Armandsen Barbossa

It was a mighty night when the dark-clothed wanderer drifted into Bravil. The Niben Bay sparkled brightly beneath the starlit skies, and the moon lit the horizon beautifully. It had been a long journey, but it had ended at last, and the dark-clothed wonderer breathed a sigh of relief as he took a moment to himself to enjoy the beauties of Cyrodiil.

This dark-clothed traveler was Armandsen Barbossa, a tall and mighty redguard hailing from Hammerfell. He was of the Forebears, the mighty warrior clans of their kind, and though their culture had assimilated within that of Tamriel's over the many years since the First Era, Armandsen was one who did not forget where his people came from. He would stand proud, his chin tilted to the sky as he called himself Yokudan, and what brought him so far from his home was of the same sense of pride that swarmed within his soul.

His clan had once been of the mighty Ansei, and he carried their shame with him eternally, as they were the bookkeepers who were to inscribe the Shehai Shen She Ru into history. But his clan had long since lost their records, and the Shehai had thus long since been wielded by his people. The Ansei were a culture of the past, and only the greatest of Sword-Singers could summon the Shehai, and even then it was unstable. It was because of this failure that Armandsen was sent away to recover what was lost.

It was not a banishment, but all the signs pointed to exactly that. He left his home against his own desire to fulfill a promise he never made, though the desire burned in his heart. Years had passed but he learned little, and still nights passed while the Shehai Shen She Ru yielded no results.

Bravil was a poor city with little to show for years of history, but Armandsen was following the teachings of an ancient battle-mage who fought with a conjured sword which Barbossa thought to be distinctively similar to the legendary Spirit Sword of the Sword-Singers, and he followed this trail to Bravil. He spent three days reviewing the libraries of the Mage's Guild, but no prospect of success was found. He left the halls a defeated man and retired to the tavern, where he had been spending coin at night for drinks and a bed.

The last few nights had been eventful. The guards were on high alert and he had overheard rumors of a disaster outside the city, but Armandsen was a secluded man who was only in this land for his personal mission, and did not delve too deeply into the happenings of a quiet and poor city. However, when he seated himself at the bar and threw his hood from over his head, he scanned the room and noticed a great deal of commotion this night.

He scanned again. Most of these people were no common citizens, but adventurers. Riches drove these men here, and many themselves already had a great deal of riches themselves. Armandsen suddenly felt out of place, as he was hiding from adventures to continue his mission, but the silver longsword sheathed at his side, hovering inches above the wooden floor, would suggest otherwise to the people in this tavern, people who would be able to tell an able warrior like himself from the common folk who simply wished to drain away misery of poverty in drink for a night.

18 of Rains Hand.

Adam awoke in the early night of a new day. He looked at his blue liquid and thought; Either I was tired or this potion is a syrup that makes you sleep if you have trouble... - He looked outside and see the night turn a dark blue as a sign that the sun was coming up. He decided to make a batch before the sun rose. He got all the ingrediants written on the charcoal board and followed the directions. Hours later he came up with six bottles.

The sun was arisen and it was the day. Adam went downstairs, equipped himself and walked outside, locking the door behind him. He paused at Silverhome on the Water and opened the door. Many men and beastfolk were inside, he could tell, pvssyr, drinks, clattering dishes and cuttlery was like music to him. He turned the corner, the group of people surrounded a table as townfolk walked back and forth. One khajiit moved and there she was. Karstine, there she was. He put his hood up and decided lean against a wall not to far from the group of people and Karst. He pulled out a book and pretends to read, in hopes she would notice him.

OOC: I'm way more comfortable in first person and I think it's easier to really get a characters feelings across, but if you want third person, just let me know. And oh, top notch stuff to the rest of you. I've read them all twice, thanks guys.

-Azrael Wolff-

"Karstine Zeterra, I am Big-Tree, at your service."

I looked at him still smiling.

His head hangs low, hands tied behind his back, sanguine tears drip out of the corner of his empty sockets and shards of bone stick of his legs, his feet have been severed. Scales have been torn off displaying raw flesh, teeth have been yanked and it's only the beginning.

I couldn't stop the thought from coming to my head, nor did I want to, I hated big guys. Always was something about them that pissed me off, mostly just because they were taller than me. Still, it would feel good to flay him alive. And than maybe dress him in the furs of that of that mountain lion on the other side of the table.

Sadly life is never that good to you. Unfortunately I would have to be working with these guys for a while, but if I became a god...

Don't get your hopes up. Rumors are rumors.

“Hey, Ka-”

“You're Karstine right?"

My smile widened a little more, barring my teeth, more a threat than a greeting. I couldn't believe he had just interrupted me, the little maggot. I began to feel my anger rise, something I need to work on as of late, a reason I tried not to drink. I needed something to calm me down, an image...

I had just turned fifteen and was given a dog for a present. A puppy really, it was energetic and playful, it ran all over the place and eagerly jumped all over me, licking me affectionately...Adorable really. With the influence of my magic I made it follow me down to our small oasis. An animals mind is always easier to control than a man's. I told it to swim out to the deep in, it did so, trembling. It reached to the center most point and sank, it's instincts told it to struggle, but I told it to stay. I touched it's mind and felt it's panic as the world slowly turned dark...It had been a glorious day, I laughed for five minutes right their on the banks, such a pathetic creature.

With that flashback I felt calm once again, even rejuvenated, it was one of my favorite moments. I waited until pleasantries were exchanged before actually getting up and grasping the young Kahjiit by the arm.

“How you doing Jo'Dhanar, the name's Wolff. Glad to meet someone else not sane enough to avoid this mad man's trip. Well enjoy your drink I am here if you need me.”

I felt completely relaxed while talking to him, I still wanted to thrust a quill through his eye, but it was more for amusemant than rage. Good.

I sat back down in a chair where I had a perfect view of Karstine, I could see in the light the way her body looked small but hid her muscles that rippled throughout her body with ever movement, not a single ounce of fat in sight. I took out a small canvas, they were expensive, I usually use parchment, but this was worth it.

First I did the outline of her in charcoal, first light lines connecting to form the out line of her body, the outline was important. With it I could show the mix of untamed beauty and hardened warrior, the lovely curves and delicate hands. Then came the showing of the powerful muscles then the shadowing.

It was ready for painting. I took a white lily out of my knapsack, I took one of the petals and chewed it thoroughly, making it like paste before mixing it with a small vial of water to form a sort of dye or paint. I painted in her body, the white of the canvas did not do the justice of the deep winter snow shade, the almost glowing white that was her fur. The black stripes they graced her body I did with charcoal.

A rose petal and a small amount of my blood I did for her hair, it had been gracefully combed back to stop right at her shoulder blades and I tired capturing the deep red warmth it presented, it reminded me of oak leaves in the fall.

Her eyes I took the most time on, getting the dark, rich emerald green that almost seem to give of a luminescent glow to them, they were the key component.

I was satisfied with my work, I thought it looked very good, a life like portrait.

Most painters can never capture their muse because they are blinded with love, my mind was not clouded with such a silly emotion. I could see her clearly. My only fault would the pride I had in my paintings, each one a difficult conquest in my life. Whatever happened in the next few months, she would be a key component.

I only ever paint a person twice. Once when their alive, once when their dead. I had completed her first painting.

I got up and left the crowded bar to gather my thoughts and wash my hands, after I had scrubbed until the flesh was tender, I was thinking very clearly. As I walked back into the bar I spotted a lone Redguard, at first I dismissed him as a beggar drowning his sorrows in alcohol. Then I saw the sword and his watchful gaze.

“Hey, you look a little too equipped to be a beggar, you hear for the expedition?”

