The Scroll, the Priest and the Angry Imperial, Formerly known as, 'Dawn of a New Era' Options

[Steve]

Indeed!
What I like about this one is that it has a more defined plot. Though, we don't know what is going to happen. Like, Will there be a war? Will there be peace?
Unlike The Last Heir, where the whole story seemed to be a bunch of different adventures. We knew the plot was a new emperor but, there was no big main quest. I thought it was good, but it seemed to me it should be a whole book series! lol

But I'm looking forward for any continuation.

[redsrock]

But I'm looking forward for any continuation.

Don't look too long.

[Steve]

Sorry!
I'm meant looking forward to a continuation of this story!!!
not the last heir. Not that I wouldn't mind! you know.... uh....
AHHHHHHHHHHH
I'm stuck, how about this?
I would love a continuation of this story and the Last Heir!

[redsrock]

Haha, there you go!

[redsrock]

CHAPTER THREE

“So he actually said all of that stuff?” Torlin asked.

“Yeah, and to think he really wants me to believe it. Still, I don’t think he has any immediate plans, for us anyway. But with Countess Umbranox there, I just don’t know, to be honest with you.”

“I actually happen to think they were discussing terms of a possible Anvil surrender,” Vaden commented.

“WHAT?” Torlin yelled.

“Oh yes, my friend. Anvil’s army is nothing to look at. I believe Countess Umbranox realizes herself that the East will eventually invade us, and she obviously doesn’t think we can win. Basically she’s betraying us so she can join who she thinks would win the war.”

“That’s preposterous! Millona wouldn’t give herself up, or betray the West! Where would she go if she were to surrender her town?”

“Since Lex is already vying to take away Indarys’ control, I’d say she will be able to keep her town, but she would not be a co-leader of Lex’s region. He hates all of that co-leader stuff. I realize he doesn’t make those wishes public, but it is very easy to see. Why would he let yet another leader to the East?”

“That’s just crazy. However, let’s take hypothetically here, and ask ourselves what if that plan idea does go in motion, what should we do?” Torlin asked, though he still wasn’t sold on Vaden’s theory.

“I am in no way a military-expert, by any means in fact. However, if what I say does in fact happen, Lex will wait until the South is captured, because that would be very stupid of him to start a war with two Regions, albeit Anvil would be on his side. For now I think we are safe, but we should definitely be taking some precautions.”

Immediately Torlin began laughing his head off. “This is just stupid, Vaden. Umbranox isn’t going to betray us.”

“Well why don’t we just ask the leader of our city, Torlin?”

The two looked at me, waiting for a response. To be honest I was sort of siding with Vaden on this one. Well, I take that back. I don’t think Umbranox is likely to betray us, but on the other hand it could happen. Countess Umbranox isn’t the most aboveboard person in the world after all. There are many scenarios that can happen.

“While I don’t actually think the Countess of Anvil will be betraying us anytime soon, the things Vaden have said do make sense. We never really have had a smooth relationship with Anvil anyway. I don’t what will happen, but I think I will have to have a meeting with the Council tomorrow to talk about it.”

Then Vaden spoke up again, “Good, I’m glad to hear that. You really should be thinking about what I’m saying.”

“I still refuse to believe it,” Torlin said harshly with his arms crossed.

“That’s fine, Torlin, because in all honesty I really don’t care. But mark my words: if anyone were to try and take control of Cyrodiil, they will have to heed the help of a foreign army. And we all know Lex wants all of Cyrodiil, not just part of it. That’s all I’m saying…wake me up when we get home.”

Vaden took his helmet and placed it over his shut eyes, trying to fall asleep. Torlin looked at me, rolled his eyes, and then copied Vaden.


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


We arrived back home at one of the morning, and that’s when I thought of something. If Lex was a good person, which I realize he’s not, he would have surely offered me a room in the castle. It was too dangerous for a lord to travel late and night, but yet he offered no such hospitality. This only fuels my anger towards Lex even more and I now realize what must be done. Rachel will probably think it is drastic, but I don’t care.

It is time to go to war with the Eastern Region. As crazy as that will sound to many of my advisors, actually all three of them, this must be done. Vaden is right, the East will eventually make their way onto my territory, that much is certain. And this situation with Umbranox is getting stranger every time I think about it.

However, that leads to what Vaden also said in the carriage: if anyone were to try and take control of Cyrodiil, they will have to heed the help of a foreign army I completely agree with this without any doubts whatsoever. Of course, I am getting way ahead of myself here. I first need to talk with my wife.

She was sitting in a chair, reading a book, when I walked in. “Louis, finally you’re home. Did everything go smoothly?”

I didn’t answer the question at once, and I threw my robe onto the bed and put on some night-clothes. Rachel could tell I was upset, and immediately tried to calm my nerves.

I was sitting on the edge of the bed with my balled-hands under my chin, thinking deeply. Rachel sat her book on a table and walked over to me, sitting right beside me. Then she stroked me hair with her smooth hand and asked, “Honey, are you alright?”

I looked into Rachel’s eyes and replied, “It is time to go to war to the East, Rachel.”

She just looked at me with wondrous eyes, not saying a thing. After several minutes of awkward silence she said, “Come; let us talk outside on the balcony, Louis.”

It was kind of funny, because every time we talk about something important it is usually done outside on our balcony. I had it added onto the castle when I first moved in as Count. No one can hear us because we are up so high up, and I don’t know…I just feel so free, with the wind blowing in my face and the birds flying nearby. I love it.

I told Rachel everything that happened in the Imperial City, and once I was finished she said, after a few seconds of more silence, “Well, after hearing that I’d say I have to agree with you. However, I think waging war against the East is a tad bit premature, Louis.”

“But Rachel, what in the world do you think Lex will do once they take control of the South? They will come after us eventually, and sooner than later I should add! The South won’t last much longer. The North is too well-defended, and he will wait for them last. It all makes sense, honey. He will attack us soon, and I think we should make the first move.”

She shook her head slightly and looked at the ground. “I don’t know. What you say does in fact make sense. I just hope you aren’t trying to disprove what Lex said about you, not being a good leader and all. I fear your ego is getting the best of you.”

“My ego? That has nothing to do with this!” I yelled angrily.

