The Story of the Listener, My first fanfic. Options

[Konji]

Phew!

[Kiln]

Yes, please continue. You had nothing to be worried about when you posted this amazing story here, it's well composed and detailed, making for a fine read. Sorry I hadn't found time to comment before now.

[Kayla]

Ok. I've been working on this update all day.
----
Lucien stayed true to his promise. When I woke up, he was sitting at the foot of my bed.

“How long have I been asleep?” I asked.
“Quite awhile. The murderers tended to your wounds. The Argonian is a good healer.” He answered.
My body still ached as I tried to sit up.
“Don’t strain yourself.” He said, with a concerned tone in his voice.
“I’m fine.” I said with a grunt.
Ignoring the dull ache from the wound in my stomach, I sat completely up.
“Can the other murderers see you?” I asked. “This is the first time you’ve visited me outside of a dream.” I said.
“No, they can’t see me.” he answered.
“Why not?” I asked.
He laughed. “Because, I don’t want them to see me.” I guessed that was a good enough answer.
I thought for a moment.
“Do you think it would be wise to tell the new murderers about what happened to the Brotherhood? You know… why you’re dead?” I asked.
Lucien answered my question with another question. “Do you think it wise?”
“I see no harm in it.” I answered.
“Then neither do I.” he said.
“Then I intend to speak to them.” I said, struggling to stand.
Lucien sighed. “And I must return for the time being.”
“Return where? If you don’t mind me asking…” I asked curiously.
“To the side of our father.” He answered, lowering his head.
I grabbed his shoulder to keep him from leaving. He was cold as ice.
“Lucien, why do you help me?”
He pulled me close and wrapped his arms around me.
“Because your embrace is more comforting than even the Night Mother’s.” he answered.

Before I could even wrap my arms around him, he was gone.

I walked out into the main hall of the sanctuary. Immediately, I found Saprius. He was working on repairing a large, rather damaged silver claymore.

“Saprius, do you think you could gather all the murderers and have them come in here?” I asked.
He looked up at me.
“Of course, Sarelle. Just give me a few moments.”
He set down his armorer’s hammer and walked into the training room returning with the rest of the occupants of the sanctuary.

“I’d like to talk to all of you.” I said.

They situated themselves around me. I looked upon all their bright eyed faces, listening intently, and completely oblivious to the horrors I was going to tell them about.

I cleared my throat. “Arquen and I agreed that we would not talk to you about this. But, she’s gone now, and I never really saw any harm in telling you in the first place…”

Sitting in front of me, were two Imperials, an Argonian, and a Bosmer. Now that I had mentioned the past confidentiality of the subject, they were deeply enticed.

I continued. “When I joined the Dark Brotherhood, this was the busiest sanctuary in all of Tamriel. Soon after I was promoted to Lucien Lachance’s personal Silencer, he told me that there was a traitor that had been traced to this very sanctuary.”
As I spoke, I began to feel like an old teacher, lecturing a group of students.
“By the judgment of the Black Hand, I was ordered to do the hardest and most burdening thing I’ve ever done…”

I paused for a moment, trying very hard to push the echoing screams out of my head.
“Why, sister? Why?”
“I killed every member of this sanctuary.”
“Sithis save your soul…”

“After that, things calmed down. We thought that I had killed the traitor along with everyone else. Lucien explained to me that I would receive my orders at dead drop locations all over Cyrodiil. So, things continued that way. I did as my orders commanded me. Among many of my orders, were the entire Draconis family, a Khajiit master of hand to hand combat, a Nord who lived in the mountains, and a Wood Elf in Bravil. After I killed the Wood Elf, I was confronted by Lucien, who was very, very angry. He accused me of betraying him…”

I could still hear his voice, ringing throughout my memories.
“I came here to end your miserable life!”

“Thankfully, he allowed me to explain myself. It turned out that I was set up to go to the wrong dead drop locations, and I was receiving fake orders. Since the murder of the Draconis family, I’d been systematically killing members of the Black Hand and their Silencers. The Bosmer I’d just killed was the Listener himself. The traitor still remained. My cleansing of this sanctuary hadn’t worked, and my brothers and sisters had been killed for nothing. Worse, the surviving members of the Black Hand thought that Lucien was the traitor.”
“I am being tracked day and night by the Black Hand.”

“Lucien told me to spy on the next dead drop location in Anvil and see who planted the orders, then to investigate who was behind the betrayal. We agreed that we would meet each other at the old Draconis house after I had recovered some information. That was the last time I ever talked to Lucien.”

