OOC: If anyone hasn't noticed, I'm RPing as members of two different sides. I just hope I don't over-post.

IC:

Vivec, Temple Canton

Ashu followed the Ordinator out of the temple building.

"Telasero...stronghold in Molag Amur...yes I think I know the place. Near the coast, between Suran and Molag Mar. Has one of those teleportation chambers. What of it?" Ashu had a feeling that he would probably have to go there, but he figured such an assertion would just serve to anger the Ordinator. He seemed the very picture of how he viewed them; dead serious. Still, so long as he did what the mer said, there shouldn't be any problems.

As they exited, Ashu noticed a strange procession entering. From the look of it, they were Ashlanders. Real Ashlanders. And likely pretty important ones too. He only had a chance to catch a glimpse, because he wasn't going to keep an Ordinator waiting. It briefly reminded Ashu of his own heritage; as a Velothi, he and his family had retained their Ashlander names, but now lived as settled Dunmer. It was rough; real Ashlanders considered Velothi like himself to be soft, and the House Dunmer tended to view his people as paupers and peasants. It wasn't completely untrue; his parents were egg miners, a humble but important task. But Ashu wanted more, harvesting eggs was not for him. He was most at home away from civilization, traveling the land like his ancestors. He rarely associated with actual Ashlanders, though, as many were quite hostile even to other Ashlanders. And not actually belonging to any tribe, or even being a true Ashlander for that matter, he was often mistaken for an outcast.

Ashu pushed those thoughts out of his head and set his focus on the current matter, which was whatever orders the head of the Order of War had for him.

OOC: Just trying to get a post in. Essays are the devils work I tells yah!

Tevyn, Under-Scar

Tevyn listened intently as he finally got the official version of the report from somebody he almost completely trusted. Ratharys and himself were once quite close, at least in his own eyes and he was a mer he could rely on for trustworthy information at the right time, as well as someone he could trust in the heat of battle. THe prospect of finally getting out of his isolation and getting back into combat got him excited as Ratharys invited him along to investigate and he smiled widely.

"Lead on friend. I wouldn't mind hearing the testimony of these men with my own ears and once we are done I can be back in a flash and ready to go and investigate these things first hand."

He smiled again and waited for Ratharys to lead on to the interview. He felt the dagger at his side shift slightly, as though it knew it was going to see battle again quite soon.

Vivec

The High Fane

With a gentle nod, the two guards remained behind as the emissary in between continued onward. The reliefs on the walls, some of which he could recognize while others were in his opinion, heretical. Personally he did not hate the Tribunal even though many ashalnders did. He felt that Vivec truly did love the people but that he was a childish god. Almalexia was vindictive and power hungry. Sotha Sil was a hermit who seemed to care little for the outside world. "Let us continue then."

OOC: I don't know lol you kind of left me at a place where I can't post that much about this scene.

============================

Vivec

Canols

The gondola glided across the dark water slowly amongst a few others. The rower was cloaked in his usual dark gray robe. His hands, elegantly grasping the rowing rod pushed the craft onward through the waters. Over head the torch lit bridges cast light upon the darkness below like the arms of Magnus reaching over to embrace the city. Between two cantons to remain un-named the gondola stopped, under a bridge which had torches unlit, Serosi stopped the boat stepping off at an underpass below the bridge. From there he opened a small wooden door that he got through by crouching and inside it was pitch black, but not to his eyes. Maneuvering through the cluster of books and furniture he entered a lit room beyond it twice in size and inside sat Valkynaz Sabazios, a Dremora long exiled from Dagon's realm. On his lap sat a dozing cat and in his hand was a glass of wine. Against the chair rested his blade. Even in these small shambles, Sabazios looked like a true refined noble.

"What brings you here, Sanctuary?"

"Why have the Kynaz invaded?"

"Straight to the point, I see. Mehrunes Dagon has made some sort of pact with a mortal and he now claims this realm as his own. The Markynaz are also coming for us exiles as well." His voice was casual without a hint of fear.

"And the fire around Vvardenfell?"

"Perhaps the lord of Destruction has seen fit to bring annihilation to the people here with particular gusto."


OOC: I had planned to make this a bit longer but I need to put something down to get it moving while i'm still busy.

(I have absolutely no time to make a post. I'll do this one now and edit it once I get ten minutes together.)

Llathras Valyon stood up, saluting his fellow House Brother before addressing him.

"Very well then, my friend. With the Daedra coming, Gnisis will need protection that the weakened Empire cannot afford. I will join your companion at the gate and deal with it."

With that, Llathras and Athynis Valyon made way for the Oblivion Gate, fully armed and armored, with a band of six Redoran Spearmen

---

Meanwhile, Under-Skar, a small meeting of councilmen and high ranking Redoran lords was forming. Miner Arobar, the recently inducted leader of te Great House, was addressing his servants. Redas Valyon joined into the conversation.

"I know not what this Daedric invasion foretells, my friends, but nothing good can come of it. It has killed an entire unit of Redoran soldiers and has drawn the attention of my own sons... may they return unharmed. But even with such a catastrophic doom impending, what of House Hlaalu? Can their deceitful ways be shown a cheek as we fight of the Daedra, or would they seek to strike us when we are most vulnurable?"