She narrowed her eyes and gave me that ‘oh, really?’ look. Then I added while throwing me hands up in the air, “Alright, I’ll admit it, he did piss me off by saying that. But, I just can’t see how you could disagree with what I’ve told you. Lex wants Cyrodiil for himself, and he will stop at nothing until he gets his way. It is so clear. I just wish you would believe me.”

“The truth is that I do believe you, Louis. I just don’t want to. I don’t want to think that we are on the brink of war. That’s never happened to us before, and up until now we’ve had peace. Are you positively sure you want to go through with what you’re talking about? If so, then I’m with you all the way from here on out.”

I put my arm around her and said, “Yes, Rachel, I am sure. Tomorrow morning we will hold a meeting with our advisors, and we’ll just go from there.”

“You know they won’t like your idea, Louis.”

“Yes, yes, I know. It will take some effort to sway them on my side, but I think I can do it. Deep down they know it is the truth, and hopefully they will accept it tomorrow morning without too much hassle.”


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


The next morning I woke up earlier than usual, six-thirty to be exact. Rachel woke up with me and we quickly bathed, got dressed, and headed downstairs to the throne room. The servants and maids were already getting things cleaned up for public visitations and whatnot. I called them all over to me, and then told them of my plans.

“I will be holding a meeting here with my Council at nine o’clock this morning at the assembly room. I would like a full course meal to be prepared, for I want them to be happy and comfortable for what I have to say.”

Everyone scattered and started the preparations. I then called for my personal courier, Jacque the Breton, and asked him to deliver messages to my three advisors, requesting their appearance at the meeting.

“Would you please travel the homes of my advisors, and inform them that there is to be a meeting this morning at ten o’clock?”

“Of course, my lord,” Jacque said with a bow.

“Thank you. Tell them not to eat, because there will be food and drink at the meeting.”

He nodded and then bolted from the castle. Soon Danus came in from outside to ask about the meeting yesterday.

“How did things go with Hieronymus, my lord?”

“Not as well as I would’ve hoped for, but there’s something else. I am holding a meeting at nine ‘clock in the assembly room. It is of utmost importance, and I want you and Dion to attend the meeting as well.”

“Of course, my lord. Is there anything you’d like me to do beforehand?”

“Yes, inform Dion of the meeting and make sure he is present.”

He nodded and then quickly left the room.

“What do plan on saying once the Council shoots down your request of war?” Rachel asked me, several minutes after he had sat down on our thrones.

She was actually smiling after the question, and I crack a grin as well. I know that it’s going to take some explaining and persuasive words to convince the Advisors that war is the answer, but I am more than up for the challenging. I wasn’t a personal diplomat many years for nothing.

“Oh, you know me, dear. Quick thinking and a sharp and persistent tongue was my life before Count-hood, you know,” I said winking.

Then again, I won’t be dealing with a bunch of know-nothing rejects. My advisors are extremely wise and intelligent, which is why I hired them in the first place.

One of them is a slick, elderly Breton by the name of Maxillius Grantum. He was an ambassador over in his homeland of High Rock for some time before moving to Cyrodiil about fifteen years ago. He’s the most cunning out of the three, and knows a lot about a lot, if you know what I mean.

The second is a Dunmer named Alammus Berendal. ‘Al’ is my foreign-relations specialist. He keeps an eye on the surrounding provinces and makes sure that we aren’t going to be ambushed and attacked. He’s very good with words and can persuade almost anyone to do anything.

Finally there is Emelia Ceno, the only female of the group. Rachel made sure I appointed a female, but I was going to either way. Emelia is a hot-headed know-it-all, plain and simple. I hate to talk about one of my advisors that way, but she is arrogant sometimes. Even Rachel notices this, but it’s not like we can just dismiss Emelia, simply because she is very intelligent economically. She’s one of the main reasons I have her on board the Council, but if it wasn’t for that she probably wouldn’t even be here right now. I expect her to be the most enraged once I tell the Council I want war.

At fifteen minutes before nine o’clock Rachel and I left our seats on the throne and walked over to the assembly room, and then sat down at the wide circular table. It wasn’t too big of an area, but it wasn’t tiny either. Like the balcony I also had this part of the castle added once I was named Count. Hassildor didn’t really have a council of advisors or anything like them for that matter.

Inside the food and drinks were already placed on the table. There were all kinds of choices; including meats, fruits, vegetables, different types of nuts, and even pies and cakes for dessert. Then of course there was plenty of wine, but also different juices and milk as well.

Soon Dion and Danus filed in, and shortly after that the three advisors arrived one by one as well. The seven of us talked about common things for around thirty minutes or so, drinking the wine and eating the food. Then I stood from my chair and room quickly fell silent.

“As much fun as I have talking about nothing,” I said with a nice smile, and then waited for the laughs to die down. “There are important things we must discuss.” Now I was being totally serious, and my face of laughter was replaced with one of importance. “After my trip to the Imperial City yesterday, I have been thinking and hard about the future of Skingrad, and Cyrodiil as a whole.”

The advisors eyes shifted back and forth at one another, and my two officers looked puzzled as well.

“After my discussion with Lex I have come to the conclusion that it is time to declare war on the Eastern Empire.”

Immediately the room filled with shouts from the advisors, especially Emelia. Dion looked at me, slightly nodding his head, as did Danus. The two of them knew this moment was going to happen sooner than later.

“Absurd! Why would you want to put your country through such a thing? Think about the people, Louis! Is this really necessary?”

Emelia was livid with her questions and statements. She was also worried about our economy; she just didn’t want to say so yet.

“This is for the people, Lady Ceno. Soon the East will be marching through our land and pounding down our doors with their own army. We need to strike before we are caught off guard!”

I was trying to sound as forceful as possible, and I wanted them to know I was serious. I wasn’t going to take no for an answer.

“And think about our economy as well! We will plummet if you choose to go to war! I just don’t think it is necessary. Why do you think he will come after us, Louis?”

I told her and the other advisors about Countess Umbranox, and after I was done I was still met with stiff resistance from Emelia.

“She doesn’t have to get your permission to talk with Lex, Louis. I think you are going overboard with this,” Alammus exclaimed.

“No, that is not the case. She wanted to get out of there as soon as possible when she saw me, and Lex was acting strange as well.”

