Chapter 2: Julan Kaushibael
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| Julan Kaushibael and those Damned Clannfears |
Day 29
Temporarily out of cash
and jobs I decided to take the plunge and see my superior. Cosades was
surprisingly sober.
“Annika Blue, I was
expecting you nearly a month ago,” Cosades said sternly as I walked through the
threshold. “You are fortunate, I was willing to wait a few more days then
I was going to take your disappearance to Gravius.”
“I’m here now.
And I’m willing to serve you and the Emperor,” I said nearly
choking on the words.
“As you should be,”
Cosades said staring long and hard. “And you will do exactly as I command
without question. If you fail—in any way—I will see that you are thrown
head long in to dungeon—to serve out your term.”
“I understand Cosades,”
Now I was terrified…and angry.
“Good. Now that we
understand each other I’ll tell you this, the Emperor has sent orders that you
are to serve in the capacity as a novice in the Blades.” I could not, for
the life of me, understand the why the Emperor would have chosen me for this
and Cosades would not enlighten me. He went on, “The Blades are the Emperor’s
eyes and ears in the provinces. For the time being, I need you to meet
with Hasphat Antabolis to find out some basic information on the Nerevarine
Cult and Sixth House. You’ll find him at the Fighters Guild.” The
Fighters Guild was a social club for the insane brave and stupidly arrogant; at
least there were some trainers there—provided I could stomach them.
“I will do that Caius.”
Great, I get to spy on crazy cultist for my duration in Vvardenfell.
Ehhh….
“Oh and Annika,” he said
softly, “just avoid unwanted attention.” Easy. I had been doing
that all my life…..
Now I had my assignment
and some cash, I figured I’d take my time about seeing Hasphat. I had
heard from a priestess at the Balmora Temple and from Cosades that this place
called Ghostgate had some powerful restorative spells. I was never one for
magic; my method was hacking and keelhauling my victims to the ground, but if a
little hocus pocus keeps me from catching something nasty, then I’m all for it.
Plus, a few nights ago, I had been unexpectedly attacked outside my
apartment. The thug, dressed on all in black was felled quickly, a guard
had seen what was going on and had been, surprisingly, helpful. As the
man in black laid dead in a pool of blood on the ground, I noticed a crumpled
piece of paper beside him. Shaking, I took it in hand and what I read
chilled me to the bone, for it was a writ of execution. Running as fast
as my legs would carry me, I took the writ to Cosades.
“Odd,” he said reading
it then looking up at me. “Annika, you will have to see Apelles Matius in
Ebonheart. He can better advise you on this. It looks to be, though
I am not sure, an attack by the Dark Brotherhood. If that is the case, whoever
wants you dead means business.”
“Thank you, Casius—for
the information,” I said though I had no intention of seeing sera Matius, as I
housed a severe distrust all Imperial Guards. Only if the attacks
increased would I consider making the trip to Ebonheart. Plus killing
these bastards had the added benefit of making money off their stripped armor
and weapons. No, best to keep them coming for awhile—though it might be
equally as wise to get out of town for a few days. I told Cosades of my
plans and was warned by him to watch for the Dremora when traveling in the
wastes outside of Ghostgate. Dremora, or demons, as I learned are summoned by
various Daedric princes, or demigods that roamed a plane between mortal and
immortal, attaching people at will. These Dremora took many forms and all
had powerful weapons or poisons to use against hapless passersby.
The trip to Ghostgate
was long; sitting on the silt strider, making the crossing north from Balmora
to Ald-ruhn, I thought of what I had heard about Ghostgate. The Tribunal
of living gods had created a huge wall around Red Mountain to keep all the
horrors at bay. The priests at the temples told me that the wall was
failing and that evil was seeping out everywhere and sadly, the gods did not
have enough fingers to plug the dyke. I pondered this as I
went from one port to the next, past the dusty town of Ald’ruhn. Stopping there
I took the dirt road east toward Ghostgate. I encountered numerous beasts
and couple of exiled Ashlanders though I wondered how does one get exiled from
a tribe that already lives outside of civilization? Dusty and dirty, and
slightly bloody, I arrived at Ghostgate only to witness this man being
slaughtered by some Clannfears, Dremoran lizards with vicious claws and sharp
beaks; a testament to why the Tribunal built the Great Wall. I stood
dumbfounded as my heart skipped a beat. He was beautiful—a word rarely
applied to men or mer, but it fit. He was a Dumner, with dark skin and
eyes as red as blood. His lips were full and, well, I had never seen his
like before. “Wake up, Anni and get in there,” I said to myself.
Raising my sword I let fly. In a daze, bits and pieces flew from
the Dremora. In a matter of minutes there was nothing left..
The man or mer as the
Dunmer were called, stood before me wiping the sweat from his brow, seemingly
dumbfounded too. “Greetings, Outlander. I suppose I should thank you for
your help with those Clannfears, although I never asked for it.
Everything was covered.”
I couldn’t believe him.
“Are you crazy?” I shouted. “They were making mincemeat out of you!
Look at your wounds, for Azura’s sake!”
“Ha! I’ll have you know
I was just playing with them to train my skills. Then you came blundering
in playing the hero and ruined it for me… Next time, keep out of it!”
“I just saved your life
you stupid…. s’wit! Are you always this ungrateful? I suppose you
won’t want healing either, since you’re clearly very busy training in Bleeding
to Death.”
“Ah, well actually….” he
started sheepishly.
“No, no, I can see you
don’t need any assistance. I’ll let you carry on with training. I’m
sure more Daedra will be along shortly.” I turned stiffly on my heel
stalking away when I heard him heard him speak.
