Memoirs of a Morag Tong Assassin: Vvardenfell, Chapter Six: An Old Friend to Kill... Options

[Black Hand]

'Tis. And one that was in working from the start. Remember the dream from Chapter Two? When he was still looking for the Morag Tong?

As for Dren, there is another Character in this forum that would like to See Dren Deader then a doornail also, yes. Another collaboration is coming up..a cookie to whomever can guess who!

[The Metal Mallet]

Well it's not me then. Simion all ready killed Orvas in my fic If I were to guess I'd say it would be Trey. As I recall, he doesn't like the Commona Tong too much.

As for you recent update, I have to say it got a little emotional for me on this end of the computer. I was definitely NOT expecting that to happen. I must say though, it was brillantly written. You conveyed Sethyas' instant emotions wonderfully.

As for the dream you mentioned, that was in chapter two man! It would be hard to recall one dream after all that's happened in this fic. I'm gonna have to go back and find it though, but for now, I'm off to bed.

I'm certainly looking forward to this collaboration, especially if it's with Trey. Though I'm sure if it's anyone else, it'll be great.

[jack cloudy]

Damn, how could you? This is horrible!

I personally believe that Sethyas is going to pay back Orvas in the most painful way possible. Though I don't know what this most painful way is.

[minque]

OH NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Please! NOOOO.....that was the most beautiful and the most extremely tragical part I´ve read for quite some time! I can´t believe it......it´s just so utterly sad! But what a writer you are Blackie......astonishing! The wedding, so detailled, so wonderfully described, I could very well picture it in my mind, and how nice you let Serene appear...oh i thank you very much for enterpreting her so well, it´s an honor that you care to let her be a part of your tale, I´m so happy...about that! NOT by the tragic death of sweet Ilmeni.....that was just so sad and I have great difficulty of getting over it....

Now the rage arise and I do hope for a really cruel revenge! Rest assure Serene will do just about anything to make Seth feel better , she´ll do whatever it takes...

I read that dream.....creepy really....I think I had somewhat suppressed it.....hmmmm

[mplantinga]

Having read most of this chapter today, I'd have to say I'm quite overwhelmed by all the things that happened. But most of all, I'm appalled by the audacity of Orvas Dren and wounded by the fate that befell Ilmeni. I wish that I could think she will somehow be okay, because it is such a sad note to end on, but somehow I don't believe it. I'm worried that Sethyas will do something horrible in search of revenge, for this kind of evil can drive even the most righteous to make bad choices. Perhaps this is the moment to take advantage of Serene's abilities to heal both body and mind.

[Black Hand]

And here we go! This update is darker then most, so please bear with it. And the fine fellow writer, is canis216 with everyones favorite temperamental Argonian Assassin; Always-He-Lingers-In-The-Sun.

http://chorrol.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3574&st=0

If you havent already, do read up on his fine work, "Killing in the Emperors Name" The scene was written by both of us, so the credit is equal in his fine word-weaving of an update that entails two paths of Assassnic Revenge meeting.........enjoy.


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I awoke in the Morag Tong Headquarters in Vivec. Under the covers I felt warm and safe, the emptiness of the void that had entered my life did not sink in just yet, as the memories of the evening had yet to assault me. The sounds of the distant voices held an otherwordly presence that I couldn't fully interperet. Then, like an army breaking a seige into the castle walls, the images of unspeakable loss broke in. I vomited again, but I was not weakened.

I got up, feeling colder and more focused then ever before. Death called me, the ethereal gloom of the otherworld beckoned me to become its avenging angel. It was a call I was very willing to answer. Ilmeni, I swear that you shall not be alone for long!

I walked into Eno Hlaalu's chambers, the Mer was taken aback by my silent entrance, but he nodded grimly to me, knowing exactly what I was going to ask of him. He unrolled a Writ, a set of daggers, and my Dwemer Crossbow with a large quiver of poisoned bolts. And most importantly, my pair of black gloves.

"I told the Temple authorities that this was a matter of Mephala's, no one will dare rob you of your revenge. Dren has fled to his Plantation for the time being, but he will depart before this night ends. You must not let that happen. Mephala demands murder. Swiftness and accuracy to you." Eno said as I changed into a pair of blacks, and slipped the gloves on slowly, letting the psychological affects of the 'Black Hands' take over me.

"What of the Duke, though? He has lost a love as well."

"Who do you think paid for the Writ? Vedam has finally seen the light in regards to his brother. Almost a shame that you did not earlier, but this is not time for blame, only blood. Go. Avenge your bride." He said coldly, and I was glad to oblige.