Under Skar, Llethri Manor.

Aryon Llethri

After Llathras had exited the room Aryon walked over to the table that his armor sat on. Glancing over it he noticed a clump of shattered bonemold and leather strappings, he presumed that this was what was left of his shield and left bracer. All of the armor was encrusted with blood and dirt, it looked vile and disgusting. Aryon walked over to his bed and picked up the bowl of water that sat there, he also grabbed some cloth off of his dresser. Aryon sat at the table and began to remove the filth from his armor as best as he could.

OOC: Didnt have much to write on, just wanted to set up the seen for you Wooly.

Vivec
Andrano; Endryn

"Yes, that is the place I mean." Andrano continued, still not turning his head while addressing Ashu. "Once, it was a place of military importance; a stronghold of our ancestors. Rumours of gates to the Daedra realms opening and a great ring of fire surrounding Vvardenfell lead me to believe the Order of War will need such places in the comming time; with the fall of the Devil, we finally have enough mer to undertake such a task. I intend to restore Telasero and Molag Mar speaks of you as a capable scout. So prove your recommendation correct and scout the stronghold out. Do not report back to me once you do; go straight to Molag Mar and seek out the commander of the Temple garrison there. He will be your commander for the purpose of this task, as he may have further use for you after you bring him the information required."

"Take care not to die," The Archordinator added, stopping before the door to the Hall of Justice. There was no concern in his voice, however. "At last report, the stronghold was inhabbited by servants of the Devil who survived their master's fall. The Sixth House is capable of great cunning, and this information is of great importance. Bring back an approximation of the enemy's strength there and scout out the best advance routes possible. The Three bless your path." And with that he rather abruptly entered the Hall of Justice, slamming the door behind him and letting the scout know that he did not desire to be followed.

===============

Though the Ashlanders' request to see the Archcanon seemed rather odd, Endryn nevertheless knocked on the doors of the Patriarch's private office. Saryoni was still sitting at his desk, mulling over the conversation that had just occured between him and Andrano. The Ashlander emissary might've caught a glimpse of the office while Llethan was entering; there wasn't much to it. Though the High Fane was a quite majestic structure, Tholer's room was much more modest, consisting only of a bookshelf with some religious texts, a large redwood table, covered by letters, reports, half written replies and crumpled pieces of paper, and two chairs, one in front of the table and one behind.

Llethan did not take long, reappearing from the office several moments later.

"The Archcanon shall receive you now."

OOC: Very [censored], but I haven't got any time right now.

Ashu turned away from the High Fane and looked out towards the east. It was good that he had something productive to do with his skills, but he wasn't going to cherish walking into Telasero. He did tend to poke his head where it didn't belong, but he never put himself into a situation he couldn't escape. This would be different; he was going to have to venture into the stronghold and explore it. Without alerting the inhabitants.

The bigger concern Ashu had about this assignment, however, was what lay within. He himself had taken a quick look inside; he would never forget the red candles and lack of light that signified a Sixth House base. Needless to say, he bolted upon seeing a Corprus beast. He wasn't sure if it even saw him in the dim light, but he had no intention of taking the chance with something that could spread the most terrible disease in all of Tamriel. Still, that was quite a while ago, before the Nerevarine had defeated Dagoth Ur. With Dagoth Ur dead, his minions slowly started to die off. But even after this time, there could still be some stubborn ash monsters in there. Still, as far as he knew, Sixth House bases tended to be pretty dark; so long as the minions didn't have enhanced vision or other means to sense foes, Ashu should be able to sneak around them.

The Dunmer, still wet from his swim, turned his attention to more pressing matters; how to get there. He knew it lay between Suran and Molag Mar, to the northeast. But what would be the best route? He could take the direct route, swimming from island to island until he hit the mainland, presumably near the stronghold. Unfortunately, swimming was slower and took more energy than running. It would be more efficient to take a land route. As the Temple Canton wasn't on the mainland, he would have to get there first. Normally he would swim to the mainland, but he felt that as he actually had a job to do, it was imperative to get to the stronghold as fast as he could. And the fastest way for him would be to run through the cantons. It wasn't confusing; the cantons were easy to navigate. But Ashu didn't like traveling through cities, as he rarely got a warm reception. Nevertheless, he had to get to Telasero and if that meant running past a bunch of stuffy House Dunmer, so be it.

Ashu walked down the stairs and began to run, or rather jog, to spare his energy, south towards the southeastern Canton.

The emissary bowed respectfully after he entered. Although he seemed slightly aged he carried a vibrancy in his eyes confident in the message he had to deliver. "Blessings be upon you and everyone faithful in and around the city. The prophet Kadesha and direct descendant of Veloth sends her regards and offers you the message passed down from our ancestors, Beothia, Mephala, and Azura. Now that the Tribunal has fallen, what more proof do you need that their interpretation of the prophet was perverted by the three? We extend an invitation from the prophet for a visit to the Ashlands and perhaps gaze upon copies of the scriptures of Veloth."


