Well, after some unfinished stories and a long hiatus, I'm back in this territory of the forums. Not that anyone should care. Anyway, I hope you enjoy my latest creation.
Prologue
It was a dark night, and the rain fell in sheets over the town of Cheydinhal. Unbeknownst to the gate guards, a cloaked, shadowy figure climbed the stone wall on the other side. He sat perched on the wall for several seconds before jumping to the ground below, using the loud pitter-patter of the rain to cover the sound. Swiftly and silently he ran, clutching a package tightly wrapped in a gray cloth. He reached his destination in a matter of seconds, and after lifting the grate up, he descended into the darkness of a well.
He was welcomed at arrow point.
"I need to speak with Vicente," he said in an otherwordly voice from the shadows of his cowl. He turned his side to the woman in front of him, shielding his cargo should she decide to fire.
The archer, who was a Bosmer woman dressed in the typical black leather armor and hood of the Dark Brotherhood, fumbled for a response. Before she could give one, a hand from behind rested on her shoulder. Taleandril looked to see that it was Vicente Valtieri himself, the oldest member of their specific chapter of the Dark Brotherhood, due to his vampiric nature.
"Don't worry, Taleandril, I'm expecting company," Vicente said reassuringly. Taleandril gave the visitor one last glare before going about her business.
"Let us go somewhere more private," the vampire suggested, leading the way through the dark, damp corridors until they reached Vicente's quarters. There was no door or any other typical way of creating privacy, but the other assassins seemed to respect the vampire's space and gave him a wide berth. There was not a soul near enough to overhear anything that might be said.
"Kyzra, old friend! What brings you from Oblivion?"
"Trouble," Kyzra replied, removing his soaking wet cloak, revealing his black and red skin, horns, and armor that marked him as a powerful Dremora. He sat down at the small table across from the vampire assassin.
Vicente gave him a questioning glare. Anything Kyzra believed to be trouble must be dangerous indeed. The two of them had been through much together, though most of it had been a hundred years or more ago, and Vicente could not remember a time when the Kynmarcher had feared anything.
"I have disgraced the clan and insulted Lord Dagon himself. I will not live long, I assure you. Even my own armies have abandoned me, and my most trusted Kynreeve has taken my rank and title."
The vampire stood angrily, "You would bring an entire Dremora fiefdom here? Endanger me and my brothers and sisters?"
"You owe me!" Kyzra shouted, his booming Dremora voice echoing througout the halls. Just then, the bundle he carried made a sound. It cried loudly. Vicente's rage was put to a halt as he wrapped his mind around this new development.
"It is my son," Kyzra explained, "Half Dremora, half dunmer. I want you to take him; I cannot bear for him to die for my mistakes."
"That was your disgrace, then? A dunmer woman?" Vicente asked, sitting back down.
"She was only the half of it," Kyzra replied cryptically, "Will you take him?"
Vicente nodded, taking the infant from the Dremora Lord, "I will warn you, I am no parent."
"As long as he lives, Vampire, I do not care how you raise him. Just promise me one thing."
"If it is within my power."
"Never tell him my name, never speak of me."
Vicente nodded in silent understanding. Kyzra stood and began to exit.
"What is his name?" Vicente called after him.
Kyzra paused for a short moment, as if he had never thought of the answer to that question. "Azyrek," he finally said, "Azyrek."
He left the hideout without another word. Azyrek cried all night long.
Full Version: Blood of the Kyn
Fascinating.
Wow, this is a prologue that definite sinks the hooks in. I want to read more.
Great prologue. If the rest of the story is like that, then I'm sure we have a new hit on our hands. Keep up the great work!
Nice opener.
This sounds interesting.
And of special note, if anyone has read "Racial Phylonology" (I think it's called that.) it's is hinted that Daedra/Mortal unions may well be possible. The book states that such unions 'have been reported' though never confirmed.
After all, who would admit to being a daedra in a plane(t) that equates them with demons. No, daedra are not demons people, read the lore, a bit more.
And of special note, if anyone has read "Racial Phylonology" (I think it's called that.) it's is hinted that Daedra/Mortal unions may well be possible. The book states that such unions 'have been reported' though never confirmed.
After all, who would admit to being a daedra in a plane(t) that equates them with demons. No, daedra are not demons people, read the lore, a bit more.
QUOTE(Dantrag @ Feb 5 2008, 04:08 AM) 
Well, after some unfinished stories and a long hiatus, I'm back in this territory of the forums. Not that anyone should care. Anyway, I hope you enjoy my latest creation.
Why wouldn't we care? This is some nice work! The only thing I would say bad about it is that it's too short for my taste....
Blast! This is so interesting and I just want to read more!!!
Very nice prologue!
There better be more!!! lol
Very nice prologue!
There better be more!!! lol
Um, nobody said Daedra were demons Black Hand.
Danny! Great to see more of your excellent writing! Now this is interesting, a child being the offsring of a Dremora and some Dunmer maiden....that's a real treat!
I can imagine Azyrek's life is going to be....well if not easy, very interesting...
This prologue is very well written and leaves just enough unanswered questions to trigger the urge to learn more....
Go for it Danny!
I can imagine Azyrek's life is going to be....well if not easy, very interesting...
This prologue is very well written and leaves just enough unanswered questions to trigger the urge to learn more....
Go for it Danny!
Yay, Danny's back! And what a promising start this is. I look forward to seeing more. And add me to the list of those who are happy to see you....
Chapter 1 - A Bloody Message
Azyrek appeared as nothing more than a dark shadow as he made his silent way towards the luxurious Tiber Septim Hotel. It was past midnight and no one bore witness as he stepped inside. His heart pounded furiously as he crept upstairs towards the rooms. He wore the typical garb of a Dark Brotherhood assassin, a black leather suit of armor and a dark cowl pulled low over his face, hiding his unusual features. His skin was a dark gray with pointed markings scattered upon it, his eyes were dark orange, and though they were covered by shoulder length black hair, he had two small horns protruding from his forehead.
After spending the entire sixteen years of his life training in the dark corridors of the Sanctuary, Azyrek was eager to complete his first assignment with no mistakes. The contract was a complicated one, and Azyrek could hardly believe that it was being trusted to a novice.
His mission was to creep into the room of Llether Salam, a dunmer from Morrowind with a Morag Tong writ on his head. The Morag Tong was not recognized as a legal organization in any other country save Morrowind, but that did not stop them from chasing down victims across boundaries. They were also the mortal enemies of the Dark Brotherhood that Azyrek called family all of his life. Once in the room, Azyrek's assignment was simple; protect Llether and slay the Morag Tong assassin. Llether was lucky; the Dark Brotherhood didn't often send assassins to protect their clients. The Dark Brotherhood did not partake in unprofitable business, and therefore rarely wasted resources on protecting people. This particular contract was honored only because the Morag Tong was operating outside their legal area, and thus violating the latest agreement between the two guilds. The Dark Brotherhood was declaring war on the Morag Tong, and he was the bloody messenger.
Azyrek knocked softly on Llether's door four times, and was greeted by a frightened, exhausted old dunmer.
"Lie down on the bed as if you're sleeping," Azyrek ordered, still hiding behind his cowl.
"What now?" Llether asked after doing as he was told.
"Now you be silent and do not move," he answered gruffly.
Azyrek then put out every light in the room and sat down in a wooden chair sitting in the corner directly opposite the door. He waited less than an hour before he heard the clicking sound of a probing lockpick. Knowing his cue, Azyrek moved quickly and silently towards the door and hid to that when the assassin opened the door, he would be concealing his own killer with two inches of solid wood.
The door opened, and the Morag Tong assassin silently sneaked to Llether's side. Azyrek slipped out from behind the door and moved unnoticed behind. Azyrek's dagger made its way into his hand.
It just as easily made its way across the Morag Tong assassin's throat.
Azyrek let the assassin fall to the floor and watched only for a second as a crimson pool formed on the most expensive rug he had ever seen. In the assassin's lifeless hand was a crumpled note. Azyrek bent down and picked it up, stuffing it in his pocket as he stood back up and headed for the window.
Llether sat up, looking at the dead assassin with terror, "Vivec's Mercy!" he shouted, both in fear at the sight and relief in being alive.
Azyrek said nothing more to Llether Salam, as he had escaped out the window as soon as he was sure that the other assassin was dead. He landed hard on the stone streets and rolled his ankle, but he had so much adrenaline pumping through his veins at that moment that he hardly cared. His first mission was complete, and so far nothing had gone wrong. All he had to do now was get to the waterfront, swim across the lake to his horse, and ride back to the sanctuary in Cheydinhal. He would become a Murderer in the Brotherhood in less than a day.
About five hours later, at sunrise while riding his horse, Azyrek straightened out the note he had taken and read it. Under the Morag Tong seal it read:
We are watching, halfblood.
Azyrek's eyes widened in a brief shock, and he burned the note with a weak fire spell, shaking his hand vigorously afterwards to get the ash off. The Brotherhood did not need to know everything.
Azyrek appeared as nothing more than a dark shadow as he made his silent way towards the luxurious Tiber Septim Hotel. It was past midnight and no one bore witness as he stepped inside. His heart pounded furiously as he crept upstairs towards the rooms. He wore the typical garb of a Dark Brotherhood assassin, a black leather suit of armor and a dark cowl pulled low over his face, hiding his unusual features. His skin was a dark gray with pointed markings scattered upon it, his eyes were dark orange, and though they were covered by shoulder length black hair, he had two small horns protruding from his forehead.
