Thanks to everyone who have been reading Julian's thread. I really appreciate the continued interest and support from all of you.

That post limit has snuck up on me, and I realize it's time to start a new thread. I'm including the link to the first thread for those who want to catch up or refer to it:

http://www.gamesas.com/bgsforums/index.php?showtopic=1070342

The overview of the story thus far: Julian is a former Legion soldier who was discharged for medical reasons. She fell into alcoholism and skooma addiction due to the pain from wounds that never healed right. The story starts with her imprisonment after being involved in a drunken brawl at a certain tavern in Weye. She escapes when the Emperor enters her cell, and due to her Legion training and years of service, she is compelled to follow the Emperor out through the sewers. The story basically follows the Main Quest, and the last chapter concerns the ride from Weynon Priory to Bruma following the theft of the Amulet.

Enjoy! I've loved writing this so far, and have more written!

Finally we arrive at one of my favorite places in all of Cyrodiil - Cloud Ruler Temple. There ain't no place else like it anywhere in Cyrodiil, or likely all of Tamriel.

********************
Chapter 6.2 Dawn Arrival

Turning onto the Silver Road south of Bruma, we climbed higher into the Jeralls. The twin moons were low in the west, and the stars overhead seemed brighter and clearer. The air drew colder around us. Shivering, I ran my right hand over my head, startled at the ice crackling in my bound hair. Untying the red cord, I shook out the white strands until all the ice had fallen off, leaving my hair feeling less damp. Crossing the reins over Paint's neck, I retied my hair at the nape of my neck.

Reaching the point in the road where it turned sharply west, I looked up the steep slope to the right to see the tops of the Bruma city walls, black in the indigo sky. More mountains towered above us to the east and north, higher even than the alpine plain on which Bruma nestled.

Paint followed the road easily, his ears pricked forward. The path forked just before the gates, still closed against the night, and Paint took the right hand path. He walked toward a small stable tucked against the city walls, stopping near the gate to the corral. Turning in the saddle, I looked at the sign above the stable door. Wildeye Stables.

Jauffre guided Red alongside Paint. "This is where Paint was born, about seventeen years ago. He has not been back since Prior Maborel purchased him, ten years ago." He smiled at Paint. "He does not forget. This was a good place for him." Now Jauffre pointed at the secondary road that wound northward past the city walls. "Follow that around to the road that comes down from the North Gate," he directed. "That road will take us to Cloud Ruler Temple. Lead on, Julian."

I chirruped at Paint, who, with a last look at the paddock of his youth, stepped onto the path and continued on. We followed the slender thread around the city walls to the slightly more prominent road dropping away from the North Gate of Bruma.

Turning onto the new path and gazing ahead, my eyes traced the route ahead. It crossed a little dell to the side of a steep escarpment. The road turned west to climb across the face of the slope, leading my sight up to the top, where a squat stone structure crowned a shoulder of the mountains. Topped with a peaked tile roof possessing upswept eaves, the uppermost stones of the fortress gleamed a faint pink in the first flush of dawn.

The sky above was growing light in the east, where the high peaks kept us in shadow. Looking back at the escarpment, I could see the shadow line cast by the eastern mountains thrown across the walls of the fortress.

By the time we reached the top of the road and turned northeast to face the huge iron gates, the roseate light had crept down the sides of the fortress to light the top of the mountain's shoulder. It dazzled my eyes, forcing me to turn my face toward the fortress. Those tall metal panels creaked open as we dismounted, and a steel-clad figure, dwarfed by the gates, stepped out to face us. The dawn light flashed off the brass trim and the blue enamel of the Blades armor as he paused to study our faces.

Turning to the one man he recognized, he put his hand on his hilt, "Grandmaster, is this -"

"Yes, Cyrus," Jauffre responded, "this is the Emperor's son, Martin Septim."

The Redguard turned smartly to Martin, his armor clinking slightly. He raised his right fist to his chest and tipped his head forward in salute. "We are honored, Sire," he said crisply. "Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple!"

Cyrus stepped back to lead us into the Temple. Within the gates, a wide stairway rose within the high walls to bring us to a raised plaza. Red protested initially at having to climb the steep steps, but gave in when Paint and Jasmine, following us, left him behind. At the top, Cyrus caught my gaze, and gestured toward a small stable tucked beneath the fortress wall at the west side of the plaza.

Collecting the reins of all three horses, I led them to the stable. Placing them in tie-stalls, I loosened the girths and removed their bridles. Fresh hay drew them towards the manger that ran along the stalls.

Returning to the plaza, I watched the company of Blades gather in two ranks on the plaza, leaving the way from the stairs to the Temple proper at the north side open. Jauffre led Martin to the broad steps leading up to the Temple and paused there, turning to face the assembled Blades. Limping across the paving stones, I stopped behind the nearest rank to listen.

"Blades," the Grandmaster's voice rang in the dawn. "This is your new Emperor, Martin Septim!"

The air sang with the sound of katanas drawn in unison, as the soldiers lifted their weapons in salute. "Hail, the Emperor!" the strength of their response caught me off guard. "Hail, the Dragon Born!"

Past armored shoulders, I could see the chagrin in Martin's face at their cheering. He glanced at Jauffre, then took a deep breath.

"Thank you, I think," he spoke haltingly, quietly. His voice, soft compared to Jauffre's, still carried well in the cold mountain air. Years of casting whispers into the farthest reaches of a chapel, I thought to myself. Very different from the command voice of combat veterans. "I will try to do my best for you," he continued. "Your loyalty to the Emp - my father, as well as to me, is greatly appreciated. That is all."

A tall Blade, his armor slightly more ornate than the others, stepped out of the line and turned to face the others. "Dismissed," his rough voice broke the ranks. "Return to your duties, Blades." As the others scattered to their posts around the plaza, more than a few met my gaze with level stares. None held overt hostility, rather more an assessment. Becoming acutely self conscious of my repaired leathers, I searched their faces for Baurus. Though I saw quite a few Redguards, none were my first friend.

"Sire," Jauffre was saying as I approached Martin and the Grandmaster, "they've prepared a room for you. It's been a long trip from Kvatch, and you look exhausted." He nodded at Cyrus, who waited patiently near the front entrance to the Temple Hall. "Cyrus will show you the way."

