Old Habits Die Hard Part Two, An old dog learns new tricks Options

[Acadian]

This was a very fuunnn story!

As Paint took the last of the carrot from Serethi, I heard the sound of hands brushing on fabric. “That’s all, Paint.”

How perfectly clever of you. Crystal clear, yet subtle. Nicely done!

Paint is an endearing character and I enjoy getting his perspective on things. Thank you for adding so much of him to this.

This is a very fun little quest and I'm so glad you paused the journey of Julian and Paint to grace us with it. I very much look forward to any interaction between Julian and Ancotar.

[Olen]

The fun of invisible monsters... and without detect life. I like the realism with which you introduced Aleswell, it's a good bit of fun but I'd never thought of what effect invisible people (and sheep) might have on a horse.

“It was pretty fun at first, but now the novelty has worn off.”

I love that line.

[Destri Melarg]

I had a sudden image of pitchforks and hoes floating into the ruins of a fort, carried by angry shouts, but no visible wielders. No wonder Ancotar hid from them.

What a great (lack of a) visual! If I were Ancotar I would be hiding too!

“Aye, even our sheep are invisible!” the Dunmer exclaimed. “Look over there! See?”

And this made me laugh out loud!

This was a great way to introduce Zero Visibility. Once again, I like the way that you seamlessly incorporated the in-game dialogue. Paint's reactions are vivid and perfectly rendered. After playing at the spy-game in Bruma and the time spent with the Blades at Cloud Ruler it is nice to see Julian back in the role for which she is best suited. Hero.

[Winter Wolf]

@Wolf:I see from weather.com that you’re currently in the 40’s and 50’s (Farenheit). Tell me, how can that compare to Bruma?

Melbourne is heaps colder than Bruma. If I was living there I wouldn't feel the cold. What with the Skyrim ale and two Nord women reclining to each side that is.

Your mom must be a hell of a woman (pardon my French), and has my respect!

My mum joined the Australian Air Force after leaving school and learnt a lot about rules and regulations. Trust me when I say that you did not answer back to her. Julian has many of her characteristics.

A delightful chapter. Paint certainly has a habit of stealing the show. That horse leaves us for dead when it comes to common sense. And style, and class! More!!

This post has been edited by Winter Wolf: Jul 1 2010, 09:44 AM

[Remko]

QFT

“Fool!” gro-Bumph growled from the garden gate, where the hoe rested on its blade. “The lady can’t see where you’re pointing, let alone the sheep themselves!”

I also thought for a second it said "Sarethi" but then read it properly hehe. Damn Dunmer names.... all look the same *grumbles*

[ureniashtram]

Got to agree with Remko there. Y'see, my cousin brought MW and played the House Redoran quests, while at the same time I was talking to our dear friend Ancotar.

Said cousin suddenly yelled 'God! Athyn Sarethi, honorable Councilor of the honorable House Redoran, just got mutilated by drunk Assassins! I (censored) you not, cousin!'

Of course, I didn't knew who Athyn was at that time, so I just shrugged it off and talked to Diram.

"Hey, Roman. I think this guy's his descendant. Look at the name; Diram Sarethi!"

"Really, Niko? Lemme see.." needless to say, he gloated, laughed teased me relentlessly until he found 'the novelty worn off'.

Such cruel irony placed upon my shoulder by fate! And to think that the word he said to me, was similar to that of Dr. Serethi!!

BUT> I didn't came here to tell a backstory (of sorts) on this quest. This chapter made me laugh several times! Good work, Hauty!!

I eagerly await the next update!

This post has been edited by ureniashtram: Jul 1 2010, 04:30 PM

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: Aye, ales well that ends well, and it will - eventually! I have to admit, I had the same problem with the Sarethi/Serethi name, when I replayed the quest after having been reading a certain Morrowind memoir! As for quieten, I meant it as a verb, i.e. to quieten a nervous horse.

@Acadian: Thanks, I had a lot of fun writing the conversation. I kept whispering to myself: I see invisible people. I hope you are not disappointed by Ancotar.

@Olen: I hated playing this quest without detect life! But when I played it with Julian, I was even more a newbie about it than she was, and didn’t even know about such a thing! I’m glad you've enjoyed it so far.

@Destri: I think Julian was the only one not laughing during that entire conversation with Diram Serethi. Though he may be invisible (and perhaps better looking that way), he was a fun and enjoyable character in the game, and I wanted to keep that aspect of his personality.

@Wolf: I’m honored that my white-haired Redguard pilus is being compared to your mother. I hope Julian measures up to her!

@Remko: Ain’t it the truth about Dunmer names?

@All Paint’s fans: I’m glad you enjoyed his attitude and perspective on all things invisible. He had a lot of fun in this chapter segment, and appreciates all your apples and carrots!

Now Julian meets the source of Aleswell’s troubles. As a science major myself, I actually enjoyed the in-game conversation, but I’m afraid Julian didn’t understand as much of it as I did!

******************
Chapter 11.4 Ancotar

The path Serethi pointed out to me dived down the cliff face and switchbacked toward Lake Rumare. Halfway down the steep slope, it led me to a ruined fort perched on a narrow shoulder of the bluff. A light breeze cooled the last rays of the westering sun as I limped east, my katana snugged into my palm. Though I saw nothing, I could feel eyes on me, not all of them friendly.

