fed it till it was emitting enough light to see well. "Pull up a log to sit down. All of you."

Thom went into the forest a small ways; he was looking for some sharp ended sticks. After finding three of them, Thom set them in a row near his lean-to, sticking them out of the ground.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:36 PM

Reichi sat down on a log, warily. "So, what exactly is this danger, eh? Dark Brother hood after ya or something?" he asked. "Maybe the Morag Tong? House Dres Pissed at ya?"

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:36 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 12:34 PM)

"So, how exactly did you notice me?." The altmer appeared to the log, now completely visible.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 07:37 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 01:36 PM)

Reichi sat down on a log, warily. "So, what exactly is this danger, eh? Dark Brother hood after ya or something?" he asked. "Maybe the Morag Tong? House Dres Pissed at ya?"

Isidor stood, and said "No, that's you Reichi."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:40 PM

QUOTE(Eyes Of the Wolf @ Jul 25 2005, 01:36 PM)

"So, how exactly did you notice me?." The altmer appeared to the log, now completely visible.

Shaka was startled to see the altmer, but said nothing from his seat on the other side of the campfire. Who's this, then? he thought.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 07:41 PM

Thom saw the stranger and put his hand on the hilt of Orome. "Who are you stranger? Oh, you are the newcomer from the tavern. You are lucky. I sense that no harm will come from you being here, but what I say is very secret. And I say that to all of you. Do not betray my trust." Thom untied the sack from his belt and held it in his hands. He opened it and brought out three vampire heads, one after another. He impaled them on a stake each and then pulled up his own log and sat. "That is the danger. Or was."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:44 PM

"Uh huh...so, let me get this straight, theres Vampires after you?" Reichi said, raising a eyebrow. "Like...a whole clan or something?" Reichi asked.
He seemed to ignore the Altmer's appearance, likely because he had known of the Altmer, through the Dagger Of Senses. Invisibility didn't block out sound, or smell.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:49 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 01:44 PM)

"One second," Shaka said. "Who are you, serjo?" he asked the newcomer.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:50 PM

"My name is Dastril, and I'm a Spellsword. Anything else you wanted to know?"

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 07:52 PM

"Quite the opposite. What I am going to tell you, only four people know of. Besides vampires of course." Thom looked deep into the fire and said, "I think I shall start with a story. Five years ago, an Imperial from Cyrodiil came back from Vvardenfell to visit his parents. He arrived to see the door bashed in." A tear rolled down Thoms cheek, but his voice was unwavering. "He rushed in, with his sword pulled, to see his mother dead and his father bleeding from dozens of wounds. A vampire stood over him. The Imperial went into a rage and beheaded the vampire after minutes of struggle. He bent down to his father and heard him say, 'One of four. Four will meet with only two things in common, but will leave with three. Four will meet with sorrow, and four will meet with vengence. One of four.' With that, the old Imperial male died. In his sons arms."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:53 PM

QUOTE(Eyes Of the Wolf @ Jul 25 2005, 01:50 PM)

"My name is Dastril, and I'm a Spellsword. Anything else you wanted to know?"

The Argonian battlemage said, "Meaning no disrespect, but what has brought you to Ald Raathim, and to this fire? Are you loyal to Dres Loranna, or to those who oppose her? Or to yourself?"

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 07:55 PM

Reichi's face darkened. "Geeze, you'd think your father could have been less mystical in talking about what the hell happened," he said. "I [censored] hate riddles. I take it you understand its' meaning?"

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 07:56 PM

"Some could call it a coincidence... I got lost on my way to a meeting, and decided to take a risk of using magical means of travel. The spell partially failed, and instead of getting there where I was meant to go, I got to the woods nearby. Then I overheard what Thom said to Isidor in the tavern, and decided to follow. And here I am."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 07:59 PM

QUOTE(Eyes Of the Wolf @ Jul 25 2005, 01:56 PM)

Shaka nodded as he listened, and decided to focus on Thom's story for now. The newcomer might not know it, but Shaka wouldn't be surprised if the spellsword had been meant to appear in Ald Raathim. Fate seemed to play a role in more than one of the adventurers' lives in this town.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:01 PM

Another tear came down his cheek. "No, not at that moment. Did you know that everything is predicted in one prophesy or another. Mine was my fate. Let me continue." Thom continued to look into the fire. "Sorrow took me first. That lasted only one day. Then vengence took my heart. I hunted them. I found out which clan that one was from and hunted them down. All of the paths I tread lead to one place. The fortress. Their fortress. My rage was so great that I attacked a group of vampires, alone. Death was on me. But the prophesy decided the battle. Three more creatures of Nirn attacked the fortress when I did." Thom paused for a breath.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 08:06 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 02:01 PM)

"I'm sorry for your losses, Thom. . . . Who were these three creatures you speak of?"