Emelia looked at me for several seconds, and then said, “This is crazy, simply crazy! But I can see you aren’t going to listen to me, and because of that I will close my mouth for now.”

She then crossed her arms, and in my opinion looked like a complete immature baby. Of course I wasn’t going to tell her that.

“If in fact we were to go to war, how would our army stack up against Cheydinhal and the Legion?” Maxillius asked. I believe he was leaning towards my way, but just wanted to know a couple of things before giving me the heads-up.

This is when Danus stepped up from his chair and began to speak.

“Our forces are more than capable of fighting the Legion in open area. Though, laying a siege onto their city would definitely be a problem. Their walls are of course very high, and it would be easy for us to get surrounded. If a full scale invasion is in order, we need to cut off the, “Tiber Bridge”, which connects the city’s island with the rest of the province. If we can create a blockade then they would be forced to come out and fight, or wait for Cheydinhal reinforcements.”

“Very well, that sounds sensible. What about Countess Umbranox? Before we do anything we need to speak with her. She needs to explain to us why she was visiting Lex in the first place, and why she didn’t say anything to us about it,” Maxillius said while slamming his fist on the table. Apparently he’s just as suspicious about the situation as I am.

Of course I agreed with that. “That is true. I think I should teleport to Anvil at once and demand explanation. I realize she doesn’t have to get a written permission from me to talk to Lex, but it’s still awkward, especially at a time when the East is at war with the South. She should have said something to first.”

“You can use the teleportation chambers at the Mages Guild. There is no time to talk here anymore, I’m afraid. Also, I think its best if only I go with you, Louis, and your honor-guards of course,” Maxillius said quickly.

“Everyone stay here while Maxillius and I pay Umbranox a visit. There we shall ask her why she was in the Imperial City. I don’t know how long we’ll be gone, but just stay put. Dion, fetch my honor-guards, please.” I kissed Rachel on the cheek and left quickly. Things were certainly happening fast.

Within minutes I was standing inside the Mages Guild, accompanied by Maxillius, Vaden and Torlin. A young Breton had led us to the teleportation chambers, and was now activating it.

“I’m happy to see you agree with my theory, my lord,” Vaden said to me with a smile.

But of course Torlin didn’t believe it at all. “Why would Anvil betray us?” Torlin asked.

“Because she probably struck a deal with Lex, and now he will send troops to bolster up Anvil’s army. We all know that as they are now, Anvil’s army is nothing but bunch of untrained militia. Lady Umbranox has lost the will to be the great leader she once was. It doesn’t matter, Torlin, I already explained all of this to you on the way back from the Imperial City.”

“But why would Anvil need to add to their military if they’re not even in a war?” Torlin asked.

“Because…Anvil will soon side with East in a conquest against the West, meaning us if you’re not smart enough to figure it out yourself,” Vaden said while rolling his eyes.

Torlin was about to say something in return, no doubt to defend himself from Vaden’s last sentence, but Maxillius quickly stepped in once he sensed an argument was about to start.

“Why do you Anvil will betray us, Vaden?” Maxillius asked.

“I don’t know, it’s just a feeling I have. I mean, when’s the last time you even spoke with Lady Umbranox about anything, my lord?” Vaden asked me.

“I can’t really remember. It’s been a while, I know that. We’ve sent a few letters back and forth a few months ago, but that’s about it.”

“Exactly! She’s been planning something this entire time, I just know it!” Vaden exclaimed.

“Well, for the East it would be a sensible decision to receive aid from Anvil, then they would be able to attack us from both sides,” Maxillius said. “We’ll just have to see once we speak with Lady Umbranox.”

The activation of the chamber was at last complete, and then finally the four of us stepped through the magical portal.

[Steve]

Ahh! Things are just happening perfectly!
FINALLY, A STORY WITH MASSIVE WARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Redsrock, you have me stuck on this thing. You have created a superb story, and I applaud you!

I really hope Anvil won't betray Skingrad. To put it bluntly, they are probably my top two favorite cities! And a war between them would be terrible!....
But, it would be kind of cool!
Indeed, all possible scenarios look great! I shall eagerly wait for more!

[redsrock]

Thanks, Steve. I'm hoping to get the next chapter tomorrow night, but we'll just have to see.

[redsrock]

A LOT of dialogue in this chapter, but I swear, after this the plot starts to unfold and good stuff is just around the corner.....

CHAPTER FOUR


We teleported instantly to the Anvil Mages Guild, and an old Dunmer lady was sitting on nearby stool, mumbling something about the future. We of course did not have time for such nonsense, and I led my entourage straight through the guild building without uttering a word to anyone. I received a few questionable looks from the local mages, as if I was barging in impolitely, but I really didn't care at this point.

I led the four us in a directly through the sea of locals who were too busy milling about, gossiping and shopping, too ignorant to realize that the Count of Skingrad was gracing them with his presence. Of course, I am not surprised by this at all. Countess Umbranox does a good of job of not informing her people of the many happenings throughout Cyrodiil. Most of their information comes from secondhand-guessers, and guesses they merely are. In fact, Umbranox doesn't really give her citizens much of anything.

Inside the castle, Countess Umbranox was talking loudly with several of her personal advisors. I had recommended long ago that she assemble a council of her own, and she did that. Unfortunately her ‘advisors' are just as ignorant as her citizens are to my presence. All five of them know nothing, and yet they think they know everything. I absolutely hate those types of people, the ones strutting around like they own all of Tamriel. Such a personality can easily get my blood boiling if I am not careful.

As soon as she saw the four of us walk through the ironed double doors she immediately shut her mouth, and then quickly motioned for her big-mouthed advisors to do the same.

"Louis, it's good to see you; it's been a while, you know. How are you?"

Her welcome was anything but that. She didn't care about me; she only wanted to know what I was doing in her city. I could see the weariness in her eyes; she wanted nothing to do with me right now. Getting caught meeting with Lex was a mistake for her, and she knew this as well. It was plain on her tanned Imperial face.

"Millona, I need to speak with you in private," I said with no emotion. I could feel the burn of her advisors' stares hitting me in the face, but I paid them attention. I had not the time for their foolish bickering, which is all they do.

