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Underwater"Well, that was pleasant." Estormo hissed as he levered his potion invisible frame out of a sewer drain into a dimly lit room with three large tanks of water on one side, a desk and computer on the other and a closed door with keypad on one end, a dark hallway at the other."Snark later Estormo." A soft voice retorted close to his ear."Fuck off Jules." He whispered, adjusting the ear piece and slipping forward as his eyes adjusted to the lighting. "Are you getting this?""Wish I wasn't. What are those things?""Some sort of water tanks. Maybe for their Argonian prisoners?" He suggested, quelling the disquieting thought that this was where his clairvoyance spell had indicated his target was."Then why did your spell suggest this way for our rescue?""Trying not to think about it." He said, shutting up and looking around fast when he heard the faint scuff of boots on metal. Spotting a promising spot near the ceiling he dashed up the ramp leading to the tops of the tanks and jumped into the rafters, holding still as soon as he was in position, holding another invisibility potion in his hand just in case.The steps echoed loudly as they got closer, almost drowning out the soft voices of the two Thalmor who walked out of the dark hallway. "Did you want me to increase the frequency Sir?""No. We'll increase the voltage first. I need her to suffer for what she's done. But if we only increase the frequency it could push her past her limit too quickly and there is still more I want from her.""As you say, sir."Estormo scowled, watching the Justiciar, turning his attention to the other when he sat at the computer and started typing. Password protected. Bet Jules could get into it but I'm not good enough."Done sir.""Good. Make sure to check her tank periodically. We cannot risk her being able to get to the earring.""Of course, Sir." Pushing back from the computer, he walked over to the door and tapped something into keypad and followed the Justiciar out. Dropping down, drinking the invisibility potion just in case, he moved down the dark hallway, listening hard for any signs of life."Did you recognize them?" Jules asked."The Justiciar." He spat. "Ondolemar. Makes sense he'd oversee this personally since he was one of her trainers."The next room was near identical to the first, the tanks empty and he passed through it quickly, finding a locked door at the end of the next hallway. Looking down at the pin pad, he frowned. "Jules?""Yup. Working on it."As he waited, Estormo adjusted his gloves, trying not to think about what he might find in the next area. All my time spent with the Golds, and this is one place I've never been in. What do they do here that is bad enough to hide from them?"7, 3, 0, 2, 1, 9." Jules whispered and he typed it in, watching the door click ajar. "I've got the alarms silenced for this room for now. There's an alert that gets sent every time it's opened.""Of course there..." He trailed off, staring at the tank in front of him.This tank wasn't empty. Which. He'd expected. But the reality of it hit him hard. A High Elf woman floated in the tank, completely submerged, her hands behind her back, the water around her clouding momentarily with red before it was swirled away, and he realized that it was constantly being refreshed. Looking around the room, he spotted a walkway leading to the top of the tank, swallowing hard at the sight of the rack nested off to the side, the surgeon cart next to it. Never gets any easier to see and this time... I didn't realize it would be so hard to see her like this."I have the layout." Jules whispered. "There's a keypad attached to the top of the tank. Type exactly what I tell you.""Got it." He responded, moving swiftly to the top of the ramp, kneeling by the keypad, grimacing when blue-white light flared in the tank. Voltage. Damnit."7, 1, 5, 0, 4, 9, 4, 2."The tank hissed, the water stilling before the lid slid back. With a click the lid stopped, leaving it open and the current started again, pushing the occupant to the edge of the tank. Reaching down he yanked her out. "Virwen." He murmured, pulling her onto his lap and severing the binds, relieved to see they were rope and not chain, searching in his pack for a potion he could wave under her nose, casting a minor healing spell to seal the wounds he could see beginning to open, knowing he didn't dare risk anything stronger for fear it could be detected."Is she waking up?" Jules asked."No. I'm going to have to use a strength potion to give me a boost and carry her out of here. What's my route?""Back the way you came. So far it's still clear but hurry.""Of course." He agreed, downing a strength potion and another invisibility potion, mentally blessing the Nord Sell Sword who made them work together.The potion made it almost too easy to lift the woman and he quickly rushed down the hall, trying not to jostle her as he ran, awkwardly levering her over his shoulder to lift the grate and drop down into the sewer tunnel.She shifted slightly when he was almost halfway through, and he picked up the pace. "How's it looking?""You're still in the clear. I've got your pickup waiting for you. Look for a cart with a Nord driving it. Yellow eyes. Dark blonde hair. Code word; leverage""Got it." The sunlight was a welcome change from the sewers and the Nord was waiting as promised with the correct word, a small cart and a draft horse that looked ready to keel over. He jerked his head toward the back, draping a heavy canvas over both of them, a rattle of wood indicating that he was putting a false bottom over them that creaked when he layered his 'cargo' over the top.He cradled Virwen close, trying to keep her still so the cart’s motion wouldn’t reopen her wounds, listening to the rattle of wood and metal as it moved. A gasping breath announced the woman waking up and he tightened his grip instinctively, grimacing when she whimpered. "Shh. Shh. You're safe now. You're safe." He whispered, awkwardly moving a hand to one of hers, dragging it up to one of his ears, feeling her muscles relax as she ran her fingers over his multiple earrings. With a soft groan she went limp. "Where?" She managed."No clue. We're in a cart to safety. That's all I know right now." He responded."She awake finally?" Jules asked.He ignored him. "We'll get you to Skyrim. You'll be safe there."She laughed softly, bitterly. "Sure.""You'll see." He promised. "Couple hours until the safe house." Jules reported. "Your driver says no sign of pursuit yet and we've got more waiting to watch your path."He nodded slightly, almost smiling when Virwen reached up and traced his earrings again. I was worried she wouldn’t recognize me."Trackers?" She murmured."No chance of them." Jules said in Estormo's ear. "We've got a frequency scrambler in the cart. We'll do a proper debugging at the safe house. But I don't expect anything considering she was in a tank of water.""We took measures." Estormo assured her, choosing not to pass on everything he'd said in his ear. She doesn't need to listen to the specifics. And might be best she doesn't know I've got an earpiece in. "Try to get some sleep. I'll wake you when we get to the safe house.""Hmm.""I promise." He said, gently rubbing circles on her back until her muscles relaxed further, careful not to press hard enough to reopen wounds. Safe HouseThe rattle of the false bottom being removed snapped Estormo awake, and he jolted slightly, his right arm asleep from his sleeping position He shifted, reaching for one of his blades when the canvas was flipped off and he blinked, looking up into the Nord driver's face, nodding slightly when he jerked his head toward the end of the cart."Can you move?" He whispered when Virwen shifted."Which direction?" She asked, turning her head slightly and he grimaced to see that her eyes were squeezed tightly closed."I can lift you out if you'll trust me to do that." The Nord offered."Not much choice." She responded, her voice breathy with pain."True." He agreed, hopping into the cart and pulling her up easily. "What's the earring?"Estormo managed to get to his feet, muscles protesting and looked at what the Nord was looking at, reaching a hand up to the piece of jewelry, unhooking it from her ear, inwardly cursing at the crusted blood and puss that came with it."They needed to put the water breathing enchantment somewhere." Virwen whispered."Bring her inside." A new voice ordered, a slender Nord with long brown-red hair approaching the cart, casting a spell over all of them before they could react. "You're clean. No trackers except what's expected."Estormo followed the Nords, attention on Virwen, hovering over her when she was placed down on a bed.The Nord woman sat down next to her, holding her hands just above her, frowning in concentration as white-gold light enveloped the High Elf. "They just about blinded you." She growled. "How long did they keep you underwater?"Virwen coughed, twisting on her side with the Nord's help to cough up some water into a basin. "Don't know. Long enough they chose a water breathing enchantment over potions.""They could have deafened you with that too." She grumbled, holding glowing fingertips over the space where the earring had been."How did you find me?""We have our ways. You should know that." The woman said serenely then sighed, brushing some hair out of Virwen's face. "We'll make introductions in the morning. That will give us enough time to make sure we're not at risk of being discovered.""Alright.""You'll stay with her?" She asked, turning to look at Estormo.He nodded."Good. I'll be back in a few minutes with something for her to eat and some warm wash water." "I know you. Don't I?" Virwen said softly when the healer had left. “I thought I recognized your voice and earrings in the cart.” "We've met." He agreed, moving to sit next to her, caressing her cheek lightly. And you're as beautiful as the first day I saw you. I'm glad you're on our side. He frowned. Though I wish your luck hadn't run out. Need to find out from Jules if he discovered who got you caught. "You're the one who flirted with me during that extraction with the Golds some months back." She accused.He laughed. "Guilty as charged. You're beautiful when you blush. Well... not just."He smiled at the blush that darkened her skin now, letting the backs of his fingers linger on her cheek, frowning as he studied the puffiness around her eyes. "Why underwater?"She sighed. "Disorientation. Easier to run a current." Her eyelids moved and she grimaced, turning her head slightly. "Muffles sounds.""I'm sorry.""It was always a risk." She whispered, turning further into the blankets, breath evening out as she fell back to sleep."She'll be in and out for a few days." The healer said from the doorway, coming in with a tray. "Go on out to the kitchen. I'll get her cleaned up, give her eyes a bit more attention. I'll leave some soup on the side table. If you don't feel comfortable helping her eat when she wakes up, just let me know."He nodded, backing out of the room and heading toward the kitchen where his shoulders relaxed on seeing a large red-haired Nord he recognized pouring coffee into a mug while the blonde driver told him about the trip."How is she?" The red-head, Sarlfi, asked, reaching the coffee out toward him, grinning when he accepted it with a sigh of relief."Can’t open her eyes. Ears are messed up. Dozens of other injuries I was only able to seal so she wouldn't leave a trail a drunk could follow." He said shortly, leaning against a counter, carefully pushing the images back behind other images he had from other rescue operations. "They've got. Huge vats of water. Had her in one. Were running electric currents through it. Fucking bastards." He grumbled, his fingers tightening on his coffee mug."If we'd realized it was going to hit you this hard, Fasendil would have sent someone else." Sarlfi said quietly. "Silka finished her sweep. And we got word from our contacts. They've started searching but they're mostly using magic so far. We're safe to use names for a couple days.""Silka." He mused. "The healer. Your sister, right?"Sarlfi nodded. "Yes. She doesn't come on these often, but the Companions borrowed my strongest healer for a Silver Hand mission and Fasendil knows her reputation from speaking with Viarmo at the Bards College."Estormo smiled, sipping at his coffee again. "It's incredible just how far your organization connects.""Only way we're going to win this." The cart driver pointed out. "Sinding by the way. Don't often get to help out with these. Nice change."Estormo lifted an eyebrow."Usually I'm working Silver Hand ops." He clarified. "It is exceedingly rare that a rescue succeeds.""Something to be said for Thalmor obsession with torture then." "Good morning beautiful." Estormo whispered, smirking at the blush that raised on Virwen's cheeks, resting a hand on the side of her face, studying her eyes, admiring the swirls of blue and green. "I was hoping you'd be able to open your eyes before I had to leave."Leaning in when her flush brightened, he pressed his lips to her forehead. "I still owe you that coffee. I'll come find you when you've had a chance to settle in somewhere safe.""You're leaving?""As heartbreaking as it is. Yes." He grinned at her huffed sigh. "Duty calls. Fasendil will be here later today."She looked up at him. "Thank you.""I hope to never do it again." He responded then sobered. "But I would in a heartbeat.""Flirt."Laughing, he leaned in and kissed her forehead again. "I'll see you around Little Virwen."
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Artist's Muse "You fur is like the softest down. Your eyes like morning dew." With a grin and a flourish, Alec, self-monikered Prince of Song, finished his words and looked at the Khajiit woman who listened to him, rapt attention on her face."You have honeyed words Alec." She said primly, resting her chin on one clawed hand. "What shall this one do with you?""Let's run away together!" He proposed automatically, grinning at her heavy sigh. "No? I thought for sure you'd agree to it this time Tsavani.""No. No. This one has much to do before I can retire from my job.""Your job stifles you, my Muse. My sweet woman. My darling. Pearl of my heart.""This one wonders when you will run out of words." She responded, shaking her head at him, laying down and spreading out on the picnic blanket."You could and should run away with me." He said briskly, tuning his lute as he spoke. "You know that the risks you take grow greater by the day. Let someone else take that position for once. Be free!""You are a bad influence." She chided, crawling across the blanket to lay her head in his lap.With a grin, he set his lute to the side and stroked her face. "What would I do without my muse?"With a scoffing laugh she reached up and caressed his face with a small smile. "This one hopes you will never need to find out.""This one does too." He responded, leaning in to give her a kiss. "I love you Tsavani. You are my blessed muse. My reason for composing. Please don't get yourself killed trying to resist people so much stronger.""It is this one's sacred calling." She said, patting his cheek gently. "Perhaps you could sing me another song before we discuss when I must depart next?""Alright beloved. We can do it your way." He told her, reaching down to rub just above her nose, grinning at the soft purr she gave him.Humming softly for a moment he launched into his favorite love song, watching Tsavani's face as he sang, trying not to smile when she sighed contentedly and closed her eyes, settling herself further into his lap.Letting the last note linger in the air for a long moment after he'd finished, he watched her sleep, not fighting the smile now. "You are my muse my darling." He whispered, stroking her fur gently with one hand, staring up at the sky, resting his weight on one hand. "I never thought I'd be able to be with you. I will never take this for granted."Taking out a notebook and pen he started writing down the lyrics to a new song, grinning over how sappy they sounded even to his ear. "I believe this one will take a great amount of editing to get it to its appropriate levels." He murmured,'When you smile, all I can think, is how much I love to love you. Your every whisker shines like spun silver. Your fur the most expensive velvet. You've claimed my heart. I gave my soul. My muse. My heart is yours. I will wait for you no matter where you go or when.'"Sounds less like a song and more like a recitation right now." She chided gently, smiling up at him. "I love you too.""I am sorry I woke you." He said, shifting so she could sit up easier."It is alright." She assured him, moving over to their basket and sorting through the food."Tell me a story of the last mission? Perhaps I could incorporate it into my song?""It wasn't so exciting." She protested. "This one barely had any work to do.""How did you manage not to get split up?" He asked, setting his book to the side."We did split up." She responded. "We were supposed to split up. How else would we make sure that we covered every inch of that prison? And this one spent most of her time in the kitchen, making certain that the top layer of their storage looked briefly picked over, but underneath is where the rot is." She gave him a toothy grin. "I hope that Rulindil gets food poisoning and never recovers.""That would make our lives a lot easier." He agreed, giving her a small smile."Let us not speak of work now." She suggested, passing him some bread layered thickly with snowberry jam."Anything you wish, my muse. But, perhaps a little, for the music?" He responded, holding a hand up when she lashed her tail and glared. "Alright my sweet. No more speaking of work until we've left this place. I swear it on my honor."Satisfied, she moved back across the blanket, sighing contentedly when she leaned against him. He smiled, shifting his weight and wrapping his free arm around her, mind busily trying out words that rhymed with 'tail.'