“Wait!” the s’wit said
quickly. “Alright, I apologize. I’m glad that you arrived when you
did. You probably saved my life.”
“That’s better.
Wait… probably?” Clearly, this idiot has caught blight and was out of his
mind.
“All right! You
definitely saved my life. Happy now? And…uh…if you could heal me,
I’d be very grateful. I seem to run out of potions, and magicka…and well,
most things really...”
“Here’s a damned potion.
Don’t choke on it.” I felt bad for this fetcher—for his stupidity.
“Ah…I feel better now.”
He said gulping down. “Thank you. This whole thing is very
embarrassing. I feel ridiculous. I am trying to become a warrior,
but it seems I still have a long way to go.”
“You could decidedly use
some work.” I was being generous.
The s’wit looked
saddened and sighed… “I am supposed to be a great warrior. It’s
expected of me. But I spend all my time training and I’m obviously still
not good enough.” He shrugged, covering his eyes with his hands. “Gah!
What would my tribe think of me if they knew I’d been rescued by an
Outlander? I mean an Outlander, for Azura’s sake,” he looked up quickly.
“I mean no offense of course.”
“Of course not…And it
not that bad, I mean they were pretty tough, for Clannfears, that is. And
there were three of them…” I tried hiding my smirk while spitting out these
words. I truly felt bad for the sap, and besides, he had pretty eyes…
“Thank you, but you
don’t understand…but how could you? You have no idea who I am or what I
have to do and why…”
“So tell me,” I said,
having a couple of hours to burn. I moved over to rocks near the entrance
and sat down, urging him to do the same.
“It’s not that simple,”
he said taking a seat. “It’s not something I’m free to discuss and
certainly not with Outlanders. All I will say is that I have a sacred
mission I need to carry out within Ghostfence on behalf of my tribe—and others.
But I’ve been training for a week now and I can’t even deal with monsters
on this side of the fence. How can I hope to survive if I go inside?”
Sacred Mission….what a
load of crap. What lies are they feeding this poor s’wit? I heard the
Dumner were religious, but this seemed like suicide. “If it’s a sacred
mission, shouldn’t the gods be protecting you, or something?” I stated, barely
hiding my disdain.
“Hah. That’s what
my mother says. She has incredible faith—in the gods and in me.
That’s why I have to succeed; I can’t stand the thought of disappointing
her. But I’m not sure I share her faith. Perhaps that is my
problem.”
“That’s not your only
problem. Who is this mother of yours?” I asked simply out of curiosity,
and thought to myself: what kind of mother sends their beloved son on suicide
mission—of course, what kind of mother abandons their newborn to fate?
“Mashti, my mother, used
to be a wise woman with the Ahemmusa, but now we live apart from the camp.
I suppose she’d be called a marbigash now.”
“A who-be-gash?”
“A marbigash.” he said
with an edge of frustration in his voice. “People often say that
wise-woman who lives apart from the tribe are witches who wield a dark magic,
and steal men’s life essence. But my mother only uses her magic for good
purposes.”
Sure she does.
Crazy witch, I thought while standing up. “Well, it was nice saving your
life and all, but I have to get those spells.”
A day past. I went
into Ghostgate and conducted business with several mages and priests, but all I
thought of was that stupid s’wit outside still training for his ‘sacred’ mission.
I don’t know if was the brandy, or his eyes, or even his naivety in
believing in something that didn’t exist, but whatever it was I went out and
talked to him again.
“Hey stranger, you’re
still out here. Still practicing the warrior stuff?”
He smiled and looked at
me earnestly. I couldn’t look at his face, it was a distraction. He said,
“You are stronger than me. And you say your name is Annika Blue and
you’re an adventurer.” He flashed a grin at me—dear god, could he tell?
“Tell me, Annika, do you ever adventure inside of the Ghostfence?”
Well, pretty boy if
there was something in it for me… “No, not yet, but I intend to.”
“I thought so—you’re
strong enough to deal with any of those ash monsters, or you soon will be.”
Now he was appealing to my vanity—which was legion. “I wonder,
Annika Blue, would you be willing to help me develop my skills? Would
consider training me? If my people knew, they would be horrified, but I
can’t see any other way. I’m just not getting anywhere training by myself.
I need guidance and you seem capable of giving it to me.” Oh was I
ever….He went on, “Outlander or not, you’re the only person I’ve met so far who
has helped me and perhaps that means something. And it’s not as if I’d be
a useless companion—I think I’d be a useful ally.”
“I’m sure.” You would be
fun to look at.
“Well,” he said speaking
rapidly. “I can levitate, breathe water and heal myself—provided I have enough
magicka, of course. I’m fast, agile, and I can repair your weapons.”
“Okay….”
“Gah! I’m an idiot!”
Glad I wasn’t the only one seeing this. “I still haven’t introduced myself!
My name is Julan Kaushibael, Hearthfriend of the Ahemmusa tribe.
Well…sort of.. I’m actually an outcast, but…uh…it’s complicated.”
“No doubt.”
“So what do you say, Annika
Blue, Do you think we’d make a good team?”
“Well, I don’t know how
good a teacher I’ll be, but you’re welcome to come along for a bit.” What
else could I say? I was afraid I’d break his heart if I said no.
After all, I wasn’t totally heartless, only slightly….
