General:Loranna's RP/Hearthfire Hearthfires

Book Information
Source:	Elder Scrolls Forum
Archived Link:	lorannarp.pbworks.com
Book Date:	3E 429
Writer(s):	Ted Peterson
Publication Date:	September 2005
Up	Loranna's RP

This archival work is dedicated to Loranna Pyrel, who passed away in early 2023. Rest in peace, friend. — Rock

Loranna's RP Campaign 11:
Hearthfire Hearthfires

Hearthfire Hearthfires was the eleventh campaign of the Loranna's RP series.

This page exists only to record the posts of Tedders, who was the only developer to participate in the roleplay. Not all concepts presented are original to Tedders' posts, as replies are built off of replies, and the original concepts of other roleplayers are frequently referenced in his content. For proper citation context, consult the archived forum threads.

Sheogorath

The carriage stopped suddenly. "Sorry, gentlemen," the driver said. "Royal carriage coming through."

King Gothryd, Queen Aubk-i, and their four children, Lysandus, Camaron, Akorithi, and Mynisera, bumped past. In the back of the carriage was Nulfaga, the King's grandmother. The people in the streets looked in wonder and most of them cheered. Even living in the capitol city, it was rare to see the entire royal family together.

Sheogorath

Goranthir arrived at the palace on his own, in his fashionable plum-colored surcoat and matching short cape. It had taken him some time to find the gifts he was looking for -- one for the bride and groom, one for his hostess Allerleirauh -- and to have them properly wrapped. He hoped they would like them.

He, together with most everyone at the palace, bowed low when the royal family entered their home.

Sheogorath

King Gothryd and Queen Aubk-i greeted the guests already assembled at the palace as they made their way to their private apartments. Now was not the time for audiences and petitions. They would bless the couple during the ceremony, but wait until then to make a reappearance.

The children, however, played tag with one another among the crowd. The guards kept a watchful eye on them, as did their great grandmother Nulfaga. All knew of her terrible power, and slight grip on sanity, and few spoke to her more than a few words of polite greeting.

Sheogorath

Goranthir spotted Allerleirauh before any of the rest, and bowed to her. "I have something for you," he said. "It's nothing much, but I hope you'll like it."

In a little bone box was a spool made of pearl that appeared to be without thread until you looked at it carefully, and then you saw the translucent fibers. It was Thalmir silk thread from Valenwood. Goranthir didn't know much about sewing, but he knew that when his mother Morgiah liked a well-crafted gown, she looked to the seams and made mention of the Thalmir silk. It was invisible in clothing, but strong enough to repair leather armor.

Sheogorath

OOC -- For those of you who did not play Daggerfall, it should be noted that a permanent Dispel Magicka effect is on the palace.

Sheogorath

"I only know what Tris has told me," Goranthir said. "But I saw you sewing when we came to Solunastra, so I assumed that was a hobby of yours. I wouldn't say I have any great insight."

Sheogorath

"Well, there was so much in the book," Goranthir blushed a bit. "But I did pay attention to Tris and Loranna's stories, and you figure prominently in both ... I did not know you worked for my mother," he paused. "But don't take offense. She never speaks much of her time in Wayrest."

Sheogorath

"She is the same, I'd imagine," Goranthir said with an uncomfortable smile. "They say the women in my family are like the Aedra, and remain the same from birth to death. But I would disagree with your guess about her feelings. Nothing she has or wants is accidental. She wouldn't have a husband or children if she did not plan it."

Sheogorath

"I'm sorry, I don't understand," Goranthir said, looking at Allerleirauh, trying to understand what she was saying. "I thought you said she couldn't picture herself with a loving husband and beautiful children?"

This was a strange conversation, not one he was expecting to have. He did not think Allerleirauh spoke in riddles like Arynel. Was this a test?

Sheogorath

Goranthir took a moment to respond. "Oh, I think I understand. I think my mother's reality is better than she would have expected. There were troubles with having a Dunmer Queen on the throne of Firsthold, but they were overcome. For the most part. There's still plenty of prejudice against Dunmer, and the children of Dunmer, in the royal court. But my father adores her, that much is certain."

Sheogorath

Goranthir burst out laughing. This was a most peculiar conversation, and that was his peculiar response. "For the last eighteen months since leaving Firsthold, my reality has been much improved, thank you. If I've passed this test of yours, it will be better yet."

Sheogorath

"Ah, I see, well, that's worse," Goranthir sighed, but his eyes looked exactly like his mother and grandmother's. He seemed to be deciding policy himself, though he wasn't saying so. "I have no tragedies to speak of. The unhappiness of my childhood was very banal by all standards. My cousin is heir to the throne, so I am at best a spare prince, and when my mother realized that I did not have an interest in fighting for a place of power, she turned her attention to more interesting matters. My sister is more like her, and she is the favorite."

Sheogorath

Goranthir chuckled though his eyes showed he was still on guard. "From what I've heard of you, I would be disappointed if our conversation were about the clemency of the weather."

Sheogorath

"Indeed, excuse me a moment, my lady," Goranthir said to Allerleirauh, turning to embrace Tris, whispering. "It's a good thing I brought her a present or that might've been awkward."

Sheogorath

"She said she worked for my mother," Goranthir said softly and then chuckled a little. "I don't blame her for not trusting me given that association."

Goranthir looked to Ciel, and knew who he was from the start. He introduced himself. "Goranthir of Firsthold, Sir Ciel. I am glad to make your acquaintance at last."

Sheogorath

Update

Goranthir, son of King Reman and Queen Morgiah of Firsthold, is at the wedding, in a very fashionable, bespoke plum-colored surcoat and short cape. The handsome young ranger has just had a most peculiar interview with Allerleirauh, and he's not sure what she has on her mind.

Sheogorath

"It isn't polite to stick out your tongue in polite society," said a six-year-old Redguard girl solemnly, though she had just moments before been running and giggling through the crowd herself.

Sheogorath

"And you, sir," the little girl cutseyed. "You know a man just addressed me as 'Your Majesty'? Like I was a queen?"

"You're not," said her brother emerging from the crowd. "You're a goblin."

"Am not!"

Sheogorath

"I've seen a monkey!' said the little girl excitedly. "He came with some Bosmer circus people last year. Mynisera cried because he was so ugly."

"Not like you," said the little boy. "You're pretty, but your eyes are ... funny."

He knew that wasn't the right word. Her eyes were different from what he was used to, but he knew too that his skin was different from his father's and other Bretons. He hoped she wouldn't think he was being mean.

Sheogorath

Mynisera stuck out her tongue at her brother.

"You do that again and I'll bite you!" he said sternly.

"That's how they say 'hello' in Monkey talk!" the princess said with authority.

He ran at her, and she fled, yelling, "Grandma! Cam's trying to bite me!"

Sheogorath

"Grandma!" Mynisera yelled, running through the alarmed crowd, pursued by her brother Camaron. "Cam's trying to bite me!"

Nulfaga, ninety-seven years old, let the little girl hide in her ragged gown and faced Camaron with a glare which would have made a knight tremble. Camaron stopped and looked at his grandmother.

"If he bites you, I shall bite him back," the old Dowager Queen said, narrowing her eyes. "I shall eat him up in two bites, and then I will chew on him until instead of a little boy, he is nothing but boneless goo."

"And then what will you do?" Camaron asked wide eyed.

"And then I will vomit up that goo, and stomp on it until it is a paste and then I will roll it up until it is a ball of little boy, and I will throw that out the window."

The crowd nearby tried not to stare at the interchange, although a few of the more delicate lads and ladies looked a little green.

"And then what will you do?" Camaron asked, beginning to giggle.

"I will roll that ball down a hill covered by shards of glass ..."

Sheogorath

"I feel like I already know you well through Tris," Goranthir grinned, though in fact he also remembered well seeing a sad, ghostly version of Ciel in Arkay's sphere. He banished that from his mind.

Sheogorath

Goranthir went to take his seat, near the back of the room, giving closer friends and family the more optimum positions.

Sheogorath

The royal family smiled on the ceremony. Even the rambunctuous children were on their best behavior, with the exception of little Mynisera who fidgeted a bit in her great grandmother's lap.

Sheogorath

Goranthir liked parties, but weddings -- like funerals, coronations, and other ceremonies -- tended to leave him cold. There was no lack of artifice and pomp in Firsthold.

Sheogorath

"Shh," Goranthir hissed. Really, he thought, not seeing what was happening from his vantage point, can't conversations about what pie was going to be served wait? On Summerset, wedding ceremonies lasted a half a day and no one whispered.

Sheogorath

The Royal Family stood as did all in the congregation who knew a little about etiquette (and those who did not risked the glare of the royal guard stationed throughout the palace).