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Countryside"Perfect." Fasendil whispered, pushing back slowly from the overhang, rising slowly and brushing his pants off. A low whistle had his horse, Iron, at his side and a few seconds later he was swinging into the saddle, gathering reins in his hand and loping across the farmland that dotted this part of Whiterun Hold toward the city proper.The glint of sun off metal was his only warning before a squad of Thalmor were spilling from behind a farmhouse another from a barn, three mounted who spurred their Alinor imported steeds to easily outstrip the Skyrim bred horse he nudged into a gallop, cutting him off, spooking his normally steady steed into dancing on his hind legs, the former legate holding tightly to Iron's mane as he screamed his discomfort.A flash of light and he lost his seat to a shock spell, hitting the ground hard, trying to force his lungs to cooperate while his mind screamed that he had to Get UP! The Thalmor were laughing, approaching with easy pace when he managed to stand. I'm too old for this. When did that happen? He wondered, a quick glance showing him that Iron was standing at his side, sides heaving, ears flat against his skull. Good horse. Drawing his sword slowly, he settled into a swordsman's stance."You've been a thorn in our side too long Legate Fasendil." One of the riders said, chuckling as they approached. "What could you hope to do? You're outnumbered and we're not going to let you die here."That gives me an advantage. Snarling, he shifted his blade slightly and threw a firebolt at the ground beneath the approaching horses feet.They screamed their fear, pitching with the riders until one of the footmen settled the flames with ice."Bring him in!" The rider shouted and the footmen charged.Iron lashed out, catching the first, Fasendil moving in to parry a sword and touch the wielder with fire, moving past immediately, clinically. How many can I take before they drop me?They pushed in, trying to surround him, pushing him back, Iron charging past him to force space.Crossbows clicked and Fasendil lurched, throwing fire with blurred vision when Iron staggered to his knees.He pushed to his horse's side, taking wounds to his sword arm that threatened to drop him, screaming his rage to Auri El when one of the foot soldiers slit Iron's throat and a halberdier he hadn't even noticed slashed the back of his leg, hamstringing him, dropping him to the ground.Swords ringed him, and he glared up at them, the leader pushing his horse forward with a smile. "To think we were so worried about you." He reached a hand up to his ear, a strange look crossing his face, the soldiers looking at him when he didn't say anything for a moment, when he toppled out of the saddle, an Imperial Fasendil recognized crouched on the horse's back, two bloodied daggers in their hands, a cold, terrifying smile on their face."Sorry we're late." They said, leaping from the horse's back when it bucked, eerie howls echoing across the plains, the soldiers pulling away from Fasendil to face this new threat, two of them falling to archers they couldn't see.His leg useless, Fasendil dragged himself to Iron's side, leaning against his body, dashing tears away with one hand and throwing fire with the other, hope lending to his accuracy as the Imperial drew the Thalmor into snarls that turned into panicked fleeing when two werewolves threw themselves into the fray.A russet colored wolf chased after the horses, pouncing on the first rider who fell, the second falling to arrows.Seconds later, a second Imperial was at his side, giving him a reassuring smile while she healed him. "How did?" He started."Estormo overheard some gossip. Got in contact with us as soon as he was safe to do so." She said, shaking her head when he looked at his horse. "I'm sorry. There's nothing I can do for him."He nodded, swallowing against the thickness in his throat, staggering to his feet when she gave him a hand up, staggering again when a solid body slammed into him and he got a flash of dark hair and grey skin before hands were on his face, a familiar mouth on his.Tears fell, and he managed a wavering smile when Sevan pulled back. "I will be alright..." He started, Sevan kissing him again, holding him close before lowering his head to Fasendil's chest for a long moment when the Altmer returned the embrace."That was too close." He finally growled, stepping back a pace, grabbing Fasendil's hand as his rescuers gathered into two small groups, distant enough to give him and Sevan space."Thank you." He murmured, looking at the mismatched group. The Companion twins wiping blood off their faces, the Imperials standing near them, the healer Vitene, fussing over Farkas, the other, Copper, laughing and shaking their head at Vilkas. They were not the archers. "Considering our location; the Companions and Vitene I am not surprised by though I hadn't realized Copper was in the area. Who were the archers?"Sevan jerked his head toward a pair of Nords fussing over the russet wolf. "Bishop and Rheanna. They were passing through to Markarth with Copper. Thought they'd get a warmer welcome from Cael if Rheanna introduced them.""And you?" He asked softly."I wanted to be nearby in case something happened." He admitted. "So, I found a reason to speak with the Companions." He pulled the taller man into another embrace. "I hate that something did.""I'm going to miss him." He murmured, pulling away from Sevan to kneel by Iron, stroking the horse's neck gently."I know." Sevan agreed, moving to crouch next to him. "He was a good horse.""The best." He said, bowing his head, trying not to let the growing grief weigh him down yet.With a small sigh, Sevan leaned past him, drawing a small knife and cutting a chunk from the gelding's mane, tucking it into his pouch. "Come on love. We can't stay here." He murmured, rising and tugging Fasendil after him.He sighed, glaring at the Thalmor scattered around. "We should burn them." He suggested, his voice hard."Let me take care of that." Copper approached, winding their long hair into a neat bun. "I can make sure there's no trace of them left. Vilkas says that Nevian and Lucien are waiting back in Whiterun. That they've got a medical room for you and then you can go over what happened." They frowned. "Either they've got one of Mephala's people spying on all of us or you've got a leak."Fasendil sighed, reaching up to rub at his face. "Yes." He agreed. "I know.""Let's go." Sevan said, tugging at his hand. "I want..." He trailed off, giving him a half shrug.Fasendil nodded. It's been a long time since we were field agents but not so long that I don't remember how you'd fear for me. "I know." He looked at Copper. "Make sure no one can track you by your fire." He ordered.They grinned and gave him a small salute. "I'll make sure of it." They promised, moving past him toward the anti-social Nords still hovering nearby."I will need to thank Rheanna later. I suspect she will say she's just repaying the favor." He murmured, giving Iron one last longing look before letting Sevan lead him away.
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Day Four: Dinosaurs"This may have been a mistake." Ancano said, staring at the pouring rain making a mess of their path out of the ruin."Who even gave you that intel?" Mati asked, hunching her shoulders and pulling her hood further over her face.The High Elf shrugged before sitting down next to his Breton companion. "It was as much to try and draw out the plant as anything else.""Alright." She grumbled. "I suppose I can see that. But did you see that thing Ancano? Even if we could tame it, it's not fast enough to take out a gryphon unless it's sleeping on the ground, forget about if it goes airborne.""You have a point there." He agreed, resisting the urge to reach out and wrap his arm around the woman. It'd just make her colder with how soaked she is. We need to get somewhere dry. "Fascinating creature though the Haj Mota. Wonder what else these lands have in store.""Are we sure we want to go all the way into Black Marsh?" She asked. "Maybe we should go back to Leyawiin.""You don't want to follow up on the rumors of the Swamp Leviathan?" He asked, smiling over at her. "I'm sure the Justiciars would have quite a difficult time with one of those.""The Argonian Account claimed they had nine Foot claws Ancano. Which means it would have to be bigger than a dragon. How could something that big even get around?"He shrugged, reaching out to clasp her hand, frowning over how chilled it was. "I suspect that it, much like that Haj Mota, is an ambush predator. I suppose that would make it difficult to utilize as a weapon. We could talk to some of the Argonians about taming Wamasu though.""You think they actually exist?" She asked. "Every piece of leather I've ever seen that has had the Wamasu label on it has turned out to be something else when tested by a skilled Restoration mage.""Yes. The Haj Mota exists, and I'm certain I saw a Hackwing earlier. Besides, they are certainly easier to believe in than the Swamp Leviathan.""That's true." She sighed, leaning back slightly. "Maybe we should be looking at local fauna back in Skyrim. See what they make of the Mammoths.""Not sure how far they'd be able to bring the Gryphons in anyway. Most of them don't do too well when it gets very cold.""And how well would these lizards do?" She mused. "Now I'm even more convinced there's something wrong with that intelligence.""It's possible." He admitted. "So, we'll have to be careful on our way back. Make sure we don't run into an ambush." He grinned. "But we're already so close. Are you certain you don't want to try to see if the Leviathans are real?"She glared up at him. "Do you?""I'm more concerned about the Fleshflies honestly." He admitted, lifting her chin and tilting her head slightly. "Not that I'd love you any less but I'm partial to how your face looks now."She flushed as deeply as he'd hoped and he leaned in to brush his nose against hers, amusement lighting up his face."So, what do you propose we do?" She asked softly, just audible over the rain."I propose we go back to Leyawiin as you suggested, find a nice quiet inn, and then consider our options from there."He laughed when her flush moved to the tips of her slightly pointed ears, running two fingers up the side of one of them. "As much as I would like to warm you up here, it wouldn't solve the wet."She glanced to the side, face still bright. "So do we wait out the rain or make a run for it?"Rising, he offered her his hand, studying the soupy mess ahead of them before peering up at the sky. "I fear that this rain will last several days." He admitted, looking back down and wiping rain off his face."So, we just have to..." She trailed off, tugging at his jacket. "Ancano.""What is it?" He asked, peering into the rain. "Is there something out there?""Probably, but… What if this was the point? What if the suggestion of Swamp Leviathans and Wamasu was to lure some of us out here during a season that makes the marsh deadly? They may have people in Leyawiin watching for our return. But they could be relying on the swamp. Which means it won't lure out the plant.""Then we'll just have to make sure they fail." He responded, his voice growing cold. "Mati." He turned to face her, gripping her hands. "Hold tightly. I have a recall spell attached to my chambers in the College. We're going home, lizards be damned.""That's a far distance. You could burn yourself out.""Which is why I need you to hold onto me. I'm going to need to concentrate." He said.Rooting through her pockets, she pulled an aqua colored potion free. "Drink this first." She demanded, passing it up to him.With a short nod he tossed it back, feeling it fortify his magicka. I might survive this. He thought, giving her a small smile when she wrapped her arms tightly around him. Closing his eyes, he focused on his spell, tracing the runes in the air until he was certain he had them right. "Hey." Mati whispered.Opening his eyes slowly, Ancano groaned, feeling for his magic immediately, sighing with relief when he found it intact though severely depleted. "Hey yourself." He said, swaying where he stood, looking around the room.Maps of Blackwood were strewn about his desk, a handful of Black Marsh on the floor. The bestiaries they'd studied so meticulously in the lead-up to their trip were gone and he carefully pulled away from Mati to walk the room."Interesting." Mati said softly, surveying the damage herself, casting a spell that swept through the entirety of the room, sparks and little puffs of smoke trailing away from several nooks."We can surmise that they understand now where my loyalty lies." Ancano said grimly. "A clever ploy. I am disappointed that we did not see through it before we devoted so much time studying this counter measure."Crossing the floor to his side, Mati pushed herself up to she could brush a gentle kiss on his cheek. "It was going to happen someday." She pointed out. "But the swamps did not drown us, nor did the creatures devour us. And that's something to be celebrated."Turning to her, he rested his hands on her hips and smiled, the harsh lines of worry and anger on his face softening. "Alright Breton. You are correct." He said, leaning down and brushing his lips lightly against hers. "We'll inform Urag and Savos of our return and then divest ourselves of these wet garments.""And spend our nights in a better room than an inn could offer. Warm ourselves up properly." She said, grinning when he flushed."I look forward to it." He murmured, forcing himself to pull back. "It's good to be home."
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Teachers "Why do I have to do it?" Estormo complained. "I don't even like people.""You have to do it because you're the best we have." Fasendil said, giving him a pointed look when he flopped dramatically into his chair. "And you will treat your fellow teacher with respect.""I am not the best we have." He countered, twisting in the chair so he was lying with his legs draped over the back, his head dangling down. This is not the comfortable position it was when I was younger. Seems to be irritating Fasendil though so I wonder how long I can stay here."Then who would you suggest?"Someone who isn't me. "Ancano has gone how long without being discovered?""We have reason to believe that he is suspected."He twisted back around, levering himself to his feet quickly enough that he staggered with dizziness. "For true?" And he didn't tell me? When did it happen?"Yes.""Damn. We need to stopper that leak before your entire network gets itself murdered." And everyone attached with it. "Thank you for that succinct breakdown of the situation." Fasendil said dryly. "You'll teach this class, or I'll find somewhere more useful for you to be."Somewhere more useful when Fasendil is in a bad mood is usually unpleasant. "Fine.""Alright listen up. I don't want to be here. Most of you are smart enough that you don't need..." Estormo trailed off, staring at the woman standing in front of the otherwise empty room."They're not here yet." She said, folding her arms over her chest and surveying him with a long look."What are you doing here?" He asked, moving across the classroom, leaning against the lectern, straightening when it almost toppled, catching the slight smirk on Virwen's face when he overbalanced, moving closer to her. Something new learned. You've got a sense of humor buried inside. I like it."I'm here to teach. I presume that it's the same for you?" She asked."You should still be recovering." He protested. "Field Agents are mandated six months. Fasendil's rules.""Well, with the leak, he thought that it was better for people to get extra training." She said, looking up at him when he came closer."You volunteered, didn't you?" He accused, grinning when she flushed."I don't sit still well." She admitted."Something we have in common then." He said."Is it?" She asked, straightening from her papers. "Here. I've detailed some of my notes. What do you want to add?""Is it a joint lecture?""Did Fasendil not tell you?""He might have but I was a bit busy trying to figure a way out of it." He said, grinning when she sighed heavily."Why did you agree at all then? I know Fasendil. He wouldn't have forced you.""He said he'd find something useful for me to do. And useful for Fasendil when he's irate is usually somewhere unpleasant."She smiled and his breath caught. "For you maybe. You probably bring out the worst in him.""The worst? I never pegged you as a cruel woman. But I may need to reassess." The creak of the door opening announced the first of the students, cutting off anything she might have responded with, and he sighed, stepping away from her. Damn it. I was enjoying that.Four of their agents filtered in and he listened to Virwen introduce herself as Silver Indrik with a curious tilt to his head. So that was one of your code names? I should've realized that, but you're talked about like some sort of legend. Granted, from what little I saw of your skills, you lived up to that.With an easy smirk he gave the agents one of his code names, watching a few exchanged glances, looking at Virwen to see if she'd noticed. She didn't look at him, her attention on the people in front of her and he sighed again, trying to focus on the lesson. The class was grueling. The agents asking questions that he had to actually think to get the answers to and his shoulders sagged with relief when the last of them left.Virwen leaned on the lectern for a moment, and he gave her a small smile. "Are you alright?""Just tired." She responded, straightening and sorting her papers before sliding them away. "Maybe I should've taken a page from your book and just not brought anything.""I brought plenty." He countered, tapping his head, grinning when she rolled her eyes."Was what you brought lessons for how to hit on someone?""Alas no. That lesson is learned through trial and error. And I didn't say anything about hitting on anyone through the entire lesson.""That's true."Smirking, he leaned against the wall. "Virwen. Can I buy you a coffee?""I suppose you deserve one." She said, pulling away from the lectern. "My treat for pulling me out of that tank.""You don't owe me anything Little Virwen." He responded. "Or should I call you Silver Indrik?""You know you should not." Tugging at her short ponytail she quirked her mouth slightly."It's a beautiful code name. Legendary. I had no idea it was yours and I feel perhaps I should have."She tugged harder. "Why is that?""I researched your organization extensively when my superior first introduced it to me. Your name came up a lot.""Good to know.""Why are you tugging on your hair like that?" He wondered, tilting his head slightly when she walked over to him."I'm thinking. Call it a tell.""It's a new one..." He broke off, startled when she grabbed his jacket lapels and yanked him toward her, planting a firm kiss on his lips before pulling away with a sharp nod."There. That's out of the way." She said briskly, her skin brightly flushed."Oh, that's not..." He reached out, gently grabbing her wrist and tugging her back toward him, lifting his free hand to the back of her head and kissing her, pleasure sparking through him when she leaned into the kiss. "I feel like this is not what Fasendil meant when he told me to be nice to my fellow teacher." He muttered.She laughed. "Perhaps not. Now about that coffee?""Laughter looks good on you Virwen. And how about we skip coffee and go straight for the lunch date? We have no other classes until tomorrow and I've always wanted to explore Riften."She considered it, tilting her head slightly. "You'll find that mirth isn't something I indulge in often.""Understandable considering what you've been through." He said."You know what I've been through. You know I'm scarred in more than one way. And yet you're still attracted.""Impossible not to end up with scars in our line of work." You are striking. And your mind is sharper than most. What's not attractive about that? He sighed. "Already thinking of reasons we shouldn't get involved?""Surprisingly no. I just want to make sure I accept that you understand. And to make it clear that for the most part. I need to take things slow."Oh. That's better than I expected. "So, coffee first then. Nothing strange with two teachers strolling out for that after classes.""Coffee first." She agreed. "Someone here introduced me to the best coffee shop in Riften. We'll go there." "How are you liking living here?" He asked, following her out of the ratway, breathing in the fresher air with relief."It keeps me sharp." She said, studying a shadow as they passed it. "I appreciate that.""One day we'll be able to stop looking at shadows."She laughed. "Not here. Not unless you want to enrich the Thieves Guild.""I see." He muttered, eyeing an alleyway with a bit more suspicion, pleased when Virwen laughed again."You will." The Coffee Shop was more stand than shop and Estormo took his cues for what to order from the woman at his side. The Dark Elf who ran the stand studied him with dark eyes, a hint of suspicious curiosity there and he was unsurprised when a subtle glance after they'd collected their drinks showed him moving a hand below the counter. Hope he's on our side. I'd hate to have an incident sparked so swiftly."Who's the employee?" He asked, studying the people around them as they sat."The owner." Virwen said. "Brand Shei. He's a good man and makes the best coffee in town.""He seems observant."She nodded, sipping at her drink. "Most people in Riften are."He lifted an eyebrow, sipping at his drink, noting the way she scanned the crowd and nodded slightly. She understands what I meant. "The big Nord bruiser. The Red head. He in Riften often? I wanted to ask him something.""No. Your best bet to contact him is through the Companions or..." She frowned, sipping at her drink again. "I might know someone else.""Noted. I'll let you know when I want to contact him." he said, watching a pair of familiar Nords with a wolf at their heels step up to Brand Shei, speaking quietly, the woman shifting her body so Brand Shei's face was obscured. Blocking lip readers. Curious. Is that on purpose?They turned away from him after a moment and moved their way. "Interesting." He muttered.Virwen looked at them, tilting her head slightly, giving a slight nod when they sat at the nearest table. "Rheanna. Bishop." She looked down. "Karnwyr.""How is the tattoo healing?" Rheanna asked. "You're not due for the next part for a week so I thought I'd ask.""It's not as itchy as it was yesterday.""You like tattoos?" He asked, smiling when she nodded. "What did you get?""Maybe I'll show you when Rheanna's finished it." She responded.That makes it sound like it's somewhere private. "Mm. I look forward to it."Her cheeks darkened and Bishop laughed, earning a swat and a warning look from Rheanna. "Be nice." She warned. "I heard there was a heavily pierced Altmer near Brand Shei's. I'm pleased to see who it is since I've been hoping to ask you by the shop so Klimmek can take a look at your piercings. He's hesitant with elves still. Worried about the sensitivity."And this way you can vet me. Make sure I'm still on the level. He thought, looking at Virwen. "Sure. I can have a word with him.""Stare any harder and your eyes will bug out." Bishop whispered, smirking when he glared at him. "Rhea's taken a shine to her. And I know your reputation from talking to Kaidan. Don't toy with her.""My reputation?" He wondered, watching Rheanna talk Virwen into going back to order a sweet roll to split."One I'm familiar with." He responded, watching Rheanna. "Except I'm only known for flirting with women. You're said to flirt with anything that moves excepting your superior. And I would be surprised if you hadn't tried."He choked, coughing hard to dislodge the coffee. "Gods no. He's like a brother. But..." He watched Virwen. "She's a challenge."Bishop sighed. "Look. I understand that. But seriously. Don't toy with her.""She's an adult. She can make her own decisions." He growled, looking at the Nord.Bishop frowned, studying him for a long moment then laughed. "Hah. It's like looking in a mirror. You're smitten. I'll let Rhea know." He jerked his head toward Virwen. "She knows your rep too. You're going to have to make your intentions crystal clear or I bet she'll be expecting you just want a fuck here or there when you're in the same place.""I..." He scowled, tapping the table while the Nord hummed and fussed over his wolf. "Will take that under advisement." He finished."Take what under advisement?" Virwen asked.He shrugged, draining the rest of his coffee. "Best not tell yet. It's always a chancy thing, taking advice from Bishop.""Hey.""I've heard similar about you." Virwen said, accepting her half of the sweet roll from Rheanna. "Considering how today went. Shall we go over tomorrow's lesson beforehand?""I suppose we could." He agreed. "When and where?""There's a restaurant next door to the inn. They have good drinks and better food. We could meet there around dusk. Discuss work.""Alright." He agreed. "Work meetings go quicker when there's good food involved." You've made your boundaries clear. Best thing I can do for both of us is stick to them."They do.""When did you want me to speak with Klimmek?" He asked, looking at the Nords watching him."Now would work unless you've got another obligation?" Rheanna suggested.He shook his head. "No.""Then let's go." She said briskly, rising and grabbing her coffee. "Always a pleasure Virwen. I'll see you next week.""Thank you, Rheanna." Virwen said, nodding to the Nords and giving the wolf a pat before they moved off."I'll see you tonight." Estormo murmured."Estormo. We finish on Tirdas." She rose from her seat. "If you're amenable, I would like to go on a date with you that evening."As if I'd say no! "I'd like that."She smiled. "Then it's settled. Have a good day Estormo. I'll see you later."He watched her walk away for a moment before moving to join the Nords, his steps light, meeting the lifted eyebrow from Bishop with a scowl that made the Nord laugh. Tempted to send Fasendil a message thanking him for this opportunity. But I'll wait until after Tirdas. No need to give him a reason to gloat.
