The Hero in Disguise, Chapter 4 Options

[Taillus]

Ok ladies and gentlemen, I feel bad for neglecting this story for any stretch of time so I have decided to give you all a fair chunk of the chapter to make me feel better. It is a large read but I hope it will be worth your time. Tell me what you think

My shaking hands felt around me for my lost blade. I watched as Taillus drew in deep breaths obviously glad that he finally tracked me down. I still had no clue how I was going to even scratch his armor but I knew I was going to have to hurt him somehow. I could feel the blood rushing from my limbs and face, making my body cold as ice even in the oftentimes overwhelming heat of Oblivion.

“There will be no talking…No speech and no bragging. I will kill you after torturing you longer than you can stand plain and simple.” Taillus growls as he watches me on my knees not even two feet away.

What troubled me the most is that he seemed to be free of the mocking voice of Molag Bal inside his head. If this was so, then he would be free from interruption allowing him to fully focus on ripping me to shreds. The very thought of engaging him in battle made my skin crawl. Every wound he caused, every injury dealt at his hands began to pain once again as I slowly climbed to my feet. I grabbed my katana and held it tight, hoping my fear wouldn’t cause me to drop it again and I looked squarely into his blood red eyes.

I watch as he unbuckles his cuirass as well as unlatching a pauldron and sleeve of his armor. The whole sleeve of his Daedric armor falls to the floor beside him, rattling between us. I remembered that he preferred using only half of his armor because it shows his cockiness and allows him to move better. My theory proved correct when the whole cuirass fell off his chest before Taillus cracks his neck in anticipation.

Just as I was about to launch a surprise attack, Taillus attempted the same. He lunged forward, catching me totally unawares and sending me sprawling backwards with a speedy backhand to my face. His speed was unbelievable and his strength was exactly as I remembered if not even greater. Just as I stopped rolling from his introductory attack, I watched with my head spinning as he leapt in the air, hoping to crack my skull more than likely.

I was barely able to roll away and I gasped in horror as his armored gauntlet plowed through the rough black tiles of the floor splintering the thick rock like tiles in an explosion of debris. Thick rock dust clouded the both of us after the attack allowing me to quickly scramble back to my feet once again but without even missing a beat, I watched as the silhouette of Taillus broke free a large piece of the floor and hurled it like a jagged Frisbee on a direct course for my neck.

I ducked as quick as I could and felt the sting of the rock tearing through my armor as it peeled away the plating that covered my back but that was the least of my worries as Taillus burst through the cloud of dust and kicked at my head as I was dodging the floor piece. I managed to raise an arm in defense but it hardly mattered. I could feel the bone breaking in my forearm before Taillus picked me up by my neck and tossed me at the wall behind me.

This was impossible. How am I even going to survive this, let alone defeat this demon. Taillus was finely tuned and bent on my destruction…but maybe not as finely tuned as I had originally thought. I watched after coming to my senses as he approached me but quickly brought his hand to his mouth before coughing violently. I could see blood trickling from his fingers as the coughing continued.

Taillus was looking really sick, and as underhanded as it was, I thought that catching him while in this state might be my only chance. My mind scrambled for a spell that would come in handy but spells have been incredibly hard to conjure ever since Taillus and I switched bodies. I was going to have to learn to come out of this rut if I ever wish to see the light of day in Cyrodiil again.

I managed to remember a lightening spell that could potentially put him down for the count. It was a spell I used to light up Nord Barbarians back in Northern Vvardenfel. I thought for a second as I ran towards Taillus who was still coughing badly. I smiled victoriously as my hands lit up blue with magicka before releasing large tendrils of electric energy that wrapped around Taillus making him convulse in pain.

It was still not enough as I was met with a blast of his own magicka in retaliation. Blood trickled down the side of his mouth as he practically roared while a large wave of fire energy screamed in my direction. Without even thinking, I closed my eyes remembering a fire protection spell and held out my hands to meet the spell wincing as it rolled around my body. I could feel heat but my protection spell must have worked because the wall behind me was charred badly. I should have been baked where I stood.

I must say that Taillus brings out the best in me. Fighting literally for ones life would probably bring out the best in anyone but it is as true as it gets. Fighting him was forcing me to remember the spells I was unable to conjure otherwise and all of this quick thinking and instinctive moves revived my knowledge, revived my entire library of spells I worked so hard to memorize!

Taillus quickly ran to the mangled Daedroth skeleton and pulled free the daedric broadsword that he obviously used a time ago to dismiss the previous keeper of the Sigil Stone. He uttered something mildly witty along the lines of needing the weapon back if the ill-fated Daedroth didn’t mind and I sprinted forward in hopes to catch him flatfooted as he was releasing the blade.

