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R.I.P. neildarkstar. Haven will miss you dearly.
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Kana - Consort To Darkness; The reasons for my devotion are, complex.
Topic Started: Jul 8 2016, 08:05 PM (127 Views)
Maxus Corvin
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"You thought perhaps, that you would always be the accessory. Standing near a throne, but never the one sitting in it. That you would forever stand in her shadow, and you made yourself content with this. But now, she has fallen into shadow herself, lost to this world. While you stand in the light, free to make your own shadow. One made from the light of fires, of magic, and of the knowledge that, you are to be something which, if there was a choice, they would deny. As they lack this choice, they are forced to accept a hero that, is twice over, something they hate."

Finally decided on an appearance for Kana, which may be unusual for an Altmer, but perhaps fitting in her admiration of Akasha's city - it's people, it's sights, it's fashions, etc. Her hair may be variable in style, and I still have to go through Akasha's entries to find out if Kana's hair is supposed to be white or black. I'll be posting shots of her when it's a bit more relevant, which is hopefully okay? Some may be mostly relevant to what is going on in the story, while others just random(which can probably go in a specific forum for that).

Also, although I don't know if mentioning mods are really relevant, but I've cleaned up Kana's plugin list majorly, in comparison to Akasha's. Still might make a few changes, which I don't think will effect the save/profile enough to cause problems. It is still early though, so restarting is an option, even if using LAL's Vampire start is a bit of a pain, since I need a specific location for this one.

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Entry 1

The truth is, complex. For it is something that I know evaded her, almost like it was never meant to be known. Although I suspect that it will become obvious to all those who survived, even if they are few. Which is a thought that I feel to be...frightening, since it is an admission of a fact, which will never change. That the paradise of that time, that place...is gone. A few decades spent thinking what occurred. Trying in vain to make sense of it, though it was more my wonder of, what would happen next? What would I do?

As much as I thought of that, more time was spent thinking of her. Questioning why I made those choices. Part of it was in pursuit of knowledge. My travels around Tamriel yielded much information. But little interest, even as I listened. In a sense, I found little interest in Hammerfell. Beyond the rumors of groups that had uses for Necromancy which were far beyond the usual want of raising corpses for various purposes, among other things, but even that was only to be a passing interest. When I met her, though, I saw past the glamour. Past any kind of magical guise that might have been there, be it under her will, or not. I was expecting that, I would have to do much more. To please her in ways that would warrant such a reward.

But all she asked, was to delve into my knowledge of magic. In return, although this was not an implicit on the table offer, more like something I mentioned, and was not expecting any kind of reciprocation. Even so, she agreed. It was up to me, when. Regardless of my race's long lifespan, I saw little reason to wait. Based on my knowledge, my adjustment was perhaps easier than for Akasha herself, or that of others. Only I was a little more, unhinged than they were. Not to the point where I killed those I fed upon, given that I had no reservations about complying with her rules. It is just that I took to feeding with little hesitation, and to Akasha, and some of the others, it was unnerving. Though in time this behavior was quelled, and the worries subsided.

One of my thoughts, was that it was my fault. That I caused the problems. But really, I could not come to terms with that. For no matter what I pushed Akasha to do, I let her choose. Not to suggest that it is her fault either. I have to think that it is just a set of occurrences that no one could have predicted, or controlled. Or, stopped – as unfortunate as that is.

I do not know the reason why, but whatever happened after I left that city is a blur. My only recollection would be from what feels like days later, wandering in the sun, feeling for the first time like I was truly dead. Even with the occasions I went without blood, it had never been this bad. Perhaps due to the fact that, even if I did not feed in a few days, it did not drain me of strength. For there were always those willing to submit, although I never treated them like mere cattle. Never. Partly due to her influence, but more because, I knew what I was doing.

Previously, I had no regrets. Never done anything that I felt strongly, that I should not have. Now, I do.

For the first group I came upon, I...killed every single one. Perhaps I could have let myself off it was just anyone. But...it wasn't. Not anyone I knew, but something worse than that. I do not want to justify this. I do not want to suggest that it is somehow right, for I know it is not. But...for that child's death, I am sorry. Should I ever set eyes upon Akasha again, I would submit myself to whatever punishment she would deem appropriate, even if I know she would not do so again.

~

“You know, I finally understand. I see it now. She has not told me yet, but I get it. I do.”

Kana snarled, jumping out of her sarcophagus with a nearly blinding speed. She looked around, looking for the source of that voice.”SHOW YOURSELF!”