Posted by: One87xe Yesterday, 08:08 PM

*...After having her existense torn across Nirn, due to One's unfocused Recall spell, Ami slowly begins to wake in the wee hours of the morning...she finds herself in a small yurt with 2 others...reluctantly she begins to rise...*

"Wh...where am I" Ami asks weakily "...wait!! One!!"

"Hey relax" says a young Breton girl "Your injuries are pretty serious, you need time to rest"

"No...cant...must go back...One" Ami says as she slips back unconscious

"Will she live" asks the other figure

"She'll be fine in time" says the Breton "...but how did she end up on the snow plains? Doesn't she know how dangerous Solstheim can be?"

"Hmm...whats the One whositis she keeps asking for?" the figure asks

"I dont know...maybe thats the name of her Spear...or a companion" the Breton answers "By any means we'll discover the answer after shes rested" she continues "C'mon, lets go get some more firewood"

*The two figures leave out into the snow while Ami rests...uncertainty running through her head...

*"The Last Solarian Refuge" remains, Daybreak...One regains consciousness after sending Ami out of danger and using his magicka to destroy the threat on his life...alone and aimless he sets off on his quest to find not only Ami, but answers as well...even now he prepares in the underground storage facility unaffected by the gale force winds...*

*...he quickly dawns his new lightweight blend of Ebony and Mythril Chainmail, and the Blue Robe of Elementalism...he rearms himself with the Shifting Staff (a neat combo weapon of Staff, Spear, and Sword) and his two rings of Conjuration...he finally dones his Amulet of Reflect Magika and sets off on his quest, prepared for anything...*

*...The wolf Trefist is still engaging the stranger even as day begins to fall...he wonders about the prowess of one to be engaged against a wolf for such a prolonged period...exhausted and out of options he bolts across the plains as the stranger looks on...*

"Run, run little wolf...no one ever does get away from Uniqua" she smirks

*...the stranger sets off in the direction of Trefist...*

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:11 PM

"Together, we fought our way through the fortress, slaying all vampires that dared to come near. Our final and most fercious battle was in the forge, deep into the lair. There we slayed the final enemy. It was then that we all looked at eachother in full, and knew the prophesy had come true. The vampire smith had been working on melting a block of ebony. Suddenly we saw a vision, four black rings, glowing red; a block of ebony, a pile of vampire dust, and blood were sitting on the table beside the rings. We knew what we had to do. We sprinkled the dust onto the ebony. Then we each cut our hands letting our blood drip upon it. Then we made the rings." Thom held out his hand. "This ring is one of those four. I will tell of it more in a minute." Thom sighed, but his face glowed with honor. "We made a sacred oath in that forge. To hunt all vampires, regardless, and to keep to our new Brotherhood. We came to that place in sorrow and in vengence. We left with family and new found power."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 08:15 PM

"Interesting," Reichi said, clasping his hands together. "Shame you weren't around for when we cleaned out Balmora, you'd have enjoyed that."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:20 PM

"You are wondering about the rings and our power. Well, our power was great indeed. Our goal was to fight all vampires, but we needed help beyond ourselves. I am a normal being. Nothing special, except one thing. I may fall to Blight or other diseases, but I will never fall to Vampirism. We were granted it's immunity. By what or who, we shall never know." Thom smiled and looked at his hand. "The rings are mearly tools for the four." Thom looked at Shaka. "One is named Lugrom; he is a Nord. One is named Nomre; he is a Breton. The last is named Yaelinth; he is a Dunmer. We became The Harbingers. The rings are, of course, ebony. But whenever a vampire is near, it turns shades of red. The shade depends on the distance and strength. That is what I saw in the tavern. I knew the town was in danger. So I stopped it. That was my oath and I shall ever uphold the oath of The Harbingers."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 08:24 PM

"That's an impressive story, Thom. . . . Thanks to the Nerevarine, whoever she or he was, I don't think you need fear the Blight; but it's great that you can't become a vampire. I was never solely a vampire hunter myself; I managed to survive a few in the process of exploring dwemer ruins and tombs."

"So what happened to your three comrades?"

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:26 PM

"Only four people have known of the sacred group named The Harbingers, and those were their members...until now. We do keep in touch and journey together when the need is great, but we are powerful warriors against Vampirism. Vampires know of our existance and constantly wish to rid themselves of us, but they are afraid. They have named us Heralds of Death." Thom looked at each of the members of the group and said "That is part of my story. You wished to know, and now you know. Some of you might not believe it, but it is true. I am a Ranger, but I am also a Vampire Hunter. There are three heads to prove it." Thom smiled and waited for the responses.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 08:36 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 02:26 PM)

Isidor had sat in silence until now. "So, why have you come to Ald Rathiam?"