After spending the entire sixteen years of his life training in the dark corridors of the Sanctuary, Azyrek was eager to complete his first assignment with no mistakes. The contract was a complicated one, and Azyrek could hardly believe that it was being trusted to a novice.
His mission was to creep into the room of Llether Salam, a dunmer from Morrowind with a Morag Tong writ on his head. The Morag Tong was not recognized as a legal organization in any other country save Morrowind, but that did not stop them from chasing down victims across boundaries. They were also the mortal enemies of the Dark Brotherhood that Azyrek called family all of his life. Once in the room, Azyrek's assignment was simple; protect Llether and slay the Morag Tong assassin. Llether was lucky; the Dark Brotherhood didn't often send assassins to protect their clients. The Dark Brotherhood did not partake in unprofitable business, and therefore rarely wasted resources on protecting people. This particular contract was honored only because the Morag Tong was operating outside their legal area, and thus violating the latest agreement between the two guilds. The Dark Brotherhood was declaring war on the Morag Tong, and he was the bloody messenger.
Azyrek knocked softly on Llether's door four times, and was greeted by a frightened, exhausted old dunmer.
"Lie down on the bed as if you're sleeping," Azyrek ordered, still hiding behind his cowl.
"What now?" Llether asked after doing as he was told.
"Now you be silent and do not move," he answered gruffly.
Azyrek then put out every light in the room and sat down in a wooden chair sitting in the corner directly opposite the door. He waited less than an hour before he heard the clicking sound of a probing lockpick. Knowing his cue, Azyrek moved quickly and silently towards the door and hid to that when the assassin opened the door, he would be concealing his own killer with two inches of solid wood.
The door opened, and the Morag Tong assassin silently sneaked to Llether's side. Azyrek slipped out from behind the door and moved unnoticed behind. Azyrek's dagger made its way into his hand.
It just as easily made its way across the Morag Tong assassin's throat.
Azyrek let the assassin fall to the floor and watched only for a second as a crimson pool formed on the most expensive rug he had ever seen. In the assassin's lifeless hand was a crumpled note. Azyrek bent down and picked it up, stuffing it in his pocket as he stood back up and headed for the window.
Llether sat up, looking at the dead assassin with terror, "Vivec's Mercy!" he shouted, both in fear at the sight and relief in being alive.
Azyrek said nothing more to Llether Salam, as he had escaped out the window as soon as he was sure that the other assassin was dead. He landed hard on the stone streets and rolled his ankle, but he had so much adrenaline pumping through his veins at that moment that he hardly cared. His first mission was complete, and so far nothing had gone wrong. All he had to do now was get to the waterfront, swim across the lake to his horse, and ride back to the sanctuary in Cheydinhal. He would become a Murderer in the Brotherhood in less than a day.
About five hours later, at sunrise while riding his horse, Azyrek straightened out the note he had taken and read it. Under the Morag Tong seal it read:
We are watching, halfblood.
Azyrek's eyes widened in a brief shock, and he burned the note with a weak fire spell, shaking his hand vigorously afterwards to get the ash off. The Brotherhood did not need to know everything.
Wonderful update Dantrag. According to my predictions, just as good as the prologue. The end was especially stylish however. I really liked the "We're watching half-blood. part at the end. It really makes you wonder what the Morag Tong could have in store for Azyrek and how they found out he wasn't exactly human. Well, Dunmer in his case. I'll be patiently expecting the next chapter.
Interesting indeed. That was definitely a solid ending to a chapter than seemed to be a bit too easy for our main character. Glad to see that twist tossed in.
Nice stuff, this is pacing along brilliantly. I'm wandering what will happen next.
Holy crazy. So the Morag Tong assassin was a martyr for the cause? Makes me wonder, then was the guy being targetted another part of the set up. Who is the mole in the Brotherhood? What, what, what......Lots of questions here. Good stuff.
Ahhh..great update! This looks promising indeed....makes you wonder though...
More please???
More please???
Cool installment. The Morag Tong "writ" was actually a warning to Azyrek... Definitely bears thinking about.
Chapter 1 - A Bloody Message (continued)
"Welcome, Murderer," Vicente greeted as Azyrek descended the ladder that served as an entrance to the Sanctuary, "It is my honor to officially welcome you to the family."
The vampire did not have to ask if the task was completed; Azyrek had been told emphatically not to return until it was.
Azyrek didn't know how to respond, so he gave a weak, "Thank you."
Vicente chuckled, "Come with me to my quarters, Azyrek."
The half-blood followed without a word, and they both sat across from each other, separated by a small wooden table. Vicente couldn't help but be reminded of that night sixteen years ago when Azyrek's father sat in that same seat and gave his final request.
"What am I here for?" Azyrek asked, "Did I do something wrong?"
Vicente shook his head, "No, you've done nothing wrong Azyrek. Quite the opposite, actually. You see, you have been given a special assignment directly from the Listener."
"If it's directly from him, why doesn't he give it to me himself?"
"Don't be silly, child. The Listener deals directly with the Night Mother. She whispers her secrets and her directions to him alone. He has no time to spare speaking with Murderers. You have caught the Night Mother's interest, though, and that should be honor enough. Due to your unusual...heritage, you aren't suitable for assignments that would require more than just simple stealth complete. You are unique. Recognizable. Most would just as soon run from you as speak to-"
"I get it, damn! People don't like to have any sort of dealings with a dremora," Azyrek interrupted, obviously annoyed by the direction Vicente's words were taking.
"Yes, yes, sorry. Anyway, the obvious advantages of having a half dremora in our ranks cannot be ignored. Despite the obvious physical and magickal benefits, there is another. That same recognizable uniqueness I was talking about before I was interrupted could have the potential to strike fear in the hearts of our enemies. You, Azyrek, have been chosen by the Night Mother to be our main weapon in our fight against the Morag Tong."
"I don't get it," he said, "How does being a half-breed make me more able to kill Morag Tong agents?"
"It doesn't necessarily make you more able to do the actual killing, but it will make a much more profound statement to the Morag Tong. To use the Night Mother's words, you are sending them a "bloody message." Imagine the fear you will create in the hearts and minds of those agents! A Dark Brotherhood assassin with daedra blood running through his veins, whose only purpose is to eradicate the Tong. You will become more than just a thorn in their side; most likely a spear."
"Where do I start?" he asked, combining this new information with the letter he had personally received from the Morag Tong.
"Rest now, for at nightfall a horse will be readied for you outside the city gates. You will ride east to Morrowind from there. That is all I can tell you; further instructions will be given to you upon your departure."
A few minutes later, Azyrek lay in his bed, trying to get some rest as Vicente suggested. He found it hard to sleep, however, as he wondered which guild had sent the bloodier message. He was supposed to bring fear to them, but they were one step ahead; Azyrek was already scared of them.
"Welcome, Murderer," Vicente greeted as Azyrek descended the ladder that served as an entrance to the Sanctuary, "It is my honor to officially welcome you to the family."
The vampire did not have to ask if the task was completed; Azyrek had been told emphatically not to return until it was.
Azyrek didn't know how to respond, so he gave a weak, "Thank you."
Vicente chuckled, "Come with me to my quarters, Azyrek."
The half-blood followed without a word, and they both sat across from each other, separated by a small wooden table. Vicente couldn't help but be reminded of that night sixteen years ago when Azyrek's father sat in that same seat and gave his final request.
"What am I here for?" Azyrek asked, "Did I do something wrong?"
Vicente shook his head, "No, you've done nothing wrong Azyrek. Quite the opposite, actually. You see, you have been given a special assignment directly from the Listener."
"If it's directly from him, why doesn't he give it to me himself?"
"Don't be silly, child. The Listener deals directly with the Night Mother. She whispers her secrets and her directions to him alone. He has no time to spare speaking with Murderers. You have caught the Night Mother's interest, though, and that should be honor enough. Due to your unusual...heritage, you aren't suitable for assignments that would require more than just simple stealth complete. You are unique. Recognizable. Most would just as soon run from you as speak to-"
"I get it, damn! People don't like to have any sort of dealings with a dremora," Azyrek interrupted, obviously annoyed by the direction Vicente's words were taking.
"Yes, yes, sorry. Anyway, the obvious advantages of having a half dremora in our ranks cannot be ignored. Despite the obvious physical and magickal benefits, there is another. That same recognizable uniqueness I was talking about before I was interrupted could have the potential to strike fear in the hearts of our enemies. You, Azyrek, have been chosen by the Night Mother to be our main weapon in our fight against the Morag Tong."
"I don't get it," he said, "How does being a half-breed make me more able to kill Morag Tong agents?"
"It doesn't necessarily make you more able to do the actual killing, but it will make a much more profound statement to the Morag Tong. To use the Night Mother's words, you are sending them a "bloody message." Imagine the fear you will create in the hearts and minds of those agents! A Dark Brotherhood assassin with daedra blood running through his veins, whose only purpose is to eradicate the Tong. You will become more than just a thorn in their side; most likely a spear."
"Where do I start?" he asked, combining this new information with the letter he had personally received from the Morag Tong.
