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

[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

[treydog]

Comments for Chapter 10:

[quote]“I knew it. That s’wit! Oh, I’ll get her. You just wait! Must have taken some fast talking to get her to confess.”

“Not really. I’m not so good at that. I guess the part where I stood there in the dark being a Nord was enough to get her talking.”[/quote]

A distinct possibility- and perhaps one reason why Azzan took him on in the Fighters Guild.

And of course the whole “extra work for the client” passage had me laughing.

[quote]She sat with one of his books in her lap and a clay cup at her elbow. Her smile started to warm him from the inside out.[/quote]

Yes.

The interaction with Varel Morvayn was another highlight, especially when you add the concept that repair hammers are not simply mundane tools, but are powered by enchantments of their own.

And then- yet another quite brilliant section with the removal of the scar tissue. And the meditation on the uncomfortably close relationship between Restoration and Necromancy.

[quote]He felt hurt in a way that he wanted to deny. “I trusted you, but you didn’t trust me,” he explained. The new distance between them was worse than the betrayal, he decided.[/quote]

Here you show your great skill at describing the difficulties of relationships, even among well-meaning people.

[quote]I believe there is a war coming that has nothing to do with daedra. Half of the Council of Mages resigned when Traven became Arch-Mage. Many others left with them. They did not just go join the Bakers Guild.”[/quote]

Which explanation makes me feel some better about Darnand’s studies.

[quote]The pretty Redguard woman, he decided. I’m unlikely to kill her.[/quote]

With those lines and the weighing of options just before it, you show wonderfully how far Jerric still has to go.

[quote]He bit his tongue to keep from asking what she thought he assumed the valuable thing was. He didn’t have a clue, and his curiosity needled him.[/quote]

By the Nine! Arvena’s teaching DID help!

And I also like the way you both point out- and then resolve- the inconsistency of Maelona and Gogan’s story.

Oh poor Darnand. Volunteered as bait for a reverse honey trap!

[quote]“Twenty seconds is plenty. Any longer sounds too much like a fair fight. I’m not in the honor business, just killing.”[/quote]

Spoken like someone who has been inside an Oblivion Gate.

The discussion of the sigil stones is chilling- and also makes a lot of sense.

[quote]Her spirit always filled her the way light fills a room, spilling over into the darkness outside.[/quote]

Wow. That just… wow.

And then- you feed us. Woo Hoo!

The banter at the Fighters Guild rings wonderfully true.

And then poor Norbert’s idea of keeping things “confidential.” Which goes a long way toward explaining what Jerric will discover.

[quote]His palm found Redeemer’s hilt in the gesture that now served to ground him. Knight Brother of the Blades, he told himself. Go train, fool.[/quote]

Excellent bit of internal struggle there.

[quote]“I know how an enchanted weapon works. If it needs recharging before we’re through, tough. When you see a dremora, your hand will reach for the blade you’ve trained with. You can be killed in the time it takes to think it through. Are you done moaning? Then let’s get some practice.”[/quote]

Wonderful advice. It HAS to be all reflex and muscle memory.

The memory of Jerric’s first love again tells us so much about him- and why we love him in turn.

[quote]“What did you call Rhano’s father?” asked Darnand.

Jerric and Rhano shared a look. “Sir.”[/quote]

That brought a smile.

[quote]A blood-drenched Nord with a sword in his hand gets attention even at midnight in a dive bar, Jerric discovered.[/quote]

I can see how that might happen.

[quote]They look at me and think, ‘There goes a man on his way to a killing. Maybe he’ll stop and do some raping first.’ So I start off with a smile.”[/quote]

So perfect a statement of his own doubts and his personality.

[quote]Fjirsten would love this, he thought. Yellow is her favorite color.

He had left himself completely unguarded. The black pit he carried inside simply reached up and swallowed him. Grief took his sight.[/quote]

And yes. It sneaks up on you just like that.