OOC: I got a big paper due tomorrow i'm just shifting time to do this when I can. Also feeling a bit uninspired as of late for some reason. Maybe once the inter house conflict picks up...

Vedaelra played with the cuff of her new walking dress. Damn the incompetent fool, the hem is too long; It'll be flopping all over the place if I have to cast any spells. She bit her lip in irritation. This was not the day to be seen foolishly playing with her clothes.

Vedaelra stood on the docks of Tel Branora; observing the sea with a faint reverence. It allowed her house a bountiful freedom of transportation, when simple teleportation wouldn't suffice. Of course, she had a Mark spell active in her chambers in Tel Aruhn, should anyhting go amiss, or she just wanted to go home. A few boats waited on the docks. They were shallow ones, not fit for the open seas, but perfect for navigating the rocky and riddled coasts of Vvardenfell. The captains were gathered on the pier, huddling against the cold night air, the chill breeze from the sea.

Beside her was her... companion for the current task. *Insert Verlox's character* was beneath her in rank, but it was always useful to have numbers in these excapades. Besides, if she needed stealth, she could conjure similar glamers on her own to anyone who needed it.

"So, are you ready to depart? Our task is simple; at this point it is just to investigate the 'Twin Lamps' orginization, where they are located, who they are, their weaknesses and their allies. Oh yes, I know exactly where you came from before you joined the house proper; I assume you're familiar with them." Vedaelra smiled, she knew exactly how to pick them. "It's back to the slave buisiness for us. Any questions?" Her visage was carefully held, neutral, but underneath it was her poisonous personality.

Saryen wasn't on this mission by choice. He had no particular liking for his companion's master, Aryon, and that dislike and distrust filtered down to his subordinates. But, Saryen conceded to himself, she was a Spellwright, and he was just a lowly Lawman, and if he refused her orders he might find himself an experiment in some out-of-the-way Telvanni stronghold. And that was certainly not something he would want. And, he figured, even if she didn't incenerate him on the spot, she would find him. If some bastard calling himself Nerevarine could get Archmagister Gothren, then surely a trained Telvanni could get anyone.

"Yeah, I know a thing or two about those bleeding heart Twin Lamps. I had more than a few scraqe with them on the mainland a few years back, in Tear. Pah!" the Dunmer spat on the ground, "If those Dres weren't so concerned about their finances, and paid more attention to their associates, we might not have such trouble in catching slaves. I'll tell you, we found a ring of those Lamps right in the city; right in the pvssyl Capitol of Morrowind! And if they can survive there, they can survive anywhere....Heh, unless we gut em' of course, nothing short of a god can survive a sword to the gut."

Checking his pocket to make sure a vial of poison was still there, he continued, "But I do have a few questions. Why are we going after the Twin Lamps? I know from a few contacts, who," he grinned at his superior, revealing slightly yellowing teeth, "shall remain unnamed, that they're pretty small time on the island. Is it a matter of principle that we're out to....'find information' on them, eh?"

Balmora

Crane

The sun had just set out of the sky when I pushed open the small gate to the first house. The building was three levels, rather ornate in design; a home of a wealthy person. However when I knocked on the door, the master of the house was there to greet me. He was thin and older, the darks of his eyes and his grey hair giving away his many years of life. Offering me a soft smile he waited for my greeting. When he found out I was a relative of his associate he smiled inviting me in. "I had been writing all after noon and lost track of the time. It's nice to see another face. Tea?" He had placed the cup in front of me as soon as I sat down at the table. The question was more a formality. I instinctively waited to see if he would also drink and was pleased when he did, and I followed suit.

"Are you fond of stories?" I posed to him a question he could only answer with yes, I could tell by his disposition and most people did in fact like stories. There was something so profound and deep to our beings about story telling. And of course as I predicted he nodded in approval. "Have you heard the story of Antiochus and Sogdiana?"

"I have in the tradition of Narsis and Necrom. The regional differences is something I appreciate."

"Well Antiochus and Sogdiana carry a special meaning to the traditional Dres of Tear and they have a unique tradition to the story which interestingly enough is closer to the tradition of Necrom than Narsis. As you know Antiochus was a great Aldmeri noble and his name even today is used with honor in the Summerset Islands. The Altmer have a story as well but is nothing like ours. Sogdiana was his beautiful wife whom he married out of both love and political prudence in order to keep peace between his house and that of his rivals. He loved her so much that he hired masters of illumination from all over Summerset Isles, and some even from the Heartland to keep her beauty in books laced in silver thread using rich reds for her lips and gold leaf for her skin. He bestowed upon her every gift he could summon, from servants to swords ornate with the rarest stones. In turn she gifted him with a son and a daughter and her talent which was music since she was little. Her talents with music was something inspiring to me since I was little and the way I make a living reminds me of her to this day. Her fingers plucked the tanbur strings like yearning thin trees in the wind awaiting for a warm spring so gracefully and delicately that it was not even her hands that seemed to touch the strings, but rather her essence, and it was not the tanbur that echoed the music, but her very soul making the music of her love."