Martin glanced at me. "What about Julian?" he asked.

What about me, indeed? I wondered, aware of Jauffre's gaze on me. What do I do, now that Martin's safe?

"Don't worry," Jauffre turned his blue gaze back to the priest. "She is welcome here, too." What? Me? I stared at the Grandmaster, who returned my gaze calmly.

"This is so strange, Julian," Martin said to me. "After all that's happened, I'm the Emperor here. I'm supposed to act like one, and I don't even know how." He paused, holding my gaze with his own, so like his father's. "I'm grateful to you, Julian," his mouth curved, the smile not touching his eyes. "You got me here safely, and I owe much to you, friend." He looked around at the fortress plaza, at the Blades patrolling the walls. "These soldiers are waiting for me to tell them what to do, and I don't know where to begin."

"That's what the Grandmaster is for, Sire," I said to him quietly, aware of Jauffre's and the tall Blade officer's steady regard of me. Martin flinched at my use of the honorific reserved for the Emperor. "It's his job to tell the Blades what to do. For now," I smiled at him, "I'd take his advice and get some rest, first. You'll be able to think better after some sleep and some food."

Giving me a rueful glance, Martin turned to Cyrus. "Lead on, then." As I watched Martin follow Cyrus into the Temple Hall, Jauffre clapped a hand on my left shoulder.

"Well, Julian," he said in that clipped voice of his. "You have done all that I have asked, and more. Your assistance has been of great value."

I began to shake my head, but stopped when the Blade officer handed Jauffre a sheathed katana. "Thanks, Steffan," Jauffre acknowledged him. Holding the katana across his open palms, he extended the sword to me. "You've shown not only bravery and courage, but also tact and reticence. We are always in need of people like you, Julian. It would be an honor to have you join us."

I stared at him, stunned. Join the Blades? Me? Am I good enough? I finally found my voice. "Uh, y- yes," I stammered. "The honor would be mine, sir."

"Good, then," Jauffre nodded in satisfaction. He gestured at the Blades officer. "This is Captain Steffan. He is the officer in charge here. If you need anything, please go to him."

Congrats on thread II !!!! I'm glad you caught Martin's reaction when the Blades hail him - he was so overwhelmed after that - you did an Awesome job portraying that scene!

Ah...bliss....to turn on my comp, and see THIS over a cup of coffee...


... and the propect of MORE... woo hoo!!!

Firstly, congratulations on starting your second thread. I am DELIGHTED that you are continuing to grace us with Julian's precious story. Not only is she very endearing, but I quite enjoy reading of her account of the Main Quest. I normally do not do that questline (although it is a fine one), so it is great fun to read - familiar, but not overly so. Just perfect. ^_^

Well, you said how much you liked Cloud Ruler Temple and my goodness, it shows. Your passion is infused into every word. You captured not only the appearance, but the feel , cold and spirit as well. I very much enjoyed your portrayal of everyone's reactions from Martin's to Red's.

Julian! You're a Blade! WooHoo! You go girl! :toughninja:

What a wonderful start for your new thread! :celebration:

What a lush and rich description of the final journey to Cloud Ruler Temple! I am glad that you took the time to lavish us with such deep details, the black lines of the city walls looming against the darkness beyond, the crispness of the mountain air, the early glow of the sun against the peaks, even (and perhaps especially) Paint's homecoming at Wild Eye stable, cut unfortunately short.

I liked the following line. It is one of the things I like about Martin. He is essentially a regular guy thrown into the boots of a superhero, and oh, btw, the fate of the entire world rests on his shoulders. How can anyone cope with something like that?
I'm the Emperor here. I'm supposed to act like one, and I don't even know how.

The parallel with Julian's own situation is delicious:
I stared at him, stunned. Join the Blades? Me? Am I good enough? I finally found my voice. "Uh, y- yes," I stammered. "The honor would be mine, sir."

I am not sure if you meant to show the similarities between the two finding themselves, amazed and uncertain, in such honored company. But you certainly pulled it off magnificently! :celebration:

Thread number two already? Wow, congratulations!

It is a testament to your ability that you've engaged us enough to push this thread north of two hundred.

Here's to many more adventures with Julian. :celebration:

As for this chapter:

To quote (badly) from Shakespeare: What envious streaks do lace the severing clouds in yonder east? It is I, while reading these passages wringing covetous hands with eyes as green as spring grass!

And for your first chapter of the new thread, Julian becomes a Blade. Tell me you didn't plan that! :bowdown:

And Thread the Second is off to a brilliant start. You capture so much of the human frailty in both Julian and Martin, yet in doing so, show their strength and determination... The descriptive passages were wonderful, filled with the specific detail that makes those descriptions live and breathe. Loved it.

@mALX1 and D.Foxy: Thanks for enjoying! Your enthusiasm is always encouraging. D. Foxy, did you have the chance to read the rewrite on the previous chapter?

@Acadian: Isn't natural for this old Legion soldier to turn Blade? For Julian, it is an honor to even be asked! As for Cloud Ruler, well, I love mountains and mountaintop locations. Haven't been in the mountains all that much in my life (grew up a flatlander, still living in the flatlands), so that makes such locations all the more overwhelming for me. I'm glad Red's objection to the stairs within the Temple struck you - he was thinking I've been climbing the whole fricking night, just climbed the steepest fricking mountain in the world, and now you want me to climb THIS? Oh, there goes Jasmine -!

@SubRosa: Those descriptions actually come from my own personal experience. I'll never forget my first time in the mountains, watching the sun come up over the Sangre de Cristo range east of Santa Fe and Taos, seeing the edge of the world move down the mountainside. The best place of all for sunrises and sunsets is in Taos, watching that shadow line on Taos Mountain. Only then could I begin to understand why that particular mountain is so sacred to the Pueblo Indians who live in its shadow. That is an experience that crops up from time to time in my fiction, and was particularly well suited to that dawn ride up to Cloud Ruler Temple.

@Destri Melarg: Your descriptions in your fiction are sometimes better than mine - you continue to inspire me! As for the timing of Julian's joining the Blades coinciding with the start of a new thread, that was purely accidental. I've got chapters ready for posting way in advance, and this one was placed in position about two weeks ago. It's all the replies in the first thread that made it such a happy accident!