I smiled, perhaps showing more teeth than I should have,

“Why don't come over to our table and I'll buy you a drink.”

I motioned him over as walked briskly back to the table, I picked up the painting and pulled up a chair right next to Karstine.

“I made this of you, though I don't think any paint on Tamriel could capture your beauty,”

I was hoping to lay on some more charm, there might have been some magic behind my words. But she had been suspicious of me before and honestly I had been suspicious of her. By this time I normally would've had walked away before she got past my facade.

But she was to be my leader, I needed to impress her to the best of my abilities, become her friend or lover. If the leader was on your side than you were safe from the rest of the group, like some kind of game.

“It's getting pretty late, should begin talking about...The proposition before people start getting frisking. I can wait all night if necessary, though, I think everyone has showed.”

ooc: Wow, Creepy character. First person can be confusing at times depending how you go. Might want to swap out the over use of I with the sentences.

ic: The human grabbed his arm and greeted him “How you doing Jo'Dhanar, the name's Wolff. Glad to meet someone else not sane enough to avoid this mad man's trip. Well enjoy your drink I am here if you need me.” spoke the Imperial, very odd indeed. The first thing Jodhan did was pull his arm away, touching was a way of showing familiarity or trying to gain such or hint at wanting to form a closeness to another on some level. The words, the sudden offer of potential assistance didn't sit well with him either. The Imperial dotted off to do something so Jodhan pulled up a seat and sat down at the table with karstine and the large group that had gathered. His tail slipped down to hang lightly near his dagger, if anything was to go wrong he could grab it quickly. Then the Imperial returned with what appeared to be a painting, a quick one at that.
“I made this of you, though I don't think any paint on Tamriel could capture your beauty,” he had said to her.

This was even more weird, this male was up to something potentially get in her bed or become her best new buddy. He had learned to read people like that, one didn;t survive long in the Telvanni without being able to read someone's true intentions, no matter how friendly or helpful they were. Especially those who would go so far and so..outright and overt it practically screamed Hey! I want something from you! Let me butter you up with this gift here! We can be right friends! they were the kind that would always stab you in the back later, be it directly or indirectly. Paranoia was one thing but this seemed to be more real than that. This imperial he didn't like already, not that he liked many at all. No matter what happened, the slightest move that would compromise whatever it was they were doing and he would be crucified beyond belief. But these thoughts were kept to himself, Jodhan relaxed at the table, studying everyone around him in a quiet contemplative manner. "Seems like someone is already trying to buy their way into another's..arms...as it would be." he spoke up finally. Wanting to annoy the Imperial more than anything else, see if his thoughts were true on the being. "Such an overt gift to another with such false charm layered into it and given to another whom you have barely met signifies you seek only one thing and that one thing I highly doubt you would ever gain."

Sarah laughed to herself about the comment of air headed women, she agreed completely. Even though she was a feminine woman and liked to take care of her appearance Sarah was no air head. Big-Tree placed a hand on her back and the two walked over to Karst, then the question arose that she was sure was the most pressing question on some people’s minds where when seeing here for the first time, after all it was unique

“I must ask, where did you find the armor of the Auriel?" which was not long followed by the question

"As for the gate, I have my own suspicions. Do you know of Sheogorath?"

“It’s a fairly long story, I’ll give you the short version if you wish to know more please ask me later. I used to… do things for the legion, I can’t say what but I was sent to observe a Daedric cult. It went wrong and they found me and attacked, fighting the cultists themselves was no problem but then, one of the Auriels appeared. They are excellent in combat, fast and tough she landed a good hit on me hence the scar on my stomach but I bested her and took the equipment, Armor, Sword, Bow and Quiver.” She brushed her hand over the scar on her stomach, caused by the blade that she now wielded herself no less

“I don’t know if you can tell but I had the suit modified, it’s more light weight and I have had the shoulder pads reduced in size took a while to find a smith who could do the task and then even longer for it to be finished” Approaching the table Sarah answered Big-Tree’s other question

“Yes I do know of Sheogorath, it’s suspected that the cult I went to observe was that of Sheogorath, after all how many cults do you know that will infest a village with Rats? Also it makes sense, the Auriels are servants of Sheogorath so it makes sense for one to be there. Well Big-Tree I shall leave you to speak to Karst, I do not wish to crowd her I shall speak to her in a little while. It was nice meeting you Big-Tree I hope we have fun on this venture together” Sarah stepped away from Big-Tree towards the bar and ordered some more wine.
Sarah turned to see the Nord who had entered earlier approaching her with Mead and a spare glass

“Evening milady,” he said with a smile

“I assume you’re here for the same reason as everyone else? Perhaps a drink to past the time?” Sarah was somewhat flattered by the gesture, it had been a long time since somone had offered to buy her a drink, but Mead didn’t sit well with her

“Thank you for the kind gesture, But Mead does not sit well with me, it… makes me angry then give’s me a headache like a Daedroth screaming in your ear, I’m more of a wine person” she said as she raised her glass

“please take no offence to me turning down your drink, I am Sarah by the way and you?”

The two were joined by a Kahjiit

"how goes it for you two?" The Kahjiit spoke up

“Ah, good morning Just waiting to speak to Karst I don’t wish to swamp her, I’m Sarah”

The introduction seemed to be going well, apart from the obnoxious outburst coming from a newly arrived Nord; he knew it was directed at him, who else in this establishment looked like a ‘tiger’. Though he wasn’t a tiger, although he felt like explaining to the Nord he could always pick that up later, right now he had his attention on Karst. However not even that introduction went over well, she turned around to greet him but only to utter a half-choked scream, and halfway jumped off her seat, he could see her tail fluffed as if something had startled her. She smiled then followed by a slight blush of embarrassment, Ren’ assumed she had never seen a pahmar before. They were rare outside Elsweyr so her reaction was not unfounded, even if it was quite awkward, then she spoke her name bowing back as he had done. As far as customs went Ren’ was flexible he used them only when others did; best ways to avoid misunderstandings and confusion.

“I apologize for the scare.” He spoke ears folding back with a slightly embarrassed smile on his face, Cyrodillic grammar sounded so odd to his ears, but then he had only recently been actively using it.

As she offered her hand the pahmar was slightly confused for a second, but realized she was offering an opportunity to know her scent. He could smell her from where he was standing yet he decided to comply with her offer, a brief whiff of her hand. She seemed a bit tense around him, well he felt tense in this environment so maybe they affected each other. An ear swirled in the direction of the tavern entrance as yet another person entered Ren’ knew what it was before it even rounded the corner; another Khajiit, a Cathay-raht; that made it two of them. The pahmar had always been under the impression that the most common Khajiit outside the borders were Ohmes’ and Suthay’s the former one made sense, if it hadn’t been for his mother he would’ve been denouncing the Ohmes as not being a Khajiit at all.

The new Khajiit arrival took a seat, Ren’s gaze was darting between the imperial and the Khajiit Jo’Dhanar apparently tensions were growing especially considering the Cathay-raht’s brash comment, whatever the reasons for his comments the pahmar had to agree with his fellow feline, the imperial’s behavior was just… odd. Acting like a love struck yearling, Ren’ knew courting behavior when he saw it but personally he favored discretion and modesty, over over-the-top charms, the latter had the potential to seem rather falsified. However he didn’t dare question Karst’s ability to discern true affection from false, but still if he had been her he’d keep that imperial under close scrutiny. The pahmar knew he could add something but he'd rather keep his mouth shut, Karst was at the center of this foolishness so it was not in his place to comment.

