WHOA!!! you had to leave it with such suspense... !!! WHY!!!???

I wasn't expecting this! The nords attacking and inmates fighting! It was glorious. And that ring sounds like a nice thing to have around!
Melvin I bet is in alot of trouble. Or isn't?
I shall wait for the paper then!!!

Naughty, naughty, naughty ending the chapter at this moment. I wanna know what has happened to Erick's good buddy. Shame about J'Dato too.

I thought about adding the content to the end of the chapter, and then I thought....."Nah, let 'em wait!"

That's very cruel of you!
I have a mind to stop reading this because of that.
But, it's too good! lol

Sorry...I just like me cliff hangers!

CHAPTER ELEVEN


If you are reading then thankfully you have passed your first test. I do hope you remember me, Erick. You were quite exhausted when I last spoke with you, and I had feared you took my presence as a mere dream. But here we are, communicating once again, though this time through a quill and a scroll.

I am sorry for not telling you what exactly what was going to happen tonight, but that would have made things too easy. I knew by your past history you wouldn’t have trouble with the Skaal, and apparently I was correct in that assumption. I want to congratulate you on a job well done, but of course there are other things to discuss. You of course want to ask me many questions, I am sure of that, but alas you will be forced to wait a little longer. For now you will follow my next orders, and if you are once again successful I will answer some of your questions.

You are a pawn in something that I have been trying to accomplish for quite some time. I’ve watched you and your fellow inmates ever since you all came to this island. Though there are only a few of you I have plans for, and you Erick are one of those select individuals.

Do not worry about your friend, Melvin. He is safe for now, but that may all change in due time, depending on your choices of course. For now I will tell you nothing else, other than to meet in Raven Rock tonight. You will recognize me quickly, I assure you.

And, after careful consideration, I am bringing Bruno and Captain Falx into the picture. I know you likely don’t agree with this at all, but it is best they come along the journey. I will explain everything later. Look for Bruno in the place he’s found most. That’s an easy enough riddle; you shouldn’t have any trouble deciphering it. And of course you already know where to find Captain Falx. You will have a tough time getting him to listen and believe you, but I trust you can handle it. If not then he and the others will have to die, it’s as simple as that.

Madila and Teemee are to be brought as well.

Do not bring anyone with you except for Madila, Bruno, Falx and Teemee. You three are the missing link to my group of saviors. Only you five will suffice. Anyone else who is with you will be killed in the most horrible way. Now, I must leave you once more, but I hope to see you soon, Erick.

Though I have not visited Teemee and Madila, I have a funny feeling they will believe in everything you say. It is you who must stand up and take lead. You are a unique individual, Erick, with plenty of potential. I plan on unearthing your inner strengths soon…..

I took the letter and stuffed it in the back of my pants pocket, where I was sure it’d be safe. I was now confused as ever, and just as the letter had suggested, there were indeed many question circling though my head. Melvin’s disappearance, the ring, how she knew what was going to happen, Madila’s, Bruno’s and Teemee’s role in all of this….and so much more. I was just didn’t know what to think. And apparently if I ever wanted to see Melvin again I would have to show up at Raven Rock with the four she mentioned. It seemed as if I was on my own person quest: to save my best friend.

And yet another dilemma immediately popped up as well. What was I going to tell Captain Falx? I of course wanted to think that’d he believe me about the voice, the ring, and everything else. But the reality was that I knew he wouldn’t. I was already on his bad list anyway, so getting him to have an actual civilized conversation was going to be a challenge in itself.

I took the ring off of my finger and placed in my side pants pocket and stepped back outside. The blizzard had finally ceased but it was still nighttime, likely around midnight. Everyone was still seemingly floating around the area, not really knowing what to do other than stare. I spotted Falx with the jailor and five other Imperial soldiers.

“Sir, there’s something I need to talk to you about….in private,” I requested politely. Unfortunately Captain Falx wasn’t in the mood for talking, especially to the likes of me.

“What the hell do you want now? I gave you permission to release Melvin…”

“Melvin isn’t there, sir. He’s gone…”

The Captain looked at curiously, and then towards his jailor with the same look of confusion.

“Don’t look at me, I didn’t let him out,” the Jailor claimed.

Then Falx sighed heavily and said, “Fine, come with me, Erick.”

We walked inside the castle and Falx slammed the door shut. He was clearly angry, and not just at the battle. Apparently I was right and he really didn’t want to speak with me at the moment.

“What is it, Erick? What in the world do you want? We’ve just been attacked and now many dead bodies of our own like in the red snow, but I know you come before anyone else,” he said sarcastically. “Now tell me…tell me what it is that is so important!”

“I…last night I was visited in my room and it wasn’t any of us.”

“Okay….” He said as if signaling me to continue.

“I think it was a witch, but it was invisible. She…she gave me a ring and told me to…”

Before I had a chance to carry on Falx rudely interrupted me.

“Are you serious, Erick? Are you deliberately trying to agitate me? I can’t even begin to believe that’d you try something at a time of such crisis that we are in right now.”

He started to walk towards the door but I yelled, “I am not lying, sir! It is all true, I can…I can give you this…”

Again I had forgotten about the curse that was cast upon me, and once I tried to show Falx the ring something terrible came from my mouth.

“Some leader you are…what do you plan on doing now, ‘Captain’? You never were a good leader…”

Immediately I was hit square in the jaw by Flax’s armored fist. Blood squirted from the left bottom corner of my mouth and I went flying backwards. I hit the back of my head against a door and I fell to the ground feeling woozy. I thought I was going to pass out but thankfully I did not.

“I swear to Talos, Erick, you will never…NEVER speak to me like that. I don’t care what you say or what you think, I am the Captain of this place and you will abide by my rules. If things were normal I would lock you away in The Can, but things are not as how we all would want.”

Suddenly the door I ran into opened, revealing Antonius Nuncius. He was standing in the door way, clutching a spear so tight his hands were turning white from the grip.

