The Ice Warrior Options

[Agent Griff]

To be honest I find The Last Heir to be Red's best work. I don't know why, maybe it's the political intrigue, maybe it's the younger protagonist who's learning how to rule an Empire but I just like it more. This story is very good as well, but I find that the plot is as of yet still in an early stage of development. I mean, Erick keeps having these nightmares but they haven't really materialized into anything as of yet, except him telling Melvin about. Melvin, very characteristically of him, simply shrugged it off as nonsense.

I am sure however that more important characters like Falco or Carnius Magius will soon come into play however.

[Burnt Sierra]

You're quite right Griff, it is still very early in the story, so for me to say it's the best yet may be jumping the gun a bit.

I do however feel it has the potential to be the best yet (should have said that originally, this is what comes of pressing post before I've reviewed my comments ). I'll clarify:

I could be reading more into this than is there, but I suspect that Redsrock is trying something slightly different here. The Last Heir was certainly a great story, and was very well received within the community from what I've seen, but it did what he did best. Bags of action, excitement, pace and plot. This seems to be focusing on trying to draw a more subtle picture. More time has been spent on internal thought processes, secondary character motivations, distinctive aspects of all the different characters. He's clearly (in my opinion) done this delibaretely as an attempt to stretch himself as a writer. He's prepared to use a slower pace, in order to build the world. If the improvement in these areas combines with his usual tense plots, then I suspect we as readers might be on to a terrific story.

Of course all of my opinions are subjective, and I may be way off....

We shall see eh?

[Agent Griff]

Oh, we shall. If only I could get comments like this for my story. I'm thankful with my two constant readers however. I don't know what I'd do without either Jack Cloudy or Metal Mallet. They're both really great guys whom I really appreciate both as writers and people and I'd like to extend my thanks to them. Hopefully, now that the first two chapters of my work are posted on the main site, I'll get more readers. If there's one thing I love, it's pleasing my readers.

To be rather more on topic though, I see that you have very thorough insights and you read details very well. Quite impressive to be honest. The Last Heir isn't over however. It's still a continuing story, just that Reds has taken a break to write this story, to get his inspiration flowing once more. I did that as well, with two stories that had absolutely nothing to do with TES.

[redsrock]

Thanks, Griff, and you too BSD.

And about not commenting on your story, I'm very sorry about that. It's just that I literally don't have a lot of time for leaving feedback on others' stories. From being a Mod on two forums, school, rehabbing my shoulder and knee and ankle, and writing my own stories, there's just a lot of time.

[redsrock]

CHAPTER EIGHT


Before we could even order our drinks lunch time was over. I had spent most of the break cleaning up the mess Bruno had made when he poured water on me. The entire time I could feel the stares and I could hear the snickers. These miners thought very low of me and my fellow inmates. I suppose I really shouldn’t be that surprised, but it was very depressing all the same. It was as if it were us against the world so-to-speak.

The three of us walked back to the mines and entered our room, where Madila was already shoveling rocks left and right. J’Dato and Teemee immediately went to work without uttering a single sound. It appeared that they were both feeling sorry for me at the moment, which in my eyes was both a good and bad thing.

I was happy that the two of them seemed to care about what was going on, but at the same time I didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for me. I’ve always been deemed that aspect of my life to be more important than anything. In my opinion, to be truly be independent you have to take your licks every now and then, and simply move on with life. That was easier said than done, but that’s just life I suppose.

We dug for the rest of the day, mostly spent in silence except for the occasional water break, and finally late in the evening he horn sounded and we left our room. I left as fast as I could so that I did not have to face Bruno. Don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t scared of him by any means, but I also didn’t believe I could stand up to him in person either. Maybe Melvin was right about my disability to stand up to myself. I can’t really help it; it’s just the way that I am. I never was standoffish with anyone, not since my days in the rebel army back in Vvardenfell. But that’s a story for another day…




When I arrived at the fort, Captain Falx was waiting at the entrance with his arms crossed, seemingly for me alone. After nearing him it appeared that my theory was right, and he immediately commanded me to meet him in his office, which was located in the actual castle part of the fort. Mind you it wasn’t a large castle, at least not compared to one’s I’ve seen elsewhere.
“Erick, I want you to clean yourself up quickly, and then when you’re finished I’d like to see you in my office. Falco is already waiting, and there are a lot of matters that need to be discussed. Hurry, please.”

The tone of his voice was rather puzzling. He sounded a bit angry, but I was having a difficult time of deciphering whether his anger was towards me, or rather at Melvin. I was of course leaner towards the latter, but I wasn’t too sure. I guess I’d find out soon.