With this I could see him smile even with his eyes at the description but he did not interrupt with his words knowing the formality and importance of story telling.

"Then the day had come that our Prophet, Veloth began his teaching among the Aldmeri folk. Our ancestors before the Chimer taught a depraved teaching which the Altmer still maintain, that the bodies are unclean and lowly forms and the essence of perfection is transcending our carnal limitations as they teach it. The Psijic Order still maintains this, wrongfully. On the other hand Prophet Veloth, and the Psijic Endevour teach a balance of flesh and spirit and that the whole being was a combination and this truth found its way into the heart of Sogdiana as well as many others who became known as Chimer, the changed ones. When she told Antiochous what she had learned and that she wanted to follow the Way of Walking which Boethiah had shown the Prophet Veloth he refused saying that he needed to maintain his House. Her heart was torn and the gifts bestowed upon her were now a feast of dust and thorns. Her fingers could no longer pluck the strings of music, as her heart no longer echoed her love to Antiochous. She left the Summerset on the Way of Walking with the other Chimer. As soon as Sogdiana's house found out, the rivalry began again and Antiochous found himself in a worse situation than before. His enemy had become his kin but then his kin became his enemy. His son and daughter were killed but as a mercy to Sogdiana for her faith, great Boethia made them the north and the south star where they could over look each other but Antiochous could reach neither. His home was left desolate and with nothing left and losing the war, Sogdiana's father captured Antiochous and had the gold dowry which was paid for the marriage, melted and the liquid gold and poured into his eyes, ears, nostrils and mouth. What does this story teach?" I was deeply curious what the aged serjo would say to such a tale and this variation in tradition.

"I had always found it to be a tragedy of not having unconditional love. And anything less than that is not love."

"This is so, but also something else. The gold in his eyes was punishment for not seeing Sogdiana with fully loving eyes. The gold in his ears were for not having a full enough love to listen to her words. The gold in his nostrils were for not fully appreciating her essence as any lovers do in embrace. The gold in his mouth was for the words of love he spoke, but did not fully realize in his heart. It is also a tale of a man who put too much emphasis on winning and coming out ahead in society. Instead of appreciating what had most priority in life, instead he wanted more and more. And such people bring ruin to those around them, especially those whom they claim to love, in the long run. And such are you Serjo Balandas. You in turn should have loved my uncle and appreciated what he has done for you. Instead your ambition has left your house empty as that of Antiochous and like him also you will lose your life. As far apart as the north and the south star are, so too will you be from your head."

His eyes widened with a fear I had often seen. A fear which I myself had felt before when you yourself realize someone so close to you is going to end you. A feeling without a doubt Antiochous felt at those who were kin and had turned back to enemies due to his over ambitiousness. And in a single fluid motion I had kicked the table between us over so that it landed on him. I stood ontop of the upside down turned table feeling myself raise slightly with the gasping breath of a man about to die. The scimitar I carried found itself raised up above like the a silver lined lunar crescent and afterward it fell.


I'm without a Body

My killer was quite the eloquent story teller, I must admit there was something soothing of his voice and in the manner he gifted me before so cruelly ending my life. It is true I did betray his uncle, but he betrayed us first with his book. The curve of the blade threw my head across the floor in the most humiliating manner and at once I was dizzy. I felt my soul sink, not at the aspect of dying but at the realization, one that I had only a shallow understanding of, which now in death grew more profound, at the emptiness of my home. And it was true, like Antiochous I made my house empty. I stared as my guest removed my ring finger along with the signet on it. No matter now, he can keep whatever he wished. I'd hope I can find peace in the other realm but i'm afraid to go. Perhaps due to judgement or perhaps simply to lament a bit more before moving on. When I move on I may yet perhaps share with you the rest of my journey.

Crane

Red. It was the color of life and death, birth and dying, and my favorite color to illuminate with. I the way I stroke the pages with other colors is simply in a manner to show off the red even more. It truly is the lover of my eye and now it was splashed across the floor in the remnants that was Serjo Balandas. His finger along with the ring on it I wrapped in a white cloth which quickly absorbed the color I held so dear. Perhaps you are wondering why I took the finger? No it was not due to some perverse fetishism or some sort of trophy but instead it would be used to further my method. No, I'm not crazy either. I know this because I often ask myself introspectively if I am crazy. Those who ask themselves are usually not, if you have not asked yourself however, you probably are, and by now it is too late to begin questioning as I was the one who put the idea in your head. Do not lament however, there is a place in the world for you as well. But I doubt you believe me. To you my trade is one that you may consider unethical, which is fine. But if you have a heart which Antiochous did not have, as well as eyes, ears, nostrils and a mouth, you may still yet understand, and even learn to appreciate what I do and how I do it.

Vedaelra observed Saryen. Either he was passionate or vulgar, or both. What he did contain was at least a shred of insight, the most valuable trait. No matter, mindslaves are useful, but those who can follow like one while act like an intelligent being are infinitely more valuable. We'll just see if he is loyal.

