Intro:

After 100 years, the Oblivion crisis is forgotten. Dagon was defeated and expelled back to his realm of destruction. Taking advantage of the rest of Cyrodil reeling from the scars Dagon left behind, the Imperial City grew stronger than ever. It conquered parts of Morrowind and the Black Marsh, and even went so far as to encroach on Elsweyr's forests. A tyrant has risen to the position of Emperor over the Empire, his strict rules and massive armies kept most people in line. He is a madman, but an excellent tactician and politic. The council is now strictly Imperials, so is every other government position. The counts have little to no power now, their citizens loyal to the Emperor rather than the counts. Anvil is the last bastion of defense against this tyranny, boats from Hammerfell and Valenwood reinforced Anvil with battleships and armies. The Emperor Konrad Von Houdernaus has laid siege to Anvil, his elite Legions the vanguard of his massive army. General Gerick leads this army, the Emperor making it his responsibility to take Anvil. Magic users are very scarce now, and most of the remaining ones are Imperial fanatics, devoting their lives to making the Emperor immortal, and keeping him safe from assassins. The Mages Guild has long since deteriorated, its many members either executed or forced into service to the Empire. The Fighters Guild is strong as ever, its ranks swelling. The Emperor is its Grandmaster. The Thieves guild is almost completely gone, the Gray Fox vanished, and most of the members were killed on the spot by the Emperor's feared Inquisitors. The Dark Brotherhood is taking refuge in the forests of Blackwood, Imperial Hunters vigilantly searching for the assassins. The Crimson Scars, with only 4 remaining members after the Dark Brotherhood massacre, stay inside Deepscorn praying to Sithis for change. The Argonian Tribes of the Black Marsh are banding together, and are slowly pushing out the Imperial garrisons there. Some Tribes have joined the Empire as mercenaries. The number of bandits and marauders has decreased substantially, and the beasts of the woods are all but extinct, save for roaming deer and smaller mammals. Vampire tribes have risen in their power, feeding deeply of the blood of Imperial garrisons in the forests. The more civilized Vampires have disguised themselves as Imperials and have risen through the ranks of the Empire. One is a trusted servant to the Emperor. The Blades are now known as Inquisitors, and they are trained in the arts of politics and are the personal police of the Emperor. Slave trade is now at large, some bandit warlords have grown stronger because of this.

You are working at an Imperial outpost to the east of Leyawiin. You are being hunted by Vampires, and start to doubt the Emperor, for he has left you to die in this desolate outpost. You choose your path, either stay a loyalist, or fight against this tyrant.

Do not post character sheet in this thread! If you want to join the RP post your sheet in the thread "A Tyrant Rises"

Rules:
1. No ubering
2. No character control
3. My word is law
4. Avoid one lining
5. Keep fighting realistic
6. You don't have to pm me, but put some effort into your character sheet please.
7. I will kill your character off if you continuously break the rules
8. I want detailed posts, not just dialogue.
The ninth and most important rule is have fun.

Chapter One: Grateful Dawn

Somewhere in the outpost, a man stirred in his sleep. His nightmares plagued him relentlessly. He saw his own flesh peeling off of his bones, the agonizing pain worse than anything the man had ever felt, his jaw snapped backwards due to forces unknown. A sword swung from nowhere, split him in two.

He awoke, blood dribbling down his neck. He screamed. Somewhere else in the outpost, the Captain awoke to the man screaming. He rushed into the room, too late to catch the culprit. The Captain looked pitifully at the man, his lifeblood now cascading down onto the floor. Ferman couldn't let the man live. Lest he Change into one of the beasts that hunted the small Imperial group.

"I.. I'm so sorry," uttered the Captain, who stabbed his sword through the dying man's heart. Yet another one dead. Somehow one of the bloodsvcking bastards had made it through their defenses. It wasn't uncommon for this to happen. The Vampire attacks had been more frequent lately, their bloodlust costing the vigilant Legion a heavy toll.

The Captain sat awake the rest of the night, slight paranoia started to take place, but was slashed away when dawn came. Ferrus nudged his second-in-command Ladin from his sleep.

"Be grateful, Lieutenant, we made it to dawn," he said to the awakening Argonian.

The black, vindictively seductive void that was Ladin's mind shuddered and dematerialized, slowly, the Argonian opened his eyes. It's morning already...?, he sluggishly stretched his limbs, his fingers and toes danced with life as he twiddled and bended them.