I was met with a harsh elbow to the collar bone stopping me in my tracks and almost bringing me to my knees in pain while also allowing him the few seconds he needed to release his broadsword. I had to think of how easy this would be if it wasn’t for Taillus. A Daedroth as a Sigil Stone bodyguard would have only been a minor setback, this…this was catastrophic! I managed to sidestep and dodge the swift attacks from Taillus noting that he was obviously still shaken from his recent coughing fit. I had to wonder what was happening in that body of his but had little time to piece anything together as I was quickly beaten with the flat of the broadsword as punishment for not keeping my mind on the fight.

My broken arm was really keeping me out of the game and I was sure he broke something other than my cuirass with his last attack as well. I was in danger of losing my life but I knew it wasn’t going to be quick just as he promised. I was certain that my body was going to give up soon under the sheer power that is Taillus but just as he was about to take another swing, the doors that I had only minutes before used to gain entry to this room flew open revealing my Nord friend.

“Let my friend be you filthy Daedric Demon!” The Nord shouts as he points his blade in our direction. I rolled my eyes as Taillus turned on his heels to meet the source of the comment. A smile creeps across his face before he burst into hysterical laughter. I had to say that I couldn’t blame him. The Nord was hardy and tough but I am sure Taillus at ten years of age could have had him begging for mercy.

“Terribly sorry friend. I apologize sincerely for pummeling your friend. Let me make it up to you both by giving up.” Taillus laughs as he walks toward the Nord. The leader of the Bruma army quickly realized the caliber of my tormentor as a black miasma crept around Taillus’ body revealing a brewing fear attack. Taillus was going to scare the Nord to death! I had to end this quickly. I shouted to the Nord, ordering him to throw his amulet in my direction. I quickly grabbed a jagged, broken rib from the Daedroth skeleton and sprinted to catch the airborne amulet.

The Nord hauled off his amulet and tossed it over Taillus’ head. I readied a spell as I ran at them and cast it as soon as he turned around to catch the soaring piece of jewelry. Taillus was surprised with a quick and intense light magic that blinded him, He cried out in pain before covering his eyes in an attempt to shield himself from the burning light that robbed him of his sight giving me just enough time to catch the amulet, whip it around my neck and let it charge.

Taillus frantically swung at me but without knowing where I was, he was easy to avoid, Just as the light spell wore off allowing Taillus to see, the familiar red of the strength fortification from the amulet circled my body. With not even a second to spare, I jumped, pulled back my usable arm that was armed with the broken bone of the Daedroth and buried it deeply into Taillus’ right shoulder.

The force of the action along with the fortification of my strength made the bone sink deeply into his non armored skin. Taillus screamed in agony as more blood trickled out of his mouth. I decided to take advantage of the still active enchantment by planting a few good punches at his abdomen and to my amazement, the mighty Taillus went down for the count.

My arm was still broken, and paining badly. Plus I was certain that my ribs have suffered as well as my shoulder blades and back. Taillus had definitely done a number on me but I was still standing and he was not. It was a better ending than I could have ever wished for and now it was time for me to grab that Sigil Stone and get out of here. The Nord and I both went up the winding catwalk and stood before the stone. It was finally over and was time to leave this place.

“Who was that beast of a man my friend?” The Nord asks shakily as we crested the top of the catwalk to meet the waiting Sigil Stone, our way out of this nightmare. I told him vaguely that he was an old “Friend” who was more dangerous than any other living mortal man. The Nord questions him being mortal and with good reason, I was barely sure he was still human myself.

I motioned for the Nord to grab the Sigil Stone while I drowned myself in healing magics. It was unlike me but unless one feels the pain caused by Taillus then I would suggest not judging. I also felt that the Nord deserved to finish closing this gate considering him even making it here was astonishing I gave him the honor and he nodded before quickly snatching the stone from its perch obviously as eager to escape this place as myself.

[Taillus]

I wanted to see to the end of this chapter before the day's end because my baby tabby kitten Bailey is sick so I will have to take her to the Vet I may not get a chance to updat till the new week so I thought I would post this for you all right now. I have already composed the complete fifth chapter and am well on my way through chapter six. By any luck I will be into chapter seven or eight by midweek but you will have to wait as I catch up with myself. Here is the end of Chapter Four. Enjoy!

PS. It is a big update so be prepared. I suggest a tall drink.



Almost half a day later I leap off my horse landing on the snowy mountainous region that Frostcraig Spire is located. With the fierce, biting winds and a treacherous, blowing snow squall it would make my search for the tower next to impossible if one wasn’t exactly sure where they were going. Luckily Hannial was dead on with his mark and it led me just at the front steps to the Spire. My paint horse waited patiently behind and I gave him a good pat on the mane for sticking with me like a good friend. I promised him I would be back shortly and took a deep breath of cold, northern air before pushing the large, circular door open leading me inside.

After wiping the semi-melted snow from my eyes I was treated to an amazing sight. In Frostcraig’s main lobby was a wide, round pool of frozen water with an ill-fated frost Antronach trapped beneath the surface. Its hand was the only thing above the ice and in its opened palm rested a thick red book opened to just about the middle. Written in familiar handwriting was “Guest – Xander Moorcroft, questions about a madman on the loose.” It almost knocked me off my feet and what was the most odd is that I was certain it was my handwriting.

