Printable Version of Topic

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 3 2006, 10:29 PM

Luna Lioria is a story written from the perspective of a rebellious, and somewhat foolish, young Imperial girl named Luna who decides that she can no longer live with her "controlling" parents, and decides to run off on her own. To where, she doesn't know, and reality ultimately takes her by surprise. This first chapter encompasses her time spent in and around the Imperial City.

Morndas, 6th of Evening Star, Late Evening


I looked about me, the soft glow of the candle on the bedside table comforting as my gaze drifted towards the window, the panes of glass seemed barely able to hold out against the chilling winds that struck it so cruelly.

Glad I'm not a window.

I shook my head, what a silly thought, my exhaustion was getting the better of me and I felt as if I was only vaguely aware of my surroundings.

Not good, not good.

I had to stay awake, but I knew that I couldn't resist the tempting lure of a good nights sleep, and I would eventually have to give up the struggle, the enemy so relentless.

Why not leave in the morning?

My mother and father would never let me leave, let me go. I had to strike out when they were deep in their dreams. To them I was yet a child, but I knew myself to be different. I was fifteen, no longer a child, but not yet an adult. I was in between, the best stage of life for learning and experience.

I picked up my small bag containing some food, and a quill and paper, which I had taken from my mother’s desk. She would not mind I knew, because she would be nearly dead with worry over where I had gone. I felt guilty for this, but I couldn't help but wonder what awaited me as I stepped out the door into the slushy streets of Cyrodiil. Sleep could wait out the night.

The lantern I held in one hand lit the darkness that descended upon me, and it let me see my way around the familiar city.

The great houses, built solid and high, surrounded me, but provided little comfort. I could hardly see them anyway, night had set hours ago.

I had left my parents softly snoring in their bed, as I strode into a new era for myself, an era in my life of adventure. This era, I hoped, would be filled with mystifying times and tribulations for me to explore. Yet I felt wary as well, of what exactly I did not know, but I suppose it was the whole idea of leaving the Imperial Province, and journeying to a foreign land.

The night air was crisp and dry, I stood for a moment just a block or so by my judgment from my home. Gazing excitedly about me, I pondered deeply.

What if I am never to come back?

Brushing the ominous thought aside, I took a step further into the dark.

My hand took the brunt of a brick building and the lantern fell to the ground breaking open upon the icy street as the light I had been so grateful to have faded. I was thrust into the dark city of Cyrodiil, alone and without guidance. This was it, I knew, this was adventure, or at least the start of one. My stomach lurched, I was fearful, for all I had learned, all the knowledge I had gathered to this point, could not prepare me for survival on my own without others. I had no one now, I was really truly alone. The familiarity of the city drifted, and I found that I no longer knew what I thought I had.

Am I alone?

I froze, realizing that there may yet be someone who would see to it that I was not alone, and for the first time as well, I hoped to the gods that I was. The spell of fear I felt quickly left me, in a mere matter of seconds, and I regained most of the confident mental stability I had been overtaken by just a minute ago. The deepening fear had only subsided temporarily, I recognized, and it lingered with me in the back of my mind. It was the kind of fear someone got when they were about to get caught doing something they shouldn't be doing.

Without thinking, and hardly a second passed, my hand flew to my belt and my sword slashed through the air. Someone grabbed my hand, placing their own hand over my mouth. My sword however, contacted someone. I heard a shout of pain, and the collapse of a body. My hand was wet, but from what I could not see in the dark, though I guessed it to be blood.

My heart pounded as I dashed through the streets, desperate to find refuge and hide myself from the terrors that wandered here in the Imperial city.

I was barely aware of myself as I ran, panic had taken over. My sword still swung loosely from my hand as I slowed myself. I contemplated turning around and finding my way home, but I couldn't, I couldn't make myself now.

Eventually I managed to come to a complete halt, but now I was in a foreign part of the city. I had never wandered here before, and I wish I hadn't now.

There was nobody out, but I still felt my skin crawl as a shiver ran from my head to my toes. I stood there trembling, my eyes darting wildly back and forth.

A hand landed on my shoulder.

I spun around and kicked, ferociously attacking my stalker.

"Hold, hold!"

I stopped suddenly as the man kneeled, holding a hand to his stomach, his face a grimace.

"Quite a kick you've got there, is that how you greet everyone?"

I frowned, nearly sick "Do you often sneak up on young girls at night?" I asked accusingly, my hand resting on the hilt of my sword.

"Calm down miss, I didn't mean you any harm." The man looked up and grinned maliciously, I noticed, though his face was hardly visible, "You can stop shaking."

I took a few steps back.

The man's smile disappeared, "Now hold on a second, you wait right there!"

I turned in a hurry, and dashed off, only to get several feet before backing up again, as a man passed out of the shadows.

"You heard him," the strange man said, he held a sword in hand, "Stay right there."

I unsheathed my sword and lunged, luckily taking the stranger by surprise. The man didn't have time to dodge as the blade passed through him. I drew it out, and the body collapsed to the ground. Once again I found myself scurrying through the city.

It was sick; I knew what they would do to a young lady such as me, the pervasive nature of the drunks out this time of night.

I was freezing; the snow was coming down fast, wetting my clothes.

I must find somewhere to wait out the night.

Where?

I collapsed on the street, the ice and slush viciously biting at me as I pulled my knees to me and placed my head on them, noticeably shaking and shivering as my breath came in short gasps.

What am I, a child? Giving up so easily.

Yes, a child .

The world seemed so cold, both literally and metaphorically, and I had to struggle to hold my tears back.

The grim cruelty of reality took me, and I can't recall when or even how I managed to drift off into sleep as the freezing cold continued to assault me.

Posted by: minque Jan 3 2006, 10:36 PM

Ohhh......nice gamer!....very well and suggestive written...Quite an adventurous night for young Luna, let´s hope she´ll feel better in the morning...

Keep it up, ya hear?

Posted by: Kiln Jan 4 2006, 12:21 AM

Very interesting story Gamer, I like the way reality takes its toll on the character so quickly as she realises that this whole thing won't be so easy. Interesting encounter with the drunks as well.

Very well executed, keep up the good work.

Posted by: Dantrag Jan 4 2006, 01:04 AM

Is this over, or is it going to be continued?

Great job, I like the descriptive writing and choice of words.

Posted by: Disasterpiece449 Jan 4 2006, 09:31 PM

Very, very well done. Great start, you get into the sotry right away. I really like how you express her thoughts so much. Helps you get closer to the character. Keep it up!

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 6 2006, 01:30 AM

To have so much "reality" hit her in one night is pretty scary. Perhaps she should have waited until right before her parents woke up? Anyway, a great start to the story. I am looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 8 2006, 02:45 AM

Tirdas, 7th of Evening Star, Early Morning

When I awoke my fingers where numb, and it was still dark, but light was playing at the sky, it was very early Morning.

For some strange reason I had not shifted position in the snow, still kneeling with my hands pressed into the mixture of freezing ice and water that had collected on the street.

Someone was standing over me, and, as I had before, I attempted to act quickly, but my body was stiff, and as I made to throw my hand to the hilt of my sword I fell over sideways.

It wasn't a person at all, I then saw from the corner of my eye, but a dog.

It was small, visibly undernourished, and obviously curious. Its matted golden fur was stained with blood and dirt.

Reaching out hesitantly, I placed one hand on its head, hoping it would not bite.

Instead it moved its head back and forth under my head-!

I drew my hand back quickly, the dog was apparently a nest for fleas. Rising shakily to my feet, I began to stumble awkwardly away from it.

I heard, behind me, the pad of small paws on the pavement, and I turned my head slowly and saw in the dim morning light that the pup had chosen to follow me.

I did my best to scold it, shaking my finger and saying firmly "Go away," but there was something about it that made me nearly melt with sympathy.

"Go away," I said weakly, sneezing, and stumbling against a house. I watched it for several seconds, and during that time it sat still, so I turned and began to walk away . . . .

The darn doggie followed.

Frustrated I spun around, and stomped my foot angrily. "No, go away now!"

The dog whimpered and walked up to me, rubbing its head against my leg.

I sighed and knelt down, look the dog in the eye.

"Listen," I said, knowing this sounded silly.

"I can't let you follow me, I don't even know where I'm going."

To my great surprise, I though I saw the dog's head nod in understanding. Standing up and stepping back, I peered at it, bewildered.

Then it tore off through the streets, passing me, and I'm glad that I had the nerve to follow it.

It lead me out of the city, and I tore my gaze away from it for one second to watch the majestic buildings shrinking behind me.

Then it stopped . . .outside a stable? The stable was strangely abandoned, and stood alone, no cottage accompanied it.

I pushed open the stable door and the dog followed me, right at my heels.

"What is it?" I asked the dog, before smacking my hand against my forehead.

Why am I talking to an animal?

The dog turned its head to look up at me, as if in answer to my question.

Then it took the lead, leading me past a few pens until I came to one that appeared to be inhabited, but it wasn't.

There were books, and a candle, as well as a mat to sleep on. On a small crate beside the mat there was some strange meat, foreign but at least it looked edible.

I glanced down one last time at the dog, before collapsing onto the mat and taking the piece of meat in my hands, etiquitte forgotten.

"Here you go," I said as I handed some of the meat to the dog, who took it in his mouth.

It never did occur to me in the few minutes that I had already spent there, that someone had to live here.

Until the stable door that I had left open closed.

I rose to my feet, and began to exit the wooden pen, which was rather high, only to be stopped. I was looking directly into someones eyes, and I began to shake.

Backing up, I noticed that the figure had a sword in hand.

"I'm sorry," I said hurriedly trying to find some way to escape, "I-I had no idea anyone lived here."

Stepping out of the shadows of the stables infrastructure, the figure spoke.

"Thats all right," he said softly.

His eyes were an alluring brown, and I looked him over, my fear easing.

Perhaps he's friendly . .

"Forgive me," he said with a smile, lowering his weapon before dropping it on the ground, "I wasn't expecting a visitor." He glanced apprehensively at the dog, then he walked over and picked it up, muttering to it.

"So its your dog then? What's its name?" I asked.

He glanced back at me, "I haven't given it one, I think it prefers to be free of any label.

"What's your name then?" I asked.

He averted his gaze, then answered me, and I had to strain my hearing to understand him.

"I don't know."

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 9 2006, 09:12 PM

Why is it that all the writers on this forum like to leave us in agonizing suspense? To write so well and leave us in suspense can be hard to bear.

In all seriousness, definitely a great installment. I'm very curious to learn more about the man and his dog, who I suspect is probably more than just a dog.

Posted by: Florodine of Hlaalu Jan 10 2006, 01:06 AM

Wow this is a must-read, i enjoyed the story a lot. And yes please don't keep us waiting for too long... Please

Posted by: Kiln Jan 11 2006, 01:40 AM

Very nice addition Gamer, the strong point of this story seems to be the mystery and uncertainty the character is presented with and you keep the story moving as well as interesting.

Goodjob!

Posted by: Dantrag Jan 11 2006, 02:56 AM

Nice. not much to say, other than "Who is this nameless guy!?!?!"

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 11 2006, 10:59 PM

I cocked an eyebrow, “You mean you’re nameless?” I then folded my arms, and waited for a reply.

“Practically,” he said, looking taken aback at my sudden curiosity.

“Haven’t you ever thought of something you’d want to call yourself,” I asked him, lowering my eyebrow and glancing around once again.

He sat down beside the crate and lifted its lid, reaching inside and withdrawing a flask. “For what reason should I? Names are just labels given by others so they can recognize a person, I personally have no need for one.”

He gestured to the dog, “He calls me ARF!” The young man said loudly, gesticulating as he imitated the bark of the dog. “You can call me that as well, if you prefer.” Then, without any further statements, he raised the flask to his lips and drank.

I watched him inquisitively as he drank, unsure of whether that was meant as a joke. Then, after a few fleeting moments passed, I knelt and patted the dog on the head. “I’ll just call you Windswept,” I said softly, smiling at it.

Suddenly the man was on his feet, and I was sprawled back on the ground, using my arms to support myself as I stared, absolutely terrified, up at him.

“You leave him alone!” He hollered at me, his once gentle face was now one of contorted rage. “If he doesn’t want a name then he doesn’t have to have one!”

He’s completely insane!

“It’s just-just a dog,” I stammered out, crawling back and using the wall of the pen as support as I stood.

He took me by the wrist, and I reached for my sword with my other hand, but before I could draw it, he had twisted me around and now held me by my arms. Unable to reach my weapon, I just stumbled in the direction he pushed me.