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Faeries"Follow the Nixads." Alec said softly, his fingers running along his lute reflexively, his jaw tight, eyes shimmering with unshed tears as he watched the small faerie dart around the bits of an old shipwreck."This one was told that was a bad idea." Tsavani said, stepping closer, looking up at him, her face mostly shrouded by her red and brown cowl."Oh, it is." He said, giving her a watery smile. "But that's why he'd say it.""Who would?" She asked, reaching out to grasp his hand, tail lashing with concern over his expression."You remember I told you I had a brother." He sighed, watching the Nixad tumble through the air on an errant breeze, correcting itself quickly and darting back into the wreck. "We grew up around here. He'd say it whenever I pressed for answers he couldn't or wouldn't give. Or when he wanted me to leave him alone." Twisting his lute in front of him, he leaned against the cliff face. "Gil had a gift."Pressing in closer, Tsavani rubbed her head against his chest, snuggling as close as she could manage when he reflexively wrapped an arm around her. Instinctively she kept silent, waiting for him to continue."When he told our parents he was working on a book they were ecstatic. They just knew it would be a best seller and propel our family into fame in the art circles."The Nixad was joined by another, more red than teal on this one and he fell silent, watching them chase each other through the wreckage, their flight unmistakable as play. He swallowed hard against the tears, choking on them, burying his face against Tsavani's head."He did not tell them what the book was about. They'd have sought a way to change his mind. They'd have sought to persuade him, and he knew it. When I confronted him..." He sniffled. "He told me to follow the Nixads and hope they'd lead me to a proper spine.""Alec." Tsavani started softly."I do not blame myself. I can't. Not anymore. But every song I wrote after they found out was ordered to be brought before the Censor Board. Every melody no matter if it was meant to be instrumental had to be explained. And I had to watch what became of him.""Did he die in prison?""I wish he had." He answered tightly. "He was a shell. There was no light in that bastard's eyes when they finally let him free. Nothing left. Our parents tried. They sank everything they could into his recovery." He sighed, watching the Nixads helping each other tug at a bit of wood. "Our parents got their wish. Our family gained fame in the art circles.""Your presence in Skyrim makes sense now."He squeezed her shoulders hard, taking a shuddering breath. "Yes." He agreed. "It got me out of the shadow of it." Kissing the top of her head, he pulled away, digging in his pouch and pulling a small jar of honey free. "Gil killed himself. Walked into the ocean. He laughed when I asked him what in Oblivion he was doing. He almost looked like himself again. But he laughed and he turned, and he told me to 'Follow the Nixads' and it would all make sense." "What does that mean?" She asked.He sighed and stared out across the ocean for a moment. "The book that got him imprisoned was a romance novel. A story of a torrid love affair between a Thalmor Justiciar and a Blades Agent. They were convinced it was code and..." He popped the lid on the jar and walked toward the shipwreck, the Nixads pausing to hover in place and watch him approach.Crouching by a piece of driftwood he set the lid down and poured some honey into it. "And?" Tsavani prompted, tail lashing slightly as they watched the Nixads approach the honey cautiously."I think they were right." He rose and stepped back, passing Tsavani the jar of honey, quirking a small smile when she lifted it to her nose and inhaled the sweet scent. "Before I met you, I was inclined to ignore it but..." He pulled his lute around. "Nixads live for centuries if not harmed. I've known these two since I was very young. If you want to follow a Nixad without getting led into danger, you need to give them something.""This one thinks they have a sweet tooth to rival any Khajiit." Tsavani said, eyes bright with curiosity when the two Nixads hovered close to her, making soft buzzing noises when she offered them the honey."They do." Alec agreed. "Honey and music. They'll know I want something and I'm hoping that they still recognize me and will bring me to whatever Gil hid before he died.""Will it still be intact?"He shrugged, strumming on his lute, refraining from humming because of the thickness in his throat, watching the Nixads as they hovered first around Tsavani and then flitting over to hover around his face, the teal one reaching up to touch one of his tears, putting its hand in its mouth, shaking its head and spinning in the air before darting back to Tsavani to get a bit more honey.The red hued bounced in front of his face for a moment then darted down the coast, doubling back when he didn't follow immediately.Sliding his lute back over his shoulder and reaching out to grasp Tsavani's free hand he chased after it, certain he'd find something at the end of the trail. Follow the Nixads.Twice the Nixads had to backtrack to find a path Alec and Tsavani could follow but finally they brought them to a small cave, chittering at each other then darting away. Still grasping Tsavani's hand, Alec pressed inside.It was dusty, a shimmering shield of magic pulsing faintly a few feet in front of them. Clutching Tsavani's hand a bit tighter, he pushed forward, pressing his hand to the shield and watching it shatter. "Your brother's work?" Tsavani asked."Yes."Behind the shield was a rickety desk and a small chest. Kneeling by the chest he opened it, pulling out a heavily waxed piece of paper.
Alec:
I'm sorry. I never wanted you brought into this. I never wanted this to affect our family. I thought I was being clever. I was wrong. The notes I used to write my book are in here. Burn them. Don't let the Thalmor do to you what they did to me.
Follow the Nixads Alec. They always brought you more wisdom than they did me.
-Your loving brother,
Gil
"Will you burn them?" Tsavani asked."No." He looked up at her. "Let's get these back to Skyrim. If they can help your network, then they must be preserved.""My brave bard." Tsavani whispered, resting her hand on his cheek.He quirked a smile. "I'll write him a song once we get home. It's the least I can do."Bundling the books into his pack, he rose, taking Tsavani's hand once again and drawing it up to his lips. "Thank you, my muse. For coming here with me."
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Science Fantasy"And this is where the magic happens." The man's voice rattled strangely through the breathing implement on his face but the cheer in it was clear enough for Fasendil to give him a small nod and a smile.At his signal, the Altmer stepped into the room ahead of him. "Auri-El." He breathed, taking a few more paces again, staring around at the numerous computers and screens, the racks of gold and red machinery. "Jules. This is incredible. And you manage all this on your own?" He demanded, turning to the limping Nord man as he entered the room with Sevan.He snorted. "Gods no. I can't walk fast enough to do that." Moving further inside he paused to rest his hand on a desk and click something on the breathing implement, his breathing audibly ragged. "Always worst in the morning." He waved them forward. "You'll find most people in my line of work do their best thinking at night so daytime is when we have a skeleton crew. My wife grabbed the rest of the team for a coffee meeting. Keeps them from rioting.""Well, that's something." Sevan said. "Maybe you could try it on your agents.""My agents are not rioting." Fasendil responded. "And I don't even know if all of them drink coffee."Jules snorted. "Maybe just moon sugar then. So, this way." He moved along the line of computers while Sevan laughed and Fasendil scowled.Linking hands, the mer followed him, watching him pause every now and then, sometimes to look at a computer screen, other times to adjust his breathing mask, until they reached the far side of the room."This is the section we devote to your project." He said. "Four monitors for now but..." He sighed heavily. "Considering who my brother has decided to move in with, it will probably end up getting personal and then I'll need a few more.""You don't approve?" Sevan asked, leaning closer to the monitors."It's fine. Bout time he found someone who can put up with him. Just wish it was someone who didn't have prior run-ins with Thalmor. At least with him it was just Thorn and he's dead.""I heard about that." Fasendil said, sitting down when Jules gestured at a chair, staring at the list of names, worry eating at him. So much information about my network. And he found it all on his own. How can I trust that others can't do the same?"I'm still tracking down his backers so I can find where they divert the funds. I'll let you know if it looks like it will affect your agents.""I appreciate that." He murmured, looking at the names. "Jules..." He started."How can you know that you can trust me with this information?" He asked, dragging another chair close and sitting down, nodding when Sevan shook his head and rested his hand on Fasendil's shoulder, squeezing gently. "I mean, you can never truly know. And if you know Bishop you've looked into his history. So, you know mine as well." He leaned back. "But. I lived through half of what Thorn put Bishop through. And I've read Thalmor notes. I've read details and I know their goals." His hands flexed and he twisted a knob on his breathing tube again. "To them I would be an abomination worth only dissecting after death. They would go after my wife. Isn't that enough?"Fasendil nodded, reaching up to clasp Sevan's hand. "It's more than enough, Jules. Thank you for indulging my curiosity."He nodded then pointed to one of the monitors. "Now if you'll see here, you'll see the list of everyone who has been directly impacted by your leak. And it is your leak. I've vetted mine again." He examined his nails. "I've only had one traitor in five years. He was easily rooted out. I'll spare you the specifics.""Copper. An Imperial who works with the Companions suggested Mephala.""Copper? Hmm. I don't know much about them. And it's not for lack of trying. The cult they grew up in was thorough about their records.""Maybe we can learn from that." He mused. "What kind of cult was it?""Vaermina.""Never mind." Sevan said quickly, his fingers tightening on Fasendil's shoulder.Jules snorted. "Yes. Good to avoid Daedra or Aedra in this. We have enough problems with mortals and our toys." He patted his breathing machine. "And we've got plenty to study. Now for your leak. I don't think they're aligned with the Thalmor. Not completely.""I'm listening.""You need to find out what they want. If they just wanted your organization to fall, they'd have assassinated or abducted you already.""I'd like to see them try." Sevan hissed, his eyes burning with rage.Jules shrugged. "They tipped the Thalmor off to capture you, but a smaller team more subtly applied would have done better. As is what happened with your "Silver Indrik".""She was on a mission." Fasendil countered.Jules shook his head. "She disappeared before checking in after her mission yes, but it was a success?" He waited for their nod before continuing. "She was waylaid..." He swiveled to the computer, pulling up maps of Cyrodiil, finding one for the city of Anvil and pulling it up before layering security screens from a bar over it."She was on her way to the extraction site." Fasendil murmured. "I knew this already.""But notice. Those aren't any Thalmor agents I'm aware of. Is it possible they've hidden them from me?" He sighed heavily, then coughed, fiddling with his tubes again. "Maybe. It's a little possible. But...""If the Thalmor had been properly tipped off her mission would likely have failed as well. So, it's just as possible there's someone with a grudge against someone in my organization who has no qualms about taking money from the Thalmor. Which means we need to find out who their real target is so we can identify them.""Yes." He agreed. "And let me see." He pulled up a map of their current area, fiddling with camera screens, flitting between forest and mountain views at a dizzying pace. "You're clear to leave."Fasendil rose, shaking Jules' hand when he rose as well. "Thank you. You'll let me know as soon as you know how we can repay you?"He nodded. "Everyone has a price. Some of them are just impossible to pay. I'll let you know where mine falls on the scale once I've discovered it." He waved them toward the row of computers, leading them back out."Who works on my project?" Fasendil asked."A few people." He responded. "It's rare cases that sees anyone focus on one project themselves." He paused by the door and looked up at the Altmer. "Helps keep people as names on the screen.""Instead of people you know." He agreed. "I understand.""I knew you would." Walking outside, Fasendil watched as the heavy bunker doors slid closed, vanishing into the ground.Sevan's horse and Fasendil's borrowed mount jerked at the sound before resuming their grazing. "He's a terrifying man, is Jules." Sevan murmured, tugging on Fasendil's hand."He is. But we both know how to keep him on our side."Sevan nodded, resisting the urge to cast another glance at the door. "Thank Azura for that."
