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

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 05:07 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, waiting for her friends to return from Dagon Fel. She has just recently pledged her support to Queen Baernziah, and has been gifted with a magic mirror that will allow her to communicate with people from great distances. She and the Queen are having a light-hearted discussion about men on the very cliff where Symanchus proposed to Barenziah.

Posted by: Nalion Yesterday, 05:14 AM

Summary: Ald Raathim
After spending the greater part of the night at the top of a tower in Ald Raathim watching the stars, Nalion retreated back to his chamber. His expression was tired and slightly disappointed, but not troubled.
"Still need time.", he muttered as he climbed into his bed. Shortly after that, he was sleeping. And dreaming.

Posted by: Sir Radont Yesterday, 05:14 AM

The Imperial Knight paced around the castle in Ald Raathim, reading. He'd taken up an interest in the many books in the library and walked through the halls, flipping pages and steering around servants and guests while keeping his gaze firmly on the words.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 05:14 AM

OOC Summary

The Dunmer Reichi is with the others in a Cave near Dagon Fel, after killing a bunch 'o slavers, and the group is now discussing what to do with the slavers, then plans to go to sadrith Mora.

Posted by: Ritual Yesterday, 05:18 AM

Summary-
Rymlin, now know as Ash, has joined the group and helped in kiling many of the slavers. Now he stands with the rest contemplating their current actions.

Posted by: Moonblink Yesterday, 05:18 AM

OOC Summary:
Ahjaar is waiting on the ship for the other, impateint to get to Sadith Mora.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 05:19 AM

OOC:

Isidor, the most attractive male nord on the planet, is discussing plans for going to Sadrith Mora with the group, to rescue Ahjaar's daughter, Luxi.

Posted by: Argonians rule Yesterday, 05:22 AM

Falco Redflash the male argonian rogue is currently wiping the blood off his saber and looting the corpses of his enemies along with The bloodthirsty slaves who are now protesting loudly that Blade and H be killed. After all they were the ones enslaved and tormented by them and wish to see all of the slavers dead.

Posted by: S'reddit Yesterday, 05:23 AM

Summary

Barenziah, legendary Queen Mother and current Regent of Mournhold, while her son King Helseth lies dying in Mournhold, is in Ald Raathim, having secured an alliance with Loranna. She is relaxing now, but must shortly leave from Necrom.

Goranthir, a handsome, 16-year-old natural ranger who can speak with animals – and who is, semi-secretly, Barenziah’s grandson – is with the group on the way to Sadrith Mora, having had his first taste of the adventurer’s life he has craved.

Ooc -- He’s going to be quiet for a while, since I’m going to be off-line, but he’s there.

Posted by: Ritual Yesterday, 05:23 AM

Ash silently walks off into a corner and summons a Flame Atronach. Pulling out a soulgem, he gives it to the beast to consume. "That should keep you for a while. Now, when everyone leaves, I want you to free the woman. I could care less about the man." the Atronach groans in understanding. Ash accompne the est of e group and folows them to Sadrith Mora.

OOC: I'm done for the night. See you all later.

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 05:29 AM

Summary: Anya is a Wood Elf rogue with blonde hair tied into a tight bun and a cherry tatto on her left cheek. She's walking through the woods after chatting with the captain of the gaurd in the Drunken Guar tavern.

Posted by: Moonblink Yesterday, 05:30 AM

****************

After a day's travel, The shop docks at Sadith Mora.

Ahjaar rushes of the boat, and waited for the others.

Posted by: Sir Radont Yesterday, 05:33 AM

QUOTE(Moonblink @ Aug 5 2005, 11:30 PM)

****************

After a day's travel, The shop docks at Sadith Mora.

Ahjaar rushes of the boat, and waited for the others.

Radont, his nose still in a book, steps outside unknowingly and walks in casual circles on the lawn.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 05:40 AM

QUOTE(Moonblink @ Aug 5 2005, 11:30 PM)

****************

After a day's travel, The shop docks at Sadith Mora.

Ahjaar rushes of the boat, and waited for the others.

Reichi followed Ahjaar off the boat, heading towards Sadrith Mora. "C'mon, the slave markets are this way, she's most likely somewhere there," he said.

Posted by: Moonblink Yesterday, 05:46 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Aug 5 2005, 11:40 PM)

Reichi followed Ahjaar off the boat, heading towards Sadrith Mora. "C'mon, the slave markets are this way, she's most likely somewhere there," he said.

Ahjaar nodded and hurryed off with Reichi to the slave market.
She saw the ramp with the cages, and she ran ahead.
"Luxi?" She called, as she flew up the ramp.

She cam to the third cage, where a girl cowered.
The girl was an dumer, but had cat ears and a tail.
"Luxi!" Ahjaar cried, reaching into the cage.
Luxi's eyes brighten when she saw Ahjaar. "Mommey!"

A bosmer tapped Ahjaar on the shoulder. "That one, sera, is
1000 gold."

Ahjaar's eyes filled with hate. "How dare you! This is my daughter!"
She reached for her dagger, but was stopped by Reichi.

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 05:53 AM

QUOTE(Moonblink @ Aug 5 2005, 11:46 PM)

Ahjaar's eyes filled with hate. "How dare you! This is my daughter!"
She reached for her dagger, but was stopped by Reichi.

Reichi looked to the Bosmer, and his voice took on a diplomatic tone. Not a tone he used frequently. "Here Sera," he said, handing the bosmer a sack containing 1,000 gold. Reichi took satisfaction in that he had used 'Sera' instead of 'Serjo', which was akin to calling the Bosmer 'Miss', rather than 'Mister', and that the Bosmer would never know the difference.

Posted by: Moonblink Yesterday, 05:58 AM

QUOTE(Aki @ Aug 5 2005, 11:53 PM)

The bosmer opened the cage and gave Ahjaar the key.
Luxi leaped into her arms and they hugged for a few long moments.

OOC: Awww... so happy Well I may be off to bed now, I donno..

Posted by: Aki Yesterday, 06:01 AM

Reichi stood nearby, feeling a bit out of place. He scratched the back of his head, and waited for Ahjaar and Luxi to finish. He noticed the Bosmer didn't exactly look to comfortable either, and shrugged at the short elf.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Yesterday, 06:36 AM

OOC:

Tris Gaerington, a young male Breton... is going to meet up with the group in Sadrith Mora, after taking the prisoners to Dagon Fel and alerting the Imperial Legion at Wolverine Hall to the existence of the ebony smugglers. Ritual's atronach, and the more bloodthirsty members of the group, will just have to deal.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:21 AM

Having made her decision regarding Barenziah, Loranna goes to speak with those who should know. Most of her companions were gone right now, or busy; they she would tell later. Dram and Kallen she informed easily enough, as they were right in the castle.

There were others in town, one of whom she had hoped to speak to beforehand. Helgi, of the Nords. Loranna sets out now to see the Hagslayer, to inform him of her decision.

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 07:48 AM

Nords. Aricyn had brought an army of them to battle the Azurites. They had fought at Red Mountain, and they had fought to protect Ald Rathiim. When the war was over, they had settled there, rebuilding what was destroyed and making Daruhn their new home. The signs of their labors were hard to miss; The great Hall of Smiths rose, with carved eaves and smoking chimneys, from the hill just south of town. Ships with leering dragons for prows still floated in the docks, and it was not uncommon to hear distinctly un-Dunmer laughter issuing from the tavern windows.

Most of the Nords themselves, however, had taken to living in the foothills west of the town and castle. A rocky path led up that way, eventually ending in a grassy valley, lined on both sides with small, round, stone houses. At the end of the valley were two buildings of much grander proportions. One was a great wooden stable, where the sturdy ponies of the Nord warriors lived more comfortably than their masters. The other was the Great Hall.

The hull of a great Nordic warship, turned upside-down, formed the Hall's long roof, and its stone walls were already showing the attentions of master carvers, with bearded faces and rearing horses decorating the wide main entrance.

It was in this hall that the chief of the Nords, the snowy-maned Tongue, Aricin, lived. The Chief had left some time ago, however, and no one was certain when he might return. In his absence, the young Helgi Hagslayer spoke for the Nords. The lad was so young as to not yet be able to grow a beard. This fact alone might have stopped him from being recognized as leader but for two facts:

Firstly, Helgi Hagslayer had not only gotten his name by finally destroying the Azurite hag that had held their entire village hostage back in Skyrim, but he had also fought his way through an endless horde of Azurites at Red Moutain, to retrieve the army's banner when it had fallen into the ash.

Secondly, Aricyn, the Chief himself, was also too young to grow a beard.

Helgi was not to be found sitting on the wolfskin-covered chair of the Chief, however, but was behind the Great Hall, swinging a heavy axe, his young shoulders rippling with muscles, and his soft blonde hair stuck to his back with sweat. Beside him, a pile of firewood grew taller and taller with each swing of his axe.

Seeing Loranna approach, he laid the axe down and wiped his brow, smiling at her.

"I've been wondering if you might come see me," he said.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 07:51 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 01:48 AM)

Nords. Aricyn had brought an army of them to battle the Azurites. They had fought at Red Mountain, and they had fought to protect Ald Rathiim. When the war was over, they had settled there, rebuilding what was destroyed and making Daruhn their new home. The signs of their labors were hard to miss; The great Hall of Smiths rose, with carved eaves and smoking chimneys, from the hill just south of town. Ships with leering dragons for prows still floated in the docks, and it was not uncommon to hear distinctly un-Dunmer laughter issuing from the tavern windows.

Most of the Nords themselves, however, had taken to living in the foothills west of the town and castle. A rocky path led up that way, eventually ending in a grassy valley, lined on both sides with small, round, stone houses. At the end of the valley were two buildings of much grander proportions. One was a great wooden stable, where the sturdy ponies of the Nord warriors lived more comfortably than their masters.

The other was the Great Hall. The hull of a great Nordic warship, turned upside-down, formed the building's long roof, and its stone walls were already showing the attentions of master carvers, with bearded faces and rearing horses carved around the wide main entrance.

It was in this hall that the chief of the Nords, the snowy-maned Tongue, Aricin, lived. The Chief had left some time ago, however, and no one was certain when he might return. In his absence, the young Helgi Hagslayer spoke for the Nords. The lad was so young as to not yet be able to grow a beard. This fact alone might have stopped him from being recognized as leader but for two facts:

Firstly, Helgi Hagslayer had not only gotten his name by finally destroying the Azurite hag that had held their entire village hostage back in Skyrim, but he had also fought his way through an endless horde of Azurites at Red Moutain, to retrieve the army's banner when it had fallen into the ash.

Secondly, Aricyn, the Chief himself, was also too young to grow a beard.

Helgi was not to be found sitting on the wolfskin-covered chair of the Chief, however, but was behind the Great Hall, swinging a heavy axe, his young shoulders rippling with muscles, and his soft blonde hair stuck to his back with sweat. Beside him, a pile of firewood grew taller and taller with each swing of his axe.

Seeing Loranna approach, he laid the axe down and wiped his brow, smiling at her.

"I've been wondering if you might come see me," he said.

"I'd been hoping you'd come to the castle; I sent messages inviting you," Loranna says, grinning a little.

"No word from Aricyn yet?" she asks at first, her eyebrows raised questioningly.

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 07:57 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 5 2005, 11:51 PM)

"I'd been hoping you'd come to the castle; I sent messages inviting you," Loranna says, grinning a little.

"No word from Aricyn yet?" she asks at first, her eyebrows raised questioningly.

"He'll return when he returns," the young man said without a trace of worry in his voice.

"I try to avoid the castle, when I can, Lady. I always feel like I need better clothes to go there."

"So, I take it Bryndarr's eyes didn't lie when he said they saw a Queen flying overhead? Is this why you come to see me?"

From the hall, a huge, armored Nord emerged, his bushy black head ducking to avoid the tall doorframe. He nodded at Loranna, and went to stand near Helgi.

"Is this official business?" Helgi continued. "Should we go into the Hall?"

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:01 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 01:57 AM)

"He'll return when he returns," the young man said without a trace of worry in his voice.

"I try to avoid the castle, when I can, Lady. I always feel like I need better clothes to go there."

"So, I take it Bryndarr's eyes didn't lie when he said they saw a Queen flying overhead? Is this why you come to see me?"

From the hall, a huge, armored Nord emerged, his bushy black head ducking to avoid the tall doorframe.

He nodded at Loranna, and went to stand near Helgi.

"Is this official business?" Helgi continued. "Should we go into the Hall?"

"Yes; Queen Mother Barenziah herself is here," Loranna says. "And you're dressed just fine to come to my castle dear ..."

"Yes, this is official business," she says, nodding to the huge Nord. Almost as tall as Harg he seemed ...

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 08:09 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:01 AM)

Helgi looked a bit disappointed. "Oh... well... if it's all the same to you, let's sit out here and talk, anyway. It's too bloody hot to be cramped up in the Hall."