Once I bathed and cleansed by body of all the dirt and soot, I dressed myself into a nice dark blue doublet. It was clothing that all prisoners were supposed to wear to formal events, but that was rarely an occurrence. Captain Falx had not suggested I wear something extravagant, but I figure it wouldn’t hurt. Of course I still wasn’t sure what I was being summoned for.

I left the barracks area and, after getting clearance from the two guards standing outside the castle, I entered the building and headed straight for Falx’s office, which was located up a flight of spiraling stairs. There I knocked on the Oakwood door and I heard a voice from inside yell “Come in”. It was the Captain’s voice, so I opened the door and walked into his room. Inside Falx was sitting at his desk, and Falco was sitting in front of him in chair. And beside him was none other than the demon himself…Bruno.

“Please, sit down, Erick.”

The Captain clearly saw the sneer coming from my face towards Bruno, and he obviously didn’t want me to cause a scene. So rather than say anything, I simply sat down and stared straight ahead at Captain Falx.

“I take it you know why you’ve been summoned? It shouldn’t be too hard to figure out. Not after what took place before work started this morning?” Falx’s eyes were glaring into mine with a look of disappointment and curiosity. “Where you with Melvin last night when he broke into Bruno’s house, Erick?”

I didn’t know what to say. Just as I was back when Melvin was taken away by Melvin this morning, I was both speechless and confused, frozen time once again. It appeared that I was caught as well. I probably shouldn’t be surprised. I should have realized it would only have been a matter of time until they found out that I knew what happened and didn’t tell anyone.

“Erick, where you with him last night?”

I took a gulp and a deep breath, then said, “Yes, sir, I was in the woods while he performed the act.”

“Then why didn’t you say anything?” His tone was now not only disappointed, but stern and angry as well. The curiosity was no longer there, for he now knew what I knew and didn’t tell.

“I…I don’t know, sir. I was just scared. When Melvin did what he did I was totally surprised. I just…”

“You were scared to get into trouble!” Falx said as he pounded his fist loudly upon his desk, causing me to jump. “You’ve disgraced the Imperial Legion, and now Bruno is filing charges against you and Melvin!”

“What? Why me? I didn’t do anything!” I screamed angrily, glaring at Bruno’s eyes, who were fixed on Falx and Falx alone.

“You were there while Melvin did it, Erick. I know this and you this. It matters not whether you took part in the crime. You were there and that’s all that needs to be known in order to find you guilty.”

“But…but I didn’t…”

Then Falco interrupted me. “Save the stuttering, Erick. You’re caught. I can’t even think why I let prisoners into my mine in the first place, but after talking with Flax I will allow you and the other four inmates to contiunue your work. You’re lucky I’m not having you arrested. We’ll save that for the Legion investigators…”

“Oh, don’t me that crap, Falco! You’ve let Bruno do what he wants because you’re scared oh him. You have no backbone whatsoever!”

“Enough! I simply can’t even begin to wonder why you would keep such information from us. Do you realize Bruno’s wife could have been killed my Melvin’s foolishness? That knife he used to cut her eyebrows could have easily slipped and shoved through her eye! Then we would have had a damn murder on our heads! That’s enough to execute both of you!”

Captain Falx was livid with fury. His body was shaking and he had thrown several books on the floor because of his frustration.

“You’re lucky you didn’t actually take part in the crime, Erick. I will not throw you in The Can like I have done to Melvin, but you are from here on our on extreme probation. Any mishap or run-in with trouble again and you will join Melvin. Do you understand me?” He asked, pointing a finger in my face.

“Y-yes, sir,” I stammered.

“Good, let’s keep it that way, shall we? The papers filed by Bruno will be sent to the mainland tomorrow. I expect a representative from the Empire to show up within two weeks. I have idea what will happen when he arrives, but I do know it won’t be good…for any of us. Now get to sleep!”

I got up from my chair, stole an angry look at Bruno and Falco, and then walked out the door, slamming it behind me. I marched straight through the fort and to my room, speaking to nobody on the way. I had never been this angry in my entire life. I was actually surprised that I had verbally attacked Falco, but I was also glad I had done so. He deserved every bit of it, plus I needed the boost of confidence that I was able to stand up for myself. I then decided that in the morning I would ask for Falx’s audience while I explain myself. I wasn’t sure he would allow it, but I figured the attempt was at least worth a try.