''Be grateful, Lieutenant, we made it to dawn''

Came the quiet voice of Ladin's Dunmer superior. The Lieutenant sat up in his wooden bed, rubbing the side of his head in a way some would think he was brushing away hair. ''Grateful...'' He said, standing from his bed and yawning.
''Being grateful isn't going to get us anywhere anymore, sir''. Not since the Marauder attacks, supply shortages, and not to mention those god damned vampires.... The argonian stood up, only inches away from his captain. Ladin stood a little bit shorter then Captain Farrus, since the Dunmer was a tell toned and well muscled man. It always made the lizard feel slightly nervous around him.

''Shall I begin the morning routine, sir?'' Ladin asked diligently, ''Surely we can't let the troops sleep in, well, whats left of the troops...'', Ladin tried to crack a smile but his natural blankless expression revealed only his sharp teeth. Another day, another septim....or in this case, a mans life...

ooc: I find it ironic how the leader of the outpost is a Dunmer and his second-in-command is an Argonian

"Yeah. Legionnaire Skellan got bit. I had to put 'em out. May his soul rest in peace, I only hope it wasn't too late to save him from damnation," said the weary Dunmer, who clutched his hip as he sidled down from the window ledge he had perched himself on. "Make sure his body gets taken care of.. In case I missed I don't want him to rise up and butcher all of us."

Ferman walked out of the room and into the makeshift barracks they had set up at the outpost, beckoning the Argonian to follow in and wake up the troopers. Manus took a swig of ale from one of the flasks, and tossed it to Ladin.

"Don't drink it all.. I'm saving it to wash down the sh*t we have to eat here," said Ferman, waking up a couple of light sleepers.

Salvius was oddly having a peaceful sleep, he was back home with his mother and father, seeing them for the very first time in ages. However these dreams of happiness were suddenly dispatched by a scream of ungodly terror, like a Banshee's howl. The Imperial was awoken straight away, he leaped out of the bed, grabbing his sword from under his bunk in the process. He didn't want to leave the bed, it was comfortable and was only dawn. Usually Salvius would be ashamed to be so lazy but with the ways of the Legion and Empire these days, it bothered him little. The Legionnaire could already hear footsteps, he crouched trying not to make a noise. It was always possible that a Vampire could be in the outpost, it has happened quite often. However once Salvius got to the source of the scream, he saw no Vampire, but a victim instead. It was a sight that no man would want to see, the face deformed and wrenched, looking more like a zombie then a fresh corpse. Salvius walked up to the carcass catiously. His knee was starting to ache, even though he had been nothing strenuous, the morning was always a painful time.

''By the Nine! Another attack? Damn it.'' Salvius shouted, banging on a desk as he did so. The Imperial then checked who the actually victim was. It was Legionnaire Skallen, one of the best soldiers in the platoon, but more importantly a great friend. Salvius shedded a small tear as he looked at his comrade. ''Rest in peace my friend, you'll always be remembered.'' With that, Salvius pulled the bed sheets over Skallen's face. The death of the Legionnaire was a clear sign that the attacks were only going to get more frequent, and that the group would have to move out pronto. Once again Salvius heared more footsteps, he turned sharply pointing his blade fowards. Thankfully it was only Captain Manus. A man who Salvius respected, he was charasmatic and fun. A person needed in the current dark and treacherous times. Amongst that he is a great leader.

''Captain!'' Salvius exclaimed to his superior as he walked towards him. ''I guess you know of Skallens fate. This is clear cut sign that we need to move out, and soon. Those... those hideous monsters will keep coming back until we're all dead!'' Salvius didn't want to seem like he was criticizing the Ferrus' tactics, but he needed to get his point across. ''What do you say?'' The Imperial was thinking of using his larger height to tower over the Captain and try to intimidate, but it was a silly idea really so he thought twice about it, and it wasn't the kind of thing Salvius would do anyway.

The Legionnaire couldn't stop getting angry about the Vampire attacks, rage was forming in his veins and he was about to burst. It was odd for Salvius to be like this, but the Vampires took it a step to far. If they ever get within any distance of me, I'll batter them to Oblivion. The Imperial thought, putting his fist into his palm, as he waited for the Captain to make a choice.

Ferman noticed Sal was up, and knew about Skellan, "Still your hand, Salvius. You know as well as I do we can't leave until the Grand Emperor orders it so. He is our master and he has led the Empire to great things. I know you don't respect him like I do, but be strong soldier. I'm going to makes sure we get out of this alive," soothed Ferman, squinting out of one of the windows. "Bastard vampires. Once we find their haven we shall show them who is superior once and for all."

The Captain patted Salvius on the shoulder and turned back to his second-in-command. Most of the soldiers were up now except a few heavier sleepers. "Sal I'm going to figure out a way to protect my men from the bloodsvckers if it's the last thing I do. I know I haven't done even an adequate job in this, but I intend to get this company in order today. I'll explain my plan once Ladin wakes up the rest of the force," he said to Sal, hoping his words would stay him from doing something drastic, such as mounting a mutiny.