“Antonius…so this is where you have been during the fighting?” Falx asked questioning.

“I’m sorry, Captain, but there is nothing I would have been to help with. I am no fighter. I figured I’d stay here and guard our shrine. Who knows what those filthy Nords would have done to it if they found it here.”

Falx rolled his eyes and responded, “Very well, but I don’t have time to deal with you now. Step outside while I finish my business with Erick.”

Antonius stared at me for several seconds, and while he did so he said to Captain Falx, “You know, Captain…I couldn’t help but hear your conversation with this inmate. And I think I should let you know that he came to me just the other day, complaining and dreams and what not. Perhaps that could be the source of his claims? Maybe the recent events and his friend’s disappearance have messed with his head and he no longer and can distinguish idealism from reality?”

Captain Falx walked up, picked me up by the shirt collar, and pressed me up against as wall. I was quite small and this was not a very hard task for someone as strong as he was.

“I am very tempted to kill you right now, Erick, but unfortunately the Legion forbids me from doing so. Stay out of my way. The next time you pull something like this you will regret it. That is your final warning…”

And with that he tossed me to the ground and walked through the doors, with Antonius following from behind. But as the doors shut Antonius turned around and gave me a sarcastic smile. He never did like me and I never did like him. It seems now he had finally gotten to me in the worst way. Now Falx was never going to believe me.

As I got up from the cold floor and wiped myself off, I berated myself for not acting like the so-called ‘new man’ I claimed to. I had told myself that I was no longer going to let anyone treat me bad, and then Falx comes along and does just that.

I walked outside and Falx was already talking to the men. “We will march to Raven Rock and seek shelter there. Hopefully they haven’t been attacked as well. Let’s move out…”

I then of course thought of the old lady and what she had said about anyone else traveling to Raven Rock. She had told that everyone besides Falx, Madila, Teemee and I would die. I wasn’t about to let everyone march to their death.

“Wait, Captain,” I screamed as they started to make there way outside the fort boundaries. “You can’t leave sir, everyone will die!”

I know how crazy I sounded, and Captain Falx had already unsheathed his sword upon hearing my voice.

“I thought I told you to stay out of my way,” he said without emotion while walking towards me. But before he could do anything Madila stepped in between me and the Captain.

She stood there with her own blade unsheathed as well, ready to defend me. I didn’t really know what to think. Never have I heard her mutter more than a few words, and now she’s standing right in front of me ready to fight the Captain.

“Step aside, Madila, this doesn’t concern you,” Falx said sternly.

“Oh, it most certainly does, Captain. Erick happens to be my partner, and I’m not about to let you hurt him.”

“I said step aside, Madila!”

“No, just leave! He’s doing you know harm right now!”

Just then Teemee stepped in front of my as well. His eyes were a bit moist from crying, but he held his wooden spear bravely. “You’ll have to go through me too, Captain. I will not let you hurt him.”

Captain Falx threw up his and hands and shouted, “Fine, stay here and get killed when the Skaal come back, I don’t care! And they will come back, mind you. Mark my words!”

He then turned around and began walking into the forest. Everyone else followed him except for me, Madila, and Teemee. “Just let them go, Erick. They’ll find out what you were trying to warn them about soon enough.”

Erm.... typo?

Other than that, a fascinating update. Just who is this witch, and just what exactly is she up to? Why has she taken Melvin? I guess we'll have to be patient. It's moving along nicely now, you've created a strong sense of forthcoming doom.

I'm enjoying this Redsrock, keep it coming

Thanks. yeah, about that typo....I commented over at TESFU. Sorry about that, it actually was very difficult for me to even figure out. Oh well, I can't be perfect....not like Aaron Harang...

Brilliant updates! The action is starting to pick up at a great pace. I'd say I liked the touch of the slower first updates which fleshed out and introduced the characters. That way, when the action actually picks up, we will know the characters much better and care for them much more.

And, for some strange reason, the name 'Barbas' flashed while I read your latest update. I'm not sure why. You do know who, well better said, what Barbas is don't you?

No...not really. Care to elaborate? I'm acutally quite curious now...

Well, Barbas is the Hound of Clavicus Vile. You can indirectly meet him in Oblivion during the Daedric quest for Clavicus Vile and you can also meet him directly in TESA: Redguard. It's kind of improbable that anyone currently active on these boards played that game, however.

http://www.imperial-library.info/book_daed....shtml#clavicus

Scroll to the section with Clavicus Vile and there you can learn all about Barbas. Barbas even speaks to you in Oblivion, and his quips are somewhat interesting. He says that he was a Redguard once. This story does happen before Oblivion doesn't it? Bruno is a Redguard isn't he? Bruno and Barbas both share a name beginning with the letter 'B'. I smell plot twists.

The choice is yours though.

No, I won't be doing that, especially since you have laid everything out in front of me! Plus I just don't think it would be a lot of sense. Of course then again Barbas and Sheogorath don't make a lot of sense either...

It's good to have friends.

Anyway, I wonder how exactly everyone is going to get killed now. Assassin with poisoned bolts is a possibility, but that is pushing it consider the sheer number of people. Werewolves? Maybe, but what exactly would keep the chosen ones alive then? Sorcery? If she's so powerful, why would she need our common thugs?

Ah well, I'll just read in the update.

CHAPTER TWELVE


I watched solemnly as the others exited the fort, unknowingly walking to their deaths. I wanted so much to save them from an early fate, but what was I to do? They hadn’t listened to me earlier when I first made my pleas, plus Falx was on the verge ending my own life if Madila hadn’t stepped in. Wait….that’s right…..Madila had just saved my life and I had yet to thank her for the heroic deed. I suppose I was too surprised by what she did. After all the months of silence and solitude I was completely taken back by her actions, so much that I forgot to give my thanks.