I ran at full speed, hatred pumping my heart and veins, nothing held me back, and nothing would stand in my way. Running, and running, through the Ascadian Isles, underneath the light of Secunda and Masser. I was vengeance. I was pure rage.

Slowing down to take a breath at the hills just before the Plantation, I came to a stop as I gazed at the walls that guarded Dren. Strangely, there were no Guards. No. Dren would have them around him. He knew that he had messed up. Dren! I will see you dead! You will beg me too kill you before I am finished with you!

Holding back my rage, I took in a deep breath to focus my mind. Anger is a weapon only to ones opponent, and there would be plenty of time for it later. The task at hand required subtlety and finesse. Not blind rage, I was not an armored orc wielding a battle-axe. Though I certainly felt like one.

Creeping in slowly through fields, I almost did not capture the slight flicker of cloth as it jumped easily from the ramparts; this was an excellent acrobat. As good as me, the rustle of the marshmerrow reeds were slight enough to dismiss them as the evening wind. If you weren't a paranoid Assassin that is, and I knew stealth when I almost didn't hear or see it.

I unslung the crossbow, and rushed as quiet as I could to the rustle, seeing a tail emerging from a shadow, and the whistle of a bolt heading for my face, I barely dodged the shot, and released mine. I hit nothing it would seem, the shadow grew in size and produced a glowing daedric dagger, and an argonian snout, the clawed hand bringing it down in a wide arc for my neck, the powerful legs rushing for me.

I brought the dagger slightly to the side of my neck, and fell backwards, planting my feet on the lizards chest, and pushing upwards, the smell of brandy quite strong on the breath, and the audible 'oomp' as he landed. The black robed Assassin then unsheathed his Ebony Shortsword from the folds, and prepared for another lunge.

"Stop!" I seethed. "Somehow I doubt that Dren would hire a 'slave' for a guard, so you tell me who you are, or die here and now!" I whispered angrily.

"I am no guard. And it is you who will be dying, here and now. Any friend of Orvas Dren is my sworn enemy" the lizard hissed, his enraged eyes narrowing.

"Dont even start with me! I am here to kill him, and no one will rob me of the pleasure! Not even you! Now tell me why you're here! Are you Twin Lamps? Then you'll like to know. Ilmeni Dren is dead! Orvas attacked my wedding, and my bride is dead! Vengeance in mine!"

The snout seemed to sniff the air for a moment, considering my words. "I am no ‘Twin Lamp’, dunmer. My acts are my own. But I have heard that name before, Ilmeni… Im-Kilaya will be much grieved if what you say is true. But all I have is your word, and that is the one thing I cannot trust.”

I unrolled my writ and left it on the ground, taking a step back, but keeping the figure in my sights with my crossbow. He slowly walked forward, picking it up, and keeping a close eye on me as well, but readying just as intently.

"You're Morag Tong. I've dealt with your kind before. Assassins don't tend to love or wed. So you understand why I don't believe a word you say. But I believe that you are here to kill him. Go back to your guild and tell them someone else has taken care of him."

"No, Lizard! Dren is mine! The Writ is just insurance! This is personal! Make no mistake! I'll kill you if I have too!"

"And I you. You have no idea how many men and mer I’ve killed on this gods-forsaken island.” The argonian paused. “Even Morag Tong assassins. And that is a nice crossbow that you are holding—I wouldn’t mind acquiring another like that. Mine is just like it yours see, Dwemer-make, and shoots viper-bolts very nicely, as you know quite well...who are you? What claim do you have to Dren's blood, dunmer?"

"I am Sethyas Velas. You may have heard of me by another name...I am the Nerevarine."

The snouts jaw lowered slightly. "The Nerevarine?! Come on! The Nerevarine is seven feet tall and can punch through the metals of the dwarves—if you can believe any of the bards’ lies. Hah! Nerevarine…

I took off the glove hiding the Moon-and-Star. "I have told you no lies, Assassin! Now step aside!"

"So, you are Nerevar returned. Then we have a mutual acquaintance. Caius Cosades."

"Caius? The Spymaster? What do you know of him?" I said incredulously.

"He was my commanding officer… when I do not kill in my own name it is in the name of the Emperor. But perhaps you have something to say about that, Operative.”

"You're in the Blades? Then who sent you here?"

The Argonian looked to the moons for a moment. "I have come for the revenge of my people, who are stolen and sold into bondage in the name of abominations like Orvas Dren, and I come for my own vengeance, for the slavers of Vvardenfell have been lately pursuing me. Im-Kilaya wishes that I would also come for the Twin Lamps, but I will not serve any but the Emperor. My name is Always-He-Lingers-in-the-Sun, Heik Auri in my native tongue. You can call me Al.” He paused, and looked down to the ground. “Your words now have the ring of truth. A good woman is dead? A shame. Ilmeni was good to my kind. A credit to her race. And the scrib-born scum killed his own niece! He shall pay in gallons for every drop of blood he has spilled of hers!"