[quote]“I think I’ve shown you my views on that subject. Now whenever I see a peony in bloom, I’ll think of you.” I wonder if I’ll see spring, he suddenly thought.[/quote]

The bittersweet of that reminds me powerfully of seeing the daffodils pushing up through the snow.

I would have to quote the entire posts regarding the glass house and the marsh to highlight the “good parts,” because they are good in their entirety. Your descriptive powers are on full display.

[quote]“What were you about to do?”

“Take a bath. Wash the blood out of my hair. Lie awake and listen to dead women screaming.”[/quote]

And that says more than all the "debriefing" in the world would manage.

[quote]There is one more lesson I would have you teach me before you leave for Chorrol, Magister. How does a healer care for herself?”

Abiene’s mind leaped straight to Jerric. Find someone who loves you and don’t let them go, she thought.[/quote]

And the conversation with Thaurron was simply delightful- filled with kindness, and melancholy, and truths that we prefer not to examine too closely.

[quote]The man I wanted might finally turn toward me, she thought. But I’ve reached for the one who’s going to walk away.[/quote]

Ah. So much is conveyed in that seemingly simple statement.

[quote]“Uh, no. The gods will find me if they want something.”[/quote]

They have a way of doing that- yes.

[quote]The smile left her face. “People are always measuring me, checking to see if I’m doing anything wrong. Not everyone, but sometimes it’s too much. When you look at me, I know you just see who I am. I don’t have to guard myself with you, Jerric.”[/quote]

Sounds like a good basis for love.

[quote]He knew what she was asking. “I can’t hope for us and still do what I need to. I guess a better man could. I’d just keep wanting to take you away somewhere and keep you safe.” He brushed his thumb under her eye, gathering her tears. “There’s a lot for you to live for, Abiene. It’s going to get darker, but there’s still a way through it.”[/quote]

And again- the shadow that hangs over Jerric even when he is walking in the light of the Gold Coast.

[Grits]

Acadian: Thank you so much, Acadian! Hearing that the letter was pure Jerric is just music to my ears. That’s the very best I could hope for!

SubRosa: That “I wasn’t offering personally” line comes from Deadwood, and it’s pretty much the only thing said in that show that I can put in this forum. It seemed to suit Jerric perfectly. Glad it gave a chuckle. Thank you, SubRosa!

King Coin: You’re right, Jerric’s wish for Rilian is exactly what he would do himself if he could. He even has a letter from a good woman saying that she’s his. Thank you for pointing that out! It really means a lot.

McBadgere: Thank you, McB! It’s fun to put some giggles in there with the anxious moments.

mALX: Thank you, mALX! Jerric has never seemed so real to me as when he wrote that letter, crossed out parts and all.

treydog: Thank you so much for your comments! I am awed, humbled, and inspired. I’m sure you can tell the relationships are the most important part for me. Many of the quotes you highlighted were the reasons for their whole section, so you can imagine I did quite a lot of nodding and smiling while I read your comments. I truly appreciate the time you spend with this story!

Where we are: The Imperial City. Darnand and Lildereth are off pursuing their own interests. Jerric and Rilian spoke before the Elder Council, who named Savlian Matius Acting Steward of Kvatch until a new count can be chosen. Jerric and Rilian shared an evening of relaxation. We find Jerric seeking out Baurus.




Chapter 14: The Imperial City, Part Three


Jerric stepped out of the King and Queen Tavern into a mild, foggy night. Moisture makes the alleys more fragrant, he noted. Then he added his own layer to the mix, standing far enough away from the wall to avoid splashback. A few turns down the sparsely populated streets served to clear his head. If he was lucky enough to find Baurus tonight, he hoped to make a decent impression.

The ground floor of Luther Broad’s Boarding House contained a public room with dining tables and a long bar. A staircase rose along the wall behind it, and Jerric guessed there would be access to the cellar on the far side. A closed door near the foot of the stairs was the room’s only other exit.

Only a few folk occupied tables at this hour, and each of them seemed absorbed by whatever circumstance had them drinking alone at a low-rent tavern in this largely residential district. Jerric’s attention went to the man behind the bar.