He vehemently kicked open the stables doors and pushed me out; I immediately whipped around to face him and drew my sword.

“You filthy maggot!” I screeched, surprised at my own fury. “It’s just a damned dog!” I kicked the ground in frustration and sheathed my sword, all the while he watched me quietly.

I couldn’t stand it, was he purposely being pigheaded? I took a few quick steps towards him and slapped him across the face, my hand leaving behind a red tinted imprint.

Before I could even react he grabbed hold of my arms, but not forcefully this time, and instead of looking at me he stared into an empty space the seemed to occupy the area between us.

“It’s not just a dog.” He said, and let my arms drop to hang at my side. “He’s the only companion I have.” He turned around, now seemingly gloomy, and walked back into the stable, I heard his footsteps fade as he reached the end pen where he had set up his own little home, where he lived his own little life.

I stood there for minutes, listening to myself breath as I attempted to grasp and fully understand him. Then I understood.

Do I want to end up as he is? Alone?

I shook my head; he was more likely an abandoned individual, not a runaway. Taking a deep breath, and gathering my courage and compassion, I stepped in after him.

Posted by: Kiln Jan 11 2006, 11:22 PM

Very nice piece Gamer, interesting way in which the man reacts to the thought of the dog being named.

Keep up the good work mate!

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 12 2006, 12:11 AM

A very intriguing installment. I will admit that the strength of the man's reaction caught me by surprise. I'm looking forward to finding out more about the man so that I can better understand his motivation.

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 13 2006, 11:09 PM

He was sitting muttering to the dog when I tiptoed into the pen, and I took a seat opposite of him. He finished talking to the dog and patted it on the head as I had, then he looked back up at me.

“I’ve just had a short conversation with him,”

Oh great, he is insane.

“And he says that its okay if you call him Windswept. I-I guess I wouldn’t mind if you called him it either . . . “

He seemed busy with his eyes, looking everywhere but directly at my own eyes.

“Okay,” I said, slightly bothered by the lack of conversation. “I was wondering-“

He nodded, still avoiding my gaze, “You can take whatever you need, and then leave if you like.”

I frowned, “That wasn’t what I-“ I paused and sighed, “I was wondering if you wanted to come with me, wherever I’m going.”

His head jerked up, now staring me straight in the face. “Do you mean it?”

I nodded, “Think before you go though, whether or not you want to leave your-er . . .home.”

I heard him snigger, “Heck, if you’re not tired we can leave now, I mean, not to rush you or anything.”

I smiled feebly, “Well, I am rather tired . . .how ‘bout a few hours, you can collect what you want to take and we can go then.”

“All right.”

I closed me eyes and leaned back onto the mat that lie on the left side of the pen, and fell asleep in a matter of seconds.


Tirdas, 7th of Evening Star, Afternoon


When I awoke nameless was rustling through a sack that he had packed while I slept, in it he had managed to place a Journal, a few meals worth of food, and whatever coinage he managed to scrape up.

He saw me raise my head and he mumbled something.

“What?” I asked.

“I’m sorry.”

Surprised, I sat up. “For what?”

He looked embarrassed by now, “I- should’ve controlled my temper, you know . . .”

I nodded in concurrence, “And I forgive you, but I think we should get a move on now.”

He reached out a hand, which I grasped, drowsy after my nap. When I stood he let go quickly, and called his dog, which, though I had not noticed, had chosen to rest next to me on the mat.

“C’mon Windswept,” he said with a quick glance at me.

So, the afternoon after I had struck out from Cyrodiil, I was finally going to get somewhere. Now, we had to catch a ship to get to the mainland, from which we were separated.

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 13 2006, 11:39 PM

Well, it's good to see that the two of them have made up. I am a little confused why he so quickly agreed to go along with her, but I do hope we'll find out. It's cool that the dog agreed to his new name; somehow having a name makes things feel more real.

Posted by: Dantrag Jan 13 2006, 11:43 PM

Good installment.

Maybe he was so quick to come along because living in a barn is boring?

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 21 2006, 02:17 AM

Their trek brought them to a port, where the leader of the small expedition, Luna, decided they should rest the night at an inn, and set sail for the mainland of the Imperial Province the next morning.


Tirdas, 7th of Evening Star, Late Evening

We moved sluggishly, that is, Windswept, Nameless (I had made finding him a name a resolution, whether he wanted one or not), and I: Luna. It had been but six hours since we began our march, and we found ourselves now comfortably seated in a cozily small inn, with a fire burning in the fireplace, and food before us. Outside the winter gale wrecked havoc upon the homeless and the drunk, neither of which I had much sympathy for. Inside, I was safe from the horrors of late Imperial Winter, which I had experienced all too strongly not so long ago.

Nameless returned from the bar, where he had negotiated with the Keeper, and he looked happy. Knowing him for the short time I had, I wasn’t sure whether his smile meant success or optimistic failure, hopefully not the latter.

“Victory,” he said merrily, leaning forward and placing his head on his arms, which were resting on the table. His closeness unnerved me, and I leaned back away from the table. Noticing my discomfort, he too sat straight.

“We have a room?” I asked.

“I said victory didn’t I,” he reached a hand down to pat Windswept, but his hand touched the flooring of the inn. Embarrassed, and realizing that Windswept had cuddled up against my feet, he quickly pulled his arm back up. I couldn’t resist a smile, but his look of disappointment quickly erased it from my face.

“You have a family?” he asked, hesitant it seemed, at bringing up a personal conversation.

“Of course I do.”

I opened my mouth too quickly, recognizing soon after that he was envious of me for it. It was as if I was the only one in the world with a family, and he had the right to be spiteful.

“You didn’t have to say it like that.” He stammered, pushing his chair back from the table and turning away.

“Don’t get like that.” I commanded, standing up (which ultimately disturbed Windswept from his sleep, and the dog now trotted off to take a position over by the fireplace) then walking over to him.

“Don’t get like what?” he asked defiantly, failing to hide his grief when I looked into his eyes. I could tell he was blinking back tears.

Anxious at the prospect of gaining the attention of those I didn’t know, I pulled him up so he stood facing me. I then proceeded to whisper to him.

“This is neither the right place nor time for tears, wipe them away now and be over it. I don’t know you very well, but maybe later in a more private environment you can tell me about yourself, and what troubles you.”

He did as I instructed, and took his seat again as he wiped his tears away, but the blissful atmosphere our good luck held had all but disappeared into oblivion during his few brief moments of sorrow. I was unsure of whether taking my seat and allowing another conversation to pick up was such a good idea, but fearing for his sentiment, which seemed dangerously negative at the moment, I took it upon myself to sit back down.

“I’m rather sleepy; I fancy a nice nights rest might be nice for the both of us. Shouldn’t stay up to late, or you won’t be alert in the morning.”

He nodded approvingly, and I relaxed. “I’ll try my best,” he said.

What is the matter with him?

“I’m going to turn in now,” I stated, standing up as he handed me a scroll that had our room number scrawled out upon it. “Don’t wait to long,” I said as I yawned and stretched.

“Good night Luna.”

“Good night, erm-“ I felt my face redden as I remembered that he didn’t have a name.

To my surprise he chuckled, and I glanced down at him, “Well,” I told him, “Don’t forget about Windswept.”

Then I strode up the stairwell and to our room.

Posted by: Dantrag Jan 23 2006, 04:40 PM

Nice update. Mr. Nameless' moodswings are pretty unnerving...

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 24 2006, 07:15 PM

It sounds like Nameless is concealing a great depth of so-far nameless emotions. His scars must run deep, and his pain must be close to the surface, for him to be so easily affected by the events around him. It sounds like Luna is on the right track, though, and I'm looking forward to watching her help Nameless face his demons.

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 28 2006, 02:38 AM

The next morning, when I awoke, dressed and preceded downstairs I found Nameless already busy preparing to leave. Curious as to what form of payment the Innkeeper expected, I inquired.

Nameless turned around and answered nonchalantly, “It's all taken care of, don’t worry about it, Luna.”

Not wanting to disturb the peaceful ambiance of the morning, after what transpired last night, I did not proceed to pry a detailed answer from him. Yet I was worried over the fact that he might be lying, and we may run off without paying for our room, but I tried to forget it.

I thanked the innkeeper for the fine service and left, with Windswept at my heels and Nameless trailing behind. It didn’t take us but a quarter hour to reach the dock where we would look for a shipmaster willing to take us to the mainland from which the City of Cyrodiil was separated, for a reasonably low fee.

We found one quickly in the bustling port, where I suspected there was always someone looking for work. Nameless requested to be the negotiator, but I turned down his offer. Not wanting to dishearten him, for I knew he wanted to be of use to the expedition, I offered to let him try if I could not strike an acceptable deal.

I was in luck; the shipmaster was desperate and willing to take us for only a few Septims. Nameless looked a bit disappointed, but I was glad that that I was sure of what was transpiring.

The ship was not to leave until evening, so Nameless and I walked aboard it and looked at the cabin offered. The travel would only last several hours, but I didn’t want to travel on a third rate vessel.

When we set sail that evening, Nameless, Windswept and I gathered in the small cabin and sat without much to do. I tried to strike up a conversation, but failed miserably. Something was bothering Nameless, and I needed him to get over it quick, or he’d only be a burden. Standing up, I shuffled out onto the deck after patting the sleeping Windswept on the head. I made sure to close the cabin door behind me.

I stood at the railing, looking out over the water as we passed on by. Within seconds, as I guessed, I heard the cabin door open and close and the patter of feet on the deck. Nameless was by my side in a few moments, and as I was, he looked out over the water.

“Where are we going Luna?”

The question hit me off guard. I struggled to find an answer, but to no avail.

“I don’t know.”

Nameless sighed, and I heard in the still of the night the tapping of his fingers against the wooden railing.

“I left my home behind, for a silly reason, some might call it. I just wanted to experience everything I could before age took me and made me an adult, before the dull of a daily routine entered my life.” My voice trailed off, but there was only silence from Nameless, so I continued, quietly, nearly whispering.

“I wasn’t willing to concede, I wanted something else.” The repetitive sound of his fingers tapping came to a halt, and a warm hand found its way over mine.

“Like me.” He whispered sorrowfully, and the stumble of his words made me realize he was crying again.

“Yes,” I stuttered, “Yes, like you.”

Then his hand left mine, and he left me to stand alone on the deck of the ship. As I faced the open water, the dark realization of what I’d stepped into struck me even harder than his question.

Posted by: Dantrag Jan 28 2006, 02:41 AM

good update. Lots of emotion, and the mystery of Nameless still grips us.

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 28 2006, 09:06 PM

The ship sailed on for several hours, and I went to the cabin to rouse Nameless and Windswept from sleep. The fact that Nameless was emotionally disturbed, or so it appeared, didn’t do well to help build my courage as I placed a hand on his shoulder to shake him.

He mumbled something and turned over, and slowly his eyes opened to peer up at me. Then he smiled, much to my astonishment, and he stood up. I quickly backed away so as not to make the room feel congested.

“We only have about two hours until we reach port.” I informed him.

I saw him whisper to Windswept and the dog heaved its sleepy head and raised itself. Then, Nameless gathered what little we had and strode to the cabin door.

We all went onto the deck together, and all of us were surprised to see another ship sailing not a hundred strides from us, and making its way closer at a rapid speed.

The Shipmaster was on deck with the rest of the crew, and was barking orders. Something didn’t seem right, it was far to busy.

I seized on my curiosity and put forth my question to one of the crew standing nearby.

“Miss, I think its best if you stay in the cabin from now until we dock at port, we’re not sure who sails the other ship, but it looks to be pirates who made their way up the channel from Topal Bay.”

Oh Mara, save me.

To coincide with my thought, I raised a hand to my mouth, and my face furrowed.

What have I gotten into? Shall the waters be where I lie for the rest of eternity?

Nameless was in concurrence with my reaction, and when my discomfort became noticeable his hand moved to the hilt of his small sword. “They won’t harm us.” He said unsurely, “I’ll-we’ll fight back, won’t we Luna?”

I didn’t know what to say, and I opened my mouth as if to speak, but nothing was spoken.

How is he so good at catching me unready with such demanding questions?

“I don’t know, I don’t know!” I cried out, desperately searching for an answer as I closed my eyes.

I don’t know.

Posted by: Kiln Jan 29 2006, 11:05 PM

Wonderful update Gamer, I can't wait until I find out what happens next. You've truly given us quite a cliffhanger here with this last bit.

Update soon!

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 30 2006, 09:19 PM

If every installment continues to increase the depth of this story, soon I fear I will be overwhelmed. The emotional complexity of your characters, especially Nameless, is truly astounding. I continue to look forward to each new post with eager anticipation.