"Yes, he will. At my hands. If I am your superior in the Blades as you say, then I order you to step down."

"You’re not listening. I'm not here at the behest of the Blades, Velas. I came here on my own terms. I must also have my vengeance."

"Then perhaps a compromise is in order?" I suggested, lowering my crossbow.

"I'm listening." Al said lowering his Ebony Shortsword.

Three minutes later, thirteen of Orvas Dren’s guards were dead. Two more fell to dual bolts being fired by two black-clad assassins, and within seconds Heik-Auri and I reloaded and made our way into the lower strongholds of Drens Villa. Working with him was strangely instinctual, as all our moves complemented the others.

Dren himself showed all of his fear at the two of us approaching him slowly, both with Dwemer Crossbows at the ready. A long wet stain appeared in his left pant leg, and I held my ground, as the argonian pulled his shortsword and struck Dren in the side of the head, a trickle of blood falling down the side of his face. And then tied him to a chair, and I took a seat as well, laying the crossbow across my lap, and lit up a hackle-lo leaf, exhaling the smoke slowly, as I gave the most sinister of looks to Dren, his eyes never leaving me.

"So..get it over with Nerevar! Kill me! What are ya waiting for?"

"Yes, Dren, I am going to kill you...when you look up from that chair you’re tied to and look into my eyes and beg me to. In the meantime, my friend, the lizard here, who just so happens to be a fellow assassin, and fellow Blade, is going to have his way with you and remind you of the error of your slaver ways. You see, Ilmeni was a secret member of the Twin Lamps, and you hurt his feelings just as much as you did mine, so you can understand just how much the both of us want you dead....I’m going to sit down here and watch you, and whenever you're ready just say the word..."

Heik-Auri whispered harshly in my ear, “Argonian, not lizard.” Then he turned to our prisoner, speaking loudly, “Orvas Dren, you have made my people, and the people of Vvardenfell. I cannot make you suffer proportionately, but I will certainly try.” He looked to me. “Velas, there is a torch just back there in the hallway. I have need it of it, if you would.” As I walked down the stairs to pick up the torch, the argonian spoke again, “Now, what I’m going to do is hang you upside down from the ceiling here, and place that torch underneath your head. I’ll be applying a few spells of destruction to the rest of your body, as well. You should have heard how Talare Arvel screamed last night, when I visited her plantation.”

Dren spat, “You lizard scum…”

“Silence!” I was walking back upstairs with the torch when Always-He-Lingers-in-the-Sun slapped Dren’s face with the flat of his ebony blade. He turned to me, “Put that torch over there for a moment, Sethyas. Help me hang this scum up.”

Two hours later Dren cried, “AHHH! PLEASE! PLEASE! ENOUGH!” as Heik-Auri prepared to set another torch under the scrib-sucker’s head.

I walked up slowly to the monster. His face burned and beaten nearly beyond recognition. I put out my seventh hackle-lo on his cheek, the ash boiling in with the blood. I took out the dagger that Eno had supplied me with, and I carefully held it to his throat.

I felt the pressure of the tip going into the neck, and I brought it slowly across, savoring every moment. The tearing of the jugular, the esophagus, the wheezing for air, the waterfall of blood pouring like a rivulet from the neck. My vengeance was complete.

Always helped himself to Dren’s stash of fine brandy and inbibed, offering me a bottle of my own. I accepted heartily, laying my head back, and swallowing the contents as fast as I could.

"I wonder, do you sleep as poorly as I?" the Sun-Lingerer asked me.

"Before this, I slept fine. After this. I don't know. I know what they say about revenge. When seeking it, dig two graves. But this felt damn good. I don't care what they say....I don’t know...heh...I wonder what a friend of mine would have to say about all this.."

"Well. It was nice to work with you, I suppose, but I don' t think that we’ll be meeting much after this. You are the Protector of Morrowind, I am the black hand of the Emperor." He said, while picking up a set of daedric greaves, and a large sack of booze. They say that to the victor go the spoils, but I didn't feel much like I had won anything.

[canis216]

It was an honor to be of assistance, Black Hand.

I just wonder what Sethyas will do now...

[jack cloudy]

Yeah, he feels oddly wrong about it. Not about the killing itself but about how he did it. Normally, Sethyas tries to make it as quick and painless as possible but this time it was completely the opposite.