She felt herself pined to the floor, seemingly by nothing. The feeling of a wet tongue slid itself across her cheek, and along with that, came the sight of a rather pale figure, holding her down. She stared into a mismatched pair of gold and violet eyes, with some strands of silver hair lightly touching her forehead. “You, need to calm down. That anger will get you nowhere.”

“What do you want?”

This man smiled, revealing his teeth to be all fangs, which he licked, along with his lips. “I want you to understand something. I want you, to know a truth that will, perhaps, fix this broken woman I see before me.”

“Then, out with it!”

He nodded, but did not let her go. “Choice. That is something many misunderstand. Every choice you have made thus far, led you to this point. Even intersected by the choices of others. But now, you have a chance to choose something that, is yours to do so. Will you actually make it? Will you want to walk, ride or sail into the unknown, not knowing what awaits you? Friends? Enemies? Horrors from beyond your wildest imagination? WOULD YOU DO THIS? If so, then you are not the monster that you may, at this point, believe yourself to be.”

“Why are you asking me this – especially in this position?”

The smile on his face did not leave. “It is symbolic. You have been haunted by those events, and they are keeping you here. Kept within these decrepit halls, even if it is not a prison for you. You could leave, but you do not. Hmm...where have I heard that one before? But what I suggest...”He disappeared from her sight, appearing standing before her as she slowly stood. “...is that you are meant for something else. To do something, no one else will. They can, but perhaps, they will not. Many souls may be able, but perhaps it is one, and only one, that will take their place as...well, you will find that out soon enough, depending on if you choose to do this.”

“Who are you?” She felt wary, even if it was true that she had not been attacked yet.

“I am...really? Why do people keep asking me that? Keep wanting to know who or what I am? As if I have not made it clear already. But perhaps you have a unique insight into this. You, unlike her, who understands how the Empire he built fell. WHY, it fell – even if there was an effort to save it. I too, understand it as well. Perhaps much more than ANYONE else. You, know why.”

She gasped. “Ruler of two empires that span the minds of mortals, Divine and Daedra alike. One of four corners of the House of Troubles. You've changed. What happened?”

He shrugged. “Apotheosis. No small feat for a mortal – even if I was actually a Vampire at the time. Due to that bloody Aylied ruin, although perhaps it was intentional on my part? I knew how to cure it, but did not. How the Prince of Domination laughed at me, when I paid him a visit – with him realizing all to quickly that my 'soul' was forever beyond his reach. But I find myself more amused at all the scholars who might note a difference in my behavior, but consider that nothing more than a quirk of my chaotic nature. It could be, but then, the very few that may be aware, even if this could be millions of people, seem to think that what I was, faded with my mortality. That I would grow into the role, and lose 'myself' in the process. In a sense, yes, and yet, no.”

Kana sighed. The knowledge was comforting, in a sense, although the main point still stood. He was asking her to do something, even if he was not at all saying what. “Then what should I do?”

“Follow the smoke – oh, and make sure your throat doesn't get cut. Although, it would heal, would it not? So you may never have to lose something you will come to, enjoy.”
Edited by Maxus Corvin, Sep 23 2016, 11:37 PM.
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Andra Hawksdaughter
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Maxus! Good to see you and Kana! :D

And she is starting with a bang!
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Serethil
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Oh, great stuff, Max!
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Maxus Corvin
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Entry 2

“What you know, is substantially less, than what I do. For various reasons. But the most you have to understand, is that I will not be pushed around by you.” I made no effort to grab a weapon, since I did not need any.

“You are nothing more than....” The Dunmer before me sniffed. “You are one of us...you even reek of the blood you've spilled to sate yourself. You are Altmer, and yet...why are you so dark?”

I smiled. “Devotion. Call it what you like, I made a choice.” Grabbing him by the neck, he could do little but sputter as I lifted him into the air.

“Kill me and you will be slaughtered.” This was all he could say, when I allowed him to.

I could not help but smirk. “Wrong.” A small movement of my hand broke his neck. I pulled the cloak from his back, throwing it over my shoulder. Another small exertion of effort, and his body was lit on fire. I released my hand, watching his body slowly become ashes before my eyes.

I looked around the place, seeing eyes staring at me in the darkness of the room. All glowing, but seemingly not angry. I pulled the cloak around my shoulders, and held out my arms. I could feel their tension. Their willingness to attack, every single one of them looking for an opening. But beyond this, there was that slight hint of fear. “Anyone else, feel free. If not, then go about your business, and do not get in my way.”

~

“Seriously? You keep acting like that, even though I have said several times by now, I know what I am doing.”

