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Chorrol.com _ Fan Fiction _ Lothran the Nordic Dunmer

Posted by: mirocu Oct 13 2015, 02:27 PM

Hello and welcome! smile.gif

First of all I would like to point out that this is not a fanfic in any traditional sense. I merely write this down for myself as a reminder of what Lothran and I have been through. I'm not detailing too much or adding dialogue.
If anyone would like to comment here that's very much ok, I welcome it. Though again this is mostly for myself and obviously Lothran, who I feel deserves some recognition other than in the Update thread. So, without further ado...


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

http://i.imgur.com/AMG4fED.jpg (at the very start of our journey)
http://i.imgur.com/4pNQ0Yq.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/3lhofe9.png

http://bethesdaocg.wikia.com/wiki/Lothran


When Lothran and I first met in February 2007, he rigorously followed quest after quest and did very little of the free exploration and collecting he's been doing for the last few years. But he was happy, we both were. By doing them we learned how Cyrodiil worked and we got to know many people through those quests. Seeking Your Roots was one of the very first quests we got after having picked up a Nirnroot though oddly enough, Sinderion was one of the last people we got to know. So many other things got in the way, like Unfriendly Competition, Imperial Corruption and the Arena questline. We had so much to see, so much to do and so many people to talk to and at times it felt overwhelming, but in a good way.
In the beginning Lothran felt so weak that at one point he booked a room at The Foaming Flask and focused on summoning a skeleton to fight so he could get some practice. It was intense but quite fun, and at one of those training sessions Audens Avidius comes barging in with a dagger. Needless to say he didn't last long. After all, Lothran was already in full combat gear with sword in hand. Audens was just another sparring partner.

It was a very, very interesting time for both of us and I can sometimes miss that. But it's all in the initial experience, it can never be duplicated 100% by creating a new character and I don't intend to either. It happened then and there and I am happy with those memories. By re-living them I think they would be tainted and I don't want that. I prefer to just move on.

Now years later, Lothran never goes on official quests anymore. He makes up his own though, like collecting one shield and cuirass of every town, and he may do the occasional follow-up on an old quest, but other than that the official quests are all long gone. He hasn't got the time for them anyway. He has so many places and people to re-visit and we cannot forget his duties up in Bruma. Neither of us can imagine a winter coming and going without him being there. It's his home, plain and simple. And he takes great pride in being one of the guards protecting Bruma even if times are calm and no real threat is around. He still wants to help out once in awhile by pulling graveyard shifts by the North gate which usually only has one guard.

And when spring comes he can't wait to go down to Chorrol. This is a tradition from 2009 (roughly) and at times when I've had him go to the Imperial City to offload first he's murmured, and I could tell it was not what he wanted. So Chorrol it is, you can't change what works and who am I to disregard my own character's wishes?
Lothran usually visits western Cyrodiil before mid-summer and the eastern parts after that. Again, at times I have tried to make him do the opposite but it has felt so wrong to be in Cheydinhal in May instead of Skingrad and Anvil. But it's all good, it all feels new and fresh when we get to those places (provided we do it at the right time) and it doesn't get boring. As I write this we're of course planning for Bruma once again and I am sure it'll feel as good as ever once we get there in late November.




Lothran the Nordic Dunmer's story is far from over!

Posted by: Lopov Oct 13 2015, 05:11 PM

I think you're right - Lohtran definitely deserves more than just being mentioned in the Updates thread. wink.gif

I enjoyed reading about his beginnings and seeing how differently he looked like back then. And just looking at him tells its own tale - Hide of the Savior, for instance, so it's safe to assume that the unicorn in his world is long gone by now.

My favorite part is the one where he was practicing on a summoned skeleton and Avidius barged in, I don't remember reading this one before. That's why I'm looking forward to more such adventures which we don't know yet.

goodjob.gif

Posted by: Acadian Oct 13 2015, 09:42 PM

How fun that Lothran has his own thread now to share some of his thoughts and adventures. I think you are wise that he has a bit of a routine to his travels - that ensures when he gets back to a place it does indeed feel sort of new again because he hasn't been there for a time.

I love how his look has evolved and, as you well know, Buffy simply adores his white hair - especially with snowflakes dancing in it. happy.gif

Posted by: SubRosa Oct 13 2015, 10:33 PM

I can always tell when it's winter, because that is when Lothran migrates to Bruma. smile.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 14 2015, 12:29 PM



Oh, I didn't see this yesterday, I only "see" what comes in my email notices unless I get a nudge. This is a wonderful glimpse into Lothran's life!

Aw, that is so cool that you are still on your first game! I actually did that with my first Maxical too, but then my 360 got the RROD. When I had to start over on the replacement console, doing all those quests again was so fun that I ended up playing and completing 18 more games (including all the aftermath stuff) on the 360; and several more on the PC.

I'm really glad you showed Lothran's early pictures; I hadn't seen those before! This was Awesome!


Posted by: Grits Oct 14 2015, 04:02 PM

We can mark the seasons by following Lothran’s travels. I’m so glad you’ve given him his own thread!

Love the pictures, and now I know where I can always find them. smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 14 2015, 05:47 PM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 13 2015, 06:11 PM) *

I enjoyed reading about his beginnings and seeing how differently he looked like back then. And just looking at him tells its own tale - Hide of the Savior, for instance, so it's safe to assume that the unicorn in his world is long gone by now.

Unfortunately, yeah kvleft.gif He was young at the time and didnīt stop to think that maybe it would be best to leave the beautiful creature alone. Like Buffy with the Border Watch incident, Lothran has his regrets...

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 13 2015, 06:11 PM) *

My favorite part is the one where he was practicing on a summoned skeleton and Avidius barged in, I don't remember reading this one before. That's why I'm looking forward to more such adventures which we don't know yet.

Oh, that happened long before our introduction to the forums so thatīs why I havenīt written about it.

QUOTE(Acadian @ Oct 13 2015, 10:42 PM) *

How fun that Lothran has his own thread now to share some of his thoughts and adventures.

I have thought about making a thread for him in a long time but never really found a good reason to do it. But as I was thinking back I sort of noticed some of the memories fading away and we canīt have that, can we? So I figured the best way to preserve those memories would be in his very own fanfic thread smile.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ Oct 13 2015, 10:42 PM) *

I love how his look has evolved and, as you well know, Buffy simply adores his white hair - especially with snowflakes dancing in it. happy.gif

Yes, I do know of her fascination with his white hair happy.gif There is a good reason as to why the colour changed, I have written about it but I will definitely mention it here too smile.gif

QUOTE(SubRosa @ Oct 13 2015, 11:33 PM) *

I can always tell when it's winter, because that is when Lothran migrates to Bruma. smile.gif

Indeed. A winter without Lothran in Bruma is like a piņa colada without an umbrella biggrin.gif

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 14 2015, 01:29 PM) *

I'm really glad you showed Lothran's early pictures; I hadn't seen those before! This was Awesome!

Thatīs his pre-internet look! biggrin.gif

Iīll probably add more later smile.gif

QUOTE(Grits @ Oct 14 2015, 05:02 PM) *

We can mark the seasons by following Lothran’s travels. I’m so glad you’ve given him his own thread!

He kept pestering me about it and I finally caved biggrin.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 16 2015, 03:16 PM

Lothran's white hair




As years went by and I was still wandering Cyrodiil with my beloved character, I felt his experience grow immensely. Long gone were the days when he was cautious about even showing himself in the Imperial City because he thought he'd get thrown back in jail. Gone were also the days when he sparred with his summoned skeleton in a rented room to gain strength and work on his skills. He was now a Master in many things, not least in the magical arts, and I wanted that to show but how? We both liked his outfit and neither of us wanted to change it so what could we do?

Well, the most visible part on him besides his clothes was of course his long hair. Pretty quick came the decision to change it to white and I got the idea from the end of the first X-Men movie where part of the girl's hair changed to white when she strained herself in the fight using her powers. That was the perfect excuse to a Warlock roaming in Cyrodiil and thus I learned how to make that change without screwing up any skill. While changing the colour of Lothran's hair I also made him a bit chubbier to simulate getting a lower metabolism as part of getting older.
Lothran is of course an elf and thus does not have the human traits I speak of here, but for me it simulated his many years and ever-growing experience and it was important even if not 100% lore accurate.

This all happened when Lothran was in the Mages Guildīs basement in Chorrol but the year escapes me. I can look it up but it requires me to load up an entire different batch of saves and I donīt think itīs relevent enough to warrant that. I can also look through some screenshots and maybe get the date from that. If so Iīll post it in the OP.

Posted by: Acadian Oct 16 2015, 04:00 PM

Aww, I knew what Lothie's white hair represented, but it was wonderful hearing of the wise warlock's experience-based changes again. happy.gif

Posted by: Lopov Oct 16 2015, 05:34 PM

I remember reading about the reason for his hair color change but I didn't recall it until now. I also didn't know about Lothran getting chubbier. laugh.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 17 2015, 03:54 PM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 16 2015, 06:34 PM) *

I also didn't know about Lothran getting chubbier. laugh.gif

Itīs barely noticable, Iīm told.... biggrin.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 17 2015, 04:33 PM



OMG, I just saw the WIKI page! How cool!



Posted by: mirocu Oct 18 2015, 02:52 PM

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 17 2015, 05:33 PM) *

OMG, I just saw the WIKI page! How cool!

Yeah, it was fun making that page and it wasnīt hard at all. I wrote the whole thing right away smile.gif


Thanks to Diamandis who came up with the idea for a wiki about our characters! happy.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 18 2015, 03:10 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Oct 18 2015, 09:52 AM) *

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 17 2015, 05:33 PM) *

OMG, I just saw the WIKI page! How cool!

Yeah, it was fun making that page and it wasnīt hard at all. I wrote the whole thing right away smile.gif


Thanks to Diamandis who came up with the idea for a wiki about our characters! happy.gif



That is really Awesome!



Posted by: Darkness Eternal Oct 18 2015, 06:36 PM

The wiki page is great Mirocu, and so is Lothran's. I confess I am no big fan of dark elves but you made him quite different in a way. Maybe it is the white hair tongue.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 18 2015, 07:10 PM

Thank you! smile.gif

Iīve grown quite fond of Dunmers and elves in general. They are an interesting bunch, I think.

Posted by: mirocu Oct 22 2015, 10:11 AM

The Amulet




Lothranīs approach to the emperorīs request was in the vicinity of "What? I didnīt ask for this assignment" and while he could have done what the emperor had asked him to, too many personal things got in the way. Though not wanting it to fall into the wrong hands he decided to keep it rather than throw it away. As long as he himself had it, albeit he wasnīt its rightful keeper, he knew where it was and could at least honour the emperorīs wish to keep the evil forces at bay as they seemed to need it for what they intended. And seeing as years has went by and no daedra invasion has occured, Iīd say his tactic has been rather successful.