And a great cooperation with this update. Good work, both of you.

[minque]

Mmmm, yes he had his revenge, Dren is dead after some considerable torture. Of course Seth will feel good just after the deed and some more time...BUT it won´t give him Ilmeni back, and when he realises that the grief will return and double his pain.

It´s a good thing he´s got friends that care for him, he´ll need them...oh yes he will. And they´ll be there for him, at this time Serene has gotten a revenge as well, and she will understand the torturing pain Seth is going through.....Oh poor Seth!

A very good update, I did enjoy the cooperation between you and canis.....it was awesome....


More please?

[The Metal Mallet]

That was a extremely tasteful collaboration there. Both of you did an excellent job. The dark tone completely fit the scene and it was a great read.

I guess we'll see how Sethyas is affected overall by this quite soon. My thoughts, they aren't going to be a good affect.

Thumbs up!

[Black Hand]

“It is customary to pay the executioner of a Writ his gold. But I understand why you do not wish this payment. However, Sethyas, the Morag Tong is neutral, and this will likely be the first and last time that personal and guild matters overlap. If you are to be Grandmaster someday, you must remember that.” Said Eno noting that Orvas Dren was dead.

“I know Master. As I promised you long ago, the matters to which I have delayed my succession are now complete, as you well know. My love is dead, and my life as the Nerevarine exists in Tavern Songs and Bard’s tales now. While on Red Mountain, I discovered the final thread of the Sanguine Tokens. I present to you the Glove of Sanguine Safekeeping.” I said unfolding the glove, and placing it on his desk.

His eyes lit up with a wondrous look. A long time goal that he likely would have never seen complete glowed faintly before him. “Incredible, Sethyas! This is surely a sign! You, blessed by Mephala, have completed the most arduous and demanding of the tasks that have been set before you!”

“With this glove, you have completed the Sanguine Tokens Quest. And now, Mephala shall bless you with her skill. This is a power I bestow upon you, at will, without the aid of enchantment or scroll; you will be able to blend yourself with shadow, you will feel your skill with a blade grow, I grant you: ‘Mephala’s Skill’ a blessing that is bestowed only upon the greatest of Tong Assassins!” he said, and began a series of arcane mutterings, and held a knife over a candle for a moment, then raising my sleeve, he burned a small idol of a Velothi Mephala just below my shoulder.

I felt the energy associated with the ritual course through my system. It was like a spell, or a power associated with a birthsign, yet different somehow, I could cast it at will, as much as I wished, and no matter how tired I was, it would always cover me in shadow.

I practiced with it for a moment, and did indeed realize that I blended well with shadow, and did feel my skill increase with any weapon, not just a blade. And it was stronger then invisibility, it was chameleon. I did not need the Ring of Khajiit or the Bow of Shadows. I could now rely on skill alone.

“Now. The matter of Grandmaster is before you. Do you now wish to succeed me as the leader of the Guild? Will you accept the burden of leadership as the earthly representative of Mephala?”

“Yes, Eno. The time has come, and I, your Exalted Master, shall succeed your position as the Grandmaster. What would you ask of me?”

“Traditionally. The Grandmaster was succeeded when the next in line honorably executed him. This is the ritual that pleases Mephala, and proves that the successor is worthy and ruthless enough. If you wish to kill me now, that is your right, and you may claim it, none shall dare question you.”

I was surprised, yet not surprised. I was slightly shocked, yet not at all. I understood the importance of the ways of the Morag Tong, and sealing the pact with blood certainly sounded like something that Mephala would ask of her followers. But something about the way Eno spoke made me think that there was another option available.

“That is the tradition. But what is the alternative?” I asked him, and a weight lifted from his serious eyes.

“The alternative is that you allow me to retire. I am tired, and wish to spend the rest of my days in quiet and study, and to see this new world that you have created Nerevar. No one will question our word. What is your choice?” he asked me.

”I suppose if I were a traditional Dunmer, intent on proving my worth to lead the Guild to Mephala as you say. I would kill you. But, as I am so often reminded, I am an Outlander, and I confess that I have affection for you, Eno. Not good for an Assassin, but it is there nonetheless, I would not kill you friend. Retire. Rest. You well deserve it, but my mercy comes with one condition.”

“That is?...” Eno asked raising an eyebrow, his hand slipping slowly to the hilt of his glass dagger.

“That when I need advice, I can call upon you.”

Eno smirked. “That is if you can find me. But I accept. I will send out the message immediately, as there are a few loose ends I have to tie up. But otherwise, you now lead the Guild. You are Grandmaster Sethyas Velas. Lead well, good friend.”