A few paces away from the fort entrance, I heard a snuffling sound coming from the tall grass just below the path. Something struck the metal disc as I spun to present my shield toward the sound. Shoving back against it came automatically, as did the swing of the katana into the space before me. The blade swished through air, not connecting with anything more solid than sunlight.

A rat-shaped shadow moved on the ground to my left, shaking its head and crouching to leap again. I took a step right to place that telltale more to my front. This time I was braced for its leap, and quicker with my blade. The brown form shimmered into visibility as the keen katana sliced through its soft underbelly, trailing blood after it. The force of my strike flipped the body away, over the edge of the path and down the steep slope.

I searched the ground for more shadows, seeing only those cast by trees and the heights to my right, where the village sat. The fort entrance sat near that immense darkness, hiding those cast by possible enemies.

A low growl gave away the presence of another creature, this time emanating from my left when I reached the keep entrance. Moving backwards drew him into the light after me, and I recognized the shadow of a wolf stalking me. Invisible monsters, huh? Just woodland creatures. Maybe worse inside the ruins. Bringing my own Kvatch Wolf in front of me, I crouched down, balancing on the balls of my feet. So you think I can’t see you, wolf? Attack me, and I will kill you. Walk away, and you live.

After a moment, the shadow turned and floated away, back into the shade of the bluffs above. I rose slowly to my full height, considering what had just happened. Did he hear me? I hated killing animals, unless they threatened me or mine. Must not have been hungry enough to go against my katana.

At the fort, I paused within its shadows to study the ruin. Most of the walkways around the walls of the keep were intact. Already much of it lay in shadow, making it hard for me to spot invisible creatures and other living beings.

“Hello?” I called, taking the risk of calling unwanted attention to myself. Above, footsteps sounded on the stones.

“Go away!” came the shout. “Whatever you’re selling, I’m not buying!”

“I’m not selling anything, sir!” I returned, heading for the staircase leading upwards. “My name is Julian, from Anvil. I seek someone!”

“If you’ve come to proselytize, I’m not interested!” Now the voice sounded closer to the stairs I ascended.

“I’m not seeking to convert anyone, either, sir!” I paused on the landing, hearing footfalls approach me swiftly. Quickly, I sheathed my katana, but kept the Kvatch Wolf up before me. The footfalls stopped in front of me. Oh great, is everyone invisible here?

“Oblivion blast you!” the voice sounded in my face. I could feel the breath on my cheeks, smell the tobacco wafting my way. I took a step back. “What do you want from me?”

“I’m sorry, sir,” I made my tone meek. “I’m looking for Ancotar. I’m told he is a great wizard.”

“I am he,” the voice said haughtily. “I am in the middle of a very sensitive research experiment. I have very little time for idle chit-chat.”

“I saw the effects of your invisibility spell, sir,” I responded. “Quite impressive.”

“Ah, yes,” satisfaction crept into his voice. “I have been working on a new invisibility spell. You have seen that it works very well.”

“So well, in fact, sir,” I commented, lowering my shield to my side, “it has made everyone in Aleswell invisible.”

“Oh, really?” Ancotar’s voice turned startled, then pleased again. “Everyone in town?” He inhaled slowly, loudly. “That must have been what all the shouting was about a few weeks ago,” he remarked nonchalantly. “I was too engrossed in an experiment that required my full attention.”

Again I had a mental image of threatening farming implements floating into the ruins. “Your research must be very effective, sir,” I said quietly.

“Ah, yes,” now a little excitement crept into Ancotar’s voice. “You see, in order to increase the efficiency of the spell, the radius was likely to approach the - ah, never mind, I must be boring you.” The excitement faded away.

“Oh no, sir, not at all,” I assured him, though I had no idea what he had just said. “Tell me more, please.”

“Ah, a fellow mage!” Ancotar’s voice warmed. “Please excuse my rudeness earlier. Most people are tedious, completely ignorant of the arcane.” He sighed. “I came here to get some privacy for my research. Instead, the local peasantry has been constantly bothering me!”

His voice took on an aggrieved whining. “‘The explosions are scaring the sheep’ or ‘a plague of rats ate all our crops.’ Every day another complaint!” Again a sigh. “No understanding whatsoever of the pitfalls of experimental magic! I finally decided that permanent invisibility was the only way to get some peace and quiet.”

“Permanent, sir?” I repeated, incredulous. Is there any hope for Aleswell?

“I know!” Ancotar’s voice turned chagrined. “You’re about to quote Vanto’s Third Law - don’t worry!” I heard fabric swishing, possibly due to some arm-waving. “I have not actually found a way to violate the Conservation of Perception! The invisibility is not actually permanent. You can tell the peasants not to worry, it’ll wear off - eventually.” That last word came out just slightly uncertain.

“Eventually, sir?” I asked warily.

“Well, in a year or two, maybe a bit more.” Ancotar admitted. “There’s no way to be absolutely sure. That’s the exciting thing about basic research!”

“Are you certain you want to put up with disruptions for another year, sir?” I asked. “Wouldn’t that interfere with your research?”

“Hmm, well,” Ancotar grew thoughtful. “The peasants have been unusually bothersome lately. Sometimes I can hear them coming, but other times -” his voice trailed off.

“Perhaps if you restored their visibility, sir,” I spoke carefully, “and then took precautions with subsequent experiments, especially with their area of effect -”

“Are you saying they might bother me less?” Ancotar inquired. “Hmm, that is reasonable. Problem is, can those peasants be reasonable?”