"You may yet attain your chance to strike at the Twin Lamps, but that is a discretion that I will make. We will be investigating them foremost, any other actions will be known when I want them to be."

She continued, examining the silver head on her staff. "As for our reasons, it is blatantly obvious to all but the weakest of minds that the times are changing rapidly. The old gods dethroned or in exile, Daedra en masse on the mainland... certain houses on the decline..." she paused for a second. "The Telvanni is not the pillar of unshakeable power some think us. We are powerful, but we are small. The same loss of resources that wouldn't cause a Hlaalu to sniff would devestate our operations. Whatever slaves we have are necessary, and any aquisitions greatly aid our cause."

"Come now, let us board the ship to Vivec. We have work to do."

OOC: I guess I'll just post before the skip. And I'm going to have to control Duke Dren for this one post.

Castle Ebonheart, Grand Council Chambers

Andel waited patiently for the Duke to finish the letter. Eventually, the Duke turned his attention to Andel. "It happens that I have an important task for you. As you know, the ring of fire has blocked Vvardenfell off from the mainland, from our allies in the Empire and House Dres. Gates to Oblivion have been opening and the Legion has declared martial law. As such I have been too busy to attend to other matters. This is where you will come in; I need you to meet with Councilor Crassius Curio at the Elven Nations Cornerclub at the Hlaalu Canton in Vivec City. Tell him I send you and assist him with whatever he needs done. If I have any other need for you, I will send for you. To get to the Hlaalu Canton, head east out of the castle until you reach the dragon statue near the docks. Head north out of Ebonheart until you see a bridge to your east leading to the Hlaalu Canton. Make your way to the top level of the Canton and enter the plaza. The Elven Nations Cornerclub is in the northwest corner of the Plaza."

Not really what I expected, but I must do as he says, I don't want to strain the relationship between House Hlaalu and King Helseth. Andel nodded and silently walked out. He had never met Councilor Curio in person, but he had spent enough time with House Hlaalu on Vvardenfell to know who the man was. And he also had once made the mistake of watching Curio's latest play, The Lusty Argonian Maid, at the Mournhold Players theater. Crassius Curio was an Imperial outlander, yet quite well established in Hlaalu. But it wasn't his race or foreign origins that he was most known for; it was his eccentricity. Andel had heard stories of Crassius making those serving him to take off their clothes or even kiss him, with apparently no regard for gender. Hopefully the Councilor will know better than to try that on a Royal Guard acting on behalf of the Duke of Vvardenfell and Grandmaster of Hlaalu.

OOC: Read his dialouge with a sterotype Boston accent

Saryen watched as Vedaelra walked up the gang-plank onto the ship, admiring the soft curves of her body and her seducing swagger. This is gonna be a fun trip, he thought to himself as he licked his lips, Though I might need to put a muzzle on her. The elf laughed internally, amused at his own quip.

"I ain't doin' this fer free, y'know!" he called to her as he got up onto the ship himself, "I expect to be handsomly paid for this. If it was some retuine job in the Grazelands, I wouldn't bat an eyelash. But yer tellin' me we're going to Vivec. Gods, woman, yer master sure likes to send you into deathtraps. I've never had a run in with ordinators before, Azura willing I never will, but I know that them guys ain't to be messed with. Yer fancy magicks won't be much help when a mace caves yer skull in."

Pulling his sword from the sheath, he felt a bit perturbed. Simple steel, even enchanted, probably wasn't bound to do much against the blessed armor of Vivec's warriors. "Just do go gettin' us inta trouble, ok? I don't want my head crush, too."

"Please," Vedaelra retorted, on the deck, "You will be paid, and didn't get where I am today by blundering my missions and 'getting in trouble.' I only have to hope that you can remain silent." Her tongue was bitter, "I can make sure in more than one way."

*cue time skip*

Ratharys, Under-Scar

Ratharys took a soft look around before nodding his head to his old friend and new companion. He motioned Tevyn to follow, giving a small nod to the high ranking noblemen that passed before him. The two crossed their way to the Llethri manor, closing the door behind them. The Dunmer agent did his best to take a small gaze around the room, eying the young Aryon before him. Ratharys had known who Aryon was for some time, though he had never met him in person. He approached the young Dunmer, who likely knew who he was. The agent outstretched his hand to the young lad.

“Greetings, Aryon. I’m Ratharys. It’s good to see you.”

Ratharys did not usually espouse such formal greetings so frequently, but nor was he in the Under-Scar too often. Today was the valid exception, in which he gave such greetings to his close old friends and to the unfamiliar relatives of the councilmen. Unfortunately, the young Aryon would not be able to respond to Ratharys immediately, as his father, Garisa Llethri, made his way into the room.

“Ratharys, it’s good to see a familiar face.”

The agent turned to meet the councilman’s eyes, answering back with his reply.

“And yours too, Garisa. I assume Miner has informed you of the current crises, as well as your son here.”

“Indeed he has. It’s a terrible thing, these Daedra, but let us Redoran not get distracted with such an incident. The Hlaalu won’t waste a minute!”

Ratharys smirked, taking a small glance back at Tevyn.