Once Ferman was finished with Sal, he slapped the scout, William Forner, across the face. "Hey get up! I want you out early today, and I want some damned results! If we can't find these vampires soon I'm afraid my once loyal men might rebel! I know this sounds crazy but just do this for me.. I'll have the cook whip you up something fast before you head out," whispered the Captain into Will's ear as he woke.

The Captain may have been a little confused because of the whole situation, it certainly was not easy to try and be a leader with such horrible conditions, and Salvius accepted that. The responsibilty was one of the main reasons he never wanted to be in charge of men. If something goes wrong the blame is always placed on the Captain even if it wasn't his fault. However with that said Salvius was thinking that one day he may accept the offer to become a Sergeant, if only for the extra money needed.

''Still your hand, Salvius. You know as well as I do we can't leave until the Grand Emperor orders it so. He is our master and he has led the Empire to great things. I know you don't respect him like I do, but be strong soldier. I'm going to makes sure we get out of this alive." The Captain spoke to his Legionnaire.

''Sir I understand but with all due respect I don't think the Emperor is going to give us orders to leave. It's been a while and he hasn't given us aid or anything to help defend against the foul beasts. But still, I wil serve you 'till I die Captain, but never shall I pay tribute to that bastard of a man.'' Salvius spoke to Ferman, trying to sound calm, but whenever he mentioned the Emperor a hint of anger appeared in his voice.

The Captain mentioned something about them killing the Vampires when their hideout is found. Salvius didn't get the full sentance, he was to busy looking out the windows, seeing if there were any clues or signs of more Vampires. It appeared that Ferman was doing so also. However the Imperial found nothing, all that was in sight was damp, marshy and ugly forests. An undesirable place for a Legion member to be placed to say the least. Bloody Emperor, why won't the Nine just cast him to the void. Salvius thought, shaking his head in frustration. It was strange how this man became the Emperor, even though the Septims were gone the Divines would never just let it happen. But the Legionnaire saw no point debating it so himself, it would only strain his brain. Although he did find it odd why their 'esteemed' Emperor would place such an elite platoon in Blackwood. Did he just want to get them killed? Once again it confused him. Maybe the Emperor knew there were people who doubted him, or in Salvius' case, wanted to kill him. Suddenly the Imperial felt a soft pat on the back.

"Sal I'm going to figure out a way to protect my men from the bloodsvckers if it's the last thing I do. I know I haven't done even an adequate job in this, but I intend to get this company in order today. I'll explain my plan once Ladin wakes up the rest of the force."

''Sir, you've done a great job here, don't put yourself down. You have commanded these men well and kept them in line, you're doing fine Captain, you just haven't had any help.'' Salvius spoke to his Captain with soft words, trying to cheer it up. ''Well I guess we have to wake up some of those lazy buggers.'' He spoke with a chuckle, but it was mainly forced, he just wanted to at least try and cheer himself up. ''In the meantime I'm going to get me breakfast. Then get ready.'' With that Salvius saluted and walked to the dinning room.

The dinning room wasn't the nicest of places, neither was the food. But in these desperate times no-one was complaining. The food was luckily already laid out nice and neatly. Well that cook does do a sure fine job, Salvius thought as he licked his lips. He decided to go for a breakfast of ham, strawberries amd an apple. Healthy and would get him ready for the likely long day ahead. The Imperial really wanted to just run into the Vampires hideout and simply run them all through. Unfortunatly it would more than likely result in death, not the most tactical approach at all. But he let the Captain and Lieutenant decide what to do.

As Salvius slowly muched on his breakfast, he patiently awaited orders from his two superiors.

Ferrus shouted something to Sal as he left, "Salvius once you get geared up I want you to reinforce the windows in the barracks room.. Use anything you can get your hands on and holler if you need some help; I'm sure one of the men will help you out," he said, turning back to Ladin, waiting for him to announce what was going to happen today so that Ferman could take the floor.

He rested his hands on his swords, and his head against the hard stone wall. This was going to be a long day, but hopefully at the end of it the men would be able to sleep soundly.