An experienced barman would immediately mark Jerric as a brawler and glance either at his own hired muscle or toward whatever other patron he was already watching for signs of trouble. The man behind the bar at Luther Broad’s proved no exception. Jerric watched the publican size him up, then look briefly into the far corner. Jerric followed his glance as he walked toward the bar.

A gray-haired man sat reading at the small corner table. His stature suggested Imperial or Breton heritage. Jerric didn’t see a weapon. He decided not to use magic if events turned violent. Neither race would have native resistance to a beating. The man didn’t seem to notice Jerric.

The Redguard seated at the bar noticed him. He sat with his shoulders slumped, but tension radiated through his frame. Jerric looked for a katana, but this man carried a shorter, straight blade. It didn’t matter. His gut knew Baurus.

“Sit down,” Baurus said quietly before Jerric could speak. “Don’t say anything. I’m being watched.”

Jerric took a seat to Baurus’ right, leaving an empty stool between them. The barman swiped the counter with his rag and pushed a bowl of ironwood nuts at Jerric. “What’ll it be?”

For a moment Jerric thought he shouldn’t answer. Then he realized that he shouldn’t say anything to Baurus. Perhaps he ought to have spent more time pacing the streets before plunging back into his role as agent for the Blades.

“Mead,” Jerric said. He placed a five-Septim coin on the bar. “Surprise me.”

“Surprise you with mead?” said the barman, raising an eyebrow. “That’s a tall order. I’ve got a barrel in the back. Maybe it’ll do.” He stepped through the door without further comment.

“Listen,” Baurus said. “I’m going to get up in a minute and walk out of here. That guy in the corner will follow me. You follow him.”

“Got it,” said Jerric.

“Good,” Baurus said into his tankard. “I want to see what he’ll do.”

Baurus walked around and passed through the cellar door. The gray-haired man quickly rose to follow him. After a moment, Jerric followed the man.

The stairway led to a wide, well-lit landing before it turned to the left into shadow. Jerric closed the door silently behind him. He stepped down. Reddish light flared from around the corner, accompanied by the ripping sound of a daedric summoning. Jerric took the remaining stairs in a leap.

“For Lord Dago-argh!”

Jerric spun around the corner to find an armored man on his knees, one arm raised behind him at an uncomfortable looking angle. Baurus gripped the man’s wrist in his left hand. His sword was at the man’s throat. Sick fury surged up Jerric’s throat when he recognized the red robes and daedric armor.

“Paradise awaits me,” the man hissed, eyes showing white. Then he erupted into flames.

Jerric and Baurus fell back, coughing. “He burned from the inside out!” Jerric exclaimed. “How did he do that?”

“A scroll, maybe,” said Baurus. He prodded the remains with his toe as the fire died out. “You search the body. I’ll check upstairs in case any of his friends are nearby.” Baurus disappeared around the corner.

Jerric knelt, struggling with emotion. It was too late to kill this man again, no matter how much he wanted to. He cooled the body with frost before he tried to touch it. His squeamish search yielded three coins, a buckle, and a key.

“I’ll see if Luther knows where that key is from,” said Baurus, making Jerric jump. He hadn’t heard him return.

Jerric rose and stood slack-jawed for a moment. He didn’t know which question to ask first.

“Luther Broad,” Baurus explained patiently. “The man upstairs. Like it says on the sign. He’s a friend. Not one to trust completely, though, so guard your tongue.”

The sign doesn’t make my innkeepers a king and a queen, Jerric thought, but he decided not to argue. He took a closer look at the sticky key. “Say, that looks like…” He fished the key out of his own pocket and held the two in his palm. The bows of both keys were shaped like a crown. “This fatherless toad was staying across the street, I’d wager. At the King and Queen Tavern.”

Baurus grinned. “Good work. I am glad to see you, by the way. You just caught me at a bad time.”