Posted by: minque Jan 30 2006, 10:20 PM

I´ve just read through this whole story.....and I´m really glad I did....it´s plain awesome. You really have a talent of describing events, felings and details in a way that really is impressive.

Keep it up gamer.....I want more of this amazing story


By the way....I´m sorry I´v not commented more.....I´ll try my best to be more attentive!

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 31 2006, 07:19 PM

“Luna?”

No, no, no!

“Luna?”

A hand grasped my shoulder, and shook me a bit. My eyes blinked open, and I gazed into the eyes of Nameless. They were alive with fear, sorrow, and a deep confusion. I took it from the look upon his face that mine did not differ much in that respect.

“Luna, the ship is approaching, surely, if they are pirates, they will attack the ship from afar before boarding to weaken it.” His tone of his voice was mixed anxiety and anticipation, and perhaps I sensed a bit of concern.

“What are you suggesting?” I asked. His voice implied a proposal.

“I think you ought to seek shelter in the cabin, or you might be injured in the foray.”

Are you mad?

“Don’t be silly,” I said as I shrugged off his request, “I’ll be fine, besides, that ship doesn’t look so big anyway.”

He unsheathed his sword, but I did not draw my own. I suspected that this whole ordeal would be over without a fight, but because I was not certain I placed my hand on the hilt of my sword as he had, not a few minutes ago.

“Don’t be to hasty, we have yet to see if they are even hostile,” I whispered to him, I had no reason to whisper but it seemed to fit the situation.

“Luna, they have yet to give us a reason to think of them as friendly.” He responded grimly, it sounded as if he had suddenly become angry with me.

Windswept was at our feet, and he was yelping excitedly. Was this a signal?

“Windswept is sure that there are pirates aboard that ship,” Nameless informed me. I bent down and smiled halfheartedly at the dog.

“I am beginning to wonder,” I said aloud, though I meant to keep my thoughts to myself so I spoke no more.

I stood and stared at the oncoming ship, and my sword shone in the air moments later when it aligned with ours.

---------------
Thanks for the inspiring comments, school is going to be hectic for about two weeks from here on out, so don’t expect many other updates, or if any at all, expect them to be small.

Thanks again to all of you for taking the time to read what I’ve written.

Posted by: mplantinga Jan 31 2006, 08:02 PM

There is definitely more to this dog than meets the eye; perhaps it is some unfortunate mage stuck in a dog's form? Equally curious is how Nameless seems to understand the dog's barking, which suggests (as we already knew) that there's a lot more to Nameless than is obvious. These mysteries are the part of the story that captures most of my attention. Somehow, I don't think that the ship actually contains pirates; part of me suspects that the chase and soon-to-come boarding of the ship have much more to do with the passengers than with piracy. I'll try to wait patiently to find out the truth of the situation.

Posted by: minque Jan 31 2006, 09:17 PM

what mplantinga said! I second that fully. And I do understand when real life interfers with your creation....hmmm it´s very common I´d say,.

But we will wait for you to update.....when you can find the time to do so....

Posted by: Kiln Jan 31 2006, 11:09 PM

Argh...it is too bad we'll have to wait for the next update I'm dying to see what happens next. I truly hope you find the time to update now and again while juggling school.

Best of luck with school and life mate!

Posted by: Neck' Thall Feb 1 2006, 05:44 AM

I Like This Story as well, It is very well written and you seem to have put a lot of time into it. Ohh and Minque, i Know the quote you have in your sig is from Voltair but, what exactly does it say?

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 4 2006, 01:07 AM

The ship wasn't as ominous when it came close enough for a detailed look on my behalf, and I was relieved when, instead of a one leg, one eyed pirate, a rather striking young woman boarded our ship after the two had positioned properly.

"I'm Captain Ponius, and that," she said as she motioned to her ship, "is Fina."

I couldn't help but chuckle at the lackluster name she'd bestowed upon the ship, for it was grand.

"And what in the name of Oblivion do you want Miss Ponius, I thought you were a darn pirate!"

The newly boarded woman frowned, "Pilpen you old man, you can clearly tell that the ship I'm sailing in is Fina."

The old captain stomped his foot, "Not from afar you can't!"

"Oh shut up. I don't care, do you have anything of interest, treasure map maybe?"

"You're too young and immature to have your own ship." The old man grumbled as he walked off.

The lady sighed, and turned to look at me. "Well who have we here? What's a pretty girl like yourself doing aboard this loafer’s ship?" she inquired.

"I'm going to the mainland," I told her hesitantly.

"Why not hop aboard my ship, we're not headed towards the mainland, but we can take you anywhere in Tamriel you'd like to go."

Someone, a member of the crew, snorted.

"Don't mind them, they're just arrogant selfish men," she said in a matter of fact tone.

"I-I'd like to, would you hold on a second," I turned to ask the opinion of Nameless and . . .yes, Windswept.

She noticed them then, and raised an eyebrow suggestively.

"Who's this?" she asked me of Nameless, the tone of her voice just as provocative as her facial expression.

I blushed, and turned away from Nameless as he stood there puzzled.

"He doesn't . . er . . exactly have a name." I told her as my cheeks burned a deeper hue of red.

"Risky, very risky, I’d find another boy if I were you?" Miss Ponius smiled as she joked.

I hadn't thought of Nameless that way, but it struck me then how it must look when the two of us traveled together.

Nameless spoke up, "Windswept and I," he told the lady "Wouldn't mind traveling with you for a while."

The lady smiled at him now, "Wonderful, just gather your stuff and jump aboard. I'm sure that we have a few spare bunks."

I nodded and took a surprised Nameless by the hand. We were going somewhere worthy of our time, I'd make sure of it.

Posted by: minque Feb 5 2006, 02:53 PM

Yay! This I like, a cocky female captain....woah.....just the way I want it......so keep it up gamer....it´s awesome!

Posted by: Neck' Thall Feb 5 2006, 04:46 PM

Again, another awesome update, It's getting better all the time. I'm windering whats the captain motives for bringing them aboard. Ohh and Yay Me!! I finally got an actual avatar!

Posted by: Kiln Feb 5 2006, 05:46 PM

Nice update Gamer, I also wonder about the captain's motives for bringing them aboard. I love the characters they seem so simple yet so complex...I know it doesn't make since but I like it so keep it up.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 6 2006, 06:51 AM

The bunks were merely large sheets tied together, which needless to say wasn’t anything comparable to the beds available on our first transport. I left Nameless and Windswept to make themselves “at home” while I wandered onto the deck; I had quite a few questions for the captain.

The captain was exceptionally busy, I noticed, and I dared not divert her attention at that particular moment, so I went back down below deck to speak with Nameless, who was leaning himself against the wall and staring blankly down at Windswept.

“So,” I began, realizing I hadn’t anything to say.

“It’s all right,” Nameless gestured to Windswept, “he likes it just fine.”

I smiled somewhat lightheartedly, “I’m so relieved.” I said feebly.

He frowned, and I hastened to change the subject away from the strange dog.

“What about you?” I inquired, forcing concern to rise in my voice.

“I’m fine, even this beats living in a stable.” He said with a smile somewhat stronger than mine, “Besides, this is all very new to me. I have yet to form my own opinion.”

I nodded, “I, as well, have yet to make judgment, but all seems well. The crew and captain seem friendly enough.”

He chuckled, “Yes, they do, especially the captain.”

I cocked an eyebrow inquisitively, “What about the captain, hmm?”

“Nothing,” he said quickly and slyly, purposefully exaggerating the situation.

“She’s a lot older than you,” I stated, fixing up my bunk.

“I suppose you think I’m going to fall for someone like that, don’t worry, I’m not interested in someone nearly twice my age.”

“I didn’t say anything like that,” I said quietly and crossly, striding determinedly away from him to climb up to the deck.

I didn’t know why I had gotten irritable, but I couldn’t stand the way he acted as if I was the least important of our troupe. Even the damnable dog received more recognition than I did.

Am I jealous?

It was several moments later that I realized I’d walked out on a clueless Nameless. Taking a deep breath, I went below again to converse with him.

He was crying. Just barely, but if you listened you could hear him sniffling, I saw him wipe his eyes as I approached.

What in the world?

“Luna?” he asked, and my heart shattered.

Don’t get like this again. . . please not again.

“What is it?” I asked as gently as I could.

“I don’t know, but I-I can’t handle this anymore. No one seems to care, no one at all.”

He was rambling.

I walked over to him, and placed an arm on his shoulder.

“Shh . . now, everything is all right.”

He pushed me away, and I stumbled backwards, tripping over myself. I stared up at him the way I had the first time he’d done that back in the barn he used to live in.

This time was different.

He rushed down to me on the ground, and kneeled over. Attempting to raise me by the arm, “I’m sorry, god I’m sorry.”

I jerked my arm out of his grip, and immediately regretted it. He burst into tears and turned away to bury his head in his hands.

“Stop it,” I said strongly, “Stop it now. You’re acting as if you’re alone, but you’re not.”

His sniffling slowed.

“You’re not alone, because I’m here with you.”

I turned him around and kneeled to look into his eyes.

“Whatever it is you’re facing, you don’t have to face it alone, but you must tell me if I am to help. I can’t stand idly by and watch you like this, I just can’t!”

He wiped away a tear, “I know Luna, I know . . . and bless your soul, but I don’t know how I am to tell you. It’s not- it’s just not that easy for me . . . am I getting through to you?”

I nodded, kindly taking his hand in mine as he had done to me when we stood upon the ship.

“I’m here, you have time. Think it over, because I’m ready to listen whenever you are ready to tell me. “I awaited a response, half expecting him to be silent.

“Thank you,” he said, and a warm feeling came over me. I felt as if my heart had reconstructed itself within my chest.

Posted by: mplantinga Feb 6 2006, 06:47 PM

Excellent updates. The great depth of pain felt by Nameless continues to tug at my heartstrings. I do hope he can find the courage to confide in Luna, and that she has the patience to help him through it.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 7 2006, 06:18 AM

I think I’ll play on the relationship forming between Luna and Nameless for a little while. I’ve had more free time than I suspected I would.
-gamer10

------------------------
“Well,” I told Nameless, “Perhaps you should come up on deck with me to have a look at the rising sun.”

Nameless smiled, and stood up. I pulled him up on deck, eagerly awaiting a chance to speak with the Captain.

Miss Ponius was standing on deck surveying the crew as they busied themselves, but she wasn’t busy directing them, so I took the opportunity to speak with her.

“Captain,” I asked rather queerly, not sure of how to address her, “Where do you plan on heading next?”

She thought for a moment, or at least I assumed that’s what she was doing, “Wherever you feel we should, as for the moment, the wind takes me where it will.”

Alarmed, I spoke quickly. “That’s an insane idea, I’d appreciate if you’d have the crew set a course for the mainland of Cyrodiil!”

“Oh don’t get that way with me little Miss, why sail straight for land. Let’s go sailing!” Captain Ponius said merrily, and I almost suspected she might break out into song and dance. I could use some amusement.

Nameless interjected, “I think, Captain, that it would be a good idea to sail somewhere safe, none of us,” he looked at me and would’ve looked towards Windswept had the dog not been below, “want to get hurt.”

The captain nodded, “Oh all right, but you’re missing out. It is greatly satisfying, to clash with Pirates.”

I shook my head nervously, “No, I’d much rather not, but as long as you take us somewhere safe you can scratch the idea of returning to Cyrodiil for the moment.”

The day passed rather quickly.



That night Nameless and I sat awake on the deck of the ship, and talked in whispers of what we expected.

He was busy attempting to frighten me with tales of dark ships and all that rubbish. What was he doing, when he was so insecure himself?

“Then, generally you hang,” he said finishing one tale, I gave him a slight push to show my objection, I suppose you could say in an affectionate way.

Before I knew it, his arms were around me and his face close to mine, close enough so that I could feel the warmth of his own body and the sound of his shallow breathing.

“What’re you doing?” I asked, my face feeling as though it was heating up.

“What does it look like?”

I was very tempted to answer that question, but I didn’t know the actions my planned answer might provoke.

“Luna?”

I realized I had closed my eyes, and when I opened them I noticed my face had drifted closer to his, I quickly withdrew.

He positioned himself so that he was sitting beside me now, and we both looked up at the stars.

“Luna, I think I can tell you now.”

I stretched out, lying on my side as I faced him. He mirrored my position.

“So tell me,” I whispered softly, and our eyes locked together as I braced myself for all he was about to throw at me.