I must have fell asleep shortly after that, because the next thing I knew I was in one of my dreams once again. The same things happened, the battle commenced and again I was on the ground while the Nord was on top of me. The green dust came from its mouth, I closed me eyes, and then opened them to see the werewolf. I loud howl come from its mouth and this time I looked to my side. There I saw Melvin lying on the ground with a gruesome wound to his neck. Before I could do anything else I saw the werewolf snap down on my neck, and then everything went dark.

I woke up drenched with sweat, and screaming a bit as well. My body was shaking from what I saw in the dream, something I had never seen before: Melvin, my friend, lying on the floor in a thick pool of blood. Then, from over in the corner of the room, I heard a raspy old female voice.

“Easy, youngling, it’s only a nightmare.”

I jumped clear out of my bed from fear, and I immediately stood up and looked around the room. I couldn’t see anything because it was pitch-black, save for the small amount of moonlight coming from my tiny window.

“It is foolish for you to look for me, boy. You will not find me,” the raspy voice said playfully.

“You’re…you’re invisible?” I asked, perplexed by what was going on in my very own room. The person simply laughed at my question and suddenly I was lifted from the ground and placed onto my bed in a sitting position. I tried to move but my body wouldn’t budge. Then I tried to scream but nothing came from my mouth.

“Boy, I advise you to stop fidgeting or else you are going to tire yourself. I have put a spell on you, disallowing you to move or speak. I am here for a reason, and I will not let you ruin it because of your young foolishness. I will let you speak as long as you quiet your voice. Do you have an understanding?”

Apparently she partially lifted the spell, because I was able to nod, but alas the rest of my body was still seemingly frozen, and I was still unable to talk at all.

“Thank you, Erick. Now, let me explain myself. My name is not important, but what I am here for is. Tomorrow night will mark the beginning of a new age for your Imperial comrades here on Fort Frostmoth. You and a select few will find yourselves on a quest of many adventures, but I will not go into detail what is to come to you and your friends. I will give you this ring.”

A ring floated through the air and stopped at a rest to the right of lap.

“Do not show this ring to anyone or else it will evaporate into thin air, and your fate will be decided on how fast you can run sort-of speak. When the time comes you will know when to wear it. For now keep it in your pocket. Also, another bit of advice: When the time comes you will also be in search of a weapon. Do not be afraid to take up arms against the enemy. By wearing the ring you will know what to do. Trust me. Now, I am sorry for a quick exit, but I am afraid I must leave. However, I shall answer a few questions before my departure. But make them quick.”

Suddenly I found I was once again able to talk, and I went to work fast with my questions.

“Just who the hell of you and what the hell are you talking about?”

I heard a sigh come from the corner of the room. “Boy, I have told you all I will say. Doom is coming to the Imperials on this island, though some of you are being given the opportunity to save yourself, and possibly the Empire as a whole, from what is going to happen.”

“And just what is going to happen?” I asked.

“You will find out for yourself!” The voice said, getting a bit impatient as well.

“But why me?”

“I will visit you later on; do not worry my young, Erick. Everything will make sense in the future, my boy. I promise you that. For now, go back to sleep and await the future. That is all you can do. Also, I’ve put a curse on you and you will not be able to speak with anyone about what has just happened between you and I. If you try and talk about you will instead horribly insult whoever it is you are talking to. Now, I must leave. Good luck, Erick…”

I yelled at the voice to stay, but mysteriously the door to my room opened, and the closed seconds later. I was now alone in my room, still dazed and confused. What this old woman was talking about was totally out of my mind. I assumed she was a witch, but…I don’t know. What the hell was she talking about; the beginning of a new era, unless I was able to stop it? This was very confusing indeed. So then I simply went back to sleep, hoping it was all a dream of its own…

[Agent Griff]

So the story is finally unraveling...and that Bruno honoured user has pressed charges. Can you believe that? As I said, Melvin should have slit his throat when he had the chance. Still, I liked the conversation with the voice. Conversations with floating voices are generally entertaining. I really liked the part with the curse. It would be interesting to see Erick trying to tell someone about what happened and seeing him insulting them instead. Perhaps Erick should try telling Bruno.

There were several mistakes though which made me look twice at a sentence to understand it properly. Mainly cases of forgotten words. It happens to me too though.

[jack cloudy]

But if Melvin just slit his throat, then wouldn't it be overreacting? For all of his loathsome qualities, Bruno hasn't progressed past bullying (and severe beating) yet. If Melvin had killed him then it would probably be a lot worse.