William woke slowly and groaned, hearing the captains annoying voice always got on his nerves, but when he heard the talk of food he immediately sat up and hopped out of bed, pulling on his green burlap vest and slipping into his worn leather boots. He picked up his cloak and put it on, as it was only dawn and the morning was cold.
Will stretched and looked around, a few of the heavy sleepers were happily snuggled into their blankets. One of them looked like they were going to fall out of their bed, as their arm and leg was hanging over the side.
Will made his way to the mess hall and waited for his food on one of the benches on the far side of the room. The mess hall was almost empty. Will didn't take any notice of the mean sitting at the benches. He put his arms up on the table and laid his head in them, only just managing to keep awake.
The cook brought him a bowl of mushy porridge and Will scoffed it down, happy to finally get some food. After he finished he made his way back to the sleeping quarters and retrieved his weapons before walking out of the Garrison and into the forests of Blackwood.
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A few hundred paces from the Fort William came across a cave hidden in some deep brush on the side of a hill, he wandered in with his sword drawn, always on the lookout for any Undead. The cave went deeper and deeper into the side of the hill and William began to worry. What if he got lost down here? Then he heard a noise erupting from a tunnel to his right. He crept slowly and sneakily into the tunnel and stopped abruptly when he saw a glow of light shining from around a corner up ahead. Will crouched down and snuck towards the light, he peeked around the corner and saw a huge, crackling fire with a circle of figures dancing around it. A man was roasting on a spit above the fire. Cannabilistic Vampires!

OOC: Gotta go. Will add to tommorow, bye.

Awoken by the noise, John opened his eyes and put his head up. He heard a terrifying scream and talkabout the death of Skellan.
He then got up and glanced at the body under the sheets. Good riddance! John was never close friends with Skellan, he always found him to be cocky and annoying. John and him got into arguments frequently and insulted each other. The only thing stopping them from killing each other was the fact that they would get kicked out of the outpost.

''Good morning everyone, this is turning out to be a good day already!'' he said looking at the body.

He then sat down and glanced at the delicious looking breakfast, ''So can I make up for the absence of Skellan and have extras?''

John either likes someone or he doesn't. When he dislikes someone, he REALLY hates them. He usually isn't like this but he really hated Skellan and felt it was deserved.

"John.. Be respectful! A fellow member of the Legion is dead! And at the hands of no other than the bastard bloodsvckers! Show some sympathy for those less lucky than you. It could have just as easily been you lying dead under those bloody sheets. And no you can't have his breakfast! In fact, no breakfast for you today. Your greediness must be repented for. Now get out of my sight before you anger your poor Captain any more than you already have," spat Ferman, who consistently has to reprimand the childish Imperial. The last thing Ferrus wants to deal with right now is his soldiers acting out of hand.

OOC: I know that I said the posts of mine will be slown down, but I feel this post needs to be done now. Oh and the contents of this post have been agreed with by 'Long John'.

As Salvius was eating he heard the Captain give him orders to barricade all the windows in the barracks after he had gotten ready. The Imperial felt this job was definatly necessary but to be honest a waste of his capabilties, he should be using his fighting tactics to help plan a raid or an attack, not put wood on windows. Those mundane tasks are for the new recruits. Although he did understand they were short of men, so he complied.

''Yes sir, it shall be done soon.'' Salvius respectfully spoke to his superior, always loyal but sometimes slightly doubtful. He would use Janus, a new recruit, to help with the job. He was an eager young man always looking for jobs.

As the Imperial munched on his food he noticed that for some odd reason it didn't taste as bad. What he was eating was what he would usually have each breakfast. Must of gotten used to it I guess, Salvius thought, as he indulged himself on another scrumptious strawberry, one of his personal favourite foods. Suddenly William, a young Imperial entered the room. ''Morning Will!'' Salvius spoke. However the man pretty much left as soon as he came, taking his breakfast. He looked at him perplexed, but then just shook his head, but not in shame. Just like Will. Unfortunatly, after William left the room, John entered taking his place. The Legionnaire never liked John that much. Sure he was a great fighter but the way he acted was atrocious. However Salvius tried to be as nice as he could to him, and everyone for that matter, at all times just trying to make people happy. Before Salvius could say anything, John spoke his own words.

''Good morning everyone, this is turning out to be a good day already! So can I make up for the absence of Skellan and have extras?'' John arrogantly spoke, a mistake on his part. Salvius gave him an evil and sadistic look, the worst he had given anyone he wasn't fighting. He proceed to stand up, even if John was extremely tall Salvius still felt he could take the man down. He grabbed John's throat and tripped him with his feet causing the cocky man to fall crashing down.

''You....you bastard! What is your problem?! I don't give two sh*t's if you didn't like Skellan, he was loyal and at least respectful. It might be you dead next time! And if it is well, no loss. Oh and I will be reporting you to the Captain you filthy vermin!'' With that Salvius hoisted the man up and shoved him into the shelf of pumpkins. The Imperial would rarely ever get that angry, but he was in an awful mood to begin with. Also swearing is something he hated also. He heard many vile pigs using it before, and abhorred the vulgar words. It seemed that Captain Ferrus had already heard, and gave John a good piece of his mind.