Sarah told Big-Tree of the story of how she earned her armor. He admired the girl for her spirit, and her bravery. The Auriel, or more commonly known as Golden Saints to those who know little of Sheogorath, were a proud race and skilled fighters. To best one in single combat would be quite a feat. It did disturb Big-Tree, however, that she had killed worshipers of Sheogorath. Then again, the chaos that was caused in the village he knew of, and the one Sarah had investigated, was met with another kind of chaos: Justice. It was a principle that Big-Tree held with respect, that chaos will be met with another form of itself. With this, Sarah departed for the bar after a brief farewell. Big-Tree also did not want to crowd Karstine, thinking it rude. So he decided to see to another matter.


Living in Vvardenfell for much of his life had taught Big-Tree something. Living under the rule of the Dunmer and Imperials, as well as being surrounded by murderers and thieves in the cities. It was how to spot one, a look, a gesture perhaps. That very same wicked smile the Imperial man had given him, the way he schmoozed and sauntered so unnaturally about the crowd. He had left for the bar, and Big-Tree nodded politely nodded to Karst, and turned to head for the Imperial man. Big-Tree was not a violent Argonian at heart, but the way this man so arrogantly hid his nature behind a mask of false niceties... well, it struck a nerve.

The large Argonian put a hand on the Imperials' shoulder and whispered into his ear, "I have a riddle for you. What is long, sharp, and may be used in a moments notice? I will give you two hints... murderer." Big-Tree whispered, the last bit meant to be a warning. "It is neither your tongue, or your blade. By Sheoth, if you so much as pass a harsh word to one of these good people, you will know suffering... this is something I can promise." With this, he patted the man on the shoulder, hoping the threat would sink in. Somehow though, Big-Tree almost knew the man would simply shrug it off, Worth a try I guess?

Big-Tree then decided to go and perhaps sit with more friendly company. He soon found Sarah speaking to a Nord and two Khajiit. He introduced himself to his fellow "beast-men", although it was a word he never liked. "Good evening, I am Big-Tree. I won't even bother to ask why you're here. But... are you here about the gate?" He also slipped his flask of brandy from his belt and seemed to produce a small goblet from nowhere, Where did that come from? Oh yes, the Waterfront. Knew it would come in handy! Big-Tree realized, things he picked up had a tendency to be useful later on. He poured brandy into the small goblet and offered it to Sarah, "Perhaps a drop of brandy will be more like a Scamp's nails on stone?" He said with a wry smile.

Adam thought it bored to keep reading. He put away his book and seen the group of khajiit. a few imperials. a redguard, two nords, one of them seemed to be a halfbreed of a breton. and an argonian. Adam looked at the Argonian and beautiful imperial woman, though listening on their conversation, as he did with everyone elses. He approached the group of the nord, two khajiitt, the argonian and Sarah. He stopped halfway, then looked around. He was shy, and nervous to meet new people, though everyone he met first time always found him weird. A healer mage that takes more lives then he heals with his restoration magic, a alchemist that can produce drinks, brews a strange new potions, as well as a swordsman. A strange outlook to see amongst a Wood Elf who takes up Healing. - Adam walked back to the side of the wall, in hopes someone would come to him instead, despite his timidness of the moment that had arisen around him, but instead he decided to walk back to the group and introduce himself, he did not like big groups of adventurers talking, though he would probably meet them eventually. He walked back to the group.

Adam was behind the argonian known as Big-Tree and the imperial Sarah, with them a nord and two khajiit. He spoke out to the group looking up at everyone.
"Greetings Men and Mer, and uh.. Woman. I am Adam, you might have heard of me? The healer that saved the lives of many during the Oblivion Crisis, tis I, Adam." He said, holding his hand out for a hand shake towards whoever would shake his hand.

Clengo had been standing in a darkened corner of the tavern ever since his arrival. His small stature ---he didn’t stand all that much higher than the tables themselves---had let his presence go unnoticed. Unsure of what to do next, and frightened at the sight of some of the more imposing figures, he had vouched to stay where he was and get a feeling of the room. It seemed to be mostly filled with adventurers that were here for the same purpose as he was.

As Clengo eyed their shining armor and large weapons, he couldn’t help but feel inadequate. He reached into his satchel and pulled out two tubes, which he linked together with a sharp twist. This was his blowgun, and he was quite proud of it, having made it out of bits of trash he had found while staying in the Imperial City. But compared to the weapons on display here, it looked like a toy more than anything else. He quickly took it apart and stuffed it into the bottom of his satchel before returning his gaze to the adventurers around the room.

He was quickly able to pick out the leader; a she-Khajiit to whom the others prostrated themselves, whether through offering a hand, bowing deeply, or by offering gifts. Clengo in particular watched a man present a painting that he had done, just minutes before, to the she-Khajiit as a sign of good intent. This pleased Clengo. In his own village, gift-giving was a custom that displayed great mutual respect between a follower and a leader. He at first wondered if the she-Khajiit would return the favor, but then, with bone-chilling horror, Clengo realized that he didn’t have a worthy gift to give. He rifled through his bag somewhat frantically. He had a few coins that he kept well polished, along with some odds and ends and bits which he was sure would only bring him dishonor to offer as a gift.

Feeling a bit hopeless, Clengo trembled slightly, which only made him feel more ashamed. Trembling! In the presence of such brave warriors, who have endured such greater terrors than he? And he! A warrior of his tribe! Trembling! How shameful the whole thing was. He was here to restore his honor, not to squander it completely. He grabbed a table to steady himself, but he was unable to garnish the resolve to approach and to do what he needed to do. Then, to his complete amazement, a Bosmer (a mathmeldi, of all dishonorable things) spoke up to the crowd.

OOC: Seems like I already got a nice set of enemies, wonderful! This is sure to be interesting and sorry Adam, Jonas, and Siberia, nothing personal but I don't think were going to be the best of pals.

-Azrael Wolff-

"Seems like someone is already trying to buy their way into another's..arms...as it would be. Such an overt gift to another with such false charm layered into it and given to another whom you have barely met signifies you seek only one thing and that one thing I highly doubt you would ever gain."

A look of indignant hurt crossed my face, it would have been perfect if not for the lack of emotion my eyes held, no matter the face I made, the eyes usually disturbed them. That's why I wore the hood.

“Buy...How...I would never! You've have obviously never been in touch with the arts, she is a great muse, she was inspiration to my work, I had the desire to paint and so I did...And your seeking something sinister behind that? In some cultures a gift to another is just a simple greeting, I find irritating that your so ignorant.”

Some real emotion was mixed with it for I truly did take pride in my paintings, but I this Kahjiit was beginning to see through me, if I got him angry enough he might turn on me and that would ruin his reputation with the group. So I decided to do the most annoying thing any person could do to an enemy,

“But I understand how we can't all be knowledgeable in every aspect of life...I forgive you.”

I could barely suppress a laugh, I just kept smiling. It was something I was good at, though at this rate my face might just end up frozen as a smile.

"I have a riddle for you. What is long, sharp, and may be used in a moments notice? I will give you two hints... murderer."

The reptilian whisper in my ear made my smile falter for a mere moment before it returned, I calmed my self with thought of feeding him with his own eyeballs as his mother and father watched, delightful. At any rate I shrugged him off, I would have to be careful of just about everyone in the group, they all seemed to hate me, I had never met a more perceptive group of strangers.

I turned back to Karstine,

“Go ahead and keep the painting,” I glared at Jo'Dhanar

“I'll just move to the back if you don't mind, apparently I am not welcome by your companions.”

I got up and moved to the back, hoping my words would get her angry at Jo'Dhanar, that would be delightful, as time wore on I focused my thoughts on the future...