Posted by: mplantinga Feb 7 2006, 07:20 PM

Playing indeed, you little tease. Thanks for giving us just enough information to feed our anticipation, then leaving us in painful suspense. It was a superb update, and I definitely want to know (soon!) what happens next.

Posted by: minque Feb 7 2006, 10:54 PM

may you be cursed......evil, thy name is "gamer" A cliffie.....juuust like that huh?

*sigh* Awesome installment though...

You update this soon ...or else....

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 9 2006, 06:22 AM

“Okay, well, I can’t quite remember all of it clearly, but I believe it started when I was but eight years old. I recall my mother and father-“ he stopped and suppressed a sigh, regulating his breathing, “I remember them, the people that came and took them, a few coins were exchanged and they were gone . . .” he paused for a moment.

“It was probably- well you’re parents were obviously being purchased, but how? The slave trade is illegal in Cyrodiil.” I expressed my disbelief through my tone of voice.

He nodded, “I know Luna, and I am not a citizen of the Imperial Province.”

I was shocked by this, he seemed to me to have the personality of any other Imperial I’d met, save the emotional trauma that was nagging at him.

“Where from, then, do you hail?”

He looked me in the eyes, “Will it matter any to you?”

I shook my head, “No, no it won’t.”

“Vvardenfell,” he said “Vvardenfell is my home.”

I shrugged indifferently, wondering why it would’ve mattered? I held no grudge against the people of Vvardenfell.

Suddenly his finger was at my lips, as I began to speak, “Shh . . .do you hear that?” he whispered frantically.

I heard it then, the sound of shouting. Raising my head slowly from where I was lying on the deck I peered out over the water and not far in the distance saw a ship alight with torches blazing along its own deck.

“Oh,” I exclaimed my fear sprouting and growing at a rapid pace, “What’s happening?”

Apparently, from my tone of voice, I’d frightened Nameless. He was still lying down as I stood up slowly, but moments later he hurried to stand.

“Get below deck,” I ordered him, he wouldn’t be able to fight competently at a time when his emotions had taken such a hold of him.

He looked at me, or rather down at me as I now noticed, and said blatantly, “No.”

I did not press the matter any further. As the “foreign” ship approached I noticed there were people standing and staring at the two of us.

“What the hell?”

I turned to look at Nameless as I realized his reason for such livid expression, there were arrows flying through the air. They were on fire!

Others were on the deck now, and everything was frantic. I was pushed aside several times in the minutes that followed as the crew of our ship returned fire.

Nameless was, I noticed, shaking considerably. Suddenly he snapped.

I saw him duck to the deck and hide behind a barrel, how could he do that now? He’d refused to go below deck, but now he was going to leave me to stand alone facing a volley of arrows.

“Coward,” I muttered disdainfully, surprising myself, but it was true. Or was I just callous?

The ship was even closer now, and I watched as it came near and the other crew prepared to board our ship. We were outnumbered, and well, I frankly hoped that we might be able to put up even a puny resistance.
------------------------------------

I can't go revealing everything at once, now can I? The story would die.

-Gamer10 ()

Posted by: tymestrike Feb 9 2006, 09:34 AM

Nice work. Why do I have the feeling that the flaming arrows are not a new way to say "Hi"?

Posted by: Tellie Feb 10 2006, 03:09 PM

Good Gamer really good.

I wonder what will happen. The emotions of your caracters, are so alive ( hey I found some ideas for my own story...thanks ).

Keep it up please.

Posted by: mplantinga Feb 12 2006, 09:15 PM

Once again, you've given us just enough to get our adrenaline flowing, then left us hanging. I do hope Nameless has something up his sleeve other tthan cowering in fear...

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 17 2006, 08:23 PM

http://www.keepmyfile.com/image/3db5c3500799

Perhaps it is just my intuition that the chain of events that have occurred up to this moment, took place as if they’d been fully been planned out beforehand. It’s hard to express what I mean, but it’s sort of foggy, it’s as if I’d seen this happen before it had. Life, it seems, is full of silliness, especially when it comes to destiny.

Whether this was destiny or not, I didn’t like it.

With a sigh of exasperation, I trotted grudgingly over to Nameless.

“Don’t tell my you plan on hiding here throughout everything?” I asked irritably, glowering down at him.

He looked up, surprised that I’d sauntered over, and responded rather shakily. “Yes, that’s what I plan.”

I bent down and pulled him up to his feet, “You are not going to stay down there, you insignificant coward!” I yelled, “You’re going to stand your ground!”

He looked rather sheepishly at me, as he cowered before my fury.

“O-k-kay,” he stuttered, and he drew his sword.

The ship was closing in, and I drew in a deep breath, and then let it out in attempt to relax myself.

A volley of arrows took our ship by surprise again, and Nameless threw his arms out childishly in attempt to ward them off.

A warm feeling suddenly came over me, spreading from my upper arm to my chest, surprised I looked down and gasped.

“No . . .Nameless, help!” I cried out, my head swimming as the blood from the arrow wound in my arm begin to trickle down my arm.

Wheeling around at the cue of my frightened voice, he darted over to me, as I began to lose control of myself.

“Good lord! Luna, you’ve been hit twice!”

Where had the second arrow gone . . . and then I remembered the warm feeling in my chest.

Am I going to die?

The last I remembered was that I fell forward and heard the terrified voice of Nameless calling out in desperation.

Posted by: minque Feb 17 2006, 09:18 PM

Oh....amazingly thrilling.....you reeally got yourself a superb story here gamer! yay I like it..AND the nice picture! Hehe somehow I already pictured Luna like that...in my imagination!

Good work!

Posted by: Kiln Feb 17 2006, 10:21 PM

It's like you enjoy leaving off in the most heated moment leaving us wanting for more...well it worked now get to it mate.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 24 2006, 11:14 PM

“Luna?” I heard the anxious whisper of a recognizable voice, “Luna, are you awake?’

My eyes fluttered open, partly of my conscious doing, and because my longing to see my friends, Nameless and Windswept, was so strong I just couldn’t help myself. I had been out cold for too long, I knew.

“Yes, as a matter of fact I am.” I said merrily, peeking through one eye and grinning up at Nameless, who’s panicked expression was immediately swapped with one of relief.

“Be careful, don’t move about too much, you’ll hurt yourself.” He said, and he seemed depressed despite the fact I’d awoken. His face, though not as burdened with stress as it had been only moments earlier, held no sign of happiness, not even the trace of a smile.

“Oh, don’t be silly,” I said in my normal matter of fact, yet at the same time blissful, tone of voice.

Nameless grinned a bit at that, but placed a hand on my shoulder, “Luna, if you try to get up I will restrain you, Captain Ponius would kill me if you hurt yourself while I was present.”

I sighed and made no move. Instead, I looked dejectedly, half faking my unhappiness, and immediately this forlorn expression on my behalf prompted Nameless to speak.

“Luna, while you were asleep we passed through the Topal Bay, and have set our course for Valenwood.” He told me, frowning while in thought.

“That’s fine with me. What’s the matter?” Now it was my turn to be concerned, I knew he could lose it real fast.

“I’m so far away from home. . .”

“I am far away from home as well, but – wouldn’t you rather find a better home than the one you have?”

This only caused his emotional distress to deepen, “How am I supposed to go about doing that. I know where we’re going – but then again I don’t, not really. Luna, when I first left with you, only three days ago now,” I knew then that’d I’d been asleep at least a full day, and maybe then some, “I did so because I saw an illusion of happiness, something I’d longed for all my life. When I was a child, I used to feel as if happiness was something only the wealthy and well educated could enjoy, like the emotion itself was for the privileged. I know better now, Luna, because when you opened your eyes only a minute ago I was - happy, relieved, comforted by the notion that you were all right. Happiness and content with our lives does not come through ourselves, but through others. It takes others around us to make us happy, and I suppose that’s why I was never happy. When I lived in that decrepit barn, I was never happy, but when I met you and you told me that you were willing to help me, I knew I’d found happiness. No matter where this journey may take me, as long as I’m with you I’ll be all right. I could live anywhere, as long as you were there, and be happy. I don’t need a better home, I just need someone like you.” Something in his voice made me turn my head, he was crying again.

Silence for several drawn out moments, “You haven’t a name, but you need one. Wouldn’t you like one?” I asked quietly as I attempted to understand what he’d just said.

He wiped his eyes, “Yes, I-I suppose I would. . . “

I closed my eyes for several moments, but opened them again soon afterwards, “How about . . .Edward?”

He smiled, “Sounds nice.”

I smiled back, “Sounds noble,” I said, “It’s the perfect name for you.”

And I laughed, no – I giggled (gosh it’d been a long time since I’d done that), and looked up at the ceiling, impatiently awaiting my recovery so that I might jump from this bed and run onto the deck to meet the shining sun.

Here ends the first chapter.

Posted by: Kiln Feb 26 2006, 12:29 AM

Great first chapter Gamer, there seems to be some tension building between the characters and I thought it was good that the character known only as "nameless" has been given a name at this point. Very good mate, keep it up.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 26 2006, 10:33 PM

Chapter 2


Over the oceans dark waters, above the planes and deserts of Tamriel, a spirit pondered.

“Isn’t this lovely?” he asked himself mockingly, not really expecting an answer.

“Yes, it is,” came another voice, its tone sweet and desirable.

“Luna is quite the adventurer, isn’t she?” the second voice asked.

“No, she’s a foolish young girl who’s going to end up in a lot of trouble.” The first said smugly, as if this was perfect. “She should go home.”

“Now, now, what about our plan?” Asked the second voice.

“What, that nameless, worthless, little boy. Things aren’t going as planned, he wasn’t supposed to befriend her, it will make this whole thing difficult.”

“When the time comes,” the second voice stated, “He will remember who he is, and will serve us once again. That girls blood will cleanse immortality from me, and I will once again be able to live among the mortals.”

“Why you are so jealous of mortal women I do not know, but you’ve heard my warning. Once you are a mortal you shall never return here. In fact,” said the first voice, “You aren’t even sure if Luna’s blood will bring you to a state of mortal capacity.”

“I’m sure of it,” hissed the second voice now, sweetness all but gone, “She is the one.”


Fredas, 17th of Evening Star

Eleven days now, gone by. I saw Edward gaze longingly up at the sky as the raindrops pitter-pattered on the deck of the ship.

“What’s the matter Edward?” I asked him, the familiarity of the question causing me to smile, though the situation didn’t fit it.

“Nothing, just the rain, that’s all.” The gloomy, dark sky was, I agreed, demoralizing.

“A little rain never hurt,” I told him, and the wind picked up as I said it. “C’mon, lets get below deck where it’s warm.” I finished, taking a hold of his arm and dragging him along, he much rather preferred to be on the deck, but I couldn’t let him catch cold.

Below deck I trotted over to my sack of clothing, and changed, Edward turning away so as not to embarrass me, but – I cared little for privacy now. There was no place private enough aboard this whole ship.

“Edward, you should really put on some dry clothes or you’ll get sick,” I said worryingly.
“I’ll be fine Luna,” he said dreamily.

I strolled over to him as he lay in the hammock, and stared grudgingly into his eyes.

“I’m serious Edward, if you don’t change-“ But I stopped as a smile spread across Edward’s face.

He sat up then and I backed away. “Luna, don’t you worry. You worry to much.”

He was right, I did worry far too much, but who was he to tell me that, what was so wrong with me caring.

“Fine,” I grumbled fiercely, pushing him down onto the hammock so that he was in a lying position again, “See if I care.”

He sat up hurriedly and reached out a hand to talk hold of my wrist as he stood, “Luna, I didn’t mean it like that.”

I wrenched my hand away and turned to face him, my eyes blazing with amassed anger. “How the hell did you mean it then Edward?” I cried out, “What’s so wrong with me caring about you?”

He looked hurt. “Luna, can you not see I am a young man, I just don’t need someone worrying about me right now- its not that I don’t want you too. Damn it all Luna, I just can’t care about you the same way you can about me, that’s why.”

I swiped a tear from my cheek, my anger not subsiding. “Why not?”

“I don’t know how.”

With that he turned away from me and stood silent, and, unable to speak to him now, I threw myself down onto my hammock and drifted into sleep.

Posted by: Sirin Feb 27 2006, 12:21 AM

Hahahahahahahahahaha!!!! Buuuuurn! Eat it Luna! Nah, I'm just kidding. You've definately got a nice story here Gamer. Keep it up.