“I’m curious as to what your son has seen outside of the city, to do with the gates, but that may wait. Miner said you had other things to discuss with me, and it’s best to get them over with now.”

Garisa smiled for a moment, before frowning again. He handed Ratharys a letter, appearing to be not recently written, detailing the orders of the current mission.

“I’ve kept this for a long while, Ratharys, to play it in the right situation, and I believe we may have found our distraction for this to succeed.”

Ratharys responded with a nod and a rare smile. He glanced back over his shoulder at Tevyn, and then at the young Aryon. Lastly, his eyes returned to Garisa.

“Well, then we should be on our way,” he said, as he turned back to Tevyn once more, “Quickly Tevyn, we must resupply and be on our way quickly. I’ll explain the orders along the way.”

Garisa was just as firm to respond next, making sure he got the last word before the two hurried out the door.

“My son will go with you, and tell you of the Daedra as well. Hurry Aryon, Ratharys cannot afford to wait any longer.”

Ratharys quickly found his way out of the manor, heading for the Under-Scar’s exit. He looked again, hoping Tevyn and the young Aryon would follow, despite the hurried and unclear immediate purpose of their quest.




Miner Arobar

A dim silence fell upon the crowd of noblemen, as Miner turned to face his fellow Redoran who had echoed the question out of the group. Miner paused for a moment, moving his eyes across the face of every Redoran in the room. Though the question was asked my only one mere being, the room felt as if every man asked that question. For every man's son had not gone to fight the Daedra who would soon emerge from the gate, but every man's son and father alike held his life at risk with this new threat to Vvardenfell and Tamriel alike.

"Brother, while new enemies come, old enemies will stay the same. Forget your enemies, but remember their names."

Vivec

Tholer

The Archcanon leaned on his desk with his elbows, putting his hands together as if for prayer (as Ayem was often depicted), but not exactly - the extended lower hand was slightly off to the side rather than directly below the other and was leaned against it, while the index finger, which was supposed to be extended, was bent around his nose. The emissary could only clearly see his eyes this way; this wasn't done on purpose, to obscure some emotions, as Saryoni was well past that stage of his life where one could read his face like a book, but merely because he had become accustomed to holding his hands like this whenever the Patriarch was thinking. That was because whenever he was considering something truly important, he would pray; even when he wasn't, the gesture remained. Whether the ashlander would choose to interpret this in some way - as it was something most commonly associated with the ALMSIVI, Ayem in particular - was up to the emissary himself.

"You speak words not unfamiliar to my ears, child." Despite the religious differences between the Ashlanders and the Temple, it was still customary for the Patriarch to adress any Dunmer in this way as he was, after all, not only the mouth of one of the Tribunes, but also, in a way, the heir of Veloth, and kinship with the prophet united the Dunmer despite their religious differences, whether or not they acknowledged this connection. "Yet I have not heard of this 'prophet' of yours, neither was I aware any direct kin of the Prophet remained aside from the Dunmer as a people."

Though he didn't show it and his voice didn't suggest it, the Archcanon did not like what this mer spoke. He knew of the Ashlanders' view on the Temple and the Tribunal, just as he was aware that they liked to think of themselves as the only true people of Veloth, a view which made their case hard to sympathize with. However, to claim direct kinship with Veloth? Surely even the Ashlanders have bounds in their legend spinning. This seemed to confirm his worries - that, with the Tribunal gone and the Ordinators restricted in their actions for the time being, the Ashlanders would grow bolder. It seemed that something more was happening amongst the nomads, however, as he had never heard of a womer leader; a wise womer, perhaps, but this 'Kadesha' was unlikely to be only that, as no Ashkhan was mentioned.

"Your invitation is most interesting." In a different time, a different Archcanon might not've glossed over the insult to the Tribunal, however Saryoni had grown accustomed to being not only a religious leader, but also a diplomat of sorts. For a Patriarch, it had been quite a long time since he had spoken with complete sincerity with someone. "However, I cannot make your proposed journey myself; the Patriarch's duties weigh heavily upon my shoulders and a journey to your people's lands is not one I can make at this time. Instead, I would have the Temple be represented by a different mer and hope that your prophet is not offended by this. Gilvas Barelo is whom I would send in my place. Seek him in Holamayan priory, he will have received the message about this by the time you reach him."

Barelo was a slightly odd choice, perhaps. The mer was considered a heretic even by many of the more liberal-minded of the Temple's clergy. Past and present disagreements with the official doctrines prevented him from ever achieving a higher rank or more support, however he did have a handful of followers and kept warm relations with other similar-minded yet perhaps not quite as radical groups within the Temple. At the very least, Tholer was certain that he would not insult the Ashlanders on purpose, as could've been expected with most other priests, regardless of rank. The division between the Ashlanders and the Temple was too deep to simply disappear; it was likely that the two would never see eye to eye. However, at least for now the Archcanon did not wish to upset the nomads or their prophets; perhaps some - especially the Ordinator orders - would be dissatisfied with this decission, but Barelo was the only mer he could think of for this task that was easily accessible. Uvoo Llaren, the mistress of the Ghostgate fane, might've been a better choice, as she wasn't quite as radical but still respected the Ashlanders and their beliefs, but the situation in the Ghostgate was quite delicate and withdrawing her might've made matters worse.