On my level, there are two reasons why Lothran never handed the amulet to Jauffre. One reason is the same as why we didnīt meet Sinderion for so long even though we got his quest very early; we simply got distracted by the sheer amount of things to do, people to talk to etc. This I consider to be the main reason, I actually fully intended to do the MQ at first since I wasnīt used to free-roaming and side-quests. Itīs when I learned about all those things that the MQīs appeal dropped like a rock.
The other reason is because of the artwork on the game box where you could see Kvatch in ruins. Knowing how games work (that by doing something it triggers events) I feared that could happen to Bruma, a town I quickly fell in love with. I didnīt know it was Kvatch that was displayed on the box. By the time I had gotten to know Bruma and its citizens I was dead set on that no matter what I did, Jauffre could not get the amulet. He should have it, but again I feared what would happen if I did let him have it, and so I decided to just ignore it in Lothranīs inventory.

As time went by I understood that giving Jauffre the amulet doesnīt do much, itīs when you start to deal with Martin that triggers events. At least thatīs my understanding, I might be wrong. In any way, after all the time that had passed it just felt wrong to suddenly give it to him. If I should have I should have done it then and there. I did however look up how to unmark it as a quest item so Lothran could drop it. It now resides in his home in Bruma, among his other gems and trinkets. Why I reveal this is simple; the whole town guard keeps a close eye on his home when heīs not there and the reason behind that will come to light in my next post.



Thanks for reading happy.gif


Posted by: Acadian Oct 22 2015, 02:52 PM

Well, the wise warlock has a pretty sound point - he hung on to the amulet and there was no daedric invasion - aside from that bit of nastiness at Kvatch. Besides, I've heard that if you give the amulet to Jeffrey (lol) that he simply loses it anyway. Much safer with dear Lothie methinks! tongue.gif

Posted by: SubRosa Oct 22 2015, 06:49 PM

I love the idea of Lothran wearing a tracksuit and showing off his Amulet of Kings bling like Run-DMC! biggrin.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 23 2015, 08:01 AM

QUOTE(SubRosa @ Oct 22 2015, 07:49 PM) *

I love the idea of Lothran wearing a tracksuit and showing off his Amulet of Kings bling like Run-DMC! biggrin.gif

rollinglaugh.gif rollinglaugh.gif

-Yo, yo! Where my bling at!? biggrin.gif

Posted by: Lopov Oct 23 2015, 01:43 PM

You should have sent the latest story to Bethesda, telling them that to prevent the Daedric invasion the quest after the tutorial should tell you to keep the Amulet at all times, and everything'll be fine, instead of directing us to Jauffre and causing oblivion.. bigsmile.gif Lothran is the best proof for that. I liked the part where you mention that guards keep a close eye on Lothran's quarters when he's gone.

Posted by: mALX Oct 23 2015, 11:01 PM


I think the Kvatch gate is open right from the start of the game, so if you pass it on your way toward Anvil regardless of anything you have or haven't done in the game, the little guy will run out to you and yell about the Daedra and Oblivion gate destroying K'vatch.

I normally wait until level 17 before I go near Kvatch for that reason; and yes - I also keep the Amulet of Kings until I am ready to do the main quest; then turn it in.

If I'm not mistaken, taking Martin to Weynon Priory triggers the attack there, and taking Martin to Cloud Ruler Temple triggers the opening of the random Oblivion gates all across Cyrodiil.






Posted by: mirocu Oct 24 2015, 08:05 AM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 23 2015, 02:43 PM) *

You should have sent the latest story to Bethesda, telling them that to prevent the Daedric invasion the quest after the tutorial should tell you to keep the Amulet at all times, and everything'll be fine, instead of directing us to Jauffre and causing oblivion.. bigsmile.gif

I think what they should have done is put the invasion on a timer, though Iīm glad they didnīt tongue.gif

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 24 2015, 12:01 AM) *

If I'm not mistaken, taking Martin to Weynon Priory triggers the attack there, and taking Martin to Cloud Ruler Temple triggers the opening of the random Oblivion gates all across Cyrodiil.

Yeah, thatīs my understanding too. Not that it matters now, though. After all, the emperor did give Lothran the amulet which shows great trust, and Lothran isnīt one to let someone like that down biggrin.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 24 2015, 01:41 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Oct 24 2015, 03:05 AM) *

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 23 2015, 02:43 PM) *

You should have sent the latest story to Bethesda, telling them that to prevent the Daedric invasion the quest after the tutorial should tell you to keep the Amulet at all times, and everything'll be fine, instead of directing us to Jauffre and causing oblivion.. bigsmile.gif

I think what they should have done is put the invasion on a timer, though Iīm glad they didnīt tongue.gif

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 24 2015, 12:01 AM) *

If I'm not mistaken, taking Martin to Weynon Priory triggers the attack there, and taking Martin to Cloud Ruler Temple triggers the opening of the random Oblivion gates all across Cyrodiil.

Yeah, thatīs my understanding too. Not that it matters now, though. After all, the emperor did give Lothran the amulet which shows great trust, and Lothran isnīt one to let someone like that down biggrin.gif



Yeah, but I love those random oblivion gates opening up, I just don't want to do the main quest till level 17 (for the Transcendent Sigil Stones). And when I used to open up the gates early on and then wait to level 17 to tackle them, people were being found dead all over Cyrodiil. That Leyawiin Count's wife; her horse; some young guy in Water's Edge, Mazoga, etc - and many more, all dead in the road. It was awful, you couldn't walk anywhere without the sky reddening. It was frightening to play - genuinely felt like there was a crisis in Cyrodiill.

Well actually, that was the most real game ever, but finding all those people dead was awful - especially Mazoga and that poor paint horse. So I started hanging on to the Amulet and then starting the crisis when I was ready to tackle it.

(And of course that meant holding off doing that Malacath quest till then, since when those Bleak Mine Guards stalk me I want to be able to run them through Oblivion gates and make them fight Daedra, lol).





Posted by: ghastley Oct 24 2015, 05:04 PM

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 24 2015, 08:41 AM) *

..., people were being found dead all over Cyrodiil. That Leyawiin Count's wife; ...

You've almost persuaded me that's a good idea! tongue.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 24 2015, 05:13 PM

QUOTE(ghastley @ Oct 24 2015, 12:04 PM) *

QUOTE(mALX @ Oct 24 2015, 08:41 AM) *

..., people were being found dead all over Cyrodiil. That Leyawiin Count's wife; ...

You've almost persuaded me that's a good idea! tongue.gif



laugh.gif Just to see the Countess dead? rollinglaugh.gif




Posted by: mirocu Oct 30 2015, 10:08 AM

How Lothran became a guard




As many already know, Lothran is an honorary guard of Bruma who during the coldest parts of the winter helps out patrolling the town and protecting the North gate. But how did he actually become a guard, and an honorary to boot?

The answer can be found when Lothran first came to Bruma in 2007 in search of someone named Ongar the World-Weary who apparently could help him get rid of "hot" merchandise other merchants wouldnīt touch. Thatīs why Bruma was the first town Lothran visited after leaving the Imperial City; he needed Ongar, and he needed the Septims he could give him.

Upon spending a little time in Bruma, Lothran was greeted by a representative of the castle who gave him some money as a sign of good will and asked the Dunmer to follow him back to the castle to see the Countess. After such a handsome gift Lothran couldnīt say no, and off they went to see Narina Carvain. Apparently she needed someone to bring her a lost artifact from somewhere in the cold mountains very close to the Skyrim border. Lothran was at this time still not the most confident fighter and he was far away from being a Warlock, but he accepted the task. He loved the sense of adventure and simply couldnīt resist the prospect suggested to him. Plus, he would get even more Septims with which he planned to buy a house. So off he went, deep into the cold mountains to look for the artifact lost in history..

It was indeed an adventure traveling into Pale Pass and the old ruin. I can still get the same feeling now as I got back then just thinking about it. Lothran and I always travel back there when itīs close to Christmas, and we spend a few days on site hunting ogres and reminisce happy.gif

Lothran found the artifact deep within the old ruin and he was able to pick it up when the ghost commander holding it vanished after seeing the orders to retreat, and the ruin was finally quiet after all that time. When Lothran got back to Bruma and the Countess she was overjoyed to add the artifact to her Ayleid collection. She was in fact so grateful she appointed Lothran an Honorary Guard of the Town of Bruma for his efforts! He was a bit confused first what that meant and what he was supposed to do, but apparently it didnīt really mean anything. He didnīt have to do anything if he didnīt want to, but the title gave him the opportunity if he wanted.

At first Lothran didnīt do much with his "title". He roamed the lands and explored as much as he could. But eventually when he had spent a few winters in Bruma he felt like it was time to make a contribution to the town he loved so much, and so he donned the official Bruma Guard armour and began to patrol the town. He even has his own quarters in the guard barracks where he keeps his armour and weapon, so he has very much settled into his role now. Not to mention the town, as 2007 was also the year when he bought his house there, his first house to be exact. He really didnīt have to think twice about it and had already made up his mind to buy it when the steward approached him with the gift and the request to go see the Countess.
Lothran has many friends within the Bruma guard and as he help them, they are glad to help him by keeping an eye on his house when heīs not there.



The Dunmer has indeed come a long way. Thanks for reading!


http://i.imgur.com/tIOy0u7.png
http://i.imgur.com/H7rpfR2.png
http://i.imgur.com/QlEcO6e.png
http://i.imgur.com/NeFcQZT.png

Posted by: Lopov Oct 30 2015, 01:58 PM

Becoming an honorary guard of Bruma is nice continuation of Lothran's adventures in Pale Pass.

The only Dunmer guard in Cyrodiil looks good in his Bruma armor and looks like that Imperials like him, judging by smiles on their faces. Nice to see him in his cabin, warmed by the fireplace.

Posted by: ghastley Oct 30 2015, 02:22 PM

But does being an honorary guard allow him to say "Stop right there, criminal scum!" ?

When I was making my Falkreath town for the mods, I wanted Nord guards, but found that only Imperials could say the lines, so Falkreath got Imperial guards too. Burd's a Nord, but he only gets Captain lines, not guard ones.

Posted by: mirocu Oct 30 2015, 04:43 PM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 30 2015, 01:58 PM) *

Becoming an honorary guard of Bruma is nice continuation of Lothran's adventures in Pale Pass.

I think so too smile.gif

QUOTE(ghastley @ Oct 30 2015, 02:22 PM) *

But does being an honorary guard allow him to say "Stop right there, criminal scum!" ?

Pretty sure he has to convert to Imperial first, eh? laugh.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 30 2015, 05:00 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Oct 30 2015, 11:43 AM) *

QUOTE(Lopov @ Oct 30 2015, 01:58 PM) *

Becoming an honorary guard of Bruma is nice continuation of Lothran's adventures in Pale Pass.

I think so too smile.gif

QUOTE(ghastley @ Oct 30 2015, 02:22 PM) *

But does being an honorary guard allow him to say "Stop right there, criminal scum!" ?

Pretty sure he has to convert to Imperial first, eh? laugh.gif



Not necessarily. If you use a voice mod on Lothran, you can use a BSA Browser to open up Bethesda's Imperial Male voice files, find the "Halt right there, Criminal Scum!" ones and pull them out. Place them in various suitable trigger files (like "Combat Start" - so if someone attacks him he would yell it out, etc). - and Voila, Lothran is saying it.