Queen Aubk-i spoke, holding her husband's hand. Her other hand touched her belly, which seemed a little plump, as if she might be expecting a fifth child, though she was now in her mid 40s.

"Our blessings on this happy occasion, this union by love. May you find peace and contentment in one another, and may all who witness this ceremony find inspiration and joy in it as well."

"Now I order you to give a loud hail to the happy couple, and then to drink, eat, and be merry," said King Gothryd with a wide smile over his graying beard.

Sheogorath

Goranthir had cheered with the rest of the group, as it seemed the thing to do.

Princess Mynisera's cry was the loudest of any, though it sounded a bit like "HAIL HAIL HAIL HAIL HAIL!" as she had forgotten the name of the couple entirely. Nulfaga put a hand over her mouth or the "Hails" would have continued indefinitely.

Sheogorath

She was wearing a rather non-descript but tight green gown, the sort of thing that made her look like one of the crowd, which is as she intended. If one looked at her closer, one would notice that the gown was not a dress at all, but a suit with pants legs such as a man would wear, but loose. Perfect for someone to move in quickly.

Kethiah saw Isidor a moment before he saw her. "Are those for me?" she smiled at the flowers.

Sheogorath

"You too," she said, taking the flowers and dropping them to the ground. "It's a lovely thought, but I don't like dead things. Here's a better way."

She grabbed him by the collar of his cape, and kissed him deeply.

Sheogorath

"Be careful with the wig," Kethiah laughed, adjusting her black tresses. "I'll find you later, lover, don't worry about that. Right after I kill someone. Don't worry, I won't do it here ..."

She disappeared into the crowd.

Sheogorath

Nulfaga moved through the party like a person in another place, speaking slightly to the left of people, sometimes addressing them by their mother or father's name. She said something to a rather pompous countess which caused the woman to leave the party in a huff, but no one heard what it was.

Her ragged dress was voluminous on either side of her frame, and she had ten feet, the two pairs of each side of her looking like children's shoes.

"I was looking for your grandchildren, your majesty," said Goranthir on seeing her.

"Well, you're out of luck, Reman, for I've eaten them all."

There were giggles under the robe.

Sheogorath

"I had quite a nasty run in with a bunch of spirits in Arkay's realm," Goranthir added, joining the group.

Sheogorath

"Even some animals wonder about the world beyond," Goranthir said. "I think it makes them more interesting than the ones who are simply concerned with food and sex and survival."

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "Well, if I ever walk into that trap or any other, Shaka, I want you there to help me."

Sheogorath

"That sounds like a relatively rare occurance," said Goranthir. "Far more often, it's a child dying of the plague, or a noble cut down by an assassin's blade ... I think few people welcome death."

Sheogorath

"Thank you," said Goranthir, looking at Arynel, trying to figure out if he was making fun of him. "I didn't call myself wise though. I just said what I think. The Psijics would say that the dead are more important than the living, that they change our world in ways we can't imagine. I've never embraced that philosophy though."

Sheogorath

"Who does?" Goranthir laughed. "Maybe we weren't meant to know, and that's the charm of life."

Sheogorath

Goranthir began to smile too. "My pristine reputation could stand with a bit of tarnish," he said, and then paused as she continued talking. The smile on his face slipped away. "There is never a good time for secrets. What can you tell me?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir blinked. He took a step back while he tried to understand. Allerleirauh looked blurry to him all of the sudden, and his feet didn't seem to be on solid ground.

He almost fell, but caught himself, grabbing one of the tree peonies for support.

"I don't know what I was expecting you to say," he said unsteadily. "But not that."

Sheogorath

"I believe you, of course I believe you, why would you lie?" Goranthir said, giving up the fight with gravity and falling to the ground in a seated position. He had Trust after all, perhaps too much. He laughed a little darkly. "What mother but mine would have made such a bargain? I know of Mannimarco. He was the horror of Firsthold before ... my mother came ..."

He looked very young now, not at all the king, not even a 16-year-old boy. "What is going to happen? Do you know that too?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir sat on the bed in the spare room. Nothing in it felt real to him. There was the smell of mold and dust everywhere.

"I know that," Goranthir nodded. "That is the only thing I know. If Mannimarco didn't take me on birth ..." It was difficult to breath. "If he didn't take me on birth, then maybe things have changed? I must go to Firsthold and tell my mother ... She did this, and she must undo it ..."

Sheogorath

"I desire not to be the tool of Mannimarco, Morgiah, or anyone else," Goranthir said quietly but with anger. "I desire to do what I can do without putting my friends in danger. And I do desire to hear my mother say what you have said for her, that she would not do this again, because she loves me."

Sheogorath

"No," Goranthir began to say No, I should go alone but that struck him as idiotic, so he nodded and managed a smile as he changed the 'no' into "No one stronger, no ... But I might ask Tris to come too."

Sheogorath

Goranthir, the son of King Reman and Queen Morgiah of Firsthold, grandson of the legendary Queen Barenziah, is at the wedding. Specifically he is in a spare room, recovering from some news Allerleirauh has just told him. His mother (as anyone who played Daggerfall will attest) married his father after making a deal with Mannimarco, the King of Worms, to give her first born to him in exchange for the wedding.

Thus, Goranthir has just received news that his soul belongs to the God of the Necromancers. Allerleirauh has said she will go with him to Firsthold to talk to Queen Morgiah about it, and Goranthir has said that he might ask Tris to go too.

Sheogorath

"I understand," said Goranthir, and even if he didn't, he felt he did. "I think we should tell everyone this story. It may be their story too."

Sheogorath

Overheard at the wedding party:

"My dear, you're the first person here I know!"

"Well, if you invite everyone, no one of importance will show up ... Well, excepting the King and Queen, I suppose ..."

"I thought I saw the Countess of Ivytyde here a moment ago ..."

"Nulfaga said something that offended her and she left."

"Horrible woman. Completely mad. She shouldn't be around those children at all, and they seem inseparable."

"Well, she did raise Gothryd. Mynisera was too busy ..."

"She didn't go mad until Lysandus was killed."

"You have a point, my dear."

Sheogorath

The smallest of ones, the royal children, the Princes Lysandus and Camaron and the Princess Akorithi burst out from under their grandmother Nulfaga's skirts, rushing toward P'Rassha with squeals of delight. The youngest, three-year-old Princess Mynisera clung to Nulfaga's cloak, frightened of the giant cat.

Sheogorath

"Lythanduth," said the Prince fearlessly, who had a bit of a lisp.

"He's the heir to the kingdom," one of the nearby nobles said, color draining from his face. "Please do be careful."

Sheogorath

Prince Camaron and Princess Akorithi introduced themselves politely to P'Rassha.

"And that'th Mynithera, she's thscared," he laughed.

"Am not!" Mynisera cried, belying her point by burying her head in her great grandmother's cloak.

Sheogorath

"And then what?" asked Mynisera, peeking out from the skirts.

Sheogorath

"A witch, like you grandma," Mynisera said to Nulfaga.

"Probably not as pretty," the crone laughed. "Now, shh, let P'Rassha finish."

Sheogorath

Elsewhere in Daggerfall

Grylla, the Countess of Ivytyde, was in a foul mood when she returned to her mansion. An abominable party and that witch talking to her like that! With the Countess's wealth, she shouldn't have to put up with that ... Her children tried to get their hands on that, but she much preferred giving them their small allowances.

She slapped her servants when they tried to undress her, and told them that she would do it herself.

They found her dead two hours later. It seemed appropriate that when a mean-spirited woman such as the Countess decided to kill herself, she would do it in a vicious way, cutting not only her wrists, but her throat.

The will, written by her late husband, generous to their children and the servants was uncontested.

Sheogorath

The royal children and Nulfaga, the Queen Dowager, applauded.

"A fine tale, tailed one," she said. "You do sing for your supper, don't you?"

Sheogorath

The children curtseyed or bowed to Loranna.

Nulfaga grinned toothlessly. "Dres Loranna Pyrel of Ald Raathim you are."

Sheogorath

"Not at all, not at all, not a bit, not at all," Nulfaga shook her head. "The pleasure of the dance was mine. There are more thunderstorms in your future, my dear girl."

Sheogorath

The children had run off, following another guest who had caught their fancy, and Nulfaga was distracted.

"Oh, I was just being a silly old woman, dear girl. I told her I was surprised to see her with her throat and her wrists closed. Immediately, I realized my mistake, but not before she had gotten offended and left. When you reach my age, you sometimes think backwards, and I was three hours in the future, you know," The Dowager Queen patted Loranna's hand. "Please excuse me, my dear."

She slipped off, following her great grandchildren.

Sheogorath

"I'll be down in a moment," said Goranthir.

When Allerleirauh left, he went to the mirror in the room. He could almost swear he saw the mark himself.