I hadn’t even gotten to say goodbye.

“I found that a young Wood Elf had been paid by a man who lived in the cellar of the lighthouse in Anvil to place the orders. When I inspected the lighthouse, I discovered carnage beyond belief. Corpses of humans and animals alike were everywhere… the smell was incredibly sickening. Dried blood covered the floors and walls. I found a shrine-like room, adorned with the severed head of a woman.”

The murderers were still listening intently with pale faces.

“It was horrible… even for the murderer I am.” I continued. “But, I also found a diary, revealing that the writer wanted to kill Lucien. I returned to meet Lucien and tell him about what I’d found. When I entered the Draconis house, I found the surviving members of the Black Hand; including Arquen… they’d killed Lucien, truly thinking that he was the real traitor. Only I knew for a fact that it was one of the surviving members of the Black Hand, and whoever it was, they were standing under the same roof as the rest of us. I just didn’t know who it was. Arquen personally promoted me to speaker and we set out to ask the Night Mother to appoint a new Listener.”

I cleared my throat. The murderers shifted uncomfortably.

“We entered her crypt… as she spoke to us, the true traitor exposed himself. He was a Dunmer named Mathieu. He killed two of the other speakers and tried to attack the Night Mother. Arquen and I killed him. The Night Mother promoted me to Listener. She told me that Arquen would be my adviser. We returned here and began to rebuild the Dark Brotherhood.”
Too bad Arquen had devised her own death. She was a good adviser.

Saprius spoke up. “You saw the Night Mother?”
“Yes. Just being in her presence was amazing. She enchanted this dagger for me.”

I unsheathed the Blade of Woe. Lucien had given it to me when I first met him.
The murderers were amazed by the ebony blade, shining with the light of a powerful enchantment. Each one of them touched it lightly.

“I wish to rebuild the Dark Brotherhood. I wish to have a sanctuary and a family free of betrayal.” I said.
Saprius stood. “We swear to you our loyalty, Listener. History will not repeat itself.” The other murderers nodded, smiling.

Telling the story had really taken its toll on me as it brought back a lot of memories. They were surprisingly painful now.

“Thank you, murderers for listening. I just thought you should know about what happened. I must go now to see the Night Mother and tell her about Arquen.” I said.
The murderers all stood.
“I trust you’ll care for the sanctuary while I’m gone, Saprius?” I asked, looking at him.
He smiled.
“Of course I will.”

I walked back to the living quarters and put my Black Hand robe on over my armor. I wanted to get started on the way to Bravil. I needed some time to think. I turned to walk out into the main hall to leave the sanctuary when I ran right into Lucien.
“You told the story well. Do not fear the past. Memories can kill you.” He said, his blue eyes peering deeply into mine.
“I do not fear the past.” I answered, not breaking his gaze.
“I believe you do.” He said.
I walked around him, toward the door.
“I do not fear the past.” I repeated.
“Then, why do I sense fear in your voice?” he asked, grabbing my hand.
“I fear further betrayal.” I answered, squeezing his cold hand.
“You have nothing to fear.” He replied. “I am here. I am watching over you.”
Within the blink of an eye, Lucien was gone.

I walked out into the dim main hall. I used the main exit this time, walking through the stone door, and out the front door of the abandoned house.

It was sunset when I exited the main gate of Cheydinhal and climbed on Shadowmere’s back. It looked as though I would be traveling throughout the night.

This post has been edited by Kayla: Apr 25 2006, 02:21 AM

[Taillus]

Great work Kayla. Im really liking this story and while I have neglected to comment on it that doesn't mean I haven't been reading. Well done!

[jack cloudy]

So that's what happened. Nice update.

[Kayla]

Ok! I have another update for you guys!
----
I directed Shadowmere at a slower pace than usual. I wasn’t in much of a hurry and I really needed some time just to think about things.

As we traveled, I looked down at the plants, occasionally stopping to collect alchemical ingredients. The night was very quiet, save for the sound of Shadowmere’s hooves hitting the packed dirt and stone road. Sporadic, inconsistent breezes rustled the leaves on the branches of the trees, making them sound as though they were whispering to me.

As I neared Bravil, the wind picked up, and the air became heavy. I could see ahead that clouds were gathering. By the time I arrived in Bravil, it was pouring. The guards on night shift ignored the rain, sticking to their patrol. I couldn’t help but wonder if their armor ever rusted.