“Why did you let her do it? Was it some kind of allure that you-”

“You honestly think she forced me? That I did not want this?” I sighed. “It was a curiosity I could not ignore. You know my pursuits. Knowledge. Sometimes it cannot be gained from books, from interaction that lacks personal experience. As much of a risk as it is, I wanted to understand. The disease, though oddly enough that was not part of it. The power, the feelings, the ability to exist in this state. Few have – most of them being holed up in caves somewhere, not making their knowledge useful. Not to some library, not to those who would misuse it, but where it is really useful.”

I watched Myra sigh. “But you know it goes deeper. You know what you've read of Vampires already. Do you not care about that?”

“I know what occurs to those who die while a Vampire. I know there is a cure. I know that I would not dare dishonor her, by running off to find it without reason. Useful as it would be, I do not think it is needed. We need this power – it is not something that I would discard lightly, no matter what it means, should I die.”

She smiled, sighing again. “Don't mistake me – I admire Akasha just as much as you. I just needed to hear you say you know. I needed to know that you are still the same.”

I laughed. “You think this changes things? You think I was going to suddenly have a vested interest in nothing but this?” I held up a bottle of a thick, red liquid. “Not entirely. I have other things to do. Other pursuits that still go towards what I am always after. I have many ideas, some things that Akasha has asked about.”

Myra grabbed the bottle from my hand. “Then I will accept it just as you have. I'm sorry...I...well, I think you know how much I hesitated, even if I knew it was likely the only chance I would get. You told me that it was at least possible, and then...”

I placed a finger on her mouth. “I'll apologize for being so...forward about it, but it was your choice in the end.” I shrugged, placing my hand on a book that I'd recently obtained. “Even so, I have begun to research a cure, even if I am not going to consider looking for one a priority. It relates to something Akasha understands by this point, that some many develop reservations, and want a cure. I do not, and I believe that she is content with herself as well, but for others, they may feel differently.”

She nodded. “It surprises me that this city has remained as peaceful as it has, even with Vampires inhabiting it.”

“The main reason is that most, are not always in the city itself. Most who have become Vampires mainly stay in the palace, under Akasha's scrutiny – even if she is not as strict as her rules make her seem. We can go into the city freely, but that does not mean that her rules do not matter.”

Myra held her hand up. “The last thing I'm going to do is go against her. I've given a lot for her, and yet, I've gotten some of that back.”

I smiled, knowing that the reason Myra accepted, was not out of some wish for power. Rather, it was due to a rather grievous injury, which she may have healed from, but the severity was far beyond that of others. The exact details were simple, she was injured in defense of the city, though it was not something which worried Akasha, at least not the attack itself. She certainly did reward Myra in a number of ways, but I felt the sort of concern which Akasha would not have, for it was not her place. Perhaps it was not mine either, but I still made the effort, tried to understand who this woman was. Raised in the city, though her family came to the city some time ago, from Cyrodiil. She herself was still young, only coming of age three years ago. Her injury, occurred six months ago – partly due to magic, and steel, she had lost most of her arm, up to just below her shoulder.

The suggestion was made to Akasha a week ago. Even with what she said, I hesitated. When I did tell her, I made it clear – it was her choice. Not mine. I even went so far as to apologize for prying into her history without asking. I was worried that she would use that against me, wondering how she could trust me if I would do such a thing. But she just smiled and asked, if perhaps I knew for sure, if becoming a Vampire would heal her. I honestly wanted to lie. I wanted to say it, not because of what may have been my selfish want to help, but to give her hope. I told her the truth – that I was not sure. That I could find nothing to say absolutely that it would.

“What did Akasha do with that sword?”

I turned to her on the verge of snarling, but I stopped myself. “Made sure that no one else would be able to use it. Ever again. That material is not only rare, but in the form of such a weapon? Dangerous.”

“Ah well. Hey, what is that book?” She pointed to one I'd recently purchased, and it was...perhaps a mistake. I could not read it. Not for lack of trying, but due to the language it was written in. I'd seen it rarely before, and this book was the first time it was not more than a single inscription. Which, was all in Dragon Speech. I'd tracked down a name before, at least how the language itself would say it - “Dovahzuul”. I do not know why it rolls of my tongue so easily. I explained some of this to Myra, even opening the book.

“I see what you mean. So you cannot read any of this?”

I was about to shake my head, when I saw it. A single word that was familiar. “Dovahkiin.”

She blinked. “Any idea what it means?”

~

“Su?” I felt it this time. Not just carvings on a wall, but something more. An almost incessant chanting, and when I came close enough, I knew it. What puzzled me, was what use it would be. The reasoning. Though that came down to something I was, somewhat aware of as well.

“You see? You honestly thought I was lying?” I turned, only to see him step over the corpse of the Draugr I killed.