''Bah! Why don't we just expell that wretch now! I'll pay for a horse to get him the hell out of here.'' Salvius spoke to his superior, trying to show off his hate for John. ''He's not even worthy for a Legion.'' He was pretty much certain that Ferrus wouldn't get rid of him, but Salvius needed to voice his mind. Although he did notice he was getting a little to angry to be comfortable around.

''Look I'm sorry Captain, just everything thats been happening is getting to me. And that John just went way overboard. I couldn't be held responsible actions.''

OOC: Well I'm off to college now . Can you all do me a favour and not rush to far? I need to barricade all those windows up and that yet.

"I am aware he doesn't deserve to wear the armor of the proud Legion. But at the moment we need all the men we can get.. And who knows? Maybe he will become useful if we need some fodder to bait the vampires. I understand your anger, I will punish the boy further. Cut him some slack, though, he is probably just as stressed about our situation as the rest of us are. Don't worry. The wretch won't last long out here," said Ferman to calm Sal's anger.

"Later on I want you to visit me and Ladin in my quarters. We both wish to speak with you. Do not worry, you aren't in trouble, but I have recognized your intelligence and wish to discuss the plan before I reveal it to the others. Now do the Legion proud and bar me some damned windows," said the Captain with a wink and a chuckle, before grabbing a plate of food and sitting down to eat.

OOC: here i am at last, and i'll allow the slight character control in Vum's post as i wasn't here, although it changes my planned entrance

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With breakfast more or less served up on the dining room table; a nice variety of meat's vegetables and fruits along side the choice of oats and porridge for certain soldiers, Tor took the chance to help himself to his breakfast. He had been up an hour or two as his chores meant he had to start much earlier than the other troops, but Tor didn't mid much as he loved the morning air and also the smell of fresh food. He walked out of the kitchen a final time and removed his apron before hanging it on the back of his chair and sitting down. Brushing down his crumpled shirt he scooted forward and grabbed the knife and several peices of fruit before slicing them up into a bowl and went about mixing them together and pouring some brandy over them to give his fruit salad a kick.

"Soo.." he began non nonchalantly ".. What was all that commotion not long ago? Sounded pretty bad, another victim perchance?" he questioned as he effortlessly poked his fork into a slice of pear and raised it into his mouth. He had heard the scream and the clamouring yet not once did he pause in his cooking.


EDIT: OOC: no problem, my bad

OOC: Can you edit the sheet out of your post and put it in A Tyrant Rises instead? The sheets aren't supposed to be in this thread.

IC:

"Skellan died.. I had to kill him myself, Gods guide his soul. Surprisingly the meal today didn't taste like a goblin's [censored]. Good job, Altmer," said the Captain threw bites of the food.

"By the way, Tor, you're due for another swordsman lesson.. You only focusing on the bow is unexceptionable for a man of your skill. Ladin will see you attend the lesson later on. I know you despise it, but it is essential for you to have atleast some prowess with the blade. We may be getting into close combat with the vampires soon, and if you want to see any action you're going to have to handle yourself in close combat," stated Ferrus.

"Very well." Tor responded with a sigh, he didn't like up close combat, not that he feared getting injured, he simply thought of it as sluggish and a waste of energy. Besides using an arrow he could be much more accurate and nullify an aggressor before he was reached, but then if he was ambushed from behind then the captain did have a point.

"As long as i don't end up on the front line, if i died then what would you eat?" he joked, even in a time like this were the situation was going down hill and men were being turned, kidnapped and killed Tor still managed to put on a laid back everyday attitude.

He forked together slice of pear, apple and strawberry before popping into his mouth and gently chewing it together, swallowing the brandy that dripped off onto his tongue. He wasn't much of a drinker but used a fair few spirits and liqours in his meals for flavour, and knew the men appreciated a little comfort. It also often took away any odd flavours the fresh ingredients gave off, and helped to burn away any unsafe meat.

Raising his glass of water, Tor raised another question. "Where do you think those vamps are coming from? I mean they attack too frequently to travel far, what with the limited time of darkness and i doubt they would leave themselves the risk of being caught outside when the sun comes up." Tor took a short sip to wash down his breakfast, then placed the glass back down.

Manus swallowed another mouthful of meat and fruit before speaking again, "The Vampires' hideout is most likely close.. It's only a matter of time until we find the bastards. But in the mean time we must figure out how to protect ourselves.. I'm going to hold a meeting later today. Probably when Will gets back. For now we must be vigilant and wait," the Dunmer brought his empty foot tray to the window and tossed out the apple cores and other inedible objects.