It may not fit in with his other voiced sayings though, laugh.gif








Posted by: mirocu Oct 30 2015, 05:22 PM

I donīt think heīd be too happy speaking in tounges so I better not do that laugh.gif

Posted by: mALX Oct 30 2015, 06:15 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Oct 30 2015, 12:22 PM) *

I donīt think heīd be too happy speaking in tounges so I better not do that laugh.gif



Imperial tongues? laugh.gif




Posted by: Acadian Oct 30 2015, 06:54 PM

What a wonderfully nostalgic recount of how Lothie became an honorary guard! He certainly earned the title! And some great pictures in Bruma. I remember how worried Buffy was about first visiting the Nordic elf in Bruma - until she learned that his fireplace had been fixed! tongue.gif

Posted by: mirocu Oct 30 2015, 10:01 PM

And that he had bear pelts to lend out laugh.gif



Posted by: Grits Nov 4 2015, 02:27 AM


How fun to finally learn how Lothran became an honorary guard of Bruma. I never knew!

Great pics of Lothran in his northern home. My favorite is the one where he’s talking to Regner. Thank you for sharing these screens and Lothran’s story. smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Nov 4 2015, 08:30 AM

Thanks yourself for reading, Grits happy.gif

Posted by: mirocu Nov 6 2015, 10:07 AM

The Downsizing



Since the beginning Lothran has picked up everything heīs found, as an opportunist he thought it could either be sold or even used so he didnīt want to leave anything behind. This led to his inventory clogging up with many weapons, shields and potions. He also enjoyed reading and always carried the town guide books with him.

Thing was though, around 2008 he was quite wealthy and didnīt need to collect lots of things to sell, he had the weapons he wanted to use and he knew the books by heart, but he was still carrying everything with him. His encumbarance was well over 100 at all times and for no reason, really. He also began to dislike being so rich. He was an elf of the people, not a noble or businessman, and this over-filled gold pouch was actually more of a burden than help.

Then one sunny day he was walking the streets of Anvil when he came upon a crate by a house. He stopped, looked at it, and then he was rushed with a feeling of just wanting to get rid of everything. And thus he took most of his stuff and put it in that crate; weapons, armours, books, repair hammers, several hundred lockpicks etc. Then he went to Morvynīs Peacemakers and bought the most expensive weapon he had, then sold it back to him. Then bought it again, and sold it. After repeating this a few times he then left the shop with the weapon and put it in the same crate as all the other stuff and man, did he feel lighter! smile.gif


Since then Lothranīs encumbarance has been about 30 instead of 160. He no longer carries more weapons than he uses, no excess armour, no guide books, no repair hammers and he only has like 20 lockpicks instead of 300. His gold pieces no longer amounts to over 200.000 but a mere 5000 or thereabout. It can rise to 10.000 on occasion.



Gamerīs note: I didnīt want an über rich character that never needed to collect more gold and that had everything he needed with him all the time, and thus this had to be done. I wanted him to get closer to who he was in the beginning; someone who needed to go look for things, someone who needed adventures. And evenly important, someone who wasnīt stinking rich. That really didnīt suit him at all.

I have never regretted doing this and I think, honestly, that Lothran is pretty happy too wink.gif

Posted by: Acadian Nov 6 2015, 09:34 PM

I agree with Lothran. It seems more fun to conveniently 'lose' things and remain perpetually of modest means. And it is wonderfully liberating to clear a dungeon and come out with no more than you went in with except maybe a couple more gold coins and a couple less arrows. smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Nov 7 2015, 09:31 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Nov 6 2015, 09:34 PM) *

it is wonderfully liberating to clear a dungeon and come out with no more than you went in with except maybe a couple more gold coins and a couple less arrows. smile.gif

Well, he does want to come out with a few Flawless gems, but thatīs about it biggrin.gif

Itīs also fun having the need to sometimes collect stuff to sell in order to finance a new spell or just reload an enchanted item.

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Nov 12 2015, 04:44 PM

Great story on how he became a guard of Bruma(uh, the cold, the ice, the grime and soot). For a Dunmer, I can imagine that'd be a terrible place to be. But since Lothran is a Nordic Dunmer, that's a whole different story.

QUOTE
I didnīt want an über rich character that never needed to collect more gold and that had everything he needed with him all the time, and thus this had to be done. I wanted him to get closer to who he was in the beginning; someone who needed to go look for things, someone who needed adventures. And evenly important, someone who wasnīt stinking rich. That really didnīt suit him at all.


Ah. This is very nice. He has an adventurer's heart and not the greed smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Nov 13 2015, 09:54 AM

Thanks, DE smile.gif Yeah, Lothran is about adventuring, not collecting wealth. About the cold, I think he puts up with it because I want him to, and because I gave him a full fur outfit enchanted to resist frost.. biggrin.gif

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

The Daedra




All the daedric shrines in Cyrodiil have had a visit from Lothran. And whatever they asked him to do he did it without too much critical thought. I blame this on his youth and inexperience, and mine... wink.gif

Now to be fair, some daedra are not as bad as others. Take Azura for instance. She honoured her followers so much that she saw their corruption into vampirism as such a disgrace sheīd rather have them killed than alive in their new, deformed state. Lothran agreed to help her because, well, vampires.. Though he was rather pleased with the candles she put up afterwards in their memory and he often revisits her shrine when heīs in the mountains during the winters.

He was also ok with Sanguineīs task of disrupting the formal dinner party in Leyawiinīs castle. No one got hurt, just a little embarrassed laugh.gif In fact Lothran was ok with most tasks the daedra put on him, but there was one where he simply walked away. When learning what Molag Bal wanted him to do he was quite taken aback. Mess with the fragile mind of a man "just because"? No way. So he left and never has he visited that shrine again. He also refused to do what Sheogorath and Mephala asked of him.

Of all the tasks he did, Lothran does have one regret. He wishes he hadnīt done what Hircine asked him to do. Sure, the reward was fine and he uses it every day, but it wasnīt worth it when thinking about it. That beautiful creature should have been left alone instead of falling victim to the biddings of a voice from a shrine. Thatīs one reason Lothran has Saviourīs Hide on him all the time; to never forget..


So out of the daedric shrines in Cyrodiil Lothran has done what everyone has asked him to except Molag Bal, Sheogorath, Mephala, Namira and of course Hermaeus Mora who he canīt even talk to. I should mention that out of the two options from Clavicus Vile he got the mask. It can now be found in a chest in Bruma along with every item he recieved from the daedra.


Iīm not sure and I have to look this up, but I think Hircine was the first one Lothran visited and Nocturnal the last. I remember Nocturnal because when Lothran got the Skeleton Key it went straight to the collection since at this time he really did not need it.


Thanks for reading! smile.gif


http://i.imgur.com/E9pcwvq.jpg

Posted by: Acadian Nov 13 2015, 08:27 PM

Wonderful insights into Lothie's history with 'The Sixteen Plus One'. Buffy only completed a handful of them, walked away from several and never even looked into a few more. She knows exactly what you mean about 'youth and inexperience', as she has never forgiven herself for the damage she did to the small village of Borderwatch. As Kud-Ei wisely says, "Good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from bad judgment.

Now that said, I imagine remembering Sanguine's quest brings a smile to both elves' faces. tongue.gif

Posted by: ghastley Nov 13 2015, 08:49 PM

I disliked Hircine's enough to http://ghastley.org/Oblivion/Docs/Hircines_Virgin.html, and provide another way to get the horn without harming its owner. It actually makes it quite a bit harder, as keeping the Unicorn non-aggressive isn't easy.

I didn't change Sanguine's, but I did add another that he gets involved in.

I agree with Lothran about all the others. Did he read http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Oblivion:Worn,_Faded_Note on the "boss" vampire when he did Azura's? It would have told him that it's what they wanted, too.

Posted by: mALX Nov 13 2015, 09:34 PM

QUOTE(ghastley @ Nov 13 2015, 02:49 PM) *

I disliked Hircine's enough to http://ghastley.org/Oblivion/Docs/Hircines_Virgin.html, and provide another way to get the horn without harming its owner. It actually makes it quite a bit harder, as keeping the Unicorn non-aggressive isn't easy.



OMG, what an Awesome fun quest you made out of that awful Hircine quest !!!!!!!! I LOVE it !!!!!!





Posted by: mirocu Nov 13 2015, 09:57 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Nov 13 2015, 08:27 PM) *

Wonderful insights into Lothie's history with 'The Sixteen Plus One'.

I have to admit Iīm not quite sure what you mean by that... embarrased.gif

QUOTE(ghastley @ Nov 13 2015, 08:49 PM) *

I disliked Hircine's enough to http://ghastley.org/Oblivion/Docs/Hircines_Virgin.html, and provide another way to get the horn without harming its owner. It actually makes it quite a bit harder, as keeping the Unicorn non-aggressive isn't easy.

I agree with mALX; such an awesome alternative way to get the horn! I wonder why Bethesda didnīt make it in the first place...? laugh.gif

QUOTE(ghastley @ Nov 13 2015, 08:49 PM) *

I agree with Lothran about all the others. Did he read http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Oblivion:Worn,_Faded_Note on the "boss" vampire when he did Azura's? It would have told him that it's what they wanted, too.

Yeah, he did. Itīs hard to think that someone who fights you actually wants you to kill them, but I guess sometimes thatīs the case.. kvleft.gif

Posted by: ghastley Nov 13 2015, 10:03 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Nov 13 2015, 03:57 PM) *

Yeah, he did. Itīs hard to think that someone who fights you actually wants you to kill them, but I guess sometimes thatīs the case.. kvleft.gif

Skyrim has a quest where you come across an Old Orc who's out hunting Sabre Cats in the hope of a "good death". You can fight him and make him die happy, but there's little reward for the player unless you have http://chorrol.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=5689

Posted by: Acadian Nov 13 2015, 10:06 PM

Sorry, mirocu. The 'Sixteen Plus One' is a lore reference that teases/parallels the 'Eight Plus One' (Nine Divines inlcuding Talos). The Sixteen are the primary Deadra Lords and the 'Plus One' is Jyggalag.

Posted by: mALX Nov 13 2015, 11:15 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Nov 13 2015, 03:57 PM) *

Itīs hard to think that someone who fights you actually wants you to kill them, but I guess sometimes thatīs the case.. kvleft.gif


I think the vampirism caused them to attack, they could not stop that part of them from the things it did; which is why they prayed for death so they could stop doing something they hated but couldn't stop without death stopping them.



Posted by: mirocu Nov 13 2015, 11:18 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Nov 13 2015, 10:06 PM) *

Sorry, mirocu. The 'Sixteen Plus One' is a lore reference that teases/parallels the 'Eight Plus One' (Nine Divines inlcuding Talos). The Sixteen are the primary Deadra Lords and the 'Plus One' is Jyggalag.