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:41 PM

Thom laughed. "My first conversation with Shaka was asking if you had seen my Ranger friend named Nylus. I was here, resting after looking for him. With the Blue Dawn, I have not seen a Vampire for a few months. Until now. Vamp Bane with forever shine against vampires."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 08:47 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 02:41 PM)

Shaka was silent for a moment, pondering. "I haven't mentioned this to you, Thom, and maybe you know already. There are rumors that House Dres has vampires within it, all the way to the top. Loranna has no connections with such, I believe, nor would her allies -- Dres Minsero, Dres Vendama, Obael."

"I've also heard rumors that the Telvanni are in bed with the vamps, but the Telvanni on Vvardenfell were decimated by the Blue Dawn. Some remain on the mainland here."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 08:52 PM

Thom looked at the ground and then at Shaka. "Loranna has no traces of vampire in anyway, nor does any in this town. But know that The Harbingers stop for no vampire. Dres, Hlaalu, Indoril, Telvanni, even Redoran. Makes no difference. The vampires you talk of are in the most danger. The Brotherhood hates Vampires with power over people more than anything walking Nirn. They will meet there end at our hand eventually."

"In some ways, it is fortunate that these three came when they did. I hear that Lady Loranna is fortifying the town against undead and hostile creatures. A skilled mage can use these heads as wards for the town."

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 09:05 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 02:52 PM)

"In some ways, it is fortunate that these three came when they did. I hear that Lady Loranna is fortifying the town against undead and hostile creatures. A skilled mage can use these heads as wards for the town."

"I don't know much about wards, Thom, but it sounds as if we should bag these up and take them to the castle then."

Shaka added, "I have alarm-type wards set into my left arm, but that's the extent of my knowledge." He removed a bracer to show the Glass beads set into his scales.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:07 PM

"Yes, we should take them to the castle. They are stinking up my camp." Thom placed the heads back into the bag and said, "Well, follow me back to town. We shall be there shortly." A short walk lead them to the entrance to the town, then to the castle.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 09:13 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 03:07 PM)

Dastril had decided to call it a night, so the spellsword returned to his tavern room.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:17 PM

"Since my confession, almost all I have heard is silence. Surprising? Shocking?" said Thom as he walked. "I am the same person I was alittle while ago, but now I am fully revealed."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 09:18 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 25 2005, 03:05 PM)

"Thats handy..." Reichi muttered. "They even vaguely resemble scales due to color..."

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 09:21 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 03:17 PM)

"Since my confession, almost all I have heard is silence. Surprising? Shocking?" said Thom as he walked. "I am the same person I was alittle while ago, but now I am fully revealed."

"Are vampires hunting you still? Will they come here?"

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 09:22 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 03:18 PM)

"Thats handy..." Reichi muttered. "They even vaguely resemble scales due to color..."

As they walked back to town, Shaka nodded to Reichi and said, "They're only active when I sleep, but they're a general threat alarm."

Shaka then spoke to Thom. "In a way, I can see that the role of Ranger could go with being a vampire hunter. You're serving the cause of Life either way, the natural versus the unnatural."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:27 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 02:21 PM)

"Are vampires hunting you still? Will they come here?"

"Only the bravest of the brave try to hunt the Heralds of Death. My current strength is just that of a mortal man, but against vampiric foes, my strength is tenfold. There will be no problems if vampires attack us. Then you will see how I truely am in combat. When you first see the terrible power the Four hold, you will make extra precautions not to become a vampire." Thom smiled. "You know, it is possible we might meet The Thief, The Warrior, or The Mage in our travels."

"Yes, Shaka. You know of my passion. Balance. And revenge. There will always be vampires, but that mean there will always be The Harbingers."

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 09:28 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 03:27 PM)

"Well, that's taking away from our fun, isn't it?" He laughed and clapped Thom on the shoulder "I like you, Thom. I don't like many Imperials, but I like you."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 09:32 PM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 03:27 PM)

"Yes, Shaka. You know of my passion. Balance. And revenge. There will always be vampires, but that mean there will always be The Harbingers."

"Unless those rings grant you the ability to live eternally, that statement is untrue Thom," Reichi said. "Unless you intend to pass it down to your descendants or something."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:34 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 02:28 PM)

"Well, that's taking away from our fun, isn't it?" He laughed and clapped Thom on the shoulder "I like you, Thom. I don't like many Imperials, but I like you."

"You are good in my mind too, Isidor. And are you all. Never have I found people I trust so well that I have only known for such a short time." Thom smiled.

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:38 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Jul 25 2005, 02:32 PM)

"Unless those rings grant you the ability to live eternally, that statement is untrue Thom," Reichi said. "Unless you intend to pass it down to your descendants or something."

"There will always be a Harbinger. Descendants or selected. But know this, if there are no Harbingers left but one, he will live until there are more. Whatever granted us this power knows what it wants. It wants vampirism destroyed. There will always be a Harbinger and at least one Vamp Bane will survive."