"Rest now, for at nightfall a horse will be readied for you outside the city gates. You will ride east to Morrowind from there. That is all I can tell you; further instructions will be given to you upon your departure."
A few minutes later, Azyrek lay in his bed, trying to get some rest as Vicente suggested. He found it hard to sleep, however, as he wondered which guild had sent the bloodier message. He was supposed to bring fear to them, but they were one step ahead; Azyrek was already scared of them.
Nice update, this is moving along solidly and quickly. I like.
You also leave a pleasing nmber of mysteries which have me wanting to read more, so more please.
You also leave a pleasing nmber of mysteries which have me wanting to read more, so more please.
- and you took the words right out of my mouth - unique!Now we will have to figure out all the Lore = what kind of stats, abilities, weknesses, immunities, etc this half-blood might have. Is he immortal, longer-lived, shorter-lived, what happens if his body is killed - does his soul return to Oblivion?
You realise you might have started something here? MOD anyone?
Yes, yes...tension is building up....excellent Danny!
Chapter 2 - Exodus
Night fell sooner than expected, and Azyrek left the sanctuary without a single word to any of his brothers or sisters. The horse had indeed been readied as promised, and the 'further instructions' were present in the form of a letter stuck in the saddlebags. Also in the bags was preserved foods, a filled canteen, and a light blanket. Choosing to read his orders later, he stuffed the paper in his pocket and was galloping across the countryside in a matter of seconds.
He slowed his horse down soon after, not wanting to put unnecessary strain on the animal so soon. Azyrek enjoyed the change of pace just as much as he enjoyed the change of scenery. The sanctuary was his home, undoubtedly, but was often his prison as well. He gazed up at the stars, and spotted the Lover overhead. It was a cold night, and even though he had his cloak wrapped tightly around him, the crisp air still bit viciously at his face and hands.
Leave it to a month called Sun's Dawn to be this damn cold.
Despite his small troubles, though, Azyrek truly loved the night. In the darkness, he was no longer a halfblood. Legion Foresters said "good evening, citizen," to him casually as they passed, and the occasional traveler nodded to acknowledge his presence. He was just like any other person, just as long as nobody caught a glimpse of his daedric features.
Just as with all good things, the night ended quickly. The Lover slowly became invisible as its background became brighter and brighter with the rising of the sun. As if to make the change even more drastic, Azyrek noticed that the hills were getting bigger and rockier as he kept on his eastern path towards the mountains. He moved off of the main road in search of a suitable place to rest.
He had decided before he even left that he would travel at night and rest during the daylight hours. That way, he would remain relatively unnoticed and avoid unwanted troubles.
He found the perfect place to set up camp. Trickling down from the mountains, there was a small stream running nearly parallel to the road. Once Azyrek crossed over, he found a small rock formation that afforded him enough shelter to sleep under. He used the stream to have a quick drink and to refill his canteen. Now that there was enough light to read by, he pulled the letter from his pocket and read:
Dear Brother,
Ride east to Morrowind, and then continue east on the main road to Mournhold. Head through the Gates of Symmachus to enter the Plaza Brindisi Dorom. Approach the statue at midnight of any day and say the phrase "I am lost," and one of your Brothers will show you the rest of the way.
May the Night Mother bless your steed and your blade.
Azyrek ripped the note into tiny pieces and tossed it into the stream. The Dark Brotherhood did not like having its agents carrying evidence around.
"I am lost," he muttered to himself before he tethered his horse and laid down underneath his chosen rock structure. He was soon fast asleep.
Night fell sooner than expected, and Azyrek left the sanctuary without a single word to any of his brothers or sisters. The horse had indeed been readied as promised, and the 'further instructions' were present in the form of a letter stuck in the saddlebags. Also in the bags was preserved foods, a filled canteen, and a light blanket. Choosing to read his orders later, he stuffed the paper in his pocket and was galloping across the countryside in a matter of seconds.
He slowed his horse down soon after, not wanting to put unnecessary strain on the animal so soon. Azyrek enjoyed the change of pace just as much as he enjoyed the change of scenery. The sanctuary was his home, undoubtedly, but was often his prison as well. He gazed up at the stars, and spotted the Lover overhead. It was a cold night, and even though he had his cloak wrapped tightly around him, the crisp air still bit viciously at his face and hands.
Leave it to a month called Sun's Dawn to be this damn cold.
Despite his small troubles, though, Azyrek truly loved the night. In the darkness, he was no longer a halfblood. Legion Foresters said "good evening, citizen," to him casually as they passed, and the occasional traveler nodded to acknowledge his presence. He was just like any other person, just as long as nobody caught a glimpse of his daedric features.
Just as with all good things, the night ended quickly. The Lover slowly became invisible as its background became brighter and brighter with the rising of the sun. As if to make the change even more drastic, Azyrek noticed that the hills were getting bigger and rockier as he kept on his eastern path towards the mountains. He moved off of the main road in search of a suitable place to rest.
He had decided before he even left that he would travel at night and rest during the daylight hours. That way, he would remain relatively unnoticed and avoid unwanted troubles.
He found the perfect place to set up camp. Trickling down from the mountains, there was a small stream running nearly parallel to the road. Once Azyrek crossed over, he found a small rock formation that afforded him enough shelter to sleep under. He used the stream to have a quick drink and to refill his canteen. Now that there was enough light to read by, he pulled the letter from his pocket and read:
Dear Brother,
Ride east to Morrowind, and then continue east on the main road to Mournhold. Head through the Gates of Symmachus to enter the Plaza Brindisi Dorom. Approach the statue at midnight of any day and say the phrase "I am lost," and one of your Brothers will show you the rest of the way.
May the Night Mother bless your steed and your blade.
Azyrek ripped the note into tiny pieces and tossed it into the stream. The Dark Brotherhood did not like having its agents carrying evidence around.
"I am lost," he muttered to himself before he tethered his horse and laid down underneath his chosen rock structure. He was soon fast asleep.
Ahhh an update! Sweet Danny.....I kinda like the half-blood....yes I do.
I wonder what will happen next,,hmmm
I wonder what will happen next,,hmmm
Love it. This story is a really good one.
sorry this one's so short but...oh well.
Chapter 2 - Exodus (continued)
Azyrek did not sleep through all the daylight hours, yet he stayed well away from the road until his cover of darkness was restored. He pressed on towards Mournhold at a steady pace, though the road was harder to travel on this particular night. The young assassin was passing through the mountains now, and as he ascended, the air became colder and thinner and the wind blew harder. Around midnight, he reached for his canteen to take a drink, only to realize that his water had frozen. Within the hour snow was falling. Azyrek was crouched low on his horse, trying to stay warm in the blizzard. It wasn't daylight yet, but he thought it best to stop for the night and let the storm pass.
Keeping an eye out for suitable shelter, he soon found a small cave that seemed decent enough. It had a low but wide entrance, and Azyrek had to get on hands and knees just to get in. The interior was spacious enough, though, and no wind or snow was leaking in. His horse became a small problem, as it could not possibly fit inside the cave, but he simply removed its saddle and reigns and set it free.
"Even if you'd survived the night, you wouldn't survive living in Morrowind," he said to it before slapping its hindquarters and sending it galloping back the way he came.
Soon he had a fire going in the cave, and he set his canteen near it so that its contents would melt. He sat on his saddle in front of the fire chewing a piece of dried meat. He took a glance towards the cave entrance to check on the weather and was surprised to see a person crawling in. Because of the dim light, he couldn't make out any details.
"Hello...?" the stranger asked, "You aren't a Legion Forrester are you?" her tone hinted that she knew the answer to her question and was not pleased with it.
"No, I'm not," Azyrek replied, thankful that the cold had forced him to keep his cowl pulled over his head, "Why?"
"Well...I was really hoping that you were a guard, and since you aren't...Oh, by Mephala, I've gotten you in trouble now!" she was pacing back and forth quickly, in some sort of mild panic, "I have to leave now before they kill us bo-"
"Stop!" Azyrek shouted, standing up to move towards the stranger. It was a dunmer woman, and her looks did not match his first impression of her. She was clad in a light leather armor and wore a quiver on her back and a dagger on her hip. In her hand was a bow, and by the lack of frost on it, Azyrek could guess that she had been firing it.
"You mentioned trouble," he pressed, "Explain. Slowly, please."
Chapter 2 - Exodus (continued)
Azyrek did not sleep through all the daylight hours, yet he stayed well away from the road until his cover of darkness was restored. He pressed on towards Mournhold at a steady pace, though the road was harder to travel on this particular night. The young assassin was passing through the mountains now, and as he ascended, the air became colder and thinner and the wind blew harder. Around midnight, he reached for his canteen to take a drink, only to realize that his water had frozen. Within the hour snow was falling. Azyrek was crouched low on his horse, trying to stay warm in the blizzard. It wasn't daylight yet, but he thought it best to stop for the night and let the storm pass.
Keeping an eye out for suitable shelter, he soon found a small cave that seemed decent enough. It had a low but wide entrance, and Azyrek had to get on hands and knees just to get in. The interior was spacious enough, though, and no wind or snow was leaking in. His horse became a small problem, as it could not possibly fit inside the cave, but he simply removed its saddle and reigns and set it free.
"Even if you'd survived the night, you wouldn't survive living in Morrowind," he said to it before slapping its hindquarters and sending it galloping back the way he came.