Sheogorath

Goranthir stood in the doorway to the Great Hall, letting the guests file past him. He looked to the table with his friends on it, and just watched them for a while.

Sheogorath

Goranthir thought of what might have been watching him, biding its time, perhaps waiting for this moment.

It took a conscious effort from Goranthir to go to the table, and take a seat next to Tris.

Sheogorath

Goranthir nodded and smiled slightly, listening to Tris. He wanted to be taken away from his own thoughts, but the fact was, he couldn't. These were real people with problems and joys, and he couldn't share any of that until he cleared his mind.

"Tris," he said at last. He didn't whisper, but his voice was low, serious. Most people were too preoccupied with the meal to notice, and whispering always draws attention. "I have to talk to you about something. It can't wait. "

Sheogorath

"I'm sorry if this ruins the dinner, but I need your help," Goranthir said, keeping his voice steady and matter-of-fact. "It seems ... it seems that Mannimarco, the King of Worms who may well now be the God of Worms, has laid a claim on me since birth. Allerleirauh says that before I was born, she acted as go-between for my mother and Mannimarco, and she knows that my mother agreed to give me to him in exchange for making her Queen of Firsthold. Slyvos apparently sees the necromantic mark on me that says ... I belong to him."

Goranthir wouldn't let Tris interrupt, and continued on. "I am going to Firsthold to talk to my mother to see what it means and what can be done ... Allie's coming with me ..."

Sheogorath

Goranthir couldn't help it. He laughed and wiped his eyes. "I know you will. I just wanted ... to fill you in on our travel plans."

Sheogorath

"I have no answers at all," Goranthir said. Just talking to Tris made him feel better, and his face looked like himself again. "But I'd sooner tackle a God than Morgiah."

Sheogorath

"I already have it," Goranthir said, squeezing Tris's shoulder.

There were questions to be answered for certain. But Goranthir ate instead. And the food tasted pretty good.

Sheogorath

"I'm sorry to interrupt," said Goranthir, happy to interrupt. "But it's been months since your last job, and years since you got a writ ... So your last jobs have been unsanctioned?"

Sheogorath

"Did I say there was anything wrong?" Goranthir laughed. "Nowhere except for Morrowind does assassination work like that. Everyone else uses the Dark Brotherhood, and damns the writs. I'm sorry, Anya, I was just curious. Didn't mean to make you feel bad."

Sheogorath

Goranthir saw no reason to add to the argument, but he didn't look at Falco with any amusement.

Sheogorath

Goranthir stared at Isidor. Wasn't he demanding Falco's head just a couple days before?

Sheogorath

Goranthir raised his glass: "Here, here."

Sheogorath

"I would say that no one by that definition is self known," said Goranthir.

Sheogorath

"Her appetite's improved, but ..." Goranthir stared. "Do you know her well, Loranna? Can you ask what's happened?"

Sheogorath

"Who I can't understand is Isidor," Goranthir said to Teleran under his breath. "In Ald Raathim, he was ready to kill Falco for insulting him and stealing from him. Now he takes up for him, and even insults Anya for insulting him ... What could have changed?"

Sheogorath

"Probably because you haven't given us a better topic of conversation," Goranthir grinned. "Like when we will be attending your wedding ... Did you find out what was wrong with your friend?"

Sheogorath

"The food is nice," Goranthir agrees. "I am afraid I'm being spoiled on my first visit to High Rock ... her family must be extremely sensitive if you managed to offend them in so short a time."

Sheogorath

"Would you like me to have a word with it?" Goranthir said, chattering a bit in the ferret tongue.

Sheogorath

"Famous last words," Goranthir smiled, and stood up. He bowed to the table, bowed to the Royal Family, bowed to the wedding table, and went in the roundabout way to the courtyard.

"Hello?" he called out in ferret.

Sheogorath

"I had heard there was a ferret out here, and I never miss an opportunity to speak to one," Goranthir chattered back. And that was true. Among animals, ferrets were one of the more amusing conversationalists. They inevitably had stories of getting into some mischief or another. "My name is Goranthir."

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "We saw her looking frightened, but we thought it must be something else out here that did it. I'm sorry, is your old master gone?"

Sheogorath

"Your first master and the man in black are inside the castle, do you think?" Goranthir chattered. "I can look for them if you want, A'acavar. Or, do you want me to tell the nice lady Maranda anything?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir bade the ferret farewell in his language, and returned to the Hall. If Maranda were so embarassed by having a friend approach her at her table, a stranger bearing greetings from a ferret would likely produce apoplexy. He returned to his table. There would be a time to talk to her soon enough.

Sheogorath

"I've just had a delightful chat with a little fellow named A'acavar," Goranthir smiled, taking his seat. "He thinks your pal Maranda is a very nice lady, and he feels bad about scaring her earlier. He was in the area looking for his first master, and he caught the scent around here, together with the smell of a 'bad man' in black. They're not in the castle, but apparently they're nearby. Anyhow, I am to thank Maranda for him for smuggling out food, but I think I'll wait until a more appropriate time ..."

Sheogorath

"I know," Goranthir chuckled. "Surprised me too. But that's what he says ... He went up her skirt apparently ..."

Sheogorath

"It was a nice little break from other darker conversations," said Goranthir, stirring his fork around his food and then asking. "Loranna, could you use the mirror to ask Kallen to tell my crew to bring my ship around to port in Firsthold?"

Sheogorath

"Thank you," Goranthir said, kissing Loranna on the cheek. "Tris, Allerleirauh, and I will be going there after the wedding ... I should tell you why ... I owe you that."

Goranthir pulled close to Loranna and told her everything about Morgiah and Mannimarco's pact.

Sheogorath

Goranthir took her hand. "That's what we intend to find out, what if anything can be done. I wouldn't know about any of this without you and Slyvos. Until I have the information from my mother, I don't know whether I am putting you and the others in danger by my mere presence ..."

Sheogorath

"No one here is all bad or all good," Goranthir said, turning back from Loranna. "But I would say that Falco has no interest in being a part of our group. I think it's fine for you to forgive him, though he has not asked for it. But when you insult your friend Anya because you don't like to hear your friend Falco being insulted, I wonder what you're thinking."

Sheogorath

"The problem is that I'm going away for a while," Goranthir said. "And when I come back, I would rather not hear that Falco robbed you blind because you forgave him when he did not ask for it or deserve it. I like you, Isidor, and I'm glad you're loyal to your friends. That is a noble quality, no question. But when I took Trust in the sphere of Zenithar, I think we should have found for you a little dose of Doubt."

Sheogorath

Goranthir looked to Shaka and Isidor.

"This is too public a place to discuss it, but Loranna can tell you what's happened later when there are fewer to overhear it. It's a personal matter, but it may turn out to a political one as well," he was thinking not only of not wanting to talk about it in front of Falco, who he did not trust, but also the other guests at the party. "But Tris, Allerleirauh, and I are going to Summerset for a while. I don't know when we'll be back."

Sheogorath

"Thank you," Goranthir smiled at his friends. "And you know ... damn!"

He turned to Loranna. "I should have touched your mirror so I could talk to you while I'm away ..."

Sheogorath

"That's true, I forget how close everything in Tamriel is when you use the Guild," Goranthir smiled. "I'll do that after the speeches, I wouldn't want to be rude ... But everyone, particularly Isidor if he's going to Skyrim after this, should use the mirror as well, so we know if they're in trouble ..."

Sheogorath

"I know, I'm afraid I'll slow you down," Goranthir laughed.

Sheogorath

Goranthir ran to follow Tris and Allerleirauh, but was held back by a guard. He struggled to free himself.

King Gothryd stood up. "Be calm, people."

To his guards who did not act on Lord Landon's orders, he said. "Go see what has happened."

Sheogorath

Gothryd on hearing from his captain walked to the table where the Biennies and Lord Landon sat.

He calmly told them all.

Sheogorath

The King looked at Vren. "Sir." was all he said. He was unaccustomed to having people whisper to one another in his presence, and his eyes delivered that message well.

"Go to the assembly room through the door," Gothryd told those at the table. "We will announce what has happened."

Sheogorath

"Esteemed guests," said Gothryd to the hall. His voice cut through all chatter without yelling. "Please remain in your chairs. There has been a tragedy. A guest of the wedding party has apparently taken her own life. Obviously, we must conduct a brief investigation before you are free to return to your homes. I must ask that you limit your movements so my guards are free to speak with you quickly and efficiently. I apologize that this is how such a joyous occasion ends."

Sheogorath

Nulfaga guided the four frightened children to the captain of the guards, who escorted them out of the room, before returning to Doll.

"There's only one thing to do, dear girl," Nulfaga took Doll's hand, and they went into the assembly room behind the main hall.

"My condolences on your loss," the old woman said to the grieving family as fireballs leapt at Maranda's date.