Countess Umbranox motioned for her advisors to leave, and then did, reluctantly. "Come with me to my chambers, please. I wish to speak with you alone."

I motioned for my honor-guards to stay put, but I wasn't going to do the same with Maxillius. He was here for a reason, and that wasn't to sit idly while I do the talking. "I am sorry, Millona, but Maxillius is with me for a reason. He will be joining in on our conversation."

She took a quick glance at him and replied, "Very well. Follow me."

The three of us ascended up a flight of pearl-white stairs, and then down a hallway decorated with many flowers and paintings. It was a shame that while her own castle was lavishly festooned with the most expensive items and arts, her town was a complete dump. That made me sick as well. She forced her citizens to wallow in utter trash and ugliness while she sat upon her throne, drinking expenses wines, watching her people drink from a dirty well. She's changed drastically ever since the rectification of Cyrodiil began.

Once inside her room, Millona Umbranox closed the door behind us, but unlike Hieronymus she did not lock the door as well. She pulled up a couple of chairs from over by our desk, and then requested that Maxillius and I take a seat. As we did she pulled up a chair for herself, one of more quality and comfortableness of course.

"I know why you're here, Louis," She said directly while folding her arms in her lap. "You are wondering why I was in the presence of Lex and Andel, correct?"

I looked her in the eye and said, "Yes, that is obvious. I want to know why you didn't mention anything to me about visiting the Imperial City. It seems a bit odd, don't you think? Especially when you know the East is at war with the South. I'm curious to hear what you're explanation is."

"Well, just so you know I was planning on telling you something eventually, I just haven't had time to let things settle in just yet. A very important document of mine was stolen from my personal chambers just a week ago. We did not catch the thief, but two days ago we did happen to catch a Legion spy sneaking through the castle. He didn't admit to be working for Lex, but we found enough evidence to throw him in jail either way, obviously."

I immediately looked at Maxillius, and he was just as surprised as I was. I wasn't expecting to hear what Umbranox just told me.

"A spy infiltrated your castle and stole something, and then you actually caught another one, two days later?"

"Yes, that's exactly what happened. When we caught the second one I realized it had to be the doings of Lex. So I traveled to speak with him, and get an explanation. When I arrived he was talking with Count Indarys, so I had to wait a little bit. But he called me into his room, and I talked with him and Indarys. Of course, as you know Lex, he did his best to weasel out of all accusations, and I was given nothing. He says the spies aren't his, but I don't believe it."

"Well, that's Lex for you," I said.

"Now that I think about it," she said with a sort of chuckle, "I should be asking you these same questions. You were there before I left the Imperial City, and you never told me anything about speaking with Lex. That's sort of hypocritical, if you ask me," she said, narrowing her brown eyes onto mine.

"Ironically I was there for the same reasons as you. We caught a spy walking around through the castle corridors two days ago; however I have not noticed anything missing from my own chambers, or anywhere else for that matter."

Countess Umbranox raised her eyes and then let out a sigh. "So you were spied on as well? I don't know why. As for my own city, I fear Lex has figured out where his prized possession is. After me having it for so long I knew he'd figure it out sooner or later," She said while shaking her head slightly.

I was totally perplexed by her words. "What do you mean, ‘prized possession'?"

She sighed once again and replied, "I've kept it hidden for several years now. After Lex began vying control of the Legion I knew he'd go for it sooner or later. I'm just surprised it's taken him this long to figure out I have it."

"Huh? You stole something from Lex? What was it?"

"I'm sorry, Louis. I probably should have told you from the beginning, but I was too afraid. The power of this item is very magical, yet extremely evil if in the wrong hands. And even when in the right hands, the power is just so tempting that you want to use it. But no, oh no…that can never happen."

All of these riddles and hints were starting to get on my nerves. "Millona, what in the world are you talking about?"

"I know Lex's ultimate goal, and I've known this as soon as he stared getting friendly with Chancellor Ocato after the Oblivion Crisis. It is to gain control of Cyrodiil in an attempt to name himself the new Emperor of Cyrodiil, thus forcing the cities back to their old ways. It was so easy to see in the beginning, I just had to act. As we all know, he tried to get himself put up for Emperor-ship as soon as the Oblivion Crisis was over. Once his request was shot down by the Council, I am sure he immediately started to plan."

She was still giving me riddles, though little by little she was also getting to the point. Because of this I stood still, content for the time being with sitting and listening.

"When he disappeared for a few months, everyone, including you, simply thought he went into hiding out of embarrassment of the rejection from the Council. However, I thought deeper than that. Lex is a man of strong will; nobody can deny him that certain aspect. I did believe he was hiding, but for far more than just pouting. He was planning somewhere, on taking the position by force. He ordered the killings of Chancellor Ocato and the other two Councilors. I know this for a fact!"

"What? Where is the proof of these postulations?" Maxillius asked sternly.

Countess Umbranox abruptly stood from here chair and walked over to her desk. She pulled out several parchments from her drawer and then brought them over to Maxillius, handing them to him with an emotionless face.

"These are the personal notes and letters from Lex and his assassins. As you can see he always addressed his men, and possibly a woman, with code-names and whatnot. Though he didn't do a good job of it, for I have deciphered several names myself. The former Imperial Officers Audens Avidius, Itius Hayn, and Giovanni Civello were just a few of the ones involved in the murders and disappearances of the many diplomats and Imperial officers. I am sure you remember the bloody catastrophes."

I sure did remember the horrific events. People disappeared and died left and right. I had assumed Lex was involved with this, but I never did stop to think about who helped him with the dirty deed.

I then stood up from my own chair and walked over to get a look at the old parchments.

"But those officers disappeared shortly after Lex took over. A lot of us assumed that they were plotting against him, and he had them killed, kidnapped, or something else," Maxillius said.

"Oh no, Councilor Grantum. Lex had nothing to do with those particular disappearances," Millona said with a slight grin. "The credit goes to me and my own spies and hired assassins."

"What do you mean?" I asked, now even more confused.

"When I began to realize what he was doing, I sent several spies to take a look at Lex's personal belongings. I did this as soon as possible because I knew for a while he would be busy appointing new ambassadors, officer, and other things. I knew his security for the time being wouldn't be very tight. Thankfully I was right and my men were able to retrieve many, many documents and articles."