People lay stretch out on trees, nailed to them and left to rot in the sun, the birds pick at their eyes and their dry mouths offer a croak of a scream. Their offspring are left to watch in horror as the sun slowly bakes them before finally I the height of their pain, the trees are lit on fire and they are burned to death. The smell of burning flesh fills the air, on one of the trees was the Kahjiit and on the other was Big-Tree, both squirming in agony.

If only...If only...If only I could become a GOD.

I let out a small chuckle without realizing it, my eyes had been closed, I had started to nod off for some reason, the warmth of the room was too relaxing...That brought me back to full attention, I was alarmed that I had let me defenses down for a brief second.

"Greetings Men and Mer, and uh.. Woman. I am Adam, you might have heard of me? The healer that saved the lives of many during the Oblivion Crisis, tis I, Adam."

My eyes swiveled to him, my nostrils flared, and then my face went back to the smile.

A healer...A [censored] healer, gut him, slit his throat, choke him with his own intestines. How dare he heal the weak, thinks he some kind of noble, doing good for the sake of it? They all deserved to die!

Healers were my enemies, but I swallowed my resentment and instead I walked up to him slowly and offered my hand:

“I can't believe it's you Adam...I heard what you did, your...Your just as much a hero as Karstine, it's a pleasure to meet you, really.”

Too much charm? Probably. I hated this guy with every fiber of my being, more than than Jo'Dharan and Big-Tree

Iver Letholdus the Defender

Though Sarah had not accepted his drink, Iver still remained the same, as many people don't drink his drinks. He did find her reply to bit quite humorous and let out another slight smile.

About that same time, a Kahjiit came walking up and introduced himself to the group. "Hail, how goes it for you two?" Sarah had mentioned the same excuse he had to not go see Karst.

“Ah, good morning Just waiting to speak to Karst I don’t wish to swamp her, I’m Sarah”

"About the same as her," Iver said, "By the way, my name's Iver Letholdus the Defender," He said, while looking at both the Kahjiit and Sarah.

After finishing his sentence, a strange looking Mer came out of no where and offered up his greetings, and his hand to anyone willing. Iver and Mer do not have a good track record, you could say, thanks to the raid on his village years ago, but alas, they did a great dead for him, for without their honorableness ways, he would never be here, in this tavern. So he let the past remain where it belonged, in the past, and quickly offered up his own greetings to Mer.

"Greetings Adam, my name is Iver and I think I'll let the others introduce themselves," Iver then reached out his own hand to shake Adam's, thinking nothing of it. Though he did find his part about the Oblivion Crisis mention to be rather intriguing, and figured he reiterate that topic sometime along the road, wanting to know the whole story.

After shaking hands with Adam, a strange looking Imperial came up and offered his own hand, though, he did so with a rather strange remark.

“I can't believe it's you Adam...I heard what you did, your...Your just as much a hero as Karstine, it's a pleasure to meet you, really.”

Perhaps he is just a bit strange? Iver though to himself, though he didn't take anything from that comment, he vowed to himself to watch him closely, along with everyone else here, you can never be too prepared.

[ooc] I normally hate 'villain on purpose' characters and first person RPing, but Yttrium, you do it great. I don't know if Karst will like him, but I do. [/ooc]

It had been a long time since Karst had felt overwhelmed like this. She grabbed her drink once Ren was done smelling her and took a respectable draw from it to calm herself. The human that made her uneasy left, at least for the time being, though she still pondered at his motives; he could be trying to seduce her like many others had, to have a celebrity as a notch on their bedpost, or he could simply be a very oddly friendly person.

'Or he could be getting my guard down so he can kill me. For all I know, he's Mythic Dawn and pissed off about it.'

She turned back to Ren as he apologized and smiled kindly.

"No need. I've just been way from Elsweyr for so long, I'm not used to non-upright Khajiit anymore," she offered as explanation for her behavior. She didn't want him to think she thought he was inferior to her for not being humanoid, so she quickly added, "It'll be good to have another of my own at my side, for sure." There, that should dispel any doubt that she thought of him as an equal. Still, she felt bad about startling at the sight of him. She shook it off, though, with another drink. The paper under the glass stuck to it from some of the mead that'd dripped over the edge and fell, unfolding in her lap. She sighed and looked down, noticing that there was.. Daedric written on it. Taken by surprise, she quickly folded it up before anyone could notice and stuck it in her coat pocket. Then Azrael returned, holding something and pulling up a chair right next to her, then offering the object to her, a piece of canvas. She looked at it in puzzlement for a moment before he explained what it was.

“I made this of you, though I don't think any paint on Tamriel could capture your beauty,” he stated matter-of-factly. Karst took it and looked at it. The portrait of her, she had to admit, was flattering and well done. And he'd obviously made it in a mere few minutes. It was at this point that she began to wonder if he was just a lovestruck guy admiring her for her fame, and she felt a sudden pang of guilt for her earlier suspicions about him. Perhaps she was indeed just paranoid, and this guy was no more threat to her than anyone else. She accepted the painting with a small smile and a 'thank you' before he spoke again.

“It's getting pretty late, should begin talking about...The proposition before people start getting frisking. I can wait all night if necessary, though, I think everyone has showed.”

Karst looked up at him from the small painting and nodded. "Yeah, you're right. Just.. give me a moment," she excused herself from her drink and slipped outside through the crowd for a moment. She nodded at a guard standing on the porch of the establishment, then went around beside the place and pulled a small metal container from her pocket. She slid a cigarette, made by her own hand as all of hers were, from the little tin and, with a spark from her fingertips, lit it and put it between her pale lips. Whilst taking a drag from it, Karst retrieved the paper from her pocket, with the small bit of mead stickying up one side of it, and unfolded it. Whoever it was from knew she could read it, for one, so it had to be someone who knew her rather personally.

Dear Karst,

I saw one of your posters a while ago and jumped at the chance to get back in touch with you. You're a difficult woman to find, you know, for someone famous. I'm coming along on your venture, but you can't contact or even acknowledge me until we're at least out of town. I'm sure you understand. I'm always being watched for by someone. Talk to you soon, though, and enjoy your drink.

Love,
Mia

Folding it back up and replacing it in her coat, Karst smiled, and walked back inside, flicking her spent smoke in the alley as she left it. She turned the corner past the guard and jumped at the sight of one of her own race for the second time this morning, though it was a little different this time. A Khajiit of her same coloring, save for his snowy hair, stood on the other side of the doorway from the guard, reclining against the wood and smirking at her. His cool blue eyes smiled at her and the Akaviri-designed armor covering his body shone in the morning sun.

"Hey, punk," he greeted her simply, pushing himself off the wall and walking forward to meet her. Karst climbed up him and wrapped her arms around his neck, and he laughed as some of her hair stuck to his wet, black nose.

"Zant!" Karst cried happily as the man pried her off him and set her in front of him, "Thought you weren't gonna make it."

"I wouldn't miss seeing my sister off for the world. Just got caught up in a little office politics. Probably gonna get [censored]ed out when I go back, but," the Khajiit waved a gauntleted hand dismissively, "I'll deal with that later. How are ya?"

"Good considering I've got moths in my guts for the first time in ages about something, but I'll live. C'mon, you can watch me yell at people,"

Chuckling, Karst's brother followed her inside as she strode through the door clapping her hands.

"Hey, everyone who's here about the posters, shut up an' listen!" she yelled, thankful she had a powerful voice for her size. There was a hint of playfulness in the command, but she really did hope they'd be quiet for a moment. She hopped gracefully up on her own table and addressed her audience. Zan'Tarre remained by the doorway, smiling.

