Old Habits Die Hard Part Six, some old habits never die Options

[Grits]

"He kept the daedra from finishing off Roliand."

Roliand is alive?! That’s a piece of good news. I sure hope he stays that way. Maybe he won’t miss the crushed parts of his brain too much? I like the explanation of healing and its limitations. Steffan’s despair over his sword hand was very real, even with his far more serious injuries. It seemed he had a little adrenaline crash of his own after the healing, though just a regular one. He held together until there was nothing left for him to do.

A glimmer in the snow brought my head up. I staggered to my feet, Sigil stone still clutched to my chest. Four ghostly figures formed from the whirling flakes in the corner of my vision. Though I squinted at them, my gaze could not pin them. Sighing, I gave up trying to identify them.

I love this part! Even as a glimmer through the snow these four capture the imagination. They showed up at the perfect time.

A relief to see the four-legged friends whole, and it seems that Martin has something new to contemplate. Now I’m wondering where Baurus and Jauffre might be. The snow and smoldering atronach parts give this the feeling of a campfire scene only on a battlefield.

The aftermath for Julian and Steffan promises to be interesting. Julian already knows what she needs to know from her own experience, but he could certainly pull away like he tried to do when she was healing him. I love the attention you’re giving these encounters as different parties appear through the snow!

[McBadgere]

Yep, I second that last paragraph!!... ...

Definately loving the way people and animals are appearing from the snow...

Loved the healing...Definately love it when the damaged parts are visualised...I think Acadian did that too a couple of times...Loved it!!...

I know that Baurus and Jauffre can get offed in the game if you don't watch it when you jump into the gate...Looking forward to seeing how they end up, either way...

Brilliant stuff...

Nice one!!...

*Applauds heartily*...

[Captain Hammer]

Julian's out! The Battle of Bruma is over! Martin has the Great Sigil Stone!

And the cost of war is never measured just in lives lost or saved. Men suffer wounds, and must live on, forever changed by what they do, and what is done to them.

I'm loving Captain Steffan. I always managed to keep Baurus alive, mostly through tactical planning, and the belief that the one guard to survive Uriel's assassination should not be a pushover in any combat situation. But I may have to play through differently once, just to see how Captain Steffan acts as Jauffre's second when I'm completing the Main Quest.

From somebody who has no excuse for not posting more, thank you for forcing me to get off my rump and get to work. As for you, well, it is what it is, and I can only hope that you aren't turning into a Meth-cooking Crime Lord in the greater Santa Fe-Albuquerque New Mexico area, but if you do, being portrayed by Bryan Cranston isn't a bad way to be seen. We're pulling for you.

Just don't shave your head and grow a goatee. For some reason, I don't think it'll work as well for you as it does for Malcolm's dad.

[Acadian]

Oh this was beautifully done with an epic feel that matched the previous battle episodes. And with great skill as you and Julian tugged at our hearts. Mixed news on Roliand and Steffan. Hopefully they will both recover and I know Julian’s feelings for Steffan are not bound to his right hand (or lack thereof). I could feel Julian’s pain as she explored Steffan’s injuries.

As already mentioned, it was great to (almost) see Julian’s ancient Blade brothers again. And a wonderful entrance by Blanco and Martin.

@Cardboard Box: There was indeed a grizzly (bear) that participated in the battle and valiantly fell quite close to the ruined siege engine. I therefore believe Rider’s sentence that refers to both is perfect as is.

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: The road ahead of Steffan is going to be a rough one for him, and no one understands it better than Julian. We will see that she will no longer deny her feelings for him once she realizes that everyone else can see it too. I knew you would love seeing/not seeing the Fab Four. I felt it was an appropriate farewell to them after the drama of the battlefield. And yes, Julian was as happy to see Martin, Blanco and Sai as you were.

@Boxee: Thanks for reading! I'm glad you're still enjoying the story. And thanks for the nit-picking mode, it was appreciated.

@Grits: Wonder about Baurus and Jauffre no more, they appear in this next section. As for Roliand, we'll have to see. I'm not sure yet if he will recover from what is obviously a very grievous head injury. I'm glad to hear that you are looking forward to more of Julian and Steffan's relationship as their dynamics change in the very near future. And yes, it was great to see the Fab Four again. Destri has created monsters with those four Blades (especially Valdemar and his barroom manners).

@McB: I know that Baurus and Jauffre are no longer essential once the Battle of Bruma engages. I remember once I managed to keep them alive before I went into the Gate. Jumped back out in time to see the collapsing siege engine fall on Baurus, who was still fighting. He fought no more. I felt devastated! Thanks for your words of encouragement, as always.

@BamBam: Great to see you again! I'm delighted that you are still enjoying this story. You're right, I wanted to show the impact of war on those who have been through it, not just in terms of lives lost but also in terms of injuries, memories, etc. In the game Captain Steffan is a decent fighter; however I'm with you, Baurus survived Assassination Night, he ought to live long enough to see the Avatar of Akatosh. In any case, as Savlian Matius fills a special role in Acadian's Buffy stories, so does Captain Steffan in mine. I'm glad you're liking him. As for my own ills, well - - Having been to the Alberquerque/Santa Fe area four times on vacation, I wouldn't mind living there. However not as the Meth-cooking Crime Lord with no head thatch and a goatee. Not my style, thankyouverymuch.