Cause remember, we're dealing with inmates here. Not only would Melvin have been given murder charges (probably leading to execution), but damn hell it would have been some bad publicity for everyone else. While I don't like Bruno, I can't quite blame him for pressing charges.


With that out of the way. Just who was that woman? Do we even know if it was a woman? Do we know the race? (I'm guessing Nord, but only since it's Solstheim.) Did Erick get to see her face? Or did he just assume that raspy voice had to be female? (If it's raspy, it could have been a male Dunmer.)

[redsrock]

Thanks guys. I believe I said the voice was a female in the chapter. If I didn't my bad, but yes it's a female. Expect the next chapter either tonight or tomorrow. Again, thanks for your continued interest...

[Agent Griff]

In Romania it is night right now. And you might call what I propose overreacting but I call 'forceful prevention means'. I think the Machiavellian traits of my fan fiction are getting to me.

Besides, Bruno deserves it if you ask me. I would think he does those things to all miners, not just to Erick's group. He seems to have a malicious nature. If Melvin would have slit his throat, good riddance. If not, let's hope Bruno gets a bear-hug from a werewolf or a loving kiss from a Solthsteim bear.

[redsrock]

The next chapter will be up later this afternoon, or tonight depending on how much MLB 2K8 I play. Also, expect the story to pick from here on out. This isn't to say the story is almost over, but now things will get exciting. ( or at least I hope you all think so...)

[redsrock]

This chapter leads up to a more exciting one. I hope you enjoy this one as well, though.


CHAPTER NINE


At last I was able back a sleep, and the next time I woke up a small ray of sunlight was shining through my window. I even heard some birds chirping as well, and on any other day to me this would be a sign of a good day, but today wasn’t like any other. Today was supposedly the end of this era and the beginning of a new one, or at least according to that old woman I heard last night.

But then again I suppose I shouldn’t be describing your appearance as of yet. I only heard her voice. It sounded like an elderly lady, most likely a witch, but I was for sure. Judging by her accent last night I would guess she was a Nord, but her tone wasn’t as strong as any of the Nords I’ve ever seen, so I wasn’t too sure about her race either. Only time would tell.

Thankfully when I walked out into the hallway everyone else was still sound asleep in their bunks, which meant the morning was still early. So I dressed myself into some simply clothing and exited the barracks area. Outside, just like every morning before work started, Captain Falx was about to leave for his morning walk. He was almost out into the forest but I called for him loudly.

He put a finger up to his mouth so I wouldn’t yell anymore, and then he waited for me to catch up. “What is it, Erick?”

“Sir, may I have a word with you concerning Falco?”

He stared at me for several seconds, as if deciding on whether to give me a chance to speak or not. “Very, well. Walk with me. We will speak once we get to the pond.”

We left the castle area and headed down the usual walking path. A light snow shower must have fallen through the night, for the ground was rather moist with water and what was left of the snow. I wasn’t really expecting to take a walk with the Captain, and because of that I was not wearing a coat. I was chilled to the bone by the Solstheim weather, but I couldn’t let it get to me. This could perhaps be my only chance to say what I have to say.

When we finally reached the pond Captain Falx sat upon a large stone, one that was under a tree and dry from the wetness. I sat on one as well beside him, and that’s when our conversation started.

“What is it that you have to tell me, Erick? You should make it quick, because the other inmates will be waking soon.”

I cleared my throat and began. “Sir, there’s something you need to know about Falco and Bruno,” I said calmly, without shouting or getting angry.

“What’s that?”

“Bruno is a brute of a bully, and Falco is scared to death of him and his gang. Bruno has been causing us much trouble since the first day. I know what Melvin did was wrong and everything, but Bruno hasn’t exactly been an angel himself…”

Falx chuckled a bit. “Yes, I figured as much, Erick. Bruno seems like that kind of sort. But unfortunately there’s nothing I can do about it.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Well, who’s to say that you aren’t simply lying to me, in an attempt to free Melvin from The Can?”

“But I’m not and you know it!”

“True, but the investigators are obviously going to side with someone who isn’t an inmate. No matter what you say, it’s word as an inmate against Bruno who is not.”

“You’re not even going to try and defend us?”

“And make myself look bad? No, of course not…”

It all made sense now. All this time I really thought Captain Falx cared about me, and thought I was good leader and someone he could count on. But it was all a mirage in my own eyes. He only wanted me to be a good inmate so I don’t make him look bad. I couldn’t believe it.

“Oh, I get it now. You don’t care about us inmates, only your own image. Is that it?”

“You hit the hammer right on the nail.”