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Literal Hell"So, this is the Soul Cairn." Ancano groaned, pushing himself slowly to his feet and dusting himself off. The air was colder than anything he'd experienced in Skyrim, and he cast a small flame spell reflexively."Ow.""Mati." He turned quickly to find her being offered a hand up by the vampire woman Serana."Are you two alright?" She asked, looking between them, eyeing his fire with furrowed brows."I feel. Strange." Ancano replied, sharing his fire with Mati when she pressed herself to his side."That's not surprising." She said, surveying the dark landscape, then gesturing toward something. "There's light there. A fire, I think. We'll probably have to fight something to clear the way for us, but it would warm you better than just a flame spell. I didn't realize that having parts of your souls tapped would make you colder.""You said we'd be able to sense where the soul gems with our fragments are?" Mati asked, rubbing her arms."It must be cold if you're affected." Serana mused. "And yes. But I suggest you warm up first.""I'm only half-Nord." Mati reminded her, reaching out to clasp Ancano's hand and twine her magic with his, reaching her free hand out to pull some of the fire toward herself, her eyes narrowed with concentration.Pausing, Ancano considered the connection and fed into it with a nod, helping her spin a weak flame cloak around each of them. "Good idea." He murmured. "We'll be alright." He said, looking at Serana. "The weak flame cloak will do more for us than having to find fires along our way.""If you're certain.""We are." He said firmly, glancing down at Mati in time to catch a glimpse of her nod."Alright. Good. Let's find your soul fragments and then do what we came here for." "This place is..." Mati trailed off, tossing a fireball toward a darkly colored skeleton when it advanced toward them, heavy axe raised.Ancano stepped to the side, sparks dancing on his fingertips as he scanned the direction it had come from, arcing lightning out toward a spell casting undead advancing behind two others, Serana adding frost to the mix."Troublesome." Serana muttered. "We need to move faster. If the Ideal Masters realize there are living beings here, they'll react poorly.""Is that why you offered to turn us?" Ancano asked, grabbing Mati's hand as they moved to keep up with the vampire."In part yes.""In part?" He asked."Was the crossing not painful?" She asked."I've had worse." Mati said."I suppose that is fair." She laughed. "You two are certainly tough enough for this.""How were you able to track down this artifact?" Ancano asked, electrifying another skeleton."I have friends who enjoy coming here. I'll never understand it myself, but they claimed to have found traces of it.""It is one of those artifacts that tends to wander." He agreed. "It wouldn't surprise me if some necromancer found it and tried to use it as some sort of bargaining piece.""That is possible." Serana agreed. "And the Ideal Masters would have laughed at the notion.""What are those crystals?" Mati asked, pointing toward a glowing pink crystal in the distance.In response, Serana grabbed both of them, yanking them behind a crumbling wall. "Duck down. We need to wait for the light from it to fade." She looked at her hands. "How did you do that?""Do what?" Ancano wondered, rubbing his thumb gently over Mati's hand."Flame cloaks that don't burn on contact." She clarified, turning her hands over and studying the back."It's too weak to do any damage." Mati responded. "It's only for warming us up so I stripped any offensive capabilities from it.""No wonder you two were recommended for this venture." She said quietly. "Stay here. I'll watch the crystal. The Ideal Masters don't care if vampires come here." She shook her head. "Unless they're carrying Elder Scrolls.""Are you alright?" Ancano asked, pulling Mati against him."Our lives are certainly more exciting since we started doing this." She said, giving him a wry smile."At least it's not raining.""Well, not right here it isn't." She agreed, pointing to a swirl of storm clouds in the distance that seemed to be spitting out constant lightning. Leaning her head against his chest, she sighed. "Can you feel your fragment? I'm beginning to sense mine, I think. It's a little tug."He closed his eyes, trying to mentally probe at the slight ache in his chest, breathing deeply as he meditated on it. "Some. Yes." He said. "Let's hope they are close to each other." "I'm almost jealous of how comfortable you two look."Looking up at the sound of Serana's voice, Ancano shrugged. "You get used to finding ways to be comfortable in odd locations. Are we free to move on?""Yes. But let's move as swiftly as we can. Any chance either of you has traced your soul fragment?""We can both feel the tug." Ancano said. "They're in the same general direction but we'll see how they diverge as we get closer.""That's good." She said, watching them rise. "So which way?""You first." Ancano murmured, smiling when Mati nodded, and her clairvoyance spell spun out to give their direction. "I admit I am surprised that they were so close to each other." Serana said, watching Ancano tuck the soul gem that held his soul fragment into his pocket. "I did some more scouting when we ducked the second master and... she pointed to a half crumbled building. "It's in there. And there's a vampire lord in there who I don't recognize. So...""Be ready for a fight." Ancano finished."I suggest making that fire cloak of yours offensive now.""Anything else in there?" Mati asked."He has a couple of wrathmen to guard him. If either of you have a strong enough Turn Undead spell it should at least redirect those. But we'll need to move fast. As soon as Restoration magic is sensed, the Ideal Masters will know you're here.""Noted." "Visitors? Mortal visitors? And Valerica's get. Is this a social call?" A whip thin Khajiit with hungry red eyes leapt on top of the wall, staring down at them, his tail lashing. "This one thinks no." He hissed, fangs shining in the strange light of the realm. "You want Khajiit's treasure. But it is mine!" With an inarticulate scream he launched himself off the wall, changing form as he fell into the hulking being that was a vampire lord, patches of fur running along his wings.Ancano took a half step back, releasing Mati's hand as both mages called their flame cloak into fierce life to defend against the two draugr like creatures that charged them while Serana summoned a gargoyle and a blade, dashing forward to intercept the vampire lord.Practice had Ancano and Mati moving in tandem, the Mer bringing up a shimmering ward to defend against a blast of ice from the first of the wrathmen, Mati ducking beneath it to throw a firebolt with deadly accuracy before turning her attention to the second.With a crack of conjuration Ancano had a sword in one hand, slashing down to be sure of the first wrathman, twisting to use his superior height to guard Mati against an attack by the second, his lover pouring the energy from her flame cloak into a stronger firebolt, burning the creature to ash.A scream of rage brought their attention to the vampire lord in time to see him crush Serana's gargoyle, one wing hanging limply, half torn off. He screamed again and Serana laughed, summoning another gargoyle as Ancano and Mati dashed in from the side, a new flame cloak surrounding Mati.The slight shimmer of magic warned Ancano just before Mati's first spell was reflected back and he called a ward spell in front of the both of them. With a low cry, Serana and her new gargoyle came up behind him, the gargoyle grabbing his good wing while Serana drove her shimmering blade into his chest."He was wearing it." Ancano said, releasing his shield when he was certain the vampire was dead, turning to check on Mati, smiling to find her doing the same for him. "I'm alright.""As am I." She responded, nodding toward Serana.The vampire held her hand out, fist closed, dropping the Warlock's Ring into Mati's upturned palm. "Syrabane's Ring." Serana said. "How long do you think you'll be able to hold onto it?""No one ever knows." Mati responded, offering it to Ancano. "But perhaps it will last longer if carried by an Altmer.""Perhaps." Ancano agreed, studying the emerald in the strange light of the Soul Cairn. "Now. How do we leave?"Serana smiled. "I was waiting for you to ask."Winterhold"The ring is in Fasendil's hands." Ancano announced, stepping into the private bathroom attached to his quarters, pausing to lean against the door and watch Mati brush out her long hair. "Keep growing it and it'll match your sister's soon.""I have enough trouble with it at this length." She countered, twisting it up into a ponytail, smiling up at him. "Did Fasendil ask you about the trip?""He did and gave me the opportunity to expound on it. I elected not to.""Probably for the best. He does tend to worry when things turn out more dangerous than expected.""He does. Does it bother you?""Hmm?""That I was so quick to dispose of the artifact?"Moving away from the sink she reached up and snagged his hand, tugging him toward the bedroom. "No. I learned my lesson after dealing with the Eye. And I'd rather not have anything to remind me of that place.""It relieves me to hear you say that.""The only old masters at this college are the ones who've mastered the ability to rein in their curiosity." She said, grinning up at him.He laughed, sweeping her into his arms. "That is true.""Did he say when our next mission would be?""Mm. He ordered two months break. I was thinking we could go book hunting for Urag? May be less dangerous."Reaching up, she turned his face and gave him a gentle kiss. "Somehow I doubt it." She jerked her head toward the bed. "Planning to stay in for a while?"Tightening his grip slightly he moved toward the bed. "Yes."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Coffee Shop"Welcome!"Estormo looked up with a small nod to the blond Imperial man standing cheerfully behind the counter before scanning the coffee shop quickly. Not here. Swallowing against the sharp bite of worry he approached the counter."What can I get for you?""Can I take a minute?" He asked."Of course! Let me know if you have any questions about the menu.""I will." He promised, looking at the various treats on display. "Who's the baker?" He asked, eying the lemon tarts and snowberry muffins."That would be me." He chirped. "I do most of the baking. We do have someone in the afternoon but well..." He laughed. "You know.""It's morning." Estormo agreed. "I'm surprised you aren't busier.""Give it a couple hours and we'll get the lunch crowd.""A lemon tart and a triple shot mocha with honey." He asked, passing over the septims with a small nod."Got it." Humming under his breath the Imperial went to work, his cheer almost enough to chip Estormo's gloom.
Maybe I should've tried to convince her to stay in Riften. But when I spoke with her, she seemed desperate to go somewhere outside.
Accepting the coffee and pastry he moved to sit at a corner table where he could watch the door. Frowning at it, he leaned back slightly in his chair and lifted his mocha.Sipping at the coffee, he stared at the door. She's only a few minutes late. I'm sure it's fine. It's fine. I know it's fine. It's just a few minutes. He tapped his fingers against his leg. But what if she's hurt? Was she coming by train? Was she riding? Was someone with her? Why didn't I ask? I should have escorted her. What if she's in trouble? What if it's my fault?His internal monologue gained strength the longer he sat, his fingers rapidly tapping out a fifth message on his phone. She's in trouble. She must be. Somewhere between Whiterun and Riften. This was a bad idea. I'm so selfish! What was I thinking? What is wrong with me? She's going to die and it's going to be my fault! The door opened and he stiffened, straightening in his seat, slumping back when a Redguard man entered, the easy way he moved and the insignia on his jacket giving him away as a Companion. He glanced his way, golden eyes taking him in quickly and gave him a slight nod before heading toward the counter.He recognizes me but he's not coming over which means if Virwen is hurt the Companions don't know about it. That's a good thing. Right? It means she's just delayed. Maybe there was a rock slide. Or the train got delayed. Or there's no cell signal. He tapped out another message, watching the Companion greet the man behind the counter with a kiss and took another long pull of the drink. She's late. She's never late. She's not supposed to be late. If she's late, then something is wrong. But I don't know what or how. It was supposed to be safer that way. My not knowing her route. But she's not here. What if she never shows up? What if she's angry with me? Maybe she's safe and just doesn't want to see me? I can handle that. I'd be able to handle that. But if... I'll never... Taking another sip he paused, pulling the cup away and shaking it. Huh. Rising, he moved toward the counter, rocking from heel to toe and back while he waited until the Companion had finally stopped flirting with the barista enough to step to the side.The Imperial's eyebrows rose high when he ordered the exact same drink as before and he gave the Companion a wide eyed look. What? It's fine. Everything's fine. It's normal. All good. I should go. I should look. I should call Fasendil. Yes! I should..."Waiting for someone?" The Companion asked accepting his drink from the blond."That obvious?" He asked, quickly shoving his hands in his pockets when he realized he'd been fiddling with his shirt hem."Yeah." He said, reaching his free hand out slowly. "Nevian. You recognized the insignia, but we haven't been introduced."He nodded, accepting the hand and shaking. "Heard of you. Which means. Your fiancé, Lucien. Right. Makes sense. Makes good coffee. Estormo.""I've heard of you." Nevian said gently. "You're worried.""Late." He said briskly, accepting the mocha from Lucien and downing a good swig of it. "She's late. And if she gets hurt it's my fault. I suggested Whiterun and she's late and..." He drained more, scowling when Nevian reached up and pulled the cup away."Breathe." He ordered. "How late?"I don't even. That's a good... Yanking his phone out of his pocket he opened it, scrolling text messages, looking at the time, feeling blood drain. "Hour. Hour late. Auri-El what have I...""Go sit. Without the coffee. I'll contact the other Companions and we'll figure this out." He paused while pulling a phone out of his pocket, then looked past him when the door jingled. "From your lips to your Divine's ears."Estormo whirled, stumbled, staring and taking a deep gasping breath. She's alive. She's... thank Auri-El. She's alive! Virwen.The woman in question stood in the doorway flanked by two Bosmer, one in a long hooded trench coat despite the sunny day, or perhaps, as the faint glow of his eyes suggested, because of the sunny day, and the other dark haired, antlered and dressed far more appropriately for the weather. "Virwen." Estormo whispered, heart hammering hard in his chest.Shaking her head, Virwen crossed the tile floor toward him, and he staggered forward into a run to pull her into a crushing hug."I'm sorry I'm late." She murmured, her voice muffled against his shoulder. "Ran into some trouble. Lost my phone."Closing his eyes, he held her tight, muttering prayers to Auri-El, trying to get his heart rate under control. She's here. She's alive. She's here. She's safe. After several long moments, he pushed back slightly. "Are you hurt? What happened?""I am alright. I promise." She said, working her right arm up to show him a tear in her long-sleeved shirt, a tear edged with red. "Healed already. Fenn." She jerked her head toward a shadowy corner of the Coffee House where the hooded man sat, his hood pushed back to reveal antlers nestled in curly brown hair. "Is a healer. His boyfriend is my neighbor in Riften.""They traveled with you." He supplied, flushing when he realized he hadn't let go of her waist. Thank Auri-El. She's safe. "They did. I don't know who ambushed us. Between my girl and Alvelor's Velvet, they had no chance past their first shot. And as I said, Fenn healed me immediately after."He forced a long sigh out and pulled her into another hard embrace. "Then I owe them." He whispered."Estormo." She said softly. "I am alright.""I should have traveled with you.""You know why you didn't. It was for a good reason." She said, reaching up to run her fingers gently along the piercings in his left ear. "Alright?"Nevian cleared his throat pointedly and they reluctantly pulled apart. "I've spoken to Aela, and she was able to pick up a trail. I'll let you know what we find out.""Thank you." Virwen said."Don't let him drink any more coffee." He suggested, grinning when Estormo scowled before turning toward the counter. "I'll be back when you get off work.""I'll wait for you." Lucien said brightly, passing a small tray of tea and pastries to the Bosmer at the counter."Did you want to stay here?" Virwen asked. "Or did you want to go somewhere else?""I haven't. I bought a pastry.""Oh? What kind?""Lemon tart." He managed, taking another steadying breath, feeling his heart rate finally coming under control. I could have gotten you killed. Auri-El I am a damn fool."That sounds good. Let me just order myself a drink. Did you want something besides coffee?""Virwen."Gently she rested her palms on either side of his face. "Estormo. I am fine. I promise." Looking past him, she nodded to Lucien. "Could we get that pastry boxed up? And I'll order that coffee to go.""Did you want me to call someone to walk you two to your destination?""That would be lovely.""Alright! It shouldn't take long. I'll just call Nev, and he'll send Farkas or Vilkas over.""Thank you." She said, pulling gently away from Estormo. "Come on. Let's figure out something for me to drink."Taking as big a breath as he could manage, he nodded. "Yes. Alright." Feeling strangely weak he walked with Virwen over to the counter, frowning when Lucien slid him a small paper. "What is this?""It's someone who can help." He said quietly. "Nevian and I have both been to them a few times. They're sworn to secrecy.""Help with what?""You'll understand when you look them up."Frowning, he lifted the card.
Eight Divines Counseling Services: Whiterun Branch
Secular Counseling. All are welcome.
Frowning, he flipped it over to see a list of names and numbers. "What is this?""Just look them up." He insisted, passing Virwen her coffee and the boxed lemon tart. "Ah, Farkas is here." He said, nodding toward the door. "He'll get you to your destination safely. I hope next time you can have a more relaxing visit. We do live music every Tirdas now!"Tucking the card into his pocket he took another steadying breath, taking his pastry from Virwen and offering her his hand, relieved when she took it. She doesn't hate me. "I hope so." He responded. "Thank you.""Just make sure you call them, or I'll be making a phone call to Winterhold." He said, giving him a sweet smile when he stared at him. "I am on very good terms with my future in-laws.""I'll keep that in mind." He agreed, putting names to faces rapidly. Nevian. Ancano's lover has a half-brother named Nevian. Which means Lucien knows Mati and through Mati... Could follow through with that threat.Squeezing Virwen's hand he walked with her to the door, giving Lucien one last look over his shoulder. He's a good example of looks being deceiving. I'll have to remember that."I was worried you'd hate me." Estormo murmured, pulling Virwen against him, rubbing her back gently."No. Of course not." She said, shifting a little closer. "I'm glad you're alright."He snorted. "You were the one in danger.""Did you know I sleep with the lights on?" She asked, lifting herself up so she could look down at him. "Every night I do a walkthrough of my apartment and I turn on every light except the bedroom.""Virwen...""I used to swim nearly every day. No matter how cold it was. Now I walk as far from the water's edge as possible." She sighed. "You've accepted that I've got scars. Now it's time for you to accept your own. And I can only do so much to help without jeopardizing my own psyche.""Do you talk to someone? A counselor?""Yes. Fasendil insisted on it. So, I see one every seven days.""And has it... helped?""Some. It's early yet but some."Working the card out of his pocket he studied it. "I'll think about it.""Good." With a low sigh, she rested her arms against his chest. "Let me know when you need to leave, and I'll move.""I'll be sure to." He agreed, setting the card to the side and bringing both arms around her. But I'm in no rush.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
"Space" AcademyMzulft was bustling. Construction crews darting across the construction site under the watchful eye of a cheerful Imperial Scholar slash Coffee House owner."This one is surprised by how much advancement has been made already." Tsavani said, ladling a measure of soup into the bowl of the observer in front of her."I know what you mean." Alec agreed, bringing the bowl up to his face and breathing in the steam. "It smells wonderful Tsavani." He complimented."Take your honeyed words away so I can focus." She ordered, her whiskers twitching with embarrassment."Your wish is my command my muse." He said brightly, giving the construction crew lining up for their break a friendly nod and heading for the bluff where Lucien stood with his clipboard."Have you eaten yet?" He asked when Lucien turned to look at him."There's too much to do to take time to eat!" He protested. "I've got four contractors coming in an hour. I've got three construction workers out sick with bone break fever of all things!" He sighed at Alec's questioning look. "There was a bear that just wouldn't be dissuaded. But instead of letting me ask my fiancé for help those three decided they could take it on themselves. They're lucky they didn't lose any limbs.""Did they kill the bear?"He scoffed. "No. I summoned an ice Atronach to deal with it.""Here. Tsavani made this." He said, shoving the soup bowl into Lucien's hands before pulling out a notebook and pen. "Now. Tell me everything about what this place is going to be between bites.""Alec.""Lucien. You want publicity, don't you?"He scowled then looked at the construction site for a long moment. "Alright fine.""So. You're building an...""Orrery. I'm trying to connect it to the Dwemer Oculory. If you see there, that sectioned off pile of glass-like material? Shards of Aetherium. It's incredibly expensive and beyond incredible that we were able to procure so much. But my advisor was insistent that we needed as much as possible.""Shards of Aetherium?" Alec asked, letting out a low whistle. "Your ceiling is going to be made of stardust?""I mean not really. That's not what..." He trailed off and scowled at Alec. "And that's what you're writing down isn't it?""It's more romantic this way.""You know you're not the only Bard I know." He said waspishly, taking a small sip of the broth."Yes, but if you ask Silka then who would watch your Coffee Shop?" He countered, giving him as winsome a smile as he could manage. "And besides. I know how to write it so it'll sell in Cyrodiil. Silka's music is fine but it's more... rustic.""Fine you can call it stardust." He groaned."And what's the name that you're giving this place?""It already has a name.""Let me rephrase Lucien. What name are you going to give it that is enticing for non-scholars?" He questioned. "I'm good but even I cannot turn Mzulft or Oculory or Orrery into something that will sell. You're going to need wealthy supporters Lucien.""It's going to be a place of learning Alec." He protested. "We're hoping to tap into some of the same research that the fabled Sun Birds of Alinor tapped into. Could you imagine? Traveling to Aetherius!"He hmm'd, turning to look down at the construction site. "Travel to Aetherius? So, you're going to need a name that reflects that." He mused, tapping his pen against his chin. "Ah. How is this? The Aetherium Academy.""I..." He frowned finishing off the soup and setting the bowl on a stack of similar dishes. "I suppose it would tie into something people understand.""Listen. I know exactly how to go about it." Alec said, warming to the topic, scribbling a few ideas down. "Travel among the stars. Follow in the footsteps of the fabled Sun Birds of Lore.""It will take years before we even know if we'll be able to..." Lucien started, falling silent when Alec waved his hand at him."Start circulating some of the old songs and stories about the Sun Birds and even the Thalmor can't claim this is blasphemous." He said briskly. "Give me two months and I'll have preliminary advertisements, grant requests and art ready for your approval.""Two months?"He nodded. "I'm not just good Lucien. I'm the best." He stared down at the construction site, possibilities sparking in his head. "I'll need to go down to the Oculory and get some sketches and then I'll head to the Imperial City and get sketches of the Orrery there." He moved toward Lucien's tent. "Or I can just look at the blueprints.""I don't want it to look exactly like the Blueprints." Lucien protested. "There need to be some room for changes.""Oh of course. It's going to be art Lucien." He reached out and clasped the younger man's shoulder. "Trust me Lucien. You'll have no shortage of curious students and backers when I'm done."Lucien sighed heavily, looking between the Blueprints and the worksite. "Consider yourself hired." He said, reaching his hand out and shaking Alec's firmly."You won't regret it." He promised, sitting in a chair at the desk, opening to a blank page in his notebook and getting to work.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Twisted Fairy TaleIllusion. That terrible branch of magic. That purview of assassins and bards. Sevan hated it more than anything he'd hated in his life thus far. "Fasendil." He whispered, his voice thick with pain. "Fasendil. My love. I'm right here. I'll never leave you.""You should." Fasendil said coolly, lifting a book off his side table and flipping it open. "In fact. You should leave now.""Fasendil." Swallowing hard, Sevan took as deep a breath as he could manage and sat behind him on the bed."I said you could go." He said, his tone still cool."And leave you behind?" He asked, very slowly, very cautiously, wrapping his arms around the taller mer, leaning his head between his shoulder blades."What purpose does this serve?""Some spells hold on longer than they should." He whispered. "Azura bless it Fasendil. I will not leave you.""A spell? Fell an Altmer?" He snorted. "It is not a spell."Sevan managed a shuddering breath. "Then you are a better liar than Mephala herself.""Mephala. Why do I know that name?"Closing his eyes, Sevan tightened. "She is the Daedric Prince of lies." He whispered. "One of the ancestors of the Dunmer.""How fascinating.""It is." He agreed, relieved that he wasn't pulling away from him."I believe this book is about her." He sighed. "What was your name again?"Tears escaped and he swallowed hard. "Sevan.""Now where have I heard that name before? And you are a Dunmer correct? Do you worship this Mephala?""I respect her.""Interesting." He sighed. "It is too dark to read. You can let go at any time Sevan.""No." He whispered."It really is quite pathetic how you cling to me when I have no clue who you are."Damn the mage. Damn them to Oblivion. Fasendil sighed heavily, reaching for Sevan's wrist then paused. "I really think you should let go now. This display is pathetic, Dark Elf.""I'm alright with that.""I dare say you must be the most annoying Mer in history." He grumbled, reaching a hand toward Sevan's wrist again, frowning down at it when he grasped it. "What is this band you're wearing? On your ring finger?""You tell me. You put it there.""Pah I would..." He trailed off, lifting his hand, Sevan stiffening to maintain his hold. "Sevan?""Yes love?" He whispered."Do you mind telling me what is going on?"With a strangled sob, Sevan tightened his grip momentarily then shifted his weight, pulling the taller Mer down into his lap, relieved to see no signs of red in Fasendil's eyes. "Someone cast a fury spell as we entered the grounds." He whispered. "They are being pursued.""Fury? Did I harm you?"He swallowed. "Not physically.""Not physically?" His eyes widened. "Then, Sevan. My love. What did I say?"He shook his head. "I’ll tell you later.” He said, voice rough with relief and unshed tears. "You're free of it now." He brushed his tears away. "That's all that matters."Fasendil frowned, reaching up to rest a palm on Sevan's cheek. "When this is over, I'm buying you a manor by the sea. We'll fill it with books and a luxury bathing room and never have to see snow again.""With enough guest rooms to host all your agents." He whispered. "I'll hold you to it."
