Jerric's Story, A Nord's Adventures in Cyrodiil Options

[Grits]

mALX: Thank you, mALX! I'm glad you for highlighted the growing friendship between Lildereth and Jerric. Remember the hard time she gave him when they first met? They’ve come a long way!

King Coin: You’re right about the potency of the poison, I gave the necromancers as much credit as Lildereth for their poison making. I never felt threatened by damage poisons in Oblivion, and then a chaurus nailed Rowan in Skyrim. The trapped chest was inspired there, too. Oh, and using the advanced alchemy idea here comes from the game glitch that gives those necromancers hundreds of potions. Really, they should be pushing around shopping carts with all of that in their inventory! Thanks, KC.

SubRosa: It’s neat, you can actually hear whistling wind in the game. That chop and step back gave me trouble, since Jerric’s fight was all in the corridor and very boring. Finally I just cut most of it out. It’s funny, I thought of Farscape too, because in the first season Crichton and Sun are constantly “falling” into each others’ arms! I promised L and J that I would not make it a habit.

Acadian: Those three sentences that you pointed out just wrote themselves, and I didn’t really notice it. Now that you’ve drawn it to my attention, it’s my favorite moment in the episode. Thank you for that! The orange and pink is a flashback to the fun we had vampire hunting with Aravi. That happy ending was the last thing to click into place. I had to wait until it did, because I was not going to leave Lildereth lying on that floor!

McBadgere: Thank you, McB! And you did it to me first, with Aeirawen and the crossbow bolt! Only we had to wait days to learn she’s better than OK.

Where we are: Meridia’s task has been successfully completed. We find Darnand and Jerric at the Shrine of Sanguine, Daedric Prince of Naughty.



Chapter 13: Part Eight, Sanguine

Darnand walked up the hill toward the Shrine of Sanguine with Jerric at his side. Nerves made his stomach feel tight. It was easy to see that Jerric shared his disquiet.

“What’s it like to talk to a Daedric Prince?” asked Jerric.

“It is as if one's skull has opened and the words are laid upon the exposed mind.”

“Ugh,” said Jerric. “I can’t wait.”

“Meridia’s voice was not precisely painful. Though I expect that it might have been so, if we had returned to her with news of failure.”

“Yeah. But instead she called you a champion and gave you a ring. I wonder what Arkay thinks about that.”

Darnand preferred not to dwell on that subject. He had performed invocations to Arkay over the desecrated bodies in Howling Cave and then hastened to Meridia’s shrine to receive her favor. The sense of wrong lingered. “I hope that our deeds are weighted more than our motivation.”

Jerric still looked concerned. “I know it might be different here, but what do you think the summoning ritual will be like?”

“His coven will decide if we may approach with our offering. It will be up to the Prince himself to speak to us, if we please him. There was no ritual in the sense that we use to bring lesser daedra bodily into this realm. Our presence at the shrine should be enough to attract his attention.” Darnand fervently hoped this was so. He was not inclined toward debauchery, and his only dark passions were of the mind.

They reached a flat, open area furnished with benches and chests. A giant statue loomed ahead, beyond the hill’s crest. Darnand could see Sanguine’s horned head and fleshy torso rendered in stone, but the rest of him was hidden. Like Meridia’s, this shrine was concealed by the land but readily accessible to those who knew where to look.

A bald wood elf trotted down from the shrine to meet them, silken robe flapping open around his bare legs. Darnand’s stomach heaved again. He felt the bottle neck slip in his sweaty palm. The Bosmer halted in front of them, blinking up expectantly.

“We wish to visit the Shrine of Sanguine,” said Darnand.

“You have nearly reached it,” chirped the Bosmer. “This is our place of celebration. We dance, we make love. Will you join us in our worship, or would you speak with the Lord Sanguine?”

“We would speak with him,” Darnand replied. Jerric shot him a look. Darnand had to agree that he did not sound anxious for hedonistic revelry.

“Have you brought an offering?” asked the mer, hands on hips.

Darnand held out the bottle of Cyrodiilic brandy.

“Splendid! I see you are not mere tourists. Approach then, and bring the gift for your host. We have a number of celebrants presently at worship, but you really should return for one of our parties. The Pleasure Pavilions are heated and fully supplied. You will not need anything else.”

Jerric and Darnand exchanged an uneasy look. “All right then,” said Jerric. “Let’s go.”

“Oh, no!” laughed the elf, pointing a playful finger. “You will not need to bring anything else.”

Darnand realized what the underdressed mer meant just as a crescendo of squeals drifted down from the shrine. Panic iced his skin. Whatever unseemly demands were about to be made of him, he was certain he would be unable to rise to the occasion.

Jerric’s hand engulfed his shoulder as the Nord braced himself to pull off his boots. “I guess I’d better handle this one,” said Jerric.

Thank the Nine, thought Darnand. Then it occurred to him that he ought to leave the Divines out of this.

“My name is Engorm,” smiled the Bosmer, looking Jerric over.

His friend did not seem bothered. “I’m Jerric. Pleased to meet you.” He took the bottle and sauntered away, leaving Darnand clutching an armful of warm laundry.