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 09:42 PM

Reichi flashed a wolfish grin. "Or perhaps, it wishes to propagate the hunt."

Posted by: f15tray22 Yesterday, 09:44 PM

"I am mearly a tool, though I am a willing tool" Thom said.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 11:45 PM

That evening, the others had gone to tell Loranna about the vampire hunters and possible wards. Shaka stood in his room and saw the rain begin to fall.

Wearing only breeches, Shaka walked out to the castle battlements, then climbed higher, to a roof. He stood with his eyes closed and head tilted back.

It was a true summer rain in Ald Raathim, but without lightning. The Glass, Ebony, Dreugh shell, and hardwood in his ears gleamed as the water washed over Shaka. The rain fell, now vertical, now sideways.

On impulse, Shaka ran to the edge of the pitched roof and out over the walls. He invoked Slowfall and drifted to the courtyard below, hitting the cobblestones running.

Shaka ran to the bay and continued atop the water, grinning in exultation. He had cast the Water Walking spell. He ran, parallel to the beach but not caring whether to west or east.

Knowing a few mage spells could be like that on a good day, feeling like you would live forever.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 01:51 AM

Isidor took it upon himself to tell Loranna of the Vampires, and of Thom's strange tale. He made his way over to her quarters, and knocked on the door. "Dres Loranna?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:59 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 07:51 PM)

Isidor took it upon himself to tell Loranna of the Vampires, and of Thom's strange tale. He made his way over to her quarters, and knocked on the door. "Dres Loranna?"

Loranna looks up from the paperwork that had been making her frown. She gets up and opens the door, the annoyance at her reports fading as she regards Isidor curiously.

"Yes dear, what is it?" she asks. "You're fully recovered from our little foray earlier, yes?"

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:00 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 07:51 PM)

Isidor took it upon himself to tell Loranna of the Vampires, and of Thom's strange tale. He made his way over to her quarters, and knocked on the door. "Dres Loranna?"

After a while, Shaka had had a good run. He turned for shore, and the spell wore off. He plunged into the bay as it did, and swam the rest of the way to the beach.

Shaka ran back to the castle, checking in with guards who raised their eyebrows at the sight of the Argonian but waved him through.

Shaka towelled off in his room and changed into a robe. Perhaps others of the group were talking to Loranna by now. He decided to check in with her.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:03 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 07:59 PM)

"Yes, yes. After a few sandwiches and a few waters. I've come to inquire about something a little bit more important. Do you remember Thom, the ranger that was following our group?"

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:05 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:03 PM)

"Yes, yes. After a few sandwiches and a few waters. I've come to inquire about something a little bit more important. Do you remember Thom, the ranger that was following our group?"

Shaka paused and knocked on the doorjamb to let the two know he was there. After inclining his head to Loranna and nodding to Isidor, Shaka stood silently by.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:06 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:03 PM)

"Yes, yes. After a few sandwiches and a few waters. I've come to inquire about something a little bit more important. Do you remember Thom, the ranger that was following our group?"

Loranna briefly remembers her brief time in Narsis when Isidor mentions having some water. The memory of drinking from the fingerbowl makes her feel embarrassed all over again.

"Not mead?" she asks, covering her embarrassement with her surprise. "And he briefly introduced himself to me earlier, but I haven't really gotten to know him yet. Why? What's going on?"

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 08:06 PM)

"I ust didn't really want any this morning. Well, about Thom..." he recounts what Thom had told the group.

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:12 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:09 PM)

"I just didn't really want any this morning. Well, about Thom..." he recounts what Thom had told the group.

Shaka watched the two. After his run, he was tempted to sweep the papers off Loranna's desk and . . .
Well, she was looking good, that was all. He smiled wryly at the thought.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:12 AM

Loranna nods to Shaka as he enters, then listens to Isidor's story.

" ... So, let me see if I have this straight," she says when Isidor finishes. "Thom is part of a small group of dedicated vampire hunters, who have rings which let them detect vampires and who seem to be working at the behest of a higher power, and there were some vampires around the other night that he killed? Have I missed anything big?"

She looks at Shaka as well as Isidor questioningly.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:13 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 08:12 PM)

"Not that I can remember."

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:17 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:13 PM)

"Not that I can remember."

"That's about it, Dres Loranna," confirmed Shaka. "I've never heard of a Ranger who was also a vampire hunter, but Thom is very confident about it."

"I hope you don't have colleagues with ties to vampires; things could get complicated around here. Or we could attempt to get Thom to temper his zeal. It might be difficult, though."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:22 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 25 2005, 08:17 PM)

"We cured the only mer to contract vampirism in our group a while ago," Loranna says, with a wry expression. "Right at the same time when we beat down the vampires who had taken Balmora after Hogithum."