I walked through the town, my boots making small splashes in the puddles made by the rain. Upon approaching the statue of the lucky old lady, I knelt.
“Good evening, Night Mother.” I said, quietly.
“Good evening, Listener.” She replied.
“Arquen was a traitor, and you knew.” I couldn’t help but feel a little angry, thinking about it. She knew that things would turn out this way, yet she made Arquen my advisor.
“Yes. I knew it would happen, eventually… but, Arquen was the only one left at the time. You needed her help to get on your feet as the Listener. I also knew that you would be able to handle the situation. However, I wasn’t expecting Lucien to help you… Nor did I know that Arquen had enlisted the help of the Morag Tong.”
“Why didn’t you tell me before it all started?” I asked.
“I cannot tell you of your own fate.” She explained, ”The line of destiny is a very fragile one. It is both certain and uncertain. Certain in what may happen, uncertain in whether or not it will happen. You must understand that telling you what may happen can have catastrophic effects on what will happen. At one point, you were destined to die in Old Mournhold, but you didn’t.”
I understood a little better. My anger subsided.
“Excuse me then, Mother, for my anger.” I said, calmly.
“It’s perfectly understandable, Listener. You are thinking of many things right now. Wounds take time to heal. You should remember that.”

When she said that, I remembered my own physical wounds. They hadn’t been hurting. Lucien was right. The Argonian was a good healer. I would have to re-bandage them when I returned the sanctuary. The bandages I had on now were soaked.

The Night mother spoke.
“Now, I’d like to tell you about business. I have quite a big contract for the Brotherhood. It’s one that I’d like you to personally carry out.”
That surprised me. I stood and looked at the dripping face of the lucky old lady.
She continued, “An ex member of the Dark Brotherhood, a Nord by the name of Fanar the Flayer has been trying to find ways to destroy Sithis and me. He worked with Arquen. For the time being, he resides in Solstheim, in his old home in the Skaal village. I worry that he’ll be out for blood once he hears of Arquen’s death. I want him nowhere near any of our sanctuaries. You must go to Solstheim to kill him. I want your word when he’s dead.”
“Understood.” I answered.
“Listener, I want you to know that Fanar is extremely dangerous. He’s not an ex member by his own choice. He was kicked out for killing several other members. Do be careful.” She said.
I nodded. “I will. I promise.”

On my way back to Cheydinhal, I thought about my contract. I’d never been to Solstheim before. However, I’d heard many horrible stories about it. People described it as desolate, a freezing wasteland, a cold, snowy hell. I guessed I was going to get to judge for myself.

I arrived back at the sanctuary around noon. I told Saprius of my contract, explaining that I would most likely be gone for quite awhile. He agreed that he would take care of the sanctuary and watch over the progress of the other murderers, as well as recruit more members. Saprius fit well into his new role as a Speaker.

I returned the living quarters, re-bandaged my wounds, and readied my armor, bow, arrows, dagger, and shortsword.

Suddenly, Lucien stepped out of the shadows. The air became very cold very quickly.
“You’re out to kill Fanar?” he asked.
I nodded.
“I remember him. Quite the interesting man... he was clearly insane though… He and Arquen, alike.” He said.
“The Night Mother said you and Arquen never got along.” I said.
“That’s true. I could tell from the moment I met her, she was on one big power trip.” He answered. “The concept of power can quickly drive one to insanity, you know.” He added.
“You have a good perception of people, Lucien.” I said.
“I must. You were my Silencer.” He said with a small smile.
Suddenly, his eyes became very serious.
“Listen, Sarelle… Before you go to Solstheim… I want you to go to Fort Farragut. You remember… the place I used to live. There’s something for you in there. Check the small chest on my shelf.”
“Alright, I will.” I said.
He walked back into the shadows, blending with them. When the room warmed up, I knew he was gone.

Fort Farragut was just outside of Cheydinhal. I rode there and used the secret entrance to gain quick access to Lucien’s old living quarters.

The place had been ransacked, probably by the Black Hand when they were still looking for Lucien. Books and papers lay all over the floor as well as unlit torches, alchemy ingredients, several bones, and a few daggers. Only one thing had remained untouched: a small chest on a shelf above the overturned bed. I walked over to it, lifted the chest and opened it.

A beautiful silver amulet with a black gem in the center lay inside. Stunned, I picked it up by its silver chain and examined it. The back of it had been engraved. I walked toward a lit torch to read it clearly.