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Candyman "Ah, how sweet. The couple that dreams together stays together, right?" A thin Nord said, sneering at Ancano from his chair as the High Elf approached with Mati, his hand resting lightly on her lower back."Careful, our boss isn't particularly keen about High Elves." His Redguard companion said, snickering at the concerned glance they exchanged. "I'm just yanking your chain. Your septims will spend just as well as any other. Head on inside. What you're looking for is in there."What has Serana gotten us into? Ancano wondered, pressing forward anyway."Over here." The Nord said, rising, moving around the side of a half-collapsed wall.With a shared nod, they followed, Mati moving first to climb down the ladder from the trap door, Ancano dropping quickly after her, hearing a soft scoff from the lookout as he closed the door."So, it's in here." Ancano whispered."Seems like it." Mati agreed, clasping his hand with slightly clammy fingers."Let me do the talking." He suggested.She shook her head. "If the doorman is telling the truth, then the 'boss' isn't keen on High Elves. Maybe he's a Talos worshiper?""Ah, my Breton." He said gently, brushing his thumb over her cheek. "Considering what Serana told us about this place? They were talking about blood preference."She grimaced. "Alright. Let's just get this over with."Moving down the hallway they found the door at the end quickly, a Nord man standing next to a locked door. "Feeling a bit nervous, eh?" He grinned. "Just keep your weapons to yourselves and you'll not have any problems.""Of course." Mati said quietly."Then head on in." He said, unlocking the door and pushing it open. "Behave yourselves." He ordered, waving them through.Ancano's hand tightened on Mati's as they moved through the door, his eyes taking in the rooms and Wood Elf woman standing behind bars. She smiled at them and waved them toward her."Ah, welcome, welcome! I don't believe we've seen you here before, have we? You can buy from me, then join any booth you'd like.""How potent are we talking?" Ancano asked coldly. "I've had nothing in Skyrim to compare to Balmora Blue and even that pales in comparison to some I've had back home.""That's quite a feat. Having better than Balmora. But I am certain you'll enjoy what we make here. Our Redwater Spring elevates it to a level you could scarce dream of." She smiled. "In fact, since it's your first time." She waved them closer. "I'll let you buy one get one." She winked. "I'm certain you won't regret it.""You have a deal." He said, his tone still cold as he passed the septims over, Mati taking the two small bottles with slightly trembling hands."That booth is empty." She said cheerfully, waving them toward one at the back of the room. Stepping into the small room, Ancano sat on the floor, resting his chin on his hand, leaning forward slightly with a bottle in his hand so when Mati sat down next to him and pulled her phone out, he was shielding her from view."Okay. Serana says we can dump them on the floor and use a sleep spell to emulate what reports say it does." She whispered."Dump it on the floor? The fumes will still cause us trouble." Ancano muttered, spinning the bottle in his fingers when the tiniest click caught his attention and he swiftly snatched Mati's phone and slid it into a pocket as the back of the booth was pulled away.As four hooded people entered, the doorman from before pushed in from the front, a heavy baton in his hand."I said no trouble." He said, lunging toward Ancano, baton raised, the others coming forward at the same time. "How troublesome." A reedy voice hissed."What is it sir?" A woman answered."They're dripping in traceable devices but all of them have some sort of code. We'll have to keep them away from the fumes until we can get one or both to break and tell us what it is."Waking slowly, his head aching, Ancano opened his eyes. Mati. He scanned the cell as best he could, rolling onto his side with a quiet groan, spotting her in the cell next to him, curled into a small ball, blood staining the back of her shirt."They're waking up sir." The woman said. "Did you want to speak to them now?""Not yet. Let them understand the full gravity of the situation first."
What's there to understand?
"What's there to understand?" A familiar voice asked, echoing his thoughts. "Who are you?" The reedy voice snapped."You should be asking, 'who are we?'" A husky male voice responded, followed immediately by the wet grinding sounds that Ancano associated with a werewolf transformation."How flammable is your Skooma operation?"Ancano forced himself into a sitting position, unsurprised to see the mage Copper asking that question, flanked by two dark furred werewolves, their cousin, Vitene, standing a few feet away, a glowing mace in her hand."Copper asking the important questions." Serana drawled, Ancano looking up to see she was perched on his prison. "Now see, the fun part is, if you hadn't dragged these two in here, we wouldn't have come in this strong. But patience has never been your strong suit has it Venarus?""Are you saying you wouldn't be threatening my life and my operation if I had left them alone?" He scoffed. "I don't believe you.""You misunderstood me Venarus." She said, smiling. "We would not have come in this strong. It would have been subtle. Perhaps a cave collapse.""The Bloodspring is a gift from Molag Bal to his vampires! And you would just bury it!?""Yes."A soft laugh drew Ancano's attention to where Mati was slowly pushing herself into a sitting position. Reaching out through the bars, he caught her hand, squeezing it gently, breathing a little easier when she squeezed back.At least Serana had a contingency plan. He thought, watching the werewolves and mages descend on the vampires and their thralls, Serana only moving to intercept any that came toward the cages, and he gave her a grateful look, certain she knew they were too disoriented and low on magic to defend themselves. Finally, the last of them fell and Vitene was unlocking his cell, Copper unlocking Mati's. He slowly pushed himself upright, staggering back when Mati crashed into him, returning her embrace, holding her close. The questions of what could have happened have not started yet. They will but… He looked down at his Lover. We’ll work through it together once it does."I am sorry." Serana said, moving to stand next to them. "I thought they'd be more subtle about everything.""We're just glad you had a backup plan." Mati said, giving her a weak smile. "I'd say we've more than repaid you for getting us to and from the Soul Cairn."The vampire grinned. "I'd say so. Hopefully if we work again in the future, it won’t be so…” She wrinkled her nose. “Fraught. Go on, Vilkas and Copper can go with you back to Riften, get you checked for any diseases. Farkas, Vitene and I will finish up here." Ancano nodded, breathing a small sigh of relief when Vitene cast a healing spell on first Mati and then him, the headache dulling into a more manageable ache.“That went worse than expected.” Mati murmured as they walked. “But also, much faster.”“Agreed.”“And our debt with Serana is settled.” She continued, the pair watching Vilkas kick a barred door down, Copper slipping out first, flames flickering around their hands.A few seconds later the werewolf waved them through and Ancano breathed deeply of the clear Rift air. “I much prefer the scholar’s life.” He remarked, smiling down at Mati.“It tends to be safer.” She agreed. “Even when we’re looking through old ruins for Urag’s books!”He laughed, tugging gently on her hand. “Even then. Come, let’s get to Riften and get cleared by the Priests so we can go home.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Fresh Start"Feel free to sit wherever you'll be most comfortable." Jenssen said evenly before settling down in an armchair, a notebook and pen resting on a side table with a lamp and little else.Nervously, Estormo scanned the room, noting there was a window seat as well as a hard backed chair and another armchair the duplicate of Jenssen's."There are cushions as well if you prefer the floor.""No, that's alright. Thank you." Crossing to the window seat he sat gingerly, not pulling his legs up on it just yet."You may speak as freely as you'd like here." He said easily. "Everything is spelled against eavesdropping, and we are charmed so if we are pushed to reveal secrets of our clients, we will lose the memories permanently.""A rather powerful spell." Estormo noted, swiveling slightly in the seat and drawing his leg up."We did speak over the phone. You said you wished to speak with someone about panic attacks?"He frowned, watching him for a long moment, looking for flickers of judgement, wishing he was as good at reading Human body language as he was at reading other Mer. "Yes. They're rather embarrassing I'd say.""They're a normal response to trauma." He countered. "Was there a particular event you wished to speak to me about.""I'm sure you heard about the coffee house." He said bitterly. "Lucien was quite insistent I speak to someone in your organization about it.""Lucien is a circumspect individual. Neither he nor his fiancé informed me of anything regarding your situation beyond telling me that they'd referred you to our office."Grumbling under his breath, he shoved his back against the wall and stared out the window for a moment. "I was supposed to meet up with someone at Lucien's Coffee House. She is in a rather dangerous line of work so when she was late I..." He trailed off, picking at his shirt hem, trying not to relive those awful moments, reminding himself that Virwen was safely in Riften. I walked into her apartment with her. She is as safe as she can be. "I kept thinking about what could have happened. And how it could have been my fault." He admitted. Why do I want to talk about it? He looked over at the Nord, noting that while he seemed to have written something in his notebook, he was still watching him, his face still seemingly free of judgement. "What are you writing?""Notes. They're in a shorthand I invented. It would not do to rely on my memory alone with each of my clients. I would inevitably get facts wrong which is unacceptable in my line of work.""You don't keep them on a computer?""Some I transfer over, but we try to keep as much in physical files as possible. Easier to set protective spells over them. Technology is a funny thing. Doesn't always mix well with magic.""I suppose you believe I should feel relieved that you're being so careful?""You're allowed to feel however you wish to about it." He said evenly, resting the notebook in his lap. "Why did you feel it would be your fault if the person you were meeting ran into trouble?""Because I'm the one who invited her out.""Is she an adult?""Yes.""And you say she's in a dangerous line of work?""Exceedingly.""Does she understand that?"He sighed. "Better than anyone I know.""Did you try to reassure yourself of that fact when you began to worry about her?""No.""Sometimes when we spiral in our thoughts, the best thing we can do is not to shy away from them but to ask yourself what all the potential outcomes could be.""She could have died. I was convinced that..." He hesitated. "I was convinced she was going to get hurt or killed and it would be my fault.""So, you did not entertain the idea that she might be able to resist any trouble?"He frowned, leaning his head back. "No.""I'll be honest with you Estormo. It may take a very long time to train yourself how to pick apart or change these kinds of thoughts.""My work can't wait forever." He said."Perhaps not." He sighed. "I'm not asking you to put your life on hold. Merely warning you of the length of the road ahead.""Are you sure there's not spell to make it all go away?" He asked, giving him a wry smile."Of course there is." He said gravely. "But the price is steep.""What is it?""Completely removing your memories. Permanently.""Which memories?" He asked, shying away from a handful automatically.Jenssen gave him a level look. "All of them.""Are you sure?""I am.""Has anyone ever taken that route?" He wondered, thinking of Virwen and the few times he'd managed to make her smile genuinely. I am not giving those memories up. Not now. Not ever."A few times." He said. "Their circumstances were bleak.""So, what do I need to do to fix myself?"Setting his notebook to the side, Jenssen pressed his hands together and observed Estormo. "The first thing we need to do is start digging.""Digging for what?""The root of your fear." "How did it go?" Virwen sounded slightly out of breath and Estormo wondered at that for a moment while he leaned against the wall of the therapy office."I feel a bit stretched. More tired than I expected.""I think that's normal." She said. "I certainly feel the same way after a session.""You sound out of breath."She laughed. "Yes. Bishop and Rheanna wanted to get out of the city. Asked me if I wanted to come with them. Bishop's horse is due a farrier visit so we're on foot. These two can set quite a brisk pace.""I never understood the point of hiking." He admitted. "I spend too much time in the wilderness for my line of work to do it for pleasure.""So, don't ask you out for a hike. Got it.""Well, if you're going to be there..." He trailed off when she laughed, sobering after a moment. "I don't know how much this will help. Doing this therapy thing.""But if it does?" She countered."Then I'll owe Lucien a thank you." Staring up at the sky, he considered the clouds. "There's no such thing as a fresh start. Not for this.""I'd say that depends on your outlook. But you're the only one who can figure it out. I think you owe it to yourself to find out.""Maybe." He agreed, thinking over his session."Give it time.""Alright. I'll do my best. Can I see you next weekend?""Do you want to come to me? Or do you want me to go to you?""I'll go to you." He said. I'm not ready for a potential repeat. Not yet."Just let me know when." "I will. It's about to rain here so I should let you go.""Text me later?""Okay." Sighing deeply, Estormo looked down at his phone. Strange how she could have bailed that day but didn't. Straightening away from the wall, he walked away from the clinic. Maybe she sees something in me that I don't anymore. And wouldn't it be worth it to find out?