Darnand settled himself on a bench to wait. Two nights of camping at Doomstones had left him exhausted and irritable. Jerric alone had gained a new spell at the Aetherius Stone. Neither of them could determine why these Stones would not awaken for Darnand. He had spent most of both nights kneeling on cold rock while Jerric kicked and groaned in his sleep.

It could have been moments or an hour later when Jerric strode back over the hill. His friend looked completely at ease despite the chill. He has forgotten that he is unclothed, Darnand decided. He amended that thought when the brandy fumes reached him. Wordlessly he began to hand Jerric his clothing.

“Well?” Darnand asked as Jerric fastened his belt.

“I got off easy, compared to some. I guess you don’t have much left to prove if the Daedric Prince of Debauchery already knows your name. Anyway, I have to go pull a prank in Leyawiin. Sanguine thinks the countess throws boring parties.” Jerric stomped into his boots. “Leyawiin. Dammit! I thought I was just going to have to hump a couple of those daedra worshippers. At least that would have gotten this business over with.” Jerric gave Darnand’s arm a squeeze. “It’s a good thing you stayed down here. Sometimes you see a thing and just can’t look away, and you don’t have anything handy to gouge out your eyes.”

“I am surprised you are not planning to return for one of their orgies,” Darnand remarked.

“No thank you. I don’t need to read that scroll to know how it ends.”

Darnand shot him a curious look.

“Well here’s how it would go,” Jerric explained. “You show up in your best shirt to find that Engorm fellow and a crowd of his friends who look just like him. Where are the women, you wonder. Then you realize that some of them are women. The minstrels start to play, and someone passes a bottle around. Now you’re dancing, and some more attractive women have shown up. Or maybe they’re the same ones, but who could tell? More empty bottles hit the ground, and you lose track of who’s doing what to who. And what does it really matter? Then you wake up with a sore head and discover that it wasn’t just a dream.”

Darnand opened his mouth, but no words presented themselves.

“Not that it’s ever happened to me,” Jerric added. “But that’s the thing about orgies. They’re always full of folk that you wouldn’t normally take for a ride.”

They started walking back to the horses. “When is this party?” asked Darnand. “I should not like to change our plans. Leyawiin will mark the end of our journey, or the turning point if we return over land.”

“He made it sound like it could be any dinner party. She does a lot of entertaining. Countess Caro, she’s the one I have to prank. Abiene’s folk live in Leyawiin, I wonder if any of them will be there. I guess they're in amongst the nobles pretty often. You know, moving up through the ranks. That’s why she acts so prim and proper all of the time.”

Darnand gave Jerric his full attention. “What is your meaning?”

“You grew up in a ‘good’ family, right?”

“Indeed.”

“Me too. But we had our place, and we didn’t try to change it. Didn’t stop me from doing what I pleased. Pissed off my Ma plenty, but she always forgave me. Well, I did move to Anvil for a couple of years, but you know what I mean.”

Darnand sought his patience. “My grasp on your thread of reasoning is tenuous.”

“What I mean is, no matter how I screwed up, I knew my family would be there. I was never afraid of losing them. I don’t think Abiene has that. She still feels like she’s being judged all of the time.” Jerric looked over expectantly.

“I suppose you are right,” said Darnand. “I never considered straying outside my father’s guidelines. His expectations seemed reasonable.”

“You mean you never wanted to get legless in the market square, draw private parts on a statue, or throw a hump into the wrong girls?”

“Such behavior would not have been becoming to a member of my family. Our standing in the community meant visibility, and with that came responsibility.”

“So, yes, but you didn’t.”

Darnand finally understood. “Whether I was born to fill a role or whether I grew to fill it, I do not know. The result is the same. It seems that you felt free to sink beneath your station. I am uncertain what you are saying about Abiene.”

“I’m not saying anything about Abiene,” Jerric said quickly. “That’s just what got me started thinking. My family is gone, but even standing back there bare as a Billy and knee deep in a cluster-hump, I wouldn’t have to worry about my Fa turning away from me. You played the good lad, but your brother threw you out anyway. Abiene’s folks are still living. Even on the other side of Cyrodiil she feels like Countess Caro is watching her.”

Darnand thought about it. “I know that my father would… No, there are things of which he would not approve. And yet I will still pursue them. If he gave me any legacy, it is confidence in my own judgment.” They walked for another moment. “Countess Alessia Caro of Leyawiin is the daughter of Countess Valga of Chorrol. I have met them both.”

“Yeah?”

“Alessia Caro is quite short,” said Darnand. “But she has an impressive bust for an Imperial.”

“Good,” Jerric grinned. “The prank has to do with getting naked.”

[mALX]

Darnand realized what the underdressed mer meant just as a crescendo of squeals drifted down from the shrine. Panic iced his skin. Whatever unseemly demands were about to be made of him, he was certain he would be unable to rise to the occasion.

“I guess I’d better handle this one,” said Jerric.

He has forgotten that he is unclothed, Darnand decided.

I guess you don’t have much left to prove if the Daedric Prince of Debauchery already knows your name.

SPEW !!! ROFL !!!! Jerric: always at the ready to perform if needed, ROFL !! The whole second half of this chapter had me rolling !! Awesome Write !!