“To Sarelle, with love from Lucien.”

My knees weakened, and I sat down on Lucien’s overturned bed to steady myself. I kept reading the engraving over and over again.

A single tear fell from my eye and hit the stone floor.

“I love you too, Lucien…” I whispered, fastening the necklace around my neck.

I felt a brief wave of cold air, and just as quickly as it had come, it was gone.

This post has been edited by Kayla: Apr 25 2006, 11:41 PM

[Mazelure]

wow kayla!!!! your first story is a ton better than mine. I just want to congratulate you with a job incredebly well done.

I cant even believe you thought my story was good cause your's kicks mine's british boat hahahahahaha!!!!

By the way
Kudos Kayla...Kudos

P.S. I did not say british boat what the heck is up with that .... I cant even say a word that sounds like another. That my good friends.... Sucks

This post has been edited by Mazelure: Apr 26 2006, 12:04 AM

[Kayla]

Why thank you! You really should write more stories. I believe you are a good writer. I really like your style.

[Kayla]

Small update today, as I am rather busy. Enjoy!
----
I decided that the best way to get to Solstheim would be to go through Morrowind. I knew that a boat in Khuul could take me all the way to Solstheim. But, I would first have to get off the mainland. So, once again, Shadowmere and I rode to Mournhold. I knew of an Argonian mage in the castle that could transport me to Ebonheart.

When we arrived at Mournhold, the sun was high in the sky, but it was cold and dry. I stabled Shadowmere and bid her farewell for the time being. She wouldn’t be coming with me on the rest of the journey.

I walked through the gates of the grand city. Even though I’d been here less than a week ago, Mournhold still took my breath away. The Plaza Brindisi Dorom was full of people, quickly walking throughout the city. Everyone seemed to be in a hurry. Once again, I walked through the plaza. I approached the tall, stone castle gates, and passed through into the castle courtyard.

The plants in the courtyard were amazingly beautiful. I couldn’t help but stop and look at them. The vibrant colors almost hurt my eyes, but made me feel warm. The fragrant flowers had a very calming scent. I managed to tear myself away from the flowers and I walked into the castle’s reception area.

I found the mage quickly. He was practically the only one in the area not wearing Mournold’s signature red guard armor. He noticed me approaching.
“Would you like transport to Ebonheart?” he asked.
I nodded.
“Alright then.” He said, casting a spell.

The world went black momentarily, and I found myself in a large, opulent castle. I took a moment to steady myself. I didn’t teleport everyday. I walked out of the Governor’s Hall and into the busy port town of Ebonheart. I walked past the many guards and busy citizens, happy to be back in Morrowind. I hadn’t been so close to Vivec in a long time. I planned on stopping by my old home when I had finished this contract.

I thought about ways to get to Khuul. It was far to the north west side of the continent. I decided that I would use the silt striders. The closest one being in Vivec, which wasn’t far from here at all.

I decided that instead of taking a boat, I would walk to Vivec. It wasn’t very far. As I walked along the dirt road, I inhaled the moist air. The sounds and smells of Morrowind were so familiar to me. I found myself wondering if Lucien had ever been to Morrowind.

Soon, I was staring up at the massive Foreign Quarter of Vivec. I walked up to the silt strider operator, paid my fee, and boarded the strider. Newcomers to Morrowind were always quite frightened by the silt striders, as they were giant insects with very long legs. Operators steered them on certain routes, and they were a method of public transportation. I had been using them since I was very little, and I thought nothing of them. But, occasionally, someone who was scared to death of them would decide to ride one. That was always entertaining.

I took the silt strider first to Balmora, then to Ald Ruhn, and finally to Khuul. I found a Kajhiit at the port, willing to take me to Solstheim. I paid the fee he asked, and boarded. He said that the journey would take a long time, so I received a bed onboard.

Happy that I was on my way to getting this contract done, I went to my room, laid on my bed, and quickly fell asleep, clutching the amulet that Lucien had given me

[minque]

Great story Kayla.....very interesting. Keep up the good work!