"This isn't all you have? These missions to kill, there are more?" I asked.

"Oh yes, but most of what we found were ideas and notes jotted down with much haste. What you are looking at now is the best of what I have. Everything else I have is mainly journal entries."

"What do they say?"

"Nothing much really. Just thoughts on the Mythic Dawn situation mainly. Unfortunately it seems his entries halted once the crisis was over. Either that or he has others hidden away somewhere else."

"So your men killed the officers. Why did you have them do this?" Maxillius asked.

"Because I felt the need to do away with the traitors. If I knew who the other murders were, believe me, I would have had them sought out and killed as well. I don't take kindly to backstabbers."

I was going to ask then why not go after Lex, but obviously with his extreme case of paranoia that wouldn't be an easy task. So instead I inquired about a different subject, one that was itching at my brain, something I really wanted to know.

"Why have you done all of this? Just to spite Lex and anger him? If so then I really don't get it. Why waste all the time and let your men wander on such dangers territory so willingly? And why haven't you told anyone?"

"Because my spies were trying to find an actual plan on taking over Cyrodiil; possibly a list on whom he wanted to invade first, who to eliminate first. You know, all of those matters. I didn't tell anyone because, and this is no offence to you two, I trust no one. My spies were also looking for something else as well, but unfortunately Lex got to it and moved it to another location."

"And what item is that?" I asked.

"It's the ‘prized possession' I was talking about, thought it is not an ‘item', per se. Hieronymus Lex is after a Elder Scroll."

Maxillius immediately dropped all of the parchments to the ground in amazement.

An actual elder scroll? I said to myself. But how could that be?

"Did you just say what I think you said?" Maxillius said, still with his jaw dropped in astonishment.

"Yes, you heard me correctly, Councilor Grantum. I have an Elder Scroll in my possession, and it is currently locked safely away for the time being."

"But I thought all of the scrolls were burnt by Lex when he stepped in as Commander?"

She had a smile on her face, and then said, "No, wrong again I'm afraid. Lex did destroy most of the scrolls, and eliminated a high majority of the moth priests as well. However, he kept one scroll and one priest."

"Why?"

"Don't you understand? He only wanted us to think he was getting rid of the scrolls and priests. He did this to make it look realistic, like he was being serious. But my spy found this just the other week, inside a vault deep within the Imperial City compounds. I have to say, I'm very surprised his security isn't tighter than it is now."

She walked over to her drawer and pulled out yet another parchment, this one old and wrinkly. She handed the piece of ancient paper to Maxillius "Here, this is the diary note one of my men found just the other day," and then he read it out loud.

The scroll has been gone for months on months now, but I still have half of the divine-plan hidden away where no one will find him. Until I find that scroll he will never see the light of day, but that doesn't matter too much since his sight is much less enhanced than the regular eye. I cannot even think of taking the chance of him getting away, or kidnapped. Talos know the thieving Umbranox will no doubt be after him next. I cannot let her find him. I won't let her find him.

"I understand," I exclaimed. "Lex has the last priest, and I know this because of the line from the passage, ‘Until I find that scroll he will never see the light of day, but that doesn't matter too much since his sight is much less enhanced than the regular eye.' And you, Millona, have the last scroll."

"Exactly!" She yelled excitedly. "It is a game of cat and mouse now, with me being the cat and he the mouse. I will not make a move, and will instead wait, no matter how long it will take."

"I wonder why he hasn't just sent his army to take the scroll by force."

"Because it is too dangerous. He doesn't even know where the scroll is. By coming to Anvilhe would have to pass through your city's territory and your fort. Your soldiers, although not the same quantity, hold the same, if not greater, quality. Believe me; he has no intention of fighting Skingrad at the moment. He doesn't want to lose a large amount of his men just to realize the scroll isn't even in Anvil. No, he will wait until he knows the exact location."

"Then why has he been spying on me?"

She looked at ground for a second with her arms crossed, thinking deeply. "To be honest I really can't answer that. I will say that there's likely nothing to worry about. I'm sure he has spies in every city, even Cheydinhal for that matter. Besides, you said nothing has been stolen. If that's the case then I'm more than sure you'll be okay. The future is another story, but for now I wouldn't worry about his army marching towards your gates. It just wouldn't make any sense."

"Very well, then. Where do we go from here?"

"That, I am afraid," She said with a wink and a smile, "will have to wait until tonight's dinner."

This post has been edited by redsrock: Apr 20 2008, 02:34 PM

[minque]

By all nine Divines! You done it again redsie! Your style is just so professional it's a sheer joy to read your work. I don't know what to say, you probably heard all exclamations already...

I bet you make a living out of writing!!!!

[redsrock]

By all nine Divines! You done it again redsie! Your style is just so professional it's a sheer joy to read your work. I don't know what to say, you probably heard all exclamations already...

I bet you make a living out of writing!!!!

Minque! How are you? Sorry about not looking at your own stories. I just haven't gotten around to reading "Serene" over at TEFU.

Thank you for the kind words. Unfortunately I fear the first chapter has forced a lot of people to turn away from the story. I don't know, but looking back it's DEFINTELY not the same quality of the rest. A little too much spoon-feeding, but oh well.

How do you like the characters so far? Do they seem real enough for you?

[minque]

Heh...well I'll just keep posting...one of these days someone will comment!

Now as for your charachters, they are vivid....so far! Just don't forget to keep them that way once the war is commencing! That is one thing I've noticed, often the mechanics of warfare overrides the charachter development and that's a shame! I mean the persons are still persons even if they're fighting for their lives.

Now I do have confidence in you that you will continue the descriptions 0f how they feel and look like even during big fights...

[Steve]

Really nice addition!
Your writing is so good indeed.
Your new title seems interesting. I did like the original one too, but this also isn't bad. Are you using this for the contest?

[redsrock]

Really nice addition!
Your writing is so good indeed.
Your new title seems interesting. I did like the original one too, but this also isn't bad. Are you using this for the contest?

When I finish this piece, it will likely be over 20,000 words, and I have already submitted a piece for that category. I have no intentions on writing anything else for the contest. The last time I tried to write something specifically for the contest it was crap. I was too focused on the contest, rather than having fun...which is what is really all about, you know?