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Food Truck"This one was hoping that you would show up." Tsavani said brightly, passing a wrapped Beef Pasty to the High Elf in front of her."It would have been rude of me not to." Fasendil responded, accepting the pasty from her hands with a small smile."Pshht. Rude nothing." She countered. "You have given me much.""So, you're doing well?" He asked, unwrapping the pasty and smelling deeply. "It smells wonderful Tsavani.""Alec helped me to fix the recipe to perfection.""Are you certain he wasn't just trying to get you to cook for him more?" He asked, grinning at her.She snorted. "Of course he was. But this one is happy to cook for her mate if it makes him happy.""So, you're official then?" He asked, leaning against her food stand, taking a bite of the pastry, noting that while it was certainly sweeter than what he'd find at a Nord stand, it had none of the aftertaste he associated with moon sugar. "What are you using for sweetener?""Alec suggested that honey should be used exclusively for the products made for Man and Mer." She shrugged. "It has made it easier to pass my inspections. They are satisfied by the measures taken to ensure that no contamination occurs between food stuffs.""I'm glad to hear it." He said easily. "And you've certainly got the recipes down.""This one is hoping that you will still accept any information that may be gleaned from gossip.""Of course." He responded. "I wouldn't have it any other way.""It pleases me to hear you say that." She leaned on the counter. "As much as this was needed. I know there is much work left to be done.""There is." He agreed. "And it could take well past your life time to conclude it. You shouldn't feel obligated to spend all of your life devoted to the fight."Her tail lashed. "Perhaps that is how you see it. But this one does not feel the same.""I apologize.""You needn't. It is in your nature." With a slight nod she wrapped up another pastry. "Give this one to your Sevan and tell him that Tsavani said he needs to come round himself someday.""I'll be sure to pass the message along." He promised, dropping a chunk of septims in her tip jar in lieu of the payment he knew she'd refuse."May your road lead you to warm sands."He nodded politely, walking away, the Khajiit watching him until he was out of sight before sweeping the septims into the jar she kept for charitable donations. She reflected on his habit of over-tipping as she rolled out some more pastry, measuring it to her exact specifications. Perhaps he does not understand just how much he has already given me by helping me navigate permits and inspections. And perhaps that is his way of saying he feels I have repaid my debt. Since we cannot agree on that matter... She paused, pressing down on the rolling pin a little harder before resuming. Well, there's nothing for it but to continue as we are. No reason to create conflict where there is none.
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Hanahaki Disease"Have you found anything?" Fasendil asked softly, sitting by Sevan, staring down at the agent in the hospital bed."Not much." He responded, "The only one that fits is a truly fantastical disease.""Let's hear it.""It's called Hanahaki disease. The sufferer coughs up flowers until they eventually turn into one." He nodded toward the sedative drip. "Unless sedated."Fasendil frowned, looking down at the Altmer woman. "Is there a cure?""One that is just as awful as the disease." He responded."What is it?""Hanahaki disease is caused by falling ill of unrequited love.""Say that again?""Hanahaki is caused by falling ill of unrequited love."So, I heard him right the first time. "So, what's the cure?""The object of their affection needs to love them back. But that is quite impossible.""Why is that?"The Dunmer scowled. "Because the person she claims to be in love with. Is you.""I see." He moved toward the wall. "So, she will continue to cough up flowers until she dies... unless I, a man who has no romantic attraction to women, somehow falls in love with her? It has to be Daedric. Sheogorath or..." He froze, hands shaking. "Sevan.""What is it?""Mephala. Sheogorath or Mephala.""I would more guess Sheo... oh. You think this is a trick?""Not entirely, I believe she is quite ill though I doubt the veracity of the cure. But... Go. There are cameras here, right?""Of course." He reached out, grasping Fasendil's arm. "Be leery. If she is an agent of Mephala who knows what kind of trouble she could cause.""I promise." Reaching out, he gave Sevan's hand a squeeze. "I'll see you soon. Watch over me?""I swear it."Waiting until Sevan had left the room entirely, Fasendil looked up at the ceiling for a long moment. "Auri-El. Grant me strength." Walking over to the sedative, he twisted the lever and sat down, eyes on the agent.Several moment passed before her eyelids fluttered and she almost immediately turned onto her side, coughing up bloodied flower petals. He watched them fall with a frown. Deathbells. Interesting."Sir!" She said, her eyes fever bright as she clasped her hands over her chest. "You're here!""Aryarie." He said quietly. "You've assisted our cause for a great many years. Of course I would come. How did this affliction come about?""It doesn't matter." She said quickly, pausing to cough up a few more petals. "All that matters is you're here. It will all be alright now." She nodded sharply. "Yes. Just your love..." She laughed. "And an infusion of Taproot.""Taproot." He stared down at her. "Taproot comes from Spriggans doesn't it?""You know your alchemy." She purred."I've heard Spriggans can cast some nasty curses." He said quietly."I wish it were that simple Sir." She said, coughing again, more blood splattering the floor."Aryarie. What have you done?""Sir?" She blinked. "I'm certain I have no idea what you mean.""Aryarie. You know I can tell when someone is lying to my face.""It was an accident Sir. If she had just made it clear that she only saw you as a mentor I would never have taken steps to remove her."You are the reason Virwen got caught and tortured. You foul creature. He bit back hard on a comment. "And Whiterun?""My intelligence was inaccurate." She said, coughing up more bloodied petals. "I'd been told that the man who'd bewitched you was the one who was supposed to be there. But it's alright! I'll get you another horse! I have the connections. And once you declare your love for me." She smiled, a garish sight with the blood staining her teeth. "I'll be cured and there will be nothing to keep us apart."He studied her, a deep, unsettling loathing roiling in his stomach. "You disturbed Spriggans in the hopes you would get this curse?""It's not a curse Fasendil! It's a blessing! Now you can see the depths of my devotion!" She reached a hand toward him. "I know how you treat your agents, you wouldn't let me die when the solution is so simple.""The solution is impossible." He said flatly. "Sevan did not bewitch me. And you cannot accidentally let slip an agents location to bounty hunters with explicit instructions for them to bring them to..." He broke off, schooling his expression. "You'll make a very pretty, if poisonous, flower."She stared at him, shock writ plain on her face. "Fasendil? You... you wouldn't!""You've already been stripped of all potential tech that would allow you to contact the outside world. Scanned for tracers. May you feel even a fraction of the pain you've caused while this curse works its course."Forcing herself upright, she staggered out of the bed, coughing up more bloodied petals, reaching for him. "Fasendil!"Coldly, he turned, walking out of the room and pulling it shut behind him."Sir." A brunet Imperial looked up at him, pulling away from where he'd been leaning against the wall. "Would you like me to lock it?" He asked, just barely audible over the loud sobbing echoing from the room.He swallowed hard. "Yes. We will find the antidote for the curse. And if she wishes to take it, she can.""With all due respect sir but I think you should let her turn into a flower. If that's what would actually happen." He said darkly, locking the door."You were eavesdropping.""Of course, Sir.""Sevan asked you to."He gave him a small smile. "He didn't have to."Managing a small appreciative nod, he walked down the hall, trying to school the tears off his face, reaching up to grip the trinket Sevan had made for him from Iron's mane. Estormo in therapy after having a panic attack in public. Virwen recovering from her ordeal, perhaps never able to be a field agent again. Iron is dead. Ancano losing his status as a double agent. Tsavani losing hers. How many of these incidents can be traced to her? Was she behind the Fury spell on me? Was it meant for Sevan instead? Surely there were signs I missed. "My love." Sevan's voice broke through his reverie and he looked up, almost surprised to realize he was in his office and Sevan was there, his arms open. With a small sob he leaned willingly into his offered embrace. "Fasendil. You did nothing wrong.""Surely there must have been signs of her obsession.""I'm certain there were." He agreed. "But it can so easily be disguised as obsession for the work." He reached up, brushing at the tears he'd let slip. "You do what so few manage. You allow yourself to trust your people.""I fear we'll be unraveling the damage done for months, if not years.""Yes. But don't lose hope." He smiled when Fasendil quirked an eyebrow. "We've gained more connections over the past year than we've ever had. We have allies now. It's not just us anymore.""But what kind of damage..."He trailed off when Sevan rested a finger against his lips. "They knew we had a rogue. They took steps. That they chose to still ally themselves with us is proof that what we're doing is important work."Taking several calming breaths, he nodded. "So, the question now is. What do we do with Aryarie? Letting her die of the curse as I threatened seems unnaturally cruel."Sevan wrinkled his nose. "Does it?""Sevan.""I will follow your lead as long as you promise me you will take my thoughts on the matter under consideration."He hmm'd under his breath, lifting one of Sevan's hands to kiss the palm and nodded. "I told Hadvar we would offer her the cure, and should she choose not to take it, it will be her decision."Sevan's eyes narrowed thoughtfully, and he nodded sharply. "I can accept that. I admit there is part of me that is dreadfully curious what she could have done to get the Spriggans to curse her instead of killing her outright. Could prove useful in the future. If only as a cautionary tale.""It may." He agreed, pulling Sevan against his chest. "And if she vanishes before we can question everything she's compromised, then we know the Daedra are involved."He shrugged. “We might never know. What’s important is that we’ve found the origin of our trouble and we will be able to counter her actions. But. If you must speak with her again. Not alone."He shivered, remembering the feverish gleam in her eyes when she spoke of her actions. "I would happily never speak to her again." He said hoarsely. "But if I must then I swear I'll have another with me.""Good." Resting his head on Fasendil's chest Sevan sighed. "We need a vacation."Laughing softly, his stress easing slightly, Fasendil nodded. "I'll try to think of something."
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Joker: Theatre"Spiced wine! Get your spiced wine here!"The vendor's voice blended with the others as Ancano slipped through the crowd, scanning for the flash of brown and red that would mark where Mati had disappeared to.A gaggle of children darted across his path, and he stopped to watch them run, their shouting laughter reminding him fondly of the few times he and the others had managed to slip away back home."Septim for your thoughts?"He shrugged a shoulder, half turning to face the short-haired woman who came to his side. She would have been identical to Mati were it not for her habit of keeping her hair cut short and the lack of scar on the right side of her neck. He swore to any who asked that Mati's eyes were a hair greener than Mal's and he privately stood by that sentiment when she lifted an eyebrow. "I was looking for Mati." He answered."That doesn't surprise me in the slightest. Walk with me.""I am surprised to see you in the city proper." He said, falling in step."And miss opening night? Silka would never forgive me.""I see. I forgot she had a part in this event.""You are a terrible liar." She said easily.A familiar laugh pierced through the chatter ahead of them before he could think of a rebuttal and he looked up, finding Mati speaking to her half-sister, hands weaving in front of her with a touch of illusion to illustrate whatever story she was telling. There you are. He thought warmly, noting the flash of a familiar book cover in her illusions and recognizing what story she was telling her sister."Matitrice!" Mal called out. "I found your man!"Mati turned, the brightness of her smile when she laid eyes on him enough to make his chest squeeze painfully hard."I swear I may as well not exist when you're around." Mal muttered, moving toward her sisters.Smiling, Ancano moved forward, reaching out to capture Mati's hand, twining their fingers together. "The last book we found for Urag?" He asked, watching her illusions flicker and regain strength."Yes." She said, flashing him a brilliant smile. "I was telling them about the drunkard at the inn."He nodded, watching her weave her tale, her sisters laughing when she detailed how the Argonian had conned nearly half the inn into buying his drunk act while he carefully accumulated more and more of their belongings all the while not even noticing the Khajiit mage sitting in the corner returning the items to their proper owners with a touch of telekinesis, a bored expression on his face."Was it actually J'zargo?" Mal asked, shaking her head when Mati let the Illusions fade."Yes." She said. "He was on his way back from visiting some family and told us that he was returning everything because he had a feeling that he'd get the blame if the thefts were discovered while he was still there.""And the Argonian?" Silka asked."Failed to lift a purse from a barmaid. The bouncer stepped in and hauled him outside. Based on the gossip, it was greatly surprising to the locals that no one had any missing belongings so I took it to mean he was a regular and J'zargo would have been safe regardless."A bell sounded and Silka smiled. "That's the cue. You four best find your seats." She said, moving swiftly along the street."This way." Mal said, leading them toward the front entrance of the Bard's College. "The College was recently expanded with the addition of a proper theatre and Viarmo is quite excited about the prospect of having more shows during the winter. The whole city has been buzzing about it truthfully.""Is the Jarl going to be here?" Mati asked.Mal flushed and Ancano tried not to smirk. It's definitely a family curse. How easily they blush. "I'll assume that is a yes. I take it you'll be separating from us to sit with the court?""Only because Sybille insisted I come in her stead." She said, her flush deepening.Probably smart for a vampire to not surround herself with so many people. He thought, glad of Mati's hold in the milling crowd."Sarlfi and Nevian should be here soon if they're not here already." Mati said. "We're sitting in the same section.""I'll let you know if I see them." He promised, scanning the crowd, swiftly picking out the small group that was the rest of Mati's family, easily done considering the slight berth the rest of the theatre goers gave them."See you after." Mal whispered, darting off to the side."She could have at least said hello." Mati grumped, drawing him toward them."She may be planning to speak with them later." He pointed out, greeting her brothers cordially, still uncertain what it was about the both of them that made his hair stand on end. A glance at Sarlfi's wife Elilia gave him the same prickly feeling and he frowned. One of these days I'll need to ask Mati about that. Although, I admit, I get the same odd sensation from the Companion twins. I suppose it is possible that these three are also werewolves. But then, why wouldn't they tell me?"This is so exciting!" Lucien said, gripping Nevian's arm tightly. "I haven't been to a proper play since I moved here!"Laughing, Nevian tugged him closer. "Let's get to our seats then?"By the way the Redguard led them through the crowded theatre, Ancano figured his suspicions were correct. No one asking anyone for a candlelight spell although it is darker than I expected. He thought, listening to Nev mutter the row letters as he scanned them, gesturing for him and Mati to enter first and he was pleased to see that they had a back row and the seats were angled so people of all heights would be able to see the stage easily. Ask after. He decided, looking up to see an elevated box seat, the Jarl of Solitude sitting in the throne in the center, Mal sitting in a seat just back from her on her left, her advisor on her right, her housecarl standing near the exit, a man in too familiar armor standing next to him and he swallowed hard to see the tall Altmer woman walk in to sit in the second high backed throne in the box, a slight sneer on her face. Elenwen."Oh." Mati whispered. "That's why she didn't stay to chat.""Don't worry overmuch." Nevian whispered, leaning past Lucien. "We've got it on good authority that Elenwen has already spread word to her guards that she'll be leaving at intermission. Just sit tight rather than going for refreshments.""I can do that." He responded, pulling Mati's hand into his lap.Still, although he was dressed in nondescript clothing and knew he wouldn't stand out overmuch, he worried at his bottom lip, unmoving until the lights went down and he sagged slightly. Mati leaned against him as the play began and he tried to focus on the stage. The lights, music and costumes were beautifully done, Ancano could admit that readily. And he noted a few touches that would not be amiss back in Summerset, wondering as he watched the story if Viarmo had come from the Isles directly.It was a light hearted story which he hadn't quite expected but found a pleasant reprieve from too many of his day to day affairs and he found himself being drawn into the tale of the Pirate King and his daring escapades. Intermission struck at the end of a lighthearted moment and many moved toward the exits for refreshment with bubbling laughter in their conversations."So, what hand did your sister have in it?" He asked, realizing he hadn't seen anyone that looked like Silka on stage."She helped write the music." Mati responded. "And she's playing with the musicians.""Ah. It is an amusing tale.""Alec wrote it after spending time with some of Rheanna's friends. Way they talk, they're actual pirates so maybe some of the tales have basis in fact.""I hope not all of them do." Lucien chimed in. "That escapade with the Sload, while amusing to watch, would have been terrifying!"Ancano smiled, dredging up everything he'd learned about Sloads as a child to agree with the Imperial and discuss points about the story, letting himself become engrossed enough in the discussion that he didn't risk a glance at the box seat.The second half of the play was as entertaining as the first and he stretched out when the lights came up, a bit surprised to hear the popping in his spine as he straightened his back, relieved when a surreptitious glance at the box seat proved it empty. "It was perhaps a bit longer than I expected." He said quietly."Come this way." Nevian said. "We've got backstage passes." He added, grinning at Ancano's lifted eyebrow.Nodding, they moved through the crowds toward the front of the house.Backstage held a mass of performers chatting amongst themselves as they wiped makeup clear or carefully peeled costumes off with the occasional threat from one of the people dressed all in black darting through the groups collecting clothing and items used during the performance.Silka stood with a couple of musicians, another Nord woman and a Redguard man, all three laughing as they carefully wiped down their instruments with cloths, Silka grinning at them as they approached. "So, what did you think?" She asked, eyes bright."It was an amusing tale." Ancano said."Not half bad." Nevian said, laughing when Lucien sighed loudly and rapped his arm lightly. "It was excellent Sil. Good job.""Even if the Thalmor Ambassador didn't stay through the whole thing." The Redguard said sourly.Ancano schooled his wince, noting the sudden lack of cheer on Silka's face, knowing by the way Mati gripped his hand that she echoed it."I wouldn't be surprised." Lucien said quietly. "That she saw fit to leave but didn't see fit to stop the play at Intermission or before, is a good thing." He grimaced. "Trust me.""You speak from experience?" The Nord asked."Not personally but I was at a play they disproved of once." He responded. "The liaison left in the middle of the first act and came back with soldiers during intermission, rounded up every bard involved, actor, stage-crew, musician. Everyone. It was terrifying.""Which is why I took the precaution of running the script by one of Elenwen's aides before opening night." A firm voice interrupted, a richly dressed Altmer stepping into their midst. "Illdi, Ataf, make sure the Junior Bards get the music stands cleared up.""Yes Viarmo." They said quietly, giving Silka a friendly smile before moving away, instrument cases in hand."Bards. Terrible gossips." Viarmo said, skewering Lucien with his gaze for a long moment before turning his attention to Ancano. "You're new around here. What did you think of the play?" He asked, gaze calculating."I wondered if the writer was influenced by the Isles." He responded honestly."Hard not to be when Sloads are involved in the story." He said, watching his face then nodding. "Yes. I miss it sometimes. But I did not do most of the writing so was able to keep the influence to a minimum.""I heard.""This way. We'll speak now before the After Party begins.""Aren't after parties usually held after the play has run its course?" Lucien asked, the group falling in step behind the headmaster."Usually." He said. "But we thought it fitting to have one if opening night went well. And it went better than I could have hoped." "I am surprised that so many of your family came, Silka." Viarmo said warmly once the group entered a library and he'd flicked a spell out, nodding respectfully to Jarl Elisif and her attachments as they did the same."We didn't want to miss opening night." Mal said brightly. "It's rare she gets to be involved in something so big with her art anymore.""Rude." Silka protested. "I'm quite pleased with how things are going at the Coffee Shop."Viarmo nodded. "She has a point.""Which one?" Nevian asked, grinning when both women rolled their eyes."Sorry I didn't sit with you earlier." Mal said, "I didn't want to draw attention to you when Elenwen showed up.""We understand." Elilia promised."I do believe you should leave by the Dock Gate though." Viarmo said seriously. "You know that half your number make people very nervous even if they don't understand why.""True." Sarlfi agreed. "We tend to stand out.""Why is that?" Ancano asked quietly.They startled and Mati went crimson. "Hircine's breath. I swear it wasn't meant. I didn't even realize..."He held a hand up. "Werewolves?" He asked."Yes." Sarlfi responded. "Me, Elilia and Nev. You seriously didn't tell him?"Mati's flush extended to her hairline and Ancano observed it with a small touch of amusement overwriting the slight sting of hurt, knowing it marked genuine remorse."Sometimes when things are normal to you, you forget they are not normal to others." Viarmo remarked."I'm so sorry." She said, looking up at him. "I swear. It didn't even cross my mind. I, you know so much else that I didn't even...""Well, at least I know not to buy you silver." He remarked, grinning when she sighed heavily and leaned against him, hiding her face in his jacket."I'm not a werewolf. I can wear silver. Though it would be a bit rude." She said, her voice muffled."So. The dock gate." Viarmo said. "And thank you for coming. I'm sure it means a lot to Silka.""Means a lot to see us all in one place." Mal said quietly, Jarl Elisif's Housecarl reaching out to squeeze her shoulder gently. "Even if some of us are more surprising than others." She added, looking at Ancano.He shrugged. "Sometimes it takes an outside perspective to realize you've been led astray." He said."There is truth in that." Viarmo said quietly, shaking his head and grinning. "Don't be strangers but perhaps come in smaller groups next time." He said brightly. "Come Silka, let's go celebrate a successful night of theatre!"With a nod, Silka gave each of her siblings and their partners a hug, hesitating by Ancano then shaking her head and giving him a hug as well. He returned it with a small jolt of surprise. "Guess it's sticking so. Welcome to the family." She whispered, pulling back with a grin, wrinkling her nose at something Nevian said and heading toward the door, disappearing through it with Viarmo."Anything we need to be aware of?" Sarlfi asked, turning to the court members.Jarl Elisif shook her head. "No. But we'd best leave separately. Don't need to arouse too much gossip." She looked at Ancano. "I have not asked Mal your name. I'll be keeping it that way for some time. Plausible deniability and all that.""Thank you." He said gravely, bowing his head slightly.She smiled at Mal. "You're not the only one who has found love in this family."Mal turned crimson and Ancano looked down at Mati, smiling to see the grin there. "Although we cannot do this often, it was a pleasant night with pleasant company." He said quietly."Yes, it was." Lucien agreed. "Come on. Let's head out toward the train station. See if we can catch the coffee stand before it closes."They split apart at the gate, Lucien and Nevian heading toward the train station to head back to Whiterun, Elilia and Sarlfi toward the North Road, Ancano suspecting they had contacts in the area. Looking down at Mati, he smiled, twining his magic with hers, sighing contentedly before casting the recall spell to bring them home.