[Kayla]

“How do you like your gift?” Lucien asked me.
“It’s beautiful.” I replied.
“I’m glad you like it.” He said, smiling. “It looks good on you.”
“Thank you.” I said.
“You’re welcome.” He replied.
“You seem to be making fast progress. Faran won’t even know what hit him.” He said. “I always liked your way of fulfilling your contracts swiftly.”
I nodded. “I liked being back in Morrowind again. It’s been so long…”
His eyes showed deep interest.
“You used to live there, I take it?” he asked.
Again, I nodded. “Have you ever been to Morrowind, Lucien?”
“Well, I’ve been to the mainland on many different contracts, but, I’ve never been to the Vvardenfell district. We usually try to stay out of there. That’s the Morag Tong’s territory, and they’re quite defensive about it.” he answered.
Then, he posed another question. “Where did you live?”
“I lived in Vivec.” I answered.
“Ah. Vivec, the city of the Morag Tong’s base.” He said.
I’d heard whispers and rumors about the Morag Tong, and their infamous public assassinations ever since I was a child, but I had no idea that they were based in Vivec.
“Surprised?” he asked. “Even though we are enemies, you have to admire their discretion. You grew up in their city and never even knew where they were located. Very few people do. However, the Night Mother knows.”
That, however didn’t surprise me. The Night Mother knew many things.
“Did you live in Cyrodiil all your life?” I asked Lucien, changing the subject.
“Yes. The Imperial City to be more exact. In the Elven Gardens district. I lived there until I joined the Dark Brotherhood.” He answered.
Then his eyes grew sad.
“I’m sorry, Sarelle… But, I must leave you for now.” He said.
“I understand, Lucien.” I said.
He took my hand. “You’ll have to show me around Vivec soon.” He said, smiling.
I smiled. “I will. I promise.” I replied.
He let go of my hand and disappeared into the darkness of my dreams.

A Khajiit voice ripped me from my sleep.
”Breton! Get up! We’ll be there very soon.”

I slipped out of the bed, stretching my muscles, and readying my equipment. I planned to make this trip quickly. Too bad things never really go as planned.


The first thing that hit me when I stepped out of the boat was a gust of cold wind. It was enough to make my teeth chatter. I walked down a wooden ramp and onto a dock made of stone. I stared up at Fort Frostmoth, an Imperial fort, and almost the only civilization on the island. The area around the fort was heavily forested and patches of snow lay on the ground.

I walked into the stone walls of the fort and asked the first Imperial guard where the Skaal village was. He looked at me blankly.
“Why would you want to go there?” he asked.
“To see an old friend.” I answered.
“Here.” He handed me a map. “The village is just north of Lake Fjalding.”
I nodded and thanked him, and then I was on my way, walking north.

The further I walked, the colder I got. The wind penetrated my robe and my armor. I’d never been this cold before. I stopped walking and sighed as it began to snow. Though it was cold, it looked very beautiful. The trees were weighed down with snow, and the falling snow absorbed every sound.

I found a small stream and followed it north until I reached a frozen lake. “This must be Lake Fjalding.” I said to myself. The ice was thick enough to walk over, and that’s just what I did, being careful to keep my footing. Apparently, the village was just a little more to the north.

After walking for a few more minutes, up a hill in almost knee-deep snow, I smiled as I was greeted by the sight of a group of small cabins, smoke rising from every chimney. I approached a Nord, who was skinning a bear.
“Hello.” I said, “I’m looking for a man known as Fanar the Flayer. I heard he lives here. Could you possibly help me?”
The fair skinned Nord looked up at me, brushing his long blonde hair out of his face.
“Why are you seeking out Fanar? He makes me rather uncomfortable… too close to the witches of Glenmoril if you ask me…” he said.
His eyes looked through me. “Wait… are you Arquen?” he asked. “Fanar mentioned a woman named Arquen.”
I shook my head. “I’m a good friend of Arquen’s. I come here bringing Fanar a message.”
The Nord shrugged. “That’s good enough for me. His cabin is over there.” He pointed toward a single cabin, almost on the outskirts of the village.

[Kayla]

The snow was thinner within the village. I imagined the residents shoveled it. My boots crunched in the thin snow as I made my way to Fanar’s cabin. The snow was falling harder now and each flake stung as they hit my numb face. I grabbed the wooden doorknob to the cabin, opened the door, and entered.

“What the hell?” I said aloud as I closed the door behind me.

Three charred bodies lay on the floor, each one contorted and twisted. I examined the fatal injuries and they seemed to be magicka burns. A bearskin rug had been dragged over just enough to reveal a trapdoor. I opened it and climbed down the ladder into darkness.

My feet hit a stone floor. I was in a hall shrouded in shadow. Up ahead, I could see a flickering light, probably from a torch. As I walked toward it, my hand brushed up against the stone wall. It was extremely cold. I tried to keep my footsteps as quite as possible and listened closely for any kind of noise.