Sheogorath

"That was for whispering in front of my grandson," Nulfaga said. "Dreadful manners, those things."

She turned to Maranda. "A pretty girl like you should be able to find a nice boy."

Sheogorath

The King and Queen looked into the assembly room.

"Grandmother," Gothryd shook his head.

"Let's never have another wedding here again," Queen Aubk-i sighed.

The King returned to the main hall.

"Nothing to be alarmed about," the King announced. "No one has been hurt."

Sheogorath

"Takes one to know one," the Dowager Queen said.

One of the guards in the room went to the courtyard to check.

Sheogorath

"I have a question as well," said the captain of the guards to Maranda. "You seem nonchalant about your date being a servant of Oblivion. Shall we talk in private?"

Sheogorath

"That would be a little more convincing if you had begun with that," said the captain, as he and another of his guards moved down the hall.

"Will you be requiring the tongs, sir?" asked the guard.

"Oh, I don't think so."

Sheogorath

They disappeared into a room at the end of the hall, the captain saying, "Don't cry, my dear. Not yet."

Sheogorath

"Thank you," said Gothryd, looking at Allerleirauh as if he might recognize her. But there was too much else on his mind. He went to talk to his guards.

ooc -- Outta here for a couple hours. The King will obviously release the Hall once the situation has been understood and have his soldiers search for the missing parties. Go ahead and RP that whenever you want to.

Sheogorath

Goranthir finished his interview with the guards, which was very brief since he didn't know the presumed victims and missing persons, or any one at the wedding really except through his friends at the VIP guest tables.

He went over to join his friends. "I guess I'm free to go."

Sheogorath

"Should we tell the Queen?" Goranthir asked. "Her brother's king there."

Sheogorath

The captain of the guards returned from the hall. The chief interrogator, with a complete set of tongs and other toys, was better at getting information than he was.

"How many people have been interviewed so far?" he asked his lieutenant.

"About fifty."

"Out of?"

"We're not clear how many people were here at the party, as casual as the invitations were ..."

"Wonderful," the captain shook his head. "We don't know if anyone else escaped ..."

He listened to Allerleirauh's request, nodded, and was back in a moment with the Queen.

"I was just checking on the children," she said. "I'm so sorry such a nice party turned out this way. What can I do for you?"

Sheogorath

The captain of the guard had been talking with his lieutenant during this interchange.

"Of course your assistance would be most appreciated," said Aubk-i. "I can send word to my brother Lhotun to coordinate with you. He could have some of his guards meet you at the Mages Guild."

"Your Majesty, it would be best if this were handled by Daggerfall," the captain remarked.

"After the culprit is caught, he or she may be tried here," the Queen said.

Gothryd had joined the conversation at the end of it. "It does sound like we need international cooperation on this."

Sheogorath

"Did you have anything more you needed to ask of Lady Allerleirauh or her company?" Aubk-i turned to her captain.

"No, your Majesty," said the captain, not showing much of the displeasure he felt at having the affair turned over these adventurers and the court of Sentinel.

"Then I will contact my my brother, thank you for your assistance on this," said the Queen, leaving the room.

"There will be a representative of the crown meeting you at the Mages Guild," said Gothryd. "I would suggest telling them to seal the harbor after the young lady's ship sets anchor."

Sheogorath

"That family," said Gothryd with some anger. "Does have to make amends to us. If he wishes to do it that way, it would be a good start."

Sheogorath

"Of course," replied Gothryd. "Go with Kynareth blessing your speed."

Sheogorath

Moments after Anya, Shaka, and Isidor had left the Mages Guild, a dozen guards bearing the moon symbol of the royal house of Sentinel appeared. Queen Aubk-i had apparently sent word to her brother King Lhotun of Sentinel as she had promised a few hours earlier.

"I'm sorry we're late, Commander Barene at your service," said the tall, imposing Redguard who led the group. "His Majesty told me to give you any assistance required to track down the refugees, though I am afraid I was not given more than the barest information about what has happened. Only that a murder has occured, distressing His Majesty's sister in Daggerfall, and the killer or killers are fleeing towards Sentinel."

Sheogorath

"If she's landing anywhere along the coast of Hammerfell, it will be in Sentinel territory," the Commander said. "Do you have a description of the ship? There are literally hundreds of them all along the coastline at any moment. What do you need in a guide? We all know the kingdom well ..."

Sheogorath

"It was an extremely foolish choice of a ship to steal nevertheless," Commander Barene smiled. "Like a horsethief stealing a pure white stallion. The flagship is hard to miss. Someone has seen it, and thought it extraordinary enough to tell someone, I can guarantee that."

He sent one of his men to check with the royal Spymaster.

(An hour later)

"The ship passed Betony an hour ago," the guard reported. "Heading south east."

"The Cybiades off the coast is a haven for smugglers and Daedra worshippers," said the Commander with an expression that said what he thought of both of those.

Sheogorath

OOC

Re: The Cybiades

http://www.jceason.dircon.co.uk/dagger/dfgprov.htm

It's location 42 ...

And the specifics on Cybiades, where there is one dungeon on the island and that's it:

http://www.jceason.dircon.co.uk/dagger/province/cybiades.htm

Sheogorath

"Merric, you've been to the dungeon there," said Commander Barene to one of his men, equally tall and imposing, with a shaven head and many scars.

"A couple of times," Merric said. "It was flooded the last time, filled with slaughterfish and dreugh ... And smugglers along the coast. Even if your quarry isn't there, we can get other little locations from them if we're sufficiently ... persuasive."

"Take the Yarling Dawn," said the Commander. "It's the fastest ship in the harbor. You can get to the Cybiades in a hour."

Sheogorath

"We'll be careful and won't hit your pet," Merric nodded. He did not seem like the type who smiled even when he was amused.

ooc -- Outta here for an hour or so. Feel free to RP with Merric taking them to the Cybiades w/o me.

Sheogorath

Sentinel

Goranthir appeared in the Mages Guild in Sentinel, a fresh but healing laceration across his nose. He talked briefly to the magister about who had met his friends, and then made his way up to the palace to talk to King Lhotun.

Sheogorath

The servants were in the process of cleaning up from the party, and the place was a bit more chaotic than the usual well-ordered court.

"What is the purpose of this audience?" asked the castellian.

Tris could actually see Gothryd in the audience chamber with one of his councillors. He seemed in a good mood. He was laughing.

Sheogorath

"My apologies, my lord, I did not recognize you," said the castellian, which was scarcely surprising as he had never met Tris before. In truth, he had met hardly anyone. Gothryd put him in place whenever he wanted someone who would not let anyone in.

He did let Tris in, however, announcing him to the King. "Your Majesty, news about the bride."

Gothryd turned to Tris, the laughter dropping from him but the smile remaining. His councilor, a rather plump young man about Tris's age, also turned with a polite smile.

Sheogorath

"That is very good news," the King replied. "My soldiers and Lhotun's men were put on the lookout for Selvia ever since the incident, but I will let them know how it has progressed. I am grateful for you helping us with this embarrassing situations, and I'm sure Landon and Lyssia must be delighted to be reunited, showering you with appreciation and gold. I do hope that they're wiser with this marriage than they were with the guest list."

"Excuse me, sir," said the councillor, who had been looking intently at Tris. "May I have your name? You look very familiar to me. Did you go to university at Gwilym?"

Sheogorath

"Laurent Lyonswurst," the young man smiled, and shook Tris's hand with his own meaty one. The name did sound familiar. The Lyonswursts were a prominent family in Wayrest, though most of them were arrested by Elysana a few years after becoming Queen, as they had been sympathetic to Helseth's claim to the throne.

Sheogorath

"My wife is dead set against letting the party continue," Gothryd nodded. "She considers it the height of bad taste to continue a celebration after a murder and kidnapping. It will take some time for her to forgive the Biennies for making such a spectacle in our house ... But I agree that I was looking forward to the dancing too."

"Would you like me to speak with her, Your Majesty?" asked Laurent.

"Would you?" Gothryd laughed. "In the mood she's in, I could use a diplomat's expertise."

Laurent said to Tris, "It was good seeing you again. Perhaps we could see one another again? I'm at Lyonswurst House."

The "House" was an enormous palace of great luxury and questionable taste outside of the city.

The councillor bowed to the King and went to do his diplomatic duty.

Sheogorath

Gothryd laughed long and loud. "So we had daedra, murderers, kidnappers, Wayrest spies, and thieves at the wedding. Aubk-i is going to lock the doors and we'll have to issue proclamations and edicts through the peephole. Thank you, Lord Gaerington. I confess that even if Laurent talks my wife into continuing the celebrations here, I may take you up on your offer to hold it at Solunastra."