Posted by: Kiln Feb 27 2006, 02:17 AM

Very nice Gamer, I'm never sure what exactly to expect from the next update and thats what really keeps me interested. Your general style and the way you portray the characters makes this story lively and entertaining. Keep it up.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 27 2006, 07:42 PM

I dreaded having to wake up several hours later and stand watch on deck with Edward. He, as usual, would act vague and confused as I stood beside him, and this is what troubled me, his lack of confidence.

Sure, I knew that there was something in his past that makes him act this way, but I couldn’t quite understand why that would cause him to dislike my concern, I’d have thought he would be desperate for friendship.



So, it was as I predicted, and several hours later Edward and I were standing on the deck of the ship looking out over the ocean for any approaching ships.

“Luna, come here.” Captain Ponius ordered, and I approached her.

“Edward is quite an eccentric isn’t he?” she asked.

I nodded, “I don’t think that’s all it is though, he seems rather lost.”

She raised an eyebrow questioningly, “How so?”

“He doesn’t no how to react – to almost anything. I think the only emotion he recognizes is fear.”

“Why is he so afraid, Luna?”

I shook my head, “I don’t know, but I wish he’d tell me. It’s strange enough sleeping a few feet away from a boy who stays awake all night.”




Edward and I stood watch for the next two hours, but neither of us could work up the courage to speak to the other.

When the watch was over, Edward began to saunter away gloomily, but something made me grab him by the shirt.

“Edward- look!” I cried out, turning him around.

He pulled away and turned to where I signaled, in the distance was none other than – the setting sun. Why didn’t he appreciate such a marvel?

“Luna – its just the sun.”

“No,” I told him firmly, “No Edward, its not. It signifies the end of the day, and the coming of the night, it’s a time to look back on the day’s achievements and ponder your own existence. Don’t you see?’

“No, I don’t.”
Frustrated, I pushed him from my path and tore across the deck, heading below.

I didn’t see him reach out in desperation at me as I passed, and whisper, “I only wish you’d teach me how.” Then, his last bit of hope gone, his arm dropped once again to his side, and he collapsed on the deck, leaning against the ships railing and sobbing into his hands as I sat on my hammock below.




Edward came down several hours later, but I pretended to be asleep. Windswept was cuddled up with me, and I knew that Edward needed a companion at a time like this, but the dog had chosen me.

“Luna, you’re awake aren’t you?” he asked accusingly.

Startled I raised my head and glowered at him, “How could you tell?”

“I’ve watched you sleep many a time, you look so much more peaceful when you sleep.”

“Oh,” was all I could manage, Windswept had decided that he wanted to speak with his “master” and had left me to lie alone.

I did feel the slightest bit guilty; ignoring Edward certainly wouldn’t help his emotional condition at the moment.

“Luna, do you ever care about where this ship might take you?”

“No,” I lied, “Edward, does it matter?”

“I just wondered, that’s all.”

“Well don’t, okay.”

“I’m sorry.”

That was it.

I jumped to my feet to face him.

“Edward, damn it all, you do understand. You know kindness, but you won’t let it show. Something’s made you afraid, and if you don’t tell me what it is how am I supposed to help you?” I threw my hands out at him, as if to wring his neck.

“I don’t know what makes me afraid, don’t believe me if you don’t want to, but Luna-“ he broke off, but didn’t cry. He was holding it back, I knew.

“Edward, if you want to cry, go ahead.”

“Please, Luna, don’t act so indifferent. You’re right, I do know kindness, I just wish I knew how to express myself the way you do.”

My frustration with him faded, and I smiled, even though I was puzzled. Taking a step closer to him, I raised my hand to his cheek.

“Let me show you how,” I said, and with a passion so furious as to only be rivaled by the goddess of love herself, I pressed my lips against his.

I only realized several moments later that Edward had no plan to break the kiss, so I was the one who pulled away.

“That was ridiculous Edward, you didn’t even try,” I laughed, rolling my eyes.

“Luna, don’t do that again – at least not while I’m stuck living several feet away from you.” He sighed and sat down on his hammock, but jumped up again.

“Captain Ponius!”

I quickly turned my gaze towards the stairs, and there stood Captain Ponius, a grin on her face.

“Well then, that’s settled.” She said, and without another word she strolled back up onto the deck, leaving Edward and I at a loss for words as we stared at each other then back at the stairs.

I guess it was settled. At least, I hoped.

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

The story should start to pick up from the next update, but I try to put a lot of emphasis on the development of the characters and their emotions, which in general slows down the story.

-Gamer10

Posted by: Kiln Feb 27 2006, 11:37 PM

I don't think it slows the story Gamer, emotion is one of the strong points of your writing after all. This part is well done, I really like watching the characters develope and Edward finally showing some signs of emotion are an excellent example. Very good mate, keep it up.

Posted by: gamer10 Feb 28 2006, 07:01 PM

“Edward – ?! What are you doing?”

He turned around to face me and I opened my mouth to scream, but as I did so my eyes peered down at his hand, and I watched as he removed his swords blade from me.

“Edward?” I choked out, “Edward, why?”

“Goodbye Luna,” he whispered his eyes glinting with sudden lunacy, “Goodbye.”

Darkness prevailed.


I awoke with a start, and with a headache. Scattered memories of the night were etched upon my brain. The images of my dream were blurry and confusing. So, I tried not to remember, for it only worsened my headache.

Edward wasn’t in his hammock, but Windswept was, the dog was fast asleep.

I strolled over to it and patted it gently on the head as it slept; it opened one eye and peered up at me.

“What’s your secret?” I asked it, humoring myself.

“Funny you should ask.”

Startled, I glanced up, my eyes obviously displaying my shock.

Edward laughed, “I think you fell for it.”

I rolled my eyes, “No, Edward – “I didn’t finish.

He took hold of my arm, “C’mon Luna, lets go up, I think we’ve anchored somewhere.”

My eyes lit up, “Really?”

He nodded, “Well, I think so. I haven’t been on deck, and I can’t tell the difference right after waking up, so hurry-“

We went upon deck, and sure enough. Our ship was anchored, but where?

Captain Ponius and the crew were nowhere in sight.

“I think they might’ve gone off looking for food, we’re rather low on supplies you know, and Captain Ponius doesn’t have a steady income of treasure to purchase supplies with.”

Edward grinned at me, “Looks like we’re alone for now.”

“Don’t get any ideas!” I said warily, looking about the land in front of us.

I was most certainly either part of the mainland of Tamriel, or a humongous island that stretched very far.

Posted by: Tellie Feb 28 2006, 07:36 PM

+
Ohhh really, it's getting better this story, you are doing a fabulous story gamer, and I really love it.

I was right when I thought luna and Edward would kiss, but I had hoped they would get together though. Thanks for writing gamer.

Posted by: mplantinga Mar 2 2006, 12:39 AM

Just got caught up, and wow, this story has really progressed. Not only is "Nameless" no longer nameless, but has some deep, dark, perhaps even unknown secret that threatens Luna's very existence. Additionally, I still get the feeling that there's a lot more to Windswept than meets the eye. Thanks for the great update(s); I'm really looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Posted by: minque Mar 2 2006, 12:44 AM

Oh...I´m so sorry I´ve missed a lot of your updates, but rest assure..i´ll catch up! This story is faaar too good not to follow!

Posted by: gamer10 Mar 14 2006, 10:52 PM

Sometimes new things can be wonderful, but on the other hand, if I were to judge by my experiences from the moment I stepped out into the darkened, snowy, and bitterly cold streets of the Imperial City, I would say that new things are not my preference right now. I’d find myself thinking that sticking to old and “normal” things would have been a more intelligent decision on my behalf.

On the other hand, when I think of Edward, I don’t hesitate for a second to think that this has been for the better. I can almost certainly say that living in a barn with a “dog” and scrounging for food in order to survive is without doubt not a way that any sane person would want. I’m sorry if you like living in a barn, but if you do you’re probably crazy. Then again, Edward seemed reluctant to leave his last home.



The crew returned hours later, all with a look of a very hopeless despair “plastered” onto their faces. When I approached Captain Ponius, she shook her head and walked on. I followed after her as she motioned for the rest of the crew to board the ship.

“What’s the matter Captain?” I inquired.

She looked at me, smiling a bit feebly, “Luna, we’ve been unsuccessful in discovering any edible items, or that at least looked edible. We’re completely out of rations, and we have no idea where we are at the moment. We’re going to have to hustle and find a port city so we can stock up on supplies, and we have to find it soon or we’ll be out of operation, if you get my point.”

I nodded, “Is this a first.”

Captain Ponius sighed, “Sadly, no. Quite frankly it happens often, and it really isn’t anything to worry you over, never has a man or woman died from starvation aboard my ship, and it won’t happen now. Now disease, that’s a whole other story.”

I frowned, “So, how do we know where to find supplies if you haven’t the faintest clue as to where we are?”

She didn’t answer, and I took that to mean something bad, but nonetheless I acted enthusiastically optimistic when I went and spoke with Edward about the dilemma.

“Luna if we don’t have any food, and we don’t know where we are, how the hell are we supposed to survive?” He appeared angry but I knew he was only concerned, “I’m starting to think that livin’ in a barn wasn’t such a bad idea.”

“Don’t talk like that, besides, that barn smelled terrible.” I grinned, trying to make light of the situation, but I knew that the situation could easily be labeled as desperate.

----------------
Sorry about the relative brevity of the passage, but I’m busy at the moment, perhaps an update late today, if not probably on Thursday.

-gamer10

Posted by: Tellie Mar 15 2006, 04:04 PM

I'll be waiting...thanks for updatin Gamer...I did notmanage my deadline that was to yesterday either...so it's not only you who is busy.....wonderfull update, to bad they dont find any food...they might just get sick....:paperbag:

Posted by: minque Mar 17 2006, 09:17 PM

For the sake of Azura! Another one I´ve apparently neglected to comment for quite some time! Please bear with me! I´m reading and I like what I read.....but that´s often it...

But please keep it coming !!!

Posted by: gamer10 Mar 28 2006, 05:49 AM

It was in the early hours of the morning the following day that I realized that Edward and I were not welcome among the ships crew. Indeed, as I strolled onto the deck, Edward still asleep in his hammock, they were gathered in a group, chattering vehemently among themselves.

I waved to one, but in return I got nothing more than a hurried glimpse as they dispersed. Immediately, I recognized something was the matter, but then again, when was everything just fine?

I leaned over the railing as we sailed, and I watched several men fishing, so I guess we wouldn’t be that bad off after all, but would fish really hold us until our next stop?

Not but a short time later, by my estimates less than half of an hour, Edward came upon me looking out over the waters, as he yawned and stretched. “Mornin’,” he muttered, his arms falling to his sides.

“Good morning,” I returned, wondering whether or not to cede my suspicions of the situation of apparent hostility concerning the crew to his rather “sensitive” ears. I certainly did not want to frighten him, for I knew his reaction would be first one of fear, and perhaps would not change from that.

“It’s nice outside today, clear skies, shining sun, fish for food,” I added the last bit disdainfully, letting my head droop so that my forehead touched the wooden railing.

He laughed cheerfully, “Hey, it’s better than nothin’.” He slapped his hand down hard on the railing beside my head, and I jerked it (in this case the it being my head, though something of his could of used a slight bit of a jerking as well) upward, slightly surprised at his lighthearted disposition.

“If there’s something to be so cheerful about, please share whatever it is with me,” I said cynically, my hands gripping the railing as I heaved a sigh.

“We’re both alive; I take it that should be good enough.”

I looked at him apprehensively, my fingers tapping a rhythm, “We may not be for long, not with what we’ve been through already, I’ll be damned if it doesn’t get any worse.”

“Well be damned then, I’ll be happy.” He said, sounding slightly hurt by my pessimistic abruptness.

“Edward, with you its awkward depression one day and exaggerated happiness the next,” I stated in that all too familiar matter of fact tone.

“Luna, with you its superfluous worry one day, and even more the next, you really need to view things in at least some light.”

I looked at him uneasily, but then grinned, “Big word Edward, I don’t suppose you actually know the meaning of superfluous.”

He cocked an eyebrow, “Well, aren’t we haughty?”

“Yes, I suppose I am, and what of it.”

To this, he had no retort, but he gave me a sly look before sauntering off. “That’s right, run away,” I yelled teasingly after him. He turned his head in mid step, and stumbled over himself, crashing into a barrel before rebounding backward onto the deck, sprawled out on his back. Gasping slightly, I hurried over, kneeling beside him. His eyes were closed and I took it he must’ve hit his head hard.

“Oh it can’t be that bad,” I mumbled, reaching out to shake him.