Soon he had a fire going in the cave, and he set his canteen near it so that its contents would melt. He sat on his saddle in front of the fire chewing a piece of dried meat. He took a glance towards the cave entrance to check on the weather and was surprised to see a person crawling in. Because of the dim light, he couldn't make out any details.
"Hello...?" the stranger asked, "You aren't a Legion Forrester are you?" her tone hinted that she knew the answer to her question and was not pleased with it.
"No, I'm not," Azyrek replied, thankful that the cold had forced him to keep his cowl pulled over his head, "Why?"
"Well...I was really hoping that you were a guard, and since you aren't...Oh, by Mephala, I've gotten you in trouble now!" she was pacing back and forth quickly, in some sort of mild panic, "I have to leave now before they kill us bo-"
"Stop!" Azyrek shouted, standing up to move towards the stranger. It was a dunmer woman, and her looks did not match his first impression of her. She was clad in a light leather armor and wore a quiver on her back and a dagger on her hip. In her hand was a bow, and by the lack of frost on it, Azyrek could guess that she had been firing it.
"You mentioned trouble," he pressed, "Explain. Slowly, please."
How wonderful to see this story still alive! I must admit I was wondering about it just the other day! A strange woman appears now, that's sweet. Who is she? What happens now?
S.G.M...
S.G.M...
You have a good way of holding the rader's interest and keeping it fast moving and exciting. I'm enjoying this.
Ah, so very intriguing. Nice work Dantrag!
Nice to see a new installment to this story. I'm very curious to find out what sort of trouble he has just gotten into.
its been awhile, but here's an update.
Chapter 2 - Exodus (continued)
The woman calmed slightly, but her eyes darted back and forth constantly as she spoke, and she was nervously tapping her foot. Despite this, her words came out confidently.
"My partner disappeared a few days ago, and I found that he was murdered. Now the ones that did it are after me. I thought I'd lost them this morning, but I was wrong. I think I hit one of them a few minutes ago, so they can't be far behind."
Azyrek stamped out the fire while she spoke; no need to give away their position, "How many?"
"Four, maybe three if my arrow hit."
"Coming from the west?"
She nodded.
Azyrek poked his head outside of the cave and looked at his surroundings. Just above the cave was an outcropping about twenty feet up. Perfect. Looking to the west, back the way he came, he looked for another position.
"Alright, if you're any good with that thing, get out and get in position above this cave," he said, pointing up to the stone ceiling, "I'll be on the ground doing what I can. Just don't let me die."
He didn't know why he was helping this woman, but then he didn't know why he wouldn't either. Dagger in hand, the assassin crawled out of the cave and found his own place behind a particularly large boulder on the opposite side of the road. He watched while the woman climbed to her position and hid.
The sky had a morning glow, but the sun had not yet risen. There was still enough darkness to make Azyrek feel comfortable in his work. Azyrek and his new partner didn't wait for more than a half hour before a lone figure appeared on the main road. He looked up to the dunmer woman; she had seen him too, and was smart enough to hold fire. The halfblood continued to scan the mountainside, and spotted another nosing around in the woods for clues. The tracker was talented; Azyrek had almost not seen him.
At least three. he reminded himself. He heard a bird call then, and his eyes went up to the outcropping. He saw a hand point quickly at the boulder and disappear again. Thinking quickly, he knew where the third was. He and his opponent were on opposite sides of the rock, each unaware of each other. He was especially glad for his ally just then.
How did I not hear it? he asked himself as he crept along the side. He took a deep breath before swinging around. Azyrek used one hand to cover the mer's mouth and the other to stab him in the gut. His target's eyes barely had time to widen before his body collapsed.
At that same moment, Azyrek saw the figure on the road fall backwards, an arrow sticking from his neck. He glanced back into the wood, but the other one had disappeared. He looked back up towards his partner, who was standing now, giving a thumbs up.
Azyrek was scared now; all of their cover was gone. What was she doing?
"Where's the other one?" he shouted. It didn't matter at this point anyway.
Even from this distance, and in the relative darkness, he could tell that she was smiling as she called back, "He tried to come up behind me. He regretted it."
Azyrek walked out onto the road then, and the woman began descending the rock face.
"Takes care of that," she said cheerfully, all traces of her earlier anxiety gone.
"Mm." Azyrek grunted while he went back into the cave to gather his things. The last thing he wanted was to be caught camping around three dead bodies. With his heritage it could only cause problems.
"Thanks for helping me out...uh...what was your name? I'm Rinori," she said, following him inside.
"Azyrek," he answered.
She crinkled her nose, "Where in Oblivion that name come from?" she didn't wait for an answer, just kept talking, "So where are you headed?"
Azyrek couldn't help but snicker at her choice of words, but still answered shortly, "Morrowind."
"Me too!" she said, "I think we could help each other out. Especially since I've been this way before and we need to avoid roads now."
"No," he answered bluntly.
"Why? You some sort of criminal or something?" she demanded.
"Maybe,"
"Well I don't care. And what's with the hood? Show me your face."
Azyrek didn't really have time to answer, since Rinori had already come behind him and pulled his cowl off his head. He turned around, "Happy now?"
The woman was obviously shocked for a moment, but did well to recover, "I've befriended a dremora!"
Azyrek didn't know how to gauge her reaction, "Half. And no you haven't."
"Then why did you help me? You could have just avoided all this if you'd let me walk away..."
He didn't answer, he just shouldered his pack and crawled out of the cave. He couldn't have a tag-a-long while trying to work for the Brotherhood. Too many potential problems. At the same time, though, this was the first person outside of the sanctuary that wasn't bothered by his appearance.
"Hey! Don't just walk away from me!" she exclaimed, following him yet again. When he didn't slow down, she ran to catch up. "Well if I can't travel with you, I'll just follow you, okay?"
Azyrek sighed heavily, "Fine."
He was already moving during the day, which wasn't ideal, and now he had an annoying companion. At least she would make things look more normal should they encounter anyone.
Chapter 2 - Exodus (continued)
The woman calmed slightly, but her eyes darted back and forth constantly as she spoke, and she was nervously tapping her foot. Despite this, her words came out confidently.
"My partner disappeared a few days ago, and I found that he was murdered. Now the ones that did it are after me. I thought I'd lost them this morning, but I was wrong. I think I hit one of them a few minutes ago, so they can't be far behind."
Azyrek stamped out the fire while she spoke; no need to give away their position, "How many?"
"Four, maybe three if my arrow hit."
"Coming from the west?"
She nodded.
Azyrek poked his head outside of the cave and looked at his surroundings. Just above the cave was an outcropping about twenty feet up. Perfect. Looking to the west, back the way he came, he looked for another position.
"Alright, if you're any good with that thing, get out and get in position above this cave," he said, pointing up to the stone ceiling, "I'll be on the ground doing what I can. Just don't let me die."
He didn't know why he was helping this woman, but then he didn't know why he wouldn't either. Dagger in hand, the assassin crawled out of the cave and found his own place behind a particularly large boulder on the opposite side of the road. He watched while the woman climbed to her position and hid.
The sky had a morning glow, but the sun had not yet risen. There was still enough darkness to make Azyrek feel comfortable in his work. Azyrek and his new partner didn't wait for more than a half hour before a lone figure appeared on the main road. He looked up to the dunmer woman; she had seen him too, and was smart enough to hold fire. The halfblood continued to scan the mountainside, and spotted another nosing around in the woods for clues. The tracker was talented; Azyrek had almost not seen him.
At least three. he reminded himself. He heard a bird call then, and his eyes went up to the outcropping. He saw a hand point quickly at the boulder and disappear again. Thinking quickly, he knew where the third was. He and his opponent were on opposite sides of the rock, each unaware of each other. He was especially glad for his ally just then.
How did I not hear it? he asked himself as he crept along the side. He took a deep breath before swinging around. Azyrek used one hand to cover the mer's mouth and the other to stab him in the gut. His target's eyes barely had time to widen before his body collapsed.
At that same moment, Azyrek saw the figure on the road fall backwards, an arrow sticking from his neck. He glanced back into the wood, but the other one had disappeared. He looked back up towards his partner, who was standing now, giving a thumbs up.
Azyrek was scared now; all of their cover was gone. What was she doing?
"Where's the other one?" he shouted. It didn't matter at this point anyway.
Even from this distance, and in the relative darkness, he could tell that she was smiling as she called back, "He tried to come up behind me. He regretted it."
Azyrek walked out onto the road then, and the woman began descending the rock face.
"Takes care of that," she said cheerfully, all traces of her earlier anxiety gone.
"Mm." Azyrek grunted while he went back into the cave to gather his things. The last thing he wanted was to be caught camping around three dead bodies. With his heritage it could only cause problems.
"Thanks for helping me out...uh...what was your name? I'm Rinori," she said, following him inside.
"Azyrek," he answered.
She crinkled her nose, "Where in Oblivion that name come from?" she didn't wait for an answer, just kept talking, "So where are you headed?"
Azyrek couldn't help but snicker at her choice of words, but still answered shortly, "Morrowind."
"Me too!" she said, "I think we could help each other out. Especially since I've been this way before and we need to avoid roads now."
"No," he answered bluntly.
"Why? You some sort of criminal or something?" she demanded.
"Maybe,"
"Well I don't care. And what's with the hood? Show me your face."