“No, but you did say I should see for myself. Which I have – and yes, I know that there is much more to this.”

He smiled, nodded. “Indeed. Chase the smoke. Witness a horror that would chill those of a lesser will to the bone. But this has already happened. I heard it, you know. The innocent of that place, crying out as their eyes are shown something which they believed nothing more than myths and legends. Something which could never harm them, could never burn down their village. But this one, is true.”

“You think I do not know that already? That I have no idea what is going on?”

He almost looked shocked, but then sighed. “That, too. You have always found ways to, know. Traveling the world, reading almost endlessly. Only it was not always for yourself. In this case, it will prove to be the steel against the flames, able to withstand the heat. The very reason you do not run from this – you have the tenacity to do this, where the others, either fall in their attempt, or choose something else. I would not fault them for either. But you, well, you know exactly what you are going to do.”

Approaching the word wall, he touched it, laughing. “He wakes, and even if he does not, and will not know it for some time, he waits for you. He shall pass by without so much as a glance, believing he can take his place atop the world, set to devour, or conquer it once again. You are no average person, no common villager. Yet he shall pass by you all the same.” He turned to me, a smirk on his face, and he began laughing, as a lovely tone escaped his lips, a song. “Beware, beware the Dragonborn comes...”

~

The sight was not exactly unfamiliar. Smoke rising into the air, a hint of burning bodies in the air. But nothing else. Almost a complete silence, beyond the fires that were still burning. Some had gone out, leaving piles of ashes, burned houses, collapsed ones, and fallen or broken towers. But that paled in comparison to the roar of what I knew for centuries, was the truth. That the Empire was always right about this, or at least any who spoke of these creatures. It never looked at me, but I felt fear still. Even if it was dulled, since I was able to stand still and collect myself. It disappeared into the distance, and it seemed almost if this would be something isolated. Like this would be it. Nothing more. Then I found a single burned body, clutching a leather-bound journal.

It fell to ashes when I picked it up. I briefly noticed the body's shape – a female. Nothing else about them was obvious. Even with my lack of faith, I still had to stay in my kneeling position for a moment, saying 'I'm sorry.' - even if I was at fault for nothing. The journal itself described the woman being caught by the Imperials, and taken to this village – Helgen. She was to be executed, even if she was not a 'Stormcloak' like the rest of them. The last part describes a bit of the attack, naming what had done it – a Dragon.

The journal mentioned another nearby village – Riverwood. I had a few options, and the most obvious seemed to be...well, doing something. I was not tired, I was not hungry, at least not for what others would be, and I certainly wasn't in need of the usual 'help'. I was actually looking to provide it, as I seemed. Only I had to get things in motion.

I headed out of the Southern gate, going in the same direction. The path split a certain distance from Helgen, and I choose to go left. An offshoot of this path soon led me to a bend with a interesting sight. Three carved stones, each of them bearing a constellation that I was rather familiar with. A book I had read as a girl, spoke of them. The Warrior, the Mage, and the Thief. My natural incarnation towards magic made it no surprise which was my sign, then, as now. Perhaps just something I had forgotten?

My walk toward the village was something I had to take time to appreciate, since the sound of flowing water was something I had always enjoyed. This river had several waterfalls, and the water itself was a nice, clear blue – beautiful. The only break in this, would be the two wolves. Honestly?

When they both tried to attack, I simply grabbed each of their muzzles, keeping them shut. Kneeling, I looked into their eyes. “Stop, and leave.” I let them go, and they both ran of into the trees. I saw no point to kill them. They were rather cute, after all.

“It's not everyday we get visitors in Riverwood.” The Blacksmith addressed me when I passed by him, looking for someone to speak with. He seemed a possible choice.

“You may be getting more, since a Dragon has attacked Helgen.”

The man dropped his hammer. “What? A Dragon?”

“Yes.” I bit my lip, trying to remember what I should know about Skyrim. “The Jarl needs to know about this, right? Where is....”

He dumped a canteen of water on his face, nodding. “It's in Whiterun, to the north of here. Take the path out of town near the Inn, and you should see it when you pass the falls.”

I thanked him, and went to look around. It was then that I heard some noise from inside what a sign said was a Trader. Curiosity obviously got the better of me, and I headed inside. What I found, was a woman, and presumably the shop owner arguing about something.

“Well, what are you going to do about it, huh?”

“I said NO. No adventures, no theatrics, no thief-chasing!.”

It was then that the man noticed me, and I approached his counter. “Oh, a customer. Sorry you had to hear that.”

“Did something happen?” I asked the question, knowing somehow that this was not going to be simple.