“Great. I have to
admit it was getting rather lonely hanging around here by myself. I’ll
let you take the lead, since I really don’t know Vvardenfell all that well...in fact this is the furthest I’ve been from home until now. But…look…”
he said staring beyond Ghostgate, into the fence, “since we’re here, can we try
going into Ghostfence? Not far, just inside the gate. I have to
get used to it. I just have to…”
“You mean you just want
to go in for a peek?” I asked incredulously.
“I was about to head
through Ghostgate onto the mountain when you arrived, actually. I’ve been
working up to it and I think I’m ready now. What do you say, Annika Blue?
Want to see what’s its like?”
“Well, if it will help
your sacred mission, why not?” I couldn’t believe I was doing this.
I suppose I could see if there was any loot up there….
We made our way through
the gate, though it seemed the moment we stepped on the other side I heard a
slight voice.“Uhh, Annika, I’m sorry.
I thought I was ready to travel on Red Mountain, but I’m not. I
know I’ll have to come here, but I just can’t. Not yet, not now.
Please let’s just get out of here.”
“Ok Julan, have it your way,” I said shortly.
Resigned to training a fool, I said “Let’s go.”
“Thank you, Annika.”
Day 37
“I…I am sorry for what happened back there, Annika.” Julan said
softly as we walked toward the silt strider in Ald-ruhn. “Gods, you must
think me an utter coward. But I swear this to you; I am a warrior.
I have never run from a fight and I do not fear death. I’m not
afraid of the ash monsters on Red Mountain, its something else….hard to
explain. I think it has to do with these strange visions I’ve been
having.”
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| Silt Strider Port Balmora |
I wanted to say “you too?”, but I remained quiet and let him
speak.
“I often dream that I’m climbing Red Mountain and its dark and the
air is filled with ash, getting into my eyes and mouth and it gets harder and
harder to keep moving. And there are all these voices surrounding me,
whispering things…”
“What kind of things, Jules?” I had taken to calling him
Jules, I think he kind of liked it. It’s like no one ever gave him a
nickname before. He called me Anni or Anne, depending on his mood and level of
frustration.
“I don’t know. I can’t understand what they are saying.
But they sound…strange. I mean, you’ve heard of Dagoth Ur, right?" he paused looking at me waiting for an assent. I just stared back blankly. "Even an Outlander must know about him—the devil who lives under the Red
Mountain, yes? Who is supposed make people go insane by sending them
dreams? Well...”
“You’re not going crazy on me are you, Jules?” I laughed at this.
“Seriously, it all sounds like a good story for a small child.” I
regretted those words the moment they came out of my mouth.
“No! I am not insane, and I’m not planning to be,” he
snapped. “Dagoth Ur is a powerful figure in our history and a legend—of course
lots of people dream about him….”
“Why?”
Julan sighed. “This is the best explanation I have, Anne.
Dagoth Ur is able to send his mind into the dreams of susceptible victims
across vast distances. The victims are either swayed by his compulsions
or driven mad.”
“Strange.”
“The times are strange, Anni. Look, I know you’ve just arrived to
Vvardenfell, but certainly you’ve heard of the things that are happening of
late.”
I had been sent to investigate cultist by Cosades, but knew of
little else. Hesitant to show my ignorance I just nodded then asked, “Does
he just send nightmares?”
“Oh, no, Annika. It’s much worse than that. He lulls
his followers into his cult, the Sixth House, then transmutes them in someway.
I know this sounds strange. Anyway, from what I’m told, he also seems
nearly invulnerable to physical and magical harm.”
“So he sends people dreams, and tempts them to join them and…makes
them into something else?”
“Something like that. It’s difficult to explain.”
“Apparently.” I looked over at Julan and stopped smirking.
This was not a joke to him and I think I made him feel foolish.
“I’m sorry Jules,” I said meekly. “That was tactless…and sometimes
I’m just, well, tactless. It was in poor taste. So why are your dreams
bothering you so much that can’t step foot on Red Mountain?”
“They aren’t. I mean…they won’t. I know it doesn’t
make sense. Just give me a little time, please. Maybe we could
carry on with my training; I think I need to take my mind off things.”
“Certainly. We have to head over to Balmora. I have a
job for us there.” We took the silt strider in to Balmora, and I think he was
amazed that a Bull Netch, a large flying flea, could provide such a smooth
ride. I hesitated momentarily before taking him back to my apartment, I
mean after all, half of the door was buried in a staircase, what would he think
of me? Would he laugh—of course, maybe that wouldn’t be so bad.
“This is your home?”
“Yep.”
“Well, don’t think me rude, but are you aware that half your door
is missing under ground?”
“Yeah, I noticed, but rents cheap and I’m beside a bar, any
questions?” We got inside and he
looked around. I had to admit that I had done well with furnishing the
place. Julan smiled and said “So, this is Balmora? It’s so grand!
Oh, Anni, can I ask you honestly, do I seem like a complete savage to
you?”
“No, Julan,” I said honestly. He looked like any other
Dunmer I had seen walking around—well perhaps a bit dirtier, but then so was I.
“I know how people view Ashlanders—violent, uncivilized barbarian
tribes, living in filth and squalor, obsessed with ancient superstitions.” He
paused and turned to me. “You settled types with your luxurious
lifestyles, you can’t understand why we might choose to live as we do, so
you think we must be ignorant savages. But we are proud of our culture.
We have things more valuable than the tasteless displays of our wealth
you get in cities like this.”
“I never said you were a savage, Jules. Believe it or not,
I’ve worked for everything I’ve had and frankly enjoy the amenities, but I can
also appreciate how the simple life can certainly make you see what is truly
important.”