“Thanks for saving me, Madila. I think he was really going to kill me, though I can’t be too sure.”

“Oh, he was going to kill you alright,” she said while helping me up from the bloody snow. “After catastrophes such as the one that just took place, people often turn to drastic measures. I’ve seen it hundreds of times, and this scene was no different from the others. Don’t feel too bad, Erick. Although Falx is a complete idiot, we can’t judge him too harshly…not after what just happened.”

Those mere 35 words that came from her mouth were more than I have ever heard before this day put together. It was actually quite awkward in a way; like I was meeting her for the first time. I really wasn’t sure how to react.

“Well it’s a good thing you stepped in.” And then I saw Teemee give a sad look, and I realized I had forgotten him as well. “And you too of course,” I responded with a smile, and then Teemee returned the facial favor.

Then everyone’s attention turned to J’Dato’s lifeless body that lay on the ground. I could see tears form into Teemee’s eyes at once, and right then I wanted to decide on what to do with the body as soon as possible.

“What should we do with the body?” I asked the two.

“I say put the body somewhere and be done with it. There are things that have to be done, and we cannot remain idle too much longer. Falx was right, the Skaal will be back soon with a much larger force.”

I looked at Madila and simply marveled at what was taking place. I know I’ve already said this once before, but it’s like I’m meeting her for the first time. It was actually quite disturbing in a way, though I can’t quite explain why. It was…just the odd nature of how she’s come from extremely silent to very talkative.

And looking at Teemee, I could tell he was a bit insulted by Madila’s words. Though she might not have meant it, Madila sounded as if she didn’t care much for J’Dato, and that a proper burial was unnecessary. I for one would have to be with Teemee on this issue. J’Dato deserved a proper burial. Even though I didn’t get along with him all the time, he was still a partner and a friend of mine. I wasn’t about to just leave him in the cold.

“No, I think we should bury J’Dato. It’s the least he deserves,” I said forcefully, but not in a rude way.

Teemee’s face lit up with glee in happiness that I was taking his side in this matter. Madila on the other hand simply rolled her eyes and sighed heavily. “Very well, you two may bury the body, I will scout ahead just to make sure we aren’t being watched.”

She began to walk outside the fort and into the forest, towards Raven Rock. That’s when I stopped her. “No, wait…you can’t go to Raven Rock…not without me anyways.”

She turned around and gave me an interesting look, and then said, “I’m not going to Raven Rock, just the surrounding area to make sure you two are safe while digging and burying.” And then she continued on her way.

“What’s gotten into her? It’s as if we’ve met her for the first time or something…” Teemee whispered as she walked away. I smiled a bit, only because what Teemee said is what I’ve been thinking this entire time.

“You took the words right out of my mouth.”

But the smiles faded as we turned our attention to J’Dato once again. His body lay limp in the snow with his eyes still open. This brought memories back during the rebellion in Vvardenfell.

I remember those times…..so many bodies on the floor…..with their eyes open as well, as if they didn’t want to die, but alas had no choice but to surrender their souls to the father of death.

I shook my head hard, wanting to forget about the past. Now was not the time to dwell on those terrible days; maybe later perhaps, but not now.

So we placed some torches around the area so that we could see, and then we dug a small hole, which took a lot longer than I expected; three hours in fact. The hardest part was getting past all the snow and blood, which wasn’t a pleasant take mind you. And the entire time Madila was in the forest, doing who knows what. And finally after the hole was dug Teemee and I placed the body into the hole and then covered it with dirt, which took another twenty minutes or so. Thankfully the hole wasn’t too deep or else it would have taken ages for us to complete the task. You’d think it wouldn’t be too hard since we were miner, and all we did was dig all day, but that simply wasn’t the case.

“What….now?” Teemee gasped after throwing his shovel to the ground in exhaustion.

“I’d say a few words if I were you. Eve if you won’t admit I know you two were good friends…” I said, and Teemee simply looked on at the hole without looking at me.

“You’re right, we were good friends, and just now I realize that. Its funny how things work out, you know? You never really see the good in things until it’s too late.”

I patted him on the shoulder and said, “Well here we are, my friend. This is your last change to make due and say what you want. It’s your decision.”

Without looking at me he took a deep breath and said a few words. It wasn’t much, nothing too important. It was simply an apology that he didn’t see the good in their friendship. Teemee then knelt beside the burial spot, buried his head into his claws, and began weeping uncontrollably. I didn’t know whether to console him or let him have his time. I ultimately decided on the latter, for that seemed like the right decision to me.

Once he was finished he wiped his snout with his sleeve and rose from the ground. He stared at the burial site for several minutes, thinking deeply about many things I’d say. Then he turned to me, nodded, and said, “Alright, I’m through crying.”

He said this in a sort of tone like ‘what are we going to do now’, and to be completely honest, I wasn’t sure what to do. I suppose waiting for Madila to return was the best decision, and as soon as I thought that she appeared through the back entrance of the fort.

“Are you two finished? I’ve scouted the area and the coast is clear for now. But like I’ve said several times already we need to move before they do come back. I trust you two are ready to go?”

“Go where?” I asked while staring at her curiously.

“Wherever you take us, Erick. You were the one who told the others not to go to Raven Rock without you. Obviously you have a plan in mind. Please tell if I’m wrong.”

“No…you’re right,” I said, still looking at her curiously. “Are you sure you’re okay, Teemee?” He nodded. “Alright, then let’s go to Raven Rock….”


+++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++ +++++


Upon arrival at the fort I almost passed out. And not because of a mass of bloodied bodies, or a town engulfed in flames, but something else…..the town was completely barren of any life at all. The weirdest part was that everything was pretty much normal. Everything was where it was supposed to be, the buildings were all intact, and there were absolutely no signs of a struggle.

“By Talos…” Teemee whispered loudly.