@treydog: It's funny that I never really noticed the parallel paths Martin and Julian are following in their development, yet you and SubRosa would pick up on it so easily. I guess that's why Julian feels Martin is her friend so quickly, given that he is not a fellow soldier, but a civilian. Thanks to both of you for calling my attention to that aspect of their relationship - it does feel like something I need to keep alive through the Main Quest.

Now Julian starts to get a feel for what she has gotten herself into, with the Blades.

****************
Chapter 6.3 Captain Steffan

Captain Steffan removed his helm as Jauffre walked away. He possessed Imperial features, but stood taller than most Imperial men. Intense blue eyes studied me from beneath level black brows. Close-cropped black hair with a shock of white above the left temple topped his head.

"Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple, Julian," he said in that rough voice. Why so rough? Old injury? Sore throat? "I know you've traveled a long way," he continued. "Let me show you the barracks, and the armory where you can keep your gear, and the dining hall where we share our meals."

"What will be my duties here, sir?" I asked, looking around the plaza. Two Blades patrolled the outer walls, and I could see two more in the watchtowers above the gates. Another Blade stood guard beside the door to the Temple Hall.

"I'm sure Grandmaster Jauffre has something in mind for you," Steffan responded, starting for the east wing. Falling into step beside him, I wondered what he meant. "For now, you can rest, repair your gear or replace it, and catch up on your food." Again he gave me that assessing glance, making me aware of my thinness. "Grandmaster said you were pretty gaunt," he continued, "but it looks like you're making up for it."

He's right, I admitted with some surprise. This cuirass isn't fitting so loosely as it used to. Maybe it isn't all gra-Sharob's doing. "I've been trying to eat meat once a day, like the Grandmaster told me to do," I answered. Steffan nodded, a small smile playing on his lips.

"Ah, yes, Grandmaster would tell you that," he commented. He directed my attention to the two Blades trading blows with their weapons in a square of sand. "Personally, I think there's nothing like using your muscles to build them up."

Pausing to watch the two duelists, I noted that one of them wielded the same two-handed blade that Jauffre carried. "What is that blade, sir?" I asked, indicating the taller of the two Blades. "I have never seen the like of it before. It's almost like a claymore, but so much lighter."

"Aye, it is lighter than a steel claymore," Steffan agreed. "That is an Akaviri dai-katana, the big cousin to the katana most of us carry. Very few of us carry it - it takes a great degree of skill and strength to wield it effectively. That's Fortis, and Baragon is the only other Blade to carry it." Catching my eye, he jerked his head toward the sunken stairway leading down to a door in the east wing. "We have one available in the armory, if you're interested in it."

"Certainly, sir, I'd like to see it," I turned away from the practice sands and followed the tall Captain. A wide brazier set at one side of the main steps, fended off the chill with a merry crackle as we passed it. Steffan opened the door and waved for me to step inside.

A short passageway led straight ahead to a dogleg up to an upper level, a wooden railing separating it from the entry level. "Up there, that's the dining hall. You'll find provisions, and we eat here." Steffan explained. "Most of us are on rotating schedules, but we try to gather for dinner, with just a couple out on the walls. When we are on combat footing, though, it's fend for yourself time."

"Grab whatever grub we can get when we can get it?" I commented. "Makes sense." Turning, I noticed a truncated stairway leading down to another door, beneath the dining hall floor. Steffan led me down the steps.

"This is the armory," he said, leading me within. The sounds of clashing metal on wood ceased as I followed him. "Hello, Ferrum," he greeted the young Blade standing at the training dummy, his katana lowered toward the floor. Ferrum wiped the sweat from his brow with his ungloved left hand. "This is Julian," Steffan continued. "She's our most recent Blade-sister."

"Sir," Ferrum gave the Captain a short nod, then regarded me with black eyes. "Hail, sister," he greeted me, barely winded. "Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple."

"Thanks, - brother," I responded. The dark-haired Breton smiled at me, then glanced at Steffan.

"As you were, Ferrum," Steffan answered the unspoken question with quiet humor. The Breton turned away and started slashing again at the wooden dummy. Steffan led me to the rear of the underground chamber. A smith's forge sat in a corner, its fire banked. Along the wall next to it, several blades rested in a weapons rack. At the opposite wall, shelves held long, narrow chests.

Steffan regarded the chests for a few moments, then knelt and selected one that sat on the floor. Swinging the lid open, he stepped back. "Here, you can use this one for your gear," he explained. "Whatever you don't need while you're here."

Thankfully, for the pack was pulling at my spine, I lowered the bag into the locker. The container was long, long enough for weapons, as well. I unloaded the bow and quiver, and laid the two swords I had brought - Hero of Kvatch and Daedra Slayer, within the box. Keeping the katana in my left hand, I closed the lid and pushed it back under the shelves.

Buckling the katana's belt to my waist, I followed Steffan to the center of the long room. He opened a weapons cabinet, similar to the one at Weynon Priory, and drew out a dai-katana. The slender blade sang slightly as he unsheathed it and handed the hilt to me.

Slightly longer than my new katana, with a two-handed grip, the weapon was heavier and felt sturdier. Still, it felt much lighter than the steel claymore I remembered from my Legion days. Steffan stepped back to give me room as I hefted the dai-katana thoughtfully.

"Its speed and reach are the same as a katana's, and most longswords," Steffan commented. "But its balance is more like a claymore, and it does more damage for its weight, like a claymore." He turned his head to the side. "Ferrum." The younger Blade stopped and turned to give me a little more space.

Taking the hilt in both of my hands, I could feel the meaning of Steffan's words. The balance was indeed different than a longsword's. Swinging the blade through the air in a figure eight, I could feel the speed in its movement, but the weight of the blade caused my shoulders to tighten after a few circuits. "Yes, sir, I see what you mean," I said after a moment. Handing the blade back to Steffan, I shook my head. "I think I'll stick with the katana, thanks."

"You may be tall, Julian," Steffan slid the elegant blade home in its sheath, "but even I don't handle it all that well. It takes much practice and strength to handle a blade such as this." He placed it back in the weapons cabinet. I studied the pieces of armor on the shelves as Ferrum returned to his exercises.