“Oh, uh...we had an ornament, gold, in the shape of a Dragon's Claw. It was stolen from us recently. I'm not sure where they went, but my guess would be...Bleak Falls Barrow.”

I sighed, and shrugged. Telling him I'll get it back, the woman, apparently his sister, chimed in. “Oh, well, I think your helper here needs a guide.”

“Oh, By-The-Eight, FINE. But just to the edge of town!”.

I nearly lost it. 'By the EIGHT'? Was I wrong? Did I get some wrong information somewhere? I tried to put it out of my mind as I left the shop with Camilla, who pointed to where I had to go, when we were just outside the door. It was apparent a ruin that was on the mountain within sight of the village. I politely said that I could get there just fine, and she nodded.

Well, I was getting hungry. Better to feed on bandits and other rabble, than those in Riverwood.
Edited by Maxus Corvin, Sep 29 2016, 06:47 PM.
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Areial
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Very nice...interesting take.
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Serethil
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Quite a setup! That's an excellent read, I enjoy Kana's style and take on things. Bleak Falls should be interesting - and provide plenty of blood....
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Andra Hawksdaughter
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Max, that was a great read, and enlightening. To become what she is, just for the sake of curiosity, the thirst for knowledge. To find she likes it is rather creepy, lol. Still, I can understand, somewhat, and yet wonder if she was as coldly vicious before becoming a vampire? Wow, don't get on her bad side. And then there is the Dragon...and more knowledge to be gained. Funny, I liked that she thought the wolves were cute!
Very good. :)

I want to know what happened, or will happen, with Myra.
Edited by Andra Hawksdaughter, Sep 20 2016, 06:57 PM.
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Maxus Corvin
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Entry 3

“You are not going to say you are hesitating, are you?”

I smiled, closing the book I was reading. Turning around as I stood, I could not believe the sight before me. Myra sat on the edge of my bed wearing almost nothing, and in that moment, every sense focused not on the obvious, but on much more. I knew her. I had come to appreciate her in many ways, and thus this sight was about beauty. Not perversion, not lustful thoughts, though I feel it would be lying to think I did not have them. But they were born out of character, out of my interaction with her, not the mere sight.

I am not a liar. Not once have I lied to Akasha, Myra, or anyone else. I told them both everything about me, everything they wanted to know. But a lie is not when you do not say something. It is when, you say something else in place of the truth, and leave it at that. Most of my life I had chosen not to, at least from the point that I understood the concept. At times, even if a situation pushes you, where you may lie purely to avoid a problem. Although, what if you are right? What if you could lie to avoid punishment, imprisonment, or the like, but you do not. For you are not the one who is, 'wrong'. Your feelings may be far purer than the ones who wish to hurt you, and to them, that does not matter. They believe something, and no amount of persuasion will change that. No amount of spoken words that are true. I have heard it one too many times. 'That is just how it is.' Why? It seems like that means 'That is how we want it'.

She grabbed me around the waist, pulling me towards the bed, and into it. “Come on, stop getting lost in thought. Whatever it is, let it go.”

“I...want to. I want to just forget. To not care. I do not. Yet, I still think about it.”

Myra climbed on top of me, planting her lips on mine. “Tell me. I have been patient. I told you everything about me, and I felt I should be understanding when you wanted time to tell me. I...I want to be here for you, so I have to know.”

Awkward as I felt, I knew she was right. Akasha never pressed when I told her I would rather not say it, and she felt confident that, no matter what problems I had, they were not something she had to pry into. Jouri understood as well, naturally.

“I know how this is going to sound. But I completely lost respect for my parents after....well....”

What I told her was simple. Both my parents were followers of the Divines. As I came of age, I had been fed the rhetoric since the cradle. I had no wish to completely forget it, to believe it was all wrong. But I wanted something else. More than just the lives I had seen them lead. I already had the affinity for Magic, and that was were it started. Power flowing from words. From my hands. From a well of energy contained within living creatures. I wanted to, know. To understand the world I was in. The good, the bad. I sought he highest centers of learning for magic after years of study, and it was then, that the divide began to form. That, and I had also proven that, whatever legacy that my family would leave, I had little wish to contribute to it. I knew how it sounded. Apparently selfish, self-centered. I knew that perfectly well before anyone said it. I was no fool. But their reasons came just as I knew what they would say. They made a choice, and I had not made the same one. Yet, I was the one criticized. I was the one who had to face them, even if their understanding of my choice was limited.