[ghastley]

Where are the women, you wonder. Then you realize that some of them are women. The minstrels start to play, and someone passes a bottle around. Now you’re dancing, and some more attractive women have shown up. Or maybe they’re the same ones, but who could tell?

I just hope this part is not based on original research.

[SubRosa]

“It is as if one's skull has opened and the words are laid upon the exposed mind.”
This is a wonderful description. Much better than just listening to a thick Scottish accent.

I also loved Jerric bringing up Arkay, and Darnand's musings on how he said prayers to Arkay over the bodies, then went to Meridia for the loot. It could easily look hypocritical. But at the same time, welcome to polytheism. In such religions, you do not ignore every deity except one. In this case, there are two deities with a common interest - the eradication of necromancers and undead. There is no reason mortals should not to turn to each for help in accomplishing that goal.

So Jerric is off to join the mazola party! I am guessing this will not get mentioned in any letters back to Abiene. Like Falanu told Varla, what happens at the Sanguine Shrine, stays at the Sanguine Shrine!

Neither of them could determine why these Stones would not awaken for Darnand
Because he is an NPC, rather than a player character?

Aww, it looks like Jerric did not get any action at the party. Just as well, he would have needed to eat some mandrake afterward.

Sometimes you see a thing and just can’t look away, and you don’t have anything handy to gouge out your eyes.
You have just described nudist beaches to a tee. Orgies too. I have had the opportunity before too, and always declined. Like Jerric, that is a scroll I do not need to read to know the ending.

Darnand's brother threw him out? Was that in a past episode? If so, I apologize for forgetting it. My guess is that Darnand is the second son then, and so does not inherit anything. IRL, men like him often joined the clergy. Joining the Mages Guild is a very similar alternative. Over in the TF, Valerius is a third son, so all he got was a horse, a suit of armor, and a sir in front of his name. That is why he is a landless mercenary.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Dec 30 2011, 08:44 PM

[Acadian]

This was delightful! So much so that I barely missed dear Lildereth. Sanguine is surely my favorite quest in the game and I can think of no one to whom it is better entrusted than Jerric.

I can only imagine how much fun you had writing this, and love how you brought out the ‘hedonistic revelry ever so much better than the game does.

Darnand is right. That is quite a hike to Leyawiin, so I know he was pleased that Jerric learned their timing for this was not overly critical.

Can I tell you again how much fun this whole episode was to read?

Jerric slipped his bare foot into his mouth somewhat regarding Abiene, but somehow managed to emerge from that conversation unscathed.

’Darnand sought his patience. “My grasp on your thread of reasoning is tenuous.”
Oh gosh, I like this so much. Firstly, your word choice and construction of this passage is pure magic – I am so jealous! Secondly, it captures Darnand to a tee. Thirdly, how fun it is to have a character who is such an academic intellectual that he can think and speak the way he does.

[McBadgere]

...Brilliant...

Oh hells I love this story... ...

And here's me listening to a song about A Glass Of Champagne... ...

Oh this...

“Well here’s how it would go,” Jerric explained. “You show up in your best shirt to find that Engorm fellow and a crowd of his friends who look just like him. Where are the women, you wonder. Then you realize that some of them are women. The minstrels start to play, and someone passes a bottle around. Now you’re dancing, and some more attractive women have shown up. Or maybe they’re the same ones, but who could tell? More empty bottles hit the ground, and you lose track of who’s doing what to who. And what does it really matter? Then you wake up with a sore head and discover that it wasn’t just a dream.”

*Opens mouth to say something...*

*Raises eyebrow...*

*Closes mouth again...*

...

*Robert misses his early twenties...*... ...

Brilliant writing...Loved it hugely...

Fantastic... ...

Nice one... ...

[King Coin]

Those chaurus and falmer are some of the worst enemies in the game!

Now onto the chapter:

The Ring of Khajiit! I bet Lildereth is in possession of that artifact now.

Fantastic description of listening to a deadra.

Haha, I figured Jerric would handle the daedric lord of debauchery. I thought Jerric would have been involved with the, ahem, worship until he described what happens when one worships Sanguine. Very good reasons to stay away!

This next quest will be quite fun!

[Grits]

mALX: Jerric is definitely the guy you want with you at the Shrine of Sanguine. So that you can pants him and run. Thank you, mALX!

ghastley: Cyrodiilic brandy goggles? Pure speculation, of course.

SubRosa: Exactly, the fellows know that both Arkay and Meridia approve of their actions, but they are unsure if the Divine’s and the Daedric Prince’s overlapping interest has produced an alliance, a rivalry, or just indifference to one another. Sanguine and Dibella do not seem to get along, for example. In most cases it could turn out badly for the mortals in the middle. Here’s the snip about Darnand from Chapter Nine, posted long ago. Jerric returned to Anvil after Kvatch in a semi-feral state, and Darnand took care of him:

“How did you know?” Jerric asked.

“I lost both of my parents when I was seventeen. It was a carriage accident. My brother threw me out of the house before the end of the week. My friends didn’t know what to do with me.” Darnand met his eyes without pity. “Keep doing the little things, they’ll remind you how to live.”