We bowed to one another, and I prepared to leave, but Eno stopped me with a hand on my shoulder.

“There is one last thing, Grandmaster.” Eno said softly.

“What is that?”

He held out the Ebony Dart that had my name carved on it, from the war with the Dark Brotherhood a year or so ago.

“I have held onto this because the time was not right for you to know. But the Dark Brotherhood Assassin whom visited you with this was not associated with our War. Someone put out a contract on you, that is the only time that they ever do something like this. I have tried to track down who would do it. But the Dark Brotherhood keeps their secrets well hidden, as do we. However, there may be a contingency that we have overlooked operating in Almalexia, or Mournhold, Morrowind’s Capitol.” He said with a slow informative tone. My reaction was mixed once more.

“There are recent events there that have passed since you have saved Vvardenfell. Events that may be a dark cloud forming once more. Remember, as a Morag Tong, you are neutral, you serve the stability of the politics, not aiding either side. You may wish to investigate this further. A man, by the name of Apelles Matius has recently arrived from Cyrodiil, an Imperial guard that served in a special unit that tracks and kills Dark Brotherhood Assassins. He may be one to speak with, in time.”

“But first, there is some Guild Business that you must finish. See any of the Masters when you are ready, there are some high profile writs that only the skill of the Grandmaster may complete, as we are well paid to insure their success. This may be the last time we speak for quite some time. I wish you well, Brother. And may you walk in Mephala’s Shadow always.” He said, as I prepared to leave, staring at the Ebony Dart, the tip between my thumb and forefinger.

This was disconcerting news, and I made my way to Bal Isra. Ilmeni’s death avenged. Vvardenfell saved. The promise to Eno fulfilled. But the emptiness of her passing was still lingering. A void that nothing would fill. But I could certainly try. And try with the stores of Brandy I had. I wondered at my temporary companion, the Argonian Assassin, Always-He-Lingers-In-the-Sun, and his apparent alcoholism. Would I end up like he? Drinking to get the images out of my mind? Trying to forget the loss.

I had lost two of the most important women in my life, first my sister, and now my wife. Was Mephala or some other entity determined to ensure that I never had any measure of happiness? I had taken my revenge on the one most directly responsible for Ilmenis death. A revenge that left me feeling raw and empty. But, perhaps it too was my fault for not taking Orvas’ life when I had the chance. What did I expect from a Crime Lord? That he would show the same compassion to his own kin as I had? Assassins don’t love, and they don’t feel compassion. There is a price for these things, and I have paid them.

I awoke to the early dawn light of the next morning. Despite the slight stagger from binge drinking, I could not sleep anymore, and I busied myself with cleaning the bottles and making the bed that only one slept in now. While my Redoran colleagues had heard the news, no one had approached me with anything, and Bal Isra served as a midway hostel and growing trade center in the paths between Maar Gan and Ald’Ruhn. I did not wont for anything as Lord of the Manor. But it did not take away the sadness.

Though I still found it strange that I had not yet shed a tear for Ilmeni. I felt her loss deeply, but the tears did not come. Perhaps I had shed the final one for my sister. Perhaps not. Or perhaps they would come at her funerary rites, which would be in three days time. As her husband and love, I was expected to be there in the main procession. And it would be important to letting her go. Get on with the grieving process as it were.

Then the Grandmastery. And this news that someone had hired the Dark Brotherhood to kill me. It never seemed to stop, and always, like a river flowing along, the current taking me with it. I needed to build a dam.

[jack cloudy]

An emotional update. I'm pleased that Sethyas did not kill Eno. Somehow it feels right to see him spare a life, even though the Morag Tong demands otherwise. Perhaps there will be some reformations in the guild? As for the funeral, I hope that Sethyas carries his dagger. I know that it might seem like the wrong place, but what's a better time for an assassination attempt than when the target is grieving? He hasn't seen the last of the Dark Brotherhood. They'll come back and now that he's Grandmaster, his value as a target has only grown.

[canis216]

This is an excellent update. There is so much... feeling. And yes, beware the alcohol. All that brandy and flin is... distorting.

[minque]

Yes he will cry....but it might take a while, but it´ll come, I´m sure of it. His reaction is quite normal, and it´s somewhat good he´s got things to occupy him....

Then time heals..but not completely and I hope he´ll visit Athyn and Serene or they will surely come to him...maybe when he needs it most, because Serene has an instinct for those matters.

I hope he´ll speak with Apelles as soon as possible.....

Oh my Seth will go to Mournhold.....

[The Metal Mallet]

I'm personally interested in seeing how Sethyas handles some of these Grandmaster's Writs because I recall that some of them are going to be people he knows. Will the person conflict with assassin? We'll see...