"Y'know Tor.. For a race that's full of stuck up, pompous, proud, xenophobic brats you're not so bad," joked Ferman to the Altmer. In this situation some joking here and there did a lot to raise spirits. And, when you're being hunted by vampires, getting short on supplies, and assaulted by bandits, morale is important. If morale got to an extreme low, mutiny would almost be inevitable.

ooc: Actually, I might be able to squeeze in a quick post before I leave...

ic:

Ladin took a quick swig of ale from Ferman's leathery canteen. He handed the flask back to the Dunmer. Yeah. Legionnaire Skellan got bit. I had to put 'em out. May his soul rest in peace, I only hope it wasn't too late to save him from damnation'' Captain Ferman said, with a hint of sorrow and regret. Ladin shook his head slightly it disbelief, ''Bloody hell...'' He began, before trotting out the barracks after Ferman. Skellan was the Outpost's best swordsmen, as fast as lighting could hit the ground was as fast as that crazy man was with a blade. May the gods guide his soul.....if they exist..., He thought bitterly at the loss of not only a good soldier, but a good friend.

At least no one else was bitten...I suppose that good.... Ladin followed Ferman to another makeshift barracks, or in this case, the place where the soldiers slept. The Dark Elf began nudging and shaking people awake, Ladin did the same.
When most of the men were up. ''Sir, I'll go awake the others...'' The lizard said, and not waiting for permission, he left the barracks and headed to one of the large cabins. The cabins were larger then the barracks, and could hold up to 50-60 men, although, in this case, they're were barely 30.

Instead of taking Ferman's quiet approach on waking the Legionnaires, Ladin grabbed a metal pot and a wooden spoon from a small cupboard. He stepped quietly to the middle of the cabin, then began banging the spoon against the interior of the pot as hard as he could. ''Oi!'' Ladin shouted, ''Get up, the lot of you!''
The noise and commotion caused by the Argonian caught the sleepers off guard. Several of them jumped up in their beds, one even yelped in surprise. But in the end, zombie-like groans filled the large wooden room as the soldiers got up for a new day. ''Breakfast is served in the east barracks, don't be late!'' Ladin shouted, then set the pot and spoon on the nearest table. Then headed towards the cabin door as the awaken legionnaires got dressed. Speaking of breakfast...I wonder what Tor made this time...? It's always something new...

Ladin entered the east barracks and headed straight to the dining area. ''You know sir, I forgot to mention how much I enjoy my job...as bad as it may be sometimes...'' The Lieutenant said, grinning like a madman, before sitting down in a seat next to his superior. ''Morning', Tor'' Ladin said to the Altmer chef, whom everyone could agree, could make the best food in Tamriel. Ladin poked the breakfast in front of him experimentally with a fork, before his stomach urged him to eat it. How does that elf make this food? With the supplies running thin, I'm surprised we're not eating rats yet....
Ferman suddenly said something about the location of the vampire holdout, obviously the two mers were in a conversation Ladin had just walked into. ''Their hideout would probably be a cave or something...'' He said, shoving a mass of pork and pear into his mouth.

Ferman sat back down next to his Lieutenant. Ferrus said in a quiet tone so nobody else would overhear, "I see potential in the Legionnaire Salvius. I proposed a meeting with him, you, and I to discuss our plans and possibly promote the man to sergeant. I hope you agree, Ladin, you know how much I value your council in my decisions. I know the men have their doubts about me and my loyalty to the Emperor. I know you do too.. But it is good knowing that you have a Lieutenant that watches you back eh? I just want you to feel the same with me.. I notice how you act around me, nervous almost. I just want you to know that you can trust me. I'm your Captain, ordered to take care of my men and Nine Divine be damned if I can't carry out that job," he said in a low voice, patting the Argonian on the shoulder.

The gesture was out of kindness, not out of an attempt to sway his lieutenant to his side. In these dark times sometimes having a friend you can count on is essential. With vampires rauaging his forces, the Captain needed someone to count on, and someone who would watch his back. He hoped Ladin would accept his offered friendship, it would change things for the better.

The Captain accepted Salvius' mood against John, seeing it as fair. They both seemed to have the same view of the man, a cocky, selfish bastard who doesn't even deserve to be in the Legion. The Imperial mostly agreed with Ferrus' idea that John would be good for cannon-fodder, however it didn't seem right to treat a man so badly, even if he is an uncaring moron. However what Ferman said next was a big suprise.