"Anyone who thinks we're here on some kind of epic quest summons, you're horridly wrong. Truth is, I have no idea where in hell I'm taking you lot," she began, just speaking as something came to her. She jerked a thumb in the direction of the bay nearby. "There's an island out there in the Niben with a gate on it, and Gods only know what's beyond it. All I know is I need you guys to get past it and figure out what's behind it. My reasons are my own, but unless you've got a reason of yours, I'd honestly suggest leaving. I have no doubt it'll probably be dangerous there. No one will think less of you if you cut and run now. If you're still interested, meet me at the docks in a few minutes."

Karst looked down at the people around her and felt like she ought to say something more. "That's uh.. all I suppose. Not much of a speech, but now you know why I kept my trap shut at the ceremony six years ago, eh?"

Hopping down into her seat again, she took down the last bit of her mead and, seeing the barmaid who'd served it to her walk by, winked covertly at her, hoping it was Mia. She'd let people get introductions in for a bit before leaving, but for now, she was going to relax a bit. She had the feeling she'd be doing very little of that once she got past that gate.

(I sent a PM to Aula about this, but from today until next Tuesday it's all studying for finals and writing research papers. I might try and make some posts along the way just so I don't completely disappear, but all in all I won't have time to make great posts until I get home at the end of the semester. So if I disappear, just assume my character is following the party in recluse, as he is a sort of reclusive type. Then when I return he can start to open up to the group.)

As soon as Armandsen's eyes drifted from the party of adventurers back down to the rim of the glass he was about to bring to his lips, he heard a man beckon him. It seems his wandering eyes had gotten the better of him.

“Hey, you look a little too equipped to be a beggar, you hear for the expedition?” A quite loud and frankly strange man inquired, “Why don't come over to our table and I'll buy you a drink.”

Barbossa remained silent for a moment, but at last he brought the glass to his lips and lifted the bottom until the ale it held was all but consumed. Placing it back upon the bar, his glance strayed back to the table of adventurers once again. He allowed a small smirk to mark his face, and he stood up.

"I would almost guarantee my expedition and yours are quite different. But if you would buy me a drink, I should not decline."

He sat by the rigid crew and quietly drank, leaning back and learning all about the gathering. He heard words sent around he knew little of, and some he recognized but never took it upon himself to truly study. Sheogorath seemed to be the focus of the group, or rather, the realm of Sheogorath. The leader of the group, the one who spread the posters that attracted so many mercenaries, began speaking of a portal to this realm. He did not know her, but he gathered from the context of the conversation that she was a Champion of Cyrodiil, one of those that drove the daedra from Cyrodiil. She had gained Armandsen's respect before so much as addressing him.

"Unless you've got a reason of yours, I'd honestly suggest leaving."

She spoke, and for some reason Barbossa was not one of those who began to fizzle out. As she sat down to relieve herself of stress for the time being, Armandsen leaned in to speak to her.

"My name is Armandsen Barbossa, I hail from Hammerfell. My home has forsaken me to my duty, yet my duty has forsaken me from my home. It is mere chance that I have found myself here at the start of your expedition, but perhaps there is use for me outside of the pages of books of legend. I know not where you travel to, but perhaps such a bend in my destiny is what I require."

He could tell she probably wished to be by herself for the moment, so with that he leaned back, taking in a swig of ale.

"I will see you at the docks."

That was enough from him for the moment. He didn't know these people, and they knew nothing of his mission. Perhaps they could help him in the future, but that was a long road's away.

Sarah noticed a Bosmer join their small group by the bar, he denounced himself as a healer which was different for a Bosmer. The Nord announced himself as Iver and shook the bosmer’s hand. Sarah was going to stay wary, everyone here was being rather friendly and she still didn’t know who was trust worthy.

Karst gracefully jumped up on the table with ease due to her athletic body, Sarah gave her complete attention to Karst. After the announcement Sarah chuckled a little bit and made her way towards Karst

“So, you don’t know what we are going to do on the other side of that door or whats on the other side? Well Karst, I’m in, I’m Sarah by the way. I’m going to head over to the island now I’ll meet you and the others over there” With that she smiled at Karst and walked out the door.

It was probably about midday, the sun shined of her golden armour as she walked through town to the gates and over the bridge. Walking along the bank to the spot where she had thrown the Mudcrab earlier she checked the stability of her weapons, Satisfied with them she dove in. The swim was chilled and relaxing, arriving on the island Karst had mentioned, strange fauna growing all over the island and the door itself, well it was nothing like she had ever seen before. Walking up the small path to the door’s mouth there was a couple of guards here

“Hello guys nice day for a swim huh” Sarah said as she wringed the water out of her hair.

This evidently was speech-making time. It was now or never. Clengo closed his eyes tightly, remembering what he could of the ceremonies that preceded days when the Bosmer warriors of his tribe would go off to war. He hadn't been old enough when he was sent as captive to the Imperial City (a measly 35) to join the warriors of his tribe in their solemn oaths to their chief before they would march off to war, but he remembered every bit of it. He knew that, someday, it would be his time to perform the sacred oaths to his chief and tribe before marching off to war. He had trained all of his life for this honor. And although he didn't expect his chief to be a Khajiit, or to be doing it in a tavern that smelled of sweet rolls, or for complete strangers to overhear his vows, but knew that the moment was here.

Steadily, he approached the Khajiit from the shadows, reaching into the pouch around his neck and drawing from it an ivory dagger that ominously gleamed in the lantern light of the cavern. His eyes fixed on the Khajiit's face as he approached, neither shifting nor blinking, ignoring those that stood around her, and stopped just paces away from her.

"I AM CLENGO," he said as loudly as he could without screaming. "I am Boiche, of Y'ffre the Storyteller, who's teachings I listen to and obey with the entirety of my soul. Let his favor shine upon us, and may his majesty be the witness to which the oath I am about to utter. And if I were to break it, may Y'ffre's full wrath come down upon me and rob me of that which he has given!"

With those words, he drew the ivory knife across his palm, leaving a fine cut that quickly drew blood. Clengo held his bleeding hand above him so that all present might see it.

"This is my blood," he said "Which I give to you. May my blood be a service to you for now and forever, until the daedra grow old in their beds and Magnus runs out of bug-wax to fuel his candles that light Aetherius."

He quickly stepped towards the she-Khajiit and brought his wounded hand down upon her forehead before she could move. A small drop of blood ran from beneath his palm and down her nose.

"Arctavoy, Abagaianye," he commanded, continuing to look directly into her eyes. "Acknowledge, I have no fear."

For a moment, he waited for her affirmation with bated breath, his palm feeling warm against her forehead.

[ooc] Whoops! Edited to correct typo. Y'ffre is the god I want. [/ooc]

all i can say is poor sarah! shes getting almost as much attention from the men as karst is from the adventurers xD

The girl watched absent mindly as the others began to enter through the inn, her eyes glaring at the Bosmer healer, claiming to have done much in the crisis. Funny, I don't recall him at all... and to have one boast about healing others is despicable... Healers do not care about fame and glory for their deeds, all they should care about is the wellbeing and safety of those they heal... That’s what I did, and that’s what I continued to do... Mia thought to herself as she turned away a little flustered at the thought of someone boasting when so many had died.. The thought of losing those people made her hands tremble in anger, her eyes flashing between her silver and emerald green before returning back to her silver colour as she went back to work.

However as she was to go back to work, a familiar voice was heard at the entrance of the inn and Karst calling out confirmed who it was. But she was not happy to see him as much as his sister was... after all he was still working for the people who wanted her dead, even if he didn't, and for that she couldn't help but wonder if he was followed as much as Karst had been. But he was smarter than that, and he was after all the reason she was at this place. Seeing that the trickle of people began to stop coming in, Mia knew that it was going to be time to leave soon as her friend began her speech. Removing the apron and placing it on the bar she looked at Gilgondorin.