Brilliant use of characterizing as always Black, Sethyas emotions are clearly displayed for us. Excellent work!

[Black Hand]

Maybe not quite what some of you were expecting............



Vedam Dren’s eyes were raw with tears and grief. He beheld me with a sad countenance as I arrived off of a small rowboat in the peninsula at the Ascadian Isles to the Dren Ancestral Tomb. He took me in with a fierce embrace, and shook with grief as he cried once more. He was far stronger then I.

“The greatest sorrow is when a Parent must bury his child. I had hoped for reconciliation with Orvas, that as my brother, he may eventually see the light. I know you felt that too, and that is why he lived until the night you avenged my daughter. How was his death?”

I looked him over, hoping not to send him over the edge. “His death was as his life, brutal. I believe I sent him into the next world with some idea of the pain he caused in this one.” I said slowly, as I did not relish the memory. I am killer, but I am not sadistic.

“Thank you for that. But the time has come to bury two members of the Dren Family. And I feel the loss is more then most can stand. I confess, that I had considered suicide. But I must be strong to lead our people, Nerevarine. And for Ilmeni. She wouldn’t have wanted that. She wouldn’t even have wanted revenge, but Orvas had gone to far, to much of a threat, I pray that the Tribunal forgives me…” he said as the small gathering of the Dren Family and priests prepared the remains of both Orvas and Ilmeni into the Ancestral tomb. I had no such tomb to claim as my own families as I never knew them.

The songs were sung, and the tombs doors opened. The torchlight flickered into the rancid air of the resting place, and the undead guardians of the tomb let the family pass through without a quarrel, sensing the kinship. Ilmeni lay with her uncle, in coffins that over time would be reduced to ash. I had asked that Ilmeni not be made a guardian, though they could do as they wished with Orvas. Perhaps he could do some atonement in a necromantic servitude.

We departed outside, and the Wake lasted several hours. People speaking of fond memories of Ilmeni. The Arvels, friends of the family, and a similar splintering of Slaver Nobles, and abolitionist offspring, also attended. I spoke with many of the attendees of the funerary rites, and shared my fondest memories of her, the way she laughed. The way she looked at me sometimes. But that was all gone now. I was left. I did finally cry. Not overwhelming bawling, just a few tears that finally came as I thought of her. Perhaps I was growing colder. Perfect for an Assassin. My trade, my curse.

The Duke and I traveled back to Ebonheart on the Chun-Ook, and we payed our respects to one another, drinking well into the evening, recounting our tales Ilmeni. He told me of her constant compassion to outlanders as a child, always brave, and always kind. In truth, he knew of her abolitionist ways, and he was proud of her for it, always making sure that she was protected from afar, never trying to smother her with the power of his Duchy. Even the guard in Jobasha’s Shop wasn’t to keep an eye on Jobasha, it was to make sure the Cammona Tong wasn’t going to try something during business hours, and the Duke spoke of a time when the Dunmer finally saw slavery as a barbaric practice.

I made my way to the Vivec Mages guild, and in spite of the late hour, the guild guide was somewhat happy to transport me to the Ald’Ruhn mages guild, for a tip on top of the fee. I stumbled with a buzzing gait through the streets of Ald’Ruhn, ending up at Sarethi Manor.

”Waitaminnit…this isn’t my house..why did I come here?” I spoke aloud, as I prepared to leave to Bal Isra, the door opened slightly, then all the way, as the blue pair of eyes saw me through the crack.

“Sethyas! Are…you all right? Please, come in! You know you’re always welcome here. I would like to speak with you, as would Athyn. I know you must have suffered terribly in these last few days.”

“sshh..sure. Why not. Lets talks! A lot…yeah. I think. Wait, what were we talking about?” I replied nonsensically.

“You’re stinking drunk! Now you’re definitely coming inside. I won’t have you eaten alive by cliff racers on the way to Bal Isra.” Serene said grabbing my forearm and leading me inside to a spare set of quarters. I hadn’t noticed, but those blue eyes were reddened too. She had been crying a great deal.

“I won’t blame you for taking to drink. I know you must be sad beyond anything I can imagine right now. But you need to keep yourself in check. We can speak more of this in the morning.”

“Not..taking to….drunk..drink…just being sociable with the family….and the Duchess…er…Duke. Her Dod..Dad…yeah, Dad. Think I had too much. But I could use a rink now that you mention it…” I continued.

The next sensation was cold water splashing my face, and a little more sobriety found its way into me with the shock of the sensation, and the spinning stopped just a little.