Their common losses, Jerric saving his butt on the Gold Road, and Abiene’s concern for him are what made Darnand reach out to Jerric. It’s not something he would otherwise do. Thank you for your comments, SubRosa!

Acadian: I remember clever Buffy with her errant tresses at the dinner party so well! I shudder to think what Jerric might consider an equivalent wardrobe malfunction. Thank you, Acadian! It was certainly fun to write.

McBadgere: Thank you, McB! Jerric made me grin in this episode, too.

King Coin: Lildereth does indeed have temporary custody of the Ring of Khajiit. I’m afraid that Darnand was more horrified than even I expected. And for good reason! Thank you, KC!

Where we are: Jerric, Darnand, Lildereth, and Kvatch Guardsman Jesan Rilian are camped along the Red Ring Road. Jerric and Darnand have finished their business in County Skingrad: securing recommendations from the local Mages Guild chapter, earning the Ring of Khajiit from Meridia, and receiving an assignment from Sanguine. They proceed now to the Imperial City, where Jerric and Rilian will speak for Kvatch before the Elder Council. A refresher on their history, Jerric pulled an arrow from Rilian’s throat during the Battle for Castle Kvatch. That decision indirectly cost Ilend Vonius his life.

Thernd, Equestria, and the Valley of Horses are the wonderful creations of Acadian and Buffy. Many, many thanks for allowing them to grace Jerric’s world!



Chapter 14: The Imperial City, Part One

Jerric, Darnand, Lildereth, and Ulfe sat around the campfire. By their third night of travel with Jesan Rilian, the young Imperial had slipped into their routine as smoothly as if he had always been with them. Another night of clear skies and mild temperatures let them leave the tent packed and simply spread the bedrolls under the stars. Darnand used the extra time in study. Lildereth was quietly grooming the dog. Rilian trotted back and forth carrying firewood and water. Jerric made soup.

“Explain to me why you can’t cook the soup by heating up the pot,” Jerric said to Lildereth.

“The metal gets too hot and cools too quickly. Next time I could heat the pan for you to sear the meat, if you like.”

Jerric thought about it. “Then why don’t you just heat the soup?”

“I could, but you would not want to taste it. Heating water that way is fine. It doesn’t scorch.” Lildereth nodded down the path to the creek before Jerric could form his next question. “About Rilian. His youth may strike the right note with the Elder Council, like you said. However, his beard…”

“I know,” Jerric sighed. “He looks like he ate a toffee apple and played in the dirt. I keep expecting Ulfe to hold him down and try to wash him.”

“It’s your fault. Half of Kvatch started growing their beards when you walked onto the plateau. What do you plan to do about it?”

Jerric ruefully scratched his jaw. “I’m going to shave mine.”

Rilian sloshed back into camp carrying the canvas water buckets. “This one’s leaking quite freely now,” he cheerfully announced. “I’ll make another trip if I need to.”

Jerric filled the kettle. “I think this is enough. We can carry our own backsides to the creek for washing, but we should boil our water this close to the Imperial City.” Jerric glanced across at Darnand. “Why can’t you put a charm on these so they hold water?”

“I am able,” said Darnand. He frowned at his parchment, then bent back to his book.

Jerric tossed a stick at his friend, earning his attention. “Well?”

“I have worked out the spell already,” Darnand scowled, rubbing his forehead. “It is the same enchantment that I will use for Abiene’s rain bracelet. The spell that allows one to walk upon water, weakened and spread over one’s person instead of only the body’s plantar surfaces. It should shed water in that application, or contain it when applied to a vessel’s interior. Nord, must you fling projectiles at me?”

“All right, then. Here you go.” Jerric held out the dripping bucket.

“Do you have a portable enchanting alter?” Darnand demanded. “Do you have full access to the Arcane University? If so, please enlighten me as to the purpose of this venture.”

“You would have to keep the buckets charged,” said Rilian. “They don’t have magicka to power the enchantment.”

The other three looked at him. “Are you a mage now, soldier?” asked Jerric.

The young Imperial’s smile took on a dreamy quality. “I like to talk to Sigrid Fire-Walker.” He settled himself beside the fire. “Why didn’t you already have a second name?” he asked Jerric. “I’ve heard a lot of stories about you. You should have been Jerric the Something.”

“Ogre-Stones was taken,” Jerric explained, biting his cheek. “How about Jerric the Red. I bleed a lot.” He placed another log on the fire.

“Jerric the Flatulent,” suggested Lildereth. “His Argonian name could be Sits-With-Thunder.”

“Jerric the Vomiting,” said Darnand, still sounding irritated. “Jerric the Fountain.”

“Jerric the Dragon-Tongued,” Lildereth said, “or so I’ve heard.”

Jerric lost a moment to panic. How could he keep Abiene’s secrets if she didn’t keep them herself? Rilian sounded like he was choking. Jerric reached over and thumped him on the back, grasping for an explanation.

Lildereth saved him from further blundering. “I am surprised by the number of women in Anvil who are eager to tell their tales of you. What is there to brag about? They say you’ll bed anyone who slows down walking by.” She picked another burr from Ulfe’s coat and flicked it into the fire.

Jerric started to breathe again. “If they’re willing.”