“Exactly! Anni, you’re more open-minded than many
people—perhaps because you are an Outlander.” He paused again then spoke
softly, “How strange that you seem to understand me better than most native
Dunmer...but your view is rare; my people are viewed with suspicion in the
cities.”
“Yeah, but truthfully every new comer is. Julan, its not
just Ashlanders.”
“Well, be that as it
may… Anne, although I’m proud of my heritage, my mission must be kept secret,
and I worry that I look too conspicuous. What do you think?”
“Wear what you like,
Jules, but you could do with some decent weapons and armor. I’ll see what
we can do about that.”
Julan smiled at me and I
caught myself looking at him too long. He then uttered, “Look, I have no
idea about city customs so I’ll just let you decide what would be best, but if
you make look ridiculous, I’ll never forgive you!” He then grinned, but I knew
he did not want to look the fool—and I would see to it that he didn’t. I
had made several stops in port towns and cities since landing in Vvardenfell.
I went where ever business took me. I also stopped by some good
shops as I had to admit I had an insatiable habit for beautiful clothes.
Julan benefited greatly from this vice. Later, strolling to the
tavern—there were no questions or comments about his background; however, there
were stares from other women.
What should have been a
lovely evening in Balmora turned sour almost immediately. Foolishly, I
tried to kill two birds with one stone and had stopped by Cosades to drop
off a much anticipated package—a book on Vvardenfell that he lent me and asked
to have rebound. When I walked in with Julan, Cosades immediately became
enraged. “Do not bring him in to discuss official business!” Cosades
stated briskly, obviously high, not mention paranoid. Julan immediately
became pissy.
“What? I’m being kicked
out?” he hissed. “Fine. I’ll just leave you to your Very Important
Private Conversation. But I’m not standing around in the street like some
damned beggar! If you want me, I’ll be in the Southwall Corner Club.
Maybe some pretty Breton will buy me a drink.” I flashed a dark look
at Julan as he stomped out. I had to control my anger in front of
Cosades.
“Caius, this is the book
you asked for,” I stated meekly, “I am sorry for the misunderstanding with
Julan. I didn’t think if would upset you if I came back with him to return
your book. I had no intention of discussing Blades business with anyone
but you.”
“Annika, I can take no
chances anymore, with anyone, though I apologize if I have upset your friend;
though hope you’re not planning on forming any long term attachments as this
mission will require your full attention. I’m sorry to be so blunt about
this but it’s for your own good. You’re a pretty girl, and bound to attract
attention, but this mission must not be compromised. I’m sorry.” I
nodded slightly in assent, knowing I that I was a liar.
“Oh, and thank you for returning this book to me—it was a gift from my
wife. Gave it to me before I left Cyrodill for this wretched place.” He
turned from me, holding the book close to his chest. For a second I could
see the man he once was, with crystal blue eyes that smiled when he spoke, and
a sharp mind, I could see how once he would have been respectable, even
formidable. I don’t know what he did here, or what demons drove him to
this life, but in spite of his sugar habit and quixotic moods, I liked him.
“Your wife has good
taste in literature, I enjoyed the book,” I said, but I wasn’t sure he heard;
he seemed to be far off.. I then decided it best to leave Cosades to his
books, skooma and darkness. I could not follow his instructions. I
had no intention of letting Julan go. I walked along the river Odai, gleaming
in the lamplight to the South Wall Club. I was trying to figure out how
to smooth things over with Julan though when I arrived there was no point in
talking, he was already sloppily drunk.
“Well, helloooo Annika
Blue! Did you have a nice talk with your druggy man?”
“He’s not my man, Julan!
Mephala, you stink!” I was furious at this point. I hated drunks.
“Oh…wait…wait…wait…wait…I
forgot, I’m mad at you, aren’t I, because, because…Shit! I could
remember back before that fifth Mazte…Oh, yes. Because you make me go
away, like he was hiding something from me! I’ve got my eye
on that druggy man, you know. Or…I will…once I can focussss again.”
Julan then proceeded to puke all over my new dress, and managed to us
both thrown out of South Wall.
After cleaning up—both
him and myself, I started to ask, “Julan, why did you…”
He cut me off. “Oh
Annika, I’m sooo sorry, but no one has ever been as nice to be as you, except
Shani.” He then stumbled and fell on my bed, smacking his head against the
night stand, knocking over the water pitcher. I turned around and asked,
“Who the hell is Shani?” I got a loud snore in response. I had to step
back and gather myself together. Tomorrow would be a big job.
Day 39
“Gah!” Cold water in the
face first thing in the morning left Julan feeling none too pleased.
Tough. He staggered up and said “Oh, I’m so tired all of
sudden….maybe I should go to sleep,” he said yawning. “Don’t worry about
me, just leave me here and go on without me…”
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| "Helloooo Anni" |
My
rage boiled over at this point. I had told him previously we had an
important (and very lucrative) job to do. “I’m going to make a few stops,
but you better be up and ready to go or you can go without a trainer.”
“Mephala, Annika! What’s gotten into you?”
“Maybe you ask Shani!” I said as I walked out and slammed the door. I
left to see Hasphat, but really I would have made any excuse to leave. I
was tired of the smell of alcohol that was wafting off his body. That
scent brought back to much. I also needed to get out of my head for a few
minutes and prepare for what lay ahead.
My trip to the Fighter’s Guild was uneventful. I crossed the
Odai, leaving the slum for the commercial district. Upon arriving at the
Guild, I was lead to Hasphat, a dark haired Imperial, with a taste for
antiques. “So you’re with Caius, eh? And Caius wants information?