That was too complex for me to figure out on my own rollinglaugh.gif

QUOTE(mALX @ Nov 13 2015, 11:15 PM) *

QUOTE(mirocu @ Nov 13 2015, 03:57 PM) *

Itīs hard to think that someone who fights you actually wants you to kill them, but I guess sometimes thatīs the case.. kvleft.gif


I think the vampirism caused them to attack, they could not stop that part of them from the things it did; which is why they prayed for death so they could stop doing something they hated but couldn't stop without death stopping them.

Yeah, that makes sense. They wanted to stop doing it but couldnīt which is why Iīm glad Lothran helped them out smile.gif

Posted by: mALX Nov 13 2015, 11:26 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Nov 13 2015, 05:18 PM) *

QUOTE(Acadian @ Nov 13 2015, 10:06 PM) *

Sorry, mirocu. The 'Sixteen Plus One' is a lore reference that teases/parallels the 'Eight Plus One' (Nine Divines inlcuding Talos). The Sixteen are the primary Deadra Lords and the 'Plus One' is Jyggalag.

That was too complex for me to figure out on my own rollinglaugh.gif

QUOTE(mALX @ Nov 13 2015, 11:15 PM) *

QUOTE(mirocu @ Nov 13 2015, 03:57 PM) *

Itīs hard to think that someone who fights you actually wants you to kill them, but I guess sometimes thatīs the case.. kvleft.gif


I think the vampirism caused them to attack, they could not stop that part of them from the things it did; which is why they prayed for death so they could stop doing something they hated but couldn't stop without death stopping them.

Yeah, that makes sense. They wanted to stop doing it but couldnīt which is why Iīm glad Lothran helped them out smile.gif



Yeah, I think that is why they sealed themselves in there, so they couldn't attack anyone anymore; but when people found their way in the vampire beast within came to life smelling blood and attacked. They prayed for whoever came to be stronger than the monsters they had become, at least that is how I always saw it on that quest.



Posted by: Lopov Nov 15 2015, 11:28 AM

Time to catch up on Lothran...

Nice that he resorted to the Magic of Respawning by putting a lot of his stuff in the crate, so it simply vanished with time, I mean, it was probably taken by other travelers. I do think as well that it's more eemirsive to play with only those items that your character needs instead of carrying entire assortment of weapons and outfits all the time.

It's a shame that he killed the Unicorn but honestly I'm glad you didn't reload your game or resurrect the Unicorn. It makes more sense this way and in a way it made Lothran a different, maybe a better person. Wearing the Savior's Hide to remind him of the mistake is a nice touch.

I wondered how he handled the Sanguine's Quest and evaded the authorities afterwards. bigsmile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Nov 15 2015, 11:44 AM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Nov 15 2015, 11:28 AM) *

Time to catch up on Lothran...

Nice that he resorted to the Magic of Respawning by putting a lot of his stuff in the crate, so it simply vanished with time, I mean, it was probably taken by other travelers. I do think as well that it's more eemirsive to play with only those items that your character needs instead of carrying entire assortment of weapons and outfits all the time.

I very much agree. Even now he does tend to carry more than one would be able to, at least sometimes when he dungeon dives, but I let that slip through. After all, we have Feather magics as well, right? wink.gif

QUOTE(Lopov @ Nov 15 2015, 11:28 AM) *

It's a shame that he killed the Unicorn but honestly I'm glad you didn't reload your game or resurrect the Unicorn. It makes more sense this way and in a way it made Lothran a different, maybe a better person. Wearing the Savior's Hide to remind him of the mistake is a nice touch.

Yeah, it sure is a shame. But like you say that whole thing may have made him a better person elf and without it, maybe he wouldnīt have started to work more consciously to help others. I have thought about resurrecting the unicorn via console but I think that would take away the sense of responsibility and the whole cause and effect thing. And also, it would alter Lothranīs history even if I roleplayed it was a different unicorn and I donīt like that idea.

QUOTE(Lopov @ Nov 15 2015, 11:28 AM) *

I wondered how he handled the Sanguine's Quest and evaded the authorities afterwards. bigsmile.gif

To be completely honest, I donīt actually remember if he evaded them or got caught and served a sentence. I think he was able to flee with the help of invisibility but I canīt say for sure.

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Nov 16 2015, 07:00 PM

QUOTE(ghastley @ Nov 13 2015, 08:49 PM) *

I disliked Hircine's enough to http://ghastley.org/Oblivion/Docs/Hircines_Virgin.html, and provide another way to get the horn without harming its owner. It actually makes it quite a bit harder, as keeping the Unicorn non-aggressive isn't easy.

I didn't change Sanguine's, but I did add another that he gets involved in.

I agree with Lothran about all the others. Did he read http://www.uesp.net/wiki/Oblivion:Worn,_Faded_Note on the "boss" vampire when he did Azura's? It would have told him that it's what they wanted, too.

In my lore hunt for Hircine I came across this. I skimmed through it before one time but I never noticed you wrote it. I enjoy the addition of the virgin. Unicorns and virgins are told in the old stories and folklore.

Posted by: mirocu Dec 4 2015, 09:16 AM

The Ayleid statues



Lothran has four Ayleid statues and theyīre all decorating his Bruma home. He added one to his collection this year in fact but I donīt remember where he found it. Another three statues are at Umbacanoīs manor in Talos Plaza so in total he has found seven out of the ten out there. Always awesome when thereīs more to be discovered, I never fully want to find everything as I always want something to strive for. Lothran doesnīt dungeon dive as much anymore but knowing thereīs three statues left gives him a reason to maybe go check that ruin over there after all... wink.gif

As for Umbacano himself, well, he is now a permanent resident of Nenalata. Things didnīt go quite as he had expected but hey, at least he gets to sit in the throne for all eternity laugh.gif Lothran was very much surprised when he found out the dark side of Umbacano as he had seemed to be such a nice guy before that. Always so friendly and welcoming. Always so generous paying up for every statue he brought to him.

The big battle that ensued deep in the old ruin prompted Lothran to take the Ayleid crown of Lindai off Umbacano as a reminder that even the nicest of persons can have a dark side to them and that itīs best to always be careful around even close friends. You never know who they really are deep down...

Posted by: Acadian Dec 4 2015, 03:12 PM

That's a nice approach to those statues. That way, as you say, Lothran knows there's still a few out there waiting to be found. smile.gif

Posted by: Lopov Dec 4 2015, 10:18 PM

I was getting eager for a new Lothran story. smile.gif

Anyway, so nice that he still has something to search for despite being present in Cyrodiil for so long. There's certain charm in that, I agree. Too bad how things turned out for Umbacano but I guess he didn't have many options.

Posted by: mirocu Dec 4 2015, 10:49 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Dec 4 2015, 03:12 PM) *

That's a nice approach to those statues. That way, as you say, Lothran knows there's still a few out there waiting to be found. smile.gif

Itīs a good motivator to dungeon dive thatīs for sure smile.gif

QUOTE(Lopov @ Dec 4 2015, 10:18 PM) *

I was getting eager for a new Lothran story. smile.gif

Well, I have pretty much covered what I wanted to cover by now... laugh.gif


Writing about the statues and Umbacano has been on my mind for awhile and this morning it felt like I should. I hesitated since I didnīt have much to write on the subject and I did come up short, but I still wanted to add that little snipet of Lothran history. Adding more details on Umbacano would merely serve as filler and I didnīt want that.

Anyway, glad you guys liked it smile.gif

Posted by: Grits Dec 9 2015, 01:59 AM

I think it’s great that there are still some surprises out there for Lothran to discover. Thank you for sharing some of Lothran’s hard-won insights! I always smile to think of his hair color changing to reflect the depth of his experiences.

Posted by: mirocu Dec 10 2015, 09:44 PM

QUOTE(Grits @ Dec 9 2015, 01:59 AM) *

I think it’s great that there are still some surprises out there for Lothran to discover.

Indeed smile.gif

He rarely discovers new things but when he does itīs like Christmas and b-day all at once! laugh.gif

QUOTE(Grits @ Dec 9 2015, 01:59 AM) *

I always smile to think of his hair color changing to reflect the depth of his experiences.

It was an interesting thing to do but I feel I made the change too early. Now all I can do is make him more wrinkely and bald and I donīt want that tongue.gif

QUOTE(Grits @ Dec 9 2015, 01:59 AM) *

Thank you for sharing some of Lothran’s hard-won insights!

Glad you enjoy it biggrin.gif

Posted by: mALX Dec 10 2015, 09:57 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Dec 4 2015, 03:16 AM) *

The Ayleid statues



Lothran has four Ayleid statues and theyīre all decorating his Bruma home. He added one to his collection this year in fact but I donīt remember where he found it. Another three statues are at Umbacanoīs manor in Talos Plaza so in total he has found seven out of the ten out there. Always awesome when thereīs more to be discovered, I never fully want to find everything as I always want something to strive for. Lothran doesnīt dungeon dive as much anymore but knowing thereīs three statues left gives him a reason to maybe go check that ruin over there after all... wink.gif

As for Umbacano himself, well, he is now a permanent resident of Nenalata. Things didnīt go quite as he had expected but hey, at least he gets to sit in the throne for all eternity laugh.gif Lothran was very much surprised when he found out the dark side of Umbacano as he had seemed to be such a nice guy before that. Always so friendly and welcoming. Always so generous paying up for every statue he brought to him.

The big battle that ensued deep in the old ruin prompted Lothran to take the Ayleid crown of Lindai off Umbacano as a reminder that even the nicest of persons can have a dark side to them and that itīs best to always be careful around even close friends. You never know who they really are deep down...



Wait, if Lothran only turned in 7 statues, how is Umbacano living in Nenalata? I thought he only went there after he got the full collection! Or, maybe you just get the 10,000 gold bonus if you turn all 10 in. (?)

I never knew you could complete the questline without finding them all !!! But if so, yes - awesome that one day you will find the others !!!



Posted by: mirocu Dec 10 2015, 10:14 PM

QUOTE(mALX @ Dec 10 2015, 09:57 PM) *

Wait, if Lothran only turned in 7 statues, how is Umbacano living in Nenalata? I thought he only went there after he got the full collection! Or, maybe you just get the 10,000 gold bonus if you turn all 10 in. (?)

I never knew you could complete the questline without finding them all !!! But if so, yes - awesome that one day you will find the others !!!

Yeah, thatīs the problem. They are two different questlines actually and you can complete the Ayleid crown thing before you complete the statues collecting one, thus eliminating your chances of ever finishing it.

Posted by: mALX Dec 10 2015, 10:23 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Dec 10 2015, 04:14 PM) *

QUOTE(mALX @ Dec 10 2015, 09:57 PM) *

Wait, if Lothran only turned in 7 statues, how is Umbacano living in Nenalata? I thought he only went there after he got the full collection! Or, maybe you just get the 10,000 gold bonus if you turn all 10 in. (?)

I never knew you could complete the questline without finding them all !!! But if so, yes - awesome that one day you will find the others !!!

Yeah, thatīs the problem. They are two different questlines actually and you can complete the Ayleid crown thing before you complete the statues collecting one, thus eliminating your chances of ever finishing it.