“That’s not fair…”

“LIFE isn’t fair, Erick! The sooner you realize that the better.”

Falx got up from his stone and started walking back to the fort. I sat there for several seconds until he said to me, “You don’t by in life my taking sides for what is right, you know. You get by being a dirty person, one who will do whatever it takes to stay at the top. How else do you think I got to where I am now, eh?”

“Oh yes, you’re at a fine position: Captain of a bunch of low-life inmates on a frozen wasteland. That sounds like a grand job,” I said sarcastically, while walking past Falx and heading back to the fort on my own.

All of the inmates had taken their showers and were ready to go to work by the time I arrived. We waited for only a couple of minutes before Falx showed, looking a bit agitated by our little discussion. I’m sure he wasn’t too happy about my smartellic mouth, but to be honest, I really didn’t care anymore. No more being a nice guy and sucking up to him whenever he said something nice. From here on out Erick was going to be a changed man, one that wasn’t going to anyone walk on him…


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


I made it to the Raven Rock mine a little late for some reason, as the miners and my fellow inmates were already working. I really don’t have an excuse for arriving late, other than I had gone to my bunk room to grab a coat in order to warm up before work. And when I reached the Imperial settlement Falco had of course noticed my late arrival.

“Where’ve you been, Erick? The horn sounded five minutes ago.”

I ignored his question and simply walked past him. He didn’t like that one bit. I felt a hand on my shoulder and then I was forcefully turned around.

“I asked you a question,” he said sternly. I glared into his eyes with pure hatred, and then I muttered, “I had to grab my coat.”

I tried to leave but his grip held me in position from going anywhere. “You don’t get any special privileges. Get to work and don’t be late again or else I’ll have to report you to Captain Falx.”

He let go of my shoulder, and as I walked away I yelled behind me, “I would report to you whenever Bruno starts trouble, but then again…you’d probably start shaking in your boots at the sounds of his name. We all know how much fear he puts into you…”

I heard the rustling of snow behind me, and I realized Falco was running towards me. Again I was turned around forcefully, and this time I was thrown into the building wall as well. Falco used his broad shoulders and arms to hold me in place. I was surprised at how strong he was.

“Listen here, you’re not going to talk to me like that. I am the boss around here, not you. I call the shots, I make the rules, and I decide who is right and who is wrong! You better watch yourself, Erick, or else your attitude is going to get the best of you…if you catch my drift.”

He let go of me and then shoved me towards the door. “Now get to work.”

Teemee, J’Dato and Madila were already digging when I finally arrived, and none of them said anything to me about being late. I didn’t really expect Madila to anyway, but I was a bit surprised that the lizard and the cat were able to hold their tongue. Although it was Teemee that said he was going to watch what he said.

We dug until lunch time, and even then I stayed and continued my digging. Madila exited the mines with no emotion as usual, but Teemee and J’Dato both gave me surprised and confused looks. But when I did not look up from my work they simply shrugged their shoulders and left for lunch.

The whole day I had not spoken a word to anyone, and today I have been working harder than ever. I don’t know why; I guess it’s because mining is the only thing I have left. I don’t have a friend like Melvin to talk to anymore, and now life seems so useless. Falx never told me how long Melvin was going to be in The Can, but I had a bad feeling it was going to be until the investigators arrive.

When the others came back from break we continued our work, and at the end of the day I had dug up twenty-five ores alone. Everyone was very impressed by my work, and even a couple of Raven Rock inhabitants noticed my job. A few of them came in and whispered between one another and then yelled for Falco. He strutted in, looked at all the ebony, and said, “Good job.”

It wasn’t a real ‘good job’, just something to say so he wouldn’t look like a jerk. I didn’t care either way, and I responded to his comment with a simple, “Don’t mention it.”


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


Snow had begun to fall on my way back to Fort Frostmoth. I did not walk with Madila, J’Dato or Teemee, because honestly I didn’t feel like talking to anyone, and everyone knows how they like to talk, except for Madila of course. Right now I just wanted to be alone, to ponder the recent events, even though it’s all I’ve been thinking about all day.

Melvin was probably a mess right now, all alone and angry. I’d have to pay him a visit before going to sleep if the guards let me. But what would he say to me? Hell, what would I say to him? I was afraid he’d me mad at me for not getting him out of The Can, but the truth is that I’ve done everything in my power to free him from that dreaded cell. What he did to Bruno’s wife was certainly questionable, and because of it’s severity that is why Melvin is in The Can.