Azyrek didn't really have time to answer, since Rinori had already come behind him and pulled his cowl off his head. He turned around, "Happy now?"
The woman was obviously shocked for a moment, but did well to recover, "I've befriended a dremora!"
Azyrek didn't know how to gauge her reaction, "Half. And no you haven't."
"Then why did you help me? You could have just avoided all this if you'd let me walk away..."
He didn't answer, he just shouldered his pack and crawled out of the cave. He couldn't have a tag-a-long while trying to work for the Brotherhood. Too many potential problems. At the same time, though, this was the first person outside of the sanctuary that wasn't bothered by his appearance.
"Hey! Don't just walk away from me!" she exclaimed, following him yet again. When he didn't slow down, she ran to catch up. "Well if I can't travel with you, I'll just follow you, okay?"
Azyrek sighed heavily, "Fine."
He was already moving during the day, which wasn't ideal, and now he had an annoying companion. At least she would make things look more normal should they encounter anyone.
Ah, fine work Dantrag. Nice to see this story continue--you are very skilled.
Danny my friend! What a thrilling update, I'm so glad you continue this great story, YAYY! But now I want more of course..much more
Chapter 2 - Exodus (continued)
"There it is," Rinori said, her arms spread wide as they looked down from the mountain, "Morrowind."
They'd been ascending and descending mountains for two days, as they were avoiding the road that cut through them. But this was the last real mountain they would have to climb. There was snow beneath their feet, but no evidence of the white powder on the ground ahead. In fact, he'd never seen terrain such as this before. The ground was reddish brown, and full of gorges and canyons and flat-topped rock structures. There was a visible fortress too, but to their left and much closer, seated snugly in the valley between the mountain they stood on and the one adjacent. If they'd taken the main road, they would have been forced to walk through its gates.
"That's Kragenmoor," she said, seeing that Azyrek was looking at the stronghold, "Big Redoran city."
Azyrek had heard of House Redoran; full of warriors with a strong sense of honor. He knew he didn't need to be in a city full of people with that specific kind of honor.
She kept talking, "We should go in; I need to sit by a fireplace and thaw out."
"Go ahead. I'm going to walk down this mountain and pass right by."
Azyrek noticed something strange about Rinori then. It was only for a second, but her expression changed when he said that, as if she were deep in thought. It went away as quickly as it came.
"Well...where are you headed?"
"East," he replied, knowing that it wouldn't be enough for her. He tried anyway.
"So cryptic all the time," she said in an exasperated tone, more to herself than him, "I've been walking long enough to know which direction we're going. I was looking for something a little more specific...?"
"Why does it matter?"
"Because I have to stop in Kragenmoor," she pointed at the fortress below, "And since you won't, I'll try to find you later."
"What's in Kragenmoor?"
She laughed, "Whose the one asking questions, here?"
"Well?"
"Well what? I have business there. Now are you going to tell me where you're going or not?"
Azyrek shook his head smiling and started walking down the slope. He really did enjoy the company, and if circumstances were different, he could see himself going to Kragenmoor with Rinori. But things were as they were, and Azyrek had enough on his mind without her to worry about. No other footsteps crunched in the snow but his, and he knew that she wasn't following this time.
"I'm going to look to find out what happened to my friend!" Rinori called down, answering his earlier question.
Azyrek stopped and looked back, "I'm going to Mournhold!" He had no idea why he said this.
"Don't try to cross the badlands by yourself!" she yelled, "You'll probably die of thirst. Go south first to Andrethis. You'll be able to get transport from there!"
And with a wave, they parted ways. Rinori headed north towards Kragenmoor, and Azyrek veered south, taking her advice.
"There it is," Rinori said, her arms spread wide as they looked down from the mountain, "Morrowind."
They'd been ascending and descending mountains for two days, as they were avoiding the road that cut through them. But this was the last real mountain they would have to climb. There was snow beneath their feet, but no evidence of the white powder on the ground ahead. In fact, he'd never seen terrain such as this before. The ground was reddish brown, and full of gorges and canyons and flat-topped rock structures. There was a visible fortress too, but to their left and much closer, seated snugly in the valley between the mountain they stood on and the one adjacent. If they'd taken the main road, they would have been forced to walk through its gates.
"That's Kragenmoor," she said, seeing that Azyrek was looking at the stronghold, "Big Redoran city."
Azyrek had heard of House Redoran; full of warriors with a strong sense of honor. He knew he didn't need to be in a city full of people with that specific kind of honor.
She kept talking, "We should go in; I need to sit by a fireplace and thaw out."
"Go ahead. I'm going to walk down this mountain and pass right by."
Azyrek noticed something strange about Rinori then. It was only for a second, but her expression changed when he said that, as if she were deep in thought. It went away as quickly as it came.
"Well...where are you headed?"
"East," he replied, knowing that it wouldn't be enough for her. He tried anyway.
"So cryptic all the time," she said in an exasperated tone, more to herself than him, "I've been walking long enough to know which direction we're going. I was looking for something a little more specific...?"
"Why does it matter?"
"Because I have to stop in Kragenmoor," she pointed at the fortress below, "And since you won't, I'll try to find you later."
"What's in Kragenmoor?"
She laughed, "Whose the one asking questions, here?"
"Well?"
"Well what? I have business there. Now are you going to tell me where you're going or not?"
Azyrek shook his head smiling and started walking down the slope. He really did enjoy the company, and if circumstances were different, he could see himself going to Kragenmoor with Rinori. But things were as they were, and Azyrek had enough on his mind without her to worry about. No other footsteps crunched in the snow but his, and he knew that she wasn't following this time.
"I'm going to look to find out what happened to my friend!" Rinori called down, answering his earlier question.
Azyrek stopped and looked back, "I'm going to Mournhold!" He had no idea why he said this.
"Don't try to cross the badlands by yourself!" she yelled, "You'll probably die of thirst. Go south first to Andrethis. You'll be able to get transport from there!"
And with a wave, they parted ways. Rinori headed north towards Kragenmoor, and Azyrek veered south, taking her advice.
Well this is an intesting one, and no mistake. Believe me, I'll be watching this.
And didn't Renori say "by Mephala," at one point, and mention her partner had been killed? Hmm, I smell a rat...
I like it Danny, and I'll definitely be following this.
And didn't Renori say "by Mephala," at one point, and mention her partner had been killed? Hmm, I smell a rat...
I like it Danny, and I'll definitely be following this.
Yep, I'm keeping a close watch on this...very well written, Danny....more please?
Awesome this is still going. I like it, its fresh, fast and well written. Really different from most of the stuff here (not to say that most of the stuff here isn't good - it is, but nothing is at all like this).
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor
Finally home, Rinori thought as she strode through the enormous gates and wandered confidently down a maze of roads that led a small, poor neighborhood. She knew this city better than anyone, having grown up here and delivering letters for House Redoran as a child. Now, though, her loyalties no longer sat with any House. She stopped at the end of a narrow cobblestone road. A single lantern was lit, hanging next to the crookedly-hung door of a small tavern. Its name was the Brown Beggar, as noted by the whitewash letters on the wall. Rinori was glad that the second lantern did not burn; it meant that she had come at the right time to get answers. Stepping through the door immediately got a reaction.
"Rinori!" the barkeep said in surprise, "You made it back! Hurry, let Venyn know you're here. He's worried sick."
She shook her head, "You tell him; I have to talk to Ornos first."
"You know where to go."
Ornos had a permanent room in the place, but was rarely in it. He was an old dunmer who made a living as a fortune teller, traveling often. Most people abroad thought him a hoax, but the people of Kragenmoor knew better. He was odd, yes, but he was also a worshipper of Hermaeus Mora and could see glimpses of the past and future. Rinori knocked on his door three times and waited. A few seconds passed and the old seer appeared at the door. He wore a drab green robe, fur moccassins, and carried a short walking stick. His body looked thin and frail, but he was strangely surefooted and had the grip of an ogrim. The mer never hesitated to grab and ear and pull.
"Ornos," she said sweetly, "How nice to see you. I saw one lantern wasn't lit and thought I'd stop in."
"You need to speak with Venyn."
"No, I need to talk to you. Something terrible has happened."
"You didn't take my advice," he said, ignoring the fact that she'd spoken, "On the mountain."
She paused; sometimes the things he knew scared her, "I know," she answered after a time, "I had to make a choice, and based on the circumstances, I think I made the right one."
The old mer shook his bald head, "Why did I interpret your dreams in the first place if you aren't going to act on them?"
"Because Gils is dead," she said, "That's why I'm here."
Ornos smiled, but it was a compassionate one, "Gils knew he was going to die, and I knew he was going to die. Venyn did not. Venyn has no respect for our traditions. I told Gils what to do, and I told you what to do. Only half of the task was completed. Why did you come back, little one? Why do you not spin the web as you are told? Now it may all unravel at our feet."
Rinori knew that Ornos was in a trance right now. He spoke, looked, and acted differently when he was.
"I...don't know," she answered, lowering her head.
"You knew what to do when you saw the face from your dreams, but you chose to come back. You failed me, and Gils fell for nothing."
"What did Gils have to do with this?"
"Go speak with Venyn. You've chosen to abandon my help. Now our enemy is loose."