The black haired Nord spoke, his deep voice shockingly loud, "Barenziah? Helseth Ear-Clipper's mother?"

Helgi seemed less shocked by the news, and took a moment to pour a bucket of cold water over his head and shake out his hair.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:11 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 02:09 AM)

Loranna feels her heart sink a foot. "It's a nice enough day out; why not stay outside and walk while we talk?"

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 08:15 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:11 AM)

Loranna feels her heart sink a foot. "It's a nice enough day out; why not stay outside and walk while we talk?"

"Good," the young man said, tying his wet hair in a knot and pulling out an unsplit log for Loranna to sit upon.

Taking a seat on another, himself, he smiled again and waited for her to speak.

Having not gotten an answer, the large warrior shifted his weight uneasily and waited, not wanting to look disrespectful to his young chief.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:20 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 02:15 AM)

Loranna makes herself comforable, and glances at the loud Nord before speaking. "Yes; Helseth's mother," Loranna says, speaking directly to Helgi. "The King is severely ill, though word is, he will ultimately recover; his mother is traveling the kingdom to speak to the various domains, try to ease tensions among the Dunmer and seek alliances."

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 08:29 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:20 AM)

"The Dunmer will always be tense, that's just their nature," Helgi said, not unkindly.

"So I assume she came here to find out how worried she should be about us, when she takes over from her son?"

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:34 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 02:29 AM)

"The Dunmer will always be tense, that's just their nature," Helgi said, not unkindly.

"So I assume she came here to find out how worried she should be about us, when she takes over from her son?"

"Yeah, I figured that; I said more or less as much to Her Majesty," Loranna admits.

"She came here as part of her alliance seeking," Loranna says. "Though she firmly believes Helseth is going to live - and she's got that look in her eye Aricyn does when she speaks of Helseth, when he talks about how 'he knows THINGS'"

Loranna does a credible job of imitating the white-haired Nord chief's authoritative voice for those last three words.

"This is why I had been asking to see you these past few days," Loranna says, taking a deep breath. "I had wanted to hear your feelings on this matter as I weighed the options."

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 08:46 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:34 AM)

"Yeah, I figured that; I said more or less as much to Her Majesty," Loranna admits.

"She came here as part of her alliance seeking," Loranna says. "Though she firmly belieces Helseth is going to live - and she's got that look in her eye Aricyn does when she speaks of Helseth, when he talks about how 'he knows THINGS'"

Loranna does a credible job of imitating the white-haired Nord chief's authoritative voice for those last three words.

"This is why I had been asking to see you these past few days," Loranna says, taking a deep breath. "I had wanted to hear your feelings on this matter as I weighed the options."

"What matter!?" The black-haired Nord had finally lost control and shouted. "Us, being her lackeys!?"

Helgi gave the tall man a rather pitying look, and turned to Loranna.

"Well, he'll live if that's what she wants, I'll wager. I'd bet my breath that if he's being poisoned, she's the one doing it."

"We are honored that you would consult us on such a matter," Helgi continued in a slightly more formal tone. "I can only say what I believe the Chief would say, were he here, but my words are binding, as is my right, given by the rightful Chief."

"So witnessed," said the tall man, in a still-angry tone.

Helgi smiled politely at Loranna. "My blood, the blood of my sons, and the blood of my sons' sons shall feed the grass, and the spirits of my ancestors shall weep cold tears, and the sun shall cease its voyage across the sky, before any Nord who calls me kin and breathes the breath of Kyne bows to the banner of a Dunmer. So say I, Helgi Hagslayer, voice of the absent chieftain."

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:49 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 02:46 AM)

Loranna's face grew impassive as she listens to Helgi speak.

"I see," she says when he finishes. "I thank you for your candor, Helgi Hagslayer, voice of the absent chieftan."

She is quiet for a long moment, trying to choose her words; her eyes suggest she would prefer to speak to Helgi alone, if possible.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Yesterday, 08:54 AM

hey just being respectful here but may i join in?

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 08:55 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:49 AM)

Helgi's rosy-cheeked face brightened with a smile. "You're quite welcome, Lady Loranna. It's not really that candid. I just think that's what the Chief would say. He's not very fond of Helseth, you know."

"I do wish you luck in refusing her offer. From what I hear, Dunmer can be pretty crafty negotiators. I'd rather avoid that sort of thing, myself."

He smiled again and stood up, having sat still for as long as he could manage.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 08:58 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 02:55 AM)

"Helgi," Loranna says, standing up herself, "right now, her offer is the best one for Ald Raathim I've heard yet."

Her face was resigned, but resolute, a woman expecting to be blasted by a hurricane.

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 09:03 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 12:58 AM)

"You've had others?" the young man said with a smile.

"Are you shopping for a patron like the world was a marketplace? Can Ald Raathim not stand on it's own? Which do you not trust in, your ability to lead, or your people's ability to follow? Lady, all here that have fingers to hold a sword stand ready to defend this place again. Is that not enough?"

He placed a friendly, still damp hand on her shoulder.

"A Dunmer ally is no ally. It is merely an enemy in your bed, instead of an enemy beyond your walls."

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 09:19 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 03:03 AM)

Loranna sighs. "Helgi, we're in Morrowind now; one way or another we're involved in the Dunmer's power plays," she says. "If Helseth and his mother were not asking I side with them, House Dres would be demanding I side against them - all while the most hawkish of the House decry me for being the bane of all Dunmer existance, because I won't allow slavery in my lands. Conflict is coming to the land eventually; I can either have everyones' open emnity, or I can have some sort of allies, and thus some idea what those allies are planning."

"Going along with your analogy, dear - at least the enemy in my bed I can hear talking in their sleep; the enemy beyond my walls I can't see at all until he comes knocking on my gate - with who knows how big an axe to break the gate down."

She lowers her voice and says " ... And, in my estimation, the Queen is not like most Dunmer. Her son ... he turned his nose up at us on the eve of our darkest hour, even as he was binding his armies to our own. She ... she's been away from Morrowind enough to not have the native outlook. She actually recognizes the worth of an adventuresome heart."

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 09:21 AM

The trees whipped by Anya in a blur, as she sprinted through the woods. Her vision was suddenly illuminated by a fireball heading her wall. Raising her spear and bracing it along her forearm, the firball dissipated over a shield, caused by the fire resistance offered by her reforged spear. Though the force stunned her, and forced her back a foot.

Quickly slinging the spear and grabbing her bow, she continued running. She let off three shots in rapid succesion in the direction of the spell, but heard the hollow thunk as all three hit trees. He's fast.

Changing tactics, she lept up and grabbed a branch and heaved herself up. With graceful agility, she continued her run, but lept from branch to branch. She saw a faint glow up ahead, and watched it grow as another fireball headed her way. Leaping out of the way this time, she watched it fly by harmlessly, fizzling leaves as if flew into the sky. Found you.

In a few bounds, she caught up with the faint glow and lept down full force, attempting to impale her attacker. She was met with only air, and hard ground as she missed the agile target.

Twirling around, she attemted to slice the oppent with the curved Dwemer head, and was slightly satisfied when a clack stopped her spear, the ravor edge of a tail blocking her. A snake-like appendage wound it's way around her spear to wench it free, but a sharp tug followed by a rap to the head freed it. Smiling, she listend to the angered clacks from a beak. Too slow, friend.

In an adrenline-rush flurry, she attacked and parried with her oppenent, block every time by the prehensile tail, and his attacks stopped by the long pole-arm of the spear.

A quick spin brought the edge and tip of the weapon end to the throat of her attacker, but at the same time brought his tail to her neck. She smiled as she watched the mouth slightly agape, glowing with another fire spell.

"It's a tie, stand down." The Cliff Racer closed his mouth. Lotus tilted his head and clacked a few times, "I'm none to happy about ties either, but you're an agile oppenent. Besides, you need to learn some fighting of your own, Lotus, now that the reforging gave you the ability to hold your own."

The blue racer lowered his head, "You did good, faithful friend, now let's take a break and get some water." Her eyes twinkled, "Who knows, you may just get a chin scratching for the hard work."

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 09:24 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 01:19 AM)

Helgi's face split with a wide, rosy-lipped smile. "Words of a woman who has already accepted what the queen has offered."

The large Nord blew air out of his nostrils like an enraged bull.

"We are Nords, Lady Loranna," continued Helgi. "Someday you will realize that that is enough. Until then, may Kyne bless your decision and see that no harm comes of it."

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 09:29 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 03:24 AM)

"Aricyn left a good man to speak for him, may Kyne bless us all," Loranna says, stopping and turning to look at Helgi soberly.

"You've already spoken your decision as chief, and spoken as you felt was right. So now, Helgi Hagslayer, I ask, what will you and yours do?"

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 09:34 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 01:29 AM)

"We'll wait," he said, hefting his axe and turning his attention back to the waiting woodpile.

The large warrior bristled one last time in Loranna's direction, then bent to gather an armload of wood.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 09:38 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 03:34 AM)

"Very well," Loranna says, nodding.

"Helgi," she says. "I have plans for Ald Raathim; plans to make our city stronger and more prosperous. You live here, you are chief here; if the castle leave you ill at ease, I will come to you from now on, and not wait for you to answer a message."

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Yesterday, 09:40 AM

Summary: Dastril is in Ald Raathim, wondering what to do next.

"Get some food, check, pay the innkeep, check, get some new handy skill, che- oh wait a second." He reads from his piece of paper. "Yes, I gotta do that yet.."

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 09:42 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 01:38 AM)

Helgi stopped in mid stroke, leaving the next log unsplit for a moment longer.

"I'm not Chief," he said, "but you are welcome here, if you have need."

He smiled, turned away, and brought the axe down on the log, splitting it clean in half.

Posted by: Loranna Yesterday, 09:47 AM

QUOTE(Rhedd @ Aug 6 2005, 03:42 AM)

Loranna turns and heads back to the castle.

Her head was still on her shoulders, which had never been a true concern; still, she didn't feel her encounter with Helgi had been what could be called a resounding success.

... I still don't truly know my own people, Loranna thinks. I still have a long way to go.

Posted by: Rhedd Yesterday, 10:02 AM

The large Nord hesitated a moment before heading back into the hall.

Helgi looked at him, knowing he was struggling not to say what he was thinking. "What?"

"I just knew Bryndarr should've shot her out of the sky when he had the chance."

Helgi simply shook his head and smiled.

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 10:27 AM

Feeling refreshed, Anya stood up, "Let's go you lazy bird. I feel like another quick spar." She unslung her spear, and adopted a ready stance. Lotus cawed an affirmation and hovered in front of her. She charged.

Did I leave her? I don't know. And why was it that was all that was said too me? The tormenting, the twilights... it doesn't make sense.

Anya remained nearly a blur, small sparks flew as Lotus used his natural scythe to block attempts to attack him. Her eyes narrowed.

That haunting blue. Is this her fondest memory used to torment me? It always comes back to the Blue Dawn. That blood-thirsty blue, taunting from the hill...

Her vision swam a little. The heartless eyes of the twilights dancing before her. Tears streamed as hatred overwhelmed her. She began to redouble her efforts, oblivious that she was fighting her friend, only seeing the leathery apparitions that haunted her now.

No. No! I won't let it end this way. Stop making me watch this over and over. He saved us, he saved me...

In a fit of unatural rage, she slammed into Lotus and forced him to the ground, bringing her spear down. "Leave me alone!"

I couldn't save him though. Damn it. Leave me alone. I didn't leave you! I was just too scared.

She brought her weapon down about to impale her faithful companion, when he used his tail tofalter her steps. She collapsed in a heap onto the ground and her reality swam, horrified at what she was about to do.

"I'm sorr... I'm sorry." Anya crawled back, scared, "I didn't wan- I wasn't t-trying too."

Holding her arms tight to herself, she sprinted back to the castle. Now I'm hurting my friend.

Lotus flapped a bit until he was hovering. Tilting his head, he clacked a few times, looking as worried as an expressionless cliff racer face could. Curling his tail around his spear, he made his way back to Anya's room.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 02:11 PM

QUOTE(Aki @ Aug 6 2005, 12:01 AM)

Isidor stood by the boat, and said "Well, I guess we should sail for Ald Rathiaam." he got into the boat, ready to go.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 04:17 PM

Shaka was at his desk in the guestroom, reading some preliminary accounts of the battle at the cave. The adventurers had not yet returned from Sadrith Mora.

His heart sank as he read the ways in which the more than thirty smugglers had been killed. I'm not surprised that Goranthir fought bravely, he thought. But how can I serve with one such as Ash, who enjoyed the killing a little too much?

Shaka realized, for the first time, that he had killed more beings in the last two months than in the past twenty years. Although he hadn't been in Dagon Fel this time, the smugglers' blood was on his hands as well.

Perhaps they were evil, he thought, but they weren't born to that. They might have had loved ones once, however long ago. If they had deserved death, so do I, and so do we all.