I’m certain they entertain the same doubts about you. I kept my thought to myself. “If their normal routine is not disrupted, I doubt they’ll bother you any more, sir.”

“Well, if you think so, fine.” Fabric rustled again, then a different crackling rustling followed. “Here,” he placed something into my hand. “Take this,” he said, as a scroll shimmered into visibility in my hand. “Just stand in the center of the village, to make sure you get everyone. Oh, and make sure - oh, never mind. Should be fine,” he muttered the last few words to himself.

My eyes narrowed at him. “What is this, sir?” I asked.

“That’s my reverse invisibility spell,” he answered. “Just read it in the middle of the village. It should work, although -” again his voice trailed off.

“Should work, sir?” I repeated, even more wary than before. Again, Ancotar pressed something into my hand, or rather onto my right ring finger.

“Just in case, it might be best to wear this ring while you cast the spell,” he said as I looked down to see a plain metal band. A script I didn’t recognize encircled it. “I make them myself,” he continued, matter-of-fact. “Very useful for this kind of research. Not that I think anything will go wrong. Serious side effects are highly unlikely.”

“Thank you, sir,” I turned for the archway. “Good night.”

“Good night, Julian,” Ancotar said. My feet stopped on the stairs as I glanced back over my shoulder. “Yes, I have heard the rumors, too. I’m not completely isolated here, you know.” I heard him chuckle softly. “Being invisible does have its advantages, you know.”

“Yes, sir,” I kept myself from shaking my head. As I limped toward the dirt path, I considered my impressions of Ancotar. Is that what all mages are like? My feet found the road back to Aleswell in the gathering dusk and I continued on. Incompetent like Jeanne Frasoric? Foolish jokesters like J’skar and Volanaro? Pompous kiesters like Ancotar? Thoughts of my visit to the Arcane University passed through my mind as I began to question my decision to enter the Mages Guild. But Raminus Polus and Tar-Meena were very nice to me. So was Selena Orania. Well, the Legion is no different, and I survived that for twenty years.

Masser and Secunda greeted me as I reached the top of the bluff, my limp more pronounced after the hike. Finding the community garden empty of gardening implements, I made my way carefully around the plants to the center. My back to the moons, I unrolled the scroll and squinted at the strange script.

Once I made certain the ring Ancotar had given me was still on my ring finger, I muttered the strange words aloud, “Epai-onny Nai-kym-ai-toi-my-ys!” A faint purple light cascaded around me, shimmered into darkness. Looking around me, I saw only Paint watching me patiently.

It’s dinner time, I realized. Better head to the inn and see if Serethi can be seen. Suiting actions to my thoughts, I weaved my way through the crops out of the garden. With a pause to rub Paint’s neck, I entered the inn.

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Jul 11 2010, 07:39 PM

[SubRosa]

Ahh, the invisible animals. Julian is lucky she is doing this at low level. Invisible mountain lions are murder when you do not have detect life! I also see the wolf thought better of attacking Julian. That is the second time a wolf has done so, and Julian has wondered if it heard her thoughts. Hmm, is this foreshadowing perhaps?

Ancotar was well portrayed. Now that he is invisible, I suppose he does not have to worry about things like shaving, or combing his hair. Julian's very diplomatic way of talking him into lifting the invisibility was well done. She shows the tact that she doubtlessly learned from decades of dealing with officers in the legion.

[Acadian]

Another very fun installment.

I'm with SubRosa on the wolves. I wonder if they don't care for staring down the mighty image of the Kvatch wolf that Julian offers them. Regardless, nice touch.

I loved how Julian dealt with Ancotar. Her wisdom, borne of experience really shone here, despite being a touch befuddled by Ancotar's arcane doublespeak. Once again, you have taken a fun quest and 'filled in the gaps' so it makes wonderful sense and progresses in a perfectly logical manner.

I also like the way you routinely present interesting ways of filling in the environmental backdrop. Like this:

Masser and Secunda greeted me as I reached the top of the bluff, . . .

Julian's intimate first person perspective, combined with her ability to 'Julianize' familiar and well-loved aspects of Oblivion make her journey a joy to read!

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jul 1 2010, 06:34 PM

[Winter Wolf]

I really enjoyed this, one of my favourite quests in the game. Yippee!

I'm with SubRosa on the wolves. I wonder if they don't care for staring down the mighty image of the Kvatch wolf that Julian offers them.

Or perhaps those Boots of Kynareth that Julian has tucked away somewhere.

“I saw the effects of your invisibility spell, sir,” I responded. “Quite impressive.”

Very smooth Julian. Always appeal to a mage's ego!!

This post has been edited by Winter Wolf: Jul 2 2010, 07:18 AM

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: That was exactly how I wanted to portray the interaction between Ancotar and Julian: as an experienced sergeant “handling” a less-than-ideal officer. As for the encounter with the wolf, let’s just say that Julian has learned a thing or two during her years in the Legion.

@Acadian: I’m not sure how much the wolves recognize themselves on the Kvatch shield. In this case, as in the previous encounter, it has more to do with Julian’s body language than anything else. There is actually a level of communication that goes on between predator and prey, where the predator will assess the prey’s response to its presence and act accordingly. Thus, a lion is unlikely to attack an adult elephant or wildebeest that stands its ground and faces it (though in rare cases starvation has driven them to it). Instead, they choose to go after a prey that turns away and runs, or a prey that avoids eye contact. I’m glad you too enjoyed Julian’s interaction with Ancotar.