It was so weird, yet there was something else bugging me. Somehow I could sense something was terribly wrong in this settlement, though I wasn’t sure what. I ran around opening all the doors to every house and looking inside them, only to find nothing. I had hoped perhaps everything was alright and that everyone was simply sleeping. Yes, I know that sounds a bit silly, but I didn’t want to think that they were all gone. I mean, there was nothing to go on. Nothing evidence, nothing…

When I got back to the front of Raven Rock Teemee and Madila were still standing there. Teemee had the exact awestruck expression and attitude that I had, while Madila sat outstandingly calm with her arms crossed.

“Nobody’s here,” I said sounding very worried, and for good reason of course. “I just don’t understand it.”

“Did you check the mine?” Madila asked.

Without responding I immediately bolted towards the mine with great anticipation. I expected everyone to be in there, huddled up together, waiting for me with open arms. But when I opened the double doors and entered the mine I was met with the most sickening and horrifying sight I had ever seen in my life.

Hanging from the rafter, at the top of mine, were a number of bodies, all skinned to the bone. But the job wasn’t too pretty, and some of the flesh was still drooping from the limps. It was so disgusting I almost hurled on the spot. And then upon looking at the floor I realized it was paved with crimson red blood, the entire floor in fact. That’s when I noticed bodies lying up against the wall, skinned as well, as if positioned by someone. Somebody with the sickest mind did this, and now I knew were everyone had gone…to their graves of you will.

Madila and Teemee followed shortly, and when the Argonian saw the bodies we instantly ran back out and began puking his guts out. Madila simply came in and stopped right beside me.

“So…what do you think?” Madila asked.

I looked at her crazily and responded with, “What do you mean? It’s horrible, just horrible!”

I noted two bodies in the corner of the room, Falx and Bruno. The old lady had said to look where Bruno was found most, and here I was. I just wasn’t expecting to find him dead.

“It’s a shame, really,” Madila said after sighing heavily. “I really didn’t want to kill Bruno, but he gave me no choice.”

What? Did she just say what I thought she said? Madila was the killer? No…it couldn’t be…it just couldn’t…

“What did you just say?” I asked her as if she were insane.

She then merely smiled and suddenly a loud noise sounded and a dust of purple smoke overcame Madila. When the fog cleared seconds later Madila was replaced with an old wrinkly lady in a dark black robe with the hood down. Her bright white hair lingered far down her spine, all the way down to her knees.

“What’s wrong, Erick? You don’t know who I am, do you?”

As soon as she spoke I recognized her voice. It was the old lady from the other night!

“What…h-h…how?” I barely stammered.

Madila...or whoever this person was, laughed maniacally. “Oh, Erick, there are many things you don’t understand! But there’s no need to fret, I’m here now, ready to answer some of your questions!

I backed up from where I was standing and I almost tripped over the slick bloody underfoot. I just couldn’t believe it, and I pinched myself to see if I was dreaming, and this caused the lady to laugh once again.

“Erick, Erick, Erick! This is no dream, my boy! This is real!” she yelled while throwing her crinkled hands up in the air. I looked outside and I noticed that Teemee was somehow frozen in time. Vomit was steady in place in-between his open mouth and the ground. It appeared this…something…had frozen time once more.

“What the hell is going on?” I screamed, unable to hide the fear within me.

Woah, from harmless mute to bloody creepy witch. That's creepy. (Wait, I already said that, didn't I? )

And quite powerfull as well. Illusion magicka, pretty advanced, perhaps even at Tharn level though that isn't sure. (Frostmoth sounds like a place of rejects, I don't think there are any real powerful mages there who can detect magicka, unlike the Imperial palace which is probably swarming with them.)

Time-stop, or perhaps she's messing with Erick's mind. I prefer the latter, because the former places her awfully close to Akatosh.

Though all that begs the question, why Erick? What does she need Erick for? For her own safety? Come on, was everyone else not good enough or something? And she seems more than powerful enough to take care of herself. Why was she playing prisoner in the first place? And what's up with the skinning. Woman, you can't make me think you're good if you go and skin people! I can handle good guys who are forced to do evil stuff by the circumstances, but at least they would be clean and quick with their killing!

So, I guess Erick will look for a way out now. No way he's going to trust Madila after that.

So you like it? I sure hope so....

There is A LOT of dialogue in this one, but I think it was definitely needed. Yes I realize there are still many questions to be answered, but they will have to wait for now.....


CHAPTER THIRTEEN

“I said tell me what is going on!” I repeated, trying to sound brave and angry, but I was more fearful than anything, and unfortunately the old lady could sense this.

“Oh, Erick, why are you attempting to sound like such a courageous warrior? Everyone knows that you are nothing but a lonely boy without his best friend, letting everyone step on you. Is that not the truth, Erick?”

This lady knew much more than I could have ever imagined. She has somehow cracked through my false mentality of being a tough-guy, and she knows me for my true self; which is a mere timid inmate trying to survive this frozen island.

“What are you…a witch?” I asked. I remembered the stories told to me as a child. I always thought they were wondrous tales filled with awe-striking fiction. These were always fables to me, and I never once they could have been true. But now I think I was wrong.

“Well, to be honest I don’t really enjoy that particular term, but yes, that is exactly what I am; though I am also something more as well. Ah, but enough about me. I must not tell you everything about myself just yet. That would ruin the fun…”

“Fun?”

“Yes, Erick, fun….like I’ve told you before in that letter, you are a pawn in something so incredible. You really should be appreciative that I’ve chosen you for the job.”

“Enough of these damn riddles! Just tell me what’s going on!”

The smile was erased from her wrinkly face. “Very well, child. Go ahead and ask your questions, and I will do my best to answer them. But I cannot promise all inquiries will be addressed.”

At last I was able to hush her playful antics and riddles. At last I was given the change to ask simple questions.

“First off…what is this ‘game’ you speak of? What exactly is your motive for everything that’s happening, and are you the source of everything that’s been taking place?”