Sheogorath

"Thank you, son," the King clapped Tris on the back. "I don't know better ways from worse ways, I only know my way. I would still prefer fewer daedra and thieves at my side. If you see Lyssia and Landon, tell them they can continue their celebrations here if they'd prefer that to Solunastra. But the security will be tighter -- I won't allow the Biennies to supply it on any level. If the party is filled with arsonists, child molesters, and necromancers this time, it'll be entirely my captain's fault."

Sheogorath

"Yes, go on," the King nodded. "Do be certain to emphasize that while I would be happy to host a party without great ceremony, and I have toleration for lack of etiquette at times, my tolerance for criminal activity under my roof is completely drained. I will not consider psychosis or kleptomania or loveable roguery an ample excuse, and my dungeons are very deep."

The expression on Gothryd's face emphasized his point.

The castellian coughed, indicating that the King has other matters to attend to.

"I don't want to end this pleasant interview on a threat," Gothryd smiled. "Please let the happy couple know that the celebration may continue with my blessings."

Sheogorath

"His Majesty asks that you wait for him here," said Lhotun's castellian.

Goranthir was there, in an interior courtyard, hissing at a bush.

Sheogorath

"Bear," Goranthir smiled, turning to Tris, his voice also modulated. "Really hungry and mean. I thought I could talk to him, but just because you can speak someone's language doesn't mean they'll like you ... I keep forgetting that ..."

A cobra slithered out from under the bush, and made his way out through a crack in the wall.

"He was bad-spirited too, but I pointed out that if he didn't leave, someone would probably get scared and kill him," he grinned. "How are you? Sorry to have missed out on the adventure. I got waylaid by someone else who needed help."

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "Far more satisfactory than yours, it sounds like. I was running late to get to the Guild because I wanted to check in with a friend in Firsthold to make sure my mother was in court. Wouldn't do to go all that way if she was on vacation in Alinor. Then, on the way, I ran into a fellow begging for help. Yes, it did involve a maiden fair, and she said thank you afterwards. Fancy that. So, where is everyone else?"

Sheogorath

"Ah, that's preferable to a bear maiden / bare maiden pun?" Goranthir grinned. "I'm sorry about missing the camels. I heard from my nurse they're actually pretty amusing creatures."

Sheogorath

"Yes, just to the outskirts, not to the court," Goranthir replied. "Did I tell you I asked the Akarvina to meet us there? They should be arriving in a couple days time, unless they run into trouble."

Sheogorath

"Don't give me too much credit," Goranthir smiled. "Every Altmer boy dreams of living on a boat. It's the island mentality."

Sheogorath

"If it makes you feel better, I'll tell other people I know what I'm doing," Goranthir smiled. "I do, kinda, sometimes ..."

Sheogorath

To those who make their way to the King's palace in Sentinel:

The palace of Sentinel was filled with candles that released a scent of spices as well as a warm golden glow. It was difficult to tell a guard from a noble, for both wore silk and inscrutable expressions. There was hardly a body, male or female, that wasn't slim, well-muscled, and showing considerably more flesh than their Breton neighbors. Still, the atmosphere of sex was subtle, more sensual than wanton.

The central courtyard was open to the sky, and shielded from the sun by canopies. Urns spilled over with orange and yellow flowers.

The King and his retinue lounged on silk pillows. He was not an exceptionally handsome man. His face was perhaps too friendly, still possessing the wide eyes and expressive mouth of his youth, though he was in his 30s. His hair was long, worn in coils ringed by gold.

"Have a seat and tell me of your adventures," he smiled.

Wine, water, and fruit was brought out by beautiful servers of both sexes.

Sheogorath

"We'll be serving meat in a moment, but in the meantime, perhaps my lord could try looking under a rock?" the girl smiled.

Sheogorath

The girl returned in a moment with a small bowl filled with berries in ichor. "We get this from the swamps on the coast. Most people don't like them, but Argonians say they remind them of home."

That was the attitude of all the servers. They were accomedating, quick to fulfill expectations, but never servile.

Sheogorath

"I was hoping they'd be as soon as my sister told me you were coming," Lhotun said. "I understand from Tris that this Selvia escaped?"

Sheogorath

"Oh damn," said the King with a wink. "I was hoping it would be something I hadn't experienced."

Sheogorath

Goranthir climbed down from a tree in the center of the courtyard. "She has lost her child, your majesty."

"Oh, that is very sad," Lhotun said, and his face showed honest sorrow. "I did not know."

"She'll begin her mourning song," Goranthir said. "She says it will be lovely."

And the previously silent nightingale did indeed begin to sing, and it was a song of mourning that spoke of joy and hope.

Goranthir smiled to his friends. "I'm sorry I missed your adventure," he rubbed the lacerations on his nose. "But you don't look the worse for wear."

S'reddit

"The loving couple," the King of Sentinel smiled. "Blessings of Arkay and Satakal be on you. How wise of you to invite a band of adventurers to your wedding feast. That foresight bodes well for your union."

S'reddit

"No," Lhotun chuckled. "But young Tris tells me he's talked my brother-in-law into letting the celebration continue there, so he can't be too cross. My sister on the other hand ... "

S'reddit

"All that is true," King Lhotun nodded his head. "And I do dearly love my little nieces and nephews. Am I understand that you," he looked to Maranda mildly. "Are the woman who brought the Daedra?"

S'reddit

"There, there, my dear," the King patted Maranda's hand. "Yes, it was extraordinarily foolish of you, but I'd imagine few gathered here have not been intolerably stupid at times. Life is full of woe, but we must not dwell upon it. Listen to the nightingale sing. She has lost her only child, the only one she is likely to ever have. And yet she sings of love."

S'reddit

"Would that they loved me as I love them," Lhotun smiled, pleased with Maranda's words.

S'reddit

The King was listening to the song too, and he turned to Allerleirauh, smiling, humming along to the bird's voice. "You were the one who found Arthago, weren't you?"

S'reddit

"Thank you," Goranthir laughs between his tears. "It's a happy song, really. The nightingale is telling us how beautiful her boy was, how he sings to the world now. But sometimes happy things make you cry too, don't they?"

S'reddit

"No, it merely took me a while to place your face, though it hasn't changed very much," the King took her hand. "It was a secret, of course, but then there was that book Night Falls On Sentinel, and all the world knows ... what happened in this happy court. You know, I think you are the last person to see me cry, more than twenty years ago ..."

S'reddit

"I don't flatter myself to think so," Lhotun replied, still smiling, though with some sadness. "I have tried. The one thing all effective Kings and Queens are, whether benevolent or tyrannical, is strong. My parents recognized that, and what they did ... is something I think other parents have done throughout history. I think I am a strong king, but I do not hate weakness."

S'reddit

Goranthir listened to the king and listened to Loranna, and with a last sniff, asked, "Does anyone here know a really dirty joke?"

S'reddit

Lhotun chuckled. "Go on."

S'reddit

The King and his retinue roared with laughter at the joke, many of them falling against their pillows, two of them caught in an unfortunate moment between swallows of wine, coughing and laughing simultaneously.

Goranthir laughed too. "Maranda, forgive me, I don't know you well, but I didn't guess you were funny."

S'reddit

"I predict you'll surprise yourself again," said King Lhotun, still chuckling.

The servers brought forth the promised meat, roasted and steaming, most of it very spicy in the Redguard tradition, but some milder varieties for the guests had been created as well. The servers described the food as they slivered off pieces of it, which were to be eaten, of course, by hand.

"You are all of course welcome to stay the night, if you'd like," the King of Sentinel said. "I can arrange companions to keep you warm too, if you'd like."

S'reddit

Ald'ruhn Secret Council Meeting

"Well, I'm dashed," Redoran Thumiare barked. "An alliance between Dres and the crown? That's like an alliance between fire and water."

"They are both beneath contempt," sniffed Redoran Aelma.

"On the matter of rebuilding our bases in Vvardenfell," Redoran Lelas said. "Of course some work should be done. Our relationship with the Temple remains our most important alliance. I only question how much should be done at what is on some level a hopeless cause. Vvardenfell will never rise again as it had been."

S'reddit

Goranthir, like any healthy 16-year-old, had also heard the King's suggestion and found it, and the first bite he had of the crusted peppered fish, too much for a moment. He coughed and grabbed for water. Meeting Tris's eyes, he had no doubt he was thinking of the same thing.

"No," he whispered, but couldn't help laughing. "Probably no."

S'reddit

"We should not be spending our time thinking of defenses, but offenses," said Redoran Thumiare. "If we strike now, we can eliminate the budding conspiracy of Helseth, House Dres, and House Telvanni before --"

"Don't forget House Hlaluu," Dres Aelma said. "They'll ally themselves with Helseth without much prodding."

Sheogorath

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, slept late. In his arms was Mapn-i, a beautiful girl with skin like ebony. They both were smiling in their sleep as the dawn light, difused by the silk curtains, touched their naked bodies.