Aw, heck! Is it stuck in your journal? I always wait till I have collected them all, then sell one to trigger that quest to start. That way I turn in all the statues at once before starting the second half of that questline ("Nothing you can Possess"). I never realized you could end the second before the first was over!




Posted by: mirocu Dec 10 2015, 10:29 PM

Yeah itīs stuck there but I donīt care. The quest sections of Lothranīs journal just collect dust now anyway smile.gif

Posted by: mALX Dec 10 2015, 10:58 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Dec 10 2015, 04:29 PM) *

Yeah itīs stuck there but I donīt care. The quest sections of Lothranīs journal just collect dust now anyway smile.gif


After getting the game on PC - I played about 5 games or so, then I spent most of my time in Oblivion playing with mods or modding the game myself rather than actually playing the game. But I had played well over 18 full games from the tutorial dungeon to finding every last wilderness chest on the 360 before getting the PC; and several games on the PC too before getting into playing other people's mods. Then when I started making my own mods - it kind of was all I wanted to do; make a mod and go visit it/play in it, lol.



Posted by: mirocu Dec 23 2015, 09:22 AM

Hunting ogres in Pale Pass





Itīs now a tradition for Lothran to go to Pale Pass and hunt ogres on Christmas. Just yesterday he packed up his things and in the early morning he set out. He usually carries the same stuff every year; a frost enchanted bow with 40 arrows, Goldbrand and of course Snowflake, the present from Buffy happy.gif
He also carries 20 self-made poisons.

This is about the only time of the year he uses a bow so itīs something he looks forward to and this year he has a new strategy; get the ogreīs attention with the bow and follow up with a spell he got in Shivering Isles this year called Icy Blaze, a spell that (obviously) does both frost and fire damage. In other years he has usually followed up with Goldbrand but this way was a bit quicker and he didnīt need to constantly switch weapons. The ogres take good damage from the initial shot from a hidden position so all it takes to bring them down is two hits from the spell.


Itīs always a special feeling to return to Pale Pass. This is the place I remember the most from Lothranīs early days which, I guess, is why we always want to return. The tradition to go every Christmas is a few years old but I donīt know exactly when it started. A rough guess is around 2010-2011, and like many traditions it started by pure coincidence. I wanted to return and it just happened to be at Christmas, and the following year I remembered making a save on the 23rd by the ruin in Pale Pass and thus, the tradition was born smile.gif

He doesnīt bother with the ruin however. He knows itīs empty and quiet and thereīs no need to go through it again and disturb the peace. He does have fun in the snowy valley though biggrin.gif


http://i.imgur.com/rMivqCQ.png
http://i.imgur.com/3ICPAkr.png




Posted by: Grits Dec 23 2015, 01:09 PM

Oh, I like Lothran’s camp. Pale Pass is a great place for a winter visit. It’s neat to have these traditions. smile.gif

Posted by: Acadian Dec 23 2015, 02:42 PM

So nice to see Lothran conducting his normal Christmas ogre hunt. I hope he makes it back safely to the fire in his cabin in Bruma with plenty of ogre teeth to help make the season bright! tongue.gif

Gosh it looks cold there! Brrrr!

Posted by: Lopov Dec 23 2015, 07:21 PM

I knew he goes to Pale Pass once a year but I didn't know it's a Christmas tradition. I like his camp as well, how about a peak inside the tent? wink.gif

Posted by: mALX Dec 23 2015, 07:37 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Dec 23 2015, 03:22 AM) *

Hunting ogres in Pale Pass


http://i.imgur.com/rMivqCQ.png
http://i.imgur.com/3ICPAkr.png



Looks like Lothran is visiting Persephone at her tower!



Posted by: mirocu Dec 24 2015, 08:38 AM

Thanks for your comments, guys biggrin.gif


And Lopov, pics are in the screenshot thread as of soon now smile.gif

Posted by: Winter Wolf Dec 24 2015, 01:05 PM

That is such a neat idea! What an awesome way to celebrate Christmas.

Posted by: mirocu Dec 26 2015, 09:34 PM

QUOTE(Winter Wolf @ Dec 24 2015, 01:05 PM) *

That is such a neat idea! What an awesome way to celebrate Christmas.

Thank you! smile.gif I really like this tradition and Lothran is quite happy he gets to use a bow again biggrin.gif


This year he got 17 ogre teeth in total, but I could swear he got 18 last year... huh.gif

Posted by: mirocu Jan 15 2016, 06:32 PM

Lothran's houses





As many already know, Lothran has three houses; one in Bruma, one in Bravil and the shack in the Imperial City waterfront. I would have preferred to have just one house or maybe two, but Lothran insisted on one more and as I could see where he's coming from I agreed to it.
I should mention that technically he has a fourth home, the manor in Anvil, but he has never used it and he never visits it. The only reason it's listed in his stats is because it had a quest attached to it, and he was interested to see it through. But as far as we both are concerned it's not owned by him and has been donated to the city of Anvil.


The Imperial City shack

This one was purchased because of its closeness to the Arcane University and because Lothran spent so much time in the City in his early days and he wanted a place to call his own. He also desperately needed a place in which to store things before he went to Bruma to find Ongar. Don't ask why he needed to find him though hehe.gif

http://i.imgur.com/o8XEZpy.png
http://i.imgur.com/oogwPbr.png


The Bruma home

Not much is needed to say about it I reckon as I've already talked about it quite a bit. It's his only "real" home and he decided to get it before he even passed through the gates to Bruma. He has spent hours decorating and organizing it. It's a beautiful home smile.gif

http://i.imgur.com/rbETdZh.png
http://i.imgur.com/i3SBJhE.png
http://i.imgur.com/mfvVzJt.png
http://i.imgur.com/bsIQlG2.png
http://i.imgur.com/UKARDT4.png
http://i.imgur.com/FkOnTQW.png
http://i.imgur.com/dlvDOXb.png
http://i.imgur.com/pwrei7r.png
http://i.imgur.com/be0mF82.png


The Bravil home

The last house to be purchased by the Dunmer. Careful consideration very much preceeded it but like the other homes it has served its purpose well. It was needed because of the sudden appearance of the Shivering Isles in the Niben Bay and Lothran needed a place close by where he could store all the trinkets and gadgets that he found there. But as it has turned out itīs also a very good place to stay when he's in the deep south, or at least on his way to it smile.gif

http://i.imgur.com/eLnHQ2y.png
http://i.imgur.com/mlBxWli.png
http://i.imgur.com/cLwPDG5.png
http://i.imgur.com/VCKeQYV.png


The tent

And yes, he does have his tent as well. It has been with him all over Cyrodiil, from the warm parts south of Skingrad to the frozen land in Pale Pass and it has even been a shelter to him in the Shivering Isles. But it's actually his second tent. The first one was bigger and had more things in it, but he repeatedly had problems with it (he couldn't exit) and so it had to go. That one was also something he had to carry around while this second one is summoned, utilizing his skills as a conjurer.

http://i.imgur.com/KfeI26T.png

Posted by: Acadian Jan 15 2016, 08:10 PM

What a nice tour of Lothran’s properties!

Buffy always thinks of the Bruma cabin as Lothie’s main home and is so happy that he got the fireplace fixed several years ago. She knows how beautifully cozy it is inside, replete with a pumpkin from Mooch and a spare bear pelt for Buffy to curl up in when she visits.

I believe Lothran’s small Bravil house is similar to the one Buffy used to own in the City of Mara. The view of the canal from that part of town is wonderful.

I’m glad that he didn’t keep the Anvil Manor. Last we checked, little Angel (bobg’s young mage) was still using it as her family home.

Buffy never understood why Lothran wanted the Waterfront home except that it is on the water. The University has plenty of spare beds after all. Of course, Buffy doesn’t really know much (or perhaps chooses not to know) of some of Lothran’s darker dealings where that house could come in handy.

And every elf needs a tent, of course! Lothran’s looks simple and strong enough to keep the weather at bay.

Posted by: Grits Jan 18 2016, 10:43 PM

How fun to learn about and see some pictures of Lothran’s homes! The waterfront shack and Bruma house are my favorites. I look forward to seeing Lothran’s little house on the water.

Posted by: mirocu Jan 25 2016, 11:24 AM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Jan 15 2016, 08:10 PM) *

Buffy always thinks of the Bruma cabin as Lothie’s main home and is so happy that he got the fireplace fixed several years ago. She knows how beautifully cozy it is inside, replete with a pumpkin from Mooch and a spare bear pelt for Buffy to curl up in when she visits.

The Bruma house is basically his only home, the others just serve as storage units with sleeping arrangements laugh.gif

And that bear pelt is still there in case Buffy suddenly decides to pop by happy.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ Jan 15 2016, 08:10 PM) *

Buffy never understood why Lothran wanted the Waterfront home except that it is on the water. The University has plenty of spare beds after all. Of course, Buffy doesn’t really know much (or perhaps chooses not to know) of some of Lothran’s darker dealings where that house could come in handy.

Oh, Lothranīs dealings arenīt really that dark. In the past he just did what he felt was necessary. He doesnīt deal with it now though, but heīs glad for all the friends he got when he did smile.gif

The University might have many beds for Lothran when heīs in the City, but it doesnīt have much peace and quiet compared to the Waterfront shack smile.gif

QUOTE(Grits @ Jan 18 2016, 10:43 PM) *

How fun to learn about and see some pictures of Lothran’s homes! The waterfront shack and Bruma house are my favorites. I look forward to seeing Lothran’s little house on the water.

Thanks! smile.gif

Yeah, Iīll add some pictures later. Sucks that I donīt already have taken them.

Posted by: Rihanae Jan 26 2016, 12:04 AM

Literally just spent the past half hour binge reading all of your updates! I'm loving reading this and it's so interesting getting some insight into Lothran and your adventures together over the years! smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Jan 26 2016, 08:36 AM

QUOTE(Rihanae @ Jan 26 2016, 12:04 AM) *

Literally just spent the past half hour binge reading all of your updates!

Oh. You... want a refund..? biggrin.gif

QUOTE(Rihanae @ Jan 26 2016, 12:04 AM) *

I'm loving reading this and it's so interesting getting some insight into Lothran and your adventures together over the years! smile.gif

Thank you happy.gif

Iīm glad that you got some joy out of reading it smile.gif

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Jan 26 2016, 05:13 PM

Well. He certainly did not go wrong in real estate. The Bravil home was intelligent on his part; store in Daedric loot with no delay in returning to get some more. More practical. You know, as much as I love these homes, what stood out to me the most was the tent. That's a great place for an adventurer like Lothran to be at because it is in the wilderness, and while adventures at home can happen(like if you have a magic paintbrush or something), outside is where its at.

Posted by: mirocu Jan 27 2016, 08:58 PM

Pictures of all the houses have been added smile.gif

Posted by: Acadian Jan 28 2016, 12:48 AM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Jan 27 2016, 11:58 AM) *
Pictures of all the houses have been added smile.gif

Oh, thanks for the new pix and letting us know about them!

The IC shack is wonderfully cozy and it's waterfront property!

The Bravil house is also very cozy and it's great to see how Lothie decorated it - brings back memories of when Buffy used to have an eerily similar house there in Bravil.