She shrugs a little. "Vampires are people - people who either got caught without any sort of cure disease magic for days after meeting another vampire, or else people who thought vampirism was something worth keeping. Seems you meet more from the latter school of thought than the former, though."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 02:29 AM

Anya was walking along the castle halls, after fixing her equipment and getting in some more archery practice. She was feeling quite good about her skills, and thought that she could comfortably use it in a fight now.

Hearing a few of her companions, she headed towards Loranna's room and saw Isidor and Shaka there as well. Catching the last part about a ranger vampire hunter, she looked up.

"A vampire hunter, here in Ald Raathim, is there something I missed while couped up in my room?"

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:32 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Jul 25 2005, 08:29 PM)

Hearing a few of her companions, she headed towards Loranna's room and saw Isidor and Shaka there as well. Catching the last part about a ranger vampire hunter, she looked up.

"A vampire hunter, here in Ald Raathim, is there something I missed while couped up in my room?"

"Evening, Anya. I don't know how much chance you've had to talk with Thom, but it turns out he's a vampire-hunter as well as a ranger. I'll shut up for a second so the others can fill you in better."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:33 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 25 2005, 08:32 PM)

"Evening, Anya. I don't know how much chance you've had to talk with Thom, but it turns out he's a vampire-hunter as well as a ranger. I'll shut up for a second so the others can fill you in better."

"I'm still learning myself about this," Loranna says. "Hello Anya; how are you doing?"

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 02:41 AM

Thom knocked on the door to the room where the group had gathered, dicussing him. He heard their doubt, and didn't blame them. Thom entered and looked at the group. Their faces told the story. "Let me explain more. What I said seems large and grand and, in some aspect, divine. But that is not the case."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 02:48 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 06:33 PM)

"I'm still learning myself about this," Loranna says. "Hello Anya; how are you doing?"

"Quite well, thank you." Anya averted her eyes, still not comfortablw with her. She settle herself down so she could listen to Thom's explanation.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:52 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 08:41 PM)

Loranna notices Anya's expression but doesn't comment; no point in pushing things.

"Hello Thom; please, go on," she says, motioning for wine to be brought for everyone. "I'm curious to hear more."

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 02:55 AM

Thom looked into each of there eyes in turn and said, "I said the word tenfold, which was the entirely wrong word. Yes, the rings detect vampires, and yes, we are immune to vampirism. The Four get more powerful against vampires, yes, but not to the extent I accidentally spoke about. Right now, I am a completely normal man. Killed with one good hit. But against vampires, the Four can endure more damage and deal greater blows. Three or four vampires at a time is difficult, but possible for us. More than five will mean our doom." Thom looked at the group. "As for the prophesy, everything is prophesized in one way or another. Whoever is pulling the strings behind the Four will not show itself. We chose our destiny we formed our Brotherhood."

Posted by: One87xe Today, 02:57 AM

*...the Yurt Solstheim...as morning turns into afternoon Ami finally finds the strength to rise from the mat...staggering she re-equips herself and is attempting to leave when the strangers return...*

"Hey...what are you doing out of---" the Breton starts

*Before she can finish she finds Ami's Spear at her throat...*

"Wh...where am I" Ami asks

"Your on Solstheim...in our Yurt to be precise...now if you dont mind putting your weapon lower..." the Breton states as she moves the tip away from her neck

"I...I have to go back...must go back..." Ami says

"Well I really dont think your in any position to travel, but if you must I'll accompany you as far as Fort Frostmouth...there you can find healers and transportation to wherever it is you need to go" the Breton continues

"Very...well...I apologize for earlier...my names Ami by the way" Ami said

"Oh, I see...well I'm called Sona and that's Hurst" Sona says

*...the Nordic gentleman in the corner gives a nod...

"Pleased...to meet you..." Ami says "shall we..."

*Ami and Sona begin to leave the Yurt...*

"Wait..." says Hurst "You'd best to be careful...theres a feirce storm a brewing...I'd wait if I were you"

"No...must go..." Ami says

"She seems pretty determined Hurst...keep an eye on the place while I'm gone" Sona states

"I'd keep my guard up if I were you, Sona I dont feel right about this one..." Hurst grumbles as the pair walk off

*...as Ami and her traveling companion set of for Fort Frostmouth, One is finding his way to Cyrodiil City...*

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 03:02 AM

"The way I told the story was a very simplified version of the events." continued Thom. "It was much more mystic than I described. See, each of the other Three had the same experience I did. They all lost loved ones to vampires. We came together there, in that forge, vengeful, but we left with a bond. Whether it was forced on us, or no, it is done and we wished that. As for the visions, I cannot answer. When we made the oath, we were still angry beyond anger, but we were calm. I have never seen a vampire that did not attack on sight. I might just have never seen the right one, but all the ones I have killed gave in to the thrist." Thom took an empty chair and looked over the group. "I will answer any questions that any have."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:06 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 09:02 PM)

Thom's story has Loranna feeling somewhat bemused; she wasn't quite sure what to make of all this. Then again, she had heard - and lived through - stranger events.