Sheogorath

Goranthir, a big smile on his face, his hair slick from a bath, bounded into the room. "Good morning everyone!"

Sheogorath

"I can't find the words, it was --" Goranthir smiled even wider. "It can't be that good all the time, or people would do nothing else."

He also turned to Anya. It was sad that anyone was sad on a morning when he was so happy.

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed hard. "Yes, a life of happiness would be unbearable."

Goranthir jumped up and grabbed Tris in a hug. "Where were you last night?"

Sheogorath

"Well, I looked for you last night, I thought I needed some help," Goranthir blushed a little. "But ... I figured things out .."

Sheogorath

"Why are you sad?" she asked sleepily. "I don't like men to leave me sad. What can I do?"

Sheogorath

"I want you to!" Goranthir grabbed Tris's hand and brought him upstairs.

The girl was just getting dressed, heartbreakingly beautiful. She smiled at Tris, and gave Goranthir a kiss.

Goranthir picked up the candle. It was something Tris had seen before at the House of Kynareth. Its smell was strong, but after a few minutes of inhaling it, your entire body became charged, responding to the faintest breath or touch.

"I need to get more of these," Goranthir smiled, blushing again.

Sheogorath

"I told Isidor I could picture a life where one had sex all day long," Goranthir grinned. "And he thought that was appalling. Apparently he did not have as good of a time last night as I did."

The girl took the candle out of Goranthir's hand. "Your friend is right," her voice was like velvet. "Inhale the candle too much, and that is bad. You are sensitive enough already."

Sheogorath

"I - um shouldn't we be getting back to Daggerfall ..?" Goranthir began, but Mapn-i drew him to her, dropping her robe.

"Ten minutes more," she smiled, and winked at Tris.

Sheogorath

"I was born here to a courtesan," she smiled, her finger lightly touching up his arm. "My ancestress was Antonopath, the lead courtesan in the invading army of Ra Gada. My daughter will no doubt be a courtesan too."

Sheogorath

"Then I shall show you something new that only three people in Tamriel know how to do, as far as I've heard," she pulled him to her. "It is a technique taught by the sightless Orma of old Argonia who could only work by the sense of touch ..."

Sheogorath

Goranthir came downstairs, an even bigger smile on his face.

"When are we leaving?"

S'reddit

"I don't think you're stupid, Isidor, though you do tend to seek out advice and then not take it," Goranthir grinned. "But have you considered drinking less, if it bothers you?"

He had a glass of wine in his hand, and a eye for Lady Lelia, the new Countess of Ivytyde since her mother's recent suicide. A bright, vivacious girl in an ivory-colored gown. Goranthir took it on himself to introduce himself, mentioning that his black surcoat and cape clearly matched her outfit well.

Sheogorath

One of the king's servants handed Isidor a note.

"From a young gentleman to you, sir," he said.

Sheogorath

I couldn't help noticing you, sir, as clearly the handsomest man at the party, including the groom who seems a bit of a buttock. I hope you will take the time to meet me in a secluded corner by the tree peonies, so I might kiss you and 'get to know you better.'

Yours,
Sera Jeril Tryn

Sheogorath

The garden was meant for trysts, and most people knew it without having to be told. Several couples were already kissing in the shadows, or whispering words they could not say in public.

A very handsome young Dunmer lad with close-cropped hair and a well-trimmed mustache and beard stepped out from behind one of the trees.

"I see you got my note," he said, and though Isidor could see it was Kethiah, the change in voice and appearance was uncanny.

Sheogorath

"You Nords will follow anything warm-blooded, won't you?" Kethiah/Jeril said, pulling Isidor in for a kiss. The moustache and beard felt real, but her lips felt even more so.

Sheogorath

"I think we should go to my room at the tavern before you kiss my whiskers off," Kethiah laughed, keeping her voice low.

Sheogorath

"I know you disappeared after the first party. By the way, I had nothing to do with that poor fellow's hanging," Kethiah said. "So, what's on your mind?"

Sheogorath

"I see," said Kethiah in her own voice. In the shadows, and by her own will, it was difficult to tell what the expression on her face was. "Why did you want me to know this? What do you want from me?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir turned to his friend, smiling, trying to tell what Tris was thinking.

"I am," she said, offering her hand. She was pale but very pretty, the color of the dress actually gave her an ethereal quality. "Very pleased to meet you, sir."

Sheogorath

"I see," said Kethiah, and he could read her expression now. Anger and contempt. "You should see a healer. The prostitutes of Hammerfell are riddled with disease."

She turned to walk away.

Sheogorath

"Thank you," she smiled prettily. "I think some people consider it inappropriate, but I've never been to a party before, and I couldn't miss the opportunity to dance."

Sheogorath

She turned around, tears in her eyes. "Tell me again, what do you want from me?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir's eyebrows raised and he looked at the young Countess.

She sighed, and then seemed to notice someone over Tris's shoulder. "Yes, a true tragedy. Will you pardon me, gentlemen?"

"Definitely," Goranthir said, watching her go.

Sheogorath

She slapped him. Hard.

"My happiness and your existence or non-existence have nothing in common," she hissed. "I told you that I wanted to get to know you better, and I have. You are confusing truth with honesty. I do not require much from my men, but strength and respect. You have shown me neither."

She disappeared into the shadows.

Sheogorath

"I was just flirting with her, Tris, you do that all the time with everyone," Goranthir smiled. "Have I asked how discreet you're being with my grandmother?"

If the questions were serious, his tone was not.

Sheogorath

"That's why I asked about the noble girl Barenziah," Goranthir frowned. "I'm going to make mistakes, Tris. Just like you."

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed, rubbing Tris on the back. "And I was acting like someone's brat. I do value your advice, but I tend to snap back when it sounds too lecturey. Anyhow, what do I know? You've had hundreds of affairs, and I've had sex exactly once," With a smile he corrected himself. "I mean, with one person, thrice."

Sheogorath

"Don't talk about yourself that way," Goranthir shook his head. "I don't know all about sex, or what it is for -- what you use it for, sometimes -- besides pleasure and procreation. But I won't have bad things said about you, even by you ... There is something we should do before going to Firsthold ..."

Sheogorath

"We need costumes or at least masks," Goranthir said. "It's the masque season in Firsthold. Everyone will be wearing them."

Sheogorath

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, is at the party. He is talking to his friend Tris about it being Masque season in Firsthold, and the need to get costumes.

Sheogorath

"Yes, she will," Goranthir smiled, thinking about it. "I was thinking about going as Jagar Tharn. Might be appropriate."

Sheogorath

"I just need to find a partner you won't approve of, again," Goranthir laughed, and then saw Allerleirauh. "For example ..."

He approached Allerleirauh and with a simple but respectful bow, said. "You look beautiful today as on all days. May I have the honor of a dance?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir chuckled. Well, perhaps it was a giggle, though he would have insisted otherwise. "By Nirni, is there a book published somewhere The Deflowering of Goranthir? And may I assume the author is Gaerington?" he said, kissing and embracing her.

Sheogorath

"You do me honor for my lack of present purity," the Prince laughed. And then, turning to Tris said, "There is a young fellow who looks like a nectarine looking at you."

It was Lord Laurent Lyonswurst in a flamboyant velvet suit of red, yellow, and orange, which coupled with his plumpiness, did give him the look of a nectarine. He was looking at Tris, Goranthir, and Loranna as well, with a sort of a leer, which he turned into a friendly smile when spotted.

Sheogorath

"I am free to dance, though I should prefer a slow one," Laurent smiled. "The King and Queen are on their way from the royal apartments."

Sheogorath

Goranthir grinned, and watched Tris go. "I was telling Tris that we will need to have costumes, or at very least masks when we go to Firsthold. I don't know how often you've been to Summerset, but it's the Season there."

Sheogorath

"I am entirely a man of leisure," Laurent replied, his hand on Tris's arm. "The delicious boy, and the ravishing exotic woman with the gray flesh and the tear streaks, are they free for a dance as well?"

Sheogorath

"Perhaps a combination of the two," Goranthir laughed. "Though, arguably, that wouldn't be a costume at all."

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "I almost forgot. When I went to Firsthold earlier to make sure my mother would be around, I saw my old nurse. I'm sure I never noticed it before, but she had a little shrine to Nirni!"

Sheogorath

I can even from here that she is most practiced with all the steps," Laurent smirked. "And you, my dear Tris? You have danced with them both?"

Sheogorath

"Bosmer, her name is Taolle," Goranthir said. "She lives in the woods outside Firsthold ever since my sister was old enough not to need a nurse."

Sheogorath

Laurent smiled. His hand was now on the small of Tris's back. "That's wonderful. It's good to have friends like that. Though if your life required saving many times, I have to question your lifestyle. If you want thrills, there are many more pleasant ways to get them than putting your life in danger."