Suddenly his hand gripped my wrist and I was pulled atop him, in a flurry of arms and legs and changing positions for several moments, I ended up on top.

“Edward!” I shrieked disapprovingly, “How dare you?”

He just grinned, and I moved away from him, using the culprit barrel as my support, moments later he too was standing. “I seriously cannot believe you did that.” I said as I tried to catch my breath.

His grin disappeared, “I’m sorry Luna, but seriously, you need to smile more often.”

I shook my head in disbelief, “As if you’re any better, mister emotionally unstable.” I finished and stomped off, the thought of an aggressive crew now the last thing on my mind.

-----------------
Well, hopefully this story has been satisfying up to this point, I decided to sit down and write a little more, and hopefully I can update tomorrow as well. I can never know what life has to throw at me. May your Oblivion playing be wonderful, as mine sure as heck is going to be.

-Gamer10

Posted by: treydog Mar 28 2006, 04:50 PM

Great to see an update. The writing is sure and concise- interesting characters that keep us guessing. I look forward to more.

Posted by: minque Mar 29 2006, 08:18 PM

Very nice update!.....I agree with Master treydog about your writing style..and even if I don´t reply always.....I do read!! And enjoy it..

Posted by: gamer10 Mar 29 2006, 10:06 PM

This is perhaps the biggest update ever, since the first post, and it was written in a time span of forty minutes or so without any previous planning as I’d done up till then. I know where I’m going with this story, and it should only continue to develop and grow from here on out. Enjoy, and beware the many typos that probably still exist, as I haven’t taken the time to edit it.

-Gamer10

---------------------------------------
It was getting worse, I could tell. It may not yet have been apparent to Edward, or, if Windswept was capable of realizing such things, him as well. The crew seemed to me to have taken on an intimidating air. It didn’t do to calm my nerves, nor the captain, who noticed something, thought not quite sure what, was out of place, and approached me about it as I was preparing to approach her.

The usually bright and relaxed face of Captain Ponius was filled with obvious worry as she advanced toward where I was laying in my hammock, staring impassively up at the damp wooden ceiling, and listening to the sound of Windswept breathing.

“Where’s Edward?” She asked suddenly, a hint of concern flowing out with her words as she stood above me.

I didn’t answer, because I hadn’t heard her, but she repeated herself, this time in a firm, demanding manner, which immediately secured my attention. She’d spoken as never before, her voice a mixture of anxiety, ferocity, and a surprising uncertainty.

“Luna, damn it, pay attention. Where the hell is Edward?”

I raised my head, supporting myself with my elbow as I sat up. “I don’t know, on deck I suppose, fooling around,” I told her, then shrugged.

She yanked me up by my shoulders, and I winced and pushed her off. To my surprise she grabbed hold of me tighter.

“Luna you have to find Edward now, there’s trouble, I know it. Bring Edward and yourself to my cabin, and make haste.” She hurried off, her hand drifting regularly past the hilt of her sword, which was tucked in its sheath.

I stood up and hurried to the deck, where I saw Edward leaning against a mast and talking to one of the shipmen. I quickly made my way over to him, and he stopped talking and glanced hesitantly at me, and I met his gaze and realized for a moment there that he did realize there was something happening.

“Luna,” he told me once we were alone by the mast as the other man chuckled and sauntered off, “Something terrible is happening, I heard them.”

I shot him an apprehensive glare, “Whatever, hurry up we need to get to the Captain’s cabin, then you can tell me whatever you feel like.”

He flinched at my stare, but followed after me as I made my way to the Captain’s cabin.

We entered and I let Edward enter first, shutting the door behind me and turning the lock. Captain Ponius was seated at a table and she beckoned for us to come. I took the remaining seat, and Edward sat on the ground, which was probably more comfortable anyway.

“Now I’m gonna cut to the point real quick here, I fear that we might not have much time.” I nodded, and Edward just went about looking even more frightened.

“Some of you might have noticed it, but then again you might not have, but the crew has been acting rather rowdy lately, even to the point of disobeying direct commands from myself.” She paused and lifted a goblet to her lips, then continued. “I was listening at the door of my cabin last night, and I overheard the crew, judging by what I heard that night I take it their planning to mutiny.”

I shook my head, and mouthed “no.”

“I’m afraid so Luna, there’s no possible way they were discussing anything else, I mean what else-“ she stopped, and I stopped listening. Turning our heads, we looked directly at Edward, his head was buried in his hands and he was sobbing, near silently.

“Edward,” I asked calmly, suspecting it to be a fit of fear, “What’s the matter?”

He said nothing for a long while, and as I sat there I began to get nervous, then all of a sudden he spoke up, but it was quiet and he sounded sick through his sobbing.

“I’m –sorr-rry,” he muttered, looking up at me with teary eyes and then burying his face in his hands again.

“Edward?” I asked, “Sorry for what?”

“I’m sorry.” He repeated, and he stopped crying, but his head was still protected by his hands.

“Edward, what was it you were going to tell me on deck, what were you going to say?”

He didn’t answer and I quickly grew impatient, the situation did not require this complication. I knelt in front of him, leaving my chair, and pulled his hands away from his face. “Edward, look at me and tell what this is about.”

He used his hands to push himself away from me, as if he was fleeing from danger, “I knew, Luna, I knew.”

The first question that came to mind was, “For how long?”

“Ever since – before – before you kissed me, I knew,” and he broke down sobbing again.

I was up in a moment, and I approached him rapidly, my mind racing with spite. “You knew,” I spat angrily, “You knew and you couldn’t tell me. I’d of thought that you loved me, I thought I mattered to you Edward, the same way you mattered to me.”

“You do matter to me Luna, please don’t-“ he cowered as I kicked out at him.
“Shut up!” I yelled, “Just shut up. You know what’s going to happen to us now; we’re probably going to be killed. We’re going to die because of you, because you didn’t tell us, we couldn’t escape. I hate you!”

I was on him in a fury, my hand in a fist as I pounded his face and all the rest of him I could find. All I heard was the revolting sobs of a traitor who deserved no more than death. I barely realized that I wasn’t hitting anything moments later, that I’d been pulled away by someone much stronger than myself, that I’d been thrown to the ground away from Edward. I only came to my senses when the tip of a blade was at my throat, at first I though Edward had managed to throw me off him and draw his sword, but I knew that this wasn’t his sword. It belonged to the Captain.

“Enough you stupid girl! This is not the time for such irrational behavior as you have displayed. He has admitted to his guilt, and needs sympathy, not pain. There is more than what he’s told us, I’m sure.” She sheathed her sword and offered her hand, “Indeed, Edward is not a traitor, but more of an honest, yet fearful young man caught between dire circumstances, and unsure of which path to take.”

I was breathing heavily, and I took her hand as I struggled to regain my breath. As I stood I realized my hands were wet, and I glanced down at them. At this point I nearly bent over sick, they were smeared with blood, and I glanced over at Edward, who was staring up at me in such a manner of shock that I immediately pitied him.

I started to speak “Edward-“, knowing that what I’d done was far beyond my power to repair. He’d have to forgive me of his own free will, and I mustn’t beg for forgiveness. So I said no more but felt uncomfortable as he sat there wiping his various cuts with the back of his hand and looking at the blood that’d smeared there.

“Luna,” the Captain said firmly, and my attention shifted to her. “We have a lot to do, or we will certainly face death, come now sit and let us speak. Edward will be okay, he’s not as bad as he looks, and seeing as how the ships doctor is probably involved in the mutiny, we must not call for him.”

I retook my seat, and the plotting began.

Posted by: Kiln Mar 29 2006, 10:30 PM

Very nice addition here Gamer, lots of content here and hearing of the plans for the crew to mutiny was surprising to say the least, I hope they can find some way around it. I'm dying to find out what happens next, hope you find the time to update again soon.

Posted by: minque Apr 1 2006, 04:55 PM

Excellent update gamer! it´s thrilling and I enjoy reading it very much!

Posted by: gamer10 Apr 2 2006, 06:27 AM

WARNING: This section of the story contains several relatively gruesome scenes, and probably would be considered unsuitable for the most sensitive of minds. Take heed in reading this next portion.

-Gamer10

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

A knock on the cabin door quite a while later broke the seamless discussion by which the captain and I were hastily making decisions in order to save our lives, and perhaps Edward’s as well.

Edward, though in bad shape after the substantially brutal beating, was up in a moment, but I pushed him away from the door, ignoring the fervent anger that lit up in his eyes.

Captain Ponius was up beside me, and out of the corner of my eye I saw her give Edward a sympathetic glance, “Luna, really, must you be so heartless?” she whispered as I peered through a small hole in the door to see who was knocking.

“After what he did, yes.”

She sighed, and I heard Edward amble off, muttering fervidly to himself, catching the words “teach her a lesson,” but nothing else.

“It looks to be the first mate,” I whispered in an anxious manner to the Captain, “He doesn’t look – very friendly to say the least.”

She took me securely by the shoulder and pulled me several feet away from the door. “Stand back Luna,” she whispered breathlessly, “And draw your sword, we must face them now, be it for the better, or the worse.”

She swung the door open, and there stood the first mate, his eyes wide when he spotted our drawn swords. His hand unsheathed his in a moment, “So, I guess its time to part, my loyalty no longer belongs to you, Ponius.”

He threw himself at her, wildly bringing his sword down upon her head, and I noted his unfair height advantage. Just as fiercely, and what seemed unbelievably swift, Captain Ponius brought her sword to parry his, as her feet danced her away from him.

“I guess you’ll die here,” she spat, “It’s a pity really, the wood will be stained red.”

He lunged at her again, thrusting at her midsection with his iron blade. She dodged around him as he threw his weight forward in what he thought a deadly strike, but she was already taking advantage of his awkward position.

“Damn you woman, hold still.”

Captain Ponius grinned malevolently, her body moving provokingly around the first mate as she sprung forward using her feet as a base for her leap, and drove her sword through the mans abdomen as he turned to face her.

“Good god!” I gasped as she twisted her blade, her face bright red with excitement. “Captain, stop!”

She turned and glanced at me, “Shut up Luna, I’m giving him what he deserves.”
I closed my mouth but watched as the man grunted in pain as Ponius continued to manipulate her blade. Finally I could bear it no longer, and I pulled on her arm. “Stop it, now!”

She complied with my demand, removing her blade from the first mate, entrails lingering on it, and then smugly wiping it on his back after he crumpled face forward onto the floor. “He thought he would come in here, in my cabin, aboard my ship, and take me prisoner.” She scoffed, “Well, he certainly didn’t get what he came for.”

I ignored her, bending over as I fought to control the contents of my breakfast. It didn’t suit me well that all I’d eaten was fish.

She gave me an enthusiastic pat on the back, “Get used to it Luna, or you won’t survive. There’s plenty more of that scum waiting for us, ready your sword.” She glanced at Edward, who was staring wide eyed at the lifeless body of the first mate.

“You too, boy, stand up.”

And he stood up.

Posted by: treydog Apr 3 2006, 02:56 PM

Your story is moving forward nicely- again we have the complex relationship between Luna and Edward framed by the more immediate issue of the mutiny. Very nicely done.

Posted by: gamer10 Apr 4 2006, 10:47 PM

And he stood up.

His eyes were alight with enthused zeal, in spite of his minor injuries sustained during the “scuffle” I’d just had with him. Timidly, he glanced at me, and I suddenly shivered in anticipation of the coming battle, both out of fear and exhilaration.

A moment later he’d drawn his sword, and was gazing towards the open cabin door, from which the lower portion of the ships deck could be seen. There were people below; I could see the backs of their heads.

It was then that I noticed something, Windswept was beside Edward.

How did you get there?

The sound of the crowd of crewmen gathered outside began to resonate around the whole ship. They were laughing and jostling each other in a vigorous yet friendly manner, but they knew good and well what they were about to do.

Edward stepped forward, anxiously, rapidly taking in breath.

“Wait,” she told him, “Wait just a moment.”

“We’ll fight our way through the crowd, because on the opposite end of the ship there is a small rowboat, I know it sounds silly, but I’ve done things like this before and survived.”

“Wait a minute,” I said in disbelief, “We’re fleeing?”

“What else do you want us to do; they’ll kill us if they catch us.”

There was silence for a moment.

“Luna,” a voice spoke softly to me, “The gods are with us.”

“Let’s hope so, Edward.”

-----------------------------------------
Relatively short, yes, but – well you know – Oblivion – and all – and school – and all that other stuff.

Stuff.

P.S. This ends the second chapter.

-Gamer10

Posted by: Kiln Apr 5 2006, 03:06 AM

Great end to the second chapter mate, really want to see how the next part turns out so do us all a favor and keep up the good work.