" ... Well, one question for you," Loranna asks. "Supposing you did meet a vampire that had come to regret their state, or by some chance had not chosen to be a vampire in the first place and was trying not to give in to the bloodthirst. What would you and your companions do then?"

Posted by: syronj Today, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 09:06 PM)

While Loranna was asking this, Shaka glanced over to Anya and tried to reassure her with his look. If you trust me, then trust her as well, he thought.

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 03:10 AM

Thom stared at the wall. There was a long silence. Thom finally answered. "I do not know. It is something that we do not expect. If I met one in that situation, I would have to rely on the wisdom of my companions. I do feel remorse for them even through all. It is possible that whatever gave us this power is using us for its own means, and not for the betterment of the world. That is The Four's goal."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:19 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 09:10 PM)

"I don't mean to be rude, but I'd be a bit pensive being the pawn of a power I didn't understand," Loranna comments dryly. "Or in being a pawn of any sort for that matter ... have you or your companions ever tried to learn the source of your abilities? Any idea where they spring from at all?"

She mulls over what Thom has said so far, wondering what his fellow Harbingers are like.

Posted by: Arynel Today, 03:21 AM

At that moment the dimension of space the conversation and those partaking therein occupied was made to allow the presence of a cloaked Breton, which is to say he arrived unexpectedly, probably walking up silently while the others were talking.

“I would inquire,” the Breton interjected, “how it is that you are able to combat vampires so efficiently.”

Posted by: Ritual Today, 03:23 AM

Rymlin had escaped the prison, but not the city. He had enchanted the lock on the door before leaving, and it would take either a powerful mage or a master thief to enter the prison. He was counting on at least an hour before the entire town was on the lookout for him. Moving as hastily as possible, without being conspicuous, he made his way to a small back alley behind the tavern. There, he rumaged through the various item he had removed from the evidence chest. Searching in the darkness of the alleyway, his fingers came over a soft, smooth material. He pulled out a hooded black robe. Reaching in again, he produced a dark purple scarf, with crimson embroidery. He dressed himself in the robe, and wrapped the scarf around his mouth, covering all but his eyes. "Well, what to do with the rest?" muttered Rymlin, looking at the rest of his trinkets and enchantments. "Most will have to stay I suppose." With that, he put on every ring and amulet he could fit, and took his purse. Regretfully, Rymlin left the alleyway, leaving a small fortune in various magical instruments behind him. Finding his way to the boat, Rymlin stepped aboard, and opened his purse before the sailor. "One thousand drakes are yours if we sail for Ald Raathim immediately. Five hundred now, five hundred when we reach the shore." said Rymlin, drawing shut the hefty purse. "What say you?"

The boatman became weak in the knees at the sight of so much gold. "Why of course, anything you ask. I'd be glad to help." the Dunmer held out a grubby cloth sack, which Rymlin took "Sort it out as we go, I wouldn't want to keep you waiting." said the mer, moving to the ship's mast, and beginning to undo the knots holding down the sail. "We'll have you there in no time at all!"

Rymlin went into the cabin and began sorting the gold. For the sake of speed, he placed all 1,000 septims into the pouch, He then lay down in the bunk, waiting for his arrival, and trying to imagine what he would do next.

A day and a half later, Rymlin stepped onto the dock of Ald Raathim. He imagined that he would be safe in Dres territory for some time. The first order of business was to procure some quarters for the night, which was fast approaching. Finding the nearest tavern, he sat down at the bar and undid his scarf.

"What would ye like?" said a large Dunmer "We have ev'ry ting ye needs, Flin, Matze, Suja..."

"Comberry juice, and some scuttle." said Rymlin, in no mood to for talk.

The barkeep looked somewhat frustrated and said in a sarcastic tone "Rie away sir." as he went off to fetch the order.

Rymlin placed his gold on the bar as his food arrived. "How much for a room?" he asked, putting a fork into this scuttle.

"Fifty drakes, good fer one night."

Rymlin placed the money on the bar, and ate his meal, lost in thought.

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 03:24 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Jul 25 2005, 07:08 PM)

While Loranna was asking this, Shaka glanced over to Anya and tried to reassure her with his look. If you trust me, then trust her as well, he thought.

Anya saw Shaka glance her way, but didn't acknowledge him.

Posted by: One87xe Today, 03:24 AM

*...The Westernmost Great Bridge...Cyrodiil...as One approaches the city he makes his way across to a small Tavern called "The Green Flask"...a frequent hangout of charactors of the night...the smell of Skooma and Mead can be smelled even down the block...as One enters the Tavern, he notices very few people for such a delightful spot...the scent of death, however, hangs heavy in the air...*

"Evening, barkeep...rather slow night wouldn't you say?"