Of course there’s this-for-that involved. I require a favor first,
and then I’ll tell you what you want to know.” No surprise there,
knowledge is currency.
“What do you want Hasphat?”
“A Dwemer puzzle box. It’s in the ruins nearby called Arkngthand.”
Directions and a description were soon to follow. Hasphat was really
riled up about this little box…I wondered why he couldn’t send one of his
little fighters to get the job done; then I remembered—I was completely
expendable.
“Anything that I should know before hitting Arkngthand?”
“Make sure you have weapons and back.” Hasphat smirked.
“I expected as much.” I walked around for a few minutes and
decided I needed Julan. I had let him sleep for a time and thought he
might be ready. If he wasn’t, well, I’d cross that bridge when I came to
it. Walking in the door Julan was wide awake sitting on the bed.
“Gods, I feel awful...”
“What did you expect?” I
shot back angrily.
“How much did I drink,
Anni?”
“Enough. Who is
Shani?”
“Oh, shit.” He looked up
at me afraid then shook his head. “I hope I didn’t say anything embarrassing.”
I shrugged. “Well, if you must know, she was…a close friend.”
“No surprise there.” I
felt like a dozen glass arrows hit me at once. I took the blow admirably.
“I suppose you could say
that we were childhood sweethearts. We grew up together back when I used
to have more contact with the Ahemmusa camp than I do these days. I
always had a crush on her, but never actually expected her to feel the same
way. Turned out she did.” He smiled at the memory of this.
“Go on,” I uttered
coldly.
“Anyway we were nearly
adults by that time and you know how it is. Sneaking out at night to
meet, hiding from our parents. We thought we were really in love, us
against the world, all the usual stuff. Head in the clouds, really.”
“So what happened?”
“Mashti happened.
That’s what. She found out and told me to break it off with Shani.”
“You’re kidding me,
right?” I asked though I could tell by the look on his face, he was not.
“Are you a man or scrib?”
He looked up, shaking
his head. “You don’t understand. Mashti was right. I didn’t see
that at the time, of course. I yelled, swore and absolutely refused.
We had a huge row, and I left home in a rage. Lived in the
mountains for a week and then the dreams started getting to me. I had time
to think about everything, and sadly I realized my mother was right.”
I shrugged my shoulders
in disgust. “You let your mommy make that decision? Tell me, does
she dress you too?”
Julan took a deep
breath, and looked at me directly. “Annika, I had responsibilities that I
had to fulfill—duties to my people that went beyond my feelings for one person.
Shani, was distracting me, stopping me from doing what I had to do,
because I had started to forget my mission. If I really cared about her,
I had to leave her and concentrate on training. Anything else would have
hurt her in the long run.”
“That’s a load of
guarshit and you know it! I can’t believe you!” Truly I was blessed
by Azura, or whoever to see this side of him before I took things any further.
“Don’t Annika, please.
You don’t understand. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.
I’m sure she’ll never forgive me—and that’s probably for the best I
suppose. The relationship probably would have ended on its own anyway,
but I still wonder…you, know, how things might have turned out.”
Ouch. I took a
deep breath and said, “Let’s get to work Julan.” I spent some time training him
on sword play, but in truth, he was nearly as skilled as I was. “Jules,
let me see if I can get someone to work with you, I recently met someone at the
South Wall that may be of some assistance.”
I went next door
and spoke with a character named Tres who agreed to work with Julan and myself
for a fee. I went back to the house and fetched him. Julan
looked pained but remorseful.
“Come to yell at me some more?” he asked.
“No. Are you ready for training? We have to get ready
to go, unless you’ve changed your mind.”
“No,” Julan stated looking directly at me. “I haven’t changed my
mind and I’m ready when you are.”
“Good,” and we walked out the door. Entering Southwall, I
turned to him, “Jules, we’re going to hit something big, and I need you to be
at your best. I’ll pay for your training, but I have to know if you’re
game.”
“I’ll do what I can.” Julan said. There was no hesitation.
We both trained hard, and after a few days I believed we were as ready as
we’d ever be. We set out for this Arkngthand. Nervously, I twirled my
hair as we walked, thinking. I had done big jobs before, but never for the
Empire. Something told me there was more at stake then just some gold
pieces.
Day 38
 |
| Arkngthand |
In the distance, walking along a rocky path I saw a strange
structure that I could only assume was the ruin. Large iron buildings of
a strange design rose from the earth. They were like nothing I had ever
seen before; the reliefs on the turrets remarkable. Had I not been there
to do a job, I might have studied them harder, though to what end I didn’t
know. I remember as a child hearing stories of the Dwemer from an old
priest who talked incessantly about them. They were a secular people, who
chose to worship reason rather than demigods. Sadly the entire race
disappeared from the whole of Tamriel, for reasons unknown. What were
left in their place were a backward and superstitious people.
During the last stretch of the journey Julan was remarkably quiet.
No words were exchanged as I hit the crank open a large iron door.
We walked in to a dimly lit, cavernous room. I could hear his heavy
breathing as we were approached by several nameless denizens, attacking us on
sight. I was impressed as Julan did not flinch at the violence. His
movements were fluid and swift. He and I made short work of any smugglers
who crossed our path.
“Mephala, Jules, you’re good!” He smiled hearing that as we
ran down the long rusted corridor to an entrance way marked Heaven’s Gallery.
We had been attacked on all fronts, but had remained victorious. Julan
was quick with his spells where I was quick with the sword. We
complimented each other on every level—at least in combat...