Rinori left the room, slamming the door behind her. She was angry. Angry at Ornos, angry at Venyn, angry at Gils, and angry at her own confusion. Here she was in the middle of everything, and nobody told her anything. She stormed down the hallway until she reached the closet at the end. A quick key turn opened the closet door, and that same key opened a floor hatch to the basement below.
I'll speak with Venyn, then, maybe he has a few answers.
Venyn was waiting for her. He was a young dunmer, though a few years older than Rinori. The youngest Master in the history of the guild in fact, and probably the most thickheaded. Venyn held little regard for Ornos' mumblings, despite his longtime history of serving the guild, and the two often butted heads. Rinori thought that maybe this time their quarrels went too far.
"What happened?" was the first thing Venyn asked, "Where's Gils?"
Rinori took a deep breath, hardly knowing where to start, "It was a complete failure. We got to the city and everything was going smoothly. We tracked down Llether Salam and found out where he was staying. The night before we planned to strike, Gils went missing. I looked everywhere for him, and didn't find out until the next day that someone had been killed in the Tiber Septim Hotel--that's where Salam was."
"So Gils succeeded?"
Rinori shook her head, "I thought the same, but when I got a look at the body, it was Gils'."
Venyn scratched his head and sighed heavily, "And you don't know where Salam went?"
She shook her head, "I think he was being protected by the Brotherhood. Not long after I started asking about Gils and Salam, I noticed that I was being followed. So then I left town and started the return trip. I was followed as far as the mountains, but left them dead there."
"You talked to Ornos. What did he say?"
"A whole lot of nothing."
"Typical. I don't see how the Morag Tong finds use for the ramblings of crazy old fools."
Finally home, Rinori thought as she strode through the enormous gates and wandered confidently down a maze of roads that led a small, poor neighborhood. She knew this city better than anyone, having grown up here and delivering letters for House Redoran as a child. Now, though, her loyalties no longer sat with any House. She stopped at the end of a narrow cobblestone road. A single lantern was lit, hanging next to the crookedly-hung door of a small tavern. Its name was the Brown Beggar, as noted by the whitewash letters on the wall. Rinori was glad that the second lantern did not burn; it meant that she had come at the right time to get answers. Stepping through the door immediately got a reaction.
"Rinori!" the barkeep said in surprise, "You made it back! Hurry, let Venyn know you're here. He's worried sick."
She shook her head, "You tell him; I have to talk to Ornos first."
"You know where to go."
Ornos had a permanent room in the place, but was rarely in it. He was an old dunmer who made a living as a fortune teller, traveling often. Most people abroad thought him a hoax, but the people of Kragenmoor knew better. He was odd, yes, but he was also a worshipper of Hermaeus Mora and could see glimpses of the past and future. Rinori knocked on his door three times and waited. A few seconds passed and the old seer appeared at the door. He wore a drab green robe, fur moccassins, and carried a short walking stick. His body looked thin and frail, but he was strangely surefooted and had the grip of an ogrim. The mer never hesitated to grab and ear and pull.
"Ornos," she said sweetly, "How nice to see you. I saw one lantern wasn't lit and thought I'd stop in."
"You need to speak with Venyn."
"No, I need to talk to you. Something terrible has happened."
"You didn't take my advice," he said, ignoring the fact that she'd spoken, "On the mountain."
She paused; sometimes the things he knew scared her, "I know," she answered after a time, "I had to make a choice, and based on the circumstances, I think I made the right one."
The old mer shook his bald head, "Why did I interpret your dreams in the first place if you aren't going to act on them?"
"Because Gils is dead," she said, "That's why I'm here."
Ornos smiled, but it was a compassionate one, "Gils knew he was going to die, and I knew he was going to die. Venyn did not. Venyn has no respect for our traditions. I told Gils what to do, and I told you what to do. Only half of the task was completed. Why did you come back, little one? Why do you not spin the web as you are told? Now it may all unravel at our feet."
Rinori knew that Ornos was in a trance right now. He spoke, looked, and acted differently when he was.
"I...don't know," she answered, lowering her head.
"You knew what to do when you saw the face from your dreams, but you chose to come back. You failed me, and Gils fell for nothing."
"What did Gils have to do with this?"
"Go speak with Venyn. You've chosen to abandon my help. Now our enemy is loose."
Rinori left the room, slamming the door behind her. She was angry. Angry at Ornos, angry at Venyn, angry at Gils, and angry at her own confusion. Here she was in the middle of everything, and nobody told her anything. She stormed down the hallway until she reached the closet at the end. A quick key turn opened the closet door, and that same key opened a floor hatch to the basement below.
I'll speak with Venyn, then, maybe he has a few answers.
Venyn was waiting for her. He was a young dunmer, though a few years older than Rinori. The youngest Master in the history of the guild in fact, and probably the most thickheaded. Venyn held little regard for Ornos' mumblings, despite his longtime history of serving the guild, and the two often butted heads. Rinori thought that maybe this time their quarrels went too far.
"What happened?" was the first thing Venyn asked, "Where's Gils?"
Rinori took a deep breath, hardly knowing where to start, "It was a complete failure. We got to the city and everything was going smoothly. We tracked down Llether Salam and found out where he was staying. The night before we planned to strike, Gils went missing. I looked everywhere for him, and didn't find out until the next day that someone had been killed in the Tiber Septim Hotel--that's where Salam was."
"So Gils succeeded?"
Rinori shook her head, "I thought the same, but when I got a look at the body, it was Gils'."
Venyn scratched his head and sighed heavily, "And you don't know where Salam went?"
She shook her head, "I think he was being protected by the Brotherhood. Not long after I started asking about Gils and Salam, I noticed that I was being followed. So then I left town and started the return trip. I was followed as far as the mountains, but left them dead there."
"You talked to Ornos. What did he say?"
"A whole lot of nothing."
"Typical. I don't see how the Morag Tong finds use for the ramblings of crazy old fools."
Aha, I knew she was Morag Tong. I knew it!
I like the seer too. It's nice to have a crazy guy in organisations who throws a spanner in the works through dint of their sheer wierdness. Nice one.
I like the seer too. It's nice to have a crazy guy in organisations who throws a spanner in the works through dint of their sheer wierdness. Nice one.
Wow very nicely brought round to that twist. I like how you left us little clues in the story but subtle enough not too let us catch on too soon. Keep it up, this is great 
.
.
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor (continued)
"Ow!" Rinori protested as a servant girl harshly brushed the knots from her hair, "Is all this really necessary?"
"You're going to a ball," Venyn answered without the slightest hint of compassion, "Of course it's necessary."
"Well, I didn't ask for this writ, now did I?"
"Well it's yours, and you're going to be a pretty little Redoran noblewoman for a night."
Rinori sighed, but it was cut short by a wince as another knot was viciously pulled out. Venyn laughed and exited the room. A few long minutes later, her hair was done, but there was still more work to do. Or rather, for the servant to do while Rinori sat stupidly. Over the next few hours, her face was painted, her arms and ears were adorned with jewelry, and she was put in the most uncomfortable and utterly flamboyant dress she could have imagined.
"You'd think a dress this big would be less tight," she said to the servant.
"You'd think a girl this big would be less whiny," the servant retorted.
She had no answer for that, so sat back and sulked silently while the rest of the preparations were finished.
"All done," the servant announced, holding up a small mirror in front of Rinori, "What do you think?"
She had no time to reply, as Venyn returned just then to see the progress. "She didn't give you too much trouble did she?" he asked the servant.
The girl smiled mischievously, "She was an angel,"
Rinori glared at the girl, not amused at all by being referred to in the third person while sitting right there. "So when does this ball start, Venyn?"
Before Venyn could answer, another figure entered the room, an old, thin, balding man leaning on his walking stick. He looked to both Venyn and the servant girl.
"Leave," was all he said to them. Ornos rarely said more than two words to Venyn. The fire was evident in Venyn's eyes, but he wouldn't dare cross the old seer. Both obliged without a word.
"And close the door," the old mer added. Again, he was obeyed without question. Rinori hated being caught in the middle of those two's feud, and it was becoming almost a daily occurrence.
"Rinori," Ornos began, "I judged too soon the other night, and I am sorry."
Rinori raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"
"I mean that I understand what you did, now. All I saw that night in my visions was what you didn't do, not what you did. You sent him south, to Andrethis. Tell me why."
"Well...I...um..." she hesitated, "I know you told me to keep an eye on him, but I had to report the matter of Gils. I know he hasn't made it to Andrethis yet, and I planned on beating him to Mournhold, where he said he was going."
Ornos eyed her suspiciously, "What else?"
"Nothing." Her answer did nothing to cure that look in Ornos' eyes. She thought she might melt under that gaze.
"You're keeping something from me."
Now it was Rinori's turn to take the upper hand, so she answered with a smug grin, "How does it feel?"
Ornos smiled in amusement, "Fair enough, girl. Fair enough. You did well, despite what I said earlier; the web can still be spun, it will merely have a different weave. When your responsibility to Venyn is complete tonight, return to me. You have a new assignment."
Ornos left, and Rinori could see through the open doorway that Venyn was waiting patiently outside. She rolled her eyes when the two passed each other without a word or a glance.
"Your nobleman will be ready for his last dance soon," Venyn announced as he reentered, "I hope you'll be a good partner."
"Ow!" Rinori protested as a servant girl harshly brushed the knots from her hair, "Is all this really necessary?"