[redsrock]

CHAPTER FIVE


Ten minutes later I found myself sitting at a round table with Maxillius and Millona. Unlike me Millona didn’t seem to have meals with all kinds of dishes laid out onto the table. Instead the three of us ordered our own separate meal to the castle chef. He was a plump Imperial, with a thick mustache to match.

I ordered roasted racer plumes, an order of raw vegetables, and a glass of Tamika’s Vintage wine. I really wasn’t too hungry, since I had just finished breakfast no more than two hours ago, but I didn’t want to be rude. Although, it was twelve-thirty in the afternoon. To me it was too early for dinner, but oh well; I guess it doesn’t really matter.

“I have an idea of my own about what we should do, but I would first like to hear your opinions,” Millona said to me and Maxillius.

“Well, this was another matter I wanted to discuss with you, Millona. I have decided that war is the only way to stop Lex from reaching his plans dominance. I feel my army is capable of handling his troops, and we need to stop him before he finally does get his hands on the scroll.”

Millona didn’t at all agree with what I was saying, and she made this clear by raising her eyes and shaking her head left to right.

“War? How in the world do you think that is going to solve anything?”

“Because we will invade our region sooner or later! Surely you must realize this?”

“Of course I do,” she said while rolling her eyes. “But that doesn’t mean I’m about to send my men to die when there is no immediate reason. The East is at war with the South right now. We should let Lex stay busy with them while we try to find that priest.”

I wasn’t sure what to think. I wanted nothing more than to eliminate the threat of the East, but on the other hand I suppose Millona has a point. I mean, even my advisors told me the exact same thing, save for the ancestor priest, yet I just don’t know. After what Lex said to me in the Imperial City, about me not being as good a leader as Hassildor was, I want to prove him wrong. Of course I don’t want to make a deadly mistake in the process.

“What you say makes sense, Millona, but I am still not sure. With our help I think we can help the South win the war. And in doing so we…”

Millona quickly cut me off and finished my sentence for me. “will allow the South to gain the upper hand against all of Cyrodiil! You know the Southern leaders are just as malevolent as Lex is. Even if we were to help them win the war, they would settle for nothing less than their occupation of the Imperial City and Cheydinhal. You know this, Louis.”

She was right, I had to admit that. And then she added something else.

“And that would result in a whole other war, because we definitely wouldn’t let them occupy the East region. I think it is just best that we let them keep killing each other off while we look for the priest. That is the most important thing right now anyway.”

I thought about what she said, weighed in my own opinions, and ultimately agreed that war was not the answer, at least for the time being. Who knows what the future would bring. For now I was content on standing pat.

“Very well, you’re right. We shouldn’t rush war if it’s not absolutely necessary. However, I do have a few more questions before I take my leave. Where are you hiding the elder scroll?”

She stood over Maxillius’s shoulder, and said, “I’m sorry, but I cannot tell anyone. It’s too dangerous. Surely you understand,” she said, rather bluntly.

I didn’t really understand, since I was her ally, but then again her intentions are for the best, and I can’t argue with that. “Fair enough. One last question then; should we alert the North and South of Lex’s doings?”

“Not for now,” she said, shaking her head forcefully. “For the moment we shall conduct our own investigations, quite secretly of course. I think we should talk more about this tomorrow. Shall I come to Skingrad around noon?”

“Yes, that sounds alright. I’ll make sure to have my servants and maids prepare lunch. Or in your case, dinner,” I said jokingly, referring that she called a meal a noon ‘dinner’.

“I’m sure you will,” she said with a small weak and a wide smile.


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


Back in Skingrad, everyone was still sitting in the assembly room, anxiously awaiting my return. As soon I as entered the room they immediately started pounding me with questions. I quickly motioned for everyone to stay silent, and then I reiterated to them what Countess Umbranox told me. I told them gave them Umbranox’s explanation to why she was in the Imperial City, and then I told them about Lex’s documents, the elder scroll, and then the priest.

“A scroll, a priest, and an angry Imperial, eh?” Alammus asked, grinning at bit from the last part of his sentence. There was no doubt in my mind Lex was at the moment pulling hairs from his head, from the frustration of not knowing where the scroll is.

“Yes, and as of now Lex has no clue where the scroll is, and unfortunately neither do I. Millona wasn’t willing to bestow its location.”

“Which shouldn’t be surprising,” Maxillius added. “She trusts you, Louis, there’s no doubt in that, for I could see it in her face and hear it in her voice. It’s just that there really is no particular reason to tell you. The scroll is safe and that’s really all that matters.”

“Yes, I no, it’s just that I get nosy sometimes.”

Then Emelia commented, quite rudely, “You can say that again. Well, it’s good to hear that at least someone has a bit of common sense. Millona is an intelligent being for realizing war is not the answer. I know Lex made you made by what he said about your leadership, Louis, but that is no reason to lose control of your feelings.”

I wanted to say something back, but instead I ignored her. I wasn’t in the mood for arguing. “Millona will be arriving here in our city tomorrow, at noon. A full meal will be prepared, but only Rachel and I will be present. For now I wish for you all to ponder what you have heard, and then we will conduct another meeting once Millona leaves.”

After everyone was gone, including my two honor-guards who were now standing near my throne, it was just Rachel and I inside the assembly room. I could tell something was bugging her, so I asked her what’s wrong.

“Is something bothering you?”

“I just don’t like what’s going on, that’s all. It seems to strange that Umbranox knows all of this information and has never told us before.”

“I agree full-heartedly, but what are we to do? After all these years of thinking Lex is the bad guy, do you really want to change your mind and think it’s Millona we should be worrying about?”

“I think we should be keeping on eye on both of them.”

“What are you saying?” I whispered. “You want to spy on Millona?”

“Not here, Louis. We’ll talk about it tonight. I have an idea, and I think you’ll be willing to at least listen…”

[Steve]

The plot thickens....
Oh! It's so wonderful! lol
This is really getting good Redsrock. I can't wait for the additions.
I wish I could give any sort of suggestion, but your writing is just too nice!!!!

It's good to see that the Countess of Anvil isn't a bad guy(lady?) after all. I was afraid of that you know... I'm mad though war won't be coming any time soon.... but, I can live with that!!!