And the weird part is that despite my anger towards Falco, Bruno and Falx, I am still not surprised at their decision. In fact, if it wasn’t for Bruno being a total jerk I would support their decision. But that is not the case at all, and Bruno is in fact a bully. I tried to lobby for Melvin’s release by telling Falx Bruno’s actions have been just as bad as Bruno’s, but of course that didn’t turn out how I had originally hoped it would. Instead I was shunned away by my own commanding officer.

When I arrived at Fort Frostmoth it appeared that I was the first to get there. Of course I shouldn’t be surprised; after all I had shot out of the mine faster than you can say ‘Falx is a traitor’.

So I went straight for the dungeon and right to the entrance of The Can. As usual there was an official Legion soldier sitting at a desk with a large ring of keys. And unlike many soldiers I had ran into in Vvardenfell, this on was neither drunk nor sleeping. It made sense because The Can was reserved for foulest of inmates. But that’s kind of ironic because Melvin doesn’t fit that description at all.

“I’m here to visit the inmate, Melvin,” I said to the soldier.

He looked me up and down, and then said, “You know inmates aren’t allowed to visit fellow inmates, right?”

“Yes, I know that, but I swear I won’t cause any trouble. Melvin is my friend. I just need to speak to him for a few minutes.”

He sighed heavily and responded, “Alright, alright, just hurry up. I shouldn’t be doing this you know,” he said as he unlocked the door with a large golden key.

“Thanks,” I commented as I walked quickly through the door and into the cold cell area.

In the actual cell Melvin was lying face up on the cold stone floor. It appeared that he was asleep but once he heard my footsteps he turned his head and squinted in my direction.

“Erick, is that you, bud?”

I smiled at the friendly welcome, for I knew he wasn’t mad at me after all. It was a huge relief of course, because I had been very afraid that he was going to blame me for what happened. Why he would do that makes no sense, I realize that, but the feeling was there until now.

“Yeah, it’s me. Sorry I didn’t come sooner, but everything is so confusing right now. I’ve been trying to get you out of here, but with no prevail I’m afraid.”

“Not a problem, I understand. I’m sure you did all you could, but Falx is stuck so far up his own butt he doesn’t even see how stupid and ignorant he is.”

We continued to talk a little bit about Bruno, Falx and Falco, and about how things were going to pan out in the coming weeks. Melvin firmly believed that the investigators were going to find him guilty, and possibly send him to a larger dungeon in the Imperial capitol of Cyrodiil. I didn’t really want to think about that, but then again it’s highly likely. After all, there are not a lot of other places to go after Fort Frostmoth.

And then I mentioned the old lady from last night, and I expected Melvin to gasp in surprise, but that is not all what happened. Instead he laughed loudly. “Erick, don’t you get it? It was a dream!”

“No, Melvin, it was real, I swear it was!”

And then something bad happened. I tried to talk about the ring I was given, forgetting about he curse that was put on me.

“If you weren’t so bent on keeping your tough-guy attitude then you wouldn’t even be here!”

I didn’t mean to say it of course, but the curse forced me to. It definitely caught Melvin by surprise.

“I’m so sorry, Melvin. I didn’t mean to say that. I really didn’t…”

He just looked at me and said, “No, you did mean it. It’s okay though, I’ve been doing some thinking ever since I was put in here. Once I get out, if I ever do that is, I’m going to calm myself down and act more like you I think.”

That was very ironic since I had already decided to act like Melvin. Thankfully he did not take my comment too seriously.

“Listen…I have to go. Take care of yourself, Melvin. Be careful tonight…something awful is going to happen.”

I started to walk out the door when I remembered Winona, Melvin’s girlfriend. “What about Winona? Do you want me to write to her and explain what’s happened?”

“No, luckily Falx is letting me write to her anyway.”

“Ok, well…remember what I said, Melvin. Be ready…”

He simply snickered at the comment as I walked out the door.

[Agent Griff]

I like Erick's new "built up anger" style of doing things, and the fact that he doesn't really care for the others any more. Loner characters are ever so stylish you know, especially if they start behaving that way after being taken for fools. Speaking of fools, it seems everyone on this damn rock of an island are cold blooded bastards. Bruno, Falco, even captain Falx! The future werewolves sure have a lot on their "to-do lists" after turning into werewolves. I sense Raven Rock will be getting a lot of visits.

[redsrock]

Ha, we'll have to see about that last comment...

[jack cloudy]

Ho boy, Erick pulled a straigth 180 here. From mister nice guy to mister 'shut up and get out of my face!'.