I really love the Bruma one because it is Lothran's primary home - and his attention to decorating there really shows.

Tent. What can you say? Convenient and dry! tongue.gif

Posted by: Darkness Eternal Feb 4 2016, 12:36 PM

Bravil does look cosy.... Even for a town they smells like waste and mold and Skooma-suckers hehe.

Posted by: Grits Feb 5 2016, 03:35 PM

Very nice house pictures. I especially like Lothran's Bruma house collections and decorations. Thank you for sharing them!

Posted by: mirocu Feb 5 2016, 04:41 PM

Iīm glad you guys like the pictures as much time has indeed been spent decorating smile.gif

Nowadays Lothran doesnīt do much in the department, but I guess itīs because he likes how it is. As do I.

Posted by: mirocu May 1 2016, 09:09 AM

Dungeon diving





Like most characters out there, Lothran has always been on the sneaky side of things when it comes to dungeon diving. Early on it was out of necessity and because I, his mentor, have always enjoyed that gameplay style. Now itīs more out of habit and because I still like it. What he usually does is employ 60% Chameleon with enchanted trinkets with an optional Chameleon spell that raises it beyond 100%, although thatīs mostly not needed. Then when encountering a foe he summons his Spriggan friend and lets her and her bear have some fun while he sits back and enjoys the show. The reason for the high Chameleon is simply to ensure that the invisible orchestra that follows Lothran doesnīt change tune tongue.gif


First exception:

Iīve mentioned recently in the Update thread how he runs in, throws his Scout spell to attract those inside and then runs out and jumps up on a big rock. Then when whoever comes out he summons his Spriggan and watch the spectacle. This habit has really put Lothran in the same category as the classic warlock standing on a hill letting his minions fight the battle. While Lothran isnīt evil it really is appropriate since he is Warlock rank in the Mages Guild. I donīt know if this "stand back and summon Spriggan" thing comes from that classic image of a warlock or because either him or I have become lazy and canīt be bothered to fight so much anymore, but I think it suits him. Not to mention itīs quite fun wink.gif


Second exception:

Sometimes he throws a long-lasting light spell and goes in with horns and trumpets. This is especially the case with Plundered Mine near Bruma. Thereīs just so much fun to be had with the goblins and how they focus solely on the Spriggan even though Lothran is standing right there, all luminous with his shield raised. This practice comes from one particular occasion when he wanted to see what he went for, so to speak. He wanted to use everything he had; potions, Great Powers, spells and weapons, and see how he fared against multiple (and tough) enemies at once.

Anyone wanna guess how it went? wink.gif


Posted by: Renee May 1 2016, 02:52 PM

I agree, the wizard standing at the top of the hill (or standing anywhere) while not moving much is a classic mage-y, Hollyweird image. I've had a few who do this as well.

And yes, the "lots of light" method is great too. smile.gif I first tried this long ago with my paladin, Dyan phor a'Cauz. She would intentionally go into lairs while NOT sneaking, and using lots of light. Partially this was so she can see, but partially it's also to piss off the enemies who live in there. They don't want all this light in their lair!

QUOTE
Anyone wanna guess how it went?


I can't guess other than to say Lothie prevailed over all. But you tell us!

Posted by: Acadian May 1 2016, 03:43 PM

What a fun peek into some of Lothie’s tactics, trappings and thinking! smile.gif

I think Buffy can understand some of it as she has been known to buff her nails while in stealth as a frenzy spell causes foes to beat themselves up. Spriggans are so neat though and a summon who summons a summon can’t be beat I figure.

Coaxing foes outside is pretty clever too.

The idea of just running willy nilly into a dungeon with lights ablazing sounds terrifying though! ohmy.gif

Posted by: mirocu May 1 2016, 04:02 PM

QUOTE(Renee @ May 1 2016, 03:52 PM) *

QUOTE
Anyone wanna guess how it went?


I can't guess other than to say Lothie prevailed over all. But you tell us!

All I can say is, he was the only one leaving the cave afterwards cool.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 1 2016, 04:43 PM) *

Coaxing foes outside is pretty clever too.

Especially if they are vampires and itīs daytime biggrin.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 1 2016, 04:43 PM) *

I think Buffy can understand some of it as she has been known to buff her nails while in stealth as a frenzy spell causes foes to beat themselves up. Spriggans are so neat though and a summon who summons a summon can’t be beat I figure.

Lothran never did play around with Frenzy spells and I donīt think he will. Though I do like the idea behind it very much smile.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 1 2016, 04:43 PM) *

The idea of just running willy nilly into a dungeon with lights ablazing sounds terrifying though! ohmy.gif

I bet Buffy is proficient enough to employ a strong enough Shield spell to pull it off, but then again as a mystic archer that approach doesnīt quite suit her. She does her own thing a lot better Iīd say smile.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 1 2016, 04:43 PM) *

What a fun peek into some of Lothie’s tactics, trappings and thinking! smile.gif

Always fun to learn how others work smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Aug 22 2016, 12:46 PM

Lothran in Shivering Isles





Long time no post, so here we go! biggrin.gif

Lothran has been to the Isles a few times. A good estimate would be four times, the latest I think was last summer. First time he went there could have been in 2008 or possibly 2009 and it was a blast to explore a whole new area again after having domesticated Cyrodiil. He did a bunch of quests, but as always ignored the MQ, and collected a range of things to take back home.
He spent a lot of time exploring both sides of the Isles and the towns, buying new spells, talking to new people and just enjoying all the things he saw. Traveling unfamiliar territories again really pushed both of us back to the early days of 2007 when we crawled out of the sewers into a huge world where we didnÂīt know what to expect.


Second time he went to the Isles he had a need to simply vanish, go underground so to speak. I think this was because of recent events in Cyrodiil. While not having become an outright criminal, he felt it was best to lay low for awhile and what better place to do that than in another realm? He took refuge in Hale as he felt comfortable there even though that settlement is not the furthest one from the Gate. This is what I remember mostly about this journey but as always exploring caves and collecting things was on the table as well.

Third visit was the one I reported from in a quite elaborate way, with each update having its own grand title like "Trail of a Madman", referring back to an episode from the original Wolfenstein 3D. DonÂīt remember much more about it so IÂīll just leave it at that.

Last summerÂīs visit was because we both felt a need to tie up some loose ends. We needed to find an ingredient we didnÂīt have, pick up a few more things to complete collections, find items previously unfound and also to finish up the quest where we had to deliver an Elytra for Mirili. The reason we needed to do this was because she had been standing on CyrodiilÂīs side of the Gate for quite some time and we thought that by ending this particular quest she would stay put in Highcross. HavenÂīt checked but I think sheÂīs still there.

So there were a bunch of reasons to his last visit and since those have been taked cared of I donÂīt see when Lothran will return to the Isles. But IÂīm positive itÂīll happen again eventually.



Mania/Bliss or Dementia/Crucible?



As for what region of the Isles Lothran prefers IÂīd say both. It can vary from visit to visit but overall he likes both regions equally. As for the towns; Crucible hands down. The layout and the stores are a bit more interesting but he likes it mostly for its bigger feel and the bleak atmosphere. Also, when he first got there he entered Crucible first and I think that might have left an impression on him. The Mazken do their part as well since theyÂīre much more polite and nice to be around than the Aureals.


Better depressed than maniacal! wink.gif


Thanks for reading smile.gif

Posted by: Acadian Aug 24 2016, 02:14 PM

How fun to see another update to the neverending adventures of dear Lothran! I completely understand how he likes both sides of the island the same - as different as they are, they are both neat in their own way.

You are right that the Seducers are nicer than the Saints but Buffy's so awestruck by what she considers the Saints' beautiful armor and look that she prefers them despite their more haughty attitude.

Thanks again for the update! smile.gif

Posted by: Renee Aug 27 2016, 03:59 AM

I still haven't had anybody ever go to the Isles. The part when he vanished for awhile, what was that all about?

Posted by: mirocu Aug 27 2016, 02:09 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Aug 24 2016, 03:14 PM) *

You are right that the Seducers are nicer than the Saints but Buffy's so awestruck by what she considers the Saints' beautiful armor and look that she prefers them despite their more haughty attitude.

Well, she does look very good herself in that armor. CanÂīt deny that wink.gif

QUOTE(Renee @ Aug 27 2016, 04:59 AM) *

I still haven't had anybody ever go to the Isles.

Really? Bout time then, I say! smile.gif

QUOTE(Renee @ Aug 27 2016, 04:59 AM) *

The part when he vanished for awhile, what was that all about?

If memory serves me, I think he had been doing some shady things and sort of felt an imprisonment was imminent and thus a preemptive escape was necessary.

As for what sort of shady business it was, well, IÂīm not at liberty to discuss that... biggrin.gif

Posted by: Renee Aug 27 2016, 04:16 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Aug 27 2016, 09:09 AM) *

As for what sort of shady business it was, well, IÂīm not at liberty to discuss that... biggrin.gif

Aww shucks.


Posted by: Grits Aug 28 2016, 05:18 PM

Neat to read about Lothran’s different trips to the Isles. I also like both Mania and Dementia and don’t see a need to pick a favorite. Thank you for the update!

Posted by: mirocu Aug 29 2016, 03:00 PM

QUOTE(Grits @ Aug 28 2016, 06:18 PM) *

Neat to read about Lothran’s different trips to the Isles. I also like both Mania and Dementia and don’t see a need to pick a favorite. Thank you for the update!

Thank you for reading smile.gif

I was surprised to learn that I hadnÂīt already written about the Isles.

Posted by: mirocu Feb 8 2017, 10:57 PM

Ten year anniversary





Blimey, krikey, O'Reilly. Has it really been a whole decade since I first started to play this game? Ten full years?
I suppose it has, judging by my join date at Bethsoft. I started to play in February 2007 and joined up in December the very same year in order to ask anyone who wanted to answer me how to fix the Abomb issue I had been suffering under for weeks, if not months. I tried to overlook it as long as I could but eventually I was desperate enough to start up my 56K modem and go online in hope to find the cure which thankfully I did. I remember falling on my knees and thank whoever was listening when the animation worked properly again... tongue.gif


Lothran was not called Lothran initially. I gave him my real name but after some time I began to wonder if he didn't deserve his own name as he had grown his own personality by this point, something I had not expected. I remember thinking about it at work many times without finding something suitable, but then one day it came to me quite out of the blue; Lothran. Of course! There it is! And the rest is as they say history.


We have been on many adventures, Lothran and I. Though in the beginning we were sort of confined to the Imperial City on account of the computer I had at the time. It could play Oblivion on highest settings in dungeons and in the City which looked amazing, but going outside the gates provided stuttering like nothing else and my only option was to lower the settings, something I did not tolerate. So, while waiting for better and better graphics cards and more RAM, Lothran and I roamed the City for weeks, exploring every nook and cranny and completing quest after quest.