He felt sorrow as he thought of the accounts. If he had been there, would it have made a difference? Shaka glanced over at his bags of gear, which were already packed.

I promised Anya to help her lay the ghosts to rest, thought Shaka; after that, I'm free to leave. He didn't know where he would go if he did choose to leave; there was nothing left for him in Vvardenfell.

How foolish I was to banter with Loranna and Vendama that day, horn my way into Ald Raathim. I had no idea of her nature, of all their natures. Yet a part of him still couldn't blame Loranna for the Blue Dawn and aftermath.

Shaka hoped Anya would be happy once she was freed. He had heard from others that she was busy training with Guards and Lotus.

Posted by: Moonblink Yesterday, 06:41 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 08:11 AM)

Isidor stood by the boat, and said "Well, I guess we should sail for Ald Rathiaam." he got into the boat, ready to go.

***********
After 2 days of travel, the Group reached Ald Rathiaam.
Ahjaar was happy to be back, well, happy to be back with her daughter.
She was grateful for all those who helped her, and she didn't know how to thank them all. For now, they'd have to settle with the award of seeing a happy mother and daughter.

OOC: sorry for the ooc, but no one was in chat.
I'm not going to be here today or tomarrow.
Just go ahead and play without Ahjaar.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 07:13 PM

QUOTE(Moonblink @ Aug 6 2005, 12:41 PM)

***********
After 2 days of travel, the Group reached Ald Rathiaam.
Ahjaar was happy to be back, well, happy to be back with her daughter.
She was grateful for all those who helped her, and she didn't know how to thank them all. For now, they'd have to settle with the award of seeing a happy mother and daughter.
OOC: sorry for the ooc, but no one was in chat.
I'm not going to be here today or tomarrow.
Just go ahead and play without Ahjaar.

Isidor got off the boat, and walked to the tavern. "Mead please."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Yesterday, 09:37 PM

The sun gleamed off of his golden armor as he sprinted down the path toward the Daedric ruins of Astarzaintis.

As he reached them he noticed that there were no Daedra to be found, which he didn't believe for a second. He walked through the collapsed walls and was on his guard when he felt something latch onto his back. He drew his mace, which was made out of the finest ebony that ran through Morrowind's veins, and threw his foe to the ground to find out it was just a scamp. He lifted his weapon and brought it down on the creatures fallen corpse. He began to leave when he felt a sense of pain, as he looked down he saw that he had been pierced by spearpoint. The spear withdrew as he collapsed in a heap of pain and saw a towering black figure standing above him, the Dremora spoke and said but three words, "Compliments from Azura." The Daedra lifted his spear to bring it down but found he struck the ground as the golden warrior rolled out of the way, He got to his feet fast and blocked a failed attempt on his life with his shield, the spear glanced of and he saw his chance, he hefted his mace high and made it one with the Daedra's face. As the Daedra's corpse fell he put his mace back into his belt and spoke to the mortally wounded demon, "I will not have your kind polluting these sacred but torn lands." with that he lifted his foot and brought his boot down on it's face. He turned and walked back to the path on his way to Ald Raathim.

He thought to himself, "what am i, what happened to me, i know what i am i'm the last of a dead order, I AM AN ORDINATOR."

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 10:58 PM

Lotus was in a tizzy. He had returned to the castle and was trying to put the spear in her room. He had as much vested interest in not losing it as much as she did, but couldn't get in. Her room happened to be inaccesible for the most part from the outside. He flew back and forth, out of sight.

Half the town was more likely to shoot him down if the saw him, so he had to avoid that side of the castle. And Anya hadn't told half of the newer people she had met about him, so they were likely to attack to. Plus the servants starteled easily.

Clacking angerily at her thoughtlessness, he hovered along side the guest wing when he noticed the balcony Shaka and Anya had talked on. He dove in.

Since his frame was smaller than a typical cliff racer by almost half, he was able to squeeze into the halfways, but the spear he was towing frequently snagged on the stone and decor. Lotus finally located the door to Anya's room and cawed nervously, trying to open the door.

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

Anya had reached the edge of town and made her way through it, her arms pulled tight as if to hide herself. "Stay away, I don't want you."

"You left me alone and broken."

"No no I didn't! Stop it, why?" Phantoms from her past danced in front of her. Her massacred family as a child. The sightless eyes of her mother. The hatred betrayed in the hollow look of her sister. The leers from the amoral gaurds. The feelings were all to real, and she only her helplessness in all of them.

All that others in town saw as the discreetly steered clear of her see was a small girl, with an far-off look in her eyes, wide in fear. Make it stop.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 11:02 PM

All that others in town saw as the discreetly steered clear of her see was a small girl, with an far-off look in her eyes, wide in fear. Make it stop.

[/quote]

Shaka heard the scratching in the hallway, and looked out to see Lotus. He had never seen Lotus and the spear without Anya.

"What is it, boy?" He had a sinking feeling. Shaka saw Lotus try to attract his attention.

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 11:03 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 04:58 PM)

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

Anya had reached the edge of town and made her way through it, her arms pulled tight as if to hide herself. "Stay away, I don't want you."

"You left me alone and broken."

"No no I didn't! Stop it, why?" Phantoms from her past danced in front of her. Her massacred family as a child. The sightless eyes of her mother. The hatred betrayed in the hollow look of her sister. The leers from the amoral gaurds. The feelings were all to real, and she only her helplessness in all of them.

All that others in town saw as the discreetly steered clear of her see was a small girl, with an far-off look in her eyes, wide in fear. Make it stop.

Isidor was looking for Anya, for a drinking partner. He emerged from the bar, and stopped the first person he saw and said "Have you seen a blond Bosmer lady?". "I saw her, leavin' the forest, 'bout 'alf an 'our ago. She was headin' outta town." Isidor nodded and walked in the direction of the end of the city.

Posted by: Arynel Yesterday, 11:04 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 01:37 PM)

Arynel did not know what inspired him to go out walking, but that was an impulse he never quite understood, even so, he was apt to obey it. This day, it led him to a fallen ordinator, who was wounded but not dead.

The Breton came to his knees and placed his hands over the body, a healing blue light began to glow.

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 11:08 PM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 03:02 PM)

Shaka heard the scratching in the hallway, and looked out to see Lotus. He had never seen Lotus and the spear without Anya.

"What is it, boy?" He had a sinking feeling. Shaka saw Lotus try to attract his attention.

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 03:03 PM)

Anya wasn't even watching when she ran straight into the big Nord, and hitting the ground. Shuffling backwards, she closed her eyes, and looked away. "No, go away, I don't want to hurt you too."

Stop laughing, be quiet...

Posted by: Stargazey Yesterday, 11:10 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 05:08 PM)

Isidior helped the wood elf to her feet, and said "What's going on, Anya? i was hoping you'd want to have a drink with me."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Yesterday, 11:11 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Aug 6 2005, 02:04 PM)

All he could see was a flashing blue light, he couldn't speak, he couldn't move the wound he received was almost dire.

As he felt the pain dissapear he spoke "I thank you kindly sera, but i must get to Ald Raathim." He offered him a sack of gold and turned to walk away

Posted by: Arynel Yesterday, 11:13 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 03:11 PM)

Arynel stood silently, looking first at the Ordinator walking off towards Ald Raathim, and then to the sack of gold in his hands.

The Breton shook his head, and sat down on the ground.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 11:16 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 05:08 PM)

A tilt of his head and a small clack later, Lotus new that the Argonian had trouble understanding him. With a flick of his tail, Lotus tossed the spear at the feet of Shaka and headed towards the balcony he entered. Once he saw Shaka emerge outside on the ledge, he did an acrobatic loop towards town, before disappearing in a small, firey dazzle.
Anya wasn't even watching when she ran straight into the big Nord, and hitting the ground. Shuffling backwards, she closed her eyes, and looked away. "No, go away, I don't want to hurt you too."

Stop laughing, be quiet...

Shaka immediately grabbed Anya's spear and vaulted off the balcony, invoking Slowfall. When he hit the ground, he cast Feet of Notorgo and began a search in the direction in which Lotus had flown.

The world seemed to slow to a crawl, and Shaka managed to dodge the inhabitants of Ald Raathim. As he passed the wooden tavern sign of the Drunken Guar, he could see the familiar profiles of two blondes ahead, a Nord fighter and a Bosmer.

You should have checked on Anya sooner, he told himself. She had been better the last few days, able to practice archery with the Royal Guards and, he had heard, using Lotus for live practice in the woods. But her demons had returned full force, from the look of things.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Yesterday, 11:16 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Aug 6 2005, 02:13 PM)

Arynel stood silently, looking first at the Ordinator walking off towards Ald Raathim, and then to the sack of gold in his hands.

The Breton shook his head, and sat down on the ground.

The Ordinator thought again "What am i doing i'm not part of the watch anymore." he turned around to speak with the Breton sitting on the ground, "If you're heading my way your company is welcome."

Posted by: Arynel Yesterday, 11:41 PM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 03:16 PM)

The Ordinator thought again "What am i doing i'm not part of the watch anymore." he turned around to speak with the Breton sitting on the ground, "if you're heading my way your company is welcome."

Arynel considered, but finding that he was content where he was, answered the Ordinator thusly, “My way is the same as yours, but the times are different. I will wait here for now.”

The Breton nodded his head, but did not get up.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Yesterday, 11:45 PM

QUOTE(Arynel @ Aug 6 2005, 02:41 PM)

"As you wish praise Viv.." he almost said something he did not want to
instead he nodded back and began a sprint toward Ald Raathim.

Posted by: Xyber02 Yesterday, 11:53 PM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 03:10 PM)

Isidior helped the wood elf to her feet, and said "What's going on, Anya? i was hoping you'd want to have a drink with me."

"She won't leave me alone. I'm trying to hurt my friends now." She covered her ears with her hands, "There's a constant laughing, like someone enjoys tormenting me."

She pulled her elbows tighter, closed her eyes and shook her head, "No, no stop it, I was so helpless..."

Taking a few ragged, deep breaths, she tried to calm down, "I need to sit down, don't leave me Isidor." Her eyes darted back and forth at what only she could see.

Posted by: syronj Yesterday, 11:59 PM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 05:53 PM)

"Anya, I'm here," said Shaka, catching up to the two. By the Nine, she looked worse off than ever.

Shaka moved to her back and measured her spine with a glance. The assassin Kethiah had taught him more than pain centers and disabling strikes, she had shown him the pleasure meridians of various races. "Forgive me, kid," he said.

Shaka touched an area to the left base of Anya's spine, sending a pulse of magicka through the two fingers. Anya's head snapped back, her eyes glazing with pleasure for a moment. Shaka then touched a different area closer to the top of the spine, and she sagged unconscious. Shaka caught her.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 12:01 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 05:53 PM)

Isidor saw Shaka preform the spell, and then Anya fall unconcious. "What's wrong with her?" he asked Shaka.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 12:08 AM

He could feel them, all of them, their eyeballs burning in the back of his skull and he heard the whispers to, "What's he doing here, the scum."

He pondered to himself, "I am scum aren't I, i couldn't even protect myself from her wrath."

He felt the scar he called his "misfortune" that he received from Azura herself, he felt it all the time, the seering pain it gave him, that's why he masked it under his helm, he didn't want to revisit that moment, he didn't want to think about it anymore.

He entered the tavern and found a drunken guard wanted to pick a fight with him, "I will have none of your kind around here on my watch!", the guard reached for his sword but found his hand was halted and twisted behind his back, the Ordinator threw him to the floor and continued his walk to the barkeep.

"Who must i speak to for guard duties here?", the barkeep was to scared to reply, the Ordinator gave up turned and headed for the door.

Posted by: syronj Today, 12:12 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 06:01 PM)

Isidor saw Shaka preform the spell, and then Anya fall unconcious. "What's wrong with her?" he asked Shaka.

"We think there's a ghost from her past driving her mad, but we're not sure which one," said Shaka. "I've asked Slyvos to perform a summoning, and we're still waiting to hear back."

"She has maybe fifteen more minutes of unconsciousness. I'd better get her back to the castle and try to find Slyvos."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 12:12 AM

"Anya, I'm glad you could meet me here. It's been a more than few years since we... departed."

"I know- look, I'm sorry I fought with you. I should have known better, my time alone showed me that I still don't know much."

"Shush, I know that. But that's not why we're here. I found you're brother. He's working in an illegal mine in the southern Grazelands. He can save him. Be careful though, there's more going on than crazed worhippers going on right now."

"The Azurites, wht have you learned?"

"Not now, Anya. First your brother, then I'll tell you what bits I have learned."

Anya's reality swam, but she did not wake. What happened?

"Anya, thank you for freeing me." Tears crossed her brother's face, but he couldn't be happier, "I thought you had died, it's been almost a decade. But you came back, and gave us a new life."

No, not this again.

Blood splattered across her face. She watched her brother's head roll off. She opened her mouth to scream, but that was heard were the shrieks of the twilights.

Stop it.