"You're going to a ball," Venyn answered without the slightest hint of compassion, "Of course it's necessary."
"Well, I didn't ask for this writ, now did I?"
"Well it's yours, and you're going to be a pretty little Redoran noblewoman for a night."
Rinori sighed, but it was cut short by a wince as another knot was viciously pulled out. Venyn laughed and exited the room. A few long minutes later, her hair was done, but there was still more work to do. Or rather, for the servant to do while Rinori sat stupidly. Over the next few hours, her face was painted, her arms and ears were adorned with jewelry, and she was put in the most uncomfortable and utterly flamboyant dress she could have imagined.
"You'd think a dress this big would be less tight," she said to the servant.
"You'd think a girl this big would be less whiny," the servant retorted.
She had no answer for that, so sat back and sulked silently while the rest of the preparations were finished.
"All done," the servant announced, holding up a small mirror in front of Rinori, "What do you think?"
She had no time to reply, as Venyn returned just then to see the progress. "She didn't give you too much trouble did she?" he asked the servant.
The girl smiled mischievously, "She was an angel,"
Rinori glared at the girl, not amused at all by being referred to in the third person while sitting right there. "So when does this ball start, Venyn?"
Before Venyn could answer, another figure entered the room, an old, thin, balding man leaning on his walking stick. He looked to both Venyn and the servant girl.
"Leave," was all he said to them. Ornos rarely said more than two words to Venyn. The fire was evident in Venyn's eyes, but he wouldn't dare cross the old seer. Both obliged without a word.
"And close the door," the old mer added. Again, he was obeyed without question. Rinori hated being caught in the middle of those two's feud, and it was becoming almost a daily occurrence.
"Rinori," Ornos began, "I judged too soon the other night, and I am sorry."
Rinori raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"
"I mean that I understand what you did, now. All I saw that night in my visions was what you didn't do, not what you did. You sent him south, to Andrethis. Tell me why."
"Well...I...um..." she hesitated, "I know you told me to keep an eye on him, but I had to report the matter of Gils. I know he hasn't made it to Andrethis yet, and I planned on beating him to Mournhold, where he said he was going."
Ornos eyed her suspiciously, "What else?"
"Nothing." Her answer did nothing to cure that look in Ornos' eyes. She thought she might melt under that gaze.
"You're keeping something from me."
Now it was Rinori's turn to take the upper hand, so she answered with a smug grin, "How does it feel?"
Ornos smiled in amusement, "Fair enough, girl. Fair enough. You did well, despite what I said earlier; the web can still be spun, it will merely have a different weave. When your responsibility to Venyn is complete tonight, return to me. You have a new assignment."
Ornos left, and Rinori could see through the open doorway that Venyn was waiting patiently outside. She rolled her eyes when the two passed each other without a word or a glance.
"Your nobleman will be ready for his last dance soon," Venyn announced as he reentered, "I hope you'll be a good partner."
Ha...excellent! I'm glad to see another update on this one...Very well written, I like it, I certainly do.
S.G.M
S.G.M
Very nice work.
I did a bunch of writing recently, so the next few updates will be a little faster coming, since they're done!
and minque, I'm curious (and maybe behind on internet lingo) - what is s.g.m?
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor (continued)
Rinori had been well briefed by Venyn. The ball was actually a kind of test for a young Redoran noble named Tredyn who was now of age to marry. He was going to play the part of a suitor, and choose a woman to woo. She wasn't too excited about having to play the coy maiden to this mer, especially in light of recent events, but it did help that she was only killing him afterward.
The manor was absolutely extravagant. The rugs she walked on were beautifully woven, showing scenes of historic battles, portraits of saints and warriors, or simply pleasing patterns of masterful thread work. The ceiling above was high and dome-shaped, and made of the same green glass commonly used for armor and weapons. She wished that the sun was shining, so she could witness the green glow that would undoubtedly cover the room. Rinori suddenly realized that she was only in the foyer.
"Master Tredyn welcomes you. Right this way," her escort informed her, offering his arm. She took it and allowed herself to be brought into the ballroom.
Rinori tried not to look too impressed, since she was here with a purpose, but she was not used to such lavishness. During her own years with House Redoran, she was a simple messenger and usually stood outside noblemen's homes. Her place had been in the fortress or on the roads.
A pair of large, ornate doors were opened for her, revealing the ballroom. It did not disappoint. It was rectangular, and much longer than it was wide, but no aspect of the room could be considered small. Hanging on the walls were tapestries that rivaled the rugs she'd seen earlier, and in the center of the floor was a mosaic depicting the seal of House Redoran. Not only was this a ball, she realized, but a banquet. The smell of slow-roasted venison found its way into her nostrils, along with the other foods that she could not name, but now desperately wanted to taste. Alongside the two longer walls were tables completely covered in food, drink, and ice sculptures. At the back of the room sat a group of musicians playing soft yet merry tunes. There were even parts of the room that were equipped with cushions to sit on, though Rinori couldn't imagine trying to sit so close to the floor in the dress she was wearing.
"Would you like a drink, m'lady?" a strange voice asked.
Rinori snapped back to reality, and was surprised to learn that the escort had left her already, and that this servant had asked her the same question twice already.
"Yes, please," she answered. There was an awkward silence.
"What exactly would you like, m'lady?"
"Oh!" she said quickly, catching on, "I would like..." she paused, trying to think of an expensive drink.
"Tell you what," she finally said, "I'll have a glass of your finest wine."
The servant hurried off, and Rinori finally got the chance to survey her surroundings in peace. Strangely, there was no one yet dancing at this ball, though there were many people. She was trying to spot her target, but was unsure of which young dunmer it might be. Just as the servant returned with her wine, her question seemed to answer itself.
The music stopped, the guests went silent, and all eyes were suddenly on the doors. In walked Tredyn, clad in an embroidered and jewel-laden red robe. He was flanked on each side by a pair of tough-looking guards in bonemold armor carrying spears. Tredyn himself had a sword at his side, though it seemed to be more of a ceremonial blade than one for actual combat. Still, though, Rinori expected a member of House Redoran to be familiar with swordplay. She would be careful.
Her eyes locked with Tredyn's then, and he gave her a playful wink. She smiled back and took a dainty sip of wine.
This might be easier than I thought...
and minque, I'm curious (and maybe behind on internet lingo) - what is s.g.m?
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor (continued)
Rinori had been well briefed by Venyn. The ball was actually a kind of test for a young Redoran noble named Tredyn who was now of age to marry. He was going to play the part of a suitor, and choose a woman to woo. She wasn't too excited about having to play the coy maiden to this mer, especially in light of recent events, but it did help that she was only killing him afterward.
The manor was absolutely extravagant. The rugs she walked on were beautifully woven, showing scenes of historic battles, portraits of saints and warriors, or simply pleasing patterns of masterful thread work. The ceiling above was high and dome-shaped, and made of the same green glass commonly used for armor and weapons. She wished that the sun was shining, so she could witness the green glow that would undoubtedly cover the room. Rinori suddenly realized that she was only in the foyer.
"Master Tredyn welcomes you. Right this way," her escort informed her, offering his arm. She took it and allowed herself to be brought into the ballroom.
Rinori tried not to look too impressed, since she was here with a purpose, but she was not used to such lavishness. During her own years with House Redoran, she was a simple messenger and usually stood outside noblemen's homes. Her place had been in the fortress or on the roads.
A pair of large, ornate doors were opened for her, revealing the ballroom. It did not disappoint. It was rectangular, and much longer than it was wide, but no aspect of the room could be considered small. Hanging on the walls were tapestries that rivaled the rugs she'd seen earlier, and in the center of the floor was a mosaic depicting the seal of House Redoran. Not only was this a ball, she realized, but a banquet. The smell of slow-roasted venison found its way into her nostrils, along with the other foods that she could not name, but now desperately wanted to taste. Alongside the two longer walls were tables completely covered in food, drink, and ice sculptures. At the back of the room sat a group of musicians playing soft yet merry tunes. There were even parts of the room that were equipped with cushions to sit on, though Rinori couldn't imagine trying to sit so close to the floor in the dress she was wearing.
"Would you like a drink, m'lady?" a strange voice asked.
Rinori snapped back to reality, and was surprised to learn that the escort had left her already, and that this servant had asked her the same question twice already.
"Yes, please," she answered. There was an awkward silence.
"What exactly would you like, m'lady?"
"Oh!" she said quickly, catching on, "I would like..." she paused, trying to think of an expensive drink.
"Tell you what," she finally said, "I'll have a glass of your finest wine."
The servant hurried off, and Rinori finally got the chance to survey her surroundings in peace. Strangely, there was no one yet dancing at this ball, though there were many people. She was trying to spot her target, but was unsure of which young dunmer it might be. Just as the servant returned with her wine, her question seemed to answer itself.
The music stopped, the guests went silent, and all eyes were suddenly on the doors. In walked Tredyn, clad in an embroidered and jewel-laden red robe. He was flanked on each side by a pair of tough-looking guards in bonemold armor carrying spears. Tredyn himself had a sword at his side, though it seemed to be more of a ceremonial blade than one for actual combat. Still, though, Rinori expected a member of House Redoran to be familiar with swordplay. She would be careful.
Her eyes locked with Tredyn's then, and he gave her a playful wink. She smiled back and took a dainty sip of wine.