“Thanks.” I said wiping the water from my face.

“Anytime.” Serene responded holding a small bucket. “I have quite the background in it.”

She sat down on the bed next to me, and embraced me in motherly fashion. “Are you okay, I mean really okay? Has her death hurt you more then your letting on?”

“I’m …doing fine. I’ll get over it, in time. I have before. I must again it seems.”

“That doesn’t sound very healthy. I think you’re bottling it all up. As a matter of fact I KNOW you are.” She said carefully, but it still upset me, and the liquor didn’t help me in holding my tongue.

“I told you a hundred times, too stay out of my head! What ever goes on in my mind is my business! Whether I am bottling it up or not is also none of your business! I grieve in my own way! I have lost a Sister, and now a wife. Every time I open up to a Woman, something happens too her. That is the danger of those close to me! Death follows me, but strikes at what I care about! That is why you would do well to stay away from me!” I said exiting the rooms, leaving Serene sitting on the bed, and I pounded my way to the door.

As I reached out for the doorknob, I felt her grip on my forearm once more, this time it was like a bird of prey clutching a fish. And her hand seemed to cleave the air, as the stinging sensation of her slap reminded me who I was dealing with.

“Don’t you DARE act like you’re the only one who is hurt by Ilmeni’s loss! Don’t you DARE forget that I was there! And don’t you dare forget who fought by your side without question when danger was about! If death is a risk of knowing you, then I’ll gladly accept it! You have no right too push the ones that care about you away just because you think they might get hurt! It happens. It does, I’m sorry. That’s life! You should know that better then anyone. But I don’t think Ilmeni would trade one second of her time with you to avoid the consequence of death, any more then you would! Or is that was this is really about?” Serene scolded me.

“That if I could have, I would gladly have traded places with her? That I wish now that it had been us both, or neither one? Yes, Serene. I wish that. And don’t tell me that, Azura forbid, the same fate should befall Athyn, that you wouldn’t feel the same. Now leave me be!” I said breaking her grip and wandering off into the night to return to Bal Isra.

[Black Hand]

“Greetings Sethyas. Or Shall I call you by your new title? Grandmaster. Eno has sent the announcement to all the guildhalls, and all Tong agents now know you as such. Congratulations, I knew that this day would come, and I am proud to serve under you as a Master.” Goren Andarys bowed his head in respect to me, and I followed suit.

“I thank you, Master Andarys. It is a strange feeling, but one that I am proud to accept as well. I pray that I prove to be a good leader in time. I need the Guild now more then ever, as my own family slowly disintegrates before me.” I said slowly.

“Ah yes. We had heard about the attack on your wedding that left your wife dead, and the subsequent reaction that lead you to bring justice to her murderer. Blood demands blood. It is the way of the world that the Morag Tong brings order too. I trust you have grieved enough to maintain your focus, now that you are our leader?” Goren asked me carefully, in manner that showed that he respected my new position.

“I still feel the pain. But it will not stay my blade. I am prepared. Eno spoke of some Writs that I must fulfill? That the one of the Grandmaster Rank must fulfill?”

“Yes. Since the passing of Dagoth Ur’s Shadow, we have had many writs requested. The alliance that you built, has seemingly crumbled almost overnight, and no house or faction wants to be caught ill-prepared. The most challenging of these Writs I have saved for you alone. Are you ready to accept your first, Grandmaster?”

“I am.”

“Dram Bero lives in secret somewhere in Vivec, show him that he cannot hide from the Morag Tong. The Hlaalu Councilor has tried to hide from us for many years now. But someone wants him dead enough to offer 4000 Gold for this.”

“As the Grandmaster, am I privy to the requester’s name? Am I permitted to know why?”

”Of course, Sethyas. Our laws require that we keep it secret from the lower ranks, but you may order me to divulge the records as you see fit. The name of the requester is none other then Dondes Dralor, a Redoran Noble who has an ancient grudge to fulfill with Bero, though it may not seem as such, Dralor has money vested in Caldera, contrary to House Redoran’s wishes, and he profits from the cheap labor, and Bero and Crassius are both involved in projects to help clean house in Caldera, business and pleasure mixed it would seem, as his grudge and pocketbook will both benefit from Bero’s death.”

“Then Dralor is a criminal! Why would we aid him?” I raised an eyebrow.

“We are neutral. When Bero’s death comes to light, Hlaalu will undoubtedly invoke a writ against Dralor as well. Not every writ has a noble intention, that is why it is required to keep the backgrounds secret. The Morag Tong is as much a religious order as a business. Besides, wealth can buy power. Would you rather two private armies meet on the streets of Balmora, and the commoners suffer from outright warfare? I think in this sense, we Dunmer are more civilized then the west, as we acknowledge the suffering that open warfare brings, and don’t paint over it with words like honor and duty.”