While Lothran has visited the Aetherius plane once or twice because of my carelessness and I've had to do a few reinstalls for reasons I have long forgotten, I have not once restarted him. While different from when he woke up in prison he is literally still the very same character I started a whole decade ago, the only thing that has changed is the computer I play the game on. I like Lothran and the history we have and I wouldn't dream of starting him over, create another character or stop playing the game. It's all too valuable to me.
We have been through so much, done so many things and as long as I can get hold of a computer that plays Oblivion I reckon we still have many hours left together happy.gif



http://i.imgur.com/AMG4fED.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ysRh6Vl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ttjaFhh.jpg

Posted by: Acadian Feb 9 2017, 01:30 AM

Yup, TEN years! And I started OB only a few months after you.

Lothie is such a wonderful character - both endearing and enduring. Long may he travel Cyrodiil! happy.gif

Posted by: Renee Feb 13 2017, 04:17 PM

QUOTE
Lothran was not called Lothran initially. I gave him my real name but after some time I began to wonder if he didn't deserve his own name as he had grown his own personality by this point, something I had not expected.


Holy [censored], Batman. Seriously, this is sort of shocking. ohmy.gif

I was also kinda surprised that you stayed in the IC for so long because of computing limitations. It's ironic, since inside of towns is usually where the framerates drop, not outside. Then again, there was no Better Cities or Crowded Cities back in those days, bla bla bla...and you probably don't have these in your game even now.

I really love that final shot of him by the sea.

QUOTE
I like Lothran and the history we have and I wouldn't dream of starting him over, create another character or stop playing the game.


Who's telling you to start him over? indifferent.gif I am guilty of asking for a second character, but it's only because I know how much seconds can enhance the experience of the first. Hard to explain. hehe.gif And no, I am not "going there" sir, I'm just explaining why I've asked this of you so many times in the past.

Anyways, here's a toast to Lothie. I'll be doing my 10th anniversary next year, October 24, 2018 to be exact.

Posted by: mirocu May 15 2021, 08:11 AM

Our very own Renee Formerly Knowns as Gade the Third found the poems I wrote on the official forums about two millennias ago, or in 2012, one of them being the (in)famous Ode to Mud Crab! Instead of making a poem thread which I believe would not be long-lasting anyway I'll just repost them here for your amusement. Thank you, Renee! tongue.gif


The adventure poem

From north to south,
from east to west,
I wander while wearing my Huntsman's vest

This land I see,
so lush and free,
to roam beyond the mountain's crest

Invasion or not,
a sinister plot,
Lord Dagon the daedra has not forgot

A hero feels the call,
"The portals must fall!",
he cries out loud with great appall

To save the land,
he raises his hand,
and wields his sword and power so grand

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

Ode to Mud Crab

Mud crab, oh mud crab
hated are thou
Though you make me bow

Mud crab, oh mud crab
sharp is your claw
It is without flaw

Mud crab, oh mud crab
tasty is your meat
Over your feet

Mud crab, oh mud crab
you creak as you go
down with the flow
Away from your foe

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

Ode to M'aiq

A feline who is really fast,
he certainly won't finish last
M'aiq is his name!
His Infamy's lower than his Fame

They call him "the Liar",
and yes, he is not a friar
He speaks weird stuff,
his language; a bit rough
He says hands are for slapping,
and sometimes for clapping

If you want him to talk,
it's useless him stalk
He runs and leaves you behind,
with little or no words to find

He appears everywhere!
But where is his lair?
In Morrowind, Cyrodiil or Skyrim perhaps?
To bring forth the truth, be sure to use FRAPS


(I wrote this during work hours, so this one I actually got paid for!)

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

A short one

This game is as good as it gets,
I play it, and with no regrets.
I roam 'round the land,
with a bow in my hand.
In Arena, I place all my bets!

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

Ode to Buffy

I know of this Bosmer who is really sweet,
she may not be tall, just a few feet

But she is a good friend and I'd like her to know,
that without her friendship, my life feels so low

She roams 'round the land with a bow in her hand,
with Superian, her friend, they stroll on Anvil's sand

Posted by: Acadian May 15 2021, 03:26 PM

mirocu poetry is fabulous. I really like its fairly basic structure and your rhyming. Great job, and Buffy loves the one about her! happy.gif

Posted by: Renee May 16 2021, 06:25 PM

Lol these are fun to read.

The Adventure Poem: I assume that's Lothran speaking, not mirocu.

QUOTE
A hero feels the call,
"The portals must fall!",
he cries out loud with great appall


He says "A hero" does all that stuff, so I assume he's not talking about himself there. Since he never did the Main Quest (except Kvatch, I think). Maybe I'm wrong. '

Mud Crab poem: so silly. wacko.gif

QUOTE
M'aiq is his name!
His Infamy's lower than his Fame


rollinglaugh.gif

I agree with A Short One.

Hail Buffster! salute.gif

Posted by: mirocu May 16 2021, 08:48 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 15 2021, 04:26 PM) *

mirocu poetry is fabulous. I really like its fairly basic structure and your rhyming.

Yeah, I'm not a poet so simple rhymes is what I aim for laugh.gif

QUOTE(Acadian @ May 15 2021, 04:26 PM) *

Great job, and Buffy loves the one about her! happy.gif

happy.gif

QUOTE(Renee @ May 16 2021, 07:25 PM) *

Lol these are fun to read.

The Adventure Poem: I assume that's Lothran speaking, not mirocu.

QUOTE
A hero feels the call,
"The portals must fall!",
he cries out loud with great appall


He says "A hero" does all that stuff, so I assume he's not talking about himself there. Since he never did the Main Quest (except Kvatch, I think). Maybe I'm wrong. '

I think when I wrote that, that I was thinking of when Lothran closed the Kvatch gate so you're right on that one. He never did the MQ but he helped liberate Kvatch.

QUOTE(Renee @ May 16 2021, 07:25 PM) *

Mud Crab poem: so silly. wacko.gif

rollinglaugh.gif

Posted by: Renee May 17 2021, 12:51 PM

How come you don't have gates popping up all over the place, then, if he b34t Kvatch?

Posted by: mirocu May 17 2021, 06:48 PM

QUOTE(Renee @ May 17 2021, 01:51 PM) *

How come you don't have gates popping up all over the place, then, if he b34t Kvatch?

Because he never gave Jauffre the amulet and he never spoke to Martin. I think one of those events trigger it.

Posted by: mirocu Mar 11 2022, 05:22 PM

15 years in Cyrodiil




My goodness, has it really been one and a half decade of playing Oblivion? According to my very first save, 11th of March 2007, the answer is yes. I have always thought I started in February but my save file doesn't lie. Today I have been playing Oblivion for exactly fifteen years. Never restarting, never switching to another character. And the only two major things I've changed about Lothran is making his hair white and giving him his proper name instead of him having my real life one. Last change being one I definitely feel was necessary.

Throughout the first couple of years he went where his heart took him, but as you are all aware he now has a longstanding tradition of going to Bruma for the winter and then directly to Chorrol once spring comes around. This may seem a bit boring, but to me it's really what makes me still wanna play this game even after all these years. Only being in the Jeralls for three months makes me appreciate and really long for coming down to the green forests and all the rest of Cyrodiil again. After those three months it actually feels like a whole new game and I think that's the magic that keeps me going.

Lothran now has all the different spells and enchantments he wants so he no longer feel the need of making anything new. Everything has been thoroughly tested during all his travels and even though I'm sure it can be refined, it's really more nitpicking at this point than an actual need to change anything. Besides; his Spriggan and her bear do most of the fighting these days anyway.

Lothran is a member of the Fighters, Mages and Thieves Guild, being Warder, Warlock and Master Thief respectively. He's also a Knight-Errant in the Knights of the White Stallion lodge and a Brother in the Order of the Virtuous Blood. Worthy of mentioning he's also a Tourist in the Court of Madness and the Grand Champion of the Arena. Last one being one he does not care about whatsoever and he has not fought a match in many years. The only time he visits the Arena is in the fall when he goes and places some bets. As you can tell; these days he prefer watching others do the fighting instead of himself wink.gif

I do use quite a few mods but since most of them are only minor tweaks there's nothing Tamriel-shattering about them. The only ones I'd like to mention are two from our very own SubRosa; Forest Friend and Withcraft. Last one is the one that lets Lothran summon his own Spriggan. It also replaces Forest Friend, the one that keeps deer from running and predators from attacking, but since the amulet that comes with that mod is pretty nifty I've decided to keep it active. I'd also like to mention a mod from dear mALX; Stalker. This one keeps certain people off Lothran's back so he's not being needlessy followed which is a bit creepy. Thanks to both SubRosa and mALX!


I don't want to drag this along so I think I'll end it here. Just thought I'd give a proper recognition to Lothran's adventures in Cyrodiil when hitting this milestone. He's well worth it happy.gif


Thank you for reading!

Posted by: Acadian Mar 11 2022, 09:23 PM

What an impressive accomplishment - congrats to Lothran (and you)! goodjob.gif

I've grown spoiled being able to set my calendar by Lothran's location in Cyrodiil. Most especially his winter pilgrimage to Bruma. Elves live a good long time, so I'm sure he has many more years ahead of adventuring in Cyrodiil.

Posted by: Renee Mar 12 2022, 06:29 PM

That's great Crow. So March the 11th was your very first day. For me it was October 24, 2008, I don't need to look that date up. smile.gif

As I recall, you got Oblivion after driving somebody home from a party. cool.gif cake.gif wacko.gif Whoever you drove home offered you a videogame as payment, I seem to remember there was a choice of either one game, or another. And you chose Oblivion. What would have happened if you'd chosen that other game?

QUOTE(mirocu @ Mar 11 2022, 11:22 AM) *

... never switching to another character.


I was close though, right? I feel like there was maybe one time I got a good Speech Check, and was >< this close to getting you to press that New button one more time. closedeyes.gif

But I also understand nowadays why you have taken the path you've taken, with just one person to spend your virtual time with. The answer is stated in the old forums many times, which was difficult for me to see back in those days: We all have ONE life to live. Me as Renee, and you as whatever your real name is in real life. And so you took the same approach with Lothran. I get it now. Though I still ... well... you know... get curious ... what would happen if...

[AHEM]

..... I mean c'mon! Just for fun!

QUOTE

Thank you for reading!


Welcome. cake.gif



Posted by: Lena Wolf Mar 12 2022, 06:39 PM

I admit to have mostly played the same character throughout the years. Not always technically the same playthrough, and certainly not always just the one game. But the same character, if a choice was given. Lena Wolf has the tendency of accidentally falling into portals... being pushed into portals... whatever. Then she finds herself in another world, where she has to sort out whatever world-shattering events are taking place before she can find her way back home to Bravil. It's one life, indeed.

Posted by: mirocu Mar 12 2022, 06:50 PM

QUOTE(Acadian @ Mar 11 2022, 09:23 PM) *

What an impressive accomplishment - congrats to Lothran (and you)! goodjob.gif

Thank you, and thanks for having been involved for so many years happy.gif

QUOTE(Renee @ Mar 12 2022, 06:29 PM) *

As I recall, you got Oblivion after driving somebody home from a party. cool.gif cake.gif wacko.gif Whoever you drove home offered you a videogame as payment, I seem to remember there was a choice of either one game, or another. And you chose Oblivion. What would have happened if you'd chosen that other game?