@Wolf: Appealing to a superior’s ego is the best way to manipulate things your way. Sometimes it makes me wonder who is really the superior there!

Now we get to enjoy the aftermath of Julian’s successful quest. In the morning (the next post), we’ll be back to serious stuff.

****************
Chapter 11.5 Haunted No More

A brown-haired Dunmer greeted me happily. “Julian! You did it! You made us visible again! Thank you!” Serethi, recognizable by his voice, clapped me on the shoulder, rocking me on my feet. “Come in, come in!” Turning toward the patrons gathered around the hearth, he hailed the two Dunmer women. “Adosi, Urnsi! Food and ale for our savior Julian!”

The two scowled at me, but one headed for the bar, and the other bent over the kettle at the fire. “Umm, I should take care of Paint, first, ser,” I remarked, turning to Serethi.

“Of coursse,” an Argonian approached us. “You will want to take care of your horsse, get him ssettled for the night.” He bowed slightly out of respect to me. “I am Ssakeepa, the ssheepherder. He can sstay with my ssheep tonight.”

“Thanks, I’m sure he won’t mind the company, sir,” I responded as the Argonian stepped past me to the door. With a nod at Serethi, I followed Sakeepa out into the night. He waited while I moved to Paint and collected his rein, then led me past the community garden to the sheepfold.

“We do not have grain,” Sakeepa turned his head to speak over his shoulder at me. “But the hay is nutritiouss, and your horsse is welcome to hiss sshare.”

As we approached the sheepfold, a great white dog rose from his position at the gate, his black eyes on Sakeepa, his feathered tail waving happily. “Thiss iss Drift,” the sheepherder said, dropping one hand onto the dog’s broad skull. “He guardss the ssheep againsst wolvess and other creaturess.”

Regarding the dog, I paused as the big animal walked over to me, his tail waving slowly behind him. He came nearly to my waist, and I knew he could easily tower over me if he stood on his hind limbs. Beside me, Paint dropped his nose to Drift and blew softly. The dog nudged Paint’s head with his nose, then returned to the pen.

As Sakeepa opened the gate, Drift floated through and moved among the sheep, gliding around them as they bunched into a far corner away from the entrance. He worked silently, gently shouldering the fluffy creatures in the direction he wanted them to go.

At Sakeepa’s gesture, I led Paint into the pen, and unbridled him. The headstall over one shoulder, I picked up the pack and slung it over my other shoulder. The gelding stood quietly as I unfastened the girth and slid the saddle off his back.

Sakeepa had filled a bucket with water and attached it to a clip set in the low stone wall of the sheepfold. He pointed at the manger, heaped high with hay, its sweet aroma tickling at my nose. By the way Paint’s nostrils fluttered at it, I knew he liked the idea of eating it.

Sakeepa took the saddle and bridle from me, and carried them into a small room set in the side of the fold. He placed the saddle on a round hay bale, hanging the bridle neatly from the pommel. “I’ll take care of it later, after we eat,” he said to me, waving me back toward the gate.

The sheep swarmed around us as we left Paint. Sakeepa glanced back at me. “Do you have any appless or grapess in your pack?” he asked.

“Apples, sir,” I answered. “For Paint.”

“The ssheep ssmell them. They love appless.” Sakeepa nodded at the woolly beasts surrounding us. “Drift,” he spoke to the dog, who started shouldering a path through the flock for us. As we reached the gate, the big canine again drove the sheep back, giving us space to leave the pen unmolested.

“Now, friend,” Sakeepa clapped his hand on my shoulder. “Come back to the inn, have ssome dinner. It’ss on me.”

“Oh, I can pay for -” Sakeepa held up his hand and stopped my protest.

“No, if I don’t pay for it,” his teeth shimmered in a toothy grin, “ssomeone elsse will. Let’ss go, I’m hungry.”

Back inside the inn, he led me to a table where a big Orc was already seated. “Hello, Julian,” he greeted me as I sat down across from him. “Dinner’s on me, ma’am.”

“No -” Sakeepa protested, but gro-Bumph shook his finger threateningly at the Argonian.

“You take care of the horse, Diram’s got the room covered, I take care of the food and drink!” He glanced sidelong at me. “That everything you need, ma’am?”

“Uh, yes, as a matter of fact, it is, sir,” I answered, smiling. “I appreciate your generosity, all of you.”

Serethi grinned at me. “I can’t tell you how great is is to see myself again!” he exclaimed. “Although I wouldn’t mind if my sisters,” he rolled his eyes at the two women I had noticed earlier, “had stayed invisible!” He dissolved into laughter, drowned out by gro-Bumph’s guffaws.

One of the women came up, dropping a stew-laden plate in front of me with a clatter. “You really enjoy this whole hero thing, don’t you?” she said sarcastically. “Everybody fawning over you like this? Forget it, I’m not like that.”

“You would prefer we fawn over Ancotar, Urnsi?” gro-Bumph growled. The scowling woman scoffed.

“If he’s smart, he’ll stay out of my way!” she snapped back. “High Elf and a mage to boot, the worst kind of arrogance!” she tossed her yellow locks back over her shoulder.