“Where is that damned puzzle box?” I said throwing my torch
across the room in disgust. We spent hours racing through the maze-like
ruins. It wasn’t until I nearly given up, coming out of the Hall of
Centrifuge (and yes they all had those ridiculous names) where we had started
that saw glint of something, perhaps a light. Stepping back then looking up, I
saw an upper level that I hadn’t noticed before. “Well, toll-loll. Looks
like we overlooked something, Jules.”
“These places are so weird, Anni. What do you suppose really
happened to the Dwemer?”
“I’m not sure. To be honest, Jules, I had heard few tales of
the Dwemer before I landed in Vvardenfell. I’ve only been here a several
weeks, so this is all new to me.”
“Yet you have been all over the place on the mainland, haven’t
you?” he asked as we ascended several flights of stairs.
“I spent some time in
Chorrol—most my life, actually. I then traveled to Anvil and then the
Imperial City.”
“You spent time in the
Imperial City?” He seemed astounded. Personally, I hated the place.
“More time then I would
have liked, Jules.” I let the subject drop; we had things to do. Boss
Crito was the last smuggler guarding a small room and he was a snap, literally.
I found the puzzle box in the back of a shelf—I wasn’t sure if the
thieves actually knew what they had, but the job was done and we were alive.
“Gods, we made it!
Oh, Anni….” We hugged each other, forgetting earlier animosity for a
moment. He stopped and whispered, “We should make our way back.”
“Yes.”
We walked silently through the starry night.
 |
| Breaking and Entering |
Day 41
Hasphat Antabolis was pleased with his pretty little
prize. He started talking to me about the Nerevarine and Sixth House.
I could see Julan was slightly uncomfortable with this line of
conversation. I hoped his “sacred mission” had nothing to do with either
subject. Hasphat, mercifully just handed me his notes on the Sixth House.
Apparently they were a bunch of cultist who worshipped Vvardenfell’s
boogie man, Dagoth Ur. “House Dagoth, or the Sixth House, as its called
now was once on of the great houses or tribes of Vvardenfell. Much like
the Redoran or Telvanni. It was lead by Dagoth Ur then and now he is
drawing in new worshippers and cultist.” I nodded taking the notes from
Hasphat. Julan looked over at me as we walked out of the Fighters Guild.
“I suppose you’ll be taking those notes to Cosades now, will you?
I don’t like the sound of all this. Why would an old skooma addict
be interested in the Sixth House? And why would he be so secretive about
it?”
I shrugged. “I have no idea. This is just a job.” This
was the truth. I had no concern for the Dagoth or his worshippers.
Let him have all the mindless zombies he wanted.
“Let me see those notes,” Julan snatched them out of my hand. “Why
does Cosades want to know this stuff about House Dagoth? That’s something
best left alone. It’s bad luck to even talk about things like this,”
Julan lectured.
“It’s just talk,” I said innocuously. “It’s just some crazy cult.
They’re all over the place.”
“No, Annika, its not just some cult. There’s more to it then
that. I hope Cosades knows what he’s doing…but what am I saying? He
an ignorant Outlander…of course he doesn’t know what he’s doing.”
“Gee, thanks Jules. You’re only slightly offensive,” I
smiled. “Well, the night is young, and I hear music playing, so lets go
have drink before I’m forced to run you through,” I laughed. I dropped
the notes off to Caius and he advised me to see the Orc Sharn –gra-Muzgob about
the Nerevarine Cult. I told him I’d see her first thing on the morrow.
I then met Jules outside the Market Tavern. Walking towards him he grinned at me wickedly
and looked me up and down—no subtlety there.
“You look beautiful, Anni,” he said in a low voice, that sent
shock waves through me.
“You look like yourself,” I gulped. Julan laughed softly then opened the
door. A rush of cold air and smoke rose
from the enterance.
Walking in the crowded, dimly lit bar I heard the sound of a woman’s voice. I stopped for a second and turned towards the
Dunmer beauty on stage. The minstrel was
playing some native tune, soft and haunting. Julan swayed slightly and
sang along though terribly out of tune. He looked over at me, blushing.
“This was lullaby Mashti sang to me.” I nodded, staring at him.
Suddenly the music and singer changed. He glanced back over towards me,
“Tell me pretty girl, do you Bretons know how to dance?” his lips curved in
laughter.
I gulped. The smoke and lights were already a heady mixture
and my heart was pounding as reached out to him. I had no idea what the
mistral was singing about, but the beats were sensual and rhythmic.
I felt his hips moving alongside mine and his breath against my
face; I felt dizzy. Looking up at him his gaze catching mine, my pulse pounded;
his lips inches from mine. I parted mine to meet his. Suddenly, the music
stopped, we backed away slowly. Turning, I noticed we had gathered a
crowd.
“So you can dance, Anni,” he said in a quite murmur. “I didn’t
expect that.”
“And I didn’t expect that Ashlanders danced at all…being so
pious…and…,” my voice trailed.
“What?” His grin dropped. “Anne, you know nothing about my
people…or me.”
“I’m…sorry.” I stuttered clumsily as I knew, once again, I
had tripped over my words.
He looked towards the bar. “I’m getting a drink.”
“And I’m calling it a night. I’ll see you tomorrow, Julan.”
He nodded was then lost in a sea of people. I headed home. The night air was hot and sticky and I had had too much to drink;
restlessly tossing and turning I decided to go out and sit on my stoop.
Watching the night slowly bleed into morning, I came to the sad
realization that I would not be sleeping. There was too much on my mind.