“Child, that is three questions at once, but then again I’d also say that those questions all intertwine into one larger picture. And just so you don’t call me ‘witch’ anymore, please address me as Madila, for that is my true name after all. I am a loner of Solstheim, and I have been for quite some time. It just so happens that a curse was casted upon my body long ago. The curse forbids me from leaving this island for the rest of eternity, and to be frank, I don’t quite like the frigid cold of this island. I much prefer eastern Cyrodiil and its warm atmosphere. For all these years, which is more than I can count I’m afraid, I have marched through the tundra, patiently waiting for an individual skilled enough to complete the task that will set me free. I have finally found that person, and it is you, Erick.”

Okay…a little light had just been shed on what’s going on, but there were still hundreds of holes to be filled by more question-and-answering.

“If you’re from Cyrodiil then what were you doing here in Solstheim, and who put this curse on you? How exactly does it work?” I asked.

“Long ago I was fascinated with the evils of Castle Karstaag and what it contains. Rumor had it, that even though the palace had been desolate for sometime, there were still treasures and other items still resting and ready to be looted. The place was of course a danger to all who wish to travel through, but I went anyway.”

“So you were a simple dungeon dweller trying to find some expensive loot?” I interrupted.

“Child, if you want your questions answered, please try and refrain from interrupting me when I speak. That is most rude; I would think a gentleman such as your self would already know this.”

She said this with a lot of anger, and then continued.

“I was NOT a beggar looking for plunder…I was there searching for special indigents for a potion that I was planning on creating. When I entered the magnificent castle I searched around for a while, just marveling at how beautifully crafted it was. It is truly a piece of art, you know. But, I digress. I eventually ran into a mage with a long silver beard. He was an old man, and a Breton I believe. Anyway, he was a sweet little man, and I…well…I fell in love with him. We talked for hours about many things, and that’s when he told me what he was after. He was searching for the exact same thing I was! What a coincidence, huh?
“Well, one thing led to another and suddenly I found myself pairing up with the man in search for my ingredients. We made a deal to share whatever we found, and that was that. I didn’t really want to…but his charm was what hooked me in. When we found the ingredients we were immediately attacked by Frost Atronachs. They struck quickly and without hesitation. I grabbed the ingredients and ran, and while doing so the man I was with was somehow pinned to the ground by a fallen rock. He pleaded for me to save him, but my selfishness kicked in and I ran out of the castle without looking back. I thought I had seen the last of that man, but I was wrong….terribly wrong.”

Madila paused for a second and looked at the bloody floor below us, and then went back to her explanation for this mess.

“Two days later, in a cold cave north of the forest before Raven Rock was there, I was visited by a voice, something similar to what I have done to you, in fact. As soon as he started to speak I knew who it was, and I thought I was dreaming, nothing else. But then his body appeared and he threw me into rocky wall, and it hurt. I knew I wasn’t a dream. The man calls himself Lord Vero. The only thing I know is that he is a powerful age, one who is not prone to aging. Please do not ask me how this is possible, I myself am still trying to figure this out.
“But because of my bad deed he punished me by casting the spell upon me. He explained that he had ‘tested’ me because he was simply bored, and that the Frost Atronachs had been conjured by him! And now, here I am, wondering this island searching for someone who can end my suffering. And that person is you, Erick.”

“But how am I part in all of this?”

“Well, it evolves around my capturing of Melvin. You are the only inhabitant of this island who cares for someone. It isn’t just Melvin, but you cared for your mining partners as well. But I took Melvin because he is your best friend, a brother-figure even. I had to take what’s closest to you in order for things to pan out. I know you, Erick, and you will do anything to save Melvin.”

“What are you trying to say? Why didn’t you just go after some Nord or something?”

“Because my savior must be a foreigner to this island, and obviously the Nords are not. It appears that this whole thing has evolved from a sick game of Lord Vero, nothing else. I cannot explain it any further that that. You do want to save Melvin, don’t you?”

“Yes…of course I do. But I’m just so confused. Why the killing of everyone else and…the skinning…why did you skin them?” I asked sickly.

“That, Erick, was not my doing. That was performed by a creature of great power. Have you ever heard the story of the Udyrfrykte?”

I shook my head.

“This beast I speak of, it’s killed hundreds of men, and Lord Vero has ordered the killing of this creature as one of three tasks.”

“What do you mean by tasks?”

“It’s a long story, Erick, and I think I will wait until I tell you anything else. For now I will leave you and the Argonian. But listen to me…Travel to Lake Fjalding, and there you will find another letter placed on an odd looking stone on the eastern shores of the lake. In the letter I will explain everything about these…games…and your role in all of this. I am sorry I cannot talk more, but I must leave this place for now.”

I yelled after her, wanting to ask more, but before I could say anything she vanished in purple haze. Suddenly Teemee appeared from outside and asked, “Who are you yelling at, Erick?” But after seeing the bodies he left and vomited all over again.

I just stared at the bodies. Bruno, Captain Falx, even Falco…everyone was dead. Only Teemee and my self were left, and I really didn’t know what to think at the moment. Sure, Madila had answered many of my questions, but there were still countless more. It was frustrating when you knew so much, but at the same time you knew so little as well.

I walked outside and sat on a tree stump, staring out into the forest while waiting for Teemee to finish his business. This Lake Fjalding…I had never heard of the place. Apparently it was a lake, but where this body of water was I had no clue. Hopefully Teemee would know.

And so after he was finished puking I told him everything. After I was finished I don’t think he quite understood everything just yet, but neither did I.

“I will be leaving soon, Teemee. I can’t let Melvin suffer whatever pain he is going through right now. I don’t even know what is to come of myself, but I have to make to this lake. Do you know where it is?”

“It’s in the northeast I believe, southwest of the Skaal village of Thirsk.”