Darnand closed his book and looked around at them. “Since the subject has been broached, I believe I might shed some light on the nighttime practices at the Skingrad guild hall.”

“You slept with Adrienne?” Jerric asked hopefully. “I must be used to the noise, I didn’t even notice.”

Darnand ignored the remark. “They do not fill all of their magicka gems with the energy that is released when a soul leaves the body.”

“I wondered about that,” said Jerric. “Baskets full of gems, and not one of those silk and velvet mages looks like they have shoes for walking, much less hunting. And you saw poor Erthor when he got back inside the walls, he’s no killer.”

“Adrienne casts a spell to capture the energy released when coupling.”

Jerric took a moment to figure it out while Lildereth murmured to Rilian. “So that’s why she… And everyone… Dibella’s breast! I missed a real opportunity there.”

Darnand snorted. “She casts it upon herself.”

“Druja?” asked Lildereth.

“Does not participate. I have heard of strange doings at that guild hall, but no one has ever explained it.”

“And now you know,” said Jerric, watching his friend.

“And now Adrienne owes me three hundred fifty Septims,” Darnand declared.

Only the crackling fire replied.

Darnand’s grin made him look like a lad. “Not really,” he chuckled.

“Still a maiden, then,” Jerric teased through their laughter.

“Indeed,” said Darnand. Then he flushed crimson while they all stared at him.

“The… uh… soup… burning!” Rilian finally managed.

It wasn’t, but Jerric stirred it anyway. “What’s the plan when we get to the city?” he asked. “Are we staying together?”

“I’m staying at the Arcane University,” Lildereth said. “I have business there.” She played with Ulfe’s ears for a moment, then she looked at Darnand. “I can get you into the Chironasium, but I don’t know those spells you were talking about. You’d have to do the enchanting. I warn you, it will be expensive. And I’ll blame you if they catch us.”

Darnand looked like a lad on Saturalia morning. “I did not wish to impose… Lildereth, we must… Jerric, what other..?” He scrambled for his quill and fresh parchment.

Jerric had an idea. “I used to have a feather ring, but I…” He glanced at his friend.

“Lost it dicing,” Darnand supplied, scribbling furiously.

“Yeah.” Jerric grinned. “Maybe we could enchant Flash’s pack with a feather spell. Then we could--”

Darnand interrupted with brisk authority. “That would be more expensive to make, and costly to keep working. Flash does not have magicka for the enchantment to use. As with Rilian’s bucket, it would need to be recharged. If you wore a feather enchantment, your horse could carry more. An Alteration charm works through your magicka, but does not drain it. That is why your feather ring did not work when you tried it on a horse.” Darnand gave Jerric a smug glance.

“How did you know about that?” Carahil had said that illusion didn’t allow mages to read thoughts, but Jerric still wasn’t convinced.

Darnand snorted. “It was not difficult to surmise. I suppose that must have been a different animal. What have you tried on poor Kip?”

“Not my water breathing ring, thankfully.”

Darnand started to reply, then he turned to Lildereth. “You do not suppose…”

“I’m not going to try it at the Praxographical Center,” Lildereth told him. “We won’t get you past Gaspar and Borissean. Those two were difficult to deal with even before the new restrictions.”

Darnand frowned. “Perhaps in Chorrol…”

Jerric waited as long as he could. “Perhaps in Chorrol, what?”

His friend’s eyes refocused. “I was thinking that the guild halls have facilities that are no longer in use, since Arch Mage Traven introduced so many regulations. Each chapter’s enchanting and spellmaking altars still exist, as do various portals, teleportation pads, scrying mirrors… Even the altars used in necromancy still occupy their places in some of the guild halls. In addition, many private amenities are doubtlessly quite operational, though they are now unsanctioned by the guild. I wonder…”

They suddenly became aware of the County Kvatch law enforcement officer sitting wide-eyed in their midst.

“Not my jurisdiction,” said Rilian.

“I am most familiar with the Chorrol guild hall,” said Darnand. “And it is there that I am most likely to receive forgiveness.”

“I prefer my plan,” said Lildereth. “Let’s not get caught.”

Jerric noticed that Darnand was still writing. “I could see about picking up a contract from the Fighters Guild if we need more coin,” he said. “It will take more time, but I’d hate for you to pass up an enchanting opportunity.”

“What about the Arena?” Rilian asked Jerric. “I heard you used to compete in Kvatch.”

“Back when I was your age, and not the event matches. Just the empty hand tournaments. I’m not going to risk killing someone for a game. Besides, it seems like a bad idea for a guard to show the whole city what he can do with a sword.”

“I will stay in the Mages Guild hostel,” Darnand announced. “That will not cost us. Jerric, you and Rilian are on Kvatch County’s coin. You may find me through the guild when you have concluded your business. I will have much to occupy my time, if I gain access to certain private libraries.”

“Steward Matius recommended an inn for us,” Rilian told Jerric. “I have directions from the Weye bridge.”

“Weye,” Jerric said. “I have some friends in Weye. I wish we had the time to visit them.” I have a friend at Luther Broad’s Boarding House, too, he thought. I will take the time to report to him. “What about the horses? There are liveries outside the city, but I don’t know them.”