Posted by: treydog Apr 5 2006, 02:16 PM

And the tension and excitement build... Excellent ending, even if it is a bit of a cliff-hanger.

Posted by: Fethenwen Apr 19 2006, 01:12 PM

Wow, wow, wow, five trouple wow! (not sure if that's a word). This is some good stuff you write here!
Hope you update soon!

Posted by: gamer10 Apr 21 2006, 01:16 AM

By the time it was all over, I was in complete misery, to put it lightly. Bodies lay strewn from our blades, not that we were all left in tiptop shape. Edward held a hand on his wound, his left arm sliced open. Luckily the blade did not cause the damage it could have, and his arm was still intact.

We were in the rowboat, and what a silly predicament it was. Captain Ponius literally rowed us away from the ship as I tended Edward’s wound, which was an extremely nasty task.

“Ah,” Edward flinched, biting his lip, “Careful.”

I pulled his right hand from his wound, “Move your hand so I can see it.”

“Since when have you been a healer?”

I scowled, raising my blade menacingly, “Move it now, or the other arm gets it as well.”

He complied, and I looked at the wound. The bleeding was not serious, but it would need to be bandaged for the time being, since Edward, Captain Ponius and I were poor healers.

I looked around for some cloth, but found none.

Of course not.

“Take off your shirt,” I told him.

He looked at me, blankly for a moment, “What?”

“Give me your shirt, hurry up.”

“I can’t, my arm-“

“Oh, for goodness sake.” I tore his shirt from him in such a forceful manner that he slumped over forward, scrambling to sit up. I then tore it into sizeable shreds and pulled his arm towards me.

After the bandage was fixed on his arm, I leaned back and took a look around.

Lots of water.

Sighing, I glanced at Captain Ponius, who was no longer rowing as the current forced us to drift along. Her gaze was forlorn, and I knew at once that this particular dilemma had no viable solution. At least for the moment.

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

Short, again.

Well . . .oh well.

-gamer10

Posted by: Kiln Apr 21 2006, 02:32 AM

Short but just as well Gamer, I do wish I knew what would happen next mate so please continue soon.

Posted by: minque Apr 21 2006, 07:50 PM

Well written gamer! I like it...continue please!

Posted by: Fethenwen Apr 22 2006, 05:17 PM

No matter if it's short, it's still something, and very good something it is

Posted by: treydog Apr 25 2006, 04:47 PM

Another good addition- and another problem for our adventurers. What a joy to read this story.

Posted by: mplantinga May 1 2006, 07:16 PM

Why does it seem that with every new installment, their predicament becomes more dire? They really deserve to have at least one thing go their way; maybe they find some better luck soon?

Keep up the great work. I continue to look forward to watching the ever-more complex interactions between Luna and Edward.

Posted by: gamer10 May 5 2006, 04:58 AM

The boat floated on for hours . . which, very unfortunately, stretched into days.

No food, no clean water – yes, the situation was bad.

Edward’s wound hadn’t healed properly, and had gotten infected. I felt terrible, sick I mean. My stomach lurched at every wave that tossed us. Edward had already been sick over the side of the boat and it was only a matter of time now- something dreadful was going to happen, I could feel it.

I hoped to the gods I was wrong.

It rained the fourth night in, and by morning I was drenched and I felt cruddy, and hungry, and even more terrible than I had before.

By the sixth night we’d given up hope, death was but a step away when the miracle happened.

It was strange really, but during this whole time Windswept hadn’t shown any signs of discontent or hunger, and I found myself watching the animal for quite some time.

The seventh day brought good luck, we sighted coast.

We carried Edward off the boat, he groaned, muttering something incomprehensible as I laid him down on the shore as gently as I could manage (he wasn’t exactly light). He was burning up, a fever he had, but I had no medicine and my attempts to heal him were useless.

There is some good news.

We found shelter for the evening. It turns out we landed ourselves at Valenwood, the home of the Wood Elves. Nice folk really, a bit annoying at times though.

There was a deserted cottage on the shore (yes, very convenient wasn’t it.)

Hopefully that night would be a peaceful one.

Posted by: Kiln May 6 2006, 03:23 AM

Great update Gamer, a glimmer of hope shows through all that has happened. Keep it up.

Posted by: minque May 6 2006, 08:52 PM

Hmm...poor Edward....I do hope he will get trough it.....anyway..good work gamer...


S.G.M

Posted by: gamer10 May 28 2006, 05:26 AM

Someone was groaning, muttering, tossing violently as they tried to escape the twine of torture tightly wrapped around their neck. The support plank dropped-

I awoke with a start, and sat up. My thought process was hazy, probably due to the fact that it was late at night, but also maybe because I hadn’t eaten anything for a while. I was aching, from head to toes, but I was considerably well off. I stood up and looked around, I saw the Captain sleeping peacefully by the door.

Edward was sleeping in the only bed available, but it did little to comfort him as he dozed. He was tossing about in his bed. I strode over and placed my hand on his forehead, before promptly pulling it away.

He was burning, and despite his relative warmth I shivered. His forehead was sweaty, and I assumed that must mean the rest of him was as well. I held his hand, and was startled when he squeezed mine.

“Luna?” he muttered, as if he wasn’t sure I was really a person or whether he’d been dreaming his whole life. His eyes were still closed.

“Yes?”

“I feel all warm.”

“Yes Edward, I believe you’re sick.”

“No – I mean I know I’m sick.”

I raised an eyebrow, puzzled at his vagueness. “Go back to sleep Edward, you’ll be alright.”

It was minutes later that he dozed off again, and I smiled grimly, if that is even possible. I then paced back and forth the cabin for a while. I stopped after a while when I noticed that Captain Ponius was staring smugly at me.

“You look like you know something I don’t.”

“I do.” She responded, the smug expression never leaving her.

“Well spill it, if it’s important.”

She obviously didn’t take me seriously, but she patted the damp wooden floor beside her. “Sit down.”

I obeyed, but would have preferred to continue pacing. I felt more at ease, and useful for that matter, when I was standing up.

Neither of us spoke for awhile, but I felt a little better as time went on, sitting by her and trying to forget the Edward was in a terrible state.

“You love him, don’t you?”

I turned to face her, and blushed, the darkness concealing it well.

“I – don’t really know.”

“Well neither do I girl,” her voice sounded playful now, “So hurry up and decide, I can’t stand the romantic momentum that’s building between you two.”

I laughed, still embarrassed, leaning my head back against the wall and facing forward again. “Love is a sketchy subject.”

“No,” she said breathily, sarcasm strong.

“Oh stop it,” I muttered crossly, turning to face the other way.

“I think it’s rather fun,” she grinned, the outline of her face barely visible in the night, “I do wish we had a candle, it gets rather lonesome in the dark, even when you’re not alone.”

Silence for several moments, “You think Edward will be okay?”

“Oh face it, you’re mad about him.”

“Stop teasing me, I’m trying to be serious here.” I pulled my knees up and rested my head on them, I knew the way I stuttered – no matter how slight it was, would give me away.

“I’ll admit,” she said, her voice now rather alluring, seductive, “He is handsome.”

I fidgeted uncomfortably, “He’s all for the taking.”

She immediately frowned, “That’s not what you were supposed to say.” She sighed, “A heap of fun you are, Luna.”

The night wore on, and I sat there, resting my head on my knees. If the morning came, which I hoped to the gods that it would for Edward, then the sun had better be shining strong. Sunshine or rain, however, my determination would not weaken.

Posted by: Kiln May 28 2006, 06:39 AM

Great stuff, very emotional update this one. Alot of mushy stuff, didn't really reveal anything that the reader hadn't guessed, just confirmed that she liked him...which is an accomplishment I'm just saying I'd already guessed so much. Anyways great job, please continue soon Gamer.

Posted by: gamer10 May 29 2006, 09:34 PM

“You hear that, someone’s snoring.” a young mans voice, though whispered, was loud enough to be heard through the holes in the cabins walls, where the morning light shown through.

“Yes,” responded another man, seemingly a bit older by the apparent gruffness of his voice.

I listened carefully, my heart pounding. Were we trespassing? I reached out one hand and shook the Captain, gently by her shoulder, and she opened her eyes simultaneously with her mouth, as if to speak. She stayed quiet however, for the voices of the strangers were more than just perplexing.

“We’re on someone else’s turf,” Ponius whispered moments later, standing up and quietly moving to the door, her sword drawn.

I followed suit, my sword in my hand. I glanced back to where Edward was sleeping.

The door flew open and I was on the ground in a moment. A fleeting look at Captain Ponius revealed that she was in no better a position than me. My sword hand was pinned down by someone else’s. I looked up, and struggled to move my arm.

“Well now pretty girl, calm down.”

I wrenched one hand free and formed it into a fist, bringing it to smack against the face of the man who held me down.

Whoever it was grabbed hold of my hand again and forced it down, using much more force than before.

“If you’re going to act like that, I might as well get rid of you right now.”

I stopped struggling, and he grinned. Surprisingly enough, it was a much more compassionate grin than I’d expected.

He moved away from me, and I was still for several brief seconds, before he motioned for me to stand up. Captain Ponius was already standing.

“What is the meaning of this?” It was a girl’s voice, very demanding. I looked to the door.

A beautiful young woman, not much older than me, strode through the door, moving with grace and zest unmatched by any I’d ever witnessed before. Her green eyes were stunning, and conveyed a feeling of passionate resonance. Her body was sparingly covered, elegant garments concealing the most exclusive places.


“No,” I said, surprising even myself as I stood and stared defiantly towards her, a sense of enmity arising in me. “I believe it is I who should ask such a question, for you are the predator.”

The younger man took a step forward, and with a sudden ferocity, struck me across the face. I stumbled sideways as he watched angrily.

“Don’t you speak to her like that-“

The girl however, seemed shocked at his action, and cut him off.

“Celo, cut that out, you’ll get me in a good deal of trouble if you continue attacking people like that.”

He bowed his head and stepped back.

“Sorry Minia,” he muttered ashamedly.

Captain Ponius looked peeved, at the assault upon me only worsened her attitude. “If men here go around beating their women for such petty things as name calling then I do say, this must be a rather terrible place.”

They ignored her, but the older man had evidently noticed Edward, still asleep somehow.

“What are we to do with him,” the man asked.

The girl, Minia, stood for a moment, thinking, then smiled. I didn’t like that smile.

“Kill him, and take whatever he has on him.”

I was glad at the moment that I’d kept my sword, and I threw myself in front of Edward’s bed, sword pointed threateningly at the younger man, who’d moved forward to carry out the girls orders.

“You won’t,” I spat angrily. The girl drew a small blade from a sheath at her side.

“I swear to the gods, if you don’t move from the way I will kill you as well.”

Nevertheless, I disregarded the threat and stayed where I was.

The girl sheathed her sword, and rather unexpectedly, dropped her resolve and retracted her orders. “Very well then Celo, let him live.” She looked to the older man, and snapped her fingers “Pick him up. You’ll be carrying him then.”

She walked out of the cabin, and we all followed, Captain Ponius and I rather reluctantly. This wasn’t for us, and maybe these people would be able to help Edward once we explained our situation.

“It’s a two hour journey back to camp,” the girl yelled back at Ponius and I as we followed several feet behind her across the shore.

Posted by: mplantinga May 30 2006, 05:39 PM

Interesting developments; it doesn't seem like their situation has really improved all that much. I do hope their new "friends" turn out to be more helpful than their companions on the boat.

Posted by: treydog May 31 2006, 04:20 PM

New twists and turns here- they need to be careful with those "nobles." (I assume they are of the nobility- who else so casually takes over and orders someone killed because they are "inconvenient"?)

You continue to please the reader with excellent descriptions and complex interactions among the characters.

Posted by: gamer10 Jun 6 2006, 04:10 AM

Camp indeed. . .

A very large manor it was, I noticed when we came within viewing distance of it. We were still quite a ways back from it.

“Miss,” the older man said, and he motioned towards Captain Ponius and me.

“Oh, yes, that’s right. They’ll have to wait outside while I fetch father. Can’t have them inside, can we?”

With that, Minia trotted off, briskly, and made her way inside the manor. I looked to Ponius, “Well this is just splendid, isn’t it?” I asked derisively.

“Shut-up.” She retorted, crossing her arms.

Several minutes later Minia exited the building, walking proudly, and beside her strode a tall, built man. Well dressed, and extremely well groomed, but obviously middle-aged.

He looked to Captain Ponius, probably assuming her to be my mother or something of the sort, which would be rather absurd for we looked little alike. The man ignored me and made his way to Ponius.