@Acadian: Thank you for your endorsement of my portrayal of the aftermath. For me that is more important than the battle itself, as epic as that may have been. Such heroic acts do not come without cost, and I think true leadership is revealed at this point, when everyone is coming off the adrenaline high, and the real price starts to sink in.

The story so far: Julian and Ferrum have found Captain Steffan and Roliand, and Martin Septim has found them. Now we begin to grapple with the next step.

******************************
Chapter 31.3 Duties and Obligations

Baurus appeared from the thickening snow with Jauffre and Camillus panting hard behind. All three were covered in blood and gore, all three moved slowly with exhaustion, yet they seemed intact.

“I knew it!” Camillus’s normal roar muted to a mere wisp, he clapped me heartily on the shoulder. “When that Great Gate closed, I thought to myself, That Julian’s come through like she always does!” He glanced from me to Martin. “Did she bring you that stone, Sire?”

Martin hefted his cloaked burden. “Yes, she did, indeed.”

“Then what’s keeping you from marching down to the Imperial City and lighting those Dragonfires?” Camillus’s intelligent gaze moved from Martin to me.

Does he know about the Amulet of Kings? I wondered briefly. I caught Martin’s glance at me, then he met Camillus’s eyes squarely.

“The Amulet of Kings is missing,” he said quietly. “The founder of the Mythic Dawn, Mankar Camoran, holds it.”

“By Shor’s cast iron globes!” Camillus exploded. His eyes narrowed at me. “You were the one that wiped out their enclave at Lake Arrius, Julian? You weren’t able to stop it?”

I shook my head. “No, sir, I couldn’t.”

“It isn’t Julian’s fault they knew she was coming,” Martin stepped to my side. “Mankar stepped through just as she arrived.” He gripped my shoulder. “Now that I have this stone, she will finish what she set out to do. Recover that Amulet.”

“That’s what you’ve been doing all this time?” Camillus turned to me. “Closing Oblivion Gates? Drumming up support for Countess Carvain?” When I nodded, he ran a hand over his close-cropped scalp. I noticed that it shook. Fatigue? “Ach, if anyone can get that trinket back, it’d be Julian!”

“We have faith in our Blade sister,” Jauffre said quietly. Camillus grinned at his implacable tone. “She has not let us down before now, and I doubt that she will.”

“Stop talking about me as if I’m not here,” I complained softly, then turned to Martin. “Sire, we need to pull our wounded and dead off this field. If I have your permission, I’ll stay and help.”

“You are no longer pilus,” Camillus exclaimed. “Clearing the field is no longer your responsibility.”

“General,” I met his gaze, “I may not be Legion, but most of these soldiers are here because I asked for them. I’ve never abandoned my comrades, and I’m not about to start now.” Now I met Jauffre’s eyes. “How many of us Blades are left?”

He flinched. “I don’t have a final count yet,” he said finally. “But Fortis and Pelagius are gone, as is Jena. I’m searching for the others. Caroline is grievously injured and is now in Cirroc’s care. I’ve accounted for Arcturus, and now Ferrum, Roliand and Captain Steffan.”

I looked up at the sky. “That snow is going to hang around a while longer,” I mused. “It’s going to be hard to see much in these conditions.” I glanced at Ferrum. “If we burn those atronaches wherever we find our wounded and dead, it might help the others.”

“I don’t doubt you’ll want to heal wherever you can, either, Julian,” Jauffre nodded at me. “Sire?”

Martin looked down at the cloaked stone in his hand. “Yes, all of us still standing should look to the fallen as quickly as possible. No one wants to leave our friends and comrades out with the daedra.” He turned toward Blanco and reached for the horse’s saddle, then hesitated.

Blanco swung his head at Martin, then pricked his ears at me, but remained rooted to the ground. After a moment, Martin took his rein and held it out to me. “Thank you for the loan of your Witchhorse,” he said finally.

For a long breath I regarded the Septim. He stood at ease in the enameled cuirass, but I could see exhaustion in his eyes.

Part of me wanted to leave this gory carnage behind and find a private spot somewhere to mourn those friends I had lost. Part of me longed to remain with Captain Steffan and Roliand, with Inian and Merandil on this cold, dark field. And the old pilus that never left me kept whispering - it’s not over yet, Julian. You still have work to do, these men and women to look after.

Finally I shook my head. “No, Sire,” I finally refused the rein. “I’ll stay with my comrades and see them safely removed from this field. You are now the Emperor, it is only fitting that Blanco should carry you back to Bruma tonight.”

“I will not leave this field either until the last of our brave soldiers have been removed to safety,” Martin shook his head. “They made the ultimate sacrifice because I asked them to. It’s only right that I should see them returned to their comrades.” He dropped the rein. “Blanco can decide what he wants to do.”