"Ahh...it comes and goes..." the barkeep answers

*...not entirely convinced of his honesty, One probes deeper...*

"Hmm...so I guess you wouldn't know where the gambling action is?"

"...couldn't help you..." the barkeep responds

*...impatient and on edge One grabs the barkeep by his neck and slams him into the bar...*

"Now...maybe you can help me...Shape One"

*...the Shifting Staff assumes its first form: an Ebony Staff with the bust of a Ram upon it...the rams eyes glow with fire...the barkeep can feel the heat resonating within...*

"Wait...I...ok...ok..." the barkeep screams as he grabs for a selected bottle of Flin "...downstairs..now put that thing away!!"

*...One says the incantation and the Staff resumes its original form...he drops the barkeep and proceeds downstairs...the stink of death is nearly overwhelming...when he reaches the bottom he is startled to find a door nearly half his size...as he proceeds through a putridly grotesque fat Vampire sets resting upon two logs...there appears to be a teleportation device of some kind behind him...One proceeds with his Shehai at the ready...*

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 03:28 AM

"Just one more mystery" Thom said to the Breton. "I have thought long about my oath and my Brothers, and it has been eating at my heart. Something is controlling us. I wish to learn what is doing this to me. Even if it costs me my powers, I wish to learn who's pawn I am." Thom stared at the floor. "I need to get ahold of the other three. Hold a council."

Posted by: Arynel Today, 03:34 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 07:28 PM)

Arynel eyed Thom for a moment.

“Tell me, if you would,” the Breton said, “why hunt vampires at all? Simply for the sake of revenge?”

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 03:39 AM

Thom looked confused. Never had he hesitated to hunt the vampires. Neither did the others. The question left him deeply beside himself. "I...I don't know." The vision and the voice in his head seemed so right that he never questions it. But now, for the first time he looked at his reasons. "The voice said for the protection of the world. I don't know what I am doing." Suddenly there was the same voice in his head that had been there many years ago. Its said, "Don't listen to them. They do not know what has happened to you and they care not. Heed my words." Thom looked at the ring and said, "It has controlled me. I need help."

Posted by: Arynel Today, 03:44 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 07:39 PM)

Arynel nodded solemnly, and then looked Thom in the eye.

“Would you be free of this if you were able?” The Breton inquired. “Many times a hunger of such force as this, even if misunderstood, becomes a drive so powerful that to end it would destroy the man who houses it.”

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:45 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 09:39 PM)

Loranna's expression softens as she sees the confused, conflicted look in Thom's eyes.

"It might help to take the ring off, keep it away from you," she suggests. "I'm not certain though. And we still don't know who or what is behind your abilities ..."

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 03:50 AM

Thom looked at Loranna and saw compassion. Thom put his fingers about it and tugged alittle. The voice came back, angry. "OBEY. You are mine and no others! Keep the ring on!" Thom stopped for a moment, but finally took full control of himself. He ripped off the ring.
Everything happened so fast. When the ring came off his ringer, it broke into two pieces. Then, instantly, Thom was on the ground, unconsious.
In his forced sleep, Thom saw the owner of the voice. It was an ancient vampire, sitting on a stone carved lie a throne. He was angry. Thom saw his mind, for a brief second. He wished us to kill all rivals. He had used the others. Killed them for disobedience. But he could not reach Thom anymore.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 04:00 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 09:50 PM)

Loranna thinks to herself Next time, let the Breton make the suggestions girl as she swiftly goes to Thom's side, checking him over.

" ... He's alive ..." she says, casting what healing magic she thought would help Thom in his condition. She looks over at the broken ring, grimacing.

" ... Next time, remind me to suggest acting cautiously first," she mutters.

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 04:03 AM

Thom awoke soon after the spells were cast. Tears came from his eyes once again, but he kept his composure. "It is done." Thom sat against the wall, and told them what he saw. Ending he said, "The final thing I saw in the mind of the Ancient Vampire, was my father standing to the right of him; I was his pawn the whole time. But it is no more." Thom wiped his eyes and stared at the wall.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 04:07 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Jul 25 2005, 10:00 PM)

Isidor had watched the situation unfold, a bemused look on his face. "You certainly have an effect over people, Arynel." he says, looking at the Breton.

Posted by: syronj Today, 04:12 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:03 PM)

"Thom, I'm sorry," said Shaka. "Do you mean that the vampire ... converted your father long ago, when your mother was killed? Or that your father was his willing servant?"

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 04:12 AM

"I fear that he would have driven me to harm some of you. It is very fortunate that Aryvel spoke when he did. I now have one more Vampire to kill." Thom tried to stand, but couldn't at the moment.
Thom looked at Shaka and said, "Thank you. He was turned that day. I didn't see it, and I wouldn't have. He betrayed my family. I now have two more Vampires to kill."