"Time for me to get going Gilgondorin, I did tell you I had something I had to take care of, and I won't be coming back to work. I'm sure you can find some other pretty little thing to do your work for you" the barmaid said and turned around seeing Karst winking at her making the Breton cover her face with her palm. "So subtle Karst... so very subtle...” she muttered to herself as she walked towards the entrance with the altmer yelling after her. "You aren't getting paid for today if you leave now!" making her turn around and shrug. "I was only here for the meeting anyways i just needed a job to overhear" she replied and as she walked past Zant she stopped briefly.

"Thanks for the info; I just hope you weren’t followed this time... I don't want Karst to worry about me so soon after letting her know I’m here" Mia whispered to him as she patted the Khajitt on the shoulder as she left the inn and went around the back to her room. the Breton let herself fall on the bed with a thud as her mind continued to process what was going on and what would happen to her when she reached the gate. There were only a few that could be considered a threat to her wellbeing, but with Karst as the leader they wouldn't even want to dare to try a thing... The healer she would have to teach a lesson, because he seemed a little too full of himself with that introduction... the other two Khajitt that were there were definitely rare sights in these lands.

I wonder if he would let me ride him like a horse Demona thought briefly

What do you think... I would rather not piss off a Khajitt built like that even if that is an amusing thoug- no it isn’t amusing it’s not a amusing thing at all he is a sentient being!

You are just no fun Mia and I thought that we were becoming more alike..

Mia sighed and just lay there for a few moments before getting back up to pack what little things she had lying around. As the Breton was gathering her things, her hand brushed against the desk, causing a ring to fall to the ground. "Oh!" she gasped as she picked down frantically to pick it up.. A silver ring that had both half a diamond and ruby cased in. Her thoughts about the ring instantly surfaced.. As well as the thoughts about the one who had gave her the ring. It had been five years and she still hadn't been able to get back in contact with Vivian, making her wonder if she would ever see him again.. To see the smile on his face when was with him.

"Please be okay Vivian" she whispered to no one as she placed the rind back in its box and into her pack. After a quick bath and changed into her familiar white short-sleeved shirt and skirt, it was time for her to leave for the docks ahead of Karst and the others.. After all she couldn't be seen as herself until she left this place and was far away from all authority and any prying eyes that would want to try and get the bounty on her. Locking the door behind her, the girl began to make her way out of the unclean and swampy town of Bravil, feeling the fresher breeze that came from the hills brush against her skin, the wind fluttering through the red hair of her illusionary form.

"It will feel so much better being myself.. Well my version of myself anyways" she said to no one in particular as she gazed at the docks on the outskirts of the town. It would have been a good idea to go to the docks but she had a better idea. having her shoes already enchanted for water-walking, Mia was able to walk towards the island through the mist that covered the lake. even though there may not have been many eyes at the docks, it was smart to assume there was and take her own route to the island.

Reaching her destination, Mia noticed that the imperial woman in the golden armour had already beaten her, and from the looks of things she had gone for a swim. She wouldn't know who she was even if she noticed the girl working at the inn so the breton looked her way briefly before looking at the gate that they were to enter. "Well.. this is certainly a way to stay far from the reaches of the blades.." she said quietly as a brief flash of emerald green light illuminated around her, dull to reveal the dark haired healer. Now that she was far from anyone that would be a threat, she didn't need the illusion. With that out of the way she waited for the others to come her way, paying no heed to the guards that were standing there.. from the looks of things they had no idea who she as anyway and would have seen way too much crazy to even bother asking.

urgh i hate editng, but since i havent been replied to, i altered things a little probably affects you more than anything venix but not in any major way as a conversation starter =p

OOC: Short post, but I've had a long and strange day.

Soon enough, all of the pleasantries were out of the way, and Big-Tree had met most of the band one way or another. It was only then that Karstine walked into the small inn and told everyone the business they were to attend to. The gate in the Niben had not yet been explored, and not even Karstine knew what lay beyond it. The excitement within the big Argonian was growing, it was almost palpable! With these last few words, many of the group were already out the door. Sarah was practically halfway to the island. Big-Tree himself walked over to Karstine, "My apologies milady, I am Big-Tree. I fought near Cyrodiil on the borders of Morrowind, it was rumors of you Champions that gave us hope when my crew and I were nearly broken of spirit."

He took a seat nearby, uncorking his brandy and taking a swig. Big-Tree's curiosity got the best of him, "I must ask, why the gate? I have decided to join for my own curiosity, I suspect the work of... well that isn't important. But surely you must have some reason, otherwise you would not have attracted so many eager faces." Big-Tree drew his fine cutlass from his hip, then a whetstone from his satchel, and began to sharpen it. Somehow, he knew it would see a decent amount of use in strange realm he was to enter.

So much for drinking more mead

After all was done and Iver got to know a few of his future companions, Karst jumped right up onto her table and gave a short and to the point speech about what was what. Iver quickly downed the rest of his mead before noticing his little party had all but disappeared as many left to go speak with Karst, yet again, and as others left to go to the docks.

Will I never get a chance to introduce myself?

Whether or not it was custom to first introduce yourself he didn't care, he knew she was already swamped with people and he didn't want to add to the fray. Out of no where though, he saw another Bosmer approaching Karst, but this was different then the most. He reached for his dagger and drew out, at the same time, Iver reached for his Steel Longsword and drew it half way out, if he was to step any closer, he'd lop off his head. Fortunately, or sadly, the Bosmer was merely making a quite. . . unique introduction, along with cutting his palm and wiping the blood on Karst's forehead. He put his sword back into it's sheath and looked around the room once more.

Realizing he had a bit more time left, he ordered one last mug of Nordic Mead and set out for the docks, walking ever so slowly as to enjoy this last bit of freedom and safety, for as soon as he made it to that island and went through that gate, he would not get anymore of it.

While walking through the city of Bravil, he noticed the Fighters Guild lodge, and he made his way inside, hoping to find some better armor for rather free as he didn't have much money.

I really should learn to stop spending all my gold and save up some of it.

As soon as he walked in, he was greeted by the local Porter and asked him if he could see about getting a better suit of armor.

"I'm afraid I cant, all I can do it is try to repair that armor you have there, but I cant promise much."

Iver let out a large sigh, "Very well. Do what you can."

After a couple of minutes, the Porter gave Iver back his armor, and to his dismay, found that it looked like rather new armor. It was still Iron and of low quality, mind you, but still, it looked brand new. He thanked the Porter and offered to give him what gold he had but the Porter refused, saying, "It's the least I can do for another guild mate brother."

Iver proudly stepped outside with new life, and walked to the dock with a bit more of a haste. Once he got there, he found no one from the tavern there, so he assumed they were still there. He found himself some sailors and asked if he could rent a boat, "Nothing to big, we're just going to that island out in the midst."

And as soon as though words left his mouth, the sailors eyes' grew huge, and they stood there with shock, unwavering.

"Uh-um-here, you can have this boat, free of charge," one of the sailors finally said, and just like that, they were both practically running away from the docks.

Iver stood there for a moment, puzzled, but non the less, he made preparations on the boat for everyone coming. He would have just enough room for them all. He smiled and sat at the edge of the docks, drinking his mug of mead, waiting for the others.

“Buy...How...I would never! You've have obviously never been in touch with the arts, she is a great muse, she was inspiration to my work, I had the desire to paint and so I did...And your seeking something sinister behind that? In some cultures a gift to another is just a simple greeting, I find irritating that your so ignorant.” the tone was so...well it had emotion in it but the body language was a different story. This imperial was on the high part of his dislike list.

“But I understand how we can't all be knowledgeable in every aspect of life...I forgive you.”