Again I saw the discomfort in his face, the same discomfort I remembered so well from holding so many sigil stones. “There is one thing Blanco can do for you, Sire,” I said. “Stuff that stone in his saddlebag. He’ll not let any one but you or me near it.”

“It’s - “ Martin’s gaze unfocused slightly, “- unpleasant. Certainly not something I’d want to inflict on Blanco, not after what he did for me here.”

Blanco pawed at the ground, then stepped to Martin’s side and nudged the man’s elbow with an air of impatience. He sidled in such a way to present the pouch slung at the cantle. Martin chuckled voicelessly.

“I won’t argue with you, Witchhorse,” he said, swinging the flap open and slipping the subtly hissing stone within the depths of the saddlebag. He secured the buckles and patted Blanco on his arched neck. “Thank you once again, Blanco.” Martin sent that hazel gaze at me once more. “And thank you, Julian.” He turned and walked away, Baurus shadowing him.

Jauffre knelt beside Roliand and Steffan. As I watched him ruffle Sai’s fur, Blanco stepped to me and rubbed his head along my right arm. I ran my hand over his nose, then his neck and shoulders. He felt warm, slightly damp, but none the worse for wear. A moment’s inspection convinced me the blood on his legs and belly were from his enemies, not him. “Whatever you were doing out there, Blanco,” I whispered into one pricked ear, “good job. Thank you.”

He snorted softly, then turned and stepped into Martin’s footsteps. Somehow I knew Blanco would stay close to the Emperor until it was time to return to Bruma. In his own way he would keep danger from the last Septim as effectively as Baurus had done.

Jauffre still remained silent beside the two Blades. I watched as he jammed the tip of his sheathed dai-katana into the mud and leaned on it. Simultaneously Ferrum and I stepped forward and reached down to him as he struggled stiffly to his feet. He looked up at us and smiled wearily. “I am not so old, yet,” he croaked as he straightened up. “But thanks for the offer.”

“We’ve all needed a little help from time to time, sir,” I said.

“True enough, Julian,” he nodded and met my gaze. “We will spend the night in Bruma,” he continued. “Best to wait until daylight to bring our wounded and dead home to Cloud Ruler Temple. And I want Emperor Martin to rest before he starts preparing for that damned ritual. I doubt I’ll be able to keep him from beginning once we return.”

“I will have the Sixth remain here, as well,” Camillus reminded us of his presence. “We will rest in our camp until Martin Septim is ready to travel to the Imperial City. It is only fitting that Julian’s old unit escort him to his inheritance.” He turned and faded away into the snowflakes.

“Grandmaster,” I turned back to Jauffre. “Stay here with Ferrum by the fire. It’ll keep you warm. I’ll walk the field and look for the others.”

[SubRosa]

That Julian’s come through like she always does!
Just like she did in an alternate universe, much to the relief of the Bravil's Fighters Guild.

“By Shor’s cast iron globes!”
I think that trumps Shor's Bones any day!

“I will not leave this field either until the last of our brave soldiers have been removed to safety,”
Well said! Here is yet another example of how Martin has grown into the role of Emperor. Not to mention how much of the old pilus still remains within Julian...

[Acadian]

Let me heartily echo my full agreement with SubRosa’s comments. Well done.

At the risk of sounding macabre, let me also say that I am glad you are lingering on this hallowed Plain of Caribou. Much has occurred here, and it is good that you are not rushing to move on. There will be time for that, but both Julian and Martin said it well that this is the time to tend their wounded. It was good to learn that Camillus, Baurus and Jauffre have survived, but disheartening to learn that Fortis, Pelagius and Jena did not. And distressing that Caroline is severely injured.

I have no doubt that the Great Sigil Stone will be safe in the care of Julian's Witchhorse until it is needed.

This post has been edited by Acadian: Aug 23 2012, 12:54 AM

[Grits]

I love Camillus’ reaction when he finds the group. As Julian was searching the field, others were looking for her. It was great to see Baurus at Martin’s back again.

As has been said, I’m glad that you’re spending time with the characters in the battle’s aftermath. Martin’s words and demeanor were especially revealing, as were Julian’s thoughts as he attempted to hand over Blanco’s reins. So much came together out there in the snow.

[McBadgere]

...I have to admit, I did chortle a little at...

Baurus appeared from the thickening snow with Jauffre and Camillus panting hard behind.

Having said that about the last part, I thought to meself, "Well, that sorts that then!"... ...

A brilliant chapter...As ever...

Love Blanco, he's majorly coolness!!... ...

Brilliant stuff...

Nice one!!...

*Applauds heartily*...

[mALX]

This line got a chuckle from me:

Blanco pawed at the ground, then stepped to Martin’s side and nudged the man’s elbow with an air of impatience. He sidled in such a way to present the pouch slung at the cantle. Martin chuckled voicelessly.

At first I thought the pouch held water or wine, something to revive Martin.