Posted by: Arynel Today, 04:13 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:07 PM)

Isidor had watched the situation unfold, a bemused look on his face. "You certainly have an effect over people, Arynel." he says, looking at the Breton.

Arynel stared discerningly at Isidor for a moment.

“People cheer when the lord of the manor is present, and people curse at the criminal when he is caught,” the Breton said, “People are as they will be.”

Posted by: Loranna Today, 04:13 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:03 PM)

Loranna puts a comforting hand on Thom's shoulder, giving her best reassuring smile.

Even as she does, she thinks to herself that Thom's ordeal is probably not over yet ...

Posted by: Ritual Today, 04:14 AM

Rymlin looked at his food, and his mind began to slip. He had lost almost everything he had now, just like back then...

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

Rymlin was sixteen again, and he was returning home from his "honest" work. Looking down the canton street, he saw a group of ordinators standing outside a house. "I wonder what they're doing... someone must have been murdered. The temple never sends that many guards for us peasants." Rymlin said to himself, walking down the street with some groceries. Coming closer, Rymlin saw that they were at his house. He dropped the sack and began to run, coming up to his door, one of the golden-clad warriors grabbed the back of his shirt and held him back.

Regarding Rymlin through his sculptured mask, he asked in a voice reeking with misplaced authority "What do you think you're doing? This is temple business. Get out of here son, it's got nothing to do with you." the ordinator threw him back, and resumed his position at the door.

"That's my house!" shouted Rymlin, standing up and trying again to pass the guard. "Where's my mother? What happened to her?" Rymlin began to pull in the guard's grasp, the threads of his shirt tearing as he struggled.

"Your mother has been killed, under order of the Temple. By the mercy of Almsivi, she was sacrificed for the greater good." said an aged priest, placing his hand on the shoulder of the Ordinator, causing him to release his grasp. "Her condition was a threat to all of Vivec, but I assure you, she passed quickly and painlessly." the priest looked at Rymlin, as he said these words, gauging the boy's reaction.

Rymlin was on his hands and knees, tears streaming from his face. "Mercy? Is that what you call it?" Rymlin said, his hair surrounding his face. He began to breathe harder, his eyes began to glow. "Is there no mercy for the weak?"

The priest took a step back and gasped as Rymlin arose. "Vivec shield us!" the mer exclaimed, as Rymlin rose, his face consumed with hatred, his red eyes turned almost black.

The boy's hand glowed with a blue flame, as he thrust it into the priest's stomach. The man screamed and fell back, the shape of a hand burned into his gut. An ordinator was quick to react, and swung his mace into the back of Rymlin's head, knocking the boy unconscious.

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

About five minutes after appearing to doze off, Rymlin awoke violently from his memory, unleashing a telekinetic wave that shattered every bottle within ten feet of him. The mer quickly stood, and hastily retreated to his room, shutting the door behind him, and locking it with every means at his disposal. Breathing heavily, he sat down on the bed, and looked at his hands. Staring at the ground, Rymlin sat, thinking about his past, and trying his best not to recall any more. He lay down in his bed, and consumed a small vial of liquid. In no time, he was asleep.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 04:16 AM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Jul 25 2005, 10:13 PM)

"But what happens when the lord of the manor, is the criminal?"

Posted by: Arynel Today, 04:19 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Jul 25 2005, 08:16 PM)

"But what happens when the lord of the manor, is the criminal?"

Arynel answered without pause.

“I asked you this same question, or a variant thereof, just a few days ago.”

The Breton raised his brow for an instant.

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 04:22 AM

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I need a stiff drink." Thom finally stood. His strength quickly return. He felt as though a great burden was lifted from his back. Thom looked around and smiled. "Mysteries solved in a very short time. Long beginnings make short endings I guess. I will pay for the first round or two."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 04:28 AM

QUOTE(f15tray22 @ Jul 25 2005, 10:22 PM)

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I need a stiff drink. Thom finally stood. His strength quickly return. He felt as though a great burden was lifted from his back. Thom looked around and smiled. "Mysteries solved in a very short time. Long beginnings make short endings I guess. I will pay for the first round or two."

Loranna, sweeping up the broken ring into a pouch, raises her eyebrows. "A little mead could be nice ..." she says. "I wouldn't be so quick to say this is totally over, though."

She stands up, looking to the others. " ... Well, shall we?" she asks, keeping an eye on Thom while she talks.

===

And the party gets utterly smashed! ... In the next topic.

LOCK ON!!!

Loranna

Posted by: f15tray22 Today, 04:30 AM

"Mead sounds great." Thom looked thoughtfully at Loranna. While walking, Thom fell back beside Loranna and whispered, "Nothing is ever over."