"Later on I want you to visit me and Ladin in my quarters. We both wish to speak with you. Do not worry, you aren't in trouble, but I have recognized your intelligence and wish to discuss the plan before I reveal it to the others. Now do the Legion proud and bar me some damned windows." The Captain spoke with a chuckle, winking in the process.
''Well... of course sir. I'll be there as soon as I can but those windows will take a while.'' Salvius spoke to Ferrus, laughing with him at his joke about the windows. The Legionnaire always respected his Captain, he was charasmatic and a great morale lifter, even in the current dark times. Salvius wouldn't care if the man couldn't take on a Mud Crab, he's still a fantastic leader.

Before going straight to the barracks, Salvius needed to collect wood and DIY tools from the storage cupboard. As he reached for some wood, a splinter got caught in his finger. Gah! Dammit, Salvius slowly pulled out the wooden splinter. As the Imperial lumbered clumbsily into the barracks he caught sight of Ladin giving the wake up call. Smacking pots and pans together if you want to be precise. It was a crude yet effective method. Amongst the soldiers waking up was Janus, the new recruit and one of Salvius' good friends in the Legion, he personally saw much potential in the young man. ''Haha, rise and shine young man.'' Salvius gave a friendly laugh at Janus, as he moaned and groaned getting out of his bed. The Imperial would need his help if the barricade was to be done soon.

''Oh Janus before you get ready, can you just gimme' a hand with this barricade?'' Salvius tried to sound calm and friendly. He was thinking of giving Janus the news of Skellan, but thought better of it. It would only depleat the boys morale, never a good thing in these bad days. Instead he would leave it to someone better with words than himself.
''Of course sir, I'll do what I can.'' Janus exclaimed, energetic as usual. Salvius loved the 18 year olds positive outlook, he saw great things in his future.
''Heh, thats ma' boy. Just pass me the tools that I need, don't want to strain you too early.''

The wood being used for the barricade wasn't the thickest nor the hardest stuff, but it would do the job it was intended for just fine. The softness actually made the it easier for Salvius to hammer the nails in, so was actually a positive thing. By the time he had done the third window, The soldier was starting to get tired, along with that he was sweating prevousily. The lack of much to do lately had obviously taken some sort of effect. When I'm out of here, I gotta get back in shape, Salvius thought as he wipped sweat of his forehead. His companion decided to make his own remark.

''You need any help there sir?'' Janus said cheekily. Salvius turned with a smile.
''You just watch your mouth around those words boy, or I'll stitch it shut.'' The Imperial responded, chuckling in the process.

It had been a long while by the time Salvius and Janus finished. However their barricade was definatly very staunch and sturdy. He did leave little holes however, to peak through if ever needed, but it was certain that no Vampires would get through the defense. ''Okay Janus you're dismissed. Good job, I'll be sure to put in a word to the Captain.'' Janus simply saluted and went to the dinning room. Instead Salvius took time to admire his work, and drink some water in the process. Randomly, he started to think about how the Vampires get into the Guardhouse, they never go through the door, it's always locked, and they never used the windows anyway. It was then the Imperial got a sudden idea, that he needed to inform the Captain about.

Salvius rushed over to the dinning area, where the Captain and his lieutenant were eating breakfast. Before he informed his superior, the Legionnaire waved and gave a thumbs up to Tor, the cook, for the good meal he prepered. Then he sat down next to Ferrus.

''Okay the windows are barred, but before we get on to those important matters you told me about I must tell you something about the Vampires, I feel that I know how they're getting to us.'' Salvius took a deep breath. ''As you know they can't get through the door and for whatever reason they don't use the windows right? Well they must be getting to us through some sort of secret route that we haven't been bothered to check out. They might have a tunnel or something, I'm not certain yet. But I need to check the basemant. None of us ever go down there, I feel that could be how they're getting here. With your permission, may I investigate?'' Salvius waited patiently for the Captain to respond.

The Captain, interrupted by Sal from his conversation with his lieutenant, said, "An interesting speculation, my friend. After we meet, I will lead a team down there. Naturally you will be there. I'll have to think about who else to take later on. For now, let me speak with my lieutenant... I shall speak with you once we are ready to meet in my chambers. And good job on the windows.. You are on your way to great things, legionnaire. Now leave me. Once I'm done here me and Ladin will seek you out. Farewell," Ferrus waved him off, but in a friendly manner.

He turned back to Ladin and resumed waiting for an answer to his offer of friendship.

It was only until after Salvius finished telling the Captain his idea that he realised he butted in the conversation Ferrus and Ladin were having. This made him feel incredibley rude, and one thing the Imperial hated was rude people who cared for no-one but themselves. Kind of like John in a way. And in no way shape of form did Salvius want to compare himself to John, it's a personal insult. Even though he felt rude, Ferrus didn't seem to mind.