The Captain selected one of the distinctive Dragonscale cuirasses worn by the Blades and held it up in front of me, visually measuring it against my torso. "This may fit you, if you would like to wear it."

Taking the armor, I nearly dropped it when Steffan released its unexpected weight into my hands. Gods! Have I really lost so much of my strength? Holding it up for a moment, I felt a twinge of regret. It was beautiful, with brass buckles fastening the segmented body plates, blue enamel and brass medallions on the pauldrons, and a stiff leather collar lined with softer kidskin. "Am I supposed to wear this, sir?" If the answer is yes, I'm in big trouble.

The Captain took it back. "No, most of our agents do not wear the armor," he said, replacing the cuirass in the cabinet. "And that's what I think Grandmaster Jauffre has in mind for you."

"Agent?" I repeated, looking down at my leather cuirass.

"Most Blades work undercover," Steffan explained, leading me out of the armory. As I passed Ferrum, he sent me a farewell glance without breaking his rhythm. "There are actually few of us who wear the armor," the Captain continued as we headed to the dining hall. "The garrison here at Cloud Ruler Temple, and the Emperor's personal bodyguard."

"Like Baurus?" I asked. Steffan nodded. Limping after him, I smelled smoked boar and roast mutton. My stomach growled, and the Captain glanced back at me. Mortified, I returned his gaze sheepishly.

Without pausing, he scooped an apple off a table and tossed it back to me. "I'll show you the rest of the Temple, then you can come back here and get some more grub," he said with a lopsided smile. "In the meantime, enjoy."

Not wasting another moment, I bit into the apple as I hobbled through the upper door into the central Hall. Steffan led me to the center of the immense space. Staring around me, I took in the details of the place. Post-and-timber construction. The immense fireplace against the north wall. The wide floorboards beneath my feet. The round windows in each gable. The clerestory windows near the peak of the roof, letting morning light flood into the space and making the roof appear to be floating above the walls. That morning light shimmered on the argent blades of katanas hung along the rafters down each side of the long Hall.

"This is the Hall of Blades," Steffan gestured at the katanas. "Here we honor the fallen." Touching my shoulder, he turned me to face the fireplace, and showed me two weapons hanging by themselves above the hearth. "Those belong to Captain Renault and Glenroy. I believe you knew them."

Choking down the bite of apple, I nodded. "Only for the briefest of moments," I answered. "Glenroy was brave - and angry."

"Yes, I can understand that," Steffan's rough voice became very quiet. "Baurus reported that by the time the three of them reached your cell with the Emperor, they were the only Blades left of the Imperial Bodyguards. Even the ones guarding the princes fell during the assassinations."

"All of them?" I shot a glance at the Captain, but his gaze was on the two lone katanas. "All but Baurus?" At his nod, I looked down at the apple in my hand. "I know how that feels," I muttered.

You always save some outstanding scene for the last several paragraphs - you have done it once again with the conversation between Julian and Steffan - you are doing an amazing job with this, it has such a completely different feel than in game - you have really personalized the main questline in a way I did not think possible !!

Julian enters her life On His Majesty's Secret Service! (I could not resist, something has had me watching old Bond movies lately, or at least trying to). I am glad you took the time to show us around Cloud Ruler Temple, and at the same time show us a bit of how Julian has been regaining her old strength, albeit far from all of it. It is also clear however, the new Julian who will emerge from this will be far different from the old, pre-skooma soldier.

On a technical level, you used dialogue very effectively to move this part of a chapter along and convey the things you wanted to. All the time the conversation flowed in a very natural manner. Well done!

Here is something that stands out to me, a very simple thing, but one that new writers would do well to pay attention to:
"Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple, Julian," he said in that rough voice. Why so rough? Old injury? Sore throat?
The reason I mention this is that it is an excellent example of staying with your viewpoint character. One mistake that many new writers often make when using Third Person Limited Perspective is to jump from the heads of one character to another so they can tell the reader what every character is thinking and doing. Instead you stay very firmly rooted in Julian's pov, showing us only what she sees and hears, and use her own imagination to fill in the blanks about why the Blade might have such a rough-sounding voice. Which is the same as we all do in the real world as we go about our lives. That is good writing. Simple, but it is the simple things that all add up to make a well-written piece.

Congratulations on hitting a milestone event; Thread two :trophy:

I very much enjoyed your bringing your equestrian experience into the story. I consider horses to be noble and magnificent creatures, at least when they are not bucking, biting, or bolting :bolt:

EDIT: Somehow I missed the fact that there were two new posts not just one. I like the fact that your writing takes in each moment as the rich experience it should be. There is certainly a beauty to be appreciated in Cloud Ruler Temple.

A good, gritty eye for detail.

One of the things most writers miss regarding armour is just how heavy the stuff is when you are not used to it. And the dai katana too...my students who have gotten used to the lighter swords always find out that the rhythm of the swing of that heavier sword is the first thing they must learn - which means, of course, 'un-learning' a few things they know. And the few who are used to the heavier stuff, such as claymores and axes, have to learn how to slash instead of just chop.

And footwork, HE Rider. Never, never forget or neglect footwork. As I shall elucidate in my next post in my thread (somewhere in early 2011!) in swordplay, it is the feet that kill, more than the hands. Footwork is different for each type of weapon, and each combination of weapon and armour.

:read: A joy to read. Cloud Ruler Temple, well-captured. Rich description and dialogue really brought everything to life. Julian's internal dialogue was, as always, just a delight to eavesdrop on.

I particularly enjoyed how you portrayed Steffan - his description, manner and speech.

Even as questions began to form about how well the old soldier would do amongst those younger and sturdier in heavy armor, we hear the word 'agent'. Ahah, this sounds like it will be very interesting indeed.

Oh Julian! I hope we can do something about that poor old knee and hip!


1. Wonderful description and assessment of this hybrid blade. I was hoping you would go into this - and you did! :toughninja:
2. Speed and reach is or speed and reach are? I guess technically, speed + reach = plural, implying are; yet perhaps they can be viewed as one in combination so is would be ok? I would use are, but I'm not sure; perhaps review it and see what you think?