OOC: @Wooly, Aryon is Garisa's nephew, not son

Aryon quickly stood and began to put on his armor, that is what was left of it. He then grabbed his sword from beside his bed a long with a small pack that had some equipment in it. Aryon rushed out of the manor after Ratharys and Tevyn, as he had fallen behind in the process of gathering his things.

As Aryon caught up to them he approached Ratharys.

"Serjo, I am sorry to bother you with this but I am curious as to where we are going and for what reason?"

Tevyn

Tevyn watched the exchange with hidden curiosity and an increasing sense of excitement to get back to work for the House. Even though very little of what the two men were talking about made sense to him, he didn't care. He could tell that they would be leaving soon but it seemed like the Daedra would have to wait for a while. Ratharys seemed intent to do something else, and that thought was confirmed a moment later when Tevyn and the young Aryon were being rushed out of the room by Ratharys.

Tevyn stood still for a half second as he tried to understand what had happened, and as he moved to keep up with the two Dunmer, his mind replayed the conversation between Garisa and Ratharys. He was sure Hlaalu had been mentioned somewhere in the conversation and it almost seemed like they were the focus of their plans at the moment. He put it to the back of his mind as they made their way hastily through the manor. Aryon asked exactly what Tevyn was thinking, but Tevyn doubted the young mer's mind was working it out at the moment.

They were obviously going out of the town, and if he had to make an educated guess, it was somewhere the Hlaalu might hold power.

"Sorry to interrupt Brother." he said apologetically to Aryon before turning to Ratharys. "If you don't need me right now, I am going to run back to my house and gather what I need. Where should we meet and in how long?" he called, already racing away to his house, while slowing down to await an answer.

Ratharys

The Dunmer watched as Aryon curiously questioned his destination, doing his best to think of a legitimate answer without giving away too much information. The young Dunmer may have had orders to go other places; even in his position, Ratharys could not interfere with Aryon's orders. Had anyone been of a lower rank, Ratharys could have taken immediate command.

Tevyn interrupted them shortly, asking for time to gather his things. Ratharys nodded his head towards his companion, figuring it was best to come prepared.

"Meet me at the outpost south of town in two hours. Disguise yourself. We will be heading to Balmora, and I wouldn't like trouble with the Hlaalu there. Bring your things, but do not make your identity an obvious one. Our stay there will not hold long, Tevyn, but come prepared."

Ratharys turned back to eye Aryon, speaking once again in a tone where no one besides the trio could hear their mission.

"We go to Balmora, Aryon. Should you have orders to go elsewhere, follow them. However, do not spread word about our actions. This is meant to be secret, and only secret."

With that, Ratharys waved Tevyn off and waited for the young Dunmer to respond. He would find his way to the outpost as soon as possible.

Aryon, Under Skar

Aryon nodded at Ratharys,

"You can trust me Ratharys, no one will know of your plans. As far as I am concerned we never even had this conversation.As for the other matter I was ordered to leave for Gnisis in the morning to take control of the forces there, however if you are in need of my assistance send word and I will come without hesitation. I bid you good luck on your journey, now I must go and arrange for tomorrow."

With that Aryon made his way out of Skar and towards the building that housed the guard barracks. When he reached the building he opened the door and walked inside to a frenzy of hurrying guards, he then remembered that it was evening, and the guards were changing shifts. He made his way through the chaos and towards the office of the guard commander. He went inside to see him sitting behind his desk reading over some documents. The captain looked up at Aryon.

"Ahh Aryon, you must be here to discuss your escort for tomorrow."

"Aye, that I am."

"Well with the recent attacks I have decided that travelling by road would not be wise. Another attack was reported today, it was in the West Gash this time. I have arranged for you and four guards to be transported to the Gnisis Temple by the priests here. It will be safer and faster to travel by magick then by road."

"I agree, I do not like the idea of running into another gate, when do we leave?"

"Sunrise, so be ready when the time comes."

"I will, good evening Sera."

"Aye, and Aryon, be safe up there in Gnisis. I'd hate to see your body be laid into a tomb at such a young age."

"I will try not to run into any more daedroths." Aryon said with a slight grin.

He then started to make his way back to his Uncle's manor.

(Consider the time skip in effect. I wanted to get something done this weekend but I couldn't. I won't hold everyone up though. It is the 2nd Day in the morning.)

Vivec, Hlaalu Canton Exterior

Things were never easy. If it weren't bad enough that he seemed to have missed Crassius Curio at the Elven Nations, he had been too tired at the time to follow up to and meet with him that day. It wasn't so much exhaustion as fatigue; prior to coming to Vvardenfell, he had been on the night shift at the Royal Palace. Once he had reached the Elven Nations and found that he had missed the meeting, it all caught up to him. Unfortunately, there were no places he could stay in the Hlaalu Canton, and he ended up having to stay at an inn at the Redoran Canton. Andel admired Redorans for their unfailing honor and dedication, but considered them to be enemies, as they opposed House Hlaalu and King Helseth. However, he also felt that he didn't have anything to worry about, as petty backstabbing was quite unlikely in Redoran, at least compared to Hlaalu and Telvanni. Regardless of his feelings for the Redorans, he woke up in the early morning rested and with no stab wounds or missing belongings.