I too liked the dwelling on the aftermath of the battle. Great Write!

[haute ecole rider]

@SubRosa: Yes, I knew you would recognize Camillus's feeling of relief! And as his creative description of a Nord divine's - uhm - privates as well. In the aftermath, I suspect Martin is taking his cue from Julian. Smart man, learning from those with more experience in these matter than he has.

@Acadian: Thank you, dear friend, for your endorsement to linger on the field and take in the aftermath. Like I said, the way leaders handle this part of any battle speaks volumes of their quality of character. Not only do we see Julian's quality, but Martin's as well. And the loss begins to sink in when we know the faces of those who have gone. Of course Blanco will keep that horrible stone safe until it is needed!

@Grits: Thank you for catching the significance of Martin trying to return Blanco, and Julian reminding him of his new status as Emperor. Ultimately they both displayed wisdom in letting this Witchhorse decide what he will do now.

@McBadgere: As always, your fulsome praise makes me feel like Queen Elizabeth I. It certainly brought cheer on a dreary day! I was trying to point out that Jauffre and Camillus are no longer young men, though they refuse to admit it. This might be the time they face their age. But they are stubborn!

@mALX: I rather suspect Blanco was only angling for a good scratch on that sweet spot near his withers. But Julian chooses to interpret it differently, and as this is her story, I won't argue with this pilus. Glad you are still reading this!

The story so far: With the appearance of Jauffre and Baurus, we begin to realize the enormity of the cost of the battle. Camillus finds out the real reason Martin Septim needed the Great Sigil stone. Now we catch up with a few of the friends Julian has made on her Grand Tour of Cyrodiil.

*********************
Chapter 31.4 Taking Stock

I found Apsice and six of his contingent gathering their dead and wounded. He led me to where they had laid out Cordelia’s body. “She fought bravely, Julian,” he spoke quietly so that only I heard him. “For all that she lacked training, she more than made up for it in courage. And she wouldn’t stay behind when you made that run for the Gate. She insisted that we keep the daedra from your back.” He sighed and looked toward the other guards tending to their wounded. “Then your white horse ran between us and your escort, and we found ourselves fighting the dremora that were chasing him.”

I shook Apsice’s shoulder. “I’m glad Cordelia stepped up. I’m certain she made a difference. It’s a major loss that she didn’t survive. But you’re the decanus now. See to your guards, and get them back home.”

I couldn’t help counting the bodies as we returned to the other survivors. Dismay warred with relief at the numbers of dead versus the wounded. They were feeling the cold, too exhausted and hurt to shiver. “Apsice, use your flare spell on a flame atronach body. They burn hot.”

“Good thinking,” he murmured, then turned to two of the guards standing nearby. As they set off to locate a nearby corpse, I looked again at the wounded.

“Is this all of you?” I asked. Apsice shook his head.

“There’s still about four of us still missing,” he said. “So far I have sixteen of us still living, the rest are dead.”

“I’ll keep an eye out for the others, then,” I struggled to hide the sinking of my heart. So many lost. Apsice isn’t saying, but I’m certain a good portion of their loss is due to lack of leadership. If only we had had more time. If only -!

We watched as the two guards set fire to the dead atronach. Then Apsice turned to me. “Julian, don’t feel bad about our losses. Yes, it’s hard. But we have no regrets. Those of us left alive are proud to have fought for the Emperor.”

I regarded the others, and saw similar sentiments in their weary and pained faces. “You did Leyawiin proud tonight, all of you,” I pitched my voice to reach every one of them. “You deserve the gratitude of your Count and more besides. As Knight of Leyawiin, I will vouch for your courage and sacrifice to the Count and see to it that you get your just rewards.”

“Now you’re sounding like th’ Count,” one of the guards grumbled in mock dismay. Half-hearted chuckles danced around the small group.

“We all know what the Count is like,” I answered. “And I know what you are really like.”

“Aye, you’ll look out for us like you did yesterday,” one of the others responded. “Though we didn’t know it at the time. But we’re glad you put us to work! Our blades were sharp tonight, weren’t they, lads?” As the murmur of assent moved through the exhausted and the wounded, I turned to Apsice.

“It’s a promise, Apsice,” I said. “When things are settled, I’ll come down to Leyawiin and check up on all of you.” And do something about Draconis’s leadership.

Near the ruins of the first Gate, I came across a cluster of Bravilian wounded. Lerus moved among them, speaking in low tones to each guard. It seemed to me that after exchanging words with her, each Bravilian sat up a little straighter, seemed to be in a little less pain. Like mine, their breaths steamed in the cold air, mingling with the drifting snow.

Lerus straightened up slowly at my approach and met me at the edge of the group. “Hail, daedra-slayer!” Her greeting felt forced.

I glanced over her wounded before meeting her gaze. “Do you need anything, Captain?”