I have come to rely upon you as my guide through Oblivion's main quest. This chapter is one of the reasons why. :read: The interaction with Captain Steffan, the description of Cloud Ruler Temple, The explanation of and practice with the balance and heft of a dai-katana all kept me immersed until the very last paragraph. And speaking of that last paragraph, methinks we have just been foreshadowed.

Congrats on your second thread. :icecream:

Loved your take on the Dai-Katana and the regular one!

And I agree with Acadian, I keep wondering when her bum knee and hip are going to get better.

@mALX1: I'm glad you feel that I am keeping the buildup going. Yes, the game is cookie-cutter, but it's like art - what you get out of it is what you bring to it. And it seems that I have brought a lot to it, judging by your (and others') comments.

@SubRosa: I'm American, so I always considered the Blades as the Secret Service! All Julian needs are a pair of Ray Bans and she'll fit right in (eventually)! :rock:

I've always loved using dialogue, both external and internal. External dialogue is how we learn about the people and the world around us, and how we share our own experiences with others. Internal dialogue is equally valuable for me, as far as developing the protagonist. I'm glad you're enjoying Julian's POV. That's something I've been working on for the past ten years - limiting my POV. I'm glad the practice shows, especially as this is the first story I've written in first person (thanks, Acadian, for the inspiration!). :mohawk:

@bobg: I'm glad you enjoyed my horses and my depiction of Cloud Ruler Temple. I love the place - it is one of my special places in the game. I've always found Cloud Ruler to be one of the most exhilarating places to be in Cyrodiil. Better than Dive Rock, IMHO (and much more hospitable!). As for horses, they can be such terrifying beasts! I've had the little toe on my right foot broken three separate times, my ribs cracked, my head scalped, my left arm got carpal tunnel for a year, my right hip knocked out of place (not quite dislocated, but not quite right, either). Makes the damage inflicted by daedra in game pale by comparison! :toughninja:

@D.Foxy: I have to wait a year for the next post in your thread?? I have it bookmarked, and believe me, it has helped tremendously in writing my battle scenes. Before I read it (Of Blades, Fights and Assassins), my combat was meh. But now, I feel more confident in giving them greater detail without losing the grit. Apparently I'm successful, based on how many people use the term "grit" in describing my scenes! :dance:

As for the differences in weapons, it's like the differences in horseback riding (English vs. Western vs. Dressage . . .). There's a lot to unlearn every time you switch trainers! :facepalm:

@Acadian: I'm glad you and D.Foxy appreciated how I depicted the difference between the katana and dai-katana. I did quite a bit of reading on the subject, then looked at the weapons themselves on the UESP wiki. I figured the biggest difference between the two was the balance, and that does affect how you handle it. I'm glad that my description was as accurate as we can be with a fantasy game.

Not to worry, that old knee and hip are steadily getting better. The hip will heal completely, just needed constant reapplication of healing spells, daily meat, and good rest. The knee, well, there are structural problems, but we will fix those later (much later) in the story. So not to worry, by the time Julian has to make that huge jump in the Bruma Great Gate, she won't fall apart on landing! :ninja:

@Destri: The game leaves me wanting in interaction between characters! Captain Steffan and I share a strong interest in architecture, so that led to my developing his character more in depth. I promise we will see more of Captain Steffan and his garrison in upcoming chapters. As for the foreshadowing in that last chapter, well, let me say it's more a backshadowing - there have been times in Julian's past when she was the only one left standing, and we will learn about two of those times (in flashbacks). I think they're essential to Julian's character and to why she is having such a difficult time healing from those wounds. As for the Main Quest, I'm afraid the in-game version won't be quite as detailed as my version! :shakehead:

@RemkoNL: Thanks for continuing to read and enjoy Julian's story. Have patience, you will see the healing continue! :goodjob:

More of Cloud Ruler Temple and Julian's new comrades-in-arms:

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Chapter 6.3 Cloud Ruler Temple

Soft murmurings and rustlings roused me from a black slumber. I lay for several moments, feeling disoriented by the heavy timbers above and around me. I turned over to see several Blades moving around the room, some stripping their armor for bed, others rising and dressing for duty. Stretching, I felt the delicious tension in my muscles. My left hip, for once, didn't twinge with the movement. I'm getting more fit, I observed. The long day's walk, and the long night's ride, didn't leave me sore, as I would have been a week ago. Rising to my feet, I tested my right knee carefully. It didn't hurt much this afternoon.

Captain Steffan had shown me to the barracks in the west wing of the Temple. Heated by a hypocaust, the floor was warm, making the bedrolls surprisingly comfortable to sleep on. Torn between filling my empty stomach, still growling after that apple, and finding sleep, I had chosen sleep, at least for a few hours. Now my belly would not let me postpone feeding it any more.

Stepping through the smaller door that led out to the plaza, I heard the clanging of swords and looked across the area to the practice sands. They're still at it? Recognizing Fortis by his dai-katana, I paused beside the western brazier to watch them.

The sentry at the front door caught my gaze. "Good afternoon, Julian," she greeted me. "I'm Jena. Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple."

"Thanks, Jena," I answered. "Is that Fortis?"

"Yes, it is, and Pelagius. They spar every day, all day."

"The entire day?" I stared at Jena. The Imperial woman smiled, her brown eyes twinkling.

"Yes, and Ferrum in the armory is still at it, too." Her tone held a suppressed chuckle. I shook my head in wonderment. "Will you join us for dinner? It will be served in two hours."

Turning to squint at the westering sun, my eye fell on the stable. "Yes, I think so," I answered. "I'd like to check on Paint." Looking back at Jena, I considered my next question. "Would it be wrong for me to take an apple for him? He likes them so."

"By all means," Jena smiled. "Help yourself."

A few moments later, I was in the stable, apple in hand. The three horses had been stripped of their tack and brushed down, their coats dry and gleaming in the shadows of the stable. They greeted me with soft blowing, and Paint nudged me with his nose as I made my way to his head. Inhaling deeply of the wonderful smell from their hides, the aromatic hay in the manger, the clean scent of glycerin soap, I smiled at the eagerness in Paint's eye.

Taking bites of the crisp apple, I gave Paint the pieces. Red watched us from the other side of Jasmine, but when he tried to reach past her towards me, she pinned her ears and snaked her head at him. Red turned his head away. Best ask Jauffre to give him an apple or two, I mused, feeling sorry for the way the mare picked on him so mercilessly. She got along fine with Paint, however. It must be because Paint is gelded, and not as pushy as Red.