There claws tore the other children and slaves they had freed not long ago, trying to start a new home, a new life with her and Vondicus. She watched her Uncle die protecting her and them, though it proved futile.
No...

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 12:13 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 06:12 PM)

"Ok. Do you need help?".

Posted by: Loranna Today, 12:14 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 06:08 PM)

"I believe that would be me," says a calm Dunmer voice.

Dram, clad in ornate boldmold armor, ebony broadsword at his side, regards the mer in Ordinator armor thoughtfully, his eyebrow cocked curiously. Classically handsome features look over the newcomer, assesing him.

"It's considered unorthodox to ask for a guard position by pushing another guard around," he says, walking up to the newcomer.

Posted by: syronj Today, 12:16 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 06:13 PM)

"Ok. Do you need help?".

Shaka clapped him on the shoulder. "I'm going to run for it, friend. You can follow to the castle if you want, but thanks."

He cast the Feet of Notorgo again and sprinted for the castle with the woodelf in his arms, her spear lashed to his back next to Bitter Mercy.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 12:18 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 06:16 PM)

"Very well." But, before he could get a reply from the Argonian, he was gone. Isidor frowned slightly, and began to walk towards town.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 12:18 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 12:14 AM)

A brown headed Breton clad in a dark robe emerged from the shadows in the back of the tavern.
"And it is not wise to try to start a fight in a place of merriment and laughter.", the Breton added. "I wonder... what brings one of your kind here to Ald Raathim. I have not seen an Ordinator for months - after the Blue Dawn."
The Breton turned his head and nodded towards Dram in greeting.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 12:20 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 03:14 PM)

The Ordinator turned toward the man in bonemold armor and spoke, "It is also unorthodox for one guard to attack another."

"On this matter i come to pledge my services to the Palace."
The Ordinator was afraid he would ask him to remove his helm and show himself and not be accepted, the truth was he had nowhere else to go."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 12:24 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 06:20 PM)

Dram's other eyebrow goes up, and he looks over the Ordinator again.

"Who asks to serve the Lady of Ald Raathim?" he asks, looking at the Ordinator's helm. "Might we see one another face to face?"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 12:30 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 03:24 PM)

Dram's other eyebrow goes up, and he looks over the Ordinator again.

"Who asks to serve the Lady of Ald Raathim?" he asks, looking at the Ordinator's helm. "Might we see one another face to face?"

He knew, it the pain it was increasing, he wanted to shout out but he controlled himself and hid his anguish, "I am Kratos, former captain of the watch of his lordsh.." he stopped knew he did not wish to say anything about who he had served and hoped he did not notice what he was going to say.

He replied "Please i have travelled many a night and am weary, i will receive your answer on the morrow." With that he kindly nodded his head and walked out the door.

Posted by: syronj Today, 12:31 AM

The run to Loranna's wing of the castle seemed slow, though in truth Shaka was a blur to onlookers. Anya murmured and protested in his arms, but her eye movements were more sleep than full nightmare.

As he started up the stairs in the tower and had slowed to normal speed, the guards waved him through, seeing the intensity of Shaka's concern.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 12:37 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 06:30 PM)

In the tavern, Dram looks to Nalion. "That, I must admit, was one of the shorter first interviews I've ever conducted," he notes, turning to his man that had been manhandled.

"Keep a close but hidden eye on our new friend," he says. "I want to know what he does from now till he comes to 'hear my answer'"

The guard salutes and heads out; Dram turns to Nalion and asks "How fare you? I heard you've been working yourself hard again lately."

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 06:31 PM)

Loranna is swiftly summoned, and she meets Shaka half-way, her eyes taking in the scene at a glance.

"Let me see her," she says, her healer's eye checking Anya. "What happened? Her ghosts again, or something else?"

Posted by: Nalion Today, 12:37 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 12:30 AM)

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 12:37 AM)

"I agree about the Ordinator, Dram.", the Breton mage answered, smiling, but shaking his head, too.
"There are events that need to happen and I have to do my part again to help them turn out well. I know this is not a satisfactory answer, but I fear this is all I can give you, Dram. It is exhausting, but I will have to manage. I have good friends and a safe haven to back me up. You are doing your job well."

Posted by: syronj Today, 12:40 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 06:37 PM)

Shaka was grateful to see the Lady. "The same ghost or ghosts. Worse than ever. She's unconscious for now, but I think we should try to summon them today if possible and put an end to this."

Anya's eye movements were more rapid now, as dream gave way to nightmare.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 12:47 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 06:40 PM)

Loranna calls for a servant to find Slyvos, tellinh him "Have Slyvos meet us in the Mage Guild; tell him it's about Anya's ghosts. He'll know what I mean."

As the servant goes off, Loranna casts a small spell on Anya. "It's not much but it'll at least fortify her body," she says, helping Shaka with the Bosmer. "Come on; let's get her down there."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 12:47 AM

Kratos walked trough the streets considering the fact that he would have to show his face sometime but he wanted to stall for time he needed that job he figured "the gods put me here to fight and protect."

He knew he was being watched and he knew he did not like being watched, he did his best to avoid alerting the guard to his knowledge and it seemed to be working, he wandered into the sewers muttering a thanks for his training in combat and his ability to protect himself.

He decided to sleep there that night.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 12:52 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:37 PM)

"Hmmm,", Nalion muttered and his chin cupped in his palm, then he spoke aloud. "I would say when someone is unknown to a location and needs rest, then a tavern like this with rooms to rent would be my choice. Former Ordinators should know that authorities do not like people to sleep on the streets."
He looked after the Ordinator.
"Yet still, if not his armour pointed to his former profession, his behaviour does. No offense to anyone, of course."
"I agree about the Ordinator, Dram.", the Breton mage answered, smiling, but shaking his head, too.
"There are events that need to happen and I have to do my part again to help them turn out well. I know this is not a satisfactory answer, but I fear this is all I can give you, Dram. It is exhausting, but I will have to manage. I have good friends and a safe haven to back me up. You are doing your job well."

Nalion's comment is met with several hearty chuckles, and one Nord mutters "Damn Dunmer; don't even know when to come into the tavern when they're dead on their feet!", much to the drunken mirth of his drinking companion. The innkeep somehow manages to be busy when said remark is made though he is quietly heard to tell his barmaid "Add a drake to the price of their next drink; they're too sodden to notice ..."

Dram nods slightly at the compliment. "That is much the answer I expected," he says. "Three blessings for your endevor, serjo."

He goes over to order a matze, and quietly leaves the innkeep a few drakes, whispering "Let the Breton have his next drink on me." Whatever Nalion was working on he looked like he could use a break.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 12:55 AM

As the servant arrived, Slyvos turned, a random rat sitting a chair with a crown on it's head. He got a concerned look on his face as he was told what happened, and made his way out of the castle to the mage's guild.

Meanwhile, in the mind of that rat:

all hail the mouse king!

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 01:01 AM

Tris Gaerington's journal, 6th Last Seed:

Ran back to talk to the General. I didn't know when I agreed to this what I was getting into. But there's no one else to do it now is there?

I'm not sure I like myself very much. I'm tense, angry at everything; I have nightmares every time I sleep. With Ciel not here I catch myself speaking in his voice. Like with the new people, wanting to leave prisoners to die. I did that for him, really; I'm not that good a person myself. But I couldn't stop picturing Ciel, one of the first times I ever saw him, trembling with anger, looking at blood on snow. He wanted to kill Loranna for that, and he would have been right, wouldn't he? Would have been justified. Yet it was mercy that he was prevented from his goal, and now look where we are.

I don't understand where mercy comes from, but we can't shut it out. That door has to stay open.

So - delivered the slaver and his hired [censored] to the not-so-gentle hands of Stendarr.

I wasn't nice to them though. The woman wanted clothes, didn't want to walk back to Dagon Fel in front of all those people naked. And it occurred to me that I hadn't seen one scrap of clothes on any of the Khajiit slaves. A lot of people don't know this, but Khajiit don't usually go naked - they cover their belly fur in particular, thinking it's shameful to walk around like animals. So. Seemed like a good idea to me to strip Hankarlion, the slaver, too. I drove the two of them back to Dagon Fel, shackled, at the point of a sword, like the pigs they are. The Nords there skipping and laughing and pointing like little children. Maybe, if the Imperial justice at Wolverine Hall doesn't put them to death, they'll think a little before doing this again.

Or maybe they'll come to get my head, for revenge, to which I say, bring it. I'd love the chance to finish those two in fair combat. That Blade woman may be a good swordswoman. But I have a far superior technique - I have good friends.

Reading this over again. When did I get like this? And how do I stop it?

Posted by: Nalion Today, 01:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 12:52 AM)

"I see that the formidable reputation of Ordinators is well known in Ald Raathim.", Nalion muttered under his breath, not being able to fully hide a broad smile.
"Thank you. May these blessings rest on you as well, Dram.", Nalion replied as he slowly followed the Dunmer guard captain to the bar and ordered a refill for his mug of mead.
After the barkeeper refused his coins with a nod towards Dram, Nalion lifted his glass towards him and took a seat on a table near the bar.
"Join me, Dram, if you wish."

Posted by: syronj Today, 01:03 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 06:55 PM)

Shaka and Loranna burst into Mage's Guild. The young acolyte at the front desk hurriedly found an empty summoning chamber for them. They waited for Slyvos' arrival.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 01:06 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 07:03 PM)

Shaka and Loranna burst into Mage's Guild. The young acolyte at the front desk hurriedly found an empty summoning chamber for them. They waited for Slyvos' arrival.

Isidor is all ready in the summoning room, waiting for the arrival of Sylvos, Shaka, Loranna and Anya.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 01:06 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:02 PM)

Tris entered the tavern, glanced around, and saw Nalion.

"Did I just see an Ordinator?" he said.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 01:09 AM

Slyvos came into the building, asking where the summoning room was that Loranna and Shaka were in. As he walked in, he kept a straight face, hiding the worry he felt.

'okay, let's see...'

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:09 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 07:06 PM)

Tris entered the tavern, glanced around, and saw Nalion.

"Did I just see an Ordinator?" he said.

Dram looks at Nalion, and says "I am off duty for a bit longer ..." He sits himself down, mug of matze in hand.

He nods lightly to Tris, muttering "So it seems."

Posted by: Nalion Today, 01:09 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 01:06 AM)

Tris entered the tavern, glanced around, and saw Nalion.

"Did I just see an Ordinator?" he said.

"Indoril armour? Golden St. Olms mask? Non-withstandable charme? Must have been one, Tris.", Nalion answered wryly, motioning towards a seat on his table. "Please, join us if you've got time. I usually go there to enjoy some more flavoured food than what is usually served in the castle."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 01:12 AM

Anya blinked her eyes a few times, making out several figures and realizing she was inside now. "Wha- what's going on?"

She closed her eyes tight but the carnage and the twisted eyes still danced in front of her. Leave me alone.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:12 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 07:09 PM)

Slyvos came into the building, asking where the summoning room was that Loranna and Shaka were in. As he walked in, he kept a straight face, hiding the worry he felt.

'okay, let's see...'

Loranna smiles briefly at Slyvos, able to catch the subtle signs of concern on her lover's face.

He's really trying to be more open to people ... she thinks with a surge of emotion that makes her lips curl into a smile.

"She's out for now; I've done what I can to help her physically," Loranna says. "Shaka tells me the ghosts are getting worse; she may be trapped in a dream right now."

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 07:12 PM)

" ... or not," Loranna says, giving Anya a quick reassuring smile. Worry still tinged her eyes though.

She looks to Isidor, then Shaka. "Here we go again," she mutters quietly. "Be ready, whatever comes."

Posted by: syronj Today, 01:14 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 07:12 PM)

"She's out for now; I've done what I can to help her physically," Loranna says. "Shaka tells me the ghosts are getting worse; she may be trapped in a dream right now."

She looks to Isidor, then Shaka. "Here we go again," she mutters quietly. "Be ready, whatever comes."

Shaka said quickly to Slyvos, "Whatever happens, thank you for your time on this. I know the daedric summoning took a lot out of you."

He smoothed back Anya's hair for a moment, then rested a hand on her forehead.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 01:15 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:09 PM)

"Indoril armour? Gold St. Olms mask? Non-withstandable charme? Must have been one, Tris.", Nalion answered wryly, motioning towards a seat on his table. "Please, join us if you've got time. I usually go there to enjoy some more flavoured food than what is usually served in the castle."

Tris regarded his plate with an odd look. He honestly couldn't remember the last time he had eaten - wasn't it breakfast, two days ago - yet he wasn't in the least bit hungry. Side effects of too much traveling. His body and he were barely on speaking terms.

He sipped the foul-tasting Dunmer alcohol.

"He's a real Ordinator, not just some fool with a trophy helmet?" Tris said. "I was making a joke."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 01:16 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 07:12 PM)

She looks to Isidor, then Shaka. "Here we go again," she mutters quietly. "Be ready, whatever comes."