Lerus shook her head. “I’ve a few still whole, they went up to the town to fetch bandages and potions from our stock.” She tipped her head toward the row of corpses a few paces away. “Petrine will retrieve all of our dead, and Nonius is taking wounded up to the Chapel for healing. Cirroc has already examined our survivors and stabilized the worst of them.”

“How many -?” I could not finish the question. Lerus’s icy gaze turned colder than the Jerall night.

“After you went into that Gate, Julian,” her tone remained steady, “things became rather chaotic out here.” She waved her arm to encompass the entire Plain. “We were scattered across the field. I’m still gathering my guards together. So far I have three unharmed, six wounded and four dead.”

Out of twenty-four. “You’re still missing eleven?”

Lerus nodded grimly. “I may not find them all. Those blue-skinned fetchers have some nasty spells. There weren’t much left after some of them hit.”

“And nasty weapons,” I agreed, thinking back to the contingent that had defended the Great Gate from my approach. My gaze searched among the Bravilian surcoats for a familiar face. “Frederick?”

“He’s dead,” Lerus led me over to the still forms. “Took down several dremora before a daedroth got him.”

“I don’t doubt he fought well,” I knelt beside the cold body of my Bravilian friend. The irregular angles of his limbs and the caved-in appearance of his chest betrayed the devastating force of the monster’s tail. “He was a good man.”

“The best,” Lerus’s voice shook very slightly. I sensed the iron self-control she kept over her emotions. The worst part of being an officer - the consequences of one’s decisions can be very costly. Wish Draconis understood that lesson!

“One thing I’ll say for Count Terentius,” I rose to my feet and cast my gaze over the wounded. “He sent only the best, and the best was just what was needed here.” The guards shifted, and I knew they had heard my words, which was my intent. So did Lerus.

“Aye, that he did,” her conviction further braced her battle-weary contingent. “Thank Mara for that.” She turned and met my gaze. “And thank Mara for you, Julian. Only you could have gone in and closed that monster of a Gate.” Her eyes sharpened on me. “Are you all right, Julian?”

I considered my answer carefully. I didn’t want to make light of the price paid here on the Plain, nor did I want to lie to this straight-eyed Imperial officer. “About the same as you, Captain Lerus,” I said finally. Her gaze flickered, then she nodded.

Before I left the Bravilians, I told them about using atronach flesh to stay warm. Two of the stronger guards began searching for faintly glowing daedra in the immediate area. Fortunately they did not have to search far.

Scattered bonfires lit the field when I cast my gaze across the Plain. Figures of men, women and horse-drawn carts moved among them. The entire town of Bruma must be here! Most of the silhouettes were unarmored - civilians. I hope we can get this field cleared of our own before too much longer. It’s damned cold out here. With the thinning of the snowfall, visibility had improved considerably. A few stars glimmered through black rifts in the clouds above.

The Chapel bell struck eight times. Briefly I wondered at how much had occurred in the span of a few hours. Sundown was a little after four bells. We’ve not been out here that long. But it feels like forever.

“Hail, Hero of Bruma!” A voice brought my head around. I peered at the tall figure that approached me. Ongar the World-Weary stopped before me. “All of Bruma’s talkin’ about you,” he braced my shoulder with a strong grip. “We saw you close that Great Gate, just like the stories tell of Kvatch.” His gaze moved around the Plain. “Though I’d say the price paid here was almost as high.”

Silently I nodded. I had no more words left to say, and fatigue weighed my mind as well as my body down. Ongar met my gaze and his fingers squeezed my shoulder.

“You should go up to the Chapel and rest, get warm,” he said softly. “We’ll take care of the wounded and the dead.”

“You’re helping clear the field?” My mind struggled to understand his words.

“Aye!” Ongar nodded firmly. “All of you paid a dreadful price for us. ‘Tis the least we can do, now that the danger is past, to see all of you safe and warm within our walls.”

“That’s a tempting offer, sir,” I shook my head. “But I am responsible for these folk being here. I’ll stay out here until the last of them is away from this place.”

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Sep 7 2012, 08:46 PM

[ghastley]

Nit: The irregular angles of his limbs and the caved-in appearance of his chest belied the devastating force of the monster’s tail. That word's the opposite of what I think you intended. Bespoke?

Interesting choice of Ongar as the spokesman for the Bruma townsfolk. I'd be a bit worried about him looting the dead.

Some nice character-confirming with the leaders of the allies. And a mention in dispatches for Cordelia actually making a good tactical decision for once.

I hope the Blades get back to Cloud Ruler Temple promptly. I was concerned that they'd apparently left the hard-won items for the ritual inadequately guarded while the battle for the fourth was under way. You scaled up the battle to more real numbers, but your descriptions of CRT didn't make it appear any bigger than it is in the game, so it seemed like everyone had come to the fight!

[SubRosa]

So the Leyawiin contingent is hurting too I see. Including the inexperienced Cordelia. Well, at least she went out like a soldier. Bravil too. There is another name we remember among the dead.

Ongar was a welcome sight, and the townsfolk of Bruma. I have to admit I was not expecting to see them in the aftermath. Glad to be surprised for once!