Looking around for the tack, I recognized Paint's saddle by the round light iron shield still attached to the cantle ring. The Kvatch Wolf gazed back at me in the shadows. Reaching out to it, I thought of gra-Sharob, of Sigrid and Boldon. I wonder how the children are doing. I missed them already. My right hand remembered the feel of Falisia's tiny fingers resting in my palm. My thoughts wandered to Matius. That's the real hero of Kvatch. He held the guard together, kept them going in the face of impossible odds.

Goneld's bloodied face, Rilian's hand on my shoulder appeared in my mind's eye and hit me hard. Catching my breath, I leaned against the wall next to the saddles. I thought I left all that behind.

"Julian?" a tall figure appeared in the rectangle of afternoon light that formed the doorway. Not recognizing the voice, I wiped my cheeks and turned to look at him. "I'm Roliand," he continued, removing his helm so I could see his face. Fair skin, golden blond hair cropped short, light blue eyes. Shoulders broad and Nordic. "I took care of the horses. I hope you find everything all right, sister."

Taking a deep breath, I regarded him, then gestured toward the rumps standing in a row. "I think they look happy, Roliand. Thanks for your care."

"It was my pleasure," he responded, smiling at me. Stepping out, I regarded him, tipping my head back to make eye contact. "I heard you were in the Legion, sister," his voice, surprisingly soft for such a big man, held a note of curiosity. Nodding, I looked away, toward the practice sands. He caught the direction of my gaze. "Go watch them," he remarked. "They enjoy performing for an audience."

"I will see you at dinner, then?" I asked. Roliand nodded, replacing his helm and brushing his right knuckles on his briastplate with a soft clink. As he walked away, toward the outer wall, I limped across the plaza to watch the two soldiers.

They are good, I decided after watching them for several minutes. They braced for each other's blows, blocking, parrying and counter-parrying. Pelagius used his shield much the way I did, mainly to deflect the blows from Fortis's two-handed weapon. Without the benefit of a buckler, Fortis used his gauntlets or the sturdy blade of his dai-katana to block Pelagius's katana. As I watched, Pelagius avoided an overhand strike from Fortis, and swung his blade straight down, only to have Fortis's upraised elbow knocking his wrist away.

The dinner bell rang, and the two men stepped back from each other, sheathing their swords. "Good evening, sister," Pelagius greeted me, pulling off his helm. In spite of sparring for hours in full armor, the two Imperials were only slightly winded. "Welcome to Cloud Ruler Temple."

"Thanks," I answered, limping toward the east wing. The two men matched their strides to mine. "You two are really good," I gestured back at the practice sands. "I think I learned a thing or two."

Fortis, having removed his helm as well, and stripping his gauntlets, shook his head. "I don't know," his teeth shone in the dusk, "I think you could teach us something, too. Twenty-five years in the Legion, sister. That's a lifetime of hard fighting."

As Pelagius opened the door for us, I shrugged. "More like years of training, years of waiting, years of boredom. Throw in a few moments of sheer, Goblin-induced terror here and there, and that pretty much sums it up."

We walked into the dining hall, where the two men waved me to a nearby table. Platters of roasted meat and vegetables, fresh-baked bread, waited, wafting steam. Sitting down, Pelagius eyed me thoughtfully. "Goblins?" he repeated. "Are they really as tough as people say?"

"The peons aren't, really," I answered. "They're quick and aggressive, but lightly armored and armed, and not very effective in their tactics." Fortis filled a plate and set it in front of me. "They're more slash and smash, and not even good at it." I shook my head at the offered wine, and reached for the teapot instead. The pvssyr died as Captain Steffan and Jauffre entered the hall, Martin in tow. They took seats at another table at the far end of the hall. This time, I was ready, and waited as the soldiers bowed their heads silently in grace. Fortunately, my stomach stayed quiet in the silence.

After a moment, Fortis looked up at me. "What about the other Goblins?" he asked, slicing a chunk of roast mutton on his plate. A few of other Blades wandered to our table and sat down. I recognized Roliand and Jena.

Taking a sip of the hot tea, I considered his question. "The skirmishers are trickier," I answered. "More cunning. They use iron bows, but shoot fast and accurately." Pausing to take a bite of grub, I continued, "Berserkers are big, strong, and heavily armored. They are unrelenting in their attacks. And the shamans," I forced that image from my mind, keeping my voice steady, "are very nasty. They hang back and fire spells at you. They like to paralyze you, then hit you with shock spells -" swallowing against the sudden dryness in my throat, I took another bite of mutton. Stop it. It's over.

"And of course, you can't get near them unless you're a sniper or battlemage yourself," Fortis commented around a mouthful of grub, gesturing with his fork for emphasis. Nodding my agreement, I swallowed my own mouthful.

"The worst of them all, though, are the war chiefs," I finished. "They're bigger than the berserkers, strong, and fast. They love to use touch paralyze spells on you, then pound away while you're down." Looking down, I scraqed my fork across an empty plate. "I lost a lot of comrades to those things," I finished.

"Here," one of the other Blades dropped another slice of mutton onto my plate. "If you're going to be one of us, and teach a few things about Goblin-fighting, you'll need more meat on your bones." His brown eyes sparked at me.

I didn't have time to be embarrassed by my relative weakness next to these sturdy Blades. "That's Belisarius," Fortis jerked his thumb at the other Blade. "He's the brains in this outfit." He pointed at the Breton next to himself, across the table from me, "And this is Baragon." Now he pointed at the quiet woman on his other side. "This is Caroline." He nudged her teasingly with his elbow. "Doesn't say much, but keeps us all in line."

Her hand moved quickly and she speared the last slice of mutton from his plate. The dripping meat disappeared into her mouth before Fortis could protest. Stifling a chuckle, I met her grey gaze. "A woman's work is never done, hmm?" Grinning, Caroline shook her head.

At my side, Pelagius's eating slowed. Glancing at him, I followed his gaze to see Martin - Emperor Martin - eating with better appetite than he had shown before. It must be the cold, the altitude. I was surprised at how much I had already packed away myself.