"Very well, Loranna." he grips his axe, a little tighter.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:19 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 07:15 PM)

"I do not know," Dram admits. "He introduced himself by walking in, getting into a tussle with one of my men, claiming he wished to pledge service to the Lady, then running out to await my answer," he recounts.

"It occurs to me that, true Ordinator or no, this man may well be suffering a head wound and needs a healer," Dram continues. "He may simply be delirious, unaware of what he does. Or, he may well be all the worst qualities of the Ordinators rolled up in one seething package; it's still a bit too early to tell."

He sips his matze, grateful for a good Dunmer drink.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 01:21 AM

Slyvos sighed, looking around a bit, before looking at Anya.

'okay, I need you to help me make this work. Just stand on the other side of the room, and I'll handle calling the spirit forth.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 01:23 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 01:15 AM)

Nalion watched his friend closely and a troubled look appeared on the mage's face. He knew that many of his companions would have draining and exhausting tasks like him, he guessed Arynel was working hard, too. Looking at Tris, though, he was truly concerned. Nalion began to fear for his friend and that showed on his face.
The mage was doubtful though whether he could help him in any way.

"I don't know if he was a real one. The attitude fits, though.", Nalion answered. "He did not say much."
The mage looked at his fellow Breton curiously, then chose to ask. "I heard you were up in Dagon Fel on a rescue mission? How did you all fare?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:31 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 07:21 PM)

Slyvos sighed, looking around a bit, before looking at Anya.

'okay, I need you to help me make this work. Just stand on the other side of the room, and I'll handle calling the spirit forth.

Loranna moves as Slyvos directs, flexing her fingers.

"Nine be with us," she says, weaving a small protective spell over Shaka, Isidor, and herself.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 01:41 AM

Slyvos rubbed his hands together a bit, and began to chant monotonously, closing his eyes to concentrate better upon reaching out.

'The spirits that haunt this woman, come forth, and answer for thy deeds...'

He shuddered suddenly, feeling a cold chill go up his spine as he continued chanting.

At last, it was beginning to work...

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 01:41 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:23 PM)

"I didn't know there were any Ordinators left alive," Tris said. "Most of them followed the Temple and became Azurites when the Temple followed Azura. And the Ordinators never, how to put this, encouraged individualism."

Tris shook his head. "I'm not sure I even want to talk about Dagon Fel. We got the girl back, that's good, and Goranthir fights like... his grandmother's son... and that's good. But I can't say we cut a very heroic picture."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 01:47 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 07:41 PM)

As Slyvos spoke, the spectre of a young Bosmer woman appeared in the summoning room. Even though she was transparent, scars shone all over her body. One particulaly long one shone from her shoulder to her neck.

Her eyes bore a deep sadness, visible upon first seeing her. She was a beautiful woman, and had blond hair, like Anya.

"Why do you summon me? To torment me more?". She spoke in a sad, shallow tone.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 01:48 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 01:41 AM)

A servant girl brought Nalion slices of mudcrab in a strange but tasty sauce and some bread.
"I didn't know either, Tris.", Nalion answered. "Strong minds and hearts can break out at times, even if it is subdued by doctrine. If he truly was an Ordinator, we might find him to be a strong fellow. I wonder what he has gone through."
Nalion shuddered as he remembered his own escape from Vivec that day when Azura tried to take control.

"I can't make you tell what happened, but sometimes, burdens can be lifted by just the open ear of a friend.", the mage told Tris, taking a bite from the crab meat.

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 01:51 AM

At the sound of that long gone voice, Anya's eye's snapped open. They widened in fear and terror. "You! Why- why are you here? It's not enough to just torment me? What's happening?"

Anya fell to the ground and backed up into the wall, fear washed over her body as she tucked her legs up to her chest as she tried to will herself away.

"What do you want..." she whispered, afraid to look.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 01:52 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:48 PM)

Tris smiled and cut his eyes sideways at Nalion, then took a bite of his meat.

"You're worried about me. That's sweet. I'm not that bothered by Dagon Fel. It's just a long trip from where we are to... where the General is. She was pleased to find out you agreed to her task, Nalion. She trusts you."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 01:53 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 07:48 PM)

"There was one who came here back during the Dawn if I recall, part of the refugees," Dram says, looking to Tris. "I think he is still around, though he's long since hung up his armor and taken up fishing, I'm told."

Dram pauses, looking into his matze. "I think it might be prudent to go find him, if only to avoid any extra scuffles," he says. " ... Though I admit that I am not the most skilled at talking sympathetically; that talent is more for others I fear."

He raises his eyebrows slightly at Tris and Nalion as he finishes his matze.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 01:57 AM

Kratos decided to go back to the Tavern and reveal himself, he couldn't take it anymore, he had to it haunted his concience, "I have to stop hiding from myself!" "I am an outstanding warrior andthey will know that!"

He reached for the handle and twisted, as soon as he entered the laughing and fun suddenly ground to a halt, all eyes were on him, he walked to a dark corner and sat down removing his helm in the dark, all that could be seen was one red gleaming eye he gestured to Nalion and Dram to join him.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 01:58 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 07:51 PM)

Allania looked at Anya and a grimace came across her face "You. You did this. It wasn't enough to torment me during my life, you must torment me in death?" Allania flew at Anya, passing through her.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:01 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 07:58 PM)

Allania looked at Anya and a grimace came across her face "You. You did this. It wasn't enough to torment me during my life, you must torment me in death?" Allania flew at Anya, passing through her.

"Tormented spirit, be at peace," Loranna says, lowering her hands to hide the fact that she was wringing her fingers. "We call you here today to help you find rest, not to add to your troubles."

She nods to Anya. "Your sibling has suffered much; she has lost all she holds dear. She can't understand why you call her your tormentor and the words sear her heart. She would give you rest if she could."

"Tell us, dear; why say you Anya has done this to you?" Loranna says. "Let us all hear one another's account from our own lips, let old misunderstandings be corrected, hearts mended."

Posted by: Nalion Today, 02:02 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 01:52 AM)

Nalion nodded gravely.
"I still remember when I first met her in Snowhawk. Where the guards killed their own children." The mage shuddered in near terror. "She was there to comfort me. I was on the brink of breaking apart. And then there was Hogithum. I trust her very much."
Nalion spoke in short sentences, then paused for a long time, obviously remembering what happened in the past.

As the Ordinator returned, Nalion watched him with a raised eyebrow and a little surprise.
"Dram? Tris? Shall we go talk to him?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:04 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 07:57 PM)

" ... That," Dram comments, "was a very short search."

He gets up and walks over to Kratos, ignoring the quiet stares of the other tavern customers.

"Hello again," he says, looking at Kratos.

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:04 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 08:01 PM)

"Tell us, dear; why say you Anya has done this to you?" Loranna says. "Let us all hear one another's account from our own lips, let old misunderstandings be corrected, hearts mended."

Shaka remained tight-lipped but was confused. The spirit was acting nearly as tormented as Anya. They couldn't have raised the wrong spectre ... Could they?

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 02:06 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 05:04 PM)

" ... That," Dram comments, "was a very short search."

He gets up and walks over to Kratos, ignoring the quiet stares of the other tavern customers.

"Hello again," he says, looking at Kratos.

"Please have a seat, i wish to show you something."
His red eye blinked and he waited for everyone to take their seats at his table.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 02:07 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 07:04 PM)

" ... That," Dram comments, "was a very short search."

He gets up and walks over to Kratos, ignoring the quiet stares of the other tavern customers.

"Hello again," he says, looking at Kratos.

Tris followed the others, taking a seat at the newcomer's table and looking at the golden helm with interest. It had been a while since he had seen one. Life had changed a lot, in such a short time.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 02:09 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 02:06 AM)

"Please have a seat, i wish to show you something."
His red eye blinked and he waited for everyone to take their seats at his table.

Nalion grabbed his plate and mug and also took a seat across the man clad in Ordinator armour. He looked at him curiously, but nontheless took another bite from his meal.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:11 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 08:01 PM)

"Tormented spirit, be at peace," Loranna says, lowering her hands to hide the fact that she was wringing her fingers. "We call you here today to help you find rest, not to add to your troubles."

She nods to Anya. "Your sibling has suffered much; she has lost all she holds dear. She can't understand why you call her your tormentor and the words sear her heart. She would give you rest if she could."

"Tell us, dear; why say you Anya has done this to you?" Loranna says. "Let usall hear one another's account from our own lips, let old misunderstandings be corrected, hearts mended."

Allania glared at Loranna and said "This....thing, my "sister", left me to die. TO DIE! How should I forgive her? Would you forgive one who has wronged you so? I will haunt you until the day you're rotting in the ground. You are a coward, and a wretch. Why am I upset, you ask? I will tell you. When our "uncle" tried to free us, from our imprisonment as slaves, a slaver tried to kill this...thing, and I dove in front of her, to stop the spear from hitting her. She left me there, bleeding, and dying."

She turns to Loranna again "Who are you to judge me, wretch? Do you know what I have been through?"

She sees Shaka's confused look and says to Anya "Who is this? Your lover?"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 02:14 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 05:07 PM)

Tris followed the others, taking a seat at the newcomer's table and looking at the golden helm with interest. It had been a while since he had seen one. Life had changed a lot, in such a short time.

After everyone took their seats and all eyes were on him he began to lean forward very slowly until the darkness left his face and he revealed his horrible scar to the tavern.

It ran from his forhead through his left eye down to his cheek, he was blind in one eye, everyone in the tavern revealed signs of disgust and shock all except for the party at his table. He waited for a response.

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 02:14 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 06:11 PM)

Allania glared at Loranna and said "This....thing, my "sister", left me to die. TO DIE! How should I forgive her? Would you forgive one who has wronged you so? I will haunt you until the day you're rotting in the ground. You are a coward, and a wench. Why am I upset, you ask? I will tell you. When our "uncle" tried to free us, from our imprisonment as slaves, a slaver tried to kill this...thing, and I dove in front of her, to stop the spear from hitting her. She left me there, bleeding, and dying."
She turns to Loranna again "Who are you to judge me, wench? Do you know what I have been through?"

She sees Shaka's confused look and says to Anya "Who is this? Your lover?"

Anya shook her head, her hair starting to come loose, "I didn't leave you! I never wanted too. I- I came back, but you, but... It's not my fault!" Tears streamed from her face, "Just leave me alone!"

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:16 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 08:11 PM)

When our "uncle" tried to free us, from our imprisonment as slaves, a slaver tried to kill this...thing, and I dove in front of her, to stop the spear from hitting her. She left me there, bleeding, and dying."
She turns to Loranna again "Who are you to judge me, wench? Do you know what I have been through?"

She sees Shaka's confused look and says to Anya "Who is this? Your lover?"

Shaka said, "One who cares. . . . But Anya would not have left you. She must have thought you already dead."

Shaka could see the strain on Slyvos' face as he pierced the veil between the dead and the living. This must not have been as exhausting as the daedric summons, but even this summons brought the sweat to Slyvos' brow.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 02:18 AM

Slyvos sat on the floor, his legs crossed indian style, keeping his eyes shut and blocking out what he could, focusing on maintaining this all..

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 02:18 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 07:14 PM)

"Winged Twilight did that?" Tris said, looking at it with interest. "They were everywhere during Blue Dawn, one nearly ripped my arm off. Pity about your eye."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:20 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:14 PM)

Dram's expression rarely wavered from a quiet calm; some people thought it a bit surly, others more just aloof, and a few people had in his youth accused him of being half asleep. Whatever the reason, the Dunmer guard was considered by most to be nigh unflappable; that had in fact been one reason why he had become a guard.

Kratos's scar causes Dram to raise both his eyebrows. His voice changes tone only slightly, however, when he asks "During the Dawn, I take it?"

He glances over to the innkeep, and says quietly "Drinks for the house; on me." The innkeep blinks, mutters "Never knew you to be so free with the booze Dram; must be a new leaf ..." but complies.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 02:21 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 02:14 AM)

Nalion flinched slightly at the sight of the Dunmer's face, remembering his own encounters with winged twilights. His eyes showed pity, yet he remained silent.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 02:22 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 05:18 PM)

"Winged Twilight did that?" Tris said, looking at it with interest. "They were everywhere during Blue Dawn, one nearly ripped my arm off. Pity about your eye."

Kratos whipped his head around to meet Tris' gaze, "Yes Azura's winged twilight did this." He paused and then finnally spoke, "Azura herself did this to me!"

He angrily bashed the table and sent a chill down everyones spine.
"I am sorry for my out burst but i will have my revenge!" He turned to look toward Dram.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:22 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:14 PM)

Anya shook her head, her hair starting to come loose, "I didn't leave you! I never wanted too. I- I came back, but you, but... It's not my fault!" Tears streamed from her face, "Just leave me alone!"

"A liar, on top of everything else? You disgust me, you little wretch. You wanted me to die. You wanted me to lie their, bleeding to death."