“I have to agree with you, muthsera,” I said quietly. “But not all Altmer are like that.” I remembered some of the battlemages I had worked with in the Legion. Some were like Ancotar, haughty and distant, others were more friendly and down-to-earth. Race didn’t seem to matter, either. One of the most approachable battlemages I knew was himself an Altmer.

“Oh, I don’t think so,” the other woman joined her sister, setting a mug of ale in front of me. “He’s a typical Altmer, thinks the whole world is created just for his convenience.” Her frown deepened when I moved the mug to gro-Bumph’s elbow. “If I had my way,” she continued, “we’d go down there and burn him out! Let him find someplace else for his little ‘experiments!’”

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you, muthsera,” I advised. “As arrogant as he is, he’s liable to cast another invisibility spell on you and leave you ghosts for the rest of your lives.”

Adosi scoffed wordlessly and huffed back to the bar. Urnsi regarded me sulkily. “What’s the matter, our ale not good enough for you?” she gestured at the mug I had passed along to gro-Bumph.

“I don’t drink ale, or wine, muthsera,” I answered, meeting her gaze squarely. “Not anymore. Klah, or water, if you have it, is fine.”

Urnsi scoffed again, but gro-Bumph shushed her. “Get the Redguard some water, Urnsi,” he growled. “And shut up!” Regarding me thoughtfully, he took a huge swallow of the ale. “Sorry about those two,” he said quietly. Why?

“That’s all right, sir,” I answered. “They’re not your responsibility. Don’t ever apologize for them.” I glanced over at Serethi, his gaze on the floor. “Nor you, Diram. They chose to be the way they are, they’ll just have to accept the consequences of their behavior.” I smiled to relieve the tension the two Dunmeri had left behind. “After all, they’re adults.”

The Orsimer guffawed, clapping me hard on my shoulder and almost knocking the fork out of my hand. Sakeepa and Serethi joined in heartily, then the Dunmer innkeeper left the table momentarily. He returned a few moments later with a tumbler of cold water. “I’m glad you don’t take their words to heart,” he said to me, more seriously. “They don’t like any one but each other.”

“That’s fine, ser,” I answered. “Ancotar doesn’t like any one but himself, either.” I looked around at their faces. “He is focused on his research, which requires concentration, hard thinking, and yes, experimentation. He resents disruptions.”

“Sso do we!” Sakeepa exclaimed, the other two men nodding in affirmation. “Explossionss loud enough to sscare the ssheep soo badly they won’t eat or leave the fold? An invassion of ratss that ate all our cropss? Funny lightss at night that keep all of uss awake? Invissible monssterss?”

“One thing I’ve learned over the years,” I remarked, keeping my voice down, “in order to get what you want, you have to give a little, as well. Both you and Ancotar want peace and quiet. Both of you will have to respect that of each other.” I met Sakeepa’s gaze calmly. “Yes, scaring the sheep and losing the crops are terrible things, but the sheep looked happy today, didn’t they, sir?” Sakeepa nodded grudgingly. “And your garden, sir,” I looked at gro-Bumph, “looks like it is thriving, is it not?”

“Yes, it is,” the Orc admitted, just as grudgingly. “But how did you get what you needed from him?”

“I asked about the research he was doing,” I replied, shrugging my shoulders. “Honestly I have no idea what he was talking about, but I listened anyway. He gave me the reverse invisibility scroll after we chatted a bit.” And the ring. I still don’t know what it does. Maybe Polus will help me.

Pushing my empty plate away, I leaned back in the chair. “As I understand it, research involves trying something and recording what happens. He will find the results interesting, and may continue that line of research. I would hope that he will show more consideration of the effect of the results.”

“Hmmph,” Serethi scoffed. “I find it difficult to believe that he would do so.”

“I actually think he’s a bit lonely,” I commented.

Sakeepa spluttered onto the table, while gro-Bumph stared at me incredulously. “Lonely?” he roared. “Lonely?” he scoffed. “Balderdash!”

I smiled behind my tumbler. “It’s true, he is arrogant towards those who show no interest in magic or his research.”

“Well,” Sakeepa said after a few moments of silence, “I say live and let live. It was an unfortunate accident, and as you say, Julian, he did help make it right.”

“Exactly,” I answered, tipping my half-empty tumbler towards the Argonian in acknowledgement. Finishing the water, I set it down with a soft click. “It feels late, and it’s been a long day for me,” I glanced at Serethi. “Do you have a bed I can rent, ser?”

“No!” Serethi exclaimed. “The first room upstairs, on the left, is yours for free, as long as you want it!”

After a moment’s consideration, I nodded my gratitude at him. Reaching down for the pack, I smiled at the others. “Thanks for your hospitality, and the company,” I said, making certain to include the Serethi sisters. “It was a pleasure to break bread with all of you.”

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Jul 11 2010, 07:40 PM

[Olen]

11.4 (got ninja'd there)

That was a fun part, Ancotar's personality was spot on - I've met pleanty who aren't so different (though in general the effects of magic research are more fun than those in RL).

You have me intreuged with the wolves, the first piqued my interest but I'd more or less discarded as a throw away comment, now this... I can't imagine what it is though.

Your point on there being suspiciously few normal mages made me chuckle

11.5:

Nicely resolved, you show another side of Julian having her attempt to broker peace between the villagers and the mage and in the limited space they recieved you managed to give them a fairly diverse range of personalities. Great stuff.

After all, they’re free, citizens and twenty-one, right?