"I'm sorry, Julian," Pelagius muttered, noticing my regard. "I'm sworn to protect the Emperor, no matter what. But I can't help wondering, what sort of man is he?"

Considering the question thoughtfully, I nibbled on some potato. "He's been a priest of Akatosh for a number of years," I said finally. "He has lived a life of peace and service, to others as well as the Divine. He is a good teacher," I thought of how he had taught me to cast my flare spell more effectively. "He sees the good in others, and takes their suffering to heart."

Fortis was nodding as I spoke. I sensed there was some ongoing discussion between the two. "Aye, the Emperor must be like Father Akatosh himself, wise, kind, gentle -"

"In times of peace," Pelagius countered softly. "But peace has fled Tamriel, and we are facing daedra -"

Realizing the nature of their discussion, I firmed my voice, still keeping my tone low. "I don't doubt for a moment that Emperor Martin has the courage necessary to defend Cyrodiil against daedra." Recalling how he had faced the assassins at Weynon Priory, I continued, "On the way here, whenever we were attacked, he never sought refuge, but stood his ground and faced danger with dagger and frost-flares." As I spoke, Martin met my gaze across the hall, nodded and smiled at me. Returning his smile, I finished, "and he's pretty good with those spells, too."

"Hmm," Pelagius grunted softly, sopping up the last of the gravy with the last bite of bread. "That's high praise, coming from someone who's fought with battlemages."

"If he weren't the last son and heir," I murmured, feeling full. Pelagius saw the look on my face, and speared the last potato from my plate. "I had more problems keeping him out of trouble than taking care of trouble itself."

Pelagius surprised me with a hearty chuckle as he finished my potato. "All right, Julian," he said. "That's the way I like 'em."

I shook my head. "Not if your job is to keep them alive," I countered. Fortis's broad grin met my gaze across the table.

A hypocaust! Quick, get your swords out and kill the beast!

Another good interlude of steady characterization and introductions to the grunts of Cloud Ruler Temple. I could read posts like this one forever.


nits:
then whale away while you're down.
"whale" sounded out of place, a little too modern. Perhaps a more neutral word, like "pound" or "hammer" might be better?

What a fascinating interlude. First, excuse me while I go and get a plate of roast mutton and potatoes. :foodndrink: Using the discussion of Julian's experience with goblins to characterize the blades of Cloud Ruler Temple is an amazing idea. I now feel like I know who is steady and reliable and who is reckless and headstrong.

It also seems as if you have strengthened Julian's relationship with Martin just by her description of what kind of man he is. It feels not only plausible, but inevitable that Julian is willing to place herself in jeopardy time and time again for this man. Truly excellent work!

Awesome detail and descriptions that are brought out naturally - it feels like being there and seeing it !!

Nicely done. Great use of describing minor actions to bring dialogue to life.

You continue to render a captivating picture of life at the Cloud Ruler Temple. :goodjob:

This was enjoyable, relaxing and filling.

I am going to study these last few chapters. Not much happens yet still it is exciting. The dialogues between the Blades and Julian, her visit to the horses, it all feels so... so... just right. :goodjob:

(grumble)

And now I have a craving for some nice sauteed potatoes...


(GROWL)

All intestinal rumblings shall be laid at the door of the hottie ryder!! :whip:

@SubRosa: I had a feeling you would enjoy the reference to a hypocaust. With no fireplace in the barracks, how can they stay warm enough to sleep, especially on the floor? :cold: Your nit has been fixed.

@Destri: I'm glad you enjoyed dinner. I've been dying to flesh out Martin ever since I played the Main Quest the first time. The game just doesn't do this complex character (or the fine actor) justice. I hope to continue showing how he goes from quiet priest to inspiring leader to the selfless Emperor who gives all he's got for Tamriel. :woot:

@MALX1: I shall continue to strive and make Cloud Ruler Temple as real for you as your own home. :wub:

@Acadian: I hope I have created the atmosphere of camaraderie typical of close-knit small military groups in these two chapters. I get the impression from your comments that I'm likely not too far off the mark. :dance:

@RemkoNL: I'm glad that you enjoy the dialogue between all these characters. Some will have pretty large roles to play, others will have very solid, supporting parts. However all of them are pretty important to me (and Julian). :intergalactic:

@D.Foxy: Getting hungry? I suggest you fill your stomach first before the next installment! :icecream:

In this chapter, Julian learns of her new place in the Blades, and of her next task; finding a friend and returning to the place of her incarceration. Warning: another delectable meal plays a guest starring role!

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Chapter 6.4 A New Task

Stiffly, I rose from the bedroll, casting three healing spells to relieve the aches in my joints. My knee felt stronger, though it still hurt to stand on it. Pulling on my leathers, I headed out to the plaza just in time to see the sun peeking past the tall mountains to the east. Finding a clear space near the western brazier, I faced the dawn.

Okay, let's see how much I remember - I started taking deep breaths of the chilly air, feeling the frost all the way down into my abdomen. Watching the puffs of my slow exhalations, I centered myself and called up long-buried memories of Jelin's Way of the Crane. Awkward at first, I persisted through the dance-like movements that focused on balance and centering, on fluidity of movement and flexibility of muscles, on peace of mind and breathing control. Though not as smooth as those of my second pilus prior in the Legion, the forgotten patterns became easier as I worked through the routine.

When I finished, I was warm in spite of my fogging breaths, and felt the most limber I had in years. Now, at my age, I appreciated the value of these exercises that so many of my Legion comrades had dismissed as fancy-pants.

Returning my awareness to myself, I noticed Cyrus watching me from his post beside the front door to the Hall of Blades. "Good morning, Julian," he greeted me. My cheeks warmed with embarrassment.

"I'm sure I looked pretty foolish just now," I muttered. Meeting his gaze more squarely, I smiled. "Good morning, Cyrus."

"No, that wasn't foolish at all," the big Redguard assured me, his teeth gleaming in the growing dawn. "A little awkward maybe," he conceded with a shrug, "but some of those moves looked hard."

"Well," I moved toward the east wing. "I'm out of shape, so they are harder than they should be." My hand on the door handle, I glanced back at Cyrus. "See you later, brother."

Again, his teeth shone. "Later, sister," he said.