[redsrock]

Don't worry, now things will pick up...

[redsrock]

Short, but to the point.

CHAPTER SIX


“We need to keep a close watch on Millona.”

It was now ten o’clock at night, and once again Rachel and I were sitting outside on our balcony. I had been waiting while a servant brought me two bottles of wine. I’m now a nervous wreck, for I know what my wife has in mind. She mentioned something like this long ago, and I paid it no attention then. I wish I could do the same now, but I fear that would be a mistake.

“Are you even listening, Louis?”

I was in fact listening to her, but only partially. I was more interested in gazing up into the sky, with its bright stars glimmering down upon us. They just floated around as if they had not a care in the world. I wish my life was like that. Unfortunately it was not.

“Yes, I’m listening, Rachel. So, what do you suggest?”

“I don’t trust Millona a bit, and you know this. If you ask me I think she’s bluffing entirely. She may have the scroll, and she may be looking for that priest, but I think she wants it for herself. She knows her army cannot even dream of standing up against ours, and if she has the scroll and the priest then she will have all the answers. The priest will decipher the scroll and Millona see what must be done in order to gain what she wants.”

“And that is?”

“The same as Lex and the same as the South. She wants total control, Louis. She’s a conniving woman, and an intelligent one at that. She’s very dangerous, and if you ask me I think she is more dangerous than Lex himself.”

I looked at her crazily and said, “And why the hell would you think that?”

“Simple. She’s playing the ally-card right now. She thinks you’re too naïve to even dream she would ever betray us. And sadly, it seems she’s right. I’m telling you, Louis, send a spy and have him take a look through the castle.”

“What if our spy finds doesn’t find anything?”

“What if he does?”

I sat and stared back into the skies, and pondered what wife had just laid before me. There were several options. I could stick to what I wanted to believe, and wait for the meeting tomorrow before making a decision. I could send the spy now so he can search Millona’s castle and chambers while she is in my city. I decided on the former.

“We will wait until speaking with Millona tomorrow. After that I shall make my decision on this matter. Let us sleep now. I am very tired.


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


The next morning I woke up bright and early, and so did Rachel. We bathed and got dressed as soon as possible, and then went downstairs to our thrones. There we waited roughly three hours, and at noon Millona appeared through the doors with three bodyguards.

“Good morning, Louis,” Millona said, and then added to my wife, “And how are you, Rachel. It’s been a long time.” She said this without much emotion, and to be honest Millona could care less about how Rachel feels.

“Yes, it has,” Rachel said bluntly. It was easy to tell that the two weren’t really that happy with each other, though I never could tell why. It just always seemed like there was always a dark cloud hanging above them whenever they met.

The three of us entered the assembly hall and sat down at the table. The food was there, just as planned, except the foods present were foods you would find at dinner, not lunch or breakfast. I figured I might as well make Millona as comfortable as possible.

“Welcome to Skingrad, Millona,” I said after drinking some of my wine. “What do you think of the city? I know you haven’t visited since I became Count,” I said amusingly, with a small chuckle.

“Ah, that is true, and I apologize for that. The city is very beautiful, and the market area has flourished since the last time I saw it. Very impressive, Louis.”

Enough of the small talk. I was interested in getting down to business. “So, is there anything else I should know about our little situation?”

Millona swallowed a piece of deer meat and then said, “Nothing much. My men have already excavated the Temple of the Ancestor Moths. We found nothing, not a thing. There weren’t any dead bodies lying on the floor, and there weren’t any documents lying around. We even checked the houses and the chapel, and again, nothing. Lex must have gotten there before us.”

“So there’s nothing we can do but sit and watch the East fight with the South?” Rachel asked, a little rudely.

“Oh no, of course not. I we need to send spies to the cities of Cheydinhal and the Imperial City, especially Cheydinhal.”

“Why?” I asked, a little confused on the last part.

“Because it would only make sense, at least in my opinion. In our talks yesterday, Louis, how many times did we focus on Cheydinhal?”

“Not many…”

“Exactly, and Lex I am sure realizes this. I think if he does have any important documents, I believe they are hidden somewhere in Cheydinhal. In fact, I have reason to believe the Priest is there as well.”

“That’s ridiculous! Why the hell would Lex hand over the priest to Count Indarys?” Rachel was starting to get mad, and I kicked her leg slightly under the table, trying to calm her down.

“Because he doesn’t think we would expect it. Maybe you don’t, Rachel, but I do. That is why I will send my agents to Cheydinhal, and you shall send yours to the Imperial City.”

“Hold on, we haven’t agreed to anything yet…” Rachel said a little loudly.

I tapped her arm and said, “Why are you so intent on us going to the Imperial City? If nothing is there, what’s the point of looking?”

She sort of sighed, looked at the ground for a couple of seconds, and then said, “Very well, you are probably right. How about we conduct a joint-operation? One of your agents teams up with one of mine?”

Despite what Rachel obviously felt, I was kind of intrigued by the idea of a joint operation. “Alright, I agree. I’m not really sure if there is anything in Cheydinhal, but there’s only one way to find out. When shall we conduct the operation?”

“I’d say as soon as possible. Maybe tomorrow morning we send them? I would like my agent stay the night, if that’s okay with you. That way they can leave together.”

Rachel looked at me crazily, but I paid it no attention. “That’s fine, just bring him over later and I’ll have a room set up for him.”

Millona rose from the table and said, “Thank you for understanding the situation, Louis. I must take a leave now, and I will have the agent here sometime this evening.”

She left abruptly, and I couldn’t help but suspect that she was both happy unhappy with what took place during the meeting. She was glad that I have agreed to conduct an operation in Cheydinhal, but I also think she was mad at the fact that Rachel had copped an attitude with her.

“What is it with you, Rachel?” I asked once Millona was gone. “Why do you hate her so much?”

“Because she’s a liar, Louis. She thinks she’s knows everything, and she clearly does not. Cheydinhal? Are you kidding me?”

“Alright, I’m a little skeptical of that, I’ll admit. But we have to start somewhere.”

“Whatever, Louis, let’s just go back to the throne room. You know the advisors will be here soon, wanting to know what happened. Besides, we need to tell them what’s going on anyway.”

We walked back to the throne room, and Rachel didn’t talk until the advisors arrived, four hours later.