'twenty-one' jarred a little for me as I very much doubt that in a quasi-medieval society like that in Cyrodiil the age of being adult is anything like that. Perhaps 'adult' or even just neglecting it would be better?

And now back to serious things and finding daedric artefacts... I can't wait

This post has been edited by Olen: Jul 3 2010, 05:01 PM

[SubRosa]

I am with Olen here. Julian's efforts to mediate a peaceful coexistence between Ancotar and the Aleswellians was well done. She shows more of those diplomatic skillz that she undoubtedly learned as an nco.

Likewise with the depth and life you gave the villagers, and their animals (who once again shine through - trust a vet to write animals so well). Again you seamlessly worked in the game dialogue with new ones, making the two sisters behaviour make more sense as well.

I was not bothered by the mention of age. In ancient Greece and Rome people took on specific responsibilities and gain rights based upon their age. In Athens at 16 a boy had his hair ritually cut during the Apatouria festival, and was reintroduced to his phratry (a fraternal kinship group based on genetic ties). This was essentially his first step towards citizenship. Then at 18 he attained legal majority and was required to serve in the military for two years. Finally at 20 he reentered society as a full citizen.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Jul 3 2010, 07:06 PM

[Acadian]

Nicely done, Rider.

Julian's people skills were fully on display.

This is a fun little quest and you really brought it to life.

[Remko]

To this day I am still wondering what the hell the guys in Beth were thinking when they called the town Ale-Swell

Lovely chapter. It's details like this that make a story come to live and you ace'd it

[haute ecole rider]

@Olen: Your remark about the “free, citizens and twenty-one” is a good one. I’ll have to think about it - after all Tamriel has several intelligent races, all of which have different life spans and different “ages of majority.” I’m glad you enjoyed Julian’s brief visit in Aleswell.

@SubRosa: I’m glad you enjoyed the animals as much as I enjoyed writing them. Sheep are pretty stupid, and lack a sense of self-preservation (hence the essential need for a herding dog like Drift, who is actually modeled after a RL herding Great Pyrenees I know). I hope Julian will see more of Sakeepa and Drift when she’s on the north side of the Red Ring Road. I always liked his invitation to come sit awhile.

@Acadian: Thanks!

@Remko: I think they meant Ales - well! As in Ales well that ends well! Thanks for enjoying this little side quest.

Julian seeks out our Bosmer friend today, and gains new respect for him.

*******************
Chapter 11.6 An Education from Gwinas

The Watchman standing outside the Talos Plaza Gate greeted me as I limped up the hill in the misting rain. “You’re moving better, ma’am,” he said to me. Surprised, I glanced at him. He’s right.

“It’s hurting less, thanks,” I said. Those healing spells every night are working. “Of course, then I go and do something stupid like run from a mace-wielding assassin because I left my weapons at the smith’s.”

His grin flashed beneath his helm at my wry tone. “We’ve all been in that situation, ma’am,” he commented. “Don’t forget your backup weapons next time!”

With a chuckle, I entered the City. Just within the entrance, I watched the changing of the Watch and realized it was now noon. Remembering what Gwinas had said, I decided to head to the Tiber Septim Hotel. Even though I was out of my class there, I had to find out if he was still staying there.

The imposing facade and double bronze doors gave me pause, but I drew up my courage and entered. Within, a grand hall made of two wings at right angles to each other nearly tumbled my confidence. At the far end of each wing, a fire crackled merrily in marble hearths, bringing warmth to the cold stone floor and walls.

A blond Imperial woman standing next to a carved inn counter watched me with an assessing glance. Taking a deep breath to bolster my tattered nerve, I limped to her. “Hello,” I greeted her, self-conscious of my plain clothes, my dust-stained pack. “I’m looking for Gwinas, ma’am.”

She eyed me warily. “Yes, I remember you, you helped Gwinas,” she said finally. “I’m Augusta Calidia. Welcome to the Tiber Septim Hotel. He’s at lunch, upstairs,” she pointed to the stairs at the far end of the right hand wing.

“Thank you, ma’am,” I said. I turned and headed for the stairs. An old man, dressed in a white mages’ robe, descended the stairs as I reached the bottom.

“Good day, ma’am,” he greeted me affably. “Ontus Vanin, retired. Sleep late, read trashy books,” he grinned at me mischievously. “I don’t keep up with Mages Guild affairs anymore.”

I regarded him for a moment. Maybe mages do know something useful. “I’m Julian, from Anvil, sir,” I said. “Do you know of any Daedric shrines around here?”

“I know of three,” his eyes grew distant. “Hircine, is south of the Imperial City, northeast of Bravil, between the upper Niben and the Green Road.” He paused, thinking. “Then there’s the Meridia Shrine, northeast of the junction of the Silver Road and the Red Ring Road.”

“By Roxey Inn, sir?” I asked. He nodded.

“Up in the mountains above Roxey Inn,” he confirmed. “And I’ve heard the Vaermina Shrine is at the headwaters of the Reed River, though I’ve never been there myself.”

“Thanks,” I said. “And you said you’re retired, sir? From the Mages Guild?”

“I spent forty years at the Arcane University,” Vanin answered. “Good years. But I don’t miss it. Now I’m completely useless, and I’m proud of it.”

Forty years? And I thought twenty-five in the Legion was a long time! I smiled at him. “I hate being useless, sir,” I commented, “so I’m looking for some other purpose.”