“Thank you. I’m going to gather up some supplies, and I’m to say this now: you do not have to come with me, Teemee. I understand if you do not want to come along, but I would rather you do. The journey will obviously be treacherous, and I would appreciate the help.

Teemee smiled and responded, “Of course I’ll come. And it’s not as if I have a choice. Where would I go, anyway? Besides, I always liked that smart-mouthed man. Ha! I won’t leave him out in the cold, if you know what I mean.”

I shook his claw, thankful that he was coming. “What do you suppose we bring with us, Erick?”

“Can you ride a horse?” I asked him.

“No, I’m afraid not.”

“Very well, we will travel on foot then. I say we grab several sacks and stuff them with plenty of food and some health potions, if there are any. He can carry our weapons by hand, and we should also grab some warmer clothing for the trip. These Imperial issued-clothes aren’t going to do the trick I’m afraid,” I said, pointing at the rips and holes in my old shirt and pants.

So we walked to the local General Goods Store and entered the shop. We packed all the bread and veggies we could find, along with some fruit as well. We took some wooden canteens of water, and Teemee grabbed some alcohol as well. Then we found some fur armor to wear, and thankfully there were even some health potions as well, but only five of them.

When everything was done I took one last look at the mine. So many bad memories and experience filled those dark caverns. Hopefully soon all would be explained and then perhaps it would all make sense. But of course that was probably some wishful thinking…..

CHAPTER FOURTEEN


No...What have I done? This blood…this blood…this…

“Wake up, Erick, you’re screaming!”

My body was being violently shaken from someone, and as I heard their voice I recognized the tone, and it was of course Teemee. But who else could it have been anyhow. We were in a cave far from the past and one step closer to an unknown future.

“What was I screaming, Teemee?” I asked while ruffling through my medium length brow hair, trying my hardest to knock the sleepiness from me.

“You were yelling about blood. You kept repeating ‘the blood!’ ‘the blood!’, nothing else. It didn’t have anything to do with your other nightmares, did it?”

I shook my head slowly, for I could feel an extremely painful headache coming on. “No, that dream was different. This one…I fear is forcing my past onto me. It’s best not to talk about it now, though.”

“You mean the reason you’re an inmate in the first place?” Teemee asked.

“Yes…”

“It’s not something you want to talk about, is it?”

“Well, to be honest I was going to spill it all out to this morning because it’s been bugging me right now, bit I can feel a splitting headache coming on, and when that happens I really won’t want to talk at all.”

“So are we to wait out the day for his aching to clear, or shall we travel in silence?”

I had to think about this one for several seconds, because after looking outside it was already high morning time and the sun was shining in the sky. I thought it was still early, but apparently I was wrong.

“I guess we’ll head out now. I thought it w as earlier than it really is.”

“Are you sure about that? I don’t want you to be in a grumpy mood throughout the trip,” Teemee smiled.

“I’ll be fine. Beside, the longer we wait the better chance we have been attacked.”

“Attacked by whom?” Teemee asked curiously.

“The Udyrfrykte. Have you heard of it?”

Teemee dropped his sack to the ground and backed all the way into the opposing wall. “You didn’t tell me we’d be going up against that beast!” He said with great fear.

“I told you the journey was going to be dangerous, Teemee. I suppose I should have told you the specifics, and besides…I don’t even know if we are for sure fighting against it. Madila only mentioned the name, and that it was that creature that caused the skinning.”

“So…this witch is really Madila?” Teemee asked looking very confused. When we had traveled Raven Rock to this cave, which had only been five miles, I had said little to Teemee about what was happening for I was trying to figure it out myself.

“I’ll explain more while we march towards the lake. I’m afraid it will never be clear, but I’ll do my best.”


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“So let me get this straight. We are essentially running around playing games for a witch who is under a curse that was given to her by an angry mage who had given her a test as well?”

“I told you it was confusing, but yes, I believe that’s it. The mage played a game with her, and she playing one with us as well.”

“More like with just you, Erick. If what you say is true Madila stops time just to speak with you alone. Obviously she doesn’t have any plans for me.”

Teemee was probably right in that assumption, though I didn’t want to admit it. I was thankful enough that he was even traveling with me in the first place, and I wasn’t about to make it seem as if he was being given the cold shoulder.

“And what I can’t believe even more is that Madila was the witch the entire time, but then again I guess it makes sense in a way,” the Argonian said.

Oh, yes, it made perfect sense. It’s why I never saw her leave or come anywhere. I always had the funny impression that she just disappeared after work, and it seems that’s what actually happened. Come to think of it, I can’t remember once seeing her at Fort Frostmoth…not one single time! I felt a little stupid now because of the game she played with me and the others, though I have to admit it was very clever.

And now I was playing her game, just as Teemee had already mentioned. And if I won this game it would be a win for all three of us. Teemee and I would get our friend Melvin back, and Madila’s curse would be lifted and she would be free her long-tenured torment.

But what made me wonder more than anything else was how long Teemee was going to keep up with all of this. How long was he really going to stay with me during the conflict? I honestly didn’t know, and even if I don’t want to feel this way, I have a feeling he won’t last long; and there are two scenarios I am talking about.

One, he will die before this is all over. Teemee isn’t the strongest of beings I’ve met in my life, though is a bit talented with a spear, so I will give him that. I’m just worried about what will happen when we face the Udyrfrykte. Judging by Teemee’s reaction, we were in for one hell of a fight. I’m not sure if Teemee will survive this struggle.

And the other scenario I see is, and the most likely one as well, is Teemee chickening out and leaving me to fend for myself. I cannot say I would blame him for doing so, but at the same time I would of course be very angry. Like I already said, this in my opinion has the greatest chance of happening, and that’s why I’ll have to keep a close eye on Teemee throughout the entire journey.