[redsrock]

I'm trying to change him, but I don't want it to happen too fast or too sudden.

[The Metal Mallet]

There have certainly been some interesting developments since I last checked out this story. You definitely got some nice character development going on here.

[redsrock]

Thanks, Mallet. I'm really working hard on that aspect of my writing...

[Steve]

Yes, they have been developing well.
And one of them might develop into a wereworlf!!!!

lol!!!!!!!

[redsrock]

Lol, we'll see.....

[redsrock]

CHAPTER TEN


Outside snow was beginning to calmly fall from the sky. That was the weirdest part about snow in my opinion; it had the potential of causing so much trouble and so much hassle, yet it was totally silent when hitting the ground. It was quite spectacular if you ask me.

And outside also stood Falx, standing on his wooden platform like he did every day. As I looked at I could see the pride in his posture…selfish pride. He thought he was so big and bad with his Imperial issued uniform. He thinks he’s the king of the castle sort-of speak, and I guess technically he is the king of our castle.

I didn’t really feel like waiting for his evening speech, for I was extremely drained by all of the recent drama that’s been flying around, but even with my new-found ‘rebellious’ attitude I didn’t think the time was right to defy our everyday ritual. So I stood there just like the other inmates and waited for the Captain to speak, but at first he did not.

In the beginning he just stood there, gawking at us with angry eyes. I of course knew he was furious with me and the way I was treating mine and Melvin’s situation, but why he was staring everyone else down was out of my reach of acknowledgment. Something must have miffed him to do this, and people were becoming restless from standing. Several prisoners asked aloud what they were doing standing in the snow after working their tails off all day, but Falx quickly extinguished that small fire.

“SILENCE!”

A hushed atmosphere overcame the entire area, and even the official Legion guards were looking at Falx like he was crazy. Apparently that were not aware of what was happening.

“It has come under my impression that some of you feel that you are above Imperial law. You strut around barking things in my face and making claims that any other officer would have you thrown in prison for. I want to stamp out those ideas, that you think you are above me. You most definitely are not, and to show you this none of you will be given lunch breaks for a week.”

The crowd began to whisper loudly with one another, but Falx simply continued.

“In addition, we will from now on wake up at four o’clock in the morning and will retire at ten o’clock at night. You will report straight to bed and lights out at eleven o’clock. I will strictly enforce these rules, and if anyone is to foolishly break them they will be thrown in The Can for a week. I already have one person in there and I’m not afraid to add more if needed…”

At the last sentence he stared straight into my eyes, and right then I knew what this was all about. After my outburst this morning he decided to punish everyone. This showed what an uncaring brute he really was, but I shouldn’t be surprised. I just feel so stupid and naïve that I wasn’t able to see this before.

While the crowd of disgruntled inmates grew louder Captain Falx left the platform and headed straight for his office, leaving his guards to do the work of calming everyone down. Heh……good luck with that. They weren’t going to go quietly, and I doubt mere guards were going to be able to handle the intense situation.

Me, I simply left the area and entered the barracks area. I needed some sleep and I figure since we’re starting to wake up even earlier I might as well settle in as soon as possible. After all, life was going to be even more miserable now. I just hoped none of the other prisoners found out why Falx laid down these laws. Not that I’m afraid or anything, but I’d rather have friends than enemies if you catch my drift.

My room was curiously cold when I stepped through the door. I guess I shouldn’t complain too much since I’ve spent the entire day in the hot mines anyway. Besides, for some odd reason I sleep better in the cold. It must be my adaptation to this frozen wasteland.





Some thirty minutes later, as I laid down attempting to fall asleep but with no prevail, I heard a shout from outside. At first I figured it was someone tripping over another shovel or something, but then another scream followed, this one sounding fearful in a way. I sat up in the bed, immediately thinking of the old lady’s voice and that ring she gave me.

That’s when I realized I wasn’t the clothes I was last night when I received the piece of jewelry. So I got up from bed, searched through a pile of dirty clothes, and luckily found the ring. As soon as I did so the door opened and I gasping guard stood before me with his broadsword unsheathed.

“Take this blade and arm yourself, inmate! We’re under attack by the Skaal!”

The guard threw to the ground another broadsword, a rusty blade no doubt saved for those of lesser rank, and sprinted off to warn the other inmates. I looked at that sword as a painful knot formed into the pit of my stomach. I was feeling like a hundred butterflies were floating through my stomach, ones with razor sharp wings.