When I reached the source of the light, which was indeed a torch. The corridor turned sharply to the left. Instead of bringing the torched with me, I opted to stay hidden in the shadows. I had night-eye spells to serve the purpose of a torch anyway.

Sneaking slowly and silently through the shadows, I followed the dark, cold stone halls; occasionally I would find more bodies like the ones upstairs in the house. Some of them were charred, others weren’t, instead, they were stabbed and mutilated. The further I went into the caves, the more abundant these bodies seemed to be.

I saw another light up ahead, and this time, I heard the faint echoes of voices. I quickly and quietly tried to move closer to hear what they were saying.
“And what was it like killing people, Fanar? You even got kicked out of the Dark Brotherhood! What the hell do you do to get kicked out of the Dark Brotherhood?! Destroy the damned moon?” a female’s voice screamed.
“What do you think you’ve been doing in here? Look at all these corpses! This isn’t just my work!” a thundering male voice yelled. I took it this was Fanar.
“This is what you wanted! You wanted enough power to destroy Sithis and the Night Mother, and we’re so close to having it!” the female’s voice screamed.
It seems I’d arrived just in time. I would kill Fanar and if the woman gave me any trouble, she’d be as good as dead too.
As I walked toward the source of the noise, the woman’s voice calmed and she began to speak.
“Do you have any idea how much power the soul of an individual contains? All we have to do is fill two more soul gems and your wish is fulfilled. Just please… don’t get mad at me like that again.”

I stepped into the room and spied an open chest full of black soul gems on the far end of the corner. They’d been capturing the souls of people to gain power. I took a look at my target, who was now staring at me in disbelief. He was a tall Nord with long brownish hair, and a large scar on his face. He looked like he could comfortably eat me if he wanted to. His lady friend was a red-headed middle aged Nord woman. I guessed she was probably one of the witches of Glenmoril that the Nord in the village had spoken of.

Even though I was outnumbered and my target was staggeringly muscular and tall, I wasn’t intimidated in the least. He had betrayed the Brotherhood. He worked with Arquen, and wanted to kill my mother and father. I already hated him.
“Fanar the Flayer, I am the Listener of the Dark Brotherhood. You have betrayed my family once and you are plotting to betray it again. By the order of the Night Mother, you will pay with your life.” I said. Then, I glanced over at his friend. “And if you try to interfere, I’ll hang you from these cold stone walls by your entrails.”
Fanar scowled, pulling a large battleaxe off his back.
"I knew one of you would be sent here. But, I will be absolutely honored to kill the Brotherhood's precious Listener!" Fanar yelled.
As Fanar charged at me, the woman backed up, frightened out of her mind.

Fanar was quick with his axe, but slow with his feet. In a second, he was towering over me, holding the huge axe over his head, ready to bring it down. I moved out of the way, keeping my eyes on him. I made my way behind him, but he turned around quickly, swinging the axe horizontally. I dodged it swiftly, and while he was still a little caught up by his momentum, I took that moment to stab him in the ribs with the Blade of Woe. He threw me off with his large arm, making me stumble. Then he charged torward me again, pulling the axe over is right shoulder. I found my feet, and moved to the left, getting a slash in with my dagger while he was struggling to keep me within striking range. I stayed ahead of him, moving behind him while he was still trying to turn around. I grabbed his shoulder, and buried the dagger into the back of his neck.

This time, Fanar cried out in pain. He turned around surprisingly quickly, jabbing me in the hip with his axe. The force was enough to knock me down.

I lay on the cold floor, clutching my wound, warm blood seeping through my fingers. Fanar stood over me. Laughing, he brought the large axe up, again over his head. I rolled out of the way, hearing the blade scrape against the stone floor.

My wound hurt more than I expected it to. The pain made standing up difficult. Unfortunately, I couldn't get to my feet fast enough. Fanar rushed to me, grabbing my neck. His large hand squeezed my neck, cutting off my airway. His dark blue eyes stared wildly into mine. I could feel my feet leaving the floor.

He began to laugh again. "Say goodnight, Listener." He said, raising his axe with one arm.

I brought my dagger up and stabbed him right through the skull. His grasp around my neck loosened, his eyes rolled back into his head, and finally, he let go of my neck.

The huge Nord man fell onto the floor, his axe clanging as it hit the stone. I withdrew my dagger from his head, wiping blood and brain matter on his shirt, then sheathed it.