I spoke of Aryellis, a fellow practitioner of magic I had met. In the course of three years, I fell for her. She had a similar want as me, a pursuit in magic. I was delighted to find someone like her. Someone I could teach, learn from, accept for who she was – and she would do the same in kind for me. With her, my world was open, any illusions of closed doors were dispelled, and it was about us, and what we wanted. Not expected to do anything, but looking to do great things all the same.

The final blow was not something I had to feel. Distant as my parents were, I never had to truly mourn their loss. Nor that of Aryellis. If only because I could not. I understood what happened, I was no fool. I was left with one reason, in the end, and that is all that kept me going.

I had been planning a trip with Aryellis for months. Various details to be sorted out, and all of it seemed a blur when I received a letter. I traveled for two days just to go see her, and it was the start. I talked with her, and most of what she could say was, that she was sorry. I felt the same way. She placed a necklace in my hand, telling me to keep it with me, always – so I never forget her.

That was the last thing she was able to say.

It took me weeks to cancel the trip, though I made the effort to keep some things in mind for the future. Once that was done with, I devoted myself even further to my pursuits. Nearly endless days and nights, always looking for something that, in the end, I would never truly find. Pouring over books, tomes, scrolls, everything I could get my hands on. Some things would slip, others becoming quickly impossible to forget. Where others would gloss over certain subjects, I entertained them, as I wanted to feel no bias. Necromancy, Blood magic, and various other aspects of magic that, while material was perfectly available, few actually sought them. Though my purpose was not some grand idea to gain back what I had lost. No, I just wanted to, as always, know.

A year later I was visited by a man who wanted to speak with my privately. He expressed his sympathy for my loss, and when I seemed confused, he apologized, and gave me a letter. It explained that, four days ago, a fire had broke out in the Temple, which my parents were caretakers of. Most of it's occupants were able to escape, but my parents did not. After a day, they were found alive, but within hours, their injuries proved too much.

I realized that I was not crying. At least, not at first. In spite of the sunny evening, it was soon still raining. When I managed to compose myself again, he presented me with a document baring my parents signatures, and at the top, the name of the family. He read it, but I was well aware of what it said. Well aware of the details. As he related, and I knew, I was now the effective head of the family. The families' estate, it's wealth, and various other things, were now solely mine.

Days later, I arrived home. I spent a week there, before I made a choice. A cousin of mine, lived a few miles away. I sent her a letter, asking for her to stay with me for a few days. I relayed to her what had happened, even if she was already aware – it was a preface to what I was planning. I wanted to travel across Tamriel, and while I had little holding me back, I wanted to make sure that the affairs of the estate were in order. They mostly were, only one detail remained.

Varana expressed some degree of disbelief when I asked her to stay at the estate. I assured her it was no joke, and everything was taken care of. While their could certainly be problems, I was fairly sure that she would be able to take care of them.

“What happened to that necklace?” Myra suddenly asked.

“I still have it, obviously. I...I...this is embarrassing...I swallowed it.”

Her jaw dropped in disbelief. “What? Why?”

I explained that it was after Akasha had made me a Vampire. “I made the mistake of dropping it in a glass, and not noticing when I swallowed it. Please do not ask me how I know that – I just know I did.”

She laughed, tracing a line down my stomach. “Well, you do still have it with you, at least.”

“I do...um...”I suddenly felt slightly awkward, since Myra had not moved at all, and she was still almost hovering over me.

“Oh, right. I almost forgot.” Her smile became wide as she slid her finger down my stomach once again, stopping at my belt. She tired to slide her hand under it, and I stopped her.

“Wait, I...I hope you do not...”

She sighed. “Honestly? You think I have not seen those books you gave to Akasha? Or that I have not noticed her otherwise? It does not bother me, and anything you...have...” She forced me to let go, and actually slid her hand under my belt, and down my skirt. I had to curse the sight and knowledge of the water fountain in the room, as it was an all too present echo of how I felt within seconds.

Myra's eyes went wide, and her mouth stretched into a pleased grin, her tongue slipping out. “You...shaved?”

I shook my head. “No...it has never...”

She laughed, keeping her smile. Slowly sticking her tongue out, she traced my lips, then kissed me. Pulling away, she kept her tongue touching me as she backed up. Down my chin, my neck, my chest. She traced around my belly button, kissing it, and then she kept going...

~

“BY AZURA!”

The climb up the mountain was perhaps easier than some would have found it. Even how cold it soon became was not the hindrance it would otherwise be. Something I obviously noticed, but was able to brush aside as if it was nothing. That was the least of my concerns, even if my actual concerns were very few. It seemed that bandits were rather prevalent in Skyrim, these occupying a lone tower just off the path to the Barrow, and even if I did hear one of them say something in reference to the fact that I am a Vampire, it seemed to matter very little. These were not hunters, and the most they knew was to try and kill a Vampire, or anything else that seemed worth it. Was I? When I walked away, carrying the Septims previously owned by these bandits, along with anything else of value, their blood staining my lips, I had to think the answer to that question was, no.