Oh he hurts me so! thought Jodhan with a grin, Was this imperial so stuck with an insult that he couldn't think of something that this Khajiit hadn't heard before? It probably wasn't the same as some of the things he had encountered but there was definitely the intone of some racism there or some intone of him being uncultured. What would an Imperial know of culture? Seeing as they destroy whatever culture that isn't the same as their own. he thought and just grinned at the imperial. Knowing full well that this would aggravate him to no end, much like argumentative customers whom had gotten his enchanting services, he was cheaper than mages guild as long as they supplied the soul gem. And they would complain the enchantment was not what they wanted or to weak. Ahh the fun times that was.

He noticed another in the room, another khajiit whom was well.. definitely a catch. Potentially a mate for young karst? They did have that act between them, despite the male being dressed in akaviri armour. Then karst made her speech, which funnily enough was short and sweet. Much like she was, but with a rather potent voice. He spotted a khajiit he didn't see before! A Pahmer! Normally they were bad tempered from what he had experienced in Elsweyr but this one seemed less willing to bite your face off. He got up and headed over to the pahmer and crouched abit to get to face level with the big cat. "You are a Pahmer right?" he asked the feline. "Haven't seen one of you out this far from Elsweyr." he offered a hand to the beast.

Juhanor - Heading Out

Karst was still encircled by a large group of people, so Juhanor wasn't going to be speaking with her anytime soon. After she made her announcement, both the golden-armored woman and the Nordic man left the bar; as such, Juhanor now stood alone. Well, I don't have any money, so drinks are out of the question. Cordus doesn't know me, so I'm not going to be bothering him. And most of these people seem to be slightly.... off. Then again, who am I to judge? Juhanor rubbed one of his powerful hands over his face. Alright, I guess I'll head out as well. No point in sticking around if we're all going to the docks anyways. The Cathay-raht brushed past the crowds of adventurers, shouldered open the rough wooden door, and made his way out of the city.

Soon enough, Juhanor arrived at the docks; off in the distance, he could see a faint glow, slightly obscured by the mist that covered the lake. The Nord was already there; he was standing by a boat, just large enough for the assembled group. Might as well head out now; no point in waiting around and crowding the boat up. Juhanor dived into the lake and began to swim towards the gate. He quickly arrived at the island; a large variety of brilliant flora dotted the rocky outcropping. Never seen anything as gaudy as this before, except for that orb in Saarthal. The Khajiit climbed up out of the water and shook himself off. Buckets of water slid off of his thick fur, landing about his feet and splashing upon the ground. A nearby plant seemed to reach out for the liquid, its gaping maw opening and closing in a pathetic futility.

Juhanor continued up the well-hewn path; it was clear that the one who'd placed this island here wanted it to be easily accessible. That, coupled with the brilliant flowers, turned this seemingly normal island into an increasingly malicious deathtrap. The gate, a multi-faced monstrosity carved out of grey stone, shone brightly in front of the Khajiit. Four people were gathered about it; the golden armored woman, two guards, and a newcomer. Someone else for the quest? Not irregular, but it is odd that she'd come directly here without meeting anyone else first. Although, I'm also slightly guilty of that crime... Juhanor moved farther up the path, and took a seat on a nearby rocky outcropping. "So, miss," he called out to the newcomer, "what brings you to this gate?"

"Ah, I've just seen you perform before. That's how I knew of your way with the women." The Khajiit replied, addressing Cordus's earlier question. "It's nothing, really. Anyways, good to see you again." With that, the Khajiit walked off to the bar. Cordus watched him for a moment. Oh! He's a fan. I must've seen in in one of the taverns I've played at, Cordus thought, his confusion solved.

Cordus returned his attention the the girls and resumed playing his lute, waiting for the meeting he had come for regarding the strange island in Niben Bay to start. And then he heard someone yell,"Hey, everyone who's here about the posters, shut up an' listen!" The speaker hopped up on the table she was sitting at to address the group.

"Anyone who thinks we're here on some kind of epic quest summons, you're horridly wrong. Truth is, I have no idea where in hell I'm taking you lot," she began, jerking a thumb in the direction of the bay nearby. "There's an island out there in the Niben with a gate on it, and Gods only know what's beyond it. All I know is I need you guys to get past it and figure out what's behind it. My reasons are my own, but unless you've got a reason of yours, I'd honestly suggest leaving. I have no doubt it'll probably be dangerous there. No one will think less of you if you cut and run now. If you're still interested, meet me at the docks in a few minutes."

Cordus smiled, happy to be a part of a brand new adventure. He quickly drained his glass, packed up his lute and hopped up from the table. The Breton touched his shoulder and said, "Are you going, Cordus?"

Cordus laughed and replied, "Of course I am! Danger, mystery, excitement ... all the hallmarks of a good adeventure!" With that he started walking to the door, but was stopped when the Imperial girl said, "Wait, you're going now? What about ... what about, you know, us?"

Cordus shrugged, "While I'd love to stick around and have fun with you two, you heard the lady. I've only got a few minutes, and that's not enough time to fully have fun with you guys. But, hey, the next time I'm in Bravil, I'll look you guys up and we'll pick up where we left off," With that, Cordus turned and made his way to Bravil's dock, standing around waiting to head out.


OOC: Okay, until further notice I have to post from my iPod, so I apologize in advance if my posting is a bit weaker than normal.
EDIT: Cordus is now at the docks.

Mia heard the sound of another person swimming, making the breton woman raise an eyebrow at the eagerness of some of these people. It can be a good thing.. but hopefully they aren't reckless as well as eager.. She thought as the figure came out from the fog. It was one of the Cathay-raht she had seen at the inn before taking her early leave. He seem to notice her as the khajiit walked up the path and spoke to her. "So, miss," he called out as Mia turned to face him "what brings you to this gate?"

He doesn't recognise me, so he wouldn't know.. that is at least good. The less i have to worry about the better she reassured herself as she smiled at Juhanor. "Me?" she asked pointing at herself. "I'm just waiting for someone like you are. A woman with Khajiit and Dunmer parents, fur white as snow and hair crimson as flowing blood?" She said as she looked at the large gate, much different from the last one that showed three different heads, the centre one holding the portal which they were to go through..

No this one was much simpler metal gate with a lock.. which striked most odd "I'm her friend Mia" She didn't expect him to know her as on of the champions, it was better that way.. but Karst always had a way of making everyone know who she was.

"Karst filled me in on all of the details same as you, without that spiffy little speech she did" she added and laughed lightly at how ridiculous she seemed as a sort of leader, but then again they all had changed since back then. She almost didnt want her old friend to see her again because she had changed too much as Demona's other memories resurfacing over the years. Even though not everything would come back, it would have a major impact on her personality.

Yea why not just tell him that you were there as someone else, oh wait you already showed that to the guards and the imperial woman in the aureal armour

Look when we go through that gate it could be worse so best to get on their good side now! for the love of.. She wished sometimes that there was a way to simply turn Demona off while she was in control.. but it seems it doesnt work that way. Maybe this is why we are going to the isles.. we almost belong there with the two of us arguing between ourselves.. holding her hand to her head like she had a headache, she looked back up and sighed.

"The excitement of whats in store seems to be getting to my head a bit too much, dont worry" she said quickly to reassure the khajiit before he asked.

OOC: Thanks Aula, Most of the villains I see are just guys that act badass and jerk like, I haven't seen to many sadist who are just simply evil, no tragic past to influence their actions. And if the first person becomes unbearable, let me know. The compliment makes me feel like I am doing it right. And Shadow, I think your the only character that might actually strike fear into my character...As long as you don't reveal your secret.

-Azrael Wolff-

"Anyone who thinks we're here on some kind of epic quest summons, you're horridly wrong.”