Inside, I found Martin and an armored Blade hunched over mugs of steaming fluid. The priest - no, Emperor - caught my eye and waved for me to join them. Pausing to load up a plate with food from a sideboard, I joined them. The Blade - no, Grandmaster Jauffre! - pushed a mug at me, and held up the klah pitcher with a questioning look.

"Thanks, Grandmaster," I said, sitting down next to him and across from Martin. "Good morning to both of you."

"How are you feeling today, Julian?" Jauffre asked as I started into my grub. Smoked boar strips, scrambled eggs seasoned with salt, pepper and scallions, fresh-baked bread covered with amber honey, and yet another red-and-green apple, with my stomach craving it all.

"Hmm," I said around a mouthful of food before swallowing. "Pretty good, actually, sir." Jauffre and Martin exchanged glances. "Other than being hungry," I added, a little abashed.

"You're getting fit," Jauffre observed, taking a sip of his klah. "You're not as gaunt and sickly as you were when I first met you over seven days ago."

Pausing to consider his words, I realized he was right. "I'm surprised, I think," I said, finally. "I thought I would be slower to regain my strength." Looking down at my plate, I refilled my fork. "Of course, this is much better than Legion grub, sir."

Jauffre chuckled. "We've got a bunch of youngsters to feed here, Julian," he commented. Youngsters? These Blades are in their third and fourth decades! Shooting him a look, I caught the flash of humor in his bright eyes. That sparkle faded as he regarded me for a few moments more. "I doubt you're at your full strength yet, Julian," he commented. "You've lived a hard life before Emperor Uriel found you, and it has taken its toll."

Uncomfortable about the turn the conversation had taken, I met Martin's gaze across the table. "And you, Sire, have you been able to sleep?" The dark circles under his eyes still remained.

"No, I still can't," he admitted, crossing his arms on the table and setting the cup at his elbow. "Though my appetite is returning. Hopefully that means sleep can't be too far behind." Again he and Jauffre exchanged glances. Now what is that all about?

"Grandmaster," I said to the Breton next to me, "Captain Steffan said that you would decide what my place here is."

"Ah, yes," Jauffre nodded, his eyes moving to his mug. "Martin and I were just discussing that. The Amulet of Kings is crucial to things now. Without it, it would be difficult to prove Martin's claim to the Ruby Throne."

"Prove his claim?" I repeated, looking at Martin. "Why, anyone who has ever seen Uriel Septim would see him in Martin!"

"It's not so simple," Martin met my gaze from under level brows. "The Dragonfires are out, and the Amulet of Kings is necessary to relight them. Without the Dragonfires, the barriers between Nirn and Oblivion are open. That Gate you closed at Kvatch is an example of that failure."

As I stared at him, my mind jittered over the implications of his statement. "You mean, more Oblivion Gates can open?" I whispered. "There can be more Kvatches?"

Martin nodded, his hazel eyes grim. Leaning back, I took a deep breath. "By Akatosh." Cacat. Cacat! Visions of burned out cities, haunted refugees, crying children flashed through my mind, interspersed with images of dremora and tortured soldiers. My heartbeat slowed down, became a dull thud in my chest. No. We can't let that happen. We have to find the Amulet. "We have to find the Amulet," I echoed myself, blinking to bring myself back to the present. "But how?"

"That is your next task, Julian," Jauffre responded. "As a Blades sister, you do realize that you are now under my command."

"Of course, Grandmaster," I responded. "That goes without saying, sir."

"Good, we understand each other," Jauffre took a sip. "We need to recover the Amulet before the enemy takes it out of our reach. The problem is, we don't know who the enemy is. I'm hoping Baurus has managed to learn something more about the assassins." He glanced again at me. "He is still in the Imperial City, working undercover. You can find him at Luther Broad's Boarding House in the Elven Gardens District."

"You want me to go find Baurus, learn out what he knows?" I asked.

"Not quite," Jauffre responded. "I want you to find him, and place yourself under his command. He'll find some use for you, I'm sure."

Studying the black liquid in my mug, I considered his words. On the one hand, I found myself delighted to see Baurus again. He had been my first friend in this new life I found myself in. Would he feel the same way about me? His parting words to me gave hope that he indeed felt the same sense of comradeship that I did, the kind of bond that arises during intense combat.

On the other hand, I quailed at the thought of returning to the Imperial City, the place of my incarceration. Still unable to remember the events that led to my imprisonment, I wasn't sure that I wouldn't be thrown back into Prison. What if the City Watch recognizes me?

Meeting Jauffre's steady gaze, I took another breath. "When do you want me to leave, Grandmaster?"

Draining his mug, Jauffre rose to his feet, taking his plate and fork. "As soon as you feel well enough to travel, Julian," he said. "Time is critical, but you're no use to us if you push yourself into a breakdown." Stepping to a dry sink, he placed his dishes on the scratch pile within.

"Then I will leave this morning," I glanced at Martin. "By your leave, Sire."

He closed his eyes momentarily, then held my gaze. "Be careful, Julian." I nodded at him, then rose to my feet to add my own breakfast debris to the dry sink. "I'd hate to lose my companion," he added behind me. The words shook me. Sun's Companion. Son's Companion. Turning to look at him, still seated at the table, I saw how lonely he looked there.

"I will see you again, Sire," I put as much conviction as I felt into my voice. Martin lifted his gaze to mine and smiled.

"I do not doubt it, Julian."

Nothing like starting out a story with a hearty breakfast! Julian and the Blades certainly eat better than the Fighters Guild in Bravil, at least when it comes to most meals.

This was a welcome sight:
"That is your next task, Julian," Jauffre responded. "As a Blades sister, you do realize that you are now under my command."
"Of course, Grandmaster," I responded. "That goes without saying, sir."
The game treats becoming a Blade as some sort of honorary title, and continues along with Jauffre and Martin asking you to do things. It is very refreshing to see a dose of reality. That as a Blade, you have signed away your ability to decide whether or not you feel like doing one thing or another. Instead you are a soldier, and must do what you are told, simple as that.

Once more, I loved this:
Sun's Companion. Son's Companion.
Now that we know Martin, this is even stronger, enough to bring goosebumps down the spine.


Edit to add:
Given Destri's question about the Way of the Crane, when I was reading it I was imagining something similar to White Crane Kung Fu (Pak Hok)?