“Yeah,” said Jerric, glancing down at the blackened bones. And they think I’m trouble.

“This one was alone,” Baurus said. “Let’s search his room. You go over first. I’ll follow.”

On the upper level of the King and Queen Tavern, Baurus tried the key until they found the cultist’s room. “Two doors down from me and Rilian,” Jerric mused. “Do you think he knew who I am?”

“Could be.” Baurus locked the door behind them. “Two fellows in Kvatch Guard livery visiting the Elder Council, it’s not hard to peg you as the Hero of Kvatch. Do you have anything with you that might tie you to Martin?”

Jerric blinked at him. “Uh, no. Oh wait. My Blades helmet.”

Baurus passed a hand across his eyes.

“No,” Jerric continued. “It’s with my gear at Equestria.”

“Thank Talos for that,” said Baurus. “I can’t think of any place safer. Look in the desk. Let’s see if we can at least identify this fetcher.”

Baurus moved to the cupboard. Jerric reached for the book sitting out on the desk. “Commentaries on the Mysterium Xarxes, Book One,” he read out loud.

That got Baurus’ attention. “Here’s our evidence,” he said. “We know the assassins who killed the Emperor were part of a daedric cult known as the Mythic Dawn. They worship the Daedra Lord Mehrunes Dagon. I’ve been tracking their agents here in the city. I guess they noticed.”

“Yeah, I recognized the conjured armor. These same mother humpers got the Amulet.”

“I heard.”

“Where’s their headquarters? They should have a shrine or something.”

Baurus gave him a patient look. “That’s what I’d like to know, Jerric. We are all anxious to pay them a visit.” He began to search the desk. “This is a secretive group, very difficult to track. I haven’t been able to collect any real evidence, until now. Those that I have tried to question all ended like… Astav Wirich.” He held up a letter.

“Uh,” said Jerric.

“We believe the Mythic Dawn think they have secured their victory by killing Martin at Kvatch and stealing the Amulet of Kings from Weynon Priory. Their next move is unclear. They seem to be focused on recruiting new members, in a very cautious manner. In my opinion it is only a matter of time before someone visits Kvatch to gloat and learns of Martin’s survival. When they connect you to Martin, they will use you to get to him. Anyone close to you will be at risk. But for now there is no reason to associate you with the Blades, even if you are recognized as the Hero of Kvatch.”

“And Brother Piner, and the others at the Priory? Even if they don’t figure out about me, they know the Amulet was there.”

“Their lives are at risk as well. I can see that you would protect them. You do not have that luxury. You must view them as fellow soldiers in this war. Even in monks’ robes that is what they are.”

“So when folk start attacking me, that will mean they figured it out. And they might go after my friends.”

“That is my belief. I suggest you put aside your Kvatch Wolf shield and surcoat. Without them you could be any blond Nord, with or without a scar on your brow, bearded or clean-shaven.”

Jerric had new respect for his Knight-Brother’s intelligence gathering. “Thanks, Baurus.” He shook his head regretfully. “I put a fire shield enchantment on my Blades helmet. I’d hate to go into the Deadlands without it.”

Baurus rubbed his hands over his face while his teeth made a small sound grinding together. “Are you telling me you have been wearing…” His hands made a twisting motion.

“Yeah,” Jerric said, abashed. “But most folk who have seen me in it are dead. Well, all but a few, and I trust them.”

Baurus fixed a glare on him. “You do not get to make that judgment. The Emperor could only have been betrayed by someone very close to him. It’s possible the person didn’t even know what they had done. Our man is safe in Cloud Ruler Temple, from everyone but us.” He bit the last word off with a grimace.

Jerric thought for a moment. “So maybe they already found me, and they’re hoping I’ll lead them to Martin?”

Baurus nodded. “The fortress is protected from anyone you might inadvertently lead there, though the enemy does not know that. The danger is that you might bring someone inside. Someone, as you said, that you trust.”

Jerric felt like a child unable to follow the adults’ conversation. “I guess I can’t trust anyone.”