[Grits]

“It’s a promise, Apsice,” I said. “When things are settled, I’ll come down to Leyawiin and check up on all of you.”

I like to see Julian thinking about what happens once the Dragonfires are lit. I can’t begin to guess how things will work out for her, but I enjoyed seeing a glimpse of her thinking.

I was pleasantly surprised to see Ongar at work on the field, or at least talking about work. It was also a reminder that Bruma’s citizens don’t know about such things as missing Amulets and Great Sigil Stones.

I wonder, will we get a screenshot of Julian’s statue?

[Acadian]

So Leyawiin and Bravil check in.

A shame about Cordelia, but comforting that she went out on a courageous note.

’If only we had had more time.’
Could’ve, would’ve, should’ve. Very natural for Julian to second guess herself in the aftermath.

I’m enjoying your portrayal of Captains Vera Lerus and Caelia Draconis. I think it is so neat how the two ladies fill almost opposite roles in BF as they do in OHDH. Don't get me wrong - your portrayal is totally consistent with your story and wonderfully done. That just shows the wonderful flexibility this great game provides for those of us who tell its stories.

And Ongar well-represents the townsfolk of Bruma helping to clear that bloody plain.

[McBadgere]

"...and see to it that you get your just rewards.”

“Now you’re sounding like th’ Count,” one of the guards grumbled in mock dismay.

"Ah, I see you have another Black Bow." ...

Fantastic chapter!!...

Loved it!!...The way she went to each contingent to check on them was brilliant...She should wind up Commander of All Cyrodiilic Forces™ in the end...Yes... ...Nah, that was a wonderful piece of writing...She's a wonderfully realised character...Fantastic stuff...

Nice one!!...

*Applauds heartily*...



Ps...With deepest regret , I second Ghastley's nit...( )...If how Lerus looked belied the power of the animal, either it got lucky and shouldn't have made that much of a mess of the poor man, or Lerus should have been smashed to pieces and wasn't...

"Spoke to the power" maybe? ...

Dunno...Just saying...

Nono...Please don't get up...I was just...aaargh!!...

[treydog]

If I am to return from my extended commentary absence, I cannot think of a better story with which to do so. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending), the Quot-a-Matic (TM, pat. Pending) spunged a widget. That will keep me from doing a straight copy-pasta of everything to date.

First- returning to this story has been much like meeting a good friend after a long separation. Julian, yes. And of course Blanco and Sai. All are good friends. But there is also the tone, the style, the cadence of the telling that cause me to settle deeper into my chair and sigh with contentment.

The descriptive passages are brilliant and vivid as ever, from the “small” (the meeting with Countess Carvain) to the “huge” (the battlefield before Bruma). And the recounting of the battle itself- complete with the essential elements of Cordelia’s inexperience and Leland’s questionable background… superlatives fail me.

Seeing Martin demonstrate, in so many ways, his fitness to BE emperor- again, you do that with such a light, sure touch. Wonderful. And even as the power of the Septim waxes, Julian senses the mortality of the man (and perhaps even the Empire?) Moreover, when she frankly states the Miscarand frightened her, there is a sign of how far our former pilus has come. And it is also a measure of how much she trusts those to whom she reveals that fear. Freeing the ghosts in Sancre Tor was a step on this path, and an important one- but freeing some of her own ghosts was even more essential to becoming a true Blades Sister.

There is more- so much more- including Camillus and the Legion he just “found” lying around loose; the appearance of the Bruma Fighters Guild; the tactics of keeping a reserve and forcing the Daedra to attack. I am not caught up yet- but I am close. And how wonderful it is. Welcome once more to the fireside, Julian. There is a mug of mulled cider waiting for you.

[haute ecole rider]

@ghastley: Of course Ongar is out there looting the dead. The daedra, that is. Plenty of cheap dremora weapons and armor to be had, not to mention otherwise scarce alchemy ingredients such as daedra hearts! Thanks for the nit - belie is a word that has always given me trouble. Nit fixed! As for the Blades, apparently I haven't given much of an impression of more than just the few named Blades in the game. I should have thought to mention somewhere that Jauffre had called many of the Blades agents home to fill in the blanks left by the decimation of the Dragonguard.

@SubRosa: I am glad to surprise you for once! As I saw it, the townspeople wanted to celebrate Martin's victory, but when they saw him staying among the dead and wounded, making sure they were brought safely off the field, they went out themselves to help out. I'm sure Countess Carvain had something to do with it.

@Grits: Yes, Julian is already thinking of life beyond the main quest (LBMQ). With the end so palpably near, she is struggling to anticipate her role in the future. It doesn't help that Martin doesn't seem forthcoming with his plans for her.

@Acadian: After the time I spent on how unprepared Leyawiin's contingent was, and how inappropriate the choice of Cordelia was for the role of decanus, I had to be consistent and show the consequences of such failure on Draconis's part. In a way I wish Cordelia had the chance to live out her lesson, but war doesn't care about people's potential, as I'm sure you know. Yes, the comparisons between Lerus and Draconis in my fanfic is virtually inevitable. And perhaps sometime in the future we will see how Julian fulfills her promise to the Leyawiin veterans.