“Equestria in the Valley of Horses,” Lildereth said promptly. “It’s below the Arcane University. The stable master is a friend, though it’s been years since I’ve seen him. I’ll take them for you, Jerric, unless you plan to go all the way to the university first.”

“What if he’s not there anymore?” Jerric asked her. “Things happen.” The thought of Flash and Kip in unknown hands disturbed him.

“He’s still there. Thaurron told me. They only accept horses that belong to guild mages, though.” Lildereth sent an apologetic glance at Rilian.

“Not a problem,” Jerric said. “I know a fellow in Weye who will keep your horse, Rilian. He might keep Ulfe, too, if she’ll stay. Retired fisherman, plenty of time and loves horses. Your Ipean will be spoiled rotten by the time we’re through in the city.” Jerric stirred a handful of chopped herbs into the soup. “That sounds like a plan, Lildereth. You and Darnand can leave us in Weye. We’ll get Ipean settled, and maybe Ulfe. We’ll walk in with just my pack and Rilian’s little satchel. Do you mind taking the rest of our gear? Maybe your friend will have a place we can store it.”

“His name is Thernd,” Lildereth told him. “I will keep Ulfe with me, unless she stays at Equestria. Thernd has trained imps that patrol the valley and keep the horses safe. Ulfe got along well with Sparky, so I don’t foresee a problem. If anything we’ll have to coax her away from Thernd when we leave. He’ll put her to work, but she’ll love it. He has a way with animals.”

Jerric glanced across the fire. “Does that work for you, Rilian? Say, tear up that bread, will you?”

“Sure,” said the Imperial, reaching for the loaf. “Our inn is on the edge of the Elven Gardens district. I’ll head back to Kvatch as soon as we’re through with the Elder Council. Weye is right on my… way.”

Jerric got out a wedge of cheese and started slicing it onto his board. “What are you doing at the university, Lildereth? Charm school?”

Lildereth opened the wine. “In a way. I hope to train with Martina Floria. I will leave word for Darnand at the hostel, should my plans change.”

Darnand looked up from his list. “Will you accompany us to Chorrol?”

For a moment Jerric thought she wasn’t going to answer. “I have not decided yet,” she finally said.

“All right then,” said Jerric. He didn’t want to think about losing Lildereth, but a maybe was far better than a no. He started scooping soup into wooden bowls. “I guess we still have time to argue over who gets to keep the dog.”

[McBadgere]

ACE!!... ...

Loved it!!...This always make me laugh...The second-names discussion was so funny... ...

“I have worked out the spell already,” Darnand scowled, rubbing his forehead. “It is the same enchantment that I will use for Abiene’s rain bracelet. The spell that allows one to walk upon water, weakened and spread over one’s person instead of only the body’s plantar surfaces. It should shed water in that application, or contain it when applied to a vessel’s interior. Nord, must you fling projectiles at me?”

I was like..."Yes, yes *Nods* liking the idea...Excellent explaination..." Then I got to the "Nord, must you" and I just burst out laughing...Oh my god that's just funny right there that is... ...

Sooo brilliant writing...

Oooh, the "Catching the energy released when coupling" spell sounds fun... ...

Nice one!!... ...

*Applauds most heartily*...

[SubRosa]

This is my second time replying, as my browser ate the first one. So it will sadly not be as in depth as originally.

I loved the scene of the three musketeers (plus their new fourth) sitting around the campfire. As always, all three shine in their own unique ways. The discussion of nicknames for Jerric was simply priceless. I am with Lildreth on his Argonian name.

I also liked the extra depth you once again gave the Skingrad guild hall. It is like an onion, with so many layers. The addition of sex magic was pure brilliance on your part. But in retrospect rather obvious, as sex magic is as old as sex and magic after all, and was a cornerstone of Pagan religions.

You have also once again given us more excellent world-building concerning the Mages Guild, and how they have locked up all the spell and enchanting altars at the local guild halls, giving the Arcane U a monopoly that can be strictly monitored.

Wonderful nods to the JF and BF, with the mentions of Equestria and Aelwin's private stabling service!

[mALX]

“He looks like he ate a toffee apple and played in the dirt. I keep expecting Ulfe to hold him down and try to wash him.”

“It’s your fault. Half of Kvatch started growing their beards when you walked onto the plateau. What do you plan to do about it?”

ROFL !! Jerric as the trendsetter of fashion in Kvatch - he is their hero, but still that had me rolling!

The young Imperial’s smile took on a dreamy quality. “I like to talk to Sigrid Fire-Walker.”

SPEW !! This should have read, "I like to talk to Sigrid's Fire Walkers!"

The whole discussion of names for Jerric had me rolling!

I have gotten used to them being three, it will be very hard to see that broken apart. (Although I doubt Jerric will bring them to his meeting with Mr. B at Luther Broads...unless of course he meant he was going to "Luther's Broads" like Rachel's "Edward," lol).

Awesome Write !!

[Acadian]

Delightful! I love the quiet campfire circles you write.

“Adrienne casts a spell to capture the energy released when coupling.”
How very efficient! Perhaps it helps to explain the shortage of children in Cyrodiil.