“I take your point. I know these things well, I guess just finding out the truth is harder then most can accept. Very Well. To Vivec, and Dram Bero shall meet his end, for I already know where he is. In Mephala’s Name…” I said accepting the Writ.

In the Hlaalu Canton, I wandered around, thinking of the best way to handle the Councilor. While I certainly had the ability to simply walk in and hack him to pieces, that seemed too inelegant an end for the Councilor whom had voted me for Hlaalu Hortator. Now it seemed I had to repay his kindness with death. A twisted world we live in.

I saw Bero exit from the Plaza in Hlaalu, perhaps from visiting Curio. I saw him making his way down. Perhaps this was as good a time as any…

“You there, Gondolier! How much for your hat, shirt, and Gondola?” I asked Aren Maren.

“Is this some kind of joke? Maybe you should leave…” he said fingering his Iron Dagger.

“The Morag Tong needs it you fool! Here. One Thousand Drakes should more then cover your expenses, and buy your silence as well!” I said handing him a large pouch, his eyes widened in shock, and he quickly took off his shirt and hat, trading it for my shirt, and shoes.

“Don’t worry, Sera. I saw nothing. I just took a break in the Elven Nations Cornerclub to get a drink, whatever happened when I came back, I did not see!” He said flashing me a wide grin, and took off to the club to authenticate his story.

Dram Bero slowly made his way to the Gondola, and my face was covered mostly by the wide circular brim of the hat. “Gondolier! To the Foreign Quarter please! And I’ll have an extra five pieces for you if we get there in the next ten minutes!” Bero said amiably, obviously in good mood.

He got on the Gondola, and set us off, not quite used to rowing this kind of boat, especially while standing, but I got the gist of it, and Bero did not seem to notice either way.

“So. Any gossip going around? Did you hear the Nerevarine’s wife was killed? Just a week ago, when they blocked off the High Fane for his wedding! A shame! A true shame! I know the mer on a personal basis too. He gave us so much, and now the poor bugger is repaid with loss. A real shame.”

I found it hard to believe that I was about to kill this man, who spoke with such compassion to my loss. But do not let respect and compassion mix together. Stay focused. Slip out the Mehrunes Razor, feel its hunger. Focus on the kill.

”I have heard recently that a Councilor was assassinated by the Morag Tong, right in the middle of the Cantons, left dead on a floating Gondola. Tragic, yet beautiful, don’t you think? If I were to die, I think I would like the sound of the waterfalls to soothe me.” I said halting the Gondola.

“I haven’t heard anything like that! Why are we…Sethyas!!” Dram became deathly white, for a Dunmer that is.

I made it quick, not wishing for him to feel any pain. Not after last time. And I left him on the boat, with a Stoneflower by his head for respect. Ilmeni’s favorite flower.

I left the shirt and hat on the boat, and dove into the waters of the bay, and swam all the way to shore. I quickly made a stop to the clothier in the foreign quarter, and then paid for passage back to Ald’Ruhn.

“It is done Grandmaster? Then to you goes the full payment of 4000 Drakes. Dram Bero now rests with the ancestors. And from what you tell me, you killed him quite cleverly. Even adding a bit of artistry to his demise. Floating on a boat in the water…so peaceful. Almost poetic.”

[canis216]

Sethyas seems like he's having a hard time adjusting to his harsh new reality. Assassination isn't an easy business within which to maintain a healthy perspective on life.

Edit: New update already! Crikey! And very interesting indeed. I've only managed to acquire two of the Grandmaster Writs myself, so I'll be interested to see how this all works out.

This post has been edited by canis216: Jan 15 2007, 01:38 AM

[The Metal Mallet]

It nice to see that Sethyas is at least attempting to give his marks painless deaths, at least, to the ones he knows.

Hopefully he and Serene can make up as well.

[minque]

Yes....yes, so appropriate, so right...Seth reacted just as I actually thought he would. Now I must say I´m a bit surprised that most ppl react so negative to Renie´s try to read their minds! It´s not that she´s prying into their heads trying to revreal deep secrets! It´s the same in RP and fanfic! She really doesn´t mean no harm! She´s trying to help, but nevermind I guess it´s quite normal to feel repulsion to mindreading!

I´m sure they will be on speaking terms with each other the next time they meet! Seth was terribly drunk that time and you know you say things you hardly remember afterwards. These updates were wonderful as always and I´m always excited when I find another update here!

I feel like I know Seth really well......