Baurus nodded again. “Now you’re learning.”

Jerric opened the book and glanced over the first few lines. Greetings, novitiate, and know first a reassurance: Mankar Camoran was once like you, asleep, unwise, protonymic. We mortals leave the dreaming-sleeve of birth the same, unmantled save for the symbiosis with our mothers, thus to practice and thus to rapprochement…

He snapped the book closed with a groan. “Baurus, maybe you should take a look at this.”

Baurus shook his head after a moment’s reading. “There’s a scholar at the Arcane University. Tar-Meena’s her name. Supposed to be an expert on daedric cults. Why don’t you take this book to her, see what she makes of it.”

Jerric took the book back. “All right, I’ll head over in the morning.”

“I’ll keep running down my leads on the Mythic Dawn network. After you meet with Tar-Meena, come find me at Luther Broad’s. This might just be the break we need.”

“Baurus. I have a friend who might like to see this book.”

“The Breton or the Bosmer?”

Jerric blinked again. “Darnand. I’ve known him since before all this.”

Baurus gave him a direct look. “He cannot know about our friends in the north. And be aware that everything you tell him puts him in danger.”

Jerric felt sick again. “All right.”

Baurus gripped his shoulder. “May Talos guide you.” He turned back to the desk.

This post has been edited by Grits: Feb 4 2012, 10:35 PM

[ghastley]

An interesting variation, to have a key on the body, and the book in his room. It makes much more sense than his carrying the bulky thing around with him.

But then Tar-Meena never has to go fetch volume two off a shelf, either. Phintias has volume three in his pocket, etc. Those are little things they could have done in the game, but didn't. Glad you did.

Does your Baurus really distrust everyone, or is it just that he considers everyone fallible?

[King Coin]

I enjoyed Jerric’s insight to the bar. If anyone knows a bar, it’s Jerric.

For a second I thought the bartender was being sarcastic to Jerric about the mead.

Luther’s going to like the pile of ashy bones in his basement.

Damn, Jerric’s getting noticed by the cultists. I kind of figured that it would come to that, but I was enjoying his relative anonymity. I’m most worried about Abiene.

[Acadian]

I agree that it was fun to see Jerric’s mastery of all things bars at work as he described Luther’s pub.

I love how you are working the spy stuff in here!

“Sit down,” Baurus said quietly before Jerric could speak. “Don’t say anything. I’m being watched.”
Jerric took a seat to Baurus’ right, leaving an empty stool between them. The barman swiped the counter with his rag and pushed a bowl of ironwood nuts at Jerric. “What’ll it be?”
For a moment Jerric thought he shouldn’t answer. Then he realized that he shouldn’t say anything to Baurus. Perhaps he ought to have spent more time pacing the streets before plunging back into his role as agent for the Blades.
The way this passage brings out the bolded part is wonderful – how very, very Jerric!

“No,” Jerric continued. “It’s with my gear at Equestria.”
“Thank Talos for that,” said Baurus. “I can’t think of any place safer.
Awww.

’Jerric felt like a child unable to follow the adults’ conversation. “I guess I can’t trust anyone.”
Your masterful portrayal of Baurus to this point so perfectly brought Jerric to this inevitable conclusion.

“Baurus. I have a friend who might like to see this book.”
“The Breton or the Bosmer?”
Jerric blinked again. “Darnand. I’ve known him since before all this.”
I loved this for a couple reasons. First, it showed the depth of Baurus' intelligence gathering – even concerning Jerric. Secondly, it showed how much Jerric relies on the judgment of his brainy Bretonic buddy.

Eeep! I agree with KC's concern about Abiene's safety. If the MD goes after Lildereth on the other hand, it will simply shorten their existence of course.

Nit? ’Only a few folk occupied tables at this hour, and each of them seemed absorbed by whatever circumstance had them drinking alone at a low-rent tavern in {this?} largely residential district.’

This post has been edited by Acadian: Jan 27 2012, 01:46 AM