[redsrock]

CHAPTER SEVEN


“Well, I just don’t agree with her at all. Why would Lex stow anything in Cheydinhal?”

Emelia was very skeptic of the spying decision when I told everyone about it, but I really wasn’t surprised. She’s always been cynical of pretty much every decision I’ve had. Like I said earlier, if it wasn’t her economic-intelligence she wouldn’t even be here.

“Because we wouldn’t expect anything to be there, that’s why. I for one agree with Millona. I think there probably is something there, even if you don’t think so.”

Alammus then spoke up. “But why is this all coming up right now? I’m still not sold on this just yet. If Millona is right and really believes in what she says about the scroll and the priest, why would she have traveled to the Imperial City once she found the Legion spy? Shouldn’t she have already known why the agent was spent to spy on her city?”

He had a good point, and to be honest I’ve really thought about it. What was the point in confronting Lex if she already knew the reasoning for the spying?”

“The scroll and the priest are real; I know that much for sure. However, you do make a valid argument, Alammus. I don’t know why she went to Lex. Maybe she was just trying to get something out of him, I don’t really know. I think tomorrow’s operation will shed light on many things. At least that’s what I’m hoping for.”

“I actually agree with this decision, Louis,” Maxillius said. “I too believe that Cheydinhal and Count Indarys are hiding something. It just all comes together if you ask me. Now, who are going to send on this mission?”

That certain question I had answered myself as soon as my meeting with Millona concluded. I was sending Vaden. You might think that’s a bit strange, but believe me, it’s really not. I’ve been known to use both Vaden and Torlin for more than just protecting me during trips away from the city.

“I think Vaden is the best option. His skills are certainly up for the challenge. Besides, I think he’s been aching to get back on the field once again. He was a rouge spy before I hired him myself, you know.”

Vaden was once involved with a drug circle long ago, even before the Oblivion Crisis ended. During the time we used him as a spy. Vaden claimed to his own comrades that he was with them, but in reality he was working for us. I think the only reason he agreed to help us was because we promised him he would not be charged with any crimes. After everything was settled Vaden stayed in contact with me for some time, and once I was named Count I immediately named him my honor-guard. Torlin came along shortly after, but that’s a whole other story.

“Yes, that will suffice. Where is he now?”

“I’d say he’s in his room beside Torlin’s.”

I then sent a servant to fetch Vaden for me, so that I can tell him of what’s going on. Some ten minutes later he trudged down the stairs, looking quite sleepy. Apparently the servant had woken him up.

“Yes, my lord?”

I informed Vaden of the mission, and he was happy to oblige. “That sounds wonderful, my lord. It’s been a while since I’ve practiced my first love,” he said, referring to his prior-life as a double agent.

“Great. Well, Millona’s agent should be here in the evening. You two are to leave tomorrow morning at dawn. I expect you’ll be gone for around two days, so pack what you need. You will both ride on horseback until you reach Cheydinhal territory, and then you will be on foot.”

Vaden nodded and then quickly left in order to get ready for tomorrow’s assignment.


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


“I still think you’ve made the wrong decision, Louis,” Rachel said while combing her hair. It was ten o’clock at night, and Millona’s agent is already sound-asleep in a room next to Torlin and Vaden. The agent is a Dunmer, just like Vaden, and hopefully this would make the journey a pleasant one. I could only imagine what it would be like if the Anvil agent an Altmer or a Bosmer. Vaden won’t openly admit it, but I just know he despises the other two elven races.

“Honey, let’s go outside and talk about it. It’s nice out there anyways.” And indeed it was nice. At roughly seventy-five degrees with a light, cool breeze coming in from the southwest, I couldn’t ask for anything better.

I poured the two of us a glass of wine and then headed out onto the balcony, where Rachel was already sitting in a chair. Her head was resting on one of her hands, and she was staring into the sky, much like I was last night.

“What’s on your mind?” I asked while handing her the glass.

“I just don’t agree with anything you’ve said today, Louis. You…you’re making decisions so fast you’re not even thinking about them? I mean, you’ve never been like this before. What are you going to do if something bad happens during this operation?”

“Rachel, that is out of my control. The only thing I do know is that I firmly believe something is in Cheydinhal. I didn’t before, but the more I think about it the more it all makes sense.”

“Then what, Louis? What is in Cheydinhal that is so important?”

She was now raising her voice, something I didn’t quite like. “I’m not quite sure, but I believe the Priest is there somewhere.”

“You believe? So you’re willing to risk Vaden’s life, despite the fact that you’re not even sure if there is anything in Cheydinhal?”

“Okay, now you’re putting words in mouth!” I too was beginning to get a bit agitated. “I said that I firmly believe something is in Cheydinhal, I am just not sure what it is. It could be the priest, it could be important documents of the East’s future plans, or it could be a mixture of both. I just don’t know. Do you?”

“Of course not, but I am not the one sending Vaden to a potentially dangerous situation!”

“We ARE in a dangerous situation, Rachel! If Lex gets his hands on the scroll we are all doomed! Don’t you see that?”

She rose from her chair and yelled, “You haven’t even listened to what I told you earlier, Louis. I still don’t think Millona is being honest with everything, and yet you didn’t even give it a second thought! But, oh, you of course immediately agreed with Millona and her suggestion!”

And it all came out. She was now arguing with me simply because I had agreed with Millona and not her. How immature of her to act like this. I just couldn’t believe it.

“So this is all about your little spat with Millona, eh? I should’ve known that’s what it was. You need to just get over yourself and stop acting like a child. It’s getting…”

“ACTING LIKE A CHILD? You’re the one acting like a child, Louis!” She was now screaming at the top of her lungs, and tears were streaming down her face. “That’s it, I’ve had it! I’m going for a walk.”

I watched as she left the room, and I just sat there in my chair, without even trying to stop her. I would regret that decision very soon…

[Burnt Sierra]

Yikes, taken me a while to catch up with this one - the only problem of being off for most of the week, I've absolutely loads to read now!

Never a hardship reading your stories mind you This one seems to be picking up pace rapidly now, and there's something about Millona that...well - lets just say I dont trust her a great deal

Looking good mate!

[redsrock]

Thanks, BSD. And dont' worry, take you time.