To be honest, I had seen depictions of Nordic Barrows in books, including at least one that this sight proved wrong. I did not doubt that these Barrows could vary in their construction, even if some aspects of their design would be similar, if not the same, but I had to think that such a grandiose regime would not go for something so simple as crypts built into the earth, even if that could be a general description of any tomb. What was before me, was a massive structure, the importance of which may be lost to history. The bandits walking around outside would certainly not help anyone trying to unravel that mystery, and while they were cleared out easily enough, that was not all I had to contend with – although I am certainly getting ahead of myself.

Once inside the large doors, I overheard two of the bandits talking. They mentioned a Dunmer, specifically, that had gone ahead into the tomb, perhaps trying to find whatever treasure this place hid for himself. Even with this, the two did not seemed to care. They just wanted a share, even if it was likely that this place had a secondary exit – a perhaps standard practice for building underground, or any type of structure – which meant that he could disappear, and they would get nothing. A pity they attacked me, since that also means they get nothing.

Further in, I found another...bandit, who seemed to lack awareness of his surroundings. This, has nothing to do with me. Why? I watched him pull a lever, in an effort to open the gate ahead. Rather than opening the gate, a number of darts shot from the walls in his direction, perhaps poisoned, and he fell to the ground within seconds. I will perfectly admit, the trick here is simple. The short of it is this – there were three pillars to my left as I entered the room, each with three faces, and symbols on them. Above me, and the closed gate, were three carved stone heads, each with a symbol matching one on the pillars. Only, I lie, one of these stone faces had fallen to the ground. Choosing the right symbols on the pillars, and pulling the lever, caused the gate to open.

Beyond the Skeevers, I next stumbled upon something, amusing. The lair of a large spider, who had the Dunmer captive for some reason. The spider was no feat to deal with, and that left dealing with the “captive”. I asked him about the claw, and rather than asking how I knew about it, he said that he knew how it all worked, the claw, the 'door in the Hall of Stories'. He asked me to cut him down and he meant to show me. Exact words. Only he never got to show me, though his journal sufficed.

Two rooms ahead, I finally encountered something I had been expecting. Perhaps something that may have been common knowledge in Skyrim, but I had learned of it from books. The ancient Nords of Skyrim had specific methods to prepare the dead, and while most have been entombed in these crypts, not all of them are meant to lie for eternity. Some were preserved, kept alive in service to what they devoted their lives to. A regime that had long since fallen, but they serve regardless. Some may be confined to these tombs, either through magic or simple physical barriers that cannot be breached, while others had free reign to go where ever they may please. However, most stayed within the vicinity of their crypts, perhaps linked to them by magic. It was certainly an interesting fact, that these tombs seemed to be littered with trappings of magic use, and yet, the current climate concerning it in Skyrim was not positive. I knew why, and it was something I found ridiculous – the simplistic use of a scapegoat to avoid a larger explanation, or something peripheral, and not the true cause of the problem.

These former men and women were, Draugr. A different take on an undead creature, as other takes may have them as strong, but much of their functions are limited otherwise. Draugr, could use magic. They could even speak, even if it was in a language that I was unsure if I could grasp. Their strength was not a question either, since they would also freely use weapons. Not to the same quality as what one could make with better techniques and the same materials, but still solid weapons.

When I found the door, the puzzle itself was rather simple. Certainly a cause for concern, given that even an average intelligence could easily see how one opens these doors. But perhaps the point was not to keep would be explorers out. Draugr are not creatures to be taken lightly, and they obviously defend their perhaps dusty and stale home with a fervor that equals any town guard, and they do not care about why you are here, only that you are.

Inside, I found myself smiling as a number of bats flew by. Twice, actually. That was not as surprising as the sight I was graced by next.

Part of it was not exactly a surprise. A wall that was similar to the one I had seen in the Bastion, but the rest of it certainly was. The rays of light coming into the chamber, the flowing stream through it, and the raised platform that dominated the middle of the room, with the Word wall, and a closed Sarcophagus. When I approached the wall, it was glowing like the other. Once again, I heard the chanting, and soon enough, my vision went nearly black as the glowing words became nearly all I could focus on.

FUS

I started to ponder the significance, as I hear a loud crash behind me. Turning, I saw the lid of the Sarcophagus on the floor, and another of the Dragur crawling out. He took one look at me, and pulled his weapon. I smiled, raising my hand, and with a quick motion, a shadowy sphere came to life in my hand. Closing my fingers slightly, I raised my hand higher, and then made a flourishing motion as a blade of pure magicka appeared in my hands.