"An interesting speculation, my friend. After we meet, I will lead a team down there. Naturally you will be there. I'll have to think about who else to take later on. For now, let me speak with my lieutenant... I shall speak with you once we are ready to meet in my chambers. And good job on the windows.. You are on your way to great things, legionnaire. Now leave me. Once I'm done here me and Ladin will seek you out. Farewell." Ferrus spoke calmy, then proceeded to wave Salvius away in a friendly manner.

''Yes sir. Oh and sorry for the disruption.'' With that Salvius saluted and walked away. He was happy that he and a team would be exploring the basemant, it sounds a little childish for a 38 year old but he enjoyed hunts and searches. Although he didn't really like the fact that they were looking for Vampires, it kind of takes the fun away. Luckily he would have others around him, he would be scared out of his wits if he didn't. The Imperial never understood how the scouts could be so seemingly fearless, sneaking around all kinds of nasty places without hesitation. Guess it comes with expierence, Salvius thought, shrugging. Before he made his way back to the barracks to get ready, Salvius thought he would speak to the Altmer cook, Tor, and thank him personally for the breakfast.

''Morning buddy. Great breakfast I have to say, tasted much better today. No offence of course.'' Salvius said chuckling, trying not to upset the cook. ''You never to fail to suprise me, that I'll give you. Oh and mind if I just take this chunk of meat?'' The Legionnaire didn't really wait for an answer, he knew Tor would let him. He walked of waving. The meat Salvius was eating was Venison. It always pleased him that it was cheap and there was always loads to spare, seeing as it came from such a common source. The Imperial sat down on his bed, taking large bites of the Venison. He was a large man and always ate quite quickly. While he ate, Salvius couldn't help but think about Skellan, it truely made sadness swell up within him. Skellan was a great friend, always ready for a laugh and like the Captain, helped bring morale within the group, even if things weren't going to well. He was also a fearsome warrior and could strike as quick as a blur, if you blinked you would miss him. Skellan was that devistating and would truely be a loss to the group in more ways then one. However all this thinking didn't help, all it did was swell up rage. Salvius decided he would head to the training room, to let off some steam.

Salvius' Legion armour was stored neatly in a decorated cupboard. He pulled on the cuirass slowly, making sure it was in the right position. He had customized parts of his armour by placing soft padding inside them, it would make the heavier parts easier to cope with and also provide a little more protection even if it wasn't much. After he put on his greaves, Salvius started to wave his legs around and stretch, it would make his legs looser and make wearing the greaves more comfortable. The Imperial simply slipped on his boots and gauntlets, however he never wore the helmet. All it would do was hinder his sight and ability to hear. He had felt the same way ever since he joined the Legion sixteen years ago. Even though he was about to practice, the Legionnaire would never used his specially crafted longsword for training, it was too precious. Crafted by his father, and the only real memory he had of him. Instead he went to the armoury and picked up a similar longsword from the weapons cabinet.

Wanting to start practicing and taking out anger as soon as possible, Salvius briskly walked into the training rooms. They were always a little bit cold but with the heavy armour, it wasn't very noticable. The angered up soldier proceeded to hit the practice dummy, trying to imagine it was one of those ghastly Vampires.

William quickly and quietly left the cave, if he had tried to fight the Vampires he would have become one himself! On the way back to the Fort William was always on the lookout, the noises of the woods were becoming more and more disturbing. As was the smell.
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As he arrived at the Garrison William rushed into the mess hall where he hoped the Captain would be. He was.
"Captain! Captain!" He called as he rushed towards him.
"Captain sir, I found a Vampire cave a few hundred paces to the North sir." He took a breath then continued.
"I-I saw 'em, they had a big fire and were roasting a man on a spit! I didn't know what to do sir, I would've helped 'im but there were to many of 'em!"
He waited for the Captain's respnse.

John had nothing to say. It was obvious that no liked him there so if he were to fight back they would never side with him.

Later that day when Salvius was in the training room, John followed him in without being seen. And went up behind him, ''Hey. You know you don't have to ride the captains d*** all day, you kiss a**. It's pretentious di**s like you who make everyone think the legion is full uppity c***s. It's a shame, really.'' he said trying to startle him.

OOC: Sorry for the short post. Pretty busy all day today.

OOC: Sorry I didn't post today.. I slept from 12:30 am to 10:00 pm :/..

IC:

Captain Ferman looked over his shoulder. Good, no one had heard except him and the lieutenant.
Great work my friend! We must strike tommorow.. When the sun is in the sky, so they can't escape. Come, Ladin and Will, we must go find Sal so we might discuss our plans," the Captain explained. "And Ladin.. I only hope you consider the offer."