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Annoying Neighbour"Oh wow." Estormo whispered. "I wonder how that happened." He couldn't stop a grin as he watched the Justiciar Ondolemar get hauled back to his feet by his guards, scowling at the ground, tugging at his mud splattered jacket as he tried to identify the cause of his tumble, speaking quietly to his men before turning back toward his manor.As soon as they went inside, Estormo used a touch of telekinesis to clear the pathway of the nearly invisible length of wire that had been the cause of the Justiciar's undignified slip. The games have begun. He thought, winding the wire into a small ball and tucking it into his jacket before downing an invisibility potion and disappearing into the rocky city.The Reachfolk kept the Thalmor at arm’s length but their unwillingness to incite them into a war they could not yet win meant they tolerated their presence in the city. And Estormo intended to capitalize on their mutual distrust.A soft raven call caught his attention, and he changed his trajectory, climbing onto a balcony where the main advisor to the throne leaned against the wall of the home he shared with his sister. "Estormo, I presume?" He greeted."And you'd be Cael." He responded, crouching low and leaning against the wall himself, waiting for the invisibility potion to wear off the rest of the way."That I was able to ascertain your whereabouts while you were under the effects of an invisibility potion should alarm you, should it not?""Not really." He said, grinning up at him when he made a disbelieving noise. "I wanted to talk to you, so I made sure I moved between certain light spots to distort them enough to draw your attention.""Then you've made a study of me.""Of course! I'd be terrible at what I do if I didn't." He sobered. "I just wanted to make sure you knew that I won't be here long. Just long enough to irritate, mess with a few things, get some information. I'll be the world’s most annoying neighbour to your resident Thalmor and then I'll vanish as though I'd never been.""And you wanted to speak to me because?""You'll know best if my actions are coming too close to causing you trouble.""An interesting sentiment coming from the world's most annoying neighbour."He grinned. "I take it we have an understanding?""We do.""Good to meet you Cael. I’ll stop by again tomorrow?" He said, waiting for a nod before downing another potion, rising and dropping over the edge of the balcony, moving swiftly toward Ondolemar's office, slowing as memories threatened to overwhelm him. Do this part once. Only once. But it'll cause a nice stir.Slipping inside, he settled near the inner door, observing the Thalmor lounging around, two Gold Skirmishers were arguing in low tones nearby and he memorized their appearance swiftly before rising and heading back toward the outer door.He paused a few steps from it and pulled a small cylindrical object out of his pocket, touching it with the smallest brush of magic and lobbing it back toward the Skirmishers, biting back his laughter when they scattered from the smoke, leaving the building and moving back to the rooftops, feeling a thrill of exhilaration as he ran.Perching atop a cliff edge, he studied the city below him. It had seemed almost childish, the work that Fasendil had asked him to do here, but he had to admit, as he watched the Thalmor soldiers conversing loudly near their office that it was more entertaining than he'd expected.The smoke bomb will get written off as a prank by one of the locals, but their tracing will find nothing. He smirked with satisfaction. And if they try to put pressure on Madanach or disappear any of his loyal citizens then they risk their carefully curated facade as an honest treaty partner.The setting sun prompted him to move again, and he headed toward the edge of the city. Better to rest outside its confines and return in the morning. He realized, as he neared the stables that he was still smiling, feeling lighter than he had in months, and he half turned to look back at the city. So that's why Fasendil asked me to do this. To regain my confidence. Sneaky bastard. I'll have to make him proud.
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Choir"That was beautiful." Tsavani said quietly, wiping moisture away from her eyes as she watched the singers packing up their songbooks and speaking quietly among themselves."They are coming along quite well." Alec agreed, his arms folded over his chest as he watched them. "I'm honestly impressed.""Did you expect them to do poorly?" Tsavani asked."I knew they all had singing ability because they made it through auditions but..." He shrugged. "Most of them are not here to study music. They'd be in Solitude if they were hoping for that.""I see."He grinned at her, reaching out to wrap an arm over her shoulders. "I don't mind! Honestly, I don't. I'm just pointing out the obvious. They're here to study their trades or to work within the town.""Then why did you bother with the auditions?" She wondered, watching the last of the choir leave."Because I wanted people who wanted to be here." He answered, walking through the room, pausing to look up at the statue of Dibella he'd commissioned for the space. "I'm comfortable with this place starting small. It gives me more time to help you with your food stand. And gives me more time to work on my music and other obligations.""You missed being around other musicians." She said softly."I suppose I did." He agreed. "My play did very well from what I heard but I know you're more comfortable living away from Solitude.""For good reason."."For very good reason." He agreed. "And Falkreath needed something lively. An attraction other than the very impressive cemetery.""You are nervous.""You know me too well my muse." He said. "The Priestesses will be here the day after tomorrow. I think the choir sounds good. But I want..." He sighed. "I want them to approve of this space. Maybe even suggest ways they could make it more official.""You would make a terrible Priest."He laughed, staring at the statue. "I know. But..." He shook his head. "I thought, maybe we could turn this into some sort of school? And then I could focus on that instead of trying to be the best Bard?""You want to teach? Who are you and what happened to my Prince of Song?" She teased, leaning her head on his shoulder."Working Bards move around too much." He responded. "Your stand is in Falkreath, and now this space. I don’t want to leave you and I think we could do something good here if the Priestesses approve. Besides. With how well the play did, the rest of Tamriel can still get the Prince of Song." He smiled at her. "You just get Alec. With all my flaws.""This one would not have it any other way." She purred, looking at the statue."I think we ought to commission the artist for a bit more work. I didn't even realize you could do such intricate work in wood." He mused. "Maybe see if they'd be willing to carve designs into the benches and walls. Make this place really comfortable for artists.""If you're going to go through with your school idea, you'll need space for artists who draw.""That's true." He agreed. "Maybe you should move your stand into the courtyard here. We could make it a fully functional visual college. Invite artists from across all of Tamriel!" He paced away from her to survey the space. "Make the choral room here the central room! Branch out there and there. Studio space for sculptors to the North, the Eastern wing for the painters and illustrators. Stick the musicians in the west wing and recommend they head to Solitude as soon as they feel confident.""Speak with Viarmo." She suggested. "He would be displeased if he thought you were trying to compete with the Bards College.""You make a good point my muse. But even Viarmo would admit that there needs to be another place to study the arts. For all that Nords are a rustic people they do take pleasure in a good song or a nice bit of art. Maybe not as much as... weavers! Textiles instead of musicians? Then Viarmo could have even less reason to dislike this space! Keep to only the small community choir.""Nords do like their fibers." Tsavani agreed. "Although Falkreath is not a hub of sheep or cotton.""We'd have to trade with Whiterun." He conceded. "But the dye you can get from the plants around here is second to none. If I knew anything about dyeing, I'd have a wardrobe half as good as what I had when I first came here." He said wistfully."But one thing at a time Alec." Tsavani cautioned. "Your choir will sing for the Priestesses of Dibella. And once they have you will find out what the Goddess thinks of your plans.""You're right Tsavani." He said, forcing himself to take a calming breath. "Getting excited will only set myself up for disappointment if I fail.""This one will stand at your side. No matter the outcome." She promised."Then..." He hesitated, fumbling in his pocket. "After their visit. Regardless of the outcome with the choir and the Priestesses." He took a deep breath, pulling two pieces of jewelry free. "I figured. Since we're in Skyrim and I spent the last two months failing at writing an appropriate poem, I'd do it this way but also a little of how I grew up..." He opened his hand to reveal a glittering ring inlaid with four flawless topaz gems nestled next to an ornate amulet of Mara. "Perhaps we could visit Riften? If you want. I know things are often..."She cut him off with a kiss, wrapping her hand over his, letting the jewelry press into both their hands. "Yes.""Really?" He squeezed her close, slipping the ring on her finger and settling the amulet around her neck. "We'll have the choir perform at the wedding! We can't do it too large considering your former vocation, but we'll make sure your family can come! As many as you want! Or if there's any Khajiit customs! Whatever you want."She smiled, reaching a hand up to rest on his cheek, admiring the glint of the topaz against her fur. "I do not think that Skyrim is ready for some of the weddings Khajiit have held." She laughed. "We will speak with those in the Temple of Mara." She said firmly. "They will guide our plan."He smiled, resting his head on her shoulder. "I will write you poetry every day we're married. A song every week."Laughing, she pulled back slightly and patted his cheek again. "How about when inspiration strikes.""Whatever you wish my muse." He promised, clasping her clawed hands in his. "Whatever your heart desires."
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Spies and AssassinsWith a soft sigh, Fasendil pushed back from his desk, leaning back in his chair and watching his computer power down. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have a day off.Rising, he stretched, grimacing as his body protested the movement and he heard popping sounds in his back. I'm getting too old for this.His phone rang and he pulled it out, studying the ID and smiling before answering it and putting it to his ear. "Talk quickly.""The Reach is in turmoil Sir. I barely had to do anything before the locals started getting in on the fun. People are incredibly uncomfortable.""I'm glad to hear it.""I'll contact you at the agreed upon time. Good to be back in the field Sir."Pleased, he hung up, sliding his phone back in his pocket. Auri-El, it is good to hear Estormo speaking with that positive lilt to his voice again. Moving toward the door, he paused and pulled his phone out again, calling a new contact, resting his phone against his ear. "Veezara. I hope there has been no change in our status?""You know I am honor bound to call you if there is." He responded, his voice pleasantly smooth. "Your enemy still seeks other methods to remove you. You can rest easy tonight.""I appreciate it. I've dispatched an agent to Black Marsh to find the agreed upon payment. They should be getting back to me shortly.""I am pleased to hear it land-strider." The line went dead, and he sighed, pocketing his phone again. The halls lay empty, but he walked carefully, eying crevices and angles, listening for any signs of movement. Once outside, he cast a simple alert spell, plotting his route as he headed toward home. "There you are." Sevan greeted, turning back toward the stove top, subtly sheathing a blade.Fasendil smiled, canceling his alert spell, sweeping a quick spell through the house and adding to Sevan's wards as he took his heavy outer jacket off and hung it up, unwinding his scarf and twining it around the appropriate hook. Raking a hand through his hair he allowed himself to sag against the door, relieved to be home."Dinner will be ready shortly love." Sevan promised, smiling over at him."I'm glad to hear it." He said, unlacing his boots and pulling them off, moving toward his husband."Anything good happen today?" The Dunmer asked, splitting the food between two plates."I heard from Estormo. He's doing better.""Good. That's one of your little agents we don't need to worry over anymore. Anything else?""Yes, but nothing I can share yet. Have to wait and see how it pans out." He said, shaking his head, wishing he didn't have to hide it. But he understands.Sevan nodded, setting the pan to the back of the stove and lifting the plates. "Go wash up. I'll get the table set." I'll need to have Sevan check on the Morag Tong from time to time. Make sure the Thalmor haven't managed to worm their way into their good graces. Splashing water on his face, Fasendil stared into the mirror for a long moment, noting the lines on his face, the deep circles under his eyes. I'm too old for this. Maybe I should start thinking of a successor. His phone rang and he sighed heavily. "What do you need?" He asked."I never thought I'd miss Skyrim, but this trip back home taught me I'm nowhere as connected to the Hist as I used to be."Derkeethus. "I'm sorry to hear that.""It was a valuable lesson Land-Strider. I do not regret it." He said quietly. "I will meet you at Solitude Docks."Too dangerous to use the land route. Troubling. "I will see you there. Travel safely.""Thank you."Tucking the phone away he headed into the dining room. "Sorry love." He greeted.Sevan looked up from his phone and shook his head. "It's at perfect temperature now.""You know me too well." Fasendil said, sitting and looking down at the meal. "It looks delightful.""That's what you always say.""It's always true, isn't it?" He countered, smiling when Sevan ducked his head."Flattery. Always flattery with you. No wonder you do the work you do. Too silver tongued for anyone to hate for long." He smiled, pouring them each a measure of wine. "A useful conversation I hope?""Yes. Very good information." Should help keep the Brotherhood off our backs for even longer. A relief to be sure. "One question about work before I table it for the night. What are the chances that the Thalmor will approach the Morag Tong?""High." Sevan responded, then smiled. "Chances they'll successfully get them to help them? Low. There is no love lost between the Aldmeri Dominion and the Morag Tong.""Good.""If they were to regain their full strength, I would worry again but..." He shook his head. "They're still too splintered. I've only heard of three assassinations in the last year that can be traced to them.""Thank you.""Anything to put your mind at ease." He sighed. "Now eat. According to Hadvar you're stress drinking coffee again.""You know, I bet he'd have less trouble with it if I was drinking mead all day." He griped, sipping at his wine with a fond smile for Sevan."Perhaps. But I can always trust Hadvar to keep me up to date about your condition.""That's the trouble with working with spies." He grumbled. "You can't keep secrets from your husband."Sevan snorted. "And a good thing too dearest. Oh..." He frowned, poking at his food. "Love. I was thinking.""What is it?""There's a horse breeder outside Riften. He's been experimenting with crossbreeding Skyrim horses with steeds from other lands. Last I spoke to him, he'd gotten his hands on an Alinor bred stud. He happens to owe me a favor, so I was wondering... Did you want one of the foals?"Fasendil considered it, tears welling in his eyes as he contemplated the man across from him. It would be different enough from Iron. A fresh beginning. "How did I get so lucky in love?" He asked, reaching his hand across the table to grasp Sevan's."I'm glad." He said, squeezing his hand tightly. "I'll let him know in the morning. You'll get to pick which broodmare you want a foal from. And he'll expect reports when the foal is old enough for riding.""A small price." He mused. "Thank you."Sevan smiled, leaning over the table, lifting Fasendil's hand to his lips. "Anything for you, my love."Fasendil returned the smile, reaching out to caress Sevan's cheek. "Did you have dessert planned? Or can we retire so I can thank you properly?""The dessert can keep for an hour or two." He said easily, pulling away to push back from the table."Perfect." The Altmer murmured, pushing back himself and moving swiftly around the table, pulling Sevan against him, losing himself in the other Mer’s eyes. "Perfect." He repeated, leaning in to kiss him gently, tasting the wine on his tongue when he deepened the kiss.Pulling slightly back, he studied him for a second before sliding his hands down to lock with Sevan's, lifting them up and brushing a kiss against the knuckles."Bedroom." Sevan suggested, stepping back with a soft smile. "We're too old for table sex."With a laugh, Fasendil released one hand, allowing himself to be led toward the bedroom.