I was going to choose Vampire the Masquerade: Bloodlines but opted for Oblivion at the last moment. I did get both games at the same time though.

QUOTE(Renee @ Mar 12 2022, 06:29 PM) *

..... I mean c'mon! Just for fun!

It was never close to really happen and it won't be close in the future. Think I've made myself clear at this point?

QUOTE(Lena Wolf @ Mar 12 2022, 06:39 PM) *

I admit to have mostly played the same character throughout the years. Not always technically the same playthrough, and certainly not always just the one game. But the same character, if a choice was given. Lena Wolf has the tendency of accidentally falling into portals... being pushed into portals... whatever. Then she finds herself in another world, where she has to sort out whatever world-shattering events are taking place before she can find her way back home to Bravil. It's one life, indeed.

That's cool, kinda like Acadian and Buffy then. However I keep Lothran to Cyrodiil. Playing Morrowind and other games I always make new characters.

Posted by: Lopov Mar 12 2022, 08:02 PM

Congratulations, mirocu and Lothran. That's quite an accomplishment, really worth admiring. Especially through my eyes, because I'm suited to playing multiple characters, in most cases reaching max 150 hours with one (there are some exceptions that go over 300 hours, but there aren't many), while YOU on the other hand managed to stay with your very first one for fifteen long years. Impressive indeed.

As I already wrote once, your post in the updates thread about Lothran heading to Bruma is for me always a clear sign that I need to swap tires on my car soon, because winter is close, so I actually don't need to check the calendar, I only need to read the updates thread. biggrin.gif

I wish you and Lothran many happy years more.

Posted by: mirocu Mar 13 2022, 09:03 AM

QUOTE(Lopov @ Mar 12 2022, 08:02 PM) *

Congratulations, mirocu and Lothran. That's quite an accomplishment, really worth admiring. Especially through my eyes, because I'm suited to playing multiple characters, in most cases reaching max 150 hours with one (there are some exceptions that go over 300 hours, but there aren't many), while YOU on the other hand managed to stay with your very first one for fifteen long years. Impressive indeed.

Thank you very much! Although it's not difficult for me to only stay with Lothran. I do the same in Morrowind, Fallout 3 and Arena. I need a character in order to explore the game, I make one, and that's it smile.gif

QUOTE(Lopov @ Mar 12 2022, 08:02 PM) *

I wish you and Lothran many happy years more.

As the Brits say; cheers! biggrin.gif

Posted by: Renee Mar 14 2022, 02:23 PM

Yeesh, sorry Mirocu. sad.gif I tease you a lot, I know. Sometimes maybe I go too far...

Posted by: mirocu Mar 19 2022, 06:40 PM

Floating objects




Lothran has his own non-journal quest and that is to document all objects that defy the Levitation Act. He has come across a few over the years and one just today NW of Chorrol. I reckon this particular object has been discovered earlier but without being photographed. He also discovered one last year just outside Skingrad.

Here follows a list of the ones we've documented this far:

https://i.imgur.com/BWejw6h.png
https://i.imgur.com/daUQqDO.png
https://i.imgur.com/pRc9JmB.png
https://i.imgur.com/3YEpn98.png
https://i.imgur.com/JkFYOsW.png
https://i.imgur.com/6HYAG6W.png
https://i.imgur.com/uBJOM73.png

Bonus: https://i.imgur.com/dQLJytd.png


NOTE: There is also a rock floating in the forest by the Gold Road between Imperial City and Skingrad but we've failed to document that. Will do that at some point.


ADDENDUM:

https://i.imgur.com/LcaHikV.png
https://i.imgur.com/lWyv1nG.png
https://i.imgur.com/wSsc1b1.png

Posted by: Acadian Mar 19 2022, 07:30 PM

Wow, some of those are not too far off and bear the marks of sloppy placement but some of those rocks and trees are really up in the air!

Posted by: WellTemperedClavier Apr 15 2022, 11:59 PM

This is... strangely touching.

I haven't seen anything quite like this before--namely, a story examining how you, the writer/player, feels about your in-game character that also makes clear that the in-game character is part of, well, a game. But it fits. I think a lot of us end up feeling a bit of attachment to our player-characters simply because we're invested in them.

It's also an interesting way to explore the game setting. Lothran's/your reluctance to deliver the amulet for fear of something happening to the town of Bruma is very, well, human. We get attachments to these places, after all. And the game itself is something of a presence--as regular as the seasons (and, as your descriptions state, the seasons determine where Lothran goes).

Thank you for sharing this.

Posted by: mirocu Apr 16 2022, 10:22 AM

Thank you, Clavier!


Yes, I'm not a fanfic writer and I guess not a traditional RP:er either. I don't see Lothran as something detached from me (usually) but rather an extension of myself. I, as a player, wanted to explore the world of Cyrodiil and in order to do so I needed an in-game representation which happened to be Lothran. This is the reason he had my real name early on as I was him fully so to speak. Same as when I played Deus Ex; I was JC Denton.
I do see it a bit differently now though which is reflected in him having his own name and how I talk about him instead of me here, but when I play we're basically one and the same.



If you want to comment further on a particular story, please do! smile.gif

Posted by: WellTemperedClavier Apr 17 2022, 05:25 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Apr 16 2022, 10:22 AM) *

Thank you, Clavier!


Yes, I'm not a fanfic writer and I guess not a traditional RP:er either. I don't see Lothran as something detached from me (usually) but rather an extension of myself. I, as a player, wanted to explore the world of Cyrodiil and in order to do so I needed an in-game representation which happened to be Lothran. This is the reason he had my real name early on as I was him fully so to speak. Same as when I played Deus Ex; I was JC Denton.
I do see it a bit differently now though which is reflected in him having his own name and how I talk about him instead of me here, but when I play we're basically one and the same.



If you want to comment further on a particular story, please do! smile.gif


I particularly liked the one looking back on Lothran's escapades with the Daedric Princes. Interesting character examination showing where he'd draw the line, and the ones where he went ahead and served them anyway but with regrets.

I didn't do a ton of the Daedric quests in my playthrough. Just Sanguine's and Azura's (I suppose my guy's standards were fairly similar to Lothran's). Sheogorath as well, but only his Shivering Isles content.

Posted by: mirocu Jun 5 2023, 10:35 AM

Lothran and friends



Throughout the beautiful Cyrodiil, Lothran has collected many friends. A lot of them reside at the Mages and Fighters guildhalls but there are plenty more outside of those. Still, loyalty is strong and Lothran always visits the guildhalls for a chat in all the towns/cities whenever he's there. It's also a good opportunity to repair gear and buy ingredients, of course.

Ongar in Bruma is one of Lothran's oldest friends. He helped the Dunmer out when he was in his early days when money was low. Not needing his services anymore, Ongar nowadays mostly provides comedy by stealing food at Olav's and subsequentially getting hacked down by the guards. Sometimes several times an evening tongue.gif

Methredel in the Imperial City remains a good friend too. While having been a competitor entering a certain guild back in the day emot-ninja1.gif there's no bad blood between her and Lothran and they always talk for a bit whenever possible.

I also have to mention Beautiful Buffy the Brave Bosmeri Bowgirl of course. They've met on several occasions in the past, mostly in Bruma but also on the shores of Anvil. It was when meeting in Bruma once that she gave Lothran his trusted dagger https://i.imgur.com/QSJ6UoK.png that he still uses during the winter seasons. Buffs wasn't much into Destruction at the time as in other schools, hence why Snowflake isn't too damaging per strike. But coupled with a Weakness to Frost spell it can still do some decent work.


Other friends that come to mind are the Surilie brothers in Skingrad and Jensine, Dynari Amnis, Algot the Northerner and basically all Khajiit in Imperial City. Worthy of mentioning, Lothran often encounters friendly female Khajiit bandits. Not having met a certain individual before he can walk straight up to them and enter conversation. They only have random rumors to talk about but he can also raise their disposition. Pretty neat! This friendliness also goes for the highwaymen. Even though Lothran chooses to give money upon encountering them, they don't actually take any money smile.gif


Lastly I will mention Aleswell. Ever since Lothran helped them with their issue they are very friendly towards him and he always stays there for a bit when he's on his way to Bruma. Even the mage down in the old fort, being the source of the issue, is an old friend.

Posted by: Renee Jun 5 2023, 10:58 PM

Kahreem and Lady Saga did not make the list? kvright.gif Well I guess they weren't really 'friends' in the sense that Buffy is. Ah well. They do think of Lothran in favorable terms. My Redguard and Bosmer may not know who he is specifically, but they definitely know of him, as the "platinum-haired Dunmer" who lives part-year in Bruma got mentioned maybe a dozen times or so back in their days.

Anyway, cheers.

Posted by: Acadian Jun 5 2023, 11:58 PM

Buffy has fond memories indeed of the times she has spent with Lothran. She vividly remembers the magic of snowflakes dancing in his hair in Bruma. And time spent on the beach and hunting in Anvil.

Aside from Lothran, Buffy's friends in 3rd Era Cyrodiil include numerous residents of Bravil, many members of the Mages Guild and, certainly, Sir Mazoga. smile.gif

Posted by: mirocu Jun 6 2023, 09:07 AM

QUOTE(Renee @ Jun 5 2023, 11:58 PM) *

Kahreem and Lady Saga did not make the list? kvright.gif Well I guess they weren't really 'friends' in the sense that Buffy is.

Well, since they have never 'met' in the sense as he and Buffy has, it's hard to make friends. Meeting and getting to know the person is pretty much a prerequisite for that, I think smile.gif


QUOTE(Acadian @ Jun 6 2023, 12:58 AM) *

Buffy has fond memories indeed of the times she has spent with Lothran. She vividly remembers the magic of snowflakes dancing in his hair in Bruma. And time spent on the beach and hunting in Anvil.

The days in Bruma and Anvil with Buffy are still clear in Lothran's memory, and mine. Especially Anvil now that Lothran is there again.

Regarding Mazoga, she seems to have gone missing in Lothran's world huh.gif


Thanks both for reading!

Posted by: macole Jun 6 2023, 04:08 PM

QUOTE(mirocu @ Jun 6 2023, 03:07 AM) *

The days in Bruma and Anvil with Buffy are still clear in Lothran's memory, and mine. Especially Anvil now that Lothran is there again.

Regarding Mazoga, she seems to have gone missing in Lothran's world huh.gif

We’ve heard of the famed white-haired Dunmer but as you said it is hard to make friends when one is patrolling the roads of Cyrodiil and the other spends the majority of his time deep in lost Ayleid ruins hunting for vampires and ancient artifacts.

Sorry to hear about Mazoga. She is still active in my world.

How did you manage have Lothran and Buffy spend the time together?

Posted by: mirocu Jun 6 2023, 07:49 PM

QUOTE(macole @ Jun 6 2023, 05:08 PM) *

How did you manage have Lothran and Buffy spend the time together?

That was played out via PM's between me an Acadian. Sort of like what happens in a RP thread but privately.

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