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 08:16 PM)

"What do you know, marsh scum? Were you there? WERE YOU THERE?!" she shrieked.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:25 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 08:18 PM)

Slyvos sat on the floor, his legs crossed indian style, keeping his eyes shut and blocking out what he could, focusing on maintaining this all..

Loranna had some idea of what Slyvos did during summons; right now, if she understood correctly, he was concentrating on protective measures. The look on his face though made her worry a bit; he ususally was not this strained when summoning ghosts. He must have been strained still from summoning Faydra - or this ghost was quite strong.

Or, of course, both.

"In the time I've known Anya, I've not known her to abandon one to die," Lorann says. "Forgive me for sounding judgemental; I wished only to help, spirit."

Loranna hears Anya's anguished cries and grimaces ...

"She was frightened as were you," Loranna says quietly. "She had just seen her beloved sister run through - thought she was dead, and even still came back. She never meant to cause you suffering, dear ..."

Loranna's voice held a questioning note.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:27 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 08:25 PM)

"In the time I've known Anya, I've not known her to abandon one to die," Lorann says. "Forgive me for sounding judgemental; I wished only to help, spirit."

Loranna hears Anya's anguished cries and grimaces ...

"She was frightened as were you," Loranna says quietly. "She had just seen her beloved sister run through - thought she was dead, and even still came back. She never meant to cause you suffering, dear ..."

Loranna's voice held a questioning note.

"As I lay there, bleeding, I saw her run, RUN, from her beloved sister. I will never forgive you for this....this, betrayel."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 02:30 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 06:27 PM)

"As I lay there, bleeding, I saw her run, RUN, from her beloved sister. I will never forgive you for this....this, betrayel."

"Ahh!" Anya covered her eyes over the shrieks, "I watched you... though, you're eyes grew cold. You weren't my sister for so long, so quiet, but you saved... me... You're not my sister now though, either! "

Through her ragged breaths, she managed to sob out, "I loved- you. Though."

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:34 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:30 PM)

Knowing the ring of truth in her voice, Shaka found he had a tear in his eye. That's all that's left in the end, he thought.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 02:39 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 07:22 PM)

Kratos whipped his head around to meet Tris' gaze, "No, no winged twilight did this." He paused and then finnally spoke, "Azura herself did this to me!"

He angrily bashed the table and sent a chill down everyones spine.
"I am sorry for my out burst but i will have my revenge!" He turned to look toward Dram.

Tris stood up.

"I don't believe you," he said. "I know Loranna, and she never put anyone's eye out when Azura possessed her. It was only at the very end that Azura took full control, and then that happened, I saw the whole thing."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:39 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:30 PM)

"LIAR!!!!!!!" she yelled. "LIAR! You NEVER LOVED ME!!!!!!!!" she seemed to stop for a moment, but then Anya started to scream again. Allania grinned. "Seeing me get run through again?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:41 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 08:27 PM)

"As I lay there, bleeding, I saw her run, RUN, from her beloved sister. I will never forgive you for this....this, betrayel."

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:30 PM)

"She didn't betray you," Loranna says.

"You threw yourself in harm's way to save her; would you have wanted your sacrifice to be in vain?" Loranna asks. "If she had stayed, tried to drag you off ... would she not have risked getting killed, leaving you to have died for nothing? Would not that be an even worse betrayal, dear?"

Loranna's eyes were growing moist, the light in the summonings room reflecting off her tearstreaks.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 02:44 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 02:22 AM)

"Are you sure this was Azura?", Nalion asks with a raised eyebrow. "I do not know details of the internal orders of the Azurites, but I severely doubt Azura could manifest herself in that way. And the only known vessels were Loranna and then Nibani Maesa at Hogithum. Could it have been a high-ranking priestess perhaps?"
Nalion took a sip from his mug of mead.
"Nontheless, I think Azura is beyond your grasp of revenge right now. There were trials to judge a god before."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 02:45 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 06:39 PM)

"LIAR!!!!!!!" she yelled. "LIAR! You NEVER LOVED ME!!!!!!!!" she seemed to stop for a moment, but then Anya started to scream again. Allania grinned. "Seeing me get run through again?"

Anya's eyes widened and stared past everyone in the room.

"Anya!" The scimitar rose high and came down in a blur. She closed her eyes, hoping for death, but it never came.

What came caused her to freeze up in pain, unable to cry or scream. In front of her was her sister, her true sister and not some crazed person, in front of her. The scimitar driven deep into her shoulder, cutting deeply into her chest now.

"No, no, I didn't want this!"

She watched as her sister sagged to the floor, care in her eyes for once, after so many years on cold emptiness towards Anya.

"No! What happened to you? Make it go away..." her shoulders heaved as she sobbed at the nightmare.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 02:46 AM

"So my would be captain would you like me to prove my worth to the guard?" He sank back into the darkness and put his helm back on.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 02:48 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:46 PM)

"So my would be captain would you like me to prove my worth to the guard?" He sank back into the darkness and put his helm back on.

Dram listens quietly to Tris and Nalion, letting tongues more gifted than his speak. Finally, he answers Kratos.

"I would ask first why is it you seek to be a guard, and why here in Ald Raathim," he says.

Posted by: syronj Today, 02:48 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:45 PM)

Anya's eyes widened and stared past everyone in the room.

"No! What happened to you? Make it go away..." her shoulders heaved as she sobbed at the nightmare.

Shaka clenched his hands in frustration. He couldn't attack Anya's sister, and he couldn't comfort Anya.

I don't know how Loranna does it, staying on an even keel this day, he thought.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 02:52 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 08:41 PM)

"If she had loved me, or even cared about me, she would've picked up a weapon, done SOMETHING, and tried to save me. But no, she let me lie there, while she fled." She went right up to Loranna's face and said "Do you know what happened to me after she left? The mansion burnt. My body was burned to ashes. I wasn't even dead yet. Because of the nature of the wound, I didn't get the justice to die instantly. I had to suffer. Then get burnt to death."

She looked at Anya and said "How about this one?" Images of Allania's burning body seared through Anya's mind.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:01 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 08:52 PM)

Loranna's eyes narrow, tears begining to trace silvery paths down her face; for a second her face seems almost to be thrown into shadow, as if by flames.

Enough, she says, raising her hands. You died an ugly death, one no one should have to suffer, but its taint has stuck to you, and now you see naught but ugliness where there was only a frightened girl, who loved her sister very much and saw her sacrifice herself for her.

Besmirched eyes should be wiped clean that they may see clearly, she says, wincing slightly but continuing. If you cannot wipe the grime away then I shall help you.

Loranna wipes her eyes, then reaches forward to touch at the spirit's, her hand wet with tears. Look now at your sister, without the burden of your death on your spirit.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 03:04 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 07:48 PM)

"Wait a moment," Tris said. "You want revenge on Loranna, and you want to be one of her guards?"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:08 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 05:48 PM)

"If you really must know I will tell you."He paused to get comfortable and then spoke, "When my Ordinator brethren cowardly joined with Azura, I refused in hopes that some of my order would side with me and drive her minions away."

He stopped and looked around the room and started again, "This was not the case however, Her minions and my brethren both sided against me and brutally abused me and stripped me of my honor and dignity."

"As two of my Ordinators held me from attacking on the high steps of Vivec's Palace, one of the Twilights approached me and spoke to me in my head," "You have refused her offer and now must suffer the wrath of her divine grace." "With that it very painfully gashed my face and I was tossed from the steps of the Palace."

"I was suprised they didn't kill me, i don't care if i have to forfeit my life to get my revenge, i will get my revenge on her and all associated with her!"

After calming down abit he turned back toward Dram and spoke, "Now concerning the reason i have come here seeking Guard duties," " I have come from a broken district there is no order there, people that survived are bound to a life of crime and thievery."

"The towns remaining in Vvardenfell are either in turmoil or too ignorant to except a broken Ordinator." "This is why i have come here, there is no where else for me."

He finnally stopped and waited for a response.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 03:16 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 09:01 PM)

Allania calmed down, and turned to Anya, some anger still evident in her face. Loranna's face is turning red, Allania's anger not meant to be in a human. Allania grinned.

"So, Anya, beloved sister, why should I forgive you?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:20 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 09:08 PM)

"I see," Dram says, turning to the others.

"I normally would make this decision myself," he says, "but since you two are present ... what do you have to say on this?"

Posted by: syronj Today, 03:20 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 09:16 PM)

"Allania," said Shaka quietly. "Because she would have done the same for you. . . . Let it go."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 03:21 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:08 PM)

"You have had your revenge, my friend," Tris said. "Loranna fought against Azura and was slain and restored to life; Azura was named and cast out by the Moon Reiver blade. She will have little power in this realm for a long time to come. The woman Loranna who is lady of Ald Raathim now is not Azura."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 03:21 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 09:20 PM)

"Allania," said Shaka quietly. "Because she would have done the same for you. . . . Let it go."

"You stay out of this, you filthy lizard. I want to discuss this with my sister."

Posted by: Nalion Today, 03:23 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 03:20 AM)

"I see," Dram says, turning to the others.

"I normally would make this decision myself," he says, "but since you two are present ... what do you have to say on this?"

"I would actually like to hear the answer to Tris' previous question first.", Nalion answered. "And to see what he thinks about Loranna. A guard should not bear grudge to the one he is pledged to."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:23 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 06:21 PM)

"I have not had revenge until she is dealt with by my hand and mine alone!"
"She may have been banished but she will return and i will claim my right of revenge!"
"I have no conflict with Her Majesty if i did i would not be here offering my services."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:24 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 09:16 PM)

Loranna sinks to her knees, clutching her shoulder and face controted into a silent scream; she shakes, trying to control herself - but all she can think of is how much she wants someone else to burn, burn for what's happening to her right now ...

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 03:24 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 07:21 PM)

"You stay out of this, you filthy lizard. I want to discuss this with my sister."

"I didn't know you had lived! He cut you so deep that no single person could have survived! I saw your eyes grow cold... I- I wouldn't have left you if you lived. I didn't want to leave you." Anya closed her eyes, her voice dropping to a sobbing whisper, "You saved me, you face showed love again, I c-couldn't have just left that if I thought there was a chance..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 03:28 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:23 PM)

"Ah, Loranna is just a local Dres lord, holding these lands from the House Dres, not a sovereign," Tris said. "If the revenge you want is against Azura... well, all I can say is that Dunmer sometimes live a long time, who knows?"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:31 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 06:28 PM)

"Alright her ladyship then."
"I would like an answer if you will."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:34 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 09:31 PM)

"Alright her ladyship then."
"I would like an answer if you will."

"You want an answer and I will give one - an honest one, to a fellow survivor of the Dawn," Dram says.

"I have little doubt of your ability to fight, Kratos, nor do I doubt that you are a survivor. However, I think right now, you have too much bottled up pain and rage to make a good guard. Guards have to be the ones to keep their heads when everyone else is shouting for blood; if the guards lose their heads ... then everything falls to pieces."

He pauses, then says " ... However ... I also believe that one with your skills could find a place in Ald Raathim still, and if things change ... I can always use an extra head."

Posted by: Nalion Today, 03:35 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 03:31 AM)

"Alright her ladyship then."
"I would like an answer if you will."

"Accepting someone into the service of another, even if she is a friend, does not lie in my authority.", Nalion said reluctantly, leaning back into his chair since he had finished eating.
There seemed to be more that he wanted to say, yet he remained silent.

Posted by: syronj Today, 03:37 AM

QUOTE(Xyber02 @ Aug 6 2005, 09:24 PM)

Anya fainted. Shaka looked at the suffering Loranna and a Slyvos who was out of it, and finally snapped.

He strode forward, his burning eyes a few inches from the revenant. "Monster . . ." he hissed. "Is this what your parents would have wanted for you two? Anya's a better woman than you would ever have been, brave . . ." He choked as he thought of how she had faced every burden that had been placed on her, from slavery to rape to a criminal's life.

He shouted, "To Oblivion with you, then, demon! You're not her sister! Wake up! Wake up, sleeper!"

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:41 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 06:34 PM)

Kratos shifted his wait he wasn't used to a normal life he had been a guard since a very early age and was scared to think of what might become of him, would he farm and grow old and die without regaining his honor, he didn't want to think about it.

He stood up and spoke, "I thank you all for your time.",and with that he walked toward the door.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 03:41 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 08:41 PM)

"Wait a moment," Tris said. "Where are you going?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:43 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 09:41 PM)

"Wait a moment," Tris said. "Where are you going?"

Dram coughs. "I think you misunderstood my meaning, Kratos ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 03:44 AM

QUOTE(syronj @ Aug 6 2005, 09:37 PM)

Allania looks around, and sees Anya lying on the floor, Loranna burning in pain, and Sylvos passed out. "Forgive me, for I have been the fool. After our parents died, Anya was all I had left. When she left me there, I...felt as though everyone had left me. I loved Anya, more than life, but seeing her leave, it shattered that." Allania goes foward to Shaka and says "Before I leave, take this gift" she kisses (or whatever moves her mouth foward towards Shaka's head) Shaka and says "May you last a little longer in battle. She goes to the fallen Anya and says "Please forgive me, dear sister." she kisses Anya and says "In night, your vision will not leave."