@McBadgere: One of the things I like about Julian is her ability in taking on the mannerisms of certain people - it's her way of poking fun at them without overtly disrespecting them. If she had been speaking to the guards of Skingrad, she would have said it differently! Same goes for Anvil and Chorrol. I'm glad you picked up on that sly humor of hers. And don't ever regret making nits! It's how we improve! Your second was much appreciated as well.

@treydog: Welcome back, my favorite Chorrol canine! It's so good to see you again. And I'm flattered that you started with my story. I have to admit that my Camillus found his inspiration in your Athlain's Legion trainer (Carnius? Carbo? I can't quite recall - forgive me!). Carvain was one of those characters that was intended to be just a minor thing, but she had other ideas of her own importance to the story. I'm thinking of giving her some writing time of her own, and find the answer to one of my most pressing questions of the game - how did she become Countess? Julian thanks you for the mulled cider.

The story so far: After the grueling hell of the Battle of Bruma comes Paradise. Camoran's Paradise, that is. I made an executive decision not to write what I feel is one of the most linear quests in the game (other than the tutorial), so we actually pick up on her return from her encounter with Mankar Camoran.

*********************
Chapter 32.1 - After Paradise

I met Cirroc as he exited the barracks wing. He managed to give me an evaluating glance and a welcoming greeting at the same time. “I’m fine, Cirroc,” I said softly. “Just tired.”

He nodded in agreement. “You look it, Julian. I take it Paradise wasn’t exactly a walk along the Abecean Sea.”

“No, it wasn’t,” I shook my head. “But my mission was accomplished, and that’s what matters.”

Cirroc regarded me a few moments longer. “Then I take it our Septim will be leaving Bruma soon?”

I took a deep breath. “Soon,” I affirmed. “What news of Roliand’s condition?”

Cirroc’s dark eyes grew bleaker. “No change, Julian. His body weakens the longer he remains unconscious.”

I looked down at the wide wooden floorboards beneath our feet. “That bad?” I hadn’t had a chance to see the big Nord since he had been carried into the Chapel of Talos. Cirroc and Orania still felt he was too frail for the long transport to Cloud Ruler Temple, so Roliand remained in one of the empty cells designated for the monks that never quite filled the place.

“Falvius prays for him four times daily,” Cirroc’s tired tone drew my gaze back up. “But so far Talos has not answered, one way or the other.”

I thought of Valdemar’s longing for the halls of Sovngarde. “Would it be better to let him pass on?” Saying the words hurt more than I expected. “Is that what Talos wants of us?”

Cirroc scowled at my words. “We are keeping him as comfortable as we can,” his breath hissed slowly between clenched teeth. “The rest is up to Talos.” His hand came up and gripped my shoulder. “You need to rest. I suspect our Septim will be keeping you busy in the upcoming days.”

“Tell me of the others,” I stopped him from leaving. “Caroline, Belisarius? And Cyrus’s arm?”

“They are regaining their strength,” Cirroc’s drawn expression lightened slightly. “You will find them in good spirits, I believe. Cyrus will recover the full use of his arm.”

Thank Akatosh, thank Talos! Finally I faced the fear in the pit of my stomach. “And the Captain?”

Once again Cirroc’s face reflected the severity of Steffan’s suffering. “His body heals, but his spirit remains afflicted,” he said softly. “He is struggling with the loss of his sword hand, and what it means for him. You understand.”

I closed my eyes and released his arm. I understand all too well. Akatosh knows how hard I’ve tried to forget it. “Thank you, Cirroc, for all you’ve done for my brothers and sister.”

“It is the least I can do,” he answered softly. “The Blades have lost too many. Yes, it’s for the sake of Martin Septim, but Bruma has benefited from your sacrifice just as much.” He sighed. “And after all, we share the blessing of Talos, Bruma and the Blades.”

I remained rooted to the spot a few moments longer after Cirroc departed into the cold afternoon sunlight. The Hall of Blades stood silent, empty of life. I turned and looked up at the katanas hanging from the rafters, my eye seeking out the newest additions.

Achille, how can we maintain watch from our gates without your eagle gaze? Baragon, where is your crooked smile, your dry laugh? Fortis and Pelagius, who will take your place on the practice sands? And Jena, who will remind me that I am woman as well as soldier?

My vision blurred as I lowered my gaze to the fire still crackling in the great hearth. The chalk lines drawn on the floorboards before it, already dispersed by passing feet, swirled vaguely through my tears.

“Ma’am?” A new voice broke my gloom and brought me back to myself. I wiped the back of my left hand across my eyes before turning to face the speaker. His gaze flickered briefly, and he shifted uneasily in the blue and gold cuirass. About my age, the Breton shared the same florid complexion as his High Rock fellows, the same lean, rangy frame. But he wore the heavy armor with unease.