I didn’t know what to do at first. This situation was something that I’ve thought about from time to time, but never did I think it would actually become a reality. I suppose, thinking back now, that I really did thing the old lady’s voice was a dream. Even when explaining things to Melvin and even when I physically touched the ring…I still didn’t want to believe it to be true. But now it seems that I was wrong. I reached for the blade with a trembling hand. The hilt was cold against my palm, just like the cold wintry nights. Then I grabbed the ring and placed on my finger. A sudden feeling jolted through my body and I flew back into the wall, hitting my head in the process. I suddenly felt powerful, like anything was possible. I quite liked this feeling, and so then I darted from my room, running full speed towards the battle. It was time to fight.




The snow was falling heavier than before when I reached the scene, and quite a scene it was. Blood was spewing through the air as the Skaal Nords fought with the guards and inmates. The scene was so eerily similar to my dream, almost identical in fact. My hand shook with awe as I watched the battle. But then, after seeing an angry axe-wielding Nord running towards from the left, I realized that I was no part of this mess.

The raged warrior swung his weapon mightily at my face, but I ducked just in time and easily sliced across his leather-armored belly, causing a major and lethal gash across the skin as blood began pouring from the wound. The enormous body fell hard to the blood covered snow, along with his mighty axe. A familiar feeling was coming across me, something I once felt back in Vvardenfell, during the days of rebellion against the Tribunal. There I did the dirty deeds that brought to this island in the first place. And now it seems I’m doing it all over again, except this time to a different opponent.

While I watched the Nord fall lifelessly to the ground I began wondering about this ring I was wearing. Obviously it was giving me tremendous fighting ability, not that I was a push-over or anything. I’ve always been talented in the ‘art of war’, but this was really something. Any fear that I once had was simply thrown out the window and replaced by fierce hunger to kill.

I looked around for anyone that needed help, and I noticed Teemee and J’Dato were both fighting against three Nordic warriors with long blades. I sprinted over to one of the Nords who had his back to me, and I shoved my broadsword into his spine. He died instantly and I pulled the blade from his skin with a sickening sucking sounds. To you that might sound disgusting, but strangely enough to me it was the sound of beauty. I couldn’t explain it, but an old hobby of mine was cropping up from the long lost depths of death so-to-speak.

Teemee stabbed one of the other Nords through the chest with a wooden spear, leaving only one left. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to save J’Dato in time. The Nord has raised his blade high into the air with one hand and chopped down onto the Khajiit’s furry head. A sick noise came from the contact and J’Dato dropped to the ground, and he was no longer of this world.

I screamed as loud as possible and charged towards the Nord who had killed my partner. He turned around and readied himself for my attack, but it was of no use, I wasn’t going to fail my friend. I simply clanged his sword away with mine and then shoved my blade through his stomach, but not all the way. As he doubled over in pain I twirled my sword through the air and chopped off his head. The severed head bounced several feet away before coming to a rest next to a dead Imperial guard.

I ran over to J’Dato and saw that he eyes were still open. The wound had sunk five inches into his skull, and blood was starting to cover my shivering hands. I just couldn’t believe it. He was actually dead. I looked over to Teemee and he had knelt next to the Khajiit’s body as well, and tears were beginning to stroll down his green scaly cheeks. Even though the two would never admit it themselves, Teemee and J’Dato had a kind of friendship that was hard to understand. I knew Teemee was going to have a hard time adjusting to what happened.

Looking up from my fallen friend I noticed that the battle was already over. I must have stood frozen in my room longer than I thought. Bodies, partially mangled and some totally mutilated, lay across the snow. The color of the ground was no longer green and white, but of dark red. A crimson canvas was now the center of attention to everyone as they walked around feeling for any signs of life from the fallen. Captain Falx and the head jailor were both speaking to each other across the lawn. I patted Teemee on the shoulder and walked over to speak with Falx.

“Do you have any idea why they attacked?” I asked him, not looking at him, but towards the bodies on the ground. It was going to be a long time before these gruesome images left my mind.

Falx didn’t even look at me and grumbled, “No, I have no idea…”

Suddenly I thought of Melvin, for he was still in The Can! I asked for the keys from the jailor and he looked straight at Falx, who was still scanning the deadly scene.

“Just give it to him. What does it matter now anyway?”

The jailor handed me the keys and I bolted towards the dungeon, running as fast as my frigid legs would carry me. Once inside I headed for The Can, and to my horrible surprise nobody was there. No Melvin, no nothing. But once I neared closer to the cell I noticed a crumply old piece of paper lying exactly in the middle of the room. I picked it up and read it out loud.