This might be easier than I thought...
hehe Danny.....you did it again! Excellent writing!
And S.G.M means : Story.Good.More, is a proverb by treydog, long ago (It's kinda what a big brute Nord would say!
And S.G.M means : Story.Good.More, is a proverb by treydog, long ago (It's kinda what a big brute Nord would say!
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor (continued)
The music started up again, but this time it was more upbeat. The party had officially begun. Rinori stood in the same place, sipping wine while the other guests made their way to the dance floor. Tredyn was one of them, though he was having a hard time getting there. It seemed that every person he passed had to get a few words in, and he politely engaged each one in short conversation. His guards stood by the door, giving him space, but ever vigilant.
Rinori quickly finished her wine, set the glass down, and joined the dance. She did enjoy herself, prancing around, switching partners, and smiling all the while. She actually forgot about her duties for the next few minutes.
That is, until she locked arms with her newest partner. In the middle of spinning around in the style of the dance, the song ended. The guests applauded, and Rinori clapped along with them.
"I don't believe we've met before," Tredyn said with a bow, "My name is Tredyn,"
"I know," she answered shyly with a quick curtsy, "I'm Avani,"
Tredyn was taken aback for a moment. Avani was the name of a very sheltered and rarely seen Redoran noble from Blacklight. Her father was a Councilor known for keeping her locked away safely inside her home. It was a perfect cover story for an assassination.
"Surprised?" she asked.
"Well, it's just that Councilor Baram, well, he declined all of my invitations."
"I did send a letter after all that," she said apologetically, "But I see you never recieved it. My mother convinced him to let me come a bit late, I'm afraid."
"Well I'm certainly glad she did," he said with another of his disarming smiles. The musicians began playing another tune, "May I have this dance?"
"Of course!"
As they danced, the wrongness of all this struck her. Here she was, acting as if she was interested in romance, all the while planning a murder. And this poor mer was none the wiser. Simple stealth killings were one thing, but this sort of deception left a bitter taste in her mouth and a tight knot in her stomach. She took a deep breath.
You have a responsibility, Rinori, but after this, never again.
"You know, Avani," Tredyn said to her, "I think you're the most beautiful girl here."
Rinori blushed in embarrassment and her eyes went to the floor out of guilt. She hoped it was mistaken for shyness. She was by no means falling for him, but her conscience continued to gnaw away.
"I mean it," he said, lifting her chin so that her eyes met his. This was it. This was her chance, and she hated it.
"I'm sorry," she said. Tredyn's expression changed from confusion to shock as a dagger pierced his heart.
Never again.
Tredyn's body fell to the floor. Rinori bent down and closed his eyelids; that blank stare went right through to her soul. The guards were pushing through the crowd towards the body. She placed the writ on Tredyn's chest and left the manor as fast as she could, tearing off jewelry as she went. She knew that nobody would chase her, since what she had done was perfectly legal. Legal didn't make it right, though, she knew, and wanted to get as far away as possible.
She was glad at least that she would be working for Ornos after this. Venyn pushed the limit too far this time.
The music started up again, but this time it was more upbeat. The party had officially begun. Rinori stood in the same place, sipping wine while the other guests made their way to the dance floor. Tredyn was one of them, though he was having a hard time getting there. It seemed that every person he passed had to get a few words in, and he politely engaged each one in short conversation. His guards stood by the door, giving him space, but ever vigilant.
Rinori quickly finished her wine, set the glass down, and joined the dance. She did enjoy herself, prancing around, switching partners, and smiling all the while. She actually forgot about her duties for the next few minutes.
That is, until she locked arms with her newest partner. In the middle of spinning around in the style of the dance, the song ended. The guests applauded, and Rinori clapped along with them.
"I don't believe we've met before," Tredyn said with a bow, "My name is Tredyn,"
"I know," she answered shyly with a quick curtsy, "I'm Avani,"
Tredyn was taken aback for a moment. Avani was the name of a very sheltered and rarely seen Redoran noble from Blacklight. Her father was a Councilor known for keeping her locked away safely inside her home. It was a perfect cover story for an assassination.
"Surprised?" she asked.
"Well, it's just that Councilor Baram, well, he declined all of my invitations."
"I did send a letter after all that," she said apologetically, "But I see you never recieved it. My mother convinced him to let me come a bit late, I'm afraid."
"Well I'm certainly glad she did," he said with another of his disarming smiles. The musicians began playing another tune, "May I have this dance?"
"Of course!"
As they danced, the wrongness of all this struck her. Here she was, acting as if she was interested in romance, all the while planning a murder. And this poor mer was none the wiser. Simple stealth killings were one thing, but this sort of deception left a bitter taste in her mouth and a tight knot in her stomach. She took a deep breath.
You have a responsibility, Rinori, but after this, never again.
"You know, Avani," Tredyn said to her, "I think you're the most beautiful girl here."
Rinori blushed in embarrassment and her eyes went to the floor out of guilt. She hoped it was mistaken for shyness. She was by no means falling for him, but her conscience continued to gnaw away.
"I mean it," he said, lifting her chin so that her eyes met his. This was it. This was her chance, and she hated it.
"I'm sorry," she said. Tredyn's expression changed from confusion to shock as a dagger pierced his heart.
Never again.
Tredyn's body fell to the floor. Rinori bent down and closed his eyelids; that blank stare went right through to her soul. The guards were pushing through the crowd towards the body. She placed the writ on Tredyn's chest and left the manor as fast as she could, tearing off jewelry as she went. She knew that nobody would chase her, since what she had done was perfectly legal. Legal didn't make it right, though, she knew, and wanted to get as far away as possible.
She was glad at least that she would be working for Ornos after this. Venyn pushed the limit too far this time.
Fantastic work!
Uhhhh yikes...MT-ladies are not to be trusted. But I do like the fact that Rinori isn't all that happy about killing...hmm reminds me a bit of another MT assassin...
Anyway Danny, great work!
Anyway Danny, great work!
Chapter 3 - Kragenmoor (continued)
"What's wrong?" Venyn seeing Rinori's pale face on her return, "Did all go well?"
"That kind of work is for the Brotherhood," Rinori spat at him angrily, "Never. Ever. Ever do that to me again. Ever! Do you have any idea, any clue as to what I've done?"
"You completed your writ, as instructed by your Master, I assume," Venyn replied, not understanding, "As you've done for years."
"No," she said, "This was different. This was...perverse,"
She went about washing the paint from her face and the blood from her hands. The latter would never go away, but she kept scrubbing nonetheless.
"I don't see how-"
"Get out!" she screamed at him. Venyn left her then, with nothing but her reflection in the mirror. She pulled the thing off the wall and smashed it on the floor. Struggling to get out of the dress, she found it was too complex to remove by herself. Her dagger began making short work of it.
"Calm, child," she heard Ornos say from behind. She hadn't noticed him coming in before, "You're solving nothing right now,"
She turned to face the seer for a second, only to continue shredding the dress that seemed to trap her.
"Stop," he said, more forcefully this time, "Have you ever thought that maybe this happened for a reason?"
Rinori did stop, and a look of sudden realization crossed her face, "You knew, didn't you? You knew!" She pointed an accusatory finger at Ornos.
The old mer didn't deny it, "I had to let you make this mistake. I can't tell you why, because I don't yet know. But please understand that I had to. Come find me in the morning. We have work to do."
"I won't be able to sleep tonight," she said, "Let's start now so I can get my mind off things." She wanted nothing more than to leave Kragenmoor.
"That's just it," Ornos answered, "I want your mind on things. Think. Meet me in the morning."
So he left Rinori with her shattered mirror, torn dress, and dark thoughts.
"What's wrong?" Venyn seeing Rinori's pale face on her return, "Did all go well?"
"That kind of work is for the Brotherhood," Rinori spat at him angrily, "Never. Ever. Ever do that to me again. Ever! Do you have any idea, any clue as to what I've done?"
"You completed your writ, as instructed by your Master, I assume," Venyn replied, not understanding, "As you've done for years."
"No," she said, "This was different. This was...perverse,"
She went about washing the paint from her face and the blood from her hands. The latter would never go away, but she kept scrubbing nonetheless.
"I don't see how-"
"Get out!" she screamed at him. Venyn left her then, with nothing but her reflection in the mirror. She pulled the thing off the wall and smashed it on the floor. Struggling to get out of the dress, she found it was too complex to remove by herself. Her dagger began making short work of it.
"Calm, child," she heard Ornos say from behind. She hadn't noticed him coming in before, "You're solving nothing right now,"
She turned to face the seer for a second, only to continue shredding the dress that seemed to trap her.
"Stop," he said, more forcefully this time, "Have you ever thought that maybe this happened for a reason?"
Rinori did stop, and a look of sudden realization crossed her face, "You knew, didn't you? You knew!" She pointed an accusatory finger at Ornos.
The old mer didn't deny it, "I had to let you make this mistake. I can't tell you why, because I don't yet know. But please understand that I had to. Come find me in the morning. We have work to do."
"I won't be able to sleep tonight," she said, "Let's start now so I can get my mind off things." She wanted nothing more than to leave Kragenmoor.
"That's just it," Ornos answered, "I want your mind on things. Think. Meet me in the morning."
So he left Rinori with her shattered mirror, torn dress, and dark thoughts.
Man this is good. I could see this as a scene in a movie. A great scene.
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