Standing in the entryway to the next room was a seemingly young dunmer woman with dark grey-blue skin that was as fair and flawless as a young girl, with deep red hair that was kept neatly in a fancy ponytail complimented by an elegant crimson and gold robe with a large hood that rested neatly upon her shoulders.

“That always baffles my visitors. Please excuse my antics Xander, you see I do not get many visitors here.” The dunmer woman almost whispers in a tranquil voice. I chuckle lightly, still shaken by such an act and follow after Aeriandala invites me deeper into her breathtaking home.

“Welcome Xander, to Frostcraig Spire. I can tell your time is precious so I will have to give you the grand tour at a later time. I feel that you are interested and thus you are quite welcome back here if you so happen to survive your next encounter with Taillus.” She states before stopping and looking over her shoulder.

Before I even have a chance to reply, she explains her ability to “know” and “see” many things but there are still some things, some events that remain open to change depending on how a person acts and reacts. I was eager to listen to everything this woman had to say and I could tell I was in for quite a visit.

“Xander, I have been following the man you know as Taillus ever since he had arrived in our great Province. I know that you have done everything you can to stop him but I am afraid he is far too powerful for you to handle alone. He has conquered the souls of countless men and continues to do so even here. By my count he is well into his twenties. His collection of souls will continue and as you know with every one he adds, he gathers exponentially more power.” She confirms with a look of seriousness appropriate for the subject.

“I also know something that is not of common knowledge. Taillus is now free from the constant, tormenting threats and rants from his former Master Molag Bal. Sources tell me that Molag has found a new pet and has been trying to siphon the life out of Taillus to use on his new project. This is why you observed him in a sickly state. Do not be fooled however because Molag Bal has now severed his ties completely with Taillus and now leaves Taillus free to gather his own power. This may mean that he now stands more powerful then he has ever been.”

Great! This is wonderful news. Not only is Taillus free to think for himself now, he may be more powerful than ever!? Is that even remotely possible? I had to learn more and even if I had to burn the midnight oil talking and asking questions I was sure that knowledge may just be my best weapon at this point. The more I knew my opponent, the more prepared I will be and that is the fundamentals of war.

Aeriandala also went on to say that she was aware of the rut I was in and that my magicka problems would be solved before I left the spire she would be sure of it and she also had a gift for me but before all of that, I needed to know more.

“I cannot see too far into the future, again like I said, some events are free to be changed by those involved and while fate does play some part in this, I believe you are intelligent and powerful enough to write your own history. Taillus is located far underground in a place I know only as Vindasel. He has been there for days now and hasn’t left since. Now I must warn you of two things Xander. One is that I have felt multiple auras of intense energy, more than ten in total with two being stronger by far than the others, now there is only one energy left. Taillus is still there so there must be some casualties.” She warns.

“Secondly my dear Xander is while I cannot see the future, I do foresee a terrible chain of events taking place after you leave here. I cannot say what exactly will happen but please be careful. I can see the fires of truth and hope burning in your eyes, you are a good soul Xander and no matter what happens next, you will be treated highly in what life comes after this, now please, I have a gift for you.” Aeriandala says as she gets to her feet and walks over to a large wooden shelf.

She opens a box that is silver and gold in color and sparkles with magicka as if what it contains is overflowing with magical energies. Aeriandala returns with two items, an ebony ring that shimmers with power as well as a large ebony and silver amulet which she places in my hands.

“The ring, you must put on first and make sure it is hidden beneath your gauntlet. I then want you to put the amulet over your neck and leave it free to be seen by the world. This is key to the item’s strength. Now, I cannot tell you what the items do but remember this. The ring must be the last of the two items you take off, and the first to put back on. You will reap the benefits of these items in due time. I will now let you leave, time is not on our side and I wish you all the luck one can wish.” And with that, she kisses my cheek, releasing a spell upon me making me feel like I could lift the entire Imperial City over my head. I felt like a new man!

The spell continued to do wonders on my body long after I left the Spire. I could feel magicka welling up inside me, releasing spells from my locked mind. I was finally myself again and was ready to take on Taillus no matter how strong he is!

Another full day of traveling and I was brought back into the Imperial City. I was only hours from my final destination and before I walked head first into potentially the fiercest battle I will ever see, I had one matter of business to attend to just in case I did happen to survive. A visit to the Black Horse Courier was on the agenda where I recruited the services of a young, able bodied Khajiit courier. A hefty tip would ensure he made his mark well ahead of schedule and I gave him a letter sealed with blue wax for his target.

I watched as he almost lit the cobblestone street ablaze as he sprinted out of sight. I smiled half in anticipation, half in nervousness over what will come. I decided a final meal was in order as I walked to the feed bag for a quick solution to a growling stomach. Taillus was going to have to wait just a minute or two more….