I could not decide what to do about Julan. The more time I spent
with him the lines became blurred. I knew that I had thought more of him
then merely a tagalong or an extra pair of hands—more than something useful.
From the first I was attracted to him and I did nothing to stop it; I had
hoped we would have had a brief fling and by now Julan would be a piece of my
history, but that was not the way it’s played out. I was also bothered
that he kept me at a distance. Julan had not put the make on me and there
had been every opportunity. He had become a liability, but I had done
nothing to stop it. Walking back in, I watched Julan sleep on the floor,
I had a nagging feeling that something was about to go terribly wrong.
“Wake up,” I said as coldly as possible, “we have things to do.
I’ve been given another assignment. We’re heading to the Mages
Guild.” He gave a puzzled look and mumbled something under his breath. Already
in foul mood from lack of sleep, Julan
and I trugged in a trance like state towards the Mages Guild. Upon entering Julan added his two cents—of
course.
 |
| There something not right about her: Sharn |
“You know the trouble with the Mages Guilds? They’re full of
mages,” he laughed. Hilarious. “And Anni, that Orc over there makes me
nervous, there’s something not right about her,” he whispered as we approached
an Orcish woman who I could only assume was Sharn, grinding up what appeared to
be some sort of bone.
“Of course there’s not, but unless she’s asking us to murder women
and children, I’m not going to make a big deal about it.”
“Even if she did, I’m doubtful you would say much for the right
price,” he snapped.
“Julan,” I sighed wearily, “lets keep it above the belt, at least
this early in the morning.”
“If you—.” I cut him off before he could say anything else that
would catapult me in a worse mood, if that was possible.
“Sharn, it’s good to meet you. I’m Annika Blue. Caius sent
me.” The Orc did not even look up from her work. She went along grinding
the bone into powder and muttering to herself. I prompted her again.
“Sharn gra-Muzgob?”
“No,” she said raising her hand before I could say anything else.
“No interruptions! How many times…Oh, wait,” she paused, putting her bone
down and turning towards me. “You are one of Caius’s associates?” I
nodded. “Now that’s a different matter completely. Caius and I have
a very satisfactory arrangement, and I’m sure we can come to some sort of
agreement, if you will do a little errand for me.”
“Let’s have it, Sharn.”
“It’s simple. I need the skull of Llevule Andrano,” Sharn
said this like she was asking me to pick up a handful of daisies. Julan
was spot on—she’s not right—at all. Sharn gave me directions to the Andrano
Ancestral Tomb and advised me to take precautions and added that Dunmer take
grave objection to unauthorized tomb visits.
“Because it’s wrong!” Julan shouted. “The dead are supposed
to be left to their sleep undeterred.”
Sharn looked at Julan as if he was a petulant three year old then
turned to me. “Will you do it, Annika?”
“Of course,” I said without hesitating. Julan stormed off
immediately. When I got outside he was standing against the wall for me with
eyes burning.
“How could you?” he spat.
“Easily, Julan. I need to complete this mission. The
stakes are higher than you could possibly imagine and, no I will not tell you
why. I’m sure I’ll be asked to do all sorts of horrific things and if you
are afraid to get dirty, or in your case dirtier, then go back to Ald-ruhn for
awhile, or maybe Ghostfence where you can find a trainer that meets your
pristine standards.” I started to walking away, then Julan grabbed and
spun me around. An eternity passed as we stared at each other, eyes
burning; silently, we argued without saying a word. Finally, he dropped
my hand, shaking his head. I smiled slightly and started walking. I
heard his footsteps follow behind.
We walked in sullen silence for a short time, speaking only when
necessary. I watched the mushroom trees blow in the wind and kanet petals fly
across the grass. There was a sense of peace and gentility all around us.
Finally Julan spoke, “Anni, what do you know about the gods we worship?”
“Strange question,” I said looking at him.
“Not really. You’re about to walk into a house of the dead—a
tomb. I was just wondering if you worshiped the same gods on the
mainland.”
I don’t worship anything, I thought, but then I remembered what
Red had said about the Dunmer being super religious. No need to offend
Julan anymore than I already was—I needed his help. “Most people worship
the Nine Divines.”
“Thought there was only eight.”
“Well, when you become Emperor, you can call yourself a god too,”
I winked.
He smirked. “I just wondered what the difference was.”
“Well, it’s a difference in godhead be assured, but I guess it’s
also difference in intensity, but its hard for me to describe it as I was raised
on Abbey grounds.” I thought for a moment, cringing at the memory.
“The town’s people saw the Imperial cults and temples as a social club or
venerated trade house. Priests and Preistesses were another matter
entirely. Some actually believed in what they preached—though most
didn’t. Correct me if I’m wrong Julan, but Dunmer tend have more direct
relationships with their gods.”
“Most Ashlanders worship their ancestors, so yes, it is very
personal.”
“Hah. I’ve heard you Dumner are as religious as priests,”
He looked at me with a raised eyebrow. “No need to be insulting,
Anni, I was just curious.”
“No insult intended, just kidding.”
“It’s not a laughing matter.”
“Depends on who you ask,” I said, tossing a kwarma egg in his
direction. “Eh, let’s sit a spell.”
“Can you pass me some wine?” He sip and closed his eyes
savoring the taste. “This is good. Nothing like this in the camps.”
“Meh,” it was ok, but good wine was a birth right in Cyrodill.
Even my abbey had a small vineyard. The finest wines and brandies
were made there, but I saw his face and quickly agreed, “Its good stuff.”
“Hmmph.” Julan looked off raising a brow. I knew that had
come out wrong, a tad condescending.