His movements were slightly faster than the others, but this was not difficult to match. He brought his blade against mine, and the most he was able to do was scratch me with his blade – an enchanted one, a blistering cold seeping in with every touch against my skin. Though that was of little concern, since it was easy to shrug off.

This one did seem surprised at my strength, especially when I wrenched the blade from his hand, and threw it away. He growled as he grabbed my upper arm and yelled. 'Ruth Fahliil' His anger equaled his surprise when he could not pull my arm at all. This lapse in judgment lead to him not seeing my blade come into contact with his neck, severing his head from his body. Which fell backwards, and sent up a cloud of dust upon hitting the ground. I also noticed that one of the metal fastenings on his armor had broken, and I could just barely see a bit of stone under it. Much as I would rather not, I grabbed the chest piece and pulled, easily ripping it off.

Under his armor was a large stone, with inscriptions on the surface. I picked it up, and even a quick examination made something obvious – the stone tablet depicted a map of Skyrim. The marks, I had no idea what they were. Certainly not cites or villages, not even Nordic Ruins, since from memory those were not marked on this map, and while these could be their ruins, Bleak Falls did not have a marker.

I could just leave it here. It seemed almost as meaningless as the carved stonework in the Hall of Stories. Although, both likely had their significance. However, I could easily carry this tablet out of here, while the ones in the Hall I could not. Even if I was fighting with myself about it, the end result was the usual – I was keeping it, for now.

Once I left the ruin, through a convenient and logical secondary exit, I suddenly remembered the thing about Helgen, the Dragon and the need to get to Whiterun. I had a few options, the most direct being heading back to Riverwood. However, I knew about a cave that passed through the mountain that the Barrow sat on, which was a option I felt was better.

What I found inside, surprised me. First was a number of skeletons, which posed no threat. Further in was a almost predictable sight – a Necromancer. Not something new, since I had practiced that myself. So not only did this man provide me with a meal, he also had a few interesting books, along with an enchanting table I made use of once I disposed of him – even if I had little that I could do with it at the moment.

I left that cave after dealing with a few more Skeletons, to a pre-dawn, cloudy sky. Most of Whiterun Hold was tundra, though some was certainly fertile grassland – due to it having at least two farms outside the hold capital, and Rorikstead, to the west, was a small farming village. I had to sigh as I remembered the Civil War, which was something I found ridiculous, and not for what might be the obvious reason. It was all about a simple disagreement – that being, is Talos a Divine, or not? Despite being an Altmer, my answer would be, I do not care. Anyway, Whiterun was remaining neutral in the conflict, even if there were some obvious hints that it actually was not.

On one hand, Whiterun had two families that had pledged loyalty to opposite sides. The suggestion from some was that, the Jarl was more in support of the Imperials, despite his refusal to allow the Legion to be garrisoned in his city. On the other, as I learned once I got passed the city guards and into the capital itself, right in the shadow of Dragonsreach was a statue of Talos, along with a man preaching about said Divine. I simply shrugged and walked past, even if I would admit that the preaching was annoying after a few seconds.

When I entered the palace, I was not stopped in any way. At least until I walked up a few steps into the main part of the hall, where a Dunmer approached me with her sword drawn. She inquired about my presence, and when I told her about Helgen, she was quick to suggest that the Jarl wanted to speak with me. I relayed the information about Helgen once again, and he looked to his housecarl, Irileth, telling her to send guards to Riverwood at once.

“...I...uh, learned of a certain stone tablet, said to mark the location of Dragon burial sites...”

“You...you mean this?” I set the tablet down on his desk, and the look of surprise on his face was beyond what I could imagine.

Just after this, I heard Irileth running into the hall, stopping at the entrance to Farengar's study. She mentioned that a dragon had been sighted nearby, and the Jarl wanted to speak with him. In the next breath, she said “...you should come too."
Edited by Maxus Corvin, Oct 19 2016, 08:52 AM.
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Areial
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Et'Ada
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Awesome read Max!!
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Serethil
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Et'Ada
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Great stuff, glad to get back to Kana for a bit!
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Andra Hawksdaughter
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Jarl
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Well done Max, and I enjoyed it very much. I've learned more about her now, and that makes it more fun. I like finding it out little by little. Hehe, I loved how she took BFB in stride, and that little fetcher with the claw. Now, will she or won't she....deal with the dragon? (I have to say, I could easily see her just decide to observe the whole encounter just for the sake of the knowledge. :D )
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