The alarum sounded for the royal couples approach.

Sheogorath

Goranthir held out his hand for Allerleirauh to lead her to the floor.

Sheogorath

The sea of guests parted as King Gothryd and Queen Aubk-i entered the room, hand in hand. If they were at all annoyed with the on-again / off-again party, it did not show in their smiling, benevolent faces.

The orchestra began.

Sheogorath

Laurent watched them go, not losing the smile on his face. He knew her, even if her expression suggested she didn't remember him at all.

That didn't bother him.

Sheogorath

Goranthir knew the dance well. He had been forced to learn them all in Summerset, and though he was a reluctant student, they came to him as naturally as breathing. Not only could he do them, he could do them with individual style of the expert who knows enough about the art to improvise.

"Where did you learn?" he asks Allerleirauh.

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "I'm sure I had the same teacher! Don't worry, I drove him into retirement."

Sheogorath

Goranthir took her hand, kissed it, and kissed her cheek as well.

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "Forgive my aim. Would you care for a drink or another dance?"

Sheogorath

"I think it's the value of the year," Goranthir smiled, taking Allerleirauh out for the waltz.

Sheogorath

The peasant looked Isidor up and down critically. "You got a writ, sera?"

Sheogorath

"Never 'eard of her," said the peasant with a shrug. "And neither has anyone else."

Sheogorath

The peasant lowered his voice to avoid being overheard. "No disrespect, sera. You can boil me in oil, but if she found out I told a stranger where she lives ..." He shuddered.

Sheogorath

"She isn't even here now, sera," he whispered. "Please, ask someone else ..."

Sheogorath

Aubk-i laughed delightedly. "I would love to see you two dance!"

"I could deny you nothing, your Majesty," Laurent said, looking at Tris, and then looking back at the Queen. "Perhaps later, when the music is more romantic? May I have your leave?"

"Of course," said Gothryd, who was somewhat less delighted at the prospect of watching Tris and Laurent Lyonswurst dance.

Laurent took Tris's arm.

Sheogorath

"Are you angry with me, dear Tris?" Laurent whispered. "I am sorry if you are. Truly," his face suggested that he was. "It would be ungentlemanly of me to discuss it too much, but Doll and I ... we met before under much less formal circumstances."

Sheogorath

"That's marvelous, I'm glad for her," Laurent grinned. "She was so meek before, I barely recognized her now she's much stronger. This guild of yours, then, is not for prostitutes?"

Sheogorath

He winked at Tris. "It is a pity you're not for sale."

S'reddit

"About half and half," Laurent replied matter-of-factly, mistaking Tris's angry face for a blush. "I'm sorry if I embarrassed you. I've heard so little about what you've done after Wayrest, and when you introduced Doll as part of your guild, I had no idea that she had changed her career. No shame in that path, though, as far as I'm concerned, but I can tell she's happier now. If you had taken that route, you'd be a very wealthy man now."

S'reddit

The next song was a slow one. Goranthir wasn't quite sure whether to continue, but he held Allerleirauh in his arms nevertheless, deciding it was best if she said if she'd like to leave the dance floor.

He hoped, though, that she wouldn't.

S'reddit

"A runner, eh?" Laurent touched Tris's thigh just for a second. "By the Gods, yes, you are. My story is that upon my father's death at the hands of that [censored] Elysana, I took all my family's assets and moved here. I think the King and Queen tolerated my presence around the court because of my wealth, which, modesty aside, is considerable, but they've come to find me amusing. My title is Councilor, but I'm basically a well-dressed jester."

S'reddit

Goranthir apologized before he did it. Ladies and gentlemen of the court, that proves it was premeditated. No temporary insanity, nay, for he had but one glass of wine that night.

She was too beautiful that moment. That was his only excuse.

"I'm sorry" he said and kissed her softly on the lips.

S'reddit

"I know," he said, and then laughed, a little self-consciously. "I mean, I know you're in love, not that I know I'm a very good dancer. I mean ... I think I'm more than a little bit in love with you ... But I ... I'm being ridiculous."

S'reddit

Laurent had been angry before, more than angry even, but his eyes turned soft and his charming smile returned. "That's why I dress as I do. Love a dandy, or hate a dandy, you remember a dandy. You weren't a bastard, you were just a kid, and kids can be cruel ... But I do hope you'll visit me at Lyonswurst House someday. I will sweep away all prostitutes and others you disapprove of, if you give me any warning."

S'reddit

"I think you warrant me more maturity than I have," Goranthir said, looking into Allerleirauh's eyes. "What are these boundaries? ... I only know one. I don't mind a broken heart for myself -- I expect it, someday, maybe today."

S'reddit

"You are a powerful woman, Allerleirauh," Goranthir smiled. "But you cannot help breaking my heart, any more than I could help breaking Tris's. I offered him friendship instead, which I hear you offering me. I won't tell you it doesn't hurt. If you were foolish enough to believe that, I wouldn't have fallen in love with you ... just a bit ..."

"By the way, for the record," he added, as the dance came to an end. "I fell in love with you when we came down from the heavens into Solunastra, not just here tonight. I'm not quite that impetuous to fall for you, just because your neck looked lovely when you turned to look at the sparrow, though it did ..."

S'reddit

Goranthir sucked in air, but he felt simultaneously light in the head and alive in the flesh. "Never cold," he gasped. "Never."

S'reddit

"Because she orders me to do what I want to do?" Laurent smiled, continuing the dance. It was as he danced with Doll, and Tris could tell he was incredibly strong -- clearly it was not all fat under those red, orange, and yellow clothes. Without the slightest effort, he could swing Tris from one side of him to the other. "We are close, but she is not my lover."

S'reddit

Laurent was pleased at the compliment, and held Tris closer. "I wrestle with demons. It's excellent exercise."

S'reddit

Laurent touched the scar with his finger tips, which were soft. "Why don't you find out?"

The Queen stepped in. "Mind if I cut in, you lovebirds?"

Laurent looked at Tris and then back to Aubk-i. "Your Majesty, only for you."

The Queen laughed as Laurent spun her around the dance floor, her gown gliding behind her like wings.

S'reddit

Goranthir ran over to help his friend up.

"What was that about?" the prince asked. "I wouldn't say the sight you being molested on the dance floor by the Nectarine was pretty, but still ..."

S'reddit

Goranthir helped to blot the blood from Tris's nose. "I would say this has to be embarrassing for you, Tris, but I don't know if you know what that means ..."

"What are you whispering about?" he whispered, when Loranna whispered.

S'reddit

"Oh, please, you knew the shameless part," Goranthir grinned. "Shame and then humor, if you're making a list for your birthday. As what's wrong with him, he's spherical."

S'reddit

Goranthir began to laugh --

S'reddit

It was not enough of a scene for Goranthir. It couldn't be. He had been feeling the pleasures of love and sex, in their beautiful forms, and here was a man who had supplanted that with torture and humiliation.

"Animals behave as he does sometimes," Goranthir said, his eyes still narrow, his voice low. "The bad ones. Shaka said animals are innocent, but that's not true."

S'reddit

"I know," Goranthir replied. "But I didn't know how horrible it truly could be, until I saw how wonderful it could be by contrast. It's Sanguine he believes in, not Dibella, isn't it?"

S'reddit

"The Psijics would say it doesn't matter whether he worships Sanguine or not, he gives Him strength," Goranthir said. "I think I am going to vomit now ... Pardon me, friends ..."

Goranthir left the ballroom.

S'reddit

He could feel Laurent's eyes on him still, and when he looked at the Councillor and the Queen dancing, they were there. Warm brown eyes close up, in a kiss, but little black eyes at a distance.

The orchestra moved to the end of the song.

S'reddit

Goranthir had been sick, in the bushes in the very courtyard where Allerleirauh had told him about the Mark. He had been close to being sick then too.

He saw Loranna coming, and wiped his mouth. "Hi."

S'reddit

Goranthir lets Loranna into his arms. He chokes back a sob. "Today was such a good day."

S'reddit

Summary

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, is in one of the courtyards of Castle Daggerfall, holding Loranna. He is not sure whether he is comforting her or she is comforting him. He has recently made love for the first time to a courtesan in Sentinel, and declared his love for Allerleirauh, which earned him a kiss and a nip on the cheek. A pretty damn good day, except when he hears that people exist like ...

Laurent Lyonswurst, a plump dandy of remarkable strength. What he did to Doll in the past is best left to whispers. What he had in mind for Tris is also best left to the imagination, if yours is particularly dark and perverse. He has finished dancing with Queen Aubk-i, of whom he is a favorite, and is watching, like a predator wondering if the prey has smelled him in the change in the wind, and if so, where does that leave him.