At this point, he had spent three hours walking around the Redoran, Arena, and Hlaalu cantons; given what his schedule had been, and that he had turned in much earlier than most, it wasn't strange that he had woken up before the sun had risen. Aside from the Ordinators, things were quite peaceful. Nothing that he wasn't already familiar with. But now people were waking up and going about their daily business; it seemed like a good time to meet with Councilor Curio, apologize for missing him at the Elven Nations (to be fair he was informed under short notice and lacked the energy to get to Vivec quickly), and get down to business.

Andel walked up to Curio Manor in the Hlaalu Canton, opened the door, and walked in. After a few moments of waiting, a Dunmer woman approached him and spoke.

"What brings a servant of Helseth like yourself to Curio Manor?"

The Royal Guard replied, "On behalf of Helseth, I have been sent to Duke Dren. On behalf of Duke Dren, I must speak with Councilor Curio."

"Very well, follow me," the woman spoke. She led Andel through the mansion and down the stairs to a closed door. She knocked on the door. "Crassius, there's someone here to see you. He says he's here on behalf of the Duke."

Andel couldn't help but shudder. He heard of Crassius Curio's mannerisms and eccentricity. He was a little worried that Crassius would try it on him. And he didn't want to upset the Councilor, as he could not afford to alienate him. Not with the entire island surrounded by fire and Hlaalu in the condition that it was in.

Sathryon, Private Slave Convoy, North of Caldera

Ash twisted its way through the winds, the early sunrise reflecting its pride through the hard air of Vvardenfell. The convoy made their way through the treacherous ashes, finding grief at each step.

"Damn it. How much longer to the mine."

A large, rugged Dunmer man stood in the midst of many soldiers, numbering at about seven. These soldiers encircled a convoy of slaves; masters leading their dogs.

"Not long. Just another mile or two, and we'll be there."

Must be headed for the mine...perfect...

A red-cloaked figure emerged from the shadows; fourteen men of the same attire, with the exception of their cloaks being brown, followed.

The soldiers came to a complete halt, their leader doing his best to withhold a smirk. He stared into the bright red eyes of Sathryon, who had only stopped five yards in front of him.

"Well, well, what do we have here?"

Sathryon kept his position, raising his hand. This signaled the men behind him to keep their weapons down, that they should avoid a fight here.

"Who is your employer. Telvanni?"

The man across from his nodded easily, replying, "No, we're private. A Dres Lord. Tell me, what's the purpose of all this?"

Sathryon nodded back at the Dunmer, "Very well. We've come to ask for a swap. You'll receive some drakes- for your own pockets. In return, take me to the camp, as a slave. We get a slave for the swap, and they'll pay for me just as well."

The Dunmer captain smiled, replying in his own sharp voice, "You've got yourself a deal lad. Which slave would you like? Does it have to be a particular one."

Sathryon stopped to think, observing the slaves. He eyed an odd one in the party, a strong, hardy Nord. He was unlike the others, seeming to be stronger than the rest.

"We'll take the Nord. And I swear to it, that your part of the bargain be filled. Else, I'll kill every last damn one of you, straight to hell."

The Dunmer captain laughed at the man across from him, apparently not intimidated by his tone of voice, nor his word usage, "And what makes you think that? Young one? What kind of connections do you have?"

Sathryon replied in the same tone of voice, keeping his fierce eyes fixed upon his immediate rival, "Camonna Tong. And how old are you, Captain?"

The captain began to look serious, believing the deceitful lie told to him by the disguised Camonna associate. Had he known Sathryon was really a sly Redoran, he would have laughed in his face once more.

"I'm 74 in years, seen the Sixth House return and everything. Older than you, I'd guarantee."

"94. Now, you've got a deal?"

"Yes..."

"Well then, take the drakes, and give me a moment. I need to dress myself properly."

Sathryon gave a look at his comrades to keep their guard up, as he took his red cloak from his body, handing it to one of the others near him. His under apparel looked just like that of a slave. He turned to his comrade, who's face was hidden behind his own cloak. The Dunmer began to whisper.

"Make sure the Nord serves us well, Arandeth. Get the hell out when we're out of sight. I'm marked in Ald'Ruhn."

When Sathryon was done preparing himself, he turned back to the captain.

"Free that Nord, and get me to that damn mine. Nothing said to anyone."

The captain nodded. Sathryon filed in with the ranks of the slaves; the convoy was now making their way towards the mine.

Operation Blind Lamp had been put into action.

Vivec, Docks

Vedaelra stepped off of the boat onto the dock, having just woken up when the sun rose, which was then ten minutes to arrival. She waited calmly for her lackey to arise, so that they might get down to buisiness. "I remember Master Aryon said he'd be in Vivec, I wonder if he's still here..."