“Ah,” Vanin returned my smile. “But you’re young yet,” he assured me. “You’ll find your purpose for - oh - another twenty years or so.”

“Maybe by then I’ll be ready to retire and enjoy being useless, sir,” I responded. He chuckled and walked past me. I turned back to the stairs and headed up.

Entering the dining hall, I spotted Gwinas’s yellow topknot at one of the tables. He looked up at my entrance, and nearly dropped his spoon into his soup in surprise. I crossed the room and paused opposite the table from him, gesturing at the chair next to me. “May I join you, Gwinas?” I asked.

He nodded uneasily. I set my gear down on the floor and took the chair, noting his nervousness. Goodness, I really scared him pretty badly back there in the Market District. How to put him at ease now?

“Hello,” I spoke quietly to the Dunmer serving-woman approaching our table. “What do you recommend for lunch? I’ve traveled far.”

“W- well,” ducking his head nervously, Gwinas pointed at his bowl with the spoon, “the slaughterfish soup is qu- quite delicious, especially with today’s nut bread.” It does smell delicious. Perfect with this fall weather.

“Then I’ll have some of that,” I said to the server. “And some water with it, too please.” As she moved to the sideboard, I turned back to the Bosmer. “And I never got to thank you for your help with the Mythic Dawn,” I was anxious to put him at ease.

“M- my help?” he stammered. Rewarded by the slight relaxation in his face, I nodded. “How was I helpful?”

The server returned with the soup, a chunk of bread, and a tumbler of water. As she set the meal before me, I crooked a finger at her. She leaned closer. “I’ll pay for his meal, too,” I murmured, pointing at Gwinas.

“Yes, ma’am,” she bobbed a curtsy at me. “The wine, too?” she indicated the tall green bottle near Gwinas’s elbow. Surilie Brothers.

“Of course,” I said, trying not to wince at the thought of the cost. If he can help me locate a Daedric artifact, it will be worth it, I tried to convince myself. The Dunmer named a price that caused my heart to stutter, but I reached into my purse and counted out the drakes.

As the wiry Dunmer withdrew, I turned back to Gwinas, who hid the surprise in his expression. “Thank you, but there’s no need -” he began. He stopped when I shook my head at him, anxiety rising again in his eyes.

“You helped me before, with the book you gave me,” I kept my voice quiet, “and the note from the Sponsor,” I watched as his eyes gleamed at the recollection. “They gave me the information I needed to complete my mission.”

“Your mission was successful, I h- hope?” Gwinas asked querulously.

“In a way, yes,” I answered, thinking of the Mysterium Xarxes, and of Jeelius. I should look him up in the Temple of the One. I did promise him.

“Well, then, I’m glad to be of assistance,” Gwinas waved his spoon over his bowl. “But to pay for this, and the wine -” his voice trailed off.

“I can use some more assistance from you,” holding his gaze, I took a sip of the soup. Yummy. “This is quite delicious, Gwinas,” I commented when I had swallowed my mouthful. The anxiety in his expression increased in spite of my words. “No, it does not involve danger to you, sir,” I added. “Rather, it is your knowledge I seek.”

His brows shot up. “M- my knowledge?” he repeated, interested in spite of his unease. “Of what?”

“I’m to find a Daedric shrine,” I answered. “I remember you mentioned a couple -” looking at the ornate ceiling above me, I remembered his words, “- ah, Sheogorath, I think, and Hermaeus Mora.”

“Ah, yes,” Gwinas nodded. “Mehrunes Dagon’s shrine was to be my last one.” He failed to suppress a shudder. “Thank you for keeping me out of that one. What I’ve heard of the Mythic Dawn -” his voice trailed off.

“I don’t think you would have been happy to find his shrine,” I assured him. “Believe me, I wasn’t. They were about to sacrifice a priest from the Temple of the One when I found it.”

The Bosmer’s eyes widened in horror. “Blood sacrifice?” he shuddered again. Taking a deep breath, he grew calm again. “But you wanted to learn about other Daedric shrines?”

“Yes,” I answered. “I need to find a Daedric artifact, and I honestly have no idea how to go about it.” Taking a bite of the food, I swallowed before continuing, “I just spoke to Ontus Vanin, and he mentioned Hircine, Meridia, and Vaermina.”

“And there’s Azura,” Gwinas added. I nodded.

“I read Modern Heretics,” I offered. “But I don’t want to tangle with will-o-wisps, thank you very much.”

Gwinas nodded in agreement. “I bought some glow dust, myself, for that one. Those things scare me plenty!” He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. I started to see the dedicated scholar come to the fore. “Hermaeus Mora you can find only by invitation,” he said. “I was invited there after I visited all the other shrines, except, of course, Mehrunes Dagon’s. I don’t think you want to bother with that one.” He sat back in his chair, regarding me thoughtfully. “How are you at traveling?”

“All right, I guess,” I shrugged. “I’ve got a sturdy horse, weapons, and supplies. Why?”

“Quite a few of these Shrines are some distance away in the wilderness,” Gwinas said. “Take Peryite, for example . . .”

We spent the next hour hunched over the table, Gwinas marking the locations of the various shrines on my map, and explaining what each one required. He also told me the quirks of each of the Daedric Princes, which I found invaluable - I didn’t want to perform a task that went against my grain as a Legion soldier.