Talking about Teemee dying has gotten me to think about myself as well. I say the Argonian might not make it through this dangerous ordeal, but then again I don’t even know if I will either. It sure helps having this magical ring on my finger. I wish I would have asked more questions about the ring when I spoke with Madila back in Raven Rock.

“How much longer do you think we have to go, Teemee?”

“Beats me. I don’t know the lake’s exact location; only that it is southwest of Thirsk, and I do know where that is. Besides, the lake is rather large from what I’ve heard; it will surely be hard to miss.”

“Yes, I just hope we get this over with as soon as possible. I’m afraid to see what’s on that list. It is likely that we will have to slay the Udyrfrykte, I won’t pretend it’s not, but Madila also mentioned there are two other tasks as well; though she didn’t go into detail about either of them, so they are a mystery to me.”

“I imagine they’ll be challenging. Apparently Madila gets her kicks at watching people suffer,” Teemee offered. I both agreed and disagreed with that however.

“I don’t know. I can’t seem them being too difficult. This is her life we’re talking about after all. If we are to fail, then I doubt she’ll find anyone else to take our place any time soon. She has eliminated in essence the entire Legion presence, you know.”

“You’ve got a point, Erick. I didn’t think of that. Now that you mention it maybe the tasks won’t be that hard. At least I hope not. The slaying of the Udyrfrykte sounds risky and scary enough.”

We traveled for another five hours or so before arriving at a place lit by many torches. Upon nearing the light we realized it was a large lake, and likely that of Lake Fjalding, our destination. It was nighttime by now, and the torches were obviously lit so we would not unknowingly fall into the chilly waters, which surprisingly weren’t frozen.

“I suppose we’re hear,” Teemee said out loud, but with a little bit of fear in his voice. The torches were slightly creepy now that I think about it. It’s definitely not something I was expecting to see.

I walked over to the eastern shores of the lake, and just like Madila said there would be, a letter had been placed to an odd shaped rock. How the paper was staying still through the wind I have no clue, but I picked up the parchment and read it aloud for Teemee to hear as well.

Congratulations, Erick, you have found the letter. Though I am no surprised you found it, I still want to give your due credit. Besides, you’ll need the confidence for your first task. I just hope Teemee is with you as help, because believe me; you’re going to need it. The following is a description of your first test. I see no reason to explain the other two tasks, so I will wait until a later time to inform you of those.

For your first task you will be forced to go toe to claw with the ferocious Udyrfrykte. This should not surprise you however, for I had already mentioned the creature several times back at Raven Rock. Throughout my journeys through this frozen island I have ran into many unique creatures, but all pale in comparison with the Udyrfrykte. But, Lord Vero wishes for the beast to die, for reasons he has not explained. You see, all of these tasks are based on what Lord Vero wants. Also it was he who set free the Udyrfrykte and it is Lord Vero’s fault that all were killed at Raven Rock.

In order to learn the location of this beast’s lair, travel to Thirsk and talk with the Nords. Despite their uncivilized ways, they know more about the Udyrfrykte than anyone else, for they have had many first-hand experiences with the monster.

Good luck, Erick. I hope to see you soon.

“So…to Thirsk we go?” Teemee asked without hesitation once I was finished reading, and had placed the letter into my sack.

“No…I think we should find a cave and rest for the night. I don’t know about you, but waking up the Nords doesn’t sound like an intelligent decision to me.”

“Hah! I’d say you’re correct in that belief, Erick. Besides, my scales are shivering to the bone. I’m getting tired of this damned weather; it gets colder every day!”

This post has been edited by redsrock: Mar 28 2008, 03:24 AM

CHAPTER FIFTEEN


After searching for a suitable cave for the night, I first checked inside to ensure it was safe. For all Teemee and I knew the Udyrfrykte could have been waiting in the shadows, ready to pounce on our soft skin at any moment. But thankfully that wasn’t the case and it turned out the only other living creature was a stray baby Bristleback, untusked of course. We killed it and then waited for its mother, and then killed her too. Needless to say we wouldn’t be going hungry any time soon.

And because the cave was fairly deep for its small space, I decided it was also safe enough to make a fire. I myself wasn’t too cold, but Teemee was literally shivering. I was afraid the lizard was actually going to die, so I made the fire and then gave him a blanket. That seemed to help a little bit, but he still wasn’t acting right.

“Are you gonna be okay, Teemee?”

His head trembled my way and said, “Yeah, I’ll be fine. I’m just not used to this kind of weather, you know. It wasn’t this cold back at the fort. No, no, there we received a warm front coming from Vvardenfell across the Sea of Ghosts. Well, it wasn’t exactly warm as such, but it was better than nothing.”

After that I unrolled several other thick blankets and attempted to fall asleep, but it was of no use. One, it was a little to frigid for me to get comfortable, not to mention that fact that I was lying on the hard stone floor. But two, I was worried about being attacked during our sleep. If figured I’d let Teemee get some shuteye, and then tomorrow night I’d have a turn. But apparently Teemee was having a hard time falling asleep as well.

“Erick…?”

Teemee whispered loudly from across the room.

“Yeah…?”

“Are you awake?”

What kind of question was that?

“Obviously, since I’m talking to you,” I said with a chuckle.

“So you’re not tired?” He asked.

“Not really,” I lied.

“Me neither. I can’t get to sleep; not in this cold and hard floor. What time do you think it is, anyway?”

“To be honest I have no clue, but if I had to take a guess I’d say around three or four I the morning. Why?”

“If it’s that close to sunrise, then I’m not even going to try to fall asleep. What’s the point if I’ll have to get up soon anyhow?”

I grunted a simple ‘okay’, and then I laid my head on the pillow I had brought from Raven Rock. I thought maybe Teemee was going to just let us rest peacefully until it was time to leave, but the friendly lizard had other plans.

“So, are you going to tell what that screaming was about or not?” he asked curiously.

At first I didn’t know what he was talking about, and I frowned at him with confusion. But then I realized he was referring to my little nightmare, and that of my past. Unfortunately I still wasn’t ready to talk about it just yet.