The only reason I am here is to become a god.

Her speech had been quite frontal and blunt, loud and boisterous. Anyone who couldn't take it could go home, much to my dismay, Big-Tree, nor Jo'Dharan, nor Adam made a move to leave. I smiled politely and clearly stated,

“I am Wolff and I will stick with you to the end.”

Lying though my teeth. I could care less and if things got sticky, if we were suddenly attacked by a giant and it didn't look like we could make it, I would vanish...Within ear shot to hear their bones get crushed of course. Just thinking about it sent tingles down my spine.

I was glad to be out of the hair of those misfits, I wanted to savior my time by myself before I was thrust back into their unpleasant company, I sighed. I wished for the simpler times when I could just kill without so much as an after though, crushing the weak beneath my feet. If you thought about it, why weren't we permitted to kill the weak?

Those not strong in mind or body should be eliminated, simple fact, it happened all the time in nature. But not quickly, no...Drag it out, pull to their nails, slowly shred the skin off their back until it glistens with tender flesh. Then let out a dozen rats to feed on the raw flesh...Ah, how their shrieks would fill the air.

I could feel my cheeks flush from the very thought.

There was no point in waiting any longer, I would make my way to the island. There was a slight problem.

I can't swim.

Growing up in a desert doesn't give you much of reason to learn how. I pondered this predicament. How to get across? I reached the end of the dock, I could actually see the island, a lump of green earth with an oddly glowing spot at it's tips, most of it obscured by mist.

I wasn't skilled in alteration so how...The it came to me, I just had to use what I did know. I pried off one of the wooden planks of the dock and tossed it gently into the water, I then used telekinesis to keep it afloat as I jumped onto it, my feet spread and my arms out to keep balance. I then used telekinesis to push it across the waves, careful not to knock me off.

I arrived at the shore without a drop of water on me and I was moderately proud.

The island with small and lush, growing with strange fauna, I bent down to examine a particularly interesting mushroom. As I was inspecting it's waxy blue cap, I saw the red haired bartender from the tavern and the woman in ridiculously flashy, golden armor.

The bartender was suddenly obscured by a flash of bright green light that slowly dulled to reveal a dark haired woman. There are few things that surprise me, but that was startling. As I was gather my thoughts a very large and muscular Kahjiit walked through the brush and greeted her nonchalantly. I expected he didn't see what just happened.

Gather my thoughts and the blue capped mushrooms I preceded up to where she was. I came up right beside her, so we where shoulder to shoulder,

“That was a nifty trick you have their mind teaching me?”

I did not smile. I stared straight ahead, my eye lost in pondering. For once I could easily push the thought of strangling her with her own hair out my head, in the back of my mind I could see her split from the neck to the naval, displaying the colorful insides.

But at the front of my mind I was contemplating a mysterious puzzle. Being proficient in the art of illusion, I frequently have touch the minds of others...Nothing spectacular, nothing like reading their thoughts or seeing their memories. A simple contact was necessary in order to manipulate their emotions, and as such I developed the natural habit of brushing up against the minds of those around me. Only feeling their dominate emotions.

With this girl...It didn't seem like it wasn't only her emotions...It was a puzzle and my face wrinkled as I thought harder...Any sane person couldn't have such conflicting emotions as her, but what could be the explanation?

I eventually shook my head and gave up, she must also be a mage and was just good with defending her mind against other mages.

My smile returned and looked at her again, my face said happy but my eyes held nothing.

She's a strong one then, able to confuse me like that...Should I club her now? Push her off the edge and listen to the scream as she brained herself against the rocks? Snap her neck so the bone stuck out of the flesh...No that Kahjiit would tear you to pieces,

“So, I didn't see you at the meeting...Did you hear of Karstine's meeting?”

[ooc] Quest Log about to be updated, along with possibly the Encyclopedia. Give you a few more ideas as to what all you can do here. I want it to feel like a game on its own, complete with crafting and merchants and whatnot. Go wherever ya like and I'll have something for you. ^_^

Also, this is what, the second time Karst's met a random Ansei? She's good at that..

EDIT: The gate's more like what FC4 described. The original gate's gone. This one's just.. a literal metal gate with a lock.[/ooc]

After she sat down, Karstine was approached by a dark-skinned human. She'd had little dealings with his subspecies, but she knew enough about Redguards to know they were not to be idly dismissed in battle no matter how innocuous they might seem. She looked up at him as he approached her.

"My name is Armandsen Barbossa, I hail from Hammerfell. My home has forsaken me to my duty, yet my duty has forsaken me from my home," the human stated, and she nodded solemnly. She'd known a man in that kind of situation once, loved him, even. She understood well where he was coming from. "It is mere chance that I have found myself here at the start of your expedition, but perhaps there is use for me outside of the pages of books of legend. I know not where you travel to, but perhaps such a bend in my destiny is what I require."

Amandsen leaned back and drew from his drink for a moment, then added, "I will see you at the docks,"

With that, he withdrew from her company. Karst took a long breath, then..

"I AM CLENGO!"

Karst jumped, then looked up at the stoic face of a Bosmeri man before her. She blinked.

'What the holy [censored]?'

"I am Boiche, of Y'smir the storyteller, whose teachings I listen to and obey with the entirety of my soul. Let his favor shine upon us, and may his majesty be the witness to which the oath I am about to utter. And if I were to break it, may Y'smir's full wrath come down upon me and rob me of that which he has given!"

Confused, but realizing whatever was going on was probably important to this mer, Karst folded her hands in her lap and gave him her attention. She tensed and reached for the silver dagger she kept on her when he drew a shining white knife and cut himself. He held the hand in the air.

"This is my blood," Clengo announced, "Which I give to you. May my blood be a service to you for now and forever, until the daedra grow old in their beds and Magnus runs out of bug-wax to fuel his candles that light Aetherius."

Stepping forward, the man shot his hand out to her forehead. Reflexively, she brought her own up and wrapped it about his wrist. A drop of blood splashed from his hand onto her nose and she blinked again, not sure what to think of this.

"Arctavoy, Abagaianye," he stared into her eyes still as he said this, speaking it like one gives an order. It was a language she was unfamiliar with. He provided what she assumed was a translation in another moment.

"Acknowledge, I have no fear."

Karst took a few seconds to realize a response was expected of her. Not entirely sure what the response should be, she merely did as told.

"I.. acknowledge. You.. have no fear," she stuttered, confused. She hoped that was what he wanted.

[ooc] Whoops, I made a typo in my last post. Y'ffre is the god I mean. [/ooc]

Clengo breathed a sigh of relief, perhaps more audibly than intended.

"Then my oath is sincere," he said, pulling his arm slowly away, letting the Khajiit's strong grasp slip from his wrist. "My Chief, my life is yours," he continued, placing his bleeding hand at his heart. "May this bond bring us great victory in the trials to come."

It was here that traditionally the warriors of the clan would release a great shout, but it didn't feel like the time or place. In fact, the courage seemed to have drained out of him; and he felt suddenly, embarrassingly self-aware. He could feel the gaze of those who remained at the tavern on him, and he could barely meet the she-Khajiit's eyes again.

"I...this is our tradition. I am from Valenwood. I do not know the many-ways of the world yet. In oath-taking, it is important that I show no fear, for fear betrays dishonesty and insincerity."

He paused, looking down at his hand, which had begun to bleed much more since he had withdrawn it, and it was now leaving a small puddle of blood on the wooden planks at his feet.

"This was the greatest gift I could offer you, I hope you accept," Clengo said, sounding apologetic. He glanced up at the she-Khajiit again. "If so, I should be off to the island to await you."

[ooc] Meh. Had to edit that last line till I was happy with it. [/ooc]