‘They suddenly became aware of the County Kvatch law enforcement officer sitting wide-eyed in their midst.
“Not my jurisdiction,” said Rilian.
How smoothly you work dear Jesan into the gang. What a magical way you have with managing dialogue within a small group!

I think the world of Sigrid Fire-Walker for so many more than two reasons.

Thank you so much for featuring the Valley of Horses and Equestria! What a beautifully concise description you provided!

Warning: You are not allowed to write Lildereth out of Jerric’s story!

[King Coin]

“I am able,” said Darnand. He frowned at his parchment, then bent back to his book.
Darnand is hilarious in this one! I love it when he gets difficult with the others. Nice use of the water walking spell.

Sits-With-Thunder!!!

Lots of planning in this one. Equestria! I wonder if Buffy’s in town?

Oh I hope Lildereth stays with them. She’s such an awesome character. Great chapter Grits!

[treydog]

Back when it seemed a good idea to transfer to my Kindle and annotate there... Well- I have a history with "good ideas."

All of which is to say- there are comments- I will locate them- and I will post them. Because this story DESERVES whatever small accolades I can provide.

[Grits]

McBadgere: Thank you, McBadgere! Poor Darnand, unraveling arcane mysteries while his friend bounces sticks off of his head.

SubRosa: I had the same feeling about the sex magic, once it popped into my head I thought of course that’s what they’re doing! Campfire scenes are so fun to write. Thank you, SubRosa!

mALX: It’s so tempting to make Baurus hide out in a brothel now! I miss Rachel’s story. Thank you for pointing out Kvatch’s beard-growing in honor of their hero.

Acadian: If I tried to write Lildereth out, she would simply not allow it! I’m having enough trouble with Abiene annoyed over being shuttled off to Chorrol. Both of them have planted the seeds for short pieces of their own while I’ve been so distracted lately. Thank you, Acadian! Rilian just sat down by the fire like he belonged there. Thank you so much for letting Flash, Kip, Banner, and Ulfe frolic in the wonderful Valley of Horses while their two-legged friends visit the Imperial City!

King Coin: Thank you, KC! I love giving Darnand his irritable mage moments. I’m glad you pointed out that line, I actually thought of you when I wrote that part.

treydog: Thank you, treydog! Your comments are so very appreciated.

Where we are: The Imperial City. Darnand and Lildereth are off pursuing their own interests. Jerric and Rilian bring a message from Kvatch to the Elder Council. This episode turned out shorter than ususal, because... it just did.




Chapter 14: The Imperial City, Part Two


Jerric stepped through the door, past the Palace Guards, and out of the White Gold Tower’s shadow. He closed his eyes for a moment, drinking the sunlight in through his eyelids. The breeze was as fresh as any the Imperial City had to offer. The air in the council chamber had felt lifeless and thick.

He turned when he heard footsteps. Rilian stood grinding his teeth with his sword belt in one hand, the Colovian Signet Ring clenched in the other.

“I thought that went well,” Jerric ventured, buckling his own belt.

“They didn’t solve anything, just postponed their decision,” Rilian fumed. “Acting Steward is not Steward, and a Steward is not a Count.”

“None of those is a prisoner. They could have handed you a writ for Savlian’s arrest and told you to bring him back for questioning. Anyway, they’re nowhere near deciding on the next count, and there hasn’t been an heir since the Goldwine lads were killed. For now Savlian is Kvatch’s highest authority, whatever they want to call him. Why did they make you keep the ring?”

Rilian opened his hand and looked at it resting in his palm. “To give Savlian their approval without actually stating it. The new count will get the ring from Acting Steward Matius. Then he can make Matius his Steward if he wants, and give him the job he’s already been doing. Loyalty for nothing! Captain Matius…” Rilian clenched his teeth over the words. The ring disappeared back into his fist.

“Jesan.” Jerric waited until Rilian looked up at him. “You made our city proud today. It was decided before we ever got here. And it’s done. Savlian can lead the city as long as those old fetchers in there keep dragging their feet, no matter what they call him.” He gripped the young man’s shoulder. “Now let’s find some of that Nibenean pale ale and see about getting you laid.”

Rilian still looked furious.

“I know a brothel,” Jerric continued. “I wasn’t offering personally.”

Rilian battled himself for a moment. “It can’t be past three bells of the afternoon. I could get as far as Weye, and…” Eventually he managed a weak smile. “We ought to change out of uniform first.”

“Good thinking.” Jerric looked around the circular plaza. “Now, which way is the damnable inn?”

Rilian’s outlook improved considerably after the brothel. The two of them strolled along the water on the way back to the Elven Gardens District. Jerric marveled at the engineering that washed filth into the sewers while keeping surface waters clean. It seemed that nothing was wasted in a city with this many folk. Any scrap that dropped to the ground was scooped back up by thin hands. Even a slip of paper could feed someone’s fire.

The King and Queen Tavern provided a royal feast and thrones to sit upon while dining. Jerric and Rilian put away mountains of roasted vegetables, spit-cooked beef, boiled potatoes with Colovian butter, sliced glass-house tomatoes, and pitchers of pale, bitter ale. They talked a little of the future, but mostly they traded memories. Eventually Jerric pulled Rilian to his feet before his face could land in the pie plate.