I looked at the woman. Her eyes were wide with fear, and she was pressed up against the wall. I threw a fireball at the chest of black soul gems, engulfing them in flames. Then, even though the wound on my hip felt like it was on fire, I rushed toward her, pushing my blade against her throat. She whimpered, and began to shake.
“Your soul should be in one of those damned gems. I hope that every night while you try to sleep, you hear the screams of all the people you’ve imprisoned, tortured, and killed. I pray that your god have no mercy on your soul. It might not be at my hands, but you will suffer with what you have done. Have a nice day.” I took my blade away from her throat, and exited the room, stepping back into the comforting darkness.

This post has been edited by Kayla: Apr 28 2006, 10:58 PM

[HyPN0]

Hmmm,the last paragraph is a bit confusing.You say you took him as Fanar?Is he really Fanar or....some other Nord.....From the tales how tough he is,he fell so easyly.

Another thing that is confusing is that your Listener has a good soul.

Your soul should be in one of those damned gems. I hope that every night while you try to sleep, you hear the screams of all the people you’ve imprisoned, tortured, and killed. I pray that your god have no mercy on your soul. It might not be at my hands, but you will suffer with what you have done. Have a nice day.

This sounds like it was said by a Paladin,not by a cruel,cold-blooded murderer.Why not cut her down now?She can leave a threat for the Brotherhood later......
Why destroy the Black Soul gems?They would make a nice offering to the Night Mother.Besides they carry good enchantments,and the people in the gems could be filthy bandits,who are totaly legal to kill,torture,and stuff like that.

Anyway,continue,i would like to know what happens next (something unexpected?).

[Kayla]

Yeah. He was Fanar. Hmm... I'll look at it and edit it to make it less confusing. Thanks for pointing that out to me.

You also have to remember that the Listener is a part of the Mages Guild (and has been for a long time) and the Arcane University. So, she feels the same way about Necromancers and their tools as the guild does. That's why she destroyed the gems rather than keeping them.

Besides the fact that the woman didn't interfere with the Listener's mission, the Listener was not ordered to kill the woman in the first place. And there will be more reasons revelealed as to why the Listener did not kill the woman.

But, I am going to go back and edit some of the battle with Fanar and make things a little less confusing. Thanks for helping me out!

This post has been edited by Kayla: Apr 28 2006, 10:22 PM

[HyPN0]

But, I am going to go back and edit some of the battle with Fanar and make things a little less confusing. Thanks for helping me out!

np
Well,the fact that your char is in the Mage's Guild for a long time doesn't have to mean much.Traven forbid Necromancy just recently,it was legel before he became the Arch-Mage(I would like to legalise necromansy again,but that's another story )So Necromancy isn't considered that ''bad'' in the guild.Actualy the fact that a regular member in the guild (remember Cheydinhal reccomendation?) knows what are Black Soul gems,that means that the guild actualy made them in the past.

But that's not important,the important thing is what happens next?Don't make us wait too long.........This is a very intresting story

[Kayla]

Thanks. I edited the story, including the fight with Fanar, making it a little more interesting (Hopefully).

I'm working on an update right now.

[HyPN0]

Thanks. I edited the story, including the fight with Fanar, making it a little more interesting (Hopefully).

Yeah,that's a lot more exiting if you ask me.
Keep up the good work

[jack cloudy]

Brilliant. And this line. ,,Have a nice day." I love it, especially because of what she said before those words.

[Kayla]

I limped through the darkness of the tunnels under Fanar’s house. My hip hurt every time I took a step. I wondered what I was going to do once I had to exit the cabin. I didn’t know how the other Nords in the village would react to me exiting the cabin bleeding and limping. I also worried about how I was going to get back to Fort Frostmoth in this kind of pain. But, I decided I would deal with that once I got out of the cabin.

Finally, I reached the ladder. I climbed it carefully, trying to minimize the pain. Once I got to the top, I pushed the trapdoor open, climbing up into the cabin. I took a look around the dim room. I walked over to the burning fireplace and warmed myself a little. To my left, I spied a robe, made of some sort of fur, lying on top of a bed. I picked it up and put it on over my Black Hand robe. It was very warm. Plus, it would cover the blood from my wound. Fanar wouldn’t be needing it anyway.

With the robe on, trying to walk as normally as possible, I crossed the room, walking around the charred corpses, and opened the door, stepping out into the cold.