Finally, we sat back in our respective chairs regarding each other. “I think you have earned your lunch,” I remarked, “and that bottle of wine.”

“I hope so,” Gwinas responded. He seemed at ease with me now.

“I’m told you’re from Valenwood,” I said. “I served there several years ago, when I was in the Legion. It was my first posting after recruit training.”

His eyes brightened at me. “Which part of Valenwood?” he asked.

“Arenthia,” I answered. “The city was okay, but I really liked being in the forest.”

“Did you?” Gwinas seemed pleased. “Why?”

“It was beautiful,” I answered simply.

Gwinas nodded. “The forest is mostly unchanged since the Merethic Era,” he said happily. “Imagine when the Ayleids and beastfolk roamed Cyrodiil, before Man came from the North, when the Aldmeri wizards ruled from their towers -” his voice faded away as he became aware of whom he was speaking to.

“That’s all right, Gwinas,” I said quietly, trying to reassure him. “I don’t deny that the Mer were here first.” I smiled at him. “Some of my best friends in the Legion were Mer, and it was an Altmer battlemage that saved my life.” I leaned my chin on my hand, my elbow on the table. “Tell me about the trees - I always wondered about them. Are they really intelligent?”

We passed the next few hours, sharing memories of this province that still seemed so alien to me. Gwinas told me about the walking city of Falinesti, which had recently stopped walking, for reasons that remained unknown, even to the Bosmer which dwelled in its branches.

Finally, we stopped when the Dunmer woman announced dinner. “I think we had better stop,” I said, turning away from her.

“I’ve enjoyed passing this time with you, Julian,” Gwinas replied, smiling. “It was good to talk about Valenwood with someone who has been there, if only in a small part of it.”

“I enjoyed it, too,” I rose to my feet. “But now I need to see another friend.”

“Shall I see you again?” Gwinas asked me wistfully. I glanced at him as I gathered up my gear. I could see the loneliness in his gaze.

“Probably,” I said. “I’ll be traveling a lot in the foreseeable future, but as long as you’re staying here, I’ll look you up when I’m in the City.”

“I would love to hear of your travels!” Gwinas exclaimed. I raised my eyebrows at him.

“You’re pretty well-traveled yourself, Gwinas,” I commented. “I learned a lot from you this afternoon.” I straightened up, the pack and shield over my shoulder. “Thanks again for your time, and your knowledge.”

“It was my pleasure,” Gwinas rose a little unsteadily, from all the wine, I thought to myself. “Farewell Julian, until we meet again.”

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Jul 11 2010, 07:42 PM

[SubRosa]

Ahh Gwinas again. My favorite Bosmer Daedric cultist. A good segment describing Julian's intelligence-gathering before setting out upon her actual mission. I notice you did not tell us exactly which shrine she decided to go after though. Not a problem, I understand that you want to wait to reveal that until she gets there. We know that she has at least a stop in the Temple of the One next segment, and who knows what might happen on her way to the shrine. So it could be a while before she even gets there.

The Watchman standing outside the Talos Plaza Gate
So was that Nite Owl I or II? Ozymandias? Or one of the other Watchmen?

Within, a grand hall made of two wings at right angles to each other nearly tumbled my confidence.
I liked the turn of phrase at the end, which eloquently shows how ostentatious displays of wealth can be overawing to people not accustomed to it. I personally always feel distinctly uncomfortable in places like that.

“I hate being useless, sir,” I commented, “so I’m looking for some other purpose.”
This really describes Julian to a tee. It is why she joined the Legion, why she fell so hard on skooma and self-loathing, and why she is so dedicated to her new position as a Blade. Just living is not enough for her.

before Man came from the North
So when did Woman come?

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Jul 5 2010, 11:09 PM

[Acadian]

I really liked several things about this.

- You devoted much of this to conversation with Gwinas. That allowed you the 'room' to fully develop things and lavish so much delicious detail. Wonderful dialogue and descriptions and Julian's internal thoughts all very skillfully woven together. Oh, and the soup and wine were tasty as well.

- Oh my! How wonderful that Julian found someone who could fill her in so fully on Daedric Shrines, even answering questions about them. I really liked that!

- I see you also have researched the home of the Bosmer. And who better to tell Julian of the beauty and mystery of the forests of Valenwood than a Bosmer. Like you, I am fascinated by what cities like Arenthia must look like, and moving trees that reach up to the very clouds. Buffy so longs to visit the land of her ancesters south of the Strid River.

Yep, just a joy to read!

[Olen]

I like Gwinas, the way you portray him is refreshing and interesting. He's well rounded now and a bit of an enigma given that he seems fundementally ok but equally must have performed favours for the likes of Molag Bal and Mephala and seems not to regret much. His motives for doing it interest me too, I'm sure they're there but you didn't let enough slip for me to be sure.

And a nice bit of intellignce gathering, it really adds to each event having it preceeded and followed (if the content of the next part is as I suspect) but planning and reaction.

As for which daedric shrine... Azura seems possible with bought glow dust but seeing as she hasn't already I think it might be Meridia. Or less likely Peryite depending on what Gwinas thought of him. I await with interest.

[Winter Wolf]

How fantastic that you have gone into a research of the most noble of all the lands of Tamriel.
Ahh, Valenwood, you have brought a tear to the eye of this old war dog.... Thanks!

This post has been edited by Winter Wolf: Jul 7 2010, 09:52 AM