“Up,” Jerric told him. “Bed. Sleep in tomorrow. You’ve earned it.”

Rilian answered with a mumble. Jerric reversed his direction and dragged him out to the privy.

Back in the room, Rilian proved easy to manage.

“Boots,” said Jerric. “Blanket. All right, here’s a bucket. Rilian! If you need it, here’s a bucket.”

Jerric left Rilian curled in the center of the bed while he moved to the desk. Parchment, quill, and ink had thoughtfully been provided. Jerric drank some water to clear his head. He did not believe he was a strong letter-writer, and this one was important.

Rilian-


If I’m not back when you read this, it means I got involved with things and I’m still busy. Go ahead back to Kvatch. We said farewell last night, in case you don’t remember. Sorry about your headache. Drink all the water in the pitcher, get to the privy, then take the potion. Curse me all you want, in the end it will be worth it.

I sat up awhile after you passed out while you slept and thought about what you said to me. Here’s what I have to say back.

Rilian, you are no man’s squire. It would honor me to fight by your side again, as an equal. Maybe someday we will get that chance. But right now I can’t take you with me.

I can’t tell you to stay in Kvatch either, but I hope you will. You are a Kvatch Wolf, a warrior. There won’t ever be any more of us that knew Kvatch before she burned. Whether you stay or not, you stand among her heroes. Here is my wish for you.

Go home. Defend our city and keep her proud. Pick out a piece of land with Captain Acting Steward Matius and let him build a manor for you. Find a good woman and start making little Rilians. Otherwise, what are we fighting for? (Also let your heart pick your lady, not just your member. But get a peek at her Ma if you can, just in case the gods are good and one day you wake up old together, then you won’t be surprised.)

I know I’m telling you your life, but I’ve had more ale than I planned and I hope you will forgive me. You can really hold your drink for an Imperial.


Your friend,

Jerric

He looked around the room while the ink dried. Savlian had chosen well for them. Cheerful paintings and homey tapestries covered every wall. The furnishings were spotless and placed for maximum convenience. The proprietor had even moved arming racks into their room while they were meeting with the Elder Council. Jerric thought it might be years before Rilian would sleep again in a chamber this comfortable.

He folded the letter and placed it next to the water pitcher. This is no time to watch an Imperial sleep, he told himself, buckling his sword belt while he did just that. Rilian looked impossibly young. Jerric could still see the scar on his throat.

He resisted the urge to tuck in the blankets. Instead he picked up his cloak and slipped out the door.

Message or no message, it was time to find Baurus.

[Acadian]

This was fabulous! You let J & J tell us what happened with the Elder Fetchers Council. The brothel was a great idea for an afternoon pick me up!

’Any scrap that dropped to the ground was scooped back up by thin hands.’
I am so envious of this sentence! What an efficient and perfect image you crafted here of hard life in the big city! Bravo!

Jerric’s letter was stunningly good and pure Jerric. I love the touches you put in about telling Jesan to settle down with a good woman and the hope that the young wolf would stay in Kvatch. Jerric didn’t sacrifice a bit of his Jerricness here, but he sure did display a caravan load of wisdom.

[SubRosa]

“I know a brothel,” Jerric continued. “I wasn’t offering personally.”
This gave me more then a faint smile.

Any scrap that dropped to the ground was scooped back up by thin hands.
As Acadian already said, this was a wonderful little statement, that says so much.

But get a peek at her Ma if you can, just in case the gods are good and one day you wake up old together, then you won’t be surprised.
This is good advice, that most men just do not seem to grok.

Jerric could still see the scar on his throat.
I had forgotten about that until now. Excellent decision of yours to put that little observation in.

So, now we have gotten the obligatory waste of time with the Elder Council out of the way. Next up Jerric will go meet someone who actually gets things done, and I suspect we will see some progress being made in the Oblivion Crisis once more.

This post has been edited by SubRosa: Jan 22 2012, 04:51 AM

[King Coin]

King Coin: Thank you, KC! I love giving Darnand his irritable mage moments. I’m glad you pointed out that line, I actually thought of you when I wrote that part.

I've actually done things like that line depicted too.

Lol, Jerric and Rilian have a night on the town. Love it! The letter was the best part though. I know other have said this before, but it was just so Jerric! His advice and hopes layed out for Rilian. This is probably what he wishes he could do.

[McBadgere]

That's absolutely brilliant that is...

Oh hells I loved that...*Applauds*...

Of the many Lols...These were my faves...

“Now let’s find some of that Nibenean pale ale and see about getting you laid.”

Rilian still looked furious.

“I know a brothel,” Jerric continued. “I wasn’t offering personally.”

And...

“Up,” Jerric told him. “Bed. Sleep in tomorrow. You’ve earned it.”

Rilian answered with a mumble. Jerric reversed his direction and dragged him out to the privy.

Thems just funny right there, thems is... ...

Love it love it love it...

Nice one!!... ...

*Applauds heartily*...

[mALX]

This chapter was so Jerric, infused with his personality. Loved everything about it - most especially his drunken ramblings in the letter to Rilian with the crossed out places. Awesome Write !!!!

This post has been edited by mALX: Jan 22 2012, 08:01 AM