I pulled the robe tight around me, and immediately began walking south. The wind was at my back. I looked up to see that it was close to night. The snow was still falling, and when I was sure that I was pretty far from the Skaal village, I started to walk more comfortably to ease the pain in my hip.

I took traveling slow. I didn’t want to injure myself further and end up stuck out in the wilderness of Solstheim to freeze to death. I could feel blood running down my leg. At least it was warm. For the first time in a long time, I thought that maybe I was going to die.

It was very late at night when I arrived back at Fort Frostmoth, limping painfully and out of breath. I had one of their healers take a look at my hip. The Redguard woman was a good healer, and in no time, I was ready to get back on the boat to Morrowind.

I again boarded the boat and I was on my way back to Morrowind. I decided that I was overdue for some sleep, and quickly found a bed.
“You did very well, Sarelle.” Lucien said to me.
It took me a little while to realize that I was dreaming.
“Thanks, Lucien.” I answered.
“Is there something wrong?” he asked, looking at me concerned.
“I am just tired.” I replied. “I don’t think I’ve ever been that cold before. For awhile, I wondered if I was going to die.” I said, amused.
“I am rather happy that Fanar is dead. He could have posed a threat to you. What about the woman he was working with? Do you think she could have posed a threat as well?” he asked.
“No. She was a coward. I would have considered her a threat had she attacked me. In which case, I would have killed her anyway.” I answered.
“Does your wound hurt?” he asked.
”Not so much anymore… I just want to find the Night Mother and tell her that I’ve done my job. I need some rest. However, I’m very glad I’ve rooted out the rest of the traitors. Perhaps I don’t have to fear betrayal for awhile.” I said.
Lucien nodded and kissed my forehead.
“I’ll leave you to your rest.” He whispered.
Then he disappeared.

I slept soundly for the rest of the trip. I’d never wanted so badly to sleep before.

I awoke to the sound of the Khajiit announcing that we’d arrived back in Khuul. When I got out of bed, my hip felt better, but I still couldn’t put a lot of pressure on it. My neck dully ached where Fanar had grabbed me.

I managed to get further rest on the strider trips back to Vivec. The Morrowind landscape was breathtaking to me, and I entertained myself by sightseeing from the strider.

Once back in Vivec, I walked the remainder of the way back to Ebonheart. The sky was heavy with thick clouds, and it began to rain the moment I made into Ebonheart’s busy city square. Walking into the Imperial fort, I made my way to the reception area of the governor’s hall and asked a mage there for transport to Mournhold.

Mournhold was just as busy as ever. The High Ordinators walking throughout the city were certainly a sight to behold amongst all the other commoners. Walking through the large city was slightly uncomfortable because of my wound, but I managed to make it out of the city gate and to the stable, where I was greeted by a joyous Shadowmere.

The trip to Cheydinhal was easy now, compared to my walking through the deep snow in Solstheim. When I arrived, it was night. I walked to the sanctuary. Saprius greeted me with a smile.
“Back so soon, Listener?” He asked.
I nodded. “Yes. I’m back. I see you managed to hold down the fort.”
“Ah. Well, it wasn’t that hard. How did your contract go?” he asked, curiously.
“It went well. I have yet to report my success to the Night Mother though. I’d like to rest here for the night.” I said.
“You’re more than welcome to.” He answered. “Also, here’s your part of the guild’s pay.” He said, giving me 250 coins.
I put them in my pocket, wished Saprius a good night, and went to bed. My sleep that night was strangely dreamless.

I awoke early in the morning and set out for Bravil, arriving there in the afternoon. I walked to the statue of the lucky old lady and knelt.
”Greetings, Night Mother.” I said.
“Listener! I’m glad to see you back! I trust Fanar is dead?”
“Yes.” I answered.
“Excellent! I knew you could do it, Listener. The traitors have been dealt with. Now, I would like you to get some rest. I have a very important contract that deserves your attention. This could quite possibly be the biggest contract in the history of the Dark Brotherhood. I know you have some wounds, and you are weary from your trip. Rest, and I shall speak to you about it when you are ready.” She said.
This made me extremely curious.
“Night Mother, I…”
“You are not ready to deal with it. I wish for you to rest, Listener.” She said.
“Alright, Night Mother. As you wish.” I said, walking away.

[HyPN0]

Bigest contract in the whole history?
I bet this one won't be easy even for such a skilled Listener such as Sarelle

So who is it?
A king?
A High Priest?
Elder council member?
Someone more important?
Or is it a hidden threat from the shadows?

Can't wait for the next update