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Joker: Soulmates "Matitrice. I was curious about something." Ancano started, leaning back in his chair and looking toward the bed where his lover was sorting through some papers."What's that?""Do werewolves truly believe in soulmates?""Of a sort." She said. "Hircine apparently made it easier for his wolves to find someone who would accept them. So, I believe that's where the idea came from.""Do you believe it? Wouldn't your father prove that it's not true?"She wrinkled her nose. "Not necessarily. My sibs and I have discussed it a few times. We figure that Silka's mother was probably the closest he came to the whole soulmate thing; but we came to that conclusion primarily because he didn't kill her like he did Nev and Sarlfi's mothers.""What happened to Silka's mother?""She became a Hagraven.""I thought your mother...?""Failed to become one yes. But ugh, it's complicated. Basically, from what Sarlfi's been willing to tell me, my mother and Silka's mother were pretty close. So maybe they were all soulmates?" She shrugged. "Guess they'd prove that even terrible people have souls.""But do you believe it?""Hard not to when you talk to my brothers and their partners." She rolled onto her stomach, resting her chin on her hand. "Maybe they're proof that you can create a soul bond. Not like what Farkas and Vitene have exactly but...""But maybe it's not so much destiny as a choice?" He asked."Yeah.""Altmer have a similar viewpoint. Or did prior to the Thalmor." He half smiled. "Even when an Altmer marries someone with a shorter lifespan they tend not to remarry after their death.""That seems lonely." She said softly, moving into a sitting position."Yes." He agreed, rising and crossing to the bed, sitting down next to her. "I suppose it is. But I think it's, honorable in a way. We do not make intimate connections easily. Perhaps that makes us cold but...""Do you see it that way?" She wondered, moving back down to the bed, laying her head on his lap."I'm not sure how I see it." He admitted."What brought this topic to mind?""The reports I'm working on are particularly dry this time around, so I suppose that I was attempting to find a more interesting topic to dwell on.""And that led to werewolves and soulmates?" She asked, smiling up at him."Would it bother you if I considered you my soulmate?"Lifting a hand, she brushed a strand of hair out of his face. "Now why on Nirn would that bother me?""You're much younger than I. What if you wanted someone else?""With how little I get out of the College I find that hard to believe." She teased, sobering when he sighed. "I'd be honest with you." She promised. "I'm not certain my thoughts on the soulmate matter but I do know I treasure our relationship.""And yet, not enough to get married?" He asked, his smile easing the bite of his words, smothering his confusion. I can’t begin to understand your distaste of marriage and I worry that your discomfort is because of who I was, so perhaps this conversation will prove to be an enlightening one.She wrinkled her nose. "I just don't like the idea of it. I've seen so few marriages that don't have some sort of strings attached; or where those involved would have been better off not marrying at all.""What do you mean by strings?" He wondered."Well, Sarlfi and Elilia have the responsibility of running their pack. And everything to do with the Silver Hand. Lucien is going to gain more ire from the Silver Hand by marrying Nev. And Nev will have more worry about the Coffee Shop. Can't we be soulmates without being married?"He smiled down at her. "I don't see why not. I understand viewing marriage as a confirmation of ones views but I fail to see how being dedicated lovers is different.""I can't really explain it." She frowned, sighing heavily. "Maybe it's that it feels weird to involve the gods in something so personal. Discomfort with drawing their attention. Besides, I don't need a label to show you or the world how I feel." She murmured. "Meddling gods." He mused, playing with her hair. "When you put it that way, it makes a good deal of sense. Better to avoid the attention of Gods and Daedra."Her eyes brightened and she smiled. "Yes. Exactly."He hid his slightly relieved sigh, tugging at a lock of her hair. "I always assumed I'd get married one day. But then, I assumed a lot about how my life would turn out. I can adjust to this." Meddling gods is not discomfort with my past but something that would affect any relationship. That certainly helps put my mind at ease."I don't want you to have to settle."Shaking his head, he tapped her nose. "No. It's not settling. Maybe one day you'll change your mind about marriage, but I can honestly tell you it doesn't bother me either way. I admit I feared it was not marriage itself but the idea of a marriage with me that worried me.”“Ancano.” She murmured, brushing her thumb along his cheek. “You’ve changed, and very much for the better.”He nodded. “I have. I like that I have. As to us. Maybe one day we'll be unhappy with our arrangement. But should that ever come to pass, you'll always hold an important place in my heart.""Likewise. But please promise not to let me hold you back if you decide marriage is important to you.""I swear I'll inform you if I feel confined or unfulfilled." He shrugged. "I brought it up mostly because I did not understand, and I was feeling insecure about how I fit in with your viewpoint. But I feel I do understand better now, and I appreciate that knowledge.""You just see me as a puzzle to figure out." She teased."It would be a boring world the day you cease to challenge my viewpoints.""You're not the only one who's learned." Reaching up, she rested her hand on the side of his face. "Let's focus on making Nirn a safer place. After that we can revisit my feelings on marriage. Who knows, maybe they'll have changed."Laughing softly, he lifted her hand up, kissing her palm. "No pressure." He promised. "Looking to a future that has you in it is good enough for me."
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Ghosts "I'm not sure this had anything to do with the Thalmor." Estormo said quietly, sitting in the snow in the small graveyard above Morthal."No. I believe that this was a mission recommended to get us a bit more spending money." Virwen said, sitting down next to him, leaning into him when he wrapped an arm around her. "I'm not cleared for standard work yet anyway.""That's a good point." He agreed. "How are you going to deal with this?" He wondered. "That little girl...""If that little girl is sticking around as a ghost, then there's something very wrong going on." She responded. "And I'm curious to find out who the 'other one' is. I'm just glad Rheanna isn't here. She's very touchy when anything involved children in danger crops up.""Has she started doing jobs for Fasendil?" He wondered, staring at the disturbed ground around Helgi's grave."She's picked up one or two." She tugged at her belt, moving it to sit more comfortably. "She says she wants to keep her Sell Sword skills relatively sharp.""Have you gone on any with her?"She shook her head. "This is the first mission I've been on with another person. Unless you count our teaching assignment." She nudged his side. "Are you alright? You seem rattled.""I'm worried." He jerked his head toward the disturbed ground. "It makes me uneasy the way the ground has been disturbed. Who'd try to get to a child's body?""Perhaps her father went mad with grief? Maybe he's looking into necromantic rituals to bring her back?""Maybe." He agreed. "Necromancer is a distinct possibility.""It'll be dark soon and we'll find out.""Are you going to conjure your Sabre Cat?""I will." She said. "She'll watch our back while we look for Helgi.""Playing hide and seek with a ghost. Not something I ever expected to do." He grinned. "I'd say little Helgi has a distinct advantage over us.""She does."They lapsed into silence, Estormo watching the sun get lower on the horizon, shifting uncomfortably when the cold started biting through his pants, numbing his ass. Finally, as the last of the light faded, he moved into a low crouch, holding still and waiting for the prickles to ease up from sitting so long, watching Virwen move as well, calling light purple around her hand, her Snowy Sabre Cat appearing among a few graves further in the cemetery.She nodded to him, just visible in the light cast by the moons and the summon, moving toward Helgi's grave."Helgi!" She called. "We did as you said. I think I've found you."A small giggle answered her. "You've got to make Laelette go away." She said. "Then I can come out.""Laelette?" She asked. "Who's that?"The summon snarled and Estormo whirled, drawing his sword and calling flames to his hand, eyes widening when he saw the Breton woman with glowing eyes being born to the ground by Virwen's summon.The sabre cat made short work of her and Estormo moved to the cat’s side, studying the vampire’s pale skin, watching it begin to crumble as a Nord man ran up the path."Laelette? Laelette? Are you out here?" He hesitated when he saw them, paling when he saw the woman on the ground. He lunged forward, halting, dropping to the ground in horror as the woman finished collapsing into dust. "Laelette? Laelette? NO!!"The heartbreak in his voice cut through Estormo and he winced, dropping to a knee beside him. "I'm sorry for your loss." He murmured, glancing over his shoulder to see Helgi approaching.The man glanced up, the wash of anger on his face replaced by new horror when he spotted the ghost. "Helgi. Why are you still here?""Hello." She said sweetly, then frowned, crossing her arms and looking at Estormo. "Alva told Laelette to burn down my house with mommy and me. Only, she didn't want me to die so she kissed me on the neck and said I could be with her forever. And then I got cold." She frowned. "But I'm all burned up now. And so is mommy." She looked at the dust. "Is that Laelette? Did she burn up too?"Estormo grimaced, glancing at Virwen to see a pensive expression on her face as she approached the ghost. "No honey." She said quietly. "Can you tell me about Alva?"“She works at the big inn, and she likes to talk to everyone. Her eyes are glowy at night sometimes. It’s really pretty!""You're saying Alva is a vampire?" Thonnir whispered. "No. I can't believe it. Laelette must have met her fate out in the swamp."Helgi shook her head. "Laelette told me that Alva told her to kill mommy and me so she could have my papa all to herself."Rage contorted the man's face and he lurched to his feet, Helgi taking a frightened step back and vanishing, Virwen and Estormo rising, eyes on the Nord. "I'll kill her. I'll kill the vampire." He snarled, pulling a wood axe from his belt and bolting toward the town."Do you want to stop him or shall I?" Virwen asked, running after him."Have you cat sit on him!" Estormo suggested, running with her, boosting his speed slightly as she directed her cat to leap on the Nord's back.He shrieked his rage as he fell, four guards moving swiftly to investigate.Virwen crouched by him as Estormo held a piece of paper up, handing it to the nearest guard."I understand your impulse." Virwen said gently. "But have you ever fought a vampire before?"The man convulsed into sobs, releasing the wood axe, the summon moving off his back when he moved to curl in on himself."Vampire?" One of the guards asked. "Where?"Estormo turned to look at him and frowned, spotting a dark haired woman watching them, her eyes almost glowing in the light of the torches. She met his gaze and smiled, moving toward the group, swaying her hips as she walked."Evening gentlemen." She purred, looking down at Thonnir with a small frown."Alva." One of the guards greeted, his eyes dropping immediately to her chest."Interesting style of dress for such a cold night." Virwen said, crossing her arms. "And you're not even shivering.""I'm a Nord sweetie." She said, shooting her a venomous look."So are they." She responded flatly, gesturing to the guards who traded frowns, looking down at their gear. "Helgi said someone named Alva told Laelette to kill her and her mother so this Alva could have her papa all to herself. As Laelette was a vampire and your name is Alva, it raises questions wouldn't you say?"Thonnir shifted, scrambling toward his axe, Virwen's summon sitting on him."I'm sure I don't understand what you could be saying." Alva started."Of course." Estormo agreed. "My partner is just jealous of your Nordic immunity to the cold. But I'm certain no one here would mind if I cast a Turn Undead spell on each of you to be sure the vampire isn't in our midst. Right?""Jarl's orders give you clearance to do what you need to for the investigation." One of the guards said gruffly. "So, if you can convince me it's necessary.""It's not." Alva cut in, giving him a sweet smile when he glanced at her. "Of course it's not." She laughed. "Vampires? Please. High Elves are always making things up. You know you can't trust them.""Do you have a healer or mage you trust to cast the spell?" Estormo asked. "If you don't want a High Elf doing it?"The guard shook his head with a slight frown. "No. I think... cast your spell. We've nothing to hide.""It's not necessary." Alva insisted."It doesn't hurt." He promised. "Some people even think it feels good. Unless you're undead of course."She hissed, baring fangs in a frantic grimace, lunging toward the nearest guard, Virwen moving in fast to intercept her, grabbing her and flinging her over her shoulder, summoning a blade as she rose, her cat diverting from the Nord on the ground to pounce on Alva."He'll get you all! He'll turn you all into blood slaves!" She screamed, trying to wiggle out from under the saber cat's paws. "Movarth is coming, and he will enslave your little town.""I suppose I won't be needing that Turn Undead spell after all." Estormo said quietly."What are we supposed to do with her?" One of the guards asked."Someone run for Falion. He'll know."She screamed her rage again, trying to scramble away, the summon yawning and moving her paw just enough to trap the vampire further. "Hmm, it would seem I owe Jonna twelve septims." A Redguard said, moving toward the group, his mage robes slightly tousled."Falion. What are we supposed to do with her?" A guard asked.He crouched near her. "Do you want to be cured?" He asked."Movarth is going to enjoy draining you, mage." She hissed. "He'll turn you and loose you on your little..."A brilliant white-gold spell flashed from his hand, obliterating the vampire and he rose. "That's that." He said quietly. "Now what to do about the lair.""You think there's a lair?" Estormo asked."She spoke of a Movarth. Likely her creator and if she was as recently turned as Jonna suspected, that means he's nearby.""Wait until morning or go now?" Virwen asked, her sword vanishing."Wait until noon." Estormo suggested. "Hit them when they're weakest.""Good thought." She agreed, smiling at him."We'll tell the Jarl what happened here." The guards said, helping Thonnir to his feet. "I assume you two will be spending the night at the inn?""Yes." Estormo responded."Then we'll see you then." Movarth's Lair"Vampires and their pets." Virwen grumbled, watching the second Frostbite spider fall."Are you afraid of spiders?" One of the townsfolk, a broadly built Nord named Benor asked."No. I just don't care for them." She said, smiling over at Estormo when he moved to her side.They moved further in, killing thralls as they attacked them, one of the four guardsmen dropping back when a vampire erupted from the shadows, half crushing his leg before one of Falion's spells roasted the creature.Stepping into a banquet room, they fanned out slightly, the vampire at the head of the table rising swiftly, snarling.Virwen's cat responded with a yowl, darting forward to throw herself at the nearest enemy, galvanizing the two groups to clash.Estormo stayed at Virwen's side, utilizing sword and fire indiscriminately when a wild cry saw the death of Movarth, his thralls dropping weapons and dashing away, the rest of the vampires falling swiftly."Good." Virwen murmured, reaching out to catch Estormo's hand, smiling up at him. "That's taken care of.""Drink this." Falion ordered, pushing a potion into each of their hands, moving on to look at the three remaining guards and Benor, fussing over injuries. "I assume you'll be reporting this to the Jarl?" One of the guards asked."Yes." Estormo agreed. And to Fasendil. Not sure what he'll make of the vampire component."Go on then, we'll make sure this place is empty. Thank you for your help."With a small nod, the two elves moved away from the group."Hello again!" Helgi's voice startled them and Virwen squeezed Estormo's hand hard, resting her other on her chest. "I can hear mommy calling." She said, smiling up at them. "Thank you for playing with me!"They nodded. "We took care of the vampires." Estormo said softly."Okay. I’m sleepy so I’m going to go now. Bye!"Forget the vampire part of it. What will Fasendil make of the ghost part? Shaking his head to clear it as the child faded away, Estormo tugged on Virwen's hand, smiling at her when she turned her face toward the weak sunlight as they exited."I don't know what it is about going into caves, but sunlight always feels better when you get out." She murmured."It does." He agreed. "Come on. Let's go talk to the Jarl and let her know what happened here.""I'm glad Helgi moved on." She said, not relinquishing her hold on his hand as they walked. "My city owes you a great debt. We'll make sure you're adequately compensated." Jarl Ravencrone said quietly. "They will fade. The memories. They will never fully leave but they will fade. I promise you that.""Thank you, Jarl Ravencrone." Virwen said.
Oh, right. Fasendil said something about her being a Seer. Huh.
"Tell Fasendil that there was no Daedric Prince involved in the betrayal you all faced. Tell him I told him to rest easy in that regard." She smiled, leaning back in her chair. "The Gods have their eyes on you. They want you to succeed in this venture. Take that knowledge as you will.""Thank you." Estormo said, trying not to frown. Does that mean they'll get involved directly? Could get messy."Now go. Take your time returning to your homes. You have the time right now to rest. Do not squander it." She turned her head, whispering something to her Housecarl and Estormo carefully stepped back, tugging on Virwen's hand, turning with her and heading for the door, eager to put Hjaalmarch behind them.