Sheogorath

"I will, serjo," he whispered, bowing. "I am sorry I could not be of more help."

Sheogorath

Goranthir gave Loranna a kiss on the cheek, and with a sad smile, went back into the party.

Truth was, he had lost his taste for it.

Sheogorath

"Uh oh," Goranthir said. "You told her, didn't you?"

Truth was, he was glad to talk about it. Anything to keep his mind off Laurent Lyonswurst.

Sheogorath

Goranthir gave Isidor's arm an affectionate squeeze. "No, don't do that, old friend. Then we'd be the ones in trouble when things go wrong."

He winked.

Sheogorath

"Yes, sir," Goranthir grinned, and with a wave of his free hand, half-carried Tris out of the castle and into the streets, where they hailed a carriage.

Sheogorath

"Do you want to eat anything or should I get you to bed?" Goranthir asked. He was smiling, but he lost it. "Though what kind of dreams we'll have tonight ... I don't want to think about ..."

Sheogorath

Goranthir smiled at that, and nodded.

It's not news, no," Goranthir said slowly. "But if you want to know how I feel, imagine how you'd feel if it were me he was stalking, instead of you. Picture him overpowering me, and having the power of the court to protect himself. Those are the images in my head right now, except of you."

Sheogorath

"Tris," Goranthir's eyes were pleading. "Please don't. I know I need to hear about all the hell that is out there, but I can't ... It hurts too much to imagine ..."

Sheogorath

"I did," Goranthir laughed, wiping his face on his sleeve. "Though I made a fool of myself with the General. Yes, Sentinel, yes, wherever you want to go, whatever you want to do."

Sheogorath

"She said there were boundaries to what she could give," Goranthir said. "But she didn't tell me what they are. I guess I'm supposed to know. Remember when you said, back in Ald Raathim, that you just wanted to do something crazy, anything? That's how I feel. I don't want to talk. I want to do something."

Sheogorath

"Well, let's start with that," Goranthir grinned, encouraged. "And see what adventure comes along. You've sobered up, though, Tris, are you sure this will be fun?"

Sheogorath

They walked out to the stables, and Goranthir lightly punched Tris in the arm. "Child? Okay, I can see this is all about you and your costume, isn't it? Let's see ... Mad Pelagius?"

Sheogorath

Goranthir laughed. "Well, if you wanted to go for the sex appeal, you could go as Hircine, wear nothing at all, and be the talk of Firsthold."

They began trotting down the street on their horses. "I was serious about Jagar Tharn, but I could do some other Dunmer ... Allie would not be at all amused if I went as Vivec, would she?"

Sheogorath

"Then I won't shave my head. Some kind of skull cap will be needed ... And a loincloth for you, I'm afraid, Tris, much as I'd like to see my mother's face when she spots the factually accurate representation of --"

He stopped at the coin tosses.

"I've never done this before," Goranthir chuckled. "Do you know him?"

A candle was lit in the upstairs window, and the tailor's sleepy face appeared.

Sheogorath

Castle Daggerfall

Laurent Lyonswurst, who could scarcely be missed at the party, had been talking with the royal couple and the bridal couple, amusing them with story after story. Finally, Gothryd gave him the nod that said it was time.

"Ladies and gentlemen, and those of you who are neither but are enjoying yourself nevertheless," his strong clear voice echoed through the room, causing conversation to at least pause. "Your King wishes to address you."

"Gentle people," said the King of Daggerfall, whose voice was also clear without shouting. "It was good of you to return to continue the festivities so tragically interrupted before. You have given your blessing to the happy couple, and they have blessed you in return. Go in peace, and may love and happiness be with you."

Sheogorath

"That's right," Goranthir smiled, blushing a bit. "I forgot that Vivec doesn't exactly wear a lot of clothes either. I guess we just need some loincloths. Fur for Tris, and something long and silky for me. And I'll need to go to an armorer to get the shoulder plates and arm guards ... and somewhere to get the body paint ... I can get my skull cap and Tris's antlers from the masquier ..."

He laughed. "And I can handle getting you a very sweet-tempered wolf for you to bring around on a chain to complete it."

Sheogorath

"You are bad," Goranthir laughed. "I'm supposed to tell her she's to be my consort or a ... well, a female dog? ... Actually, I didn't know she could turn into a wolf ..."

He thought about it. "Almalexia then. We'll give you a real wolf."

Sheogorath

Goranthir smiled, a little more soberly. "If that were the most shocking thing, that would be nice. I'm afraid that the scars on my body will cause more gasps than anything that shows up with a transparent loincloth. Princes of Firsthold are not supposed to have an adventurer's ... scars ..."

He was about to say "mark" instead of "scar," but that was another subject he wasn't up for discussing now.

"But fur for you, you think?" he smiled. "Sounds stuffy."

Sheogorath

"No, they don't bother me," Goranthir grinned, raising his shirt and looking at them while the tailor measured his waist. "I like them. But they will shock."

He turned also to the sounds in the street.

Sheogorath

"We will need a loin cloth for Allerleirauh then too if she is to be Almalexia, and armor, and a crown," Goranthir looks to the tailor.

Sheogorath

The sketch was perfect. Goranthir nodded.

"Well, Cyrodiil is where the masks are, right?" Goranthir winked. "Assuming you have no other adventures in mind?"

Sheogorath

"You must have missed my wink, I know," Goranthir laughed.

So, what do we do?" Goranthir asked. "Are you tired?"

Sheogorath

"I guess you're expecting me to beg?" Goranthir laughed. "I've only mentioned it twice, Tris. Please?"

Sheogorath

"This must be a mistake, I don't know anyone here, except Tris," Goranthir replied, smiling.

The priestess was insistent.

If this lady is Tris in a dress, I will never stop laughing Goranthir thought to himself, following the priestess ...

S'reddit

Summary

Goranthir, Prince of Firsthold, is in Cyrodiil. He and Tris have been shopping for costumes for the Masque Season in Firsthold, where they and Allerleirauh plan to go to confront his mother, Morgiah. He is currently at the House of Dibella, where he has been informed that a mysterious lady is waiting for him ...

Shegorath

The House of Dibella, Cyrodiil

Goranthir followed the priestess through webs of gossamer which waved, wind fueled by their movement and the movement of others, who were seen and then unseen, shadows made flesh and then nothingness. The sounds of the place were ever changing: a song here, a sigh, a moan, a giggle, a whisper.

The artwork and statuary was breathtaking, the finest the young man had seen outside of the Crystal Tower. Occasionally he saw something, in the art, or in the flesh, that made him want to stop, either because it was so alluring or he didn't understand it. The priestess's tug on his hand kept him moving forward.

Behind a wave of silk, they descended ancient steps, so many feet had been on them the stone felt soft and curiously warm on his bare skin.

Water was falling somewhere he could hear it, but the dim candles did not show him where as he moved through the narrow manmade cavern. The smell of lilies was in the air, but how could it be, with no sunlight to sustain them? And yet there they were, strange and pale and beautiful.

"Your Lady awaits you within," said the priestess, showing Goranthir to a shadowy passage.

He entered, feeling nervous and hopeful.

Shegorath

Goranthir decided that he had fallen asleep back in the room where Tris had taken him, and this was all a dream ... But still he hesitated before slowly walking towards the bed.

The girl's figure was clearly lovely, but the veil was too opaque to see any features, only that she was light of skin and hair.

Wordlessly, he reached out and touched her face through the veil.

Shegorath

Goranthir's hand stayed on her cheek through the veil, but it stopped when he heard her voice. He looked through the blur of the gauze around her face to see if he could see her eyes. He knew she could see him.

"I wasn't sure before," Goranthir whispered, the corners of his mouth turning into a smile. "But now I know I'm dreaming."

He pulled himself onto the bed, facing her, kneeling in the same position as her, his right hand on her face, her neck, as he slowly gathered up the veil in his left hand.

FADE OUT

Shegorath

OOC -- She cooks well, lads.

Shegorath

"What? Oh, no," he said, looking down at the skin she was touching which had become gooseflesh. "That's just the effect you have on me. Everything's perfect. More than perfect."

He ran his hand along the curve of her calve to her ankle. "I don't think I've ever been so warm."

Shegorath

"I wouldn't have believed it, if I couldn't feel you here," Goranthir smiled, wrapping his arms around her. It was absurd, almost a protective gesture for someone as young and inexperienced as him, to be protective of someone as powerful as Allerleirauh. But it felt right, and so he did it. "I'm letting myself think that we don't ever have to leave this little cave. We may never have another day like this one, and I don't want to come out of hiding ever."

Shegorath

"The more I have of you, the more I want," Goranthir said, kissing her neck softly, across the thin line of her clavicle from shoulder to shoulder. "It's sorcery, I know it, but I don't mind."