Then, in a poof, she was gone.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:46 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 06:43 PM)

Dram coughs. "I think you misunderstood my meaning, Kratos ..."

He turned back and said "Have I, then what did you mean by it?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:47 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 09:44 PM)

Loranna gasps, then groans, but the worst of the pain seems to have passed; she drags herself to her feet, glaring around the room, then blinking away tears ...

" ... Drowning, burning ..." she whispers; right now, having recently suffered both, she couldn't tell which was worse.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 03:50 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 03:46 AM)

He turned back and said "Have I, then what did you mean by it?"

"As I see it, you are in danger of your revenge taking over. You could find help here. Many people here have faught the Azurites. You may not be able to join the guard now, yet that doesn't necessarily mean that your skills aren't needed.", Nalion answered.

Posted by: syronj Today, 03:52 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 09:47 PM)

Shaka hurried over to heal Loranna, gently placing his hands on her temples, the talons glowing blue. "Shhhh," he said. "Thank you, Loranna."

He checked Anya's breathing, but she seemed to be peacefully sleeping. Slyvos was nearly unconscious, but his pulse was steady.

Shaka ran and grabbed a few mages to help him heal the three.

Posted by: Dagoth Lich Today, 03:53 AM

Slyvos' eyes suddenly went wide open, panting heavily, his tail twitching in discomfort.

'each breach into another world... we're making this whole ghost thing worse...'

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 03:54 AM

QUOTE(Nalion @ Aug 6 2005, 06:50 PM)

"Where would i put my skills beside the guard?" "I have spent the majority of my life protecting!" "What would i do?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:55 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 09:53 PM)

Slyvos' eyes suddenly went wide open, panting heavily, his tail twitching in discomfort.

'each breach into another world... we're making this whole ghost thing worse...'

"The time to set things right draws close dear," Loranna says, nodding gratefully to Shaka as she makes her way over to Anya and Slyvos, looking them over as best she can.

"Thank you," she says, kissing Slyvos gently on the lips.

She turns and hugs Shaka. " ... And you too."

Posted by: syronj Today, 03:56 AM

QUOTE(Dagoth Lich @ Aug 6 2005, 09:53 PM)

Slyvos' eyes suddenly went wide open, panting heavily, his tail twitching in discomfort.

'each breach into another world... we're making this whole ghost thing worse...'

Shaka was silent at that; it hadn't occurred to him. A worry for another time . . . .

He placed a hand on Slyvos' shoulder. "Once again I'm in your debt, Slyvos. Thank you."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 03:56 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 6 2005, 09:54 PM)

"Where would i put my skills beside the guard?" "I have spent the majority of my life protecting!" "What would i do?"

"You may not be suited to be a guard right now, but the Lady often has need to call on people with skills like yours," Dram says. "You could still put your fighting skills to use - and, while you're doing that, start building a new place for yourself in the world."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 04:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 06:56 PM)

"Yes i could become an adventurer and mercenary i need to remember my morals."

"I thank you for your help right now i must focus on a place to live and how i will put my guard skills to good use, unless you have something for me to do?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 04:03 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 08:56 PM)

"Right now you said you have no place to go," Tris said. "That makes you a refugee, and Ald Raathim is a haven for refugees. We can find a place for one more. Plus I'd wager you're a good fighter. Stay a while. Things have a way of sorting themselves out."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 04:07 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 6 2005, 10:03 PM)

Dram calls the innkeep over again and hands him some more gold; the innkeep shrugs and wanders off, returning soon with a key to present to Kratos.

"A week's lodgings paid for in full," he tells Kratos, trying not to stare at the scar.

"By then we'll have found a more permanent place; we can even speak to the Lady about the matter," Dram says. "She will doubtless be interested to meet you."

Posted by: Moonblink Today, 04:10 AM

**************

Ahjaar wrote by candle light, the flicker from the fire made the walls dance with light. She put down her quill, and looked behind her at Luxi, who was playing with her new doll on the bed.
"Sweetie, it's time for you to go to sleep." Ahjaar said, standing up from her desk and pushing in the chair.

Loranna had given them a room in the castle, and for the past day she had been spending time with Luxi.
Alot of things were still on her mind, like the assignment that she had been working on before she and Luxi were attacked. The letter she had been writing was to the person who had hired her for the job, and she had explained she would not be able to carry it out.
She would have to find more work.

Ahjaar crossed over to the bed and layed down next to her daughter.
"Mom?"
"Yes?"
"Whats going to happen now? We live in a new place, we have a new life.... Whats going to happen?"
Ahjaar was silent for a mintue.
"Mom?"
"I don't know, sweetie, I don't know."

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 04:13 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 07:07 PM)

"Thank you I would like to arrange a meeting and meet your lady but we will have to postpone it for awhile say two days time?"

He nodded toward his party and started up the steps to his room.

For a time he completly forgot about his scar and didn't realize he had left his helm on the table.

Posted by: Nalion Today, 04:19 AM

QUOTE(SpartanShea117 @ Aug 7 2005, 04:13 AM)

Nalion nodded towards Dram, then watched as the ex-Ordinator left.
"I have to go now. Night is falling and I have a duty, too. Dram, Tris, farewell for now."

With that, the mage left the tavern and made his way to the castle. Once more, he climbed the stairs of the tower again, like the previous night and returned to watch the stars. It would seem that a robed mage standing on the highest tower of the castle would be a very common nightly sight from then on.

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 05:28 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 09:55 PM)

Isidor emerges from the shadows, a slight frown upon his face. "I'm glad this was dealt with, but I fear I won't be able to stay long." he turns to Loranna "Are there any ships that sail for Skyrim?" He then says, in a joking manner, to lighten the mood "Where's my kiss?". He smiles.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 05:35 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 11:28 PM)

Uncharistically, Loranna looks dismayed.

"You're leaving?" she asks. "Why dear? Why now?"

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 05:41 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 11:35 PM)

Uncharistically, Loranna looks dismayed.

"You're leaving?" she asks. "Why dear? Why now?"

"Seeing Anya deal with her past, made me want to confront mine. I left far too much back in Skyrim." He glances down at were the red mark on his skin is burned. "Your father is up there, is he not?"

Posted by: Loranna Today, 05:47 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 11:41 PM)

"Seeing Anya deal with her past, made me want to confront mine. I left far too much back in Skyrim." He glances down at were the red mark on his skin is burned. "Your father is up there, is he not?"

"Aye, he is ..." Loranna says, pulling out a small mirror and gazing into it for a moment. " ... Somewhere; some place filled with ice and stone and, from the looks of it, a bunch of snow white wolves that must have thought he was dinner."

Loranna puts the mirror away. "You plan to go alone?" she asks. "Nalion did that and we ended up having to rescue him ..."

Posted by: Stargazey Today, 05:50 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 6 2005, 11:47 PM)

"Maybe I'll meet him up there. Nice man, your father. Met him once, but still, great man. Yes, I plan to go alone. I won't be gone long, or so I hope. Maybe a week, or two at the most. I wish there was a better way to communicate then letters, but sadly, there isn't. I plan to leave tommorrow morning, if you can provide me with some gold, and a few rations. I also have to repair my weapons and armor." He watched her face, apprehensive about her reaction.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 05:56 AM

QUOTE(Stargazey @ Aug 6 2005, 11:50 PM)

"Actually, I have a way to communicate better than letters," Loranna says. "Allow me to show you the lovely new mirror I just had put in the study, a gift from Her Majesty."

Loranna mulls over Isidor's words. A week, maybe two; it didn't seem much ...

"Where in Skyrim will you be heading?" Loranna asks. "Much as I like boat trips you're looking at a fair bit of time at sea if you go by boat; the guild guide's much faster assuming you are headed anywhere near the major cities ..."

What's left of them, she silently adds.

Posted by: SpartanShea117 Today, 06:29 AM

It had only been an hour and the Ordinator Kratos had already begun sparring with one of the Royal Guards in the castle's courtyard.

"Come on keep your sword hand steady now don't dawdle." He blocked an incoming hit with his shield. The guard was getting rather anxious and upset with how easily Kratos was dealing with him.

Kratos gestured to the guard that the match was over and as soon as he turned his back the guard leapt on him and found himself thrown flat on his back looking up at the golden soldier.

"Now you'll never get anywhere with an attitude like that!"
He left the guard to recover and began a tour through the palace.

Posted by: Tri Today, 07:24 AM

Shai emerged at last from her deep state of meditation, and began the long journey home - to Ald Raathim. She traveled by Guild Guide, silt strider, by boat, and at last by foot, walking past the mines where the vampires had stayed in the days before the battle at Hogithum - the castle was in her sights. She was hurrying resolutely over a hill when the top blew off of it, revealing a deep tunnel down into the depths below.

A burnt looking Marein Nightscar poked his head out of this hole. "Shai! Just the person I was about to scour Tamriel for!" he exclaimed genially.

"Me?"

"Yes, you, Shai, you, because you, like me, have spent the last half year out of sight, hard at work, isn't that so?"

"I suppose..."

"Well, come down into the tunnel! I need you to see what I've been working on..."

Shai jumped into the tunnel after the rogue.

"This," said Marein, "is that blasted crown that possessed my damn head for a few weeks before Hogithum. Since I got my head back, which I'll admit was no easy feat, I've been studying the thing in the hopes of understanding what makes it tick. Observe."

He pointed the crown at a nearby rock, which promptly exploded.

Shai raised her eyebrows. "Handy."

"Yea. The most important discovery, though, I finished refining just today...see, when I was out, when I first got the crown, I ended up possessed, right? Talking to this ghost thing of an evil sorcerer who was effectively in my head. So I said to myself, why not take it a step further?"

"Meaning..."

"Well, why not build upon the powers of this circlet to channel my spirit?"

Shai backed up, shaking her head. "No way I'm getting involved in any spirit channeling, boy, that's like necromancy!"

"Shai, relax! This has nothing to do with the dead!"

She eyed him warily.

"See, if my spellwork is right, I'll still be alive, but I'll be able to speak to the wearer of this crown."

"How does this involve me?"

"Don't you see? This is why I went looking for you! You and I have been away from Loranna and all for half a year! We've been doing work, right? Doing what we each are best at, honing our crafts. I can't stand to be out of the action any longer! With this, you can be here, in Raathim, or wherever duty calls, but still do your own thing!"

"Is that all? No spirit-dealings, ghosts, none of that?"

"None."

"Why do you want me?"

He frowned. "Thought I'd offer you the opportunity, is all."

She thought about it for a while, then abruptly spoke. "All right. I'm in."

He grinned. "I've arranged for a very special person I know to pick up the crown in a few hours. By that time we'll be done and we'll have left to continue our studies."

Shai, as always, didn't waste words. "Let's do it."

Marein began muttering under his breath, waving his hands at the crown, the jewel, Shai, and himself. He continued to do this for over a minute, until at last a strange light flowed from his fingertips, wrapping around the room. When it subsided, Shai could not see. She could not speak. She could not hear. She could not even move.

She was aware of a presence next to her, but the distance between them was an unbreachable infinite space beyond her comprehension. She could hear his voice in her mind, though she could not hear anything else.

"Uh-oh," said Marein.

His spell had robbed them of their bodies.

Posted by: Tri Today, 07:30 AM

Shortly thereafter, Marein's chosen messenger arrived in his cave, donned the circlet, and immediately felt odd.

Marein: Ah. You've arrived.

Shai: He is an idiot.

Marein: Brief as always, Shai. Brief as always. Now, you, wearing the crown. I want you to go up to the castle...

Posted by: Loranna Today, 08:15 AM

Castle, Loranna's Study

After discussing Isidor's plans, Loranna returns to the castle, there to rest after her not-so-pleasant experience in sharing the ghost of Anya's sister's pain.

While she rests, she sends for Tris, having filn brought up for the two to drink; the handsome Breton will find Loranna smiling and with the filn already poured, and a beautiful new mirror mounted over her desk.

"Welcome back dear; have some time to talk?" she asks, grinning.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 08:21 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 01:15 AM)

"Aha," Tris said laughing. "I don't rate the good stuff from Wayrest. You should invite Barenziah too."

Loranna had to know he was teasing; Tris could run up to Wayrest whenever it suited him.

"I have time," he said, taking a drink and leaning on his elbow.

Posted by: Eyes Of the Wolf Today, 08:31 AM

Dastril finally found someone who could train him in marksmanship. He was some dunmer dressed in black and who had just a little bit too many weapons to be a commoner. He told that his name was Irrelevant. They went to the castle training grounds, and the dunmer started to teach Dastril in basics of throwing items.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 08:32 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 02:21 AM)

"She and I polished off my last bottle while you were away, to commerate our agreement," Loranna says, having a sip. "Twenty minutes talking politics, future plans for Ald Raathim, and the probable outcome of the Queen's efforts in the land, two hours talking like old friends on anything but politics and drinking like a couple of barmaids. Dear, she's amazing."