“I’ve not met you before, sir,” I said. “I’m Julian of Anvil.”

“I know,” he nodded, his dark brown forelock flopping into his eyes. “I’m Dunore Wickford -” His eyes flickered briefly. “Dunore, I mean.”

“Ah, yes, Grandmaster Jauffre asked you to stay on as part of the Dragonguard?” I recalled the aged Breton mentioning keeping back a few of his more experienced agents to replace Fortis and Pelagius.

Dunore straightened unconsciously within the cuirass. “Yes, ma’am,” he answered, pride creeping into his voice. “I’ve Legion forester experience, but never fought in a cohort.”

“The Blades are not quite the same as a Legion cohort,” I replied. “So I wouldn’t worry too much about that. Just listen to Baurus and do what he tells you to do. He’s a good man to follow.”

“Actually,” now Dunore smiled, a lopsided smile that reminded me heartbreakingly of Baragon, “that’s exactly what I’m doing now. Captain Baurus told me to do two things. First, to tell you that dinner will be ready in about three hours, if you want to take your rest before then.”

I smiled back the tears that threatened again. “Thanks, Dunore. And what was the second?”

“To ask you, ma’am -”

“Dunore,” I broke in, “we are brother and sister in the Blades here. I’m just Julian to you.” My grief subsided a little at the bemusement in Dunore’s face. “Go on, what are you supposed to ask me?”

“If you will teach me those Legion cohort tactics that you feel would be useful in the Blades, ma -” he shook his head, “Julian.” His gaze shifted toward the barracks door behind me. “After you’ve rested and eaten, of course.”

“Of course, Dunore,” I responded. “I will be happy to do so. Are there more than just you?”

“New guards, you mean?” Dunore nodded. “Ertius is here as well, he’s from the lower Niben basin.” His eyes grew distant for a moment. “For now, it’s just us two and Captain Baurus.”

“Then let’s all get together after dinner and we’ll discuss tactics,” I suggested. “I’m not familiar with Dragonguard work, so we’ll need Captain Baurus’s input as well.” I smiled again at the look that crossed Dunore’s face. “You can tell the Captain this was my idea.”

“Yes, ma’ - Julian,” Dunore returned my smile lopsidedly and saluted rather awkwardly before turning away. As I watched him leave the hall, I became aware of Grandmaster Jauffre watching me from a chair in the shadows.

“Hello, Grandmaster,” I greeted him softly, uncertain if he was in a mood for conversation or seeking a moment’s solitude.

“Hello, Julian,” his tone was as gruff as ever, revealing no emotion other than that of a commanding officer. “You really need to get some rest while you can.”

“Yes, sir,” I saluted him before striding to the barracks door. The significance of Dunore’s salute hit me - not one between equals but of a subordinate to his superior. My hand on its knob, I hesitated and glanced back at his shadowed form. “But Grandmaster, since when do I have rank in the Blades?”

His head turned toward me. “Rank?” he repeated. “You’ve certainly earned it.”

“But I’ve only been a Blade sister a few months!” I exclaimed softly. “There are others who have served for longer! Dunore, for one, I’m certain.”

“Dunore has been an agent for many years, true,” Jauffre’s head nodded. “But it’s not the length of service that counts, it’s the quality of that service. And you’ve had a very full few months. No, you don’t have any official rank other than that of Blade sister, but the others respect you for what you’ve done. And that is why Dunore saluted you.”

This post has been edited by haute ecole rider: Sep 8 2012, 08:59 PM

[Acadian]

A fine choice, to skip the walkthrough of Paradise and join Julian back at CRT.

‘I thought of Valdemar’s longing for the halls of Sovngarde. “Would it be better to let him pass on?” Saying the words hurt more than I expected. “Is that what Talos wants of us?”
Expertly phrased for just the right effect. We could feel exactly what Julian did and why she felt it.

How like Julian to ask of Steffan last. Not only is he the boss, but he’s got a tug going on with Julian’s heartstrings.

I like that you remind us how important Talos is to the Blades and that Bruma is the City of Talos not by accident.

Great treatment of the Hall of Blades and its newest additions as Julian shares her poignant thoughts and memories of her fallen brothers and sister.

Julian is reminded that Baurus is now Captain – tempting her eyes to tear up again over what Steffan has lost.

[Grits]

Perhaps Ongar was the source for all of the Daedric equipment I see carried by marauders in the game.

I’m definitely in favor of not writing the game parts that don’t inspire you. I’m guessing from the scuffed chalk marks and Jauffre’s greeting that Julian has been back for some time, and that Martin is now wearing the Amulet. I got confused when it sounded like Julian didn’t know what had been going on with the recovering Blades in the barracks wing.

Good to see the Dragonguard starting to fill in their ranks. Now there’s Captain Baurus instead of Captain Renault, but I wonder what will happen with Captain Steffan.


Possible nit: “But I’ve only been a Blade sister a few months!” I exclaimed softly, keeping my voice soft.
I suspect that only one of the ‘softs’ was supposed to make it through editing.