“My head is still aching, I’d like to just rest if you don’t mind,” I lied. In truth I felt just fine. I was tired though, and didn’t feel like talking. However, Teemee was on a roll this morning and wouldn’t shut up. Not that I mind, I guess. At least he wasn’t the smartellic jerk he once was.

“How about you just sit back and let me tell you my story then, eh?”

I rolled over onto my stomach and faced, Teemee, if only to show respect. He was being a nice little fellow, and I didn’t want him to think he was being ignored. And to be honest, I was sort of curious as to what he had to say. I’ve never really spoken with anyone about their past before, not even Melvin.

“Sure, bud. Go right ahead…”

“Well…” Teemee said, and then cleared his throat. I smiled at that. “It all started in Suran. Just like many of my kin I was once a slave. My master wasn’t too cruel, just a little bossy at times. I don’t remember her name anymore, not that it matters. Anyways, one day I finally built up the courage to escape from the cell I was assigned to at night. I don’t exactly remember how I did it, but I think I simply escaped through a crack in the window by busting it with a chair. I’m not sure, nothing is too clear from that night.
“After I escaped through the window I darted out of town and headed northwest. I had heard from a traveler that towns up there didn’t own slaves. I of course didn’t know what to believe, so I figured I’d take a chance. Well, I ended up at a small town by the name of Pelagiad. It was nice enough, and the guards didn’t ask me any questions. I went to the local pub that night, and that’s where I made my mistake.”

I had to hand it to him; Teemee was an exceptionally good story-teller. I had forgotten all about the coldness of the cavern, and my aching sleepiness, and was now fixated with this story of escape.

“At the pub I met an overly-friendly Imperial who called himself, Jed. He was nice enough guy, and he even offered me a few drinks. Well of course I wasn’t about to pass on free drinks, and he bought me a round of Tamika’s Finest. Only that wasn’t it…the rounds kept coming and coming. I must have had about seven before finally he started asking me some questions. I….I don’t remember all of it, some is just a blur you see, but I do remember the last question. ‘Where did you come from?’ And of course by then I was drunk so I boasted loudly, and rather slurred, ‘I escapapidid me slave-owners down in Suran!’
“That was all ‘Jed’ needed to hear, and he immediately slammed my body to the floor and tied me up. The pub was of course worried and curious to what was happening, and the Imperial man told them who I really was…a run-a-away slave. After that he took my outside, loaded me into a cart, and we drove off into the night.”

“What did your owner say when Jed took you back to Suran?” I asked. Teemee just laughed loudly and slammed his claws into his pillow.

“Silly, Erick, I knew you’d ask that! Jed wasn’t working for the government…he was a freelance slaver hunter, one who hunts slaves and then sells them to other owners. This trick is actually illegal, but those who do it know how not to get caught.
“Anyways, he ended up dropping me off at Fort Moonmoth, and there he told the captain he had caught me stealing food from his farm down on the western shores of the Bitter Coast. Of course Jed was a charmer, and spoke with great intelligence, and the Imperial Captain believe every word he said. They paid Jed fifty septims for his trouble, and that was the last I saw of him. And now, here I am with you, Erick. Some story, eh?”

It was some story, and but it still paled in comparison with my own. I wanted to tell Teemee this, but now was not the time. I’d let him have his glory of a well-told tale for now, but sooner or later it’d be my time.

“I’m sorry, Teemee. I can’t believe they sent you here, though? Why not just throw you in the Moonmoth dungeons?”

“I dunno. They kept me in a cell for several days and the next thing I know I’m here. It’s a mystery to me, really. I think I was still drunk when they transported me to this god-forsaken island.”

Teemee then rolled over to the other side and grabbed something from his own personal pack. It was leather, purple, and large. After taking a closer look at what it was, I realized it was a book. This was absolutely spectacular to me because I never would have dreamt that Teemee knew how to read!

“You never told me you could read, Teemee…” I commented, trying not to sound rude.

He sort of huffed at the remark and playfully replied, “Just because I was a slave that doesn’t mean I can’t read or write, Erick. Like I said, my owner wasn’t cruel, just bossy. In fact, she forced reading and writing upon me at a young age. I didn’t like it back then, but I wish I could thank her for it now. I’m a much better person because of it.”

Rather than bug him anymore, I let him continue his reading. I now wished that I had brought a book along as well, for now I was feeling extremely bored. And of course I couldn’t just go for a nightly stroll. I wasn’t in Fort Frostmoth any longer. And right then I remembered someone…..Winona…Melvin’s girlfriend.

My heart immediately sank for her, and of course Melvin as well. I wish I had asked more about her, and that I may know where she lives exactly. I don’t know to think about this, but there’s always a chance that I may not see Melvin again. And how fair is that for Winona? She deserves to know what happened. Then again, I might not even make it out alive. Didn’t Melvin say she lived in Balmora? I don’t know, just that it’s nowhere near my hometown of Caldera. Or is it? Damn I hated how confusing things could get.


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About three hours or so later I poked my head out of the cave and noticed the sun was already up. The cave was obviously deeper than I had originally thought because without the fire I had made it was pretty much pitch dark. So we gathered our things and headed out into the cold, where it was snowing heavily. I shouldn’t be surprised, for I had heard many stories about the massive blizzards this side of the island received. Now I was experiencing them first hand.

We walked for nearly fifteen minutes until admitting neither of us had a clue where we were going. Teemee said he was following, and I said I was following him. All in all things weren’t going too well, and I was about to suggest that we try and go back to the cave and wait for the snow to end. But then a spear landed just inches from my foot, and immediately I was tackled from behind. I tried to shout out loud but then I was hit in the back of the head by something hard.

I don’t remember much after that, only being rolled over onto my back and coming face to face with someone with an overgrown beard.

Any comments at all?