She catches her breath. "Not everyone's happy about the decision; the Nords in particular," she says, frowning a bit. "But I knew some people wouldn't be happy."

Raising her eyebrows, she changes the topic. "Anyway, I was curious; how did the rescue mission go? I see Luxi is safe; I hear a couple of the servants are already musing on having a young girl in the castle - and gossiping about when I'll be having my own."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 01:32 AM)

"What an alarming thought," Tris said. "I could see you with a child, but Slyvos? Oh well, it will happen when it happens. Luxi seems as happy as any child who's been through what she's been through can reasonably be. The slavers are safely in Wolverine Hall, being tried for ebony smuggling. Goranthir's a good swordsman, exceptionally good. But I suppose they would have had the money for the best trainers. He's fearless, as you already knew."

Posted by: Moonblink Today, 08:42 AM

Red. Red life equals death. Red life equals all.

Over and again these words pounded Ahjaar's mind. She tryed to make them stop. She screamed and screamed. But the words repeated. And repeated. And repeated. She couldn't escape.

"Shut Up!" Ahjaar screamed, only to hear the yell echo in the morning.

She was sitting up in bed, sweating. Luxi was watching her with concern.

"Mommy, whats wrong? You were dreaming.."
Ahjaar shook her head. "It was just a dream..."
Ahjaar layed back down, thinking... Luxi interupted her thoughts.
"What was your dream about?"
Ahjaar really didn't know herself. "Oh, just...."
"Yes?"
"...just, um.. a nightmare. I dreamt I was trapped in a room with no doors. I couldn't escape, and there was this woman repeating the same thing over and over again."
"What did she say?"
"She said something about Red Life..."

Luxi shrugged. "I don't know anything about Red life.. I think your brain was just being weird."
Ahjaar smilied. "Yeah I think it was."
Ahjaar lied.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 08:43 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 02:36 AM)

"Slyvos is slowly coming out of his shell more," Loranna says, the joy easily visible in her eyes. "He's still awkward around others but he's becoming more relaxed around Nalion, and he just helped Anya with her ghost problem with only modest entrieaties from me as opposed to serieous entreaties."

"I haven't had a chance to talk to Luxi but she looked to be happy; I'm glad she's all right," Loranna continues. "And yes, Goranthir's fearless - that was what I was afraid of at first."

She grins a moment, then her face turns more serious. "How did the party do overall?" she asks. "I've been giving Allie's instructions to me serious thought, but I'd like to hear your opinion on the people I've found gathering to me lately."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 08:46 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 01:43 AM)

"The battle was a mess," Tris said. "A scramble. We got in each other's way, attempting the same task at the same time. And I'll be honest, Loranna... that's a bloodthirsty bunch. They're going to need a lot of work to be even as effective as we were in the Vaults of Gemin, and you know how crazy that was."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 08:56 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 02:46 AM)

Loranna's shoulders slump. "I was afraid of that," she says, her tone indicating she is not terribly surprised. "They're capable, but they go every which way."

She smirks ruefully. "And yes, I remember how crazy Gemin was. I remember feeling like we were all a bunch of heroes out to grab our own kills instead of really working together as a group, but then, that's what we were - a bunch of heroes."

She thinks. "Sir Radont's back in Ald Raathim now, Shaka if I recall has some experience in the Legions; we could use someone with a grasp of group tactics. Isidor is a powerful warrior but he may be gone at the crucial time, gone to Skyrim, just like my father. Reichi's a good front-line fighter though, and ..."

She hesitates, but swallows and says "Tris, forgive me for asking. Do you think Goranthir would be ready for this?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 09:02 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 01:56 AM)

"I'd trust Goranthir in front of me any day," Tris said. "Would I trust him at my back? Maybe. He's young, he's easily distracted, he sees openings and takes them. He might just leave you stranded, under the misapprehension that whatever he was doing was more urgent."

Tris took a quick, shallow breath.

"Loranna - I've seen the place where the General is. Endless fighting over endless plains. There are spirits there who have been fighting together for thousands of years; they have perfected their skills far past anything I've seen in mortal lands. I trust the General - but I'm not sure we can do this. I'm not sure we could with the best people, and the best training, much less with what we have here."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 09:12 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 03:02 AM)

Loranna feels her stomach drop into a pit.

" ... We don't have any other recourse right now, no?" she says after a moment. "We either make it or else the world we know comes apart."

"I've been trying to track down our friends who we haven't heard from in a while; Teleran, Illidan, Dante, Frostien ..." she says. "I know Anya's just been through a terrible ordeal but right now, she's the best archer I know, and she's here. Dastril I haven't heard from much but I hear he's still around, and he's a Spellsword; we could use the extra magic and sword arm. Ahjaar ... I hate to ask a mother recently reunited with her daughter to take up arms again, but she seems to know magic and fighting too ..."

She frowns a bit. "To be honest, we have a fair number of people good at a number of things but few outright specialists. And we're a bit lacking in non magical ranged fighters; beyond Anya there's your throwing blades and what little archery I've seen from Ahjaar, and I've no clue where Didryn and Thom have gotten off to."

She shrugs. "The impression I got was that we'd be better with specialists; think it's worth trying to encourage some of our all arounders to start boning up on one thing for the next week or two?"

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 09:16 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 02:12 AM)

"You'd really need to ask the General," Tris said slowly, as if feeling his way through his thoughts. "Of course, she's not here to ask. What I saw, what I heard... yes. Specialists. Specialists and teamwork, that's the thing. We want those people who are the best there are at one thing, some thing... the best in Nirn. If they can't do anything but that one thing, that's fine, because the other people will work with them. Like the different parts of a single body."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 09:27 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 03:16 AM)

"And here I was trying to be a more well-rounded woman," Loranna says, chuckling.

"Well, Slyvos and I are already pretty specialized, so we have offensive and defensive magic covered. We have a few pure fighters, Anya's archery from what I hear is progressing excellently for someone who's just getting back into the habit and she's good at survival and stealth. Falco's fast and nimble - not like you, but well enough."

Loranna considers. " ... Maybe we can work with our more all arounders to come up with specific tactics to focus on. Shaka has both Bitter Mercy and an Amulet of Shadows; those and some magic and he's as good at sneaking around the enemy's lines as Falco could be. Dastril said he liked fire magic, and so does Slyvos, but Slyvos knows a lot of other spells ..."

Loranna bites her lip. "I need to start asking people what they feel their strengths really are, what attacks they favor most. And it occurs to me that having a second person who can use healing and support magic would be nice as well, but the next best healer in town is Egalius and he's not combat-tested ..."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 09:33 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 02:27 AM)

"The most important thing is that they need to be able to trust each other with their lives," Tris said. "We'll be... everything you thought you knew, everything you think you are..."

He fell silent. There simply weren't words for what he was trying to say. You had to be there.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 09:39 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 03:33 AM)

"That's the part that most frightens me," Loranna says quietly. "Even more so to hear how your voice catches when you speak of it. If a Void Ranger is afraid of something, what are the rest of us to feel?"

She pauses, lost in her own thoughts for a moment.

" ... Nothing can be done about this; we simply have to deal with it when it happens, right?" she says. "So why worry ahead of time about something we can barely conceive until we've gone through it? We have enough to worry about figuring out how to assemble a group from our companions to do what must be done."

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 09:45 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 02:39 AM)

"You with the heroic morale-boosting speech," Tris said, smiling. "What goes around comes around, eh, Loranna? I'll try to keep a good front in public. This would be easier with Ciel here, that's all; everything's easier with Ciel."

Posted by: Loranna Today, 09:53 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 03:45 AM)

Loranna grins, stands up and goes over to give Tris a supportive embrace. "I know," she says. "And, I've had good teachers."

Tris's comment about Ciel sparked the realization in Loranna's mind of just how harried her friend really was; she hugs him a little tighter, as if to impart some of her strength to him to help him keep his spirits up.

Then, out of the blue, she remembers the way Tris looked after the ritual that initiated her into the cult of Dibella, how drained and liquid and oh so very tempting-looking, and with a bit of shock she lets go of Tris, giggling a bit at her own foolishness and trying not to sound to uneasy.

Bad Loranna; no bad thoughts about swallowing up cute Bretons, she tells herself. ... Maybe I better talk to Harman before I go through this; I still have thoughts from when Azura possessed me mucking around in my head.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 09:57 AM

QUOTE(Loranna @ Aug 7 2005, 02:53 AM)

Tris gave Loranna an all-too-knowing smile.

"Thank you," he said.

"Lor... you just reminded me of something. I'll be back soon."

And he left, just like that, without even a puff of smoke.

Posted by: Loranna Today, 10:01 AM

QUOTE(Allerleirauh @ Aug 7 2005, 03:57 AM)

Tris gave Loranna an all-too-knowing smile.

"Thank you," he said.

"Lor... you just reminded me of something. I'll be back soon."

And he left, just like that, without even a puff of smoke.

"You're welcome ..." Loranna says to the empty air, sinking down into her chair and laughing.

"Right; I just have woefully wrong thoughts at a bad time and he still said thank you; yes, I think we trust one another with our lives," Loranna says, downing the rest of her filn. "Hope Slyvos feels up to some cuddling later, after that summoning ..."

Posted by: Xyber02 Today, 10:09 AM

Please find it in your heart to forgive me. Take this as I leave..." The whisper echoed through her mind.

The sun shown brightly on the Grazelands, the grass bending in a slight breeze. Two little girls ran through the feild chasing each other. Laughter filled the air, and not another care could be found. The younger sister tripped in a tumble and giggle, the elder sister smiling lovingly.

"I loved you..."

Anya feel into a deep sleep after that, restful for once, haunted by neither dreams nor nightmares.

After a long while, though Anya couldn't tell how long, she stirred. Opening her eyes, she found herself in her room.

Standing up, she found herself in a plain gown, blushing slightly and hoping it was a female servant that helped her into it. Slipping into some sandals, she walked down the halls, hoping to find someone to help her find out what had happened. The nightmares that were inflicted upon her when her sister came had drained her so much physically, she simply couldn't survive it much longer and blackness claimed her.

Several of the more observant servants that had watched her the past few weeks noticed a change in her face, in her demeanor. She still carried a hollow look in her eyes and hurt crossed her face, the wounds still wide open. But the haunted and tormented look of terror was gone, and the mending could start.

A singular tear rolled down her cheek, but not one born of helplessness or terror.

Posted by: Allerleirauh Today, 10:25 AM

Wayrest: the House of Sternhart

What Tris had remembered was the time. It was mid-morning; time to give Herwyn Brand a rose. Tris wondered if Herwyn had missed him.

His routine was simple; find Herwyn Brand (Queen Elysana's spymaster) in his bedroom, follow him through the Void while he traveled to the local inn for breakfast, then leave a single Wayrest rose (plucked from the garden of a most disagreeable old lady who thought Tris needed the roses for a lover) in Herwyn's path as he traveled to Queen Elysana's new palace, the Void Ranger-proof Dome of Wayrest.

Herwyn wasn't in his bedroom. Had he changed his schedule?

Investigation, and a little eavesdropping on the household staff, revealed that Queen Elysana's spymaster wasn't in Wayrest at all. He was missing; his household staff supposed he was on a trip of some sort. It wasn't unusual for him to travel at short notice. It wasn't possible for Tris to enter the Wayrest dome to find out more.

Disappointed, Tris took the rose with him and went to his father's house. The House of Sternhart, where his father, Count Sternhart, lived with his young wife, Ymalna, and their infant son. Tris hadn't seen the boy since the day of his birth, two months earlier. He wondered what name his father had chosen.

From here, within the Void, the nursery seemed warm and inviting. Soft morning light streamed through the windows, and fresh herbs were strewn on the floor. Ymalna, a dark-haired girl of sixteen who had been pale and drawn the last time he had seen her, looked radiant today. Skin fair and pure as milk, slender, active, laughing.

Tris watched her hold her fat baby to her breast and croon to him, and a pain colder than the cold of the Void pierced him to the bone. Had he come here planning to step through, into that room? Perhaps to cover her eyes and make her laugh? To make her love him, and forget his father, as he had many times before?

"I'm crazy," Tris said out loud, standing in the Void, looking at the room, looking at his own heart. "Sweet saints, Ciel must think I'm crazy. Not just crazy but evil."

A more mundane pain woke him from his thoughts. He was crushing the stem of the rose in his hand; and Wayrest roses had thorns.

He returned to Ald Raathim, wondering where Barenziah was. And if she would like a rose.

Posted by: Salamandar Today, 02:35 PM

Time to close this thread, and start a new one.

ciao,
Salamandar