“Mind telling me what you were doing trespassing?”

Captain Ponius raised her head proudly; arms still crossed, and took a few steps towards the man. “Was I trespassing?” She asked, and I had to turn away to avoid being caught smiling, for what would have been perceived as no reason at all.

She was putting on a show, moving in such a way – I couldn’t help but snicker quietly.

“Yes,” the man didn’t seem phased, in fact his tone was more imposing than it had been when he’d spoken before, “And you decided to let your client sleep in the bed there, my servant’s bed.”

I caught on real quick, and I turned around, sputtering fiercely, “We are not prostitutes, you cheeky old man.” I glared at Minia, whose conceited smile disappeared quickly.

Surprised at my audacity, he was silent for a few moments. “Then, my dearest little girl, may I inquire as to what were you doing in my servant’s cabin?”

“We were only sleeping.” I spat, no less than furious.

“Indeed,” the man said skeptically, and then he nodded. “Celo, find them a place to sleep in the manor. Minia, I believe your mother is waiting for you, you know you weren’t supposed to have accompanied the men.”

Minia stomped off, and I did not stare after her, her attitude made me sick. Celo led us towards the manor and into its front doors.

Inside, it was absolutely beautiful, not that the outside was drab to begin with.

The rug near the entranceway was exquisite, of some strange exotic creature. Two stairways went up either side of the manor, the walls lined with candle holders, which upon inspection, appeared to be gold-

“Like it, eh?”

I turned to look at Celo. “It’s very nice, yes.”

He nodded, “The candle holders are mine. I found them in a tomb.”

I didn’t ask whose, though I was curious. Instead, I let him lead me up one of the stairways.

We passed several rooms, and Celo looked in each one before we came to one that he found to be suitable for my occupation.

“This will be yours, it should be just fine, I have a feeling father doesn’t intend to let you stay long.”

He pushed me in and closed the door, as I reached forth my hand and opened my mouth to inquire as to what he meant by that statement. I let my arm drop to my side, and stared around the room, disheartened.

“Aw . . darn it.”

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

Most of my updates are created in a time span of 45 minutes, just before I sleep. This one however, took me awhile because I was lazy and didn't pay much attention to it. I have now decided that I will try to update more often than I have been, since I realize its been what - half a year since I started this fanfic, and I plan to wrap it up by mid-August (for a reason I'm sure most of you are familiar with). I've already started on another update, and I plan to post it tommorrow. <---- I hate that word, I always forget how to spell it.

-Gamer10

Posted by: treydog Jun 6 2006, 02:49 PM

Another interesting update- I hope Edward will be alright, though. Although I understand your goal of finishing by a deadline, please let the story carry you where it will... Easy for me to say, considering I have been through 3 jobs since I started Trey

Anyway, I love your descriptions and your feel for the characters.

Posted by: gamer10 Jun 6 2006, 10:37 PM

I sat on the bed, staring out the window, thinking.

“Luna.”

It looked nice outside, the wind was blowing gently, and the sun was shining-

“Luna!”

“Oh for heaven’ sake Luna, don’t kill me.”

I stood up, off from where I’d pinned Captain Ponius to the ground, then I sheathed my sword.

“I’ve been speaking with the man of the house,” she chuckled, and I could tell she was feeling just a bit better than I, “I think he’s going to let us stay until Edward is all better – from whatever.”

“Yes, I do hope he hurries up and-“ I stopped, Ponius wasn’t listening to me. She was looking out the window.

“Luna, get on the floor now-“ I didn’t move, and she tackled me.

A rock flew through the window, shattering it and sending fragments of glass flying about. I heard voices from outside.

“Oh yeah, try explaining that one to father.”

“You’re the one who wanted to see how far I could throw it.”

“Always trying to pin the blame on me, eh, Celo.”

It was Minia and Celo. What the hell were they doing?

Captain Ponius stood up, pulling me with her. “Well, you certainly won’t be sleeping her tonight.”

She led me to the door, but it opened before we got there, and Celo came flying in.

“Hey, watch it!” I cried out as I tumbled backward, and Celo fell atop me.

It was several seconds later when I took the initiative to talk, “Uh – I’d really appreciate it if you sort of – yeah, got off me.”

Celo stood up, rubbing his neck though no harm had come to it, obviously embarrassed. I was slightly discomfited by the grins on both the Captain’s and Minia’s faces. “Well, sorry miss, that was awfully awkward- I’m sorry.”

I ignored him, and walked out of the room with a self-righteous smile on my face, Ponius following. I could hear the faint sound of Celo swearing angrily behind us as we made our way down the stairway.

“That was a really nice move that boy pulled up there.”

“No, it wasn’t.”

“Ah, here we are, the dining area.”

Indeed we had reached the dining area, and rather striking smells, some good, some terrible, were wafting out from the kitchen.

“Hungry, Luna?”

Posted by: gamer10 Jul 11 2006, 05:29 AM

Here is the foundation for the fourth chapter. Sorry for not updating for such a long time, I’ll try to update more often than this.

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

The window; frost covering the glass and hindering the view of the snowy landscape outside, was an expansive portion of the wall, and could be considered a fine work of art. Inside, a fire blazed quietly in the hearth; but this has little or no importance to the tale. What is important is what was taking place out – in the street, the darkness.

Outside, a man stumbled through the snow clutching a letter in his hand, his fingers black and frail from frostbite, and his body yielding to the frigid winds. Still, he marched forward, determined and disciplined. His venture, it seemed, was far more important to him than his life itself. Indeed, other would probably agree with his mindset, if they knew.

An armored city sentry approached him, holding a lantern to shun the darkness as he peered quizzically at the old man who was lurching through the wet streets. “Excuse me, what’s a man your age wandering around this time of night?”

The man stumbled into the guard, his body failing as he forced the letter into the sentry’s unoccupied hand. The sentry held the man up, but took a step back, bringing the man with him. “Whoa! Now, you all right sir?”

The old man stretched his legs, his form hunched from age, and whispered enigmatically into the sentry’s ear. His calm voice was hoarse and barely a whisper, “You have stumbled upon a new fate, stranger than what you would ever otherwise have known, young man.”

Then he sagged, his spirit giving away and leaving his body to drop lifelessly into the snow, as young Daripen, still clutching the sealed letter, stared in horror and shock at the space the elderly man had occupied just a moment ago.

It was only the beginning.



Luna awoke with a headache, terrible, but not unusual. Life the last few weeks had seemed splendid compared to the days that precede her stay here. Of course, she owed someone now, a lot more than she would probably ever be able to repay.

She yawned and sat up, stretching her arms as her blanket fell to her waist and she glanced tiredly around the room. Captain Ponius would already be outside, looking out over the water with a look on her face that Luna did not feel comfortable with. What made her less comfortable was that the Captain rose herself exceptionally early to trek several hours back to the ocean.

Luna hadn’t seen it since their rescue. She didn’t want to. She was sick of it, what was more, she was also sick of the recurring dreams she’d had the last few days. Her life might seem splendid on the outside, but she felt as if it were confusing, pointless. Ponius told her she was just going through a stage in life but that only worsened her feeble self-esteem.

Edward had fully recovered, but she didn’t have the heart to tell him that this was where this crazy troupe had to disband, this chaotic journey in search of excitement ended – nor did she have the heart to tell him that he’d have to go home. No doubt he’d be broken.

She had to tell him though, and sometimes it was best to do things as fast and sudden and possible, if it wasn’t better that way for the one on the receiving end it was for the teller.

Twenty minutes later she was dressed and leaving through the front door of the manor, she lacked much of an appetite, but she knew where she’d find Edward – but he wasn’t sitting with his back to the manor wall reading as he’d been the last week. He must’ve been feeling energized this morning- and gone by himself for a while or something.

Or something was probably the case.

She wandered the halls of the upper floor of the manor, bringing herself to stand in front his room; the door was shut and probably locked. She raised her hand to knock, but as she pushed her closed fist against the door it opened gradually, and left a crack wide enough for her to peer in. She was glad for this, because if he just happened to be sleeping still, she didn’t want to wake him for what she was going to tell him.

But she’d rather he’d been sleeping.

Someone was giggling, a girl – she froze as her eyes gazed upon a scene that burned her compassion for Edward as if it was a dry forest on a scorching day – she held back the sudden sob that caught in her throat and looked down, away from the two of them.

As she hurried backward out of the room, she tripped over herself and fell backward. Landing on her bottom, and struggling to get up while using the railing as a support – Edward had pushed Minia away from him and stood up.

Now she released the cry, and stumbling down the stairs – her legs suddenly weak, she let go – Edward, home, love, and tumbled down as the boy she’d felt a great affection for called out after her. She didn’t hear, because she didn’t want to.

Posted by: The Metal Mallet Jul 11 2006, 10:13 PM

Yay! A post from this wonderful Fic!

I really admire the use of emotion throughout each post, the characters are personified fantastically.

I do hope Edward clears things up with Luna though, there has to be a reasonable explanation.... right?

Posted by: jack cloudy Jul 12 2006, 02:37 PM

Oops, bad timing. Maybe he's got a good excuse, maybe not. Who knows?

Posted by: minque Jul 12 2006, 09:51 PM

Ah yes....Luna! Very good as always gamer! Keep it coming please!

Posted by: gamer10 Jan 6 2007, 08:01 AM

I'm terribly sorry to everyone for not being able to keep up with my promises, but life's been chaotic, and I haven't had the time. I've tried my hand at managing multiple projects, but to no avail. I've finally found time to update this, and with Oblivion I can finally create the characters to fit the story.

-Gamer10



I was going to kill him . . . if I could get up.

It seemed only a moment later that I awoke, though I knew that hours had passsed. As my memory returned to me my anger flared, but I dared not open my eyes, for my wrath at this point would be weak, and my vengeance ruined. I must wait until I recover, and until then appear weak, then I will get my revenge on him . . .

It was the next morning that I opened my eyes, but the world was a blurry mess. I had only a small recollection of what'd occured the night before. I remembered the incident that caused my injury, to body and soul, but I remembered not what I'd been thinking only hours ago.

A hand was upon my arm in a moment, "Luna?"

I frowned, and the frown turned to a snare. "Hands off." I spat out, my head but a mass of dull pain as it raced.

"Shhh . . now, rest. You were badly hurt and we sent Edward out to get the nearest healer, near a hundred miles away."

The voice was not Edward's, nor that wretch's, and I relaxed. "My head is ringing," I groaned, "I cannot see."

There was silence for a moment, but then the voice, kind but not familiar, spoke up again. "You are safe, at this time your sight is not my main concern."

But frightened as I was at the prospect of losing my sight that I panicked. "I must see, please, isn't there anything you can do?"

I could see only faint outlines, and I knew that the woman was sitting next to me on a chair. She was tall, but not heavyset.

"My dear, please calm yourself-" At that moment the door to wherever I was, I assumed it to be my allotted room, burst open.

"The healer's here, she'll be up in a minute.

I know that voice.

"You!" I shrieked, and before I knew it I was up. "You've been nothing but a burden to me ever since we met." As I placed my feet on the ground pain shot through my body, intensifying my splitting headache.

I collapsed, fully concious but unable to move. There I began to whimper, and what was just a sniffle soon turned to a sob, but Edward took just a few strides and was at my side.

I struggled mightily, though I did not intend to impede my own recovery, I hoped to do what little harm I could to the beast who'd betrayed me.

But as I strugged I realised that the hands of a young man were replaced with the hands of a much gentler sort.

"Move aside boy, you're going to make it worse."

The healer.

I was picked up and placed back onto my cot, and there I lay as the healer discussed my condition with the woman who'd tended me throughout the night.

I wasn't watching either of them, but instead the figure of Edward. His head was hung, but I could not read the expression on his face, for my eyes remained blurred.

"Leave the room, boy." The healer snapped at Edward. Apparently she now knew the consequences surroudning my injury.

I muttered something to the heal, and was immediately surprised at myself.

"What's that?" She asked.

"His name is Edward." I repeated.

"I don't care what his name is, he'd better leave the room. You must undressed so that the extent of your injury can be seen."

Edward left.

Posted by: The Metal Mallet Jan 6 2007, 04:45 PM

I'm glad to hear of the resurrection of this story, gamer10. I always enjoyed reading about these characters.

This was a well written return to the forums if you ask me. Good work!

Posted by: jack cloudy Jan 6 2007, 04:53 PM

A good return indeed. I hope that her drop down the stairs wasn't too bad though it seems that she's taken a nasty hit on her head which might explain the blurred vision.