We sat for a time without speaking, quietly devouring our food.
The sun was beginning to set when I stood. We headed south into the heart
of the Ascadian Isles. The land was beautiful, even draped in night.
Pastoral ranches and manors dotted the landscape. About half way to
Pelagiad I saw something standing along the road. “What in gods name is
that?” I heard crying.
 |
| Damsel in Distress: Maurie Aurmine |
“What?”
“Over there,” I said grabbing Julan by the shoulders and pointing
ahead to what looked like a woman.
“Ooohhh, a damsel in distress!” Julan of course bounded straight
over to the weeping Breton woman standing along side the road.
Maurie Aurmine, the weeping woman, stopped us and said “Begging
your pardon. Have you seen a bandit nearby? I must find him!”
My mind quickly jumped to Nels, “Uh, depends on what bandit you’re
looking for.”
“Well, I was just walking along here, minding my own business,
then suddenly a bandit jumped at me from behind. He was a dark elf—a
strong, dashing dark elf. He didn’t harm me in any way, although he did
take my jewels.” Her eyes glazed over at this point and I wondered if she was
quite sane. “He was quite gentle and he talked to me for what seemed like
forever.”
“So you want me to find him and get your jewels, back right?” I
asked having no idea at this point what to expect.
“What’s that?” Now I’m sure she was stoned off sugar. Maurie
went on, “Oh, never mind the jewels! I just want to find that bandit
again. He was charming and funny and I simply must see him again.”
I heard stifled laughter behind me.
“I’m floored, I’m just utterly floored. What’s this bandit’s
name?” I asked in disbelief.
“Nelos Onmar…a name that will stay on my lips for eternity.”
Maurie seemed to have a flair for the dramatic—a bored girl with access to too
many books. “Perhaps you can find him for me. Please, I cannot live
without knowing if he could ever love me. I have nothing to offer you in
return, but could you not help me for the sake of love, uh… ”
“Annika Blue, and this is Julan Kaushbael. And yeah, I guess
we could help.”
“You’ll try? Oh, thank you, thank you a million times over.”
I thought she would break into song. “I’m not sure you’ll be able
to find him. He mentioned something about heading to head north so I
imagine he might be found in Pelagiad. Please, if you find him give him
this glove for me, as a token of my love. I’m certain he will want to
find me again!”
“I’ll try and find him, Maurie.” When I said that I noticed
immediately that Julan’s demeanor had changed. We were back to cold, and
it was going to be a long walk.
“I didn’t think you were so unfeeling.” Julan said shortly out of
earshot of Maurie.
“What do you mean?”
“Leading that poor girl
on like that. Saying you’ll find someone when you won’t, after all,
what’s in it for you?”.
“Julan, I have every
intention of finding that man. I too believe in chance encounters.”
“Really?” He asked
earnestly.
“Yes.”
“So you’re familiar with
that bandit, Nelos Onmar?
“No Jules, not that
bandit.” We headed south.
Day 41
By day break we had reached Andrano Ancestral Tomb. “Well,
this looks like the right tomb,” Julan said, pausing for effect.
“Honestly, I think we could just pick up any old skull for her. How
do you tell them apart anyways?”
I shrugged. “Oh, I’m sure Sharn would find a way, involving us
hanging from our feet.” Impulsively I grabbed Julan’s hand and said, “Friend, I
am truly sorry for this.”
“I’ve a feeling that’s not the first time I’ll hear those words,
Annika.” His eyes held my gaze for a moment, then he turned from me.
“Just the same, Jules,” I said softly. We pried open the enterance to
the tomb; a strong odor hit me as the door swung open. I forced down the
bile in my throat and silently we made our way down a small, unlit corridor.
In the dark hall I tripped over a large object. Lighting the torch
I saw it was a slightly decomposed body. “Ugh… Great. I love being
greeted by a corpse, some thief, no doubt.” Hearing a screech, I soon saw
the poor bastard’s demise.
“Die, fetcher!” Julan screamed and vanquished the Ancestor Ghost
with a fire spell. He ran down the hall with me chasing after him.
Without looking or listening, Julan swung open the door directly in front
of us. Idiot! Immediately, I was struck as the first arrow that flew from
a Skeletal Warrior. “Annika!” Julan shouted. I motioned for him to
take the Bonewalker from behind while I made short work of the bastard that hit
me.
“Annika, are you ok?” he asked, catching his breath. The
Bonewalker, the disgusting creature, a summoned thing protecting the tomb, had
vanished and joined his lord in Oblivion.
“Peachy, Jules. Oh and a new weapon for you. It’s about time
you earned something for your work.” I handed over a quiver of spark
arrows and a good long bow, still nursing my arm.
“Thanks, Anni. Are you badly hurt?”
“I’ll survive.” My arm was throbbing, but I wanted to get
out of this tomb before I healed it. For now I’d live. Finally,
several doors and many skeletons later we found the lonely skull of Llevule
Andrano.
“So you found it?” Julan asked surprised. “Well let me know
when you’ve tire of skeletons, and we’ll go.”
“Yeah, I think were done robbing this poor man’s crypt.”
“A thought, Anni…How do you know it’s his? Did his mother
sew his name into it?”
I had to laugh, “No Jules, the markings on the tomb are pretty
clear..”
“Say, how’d think he died? Do you think that freak Sharn had
something to do with...uh his demise?”
“Probably. Maybe too much Orc for a man.”
“I really didn’t want to think on that…Now I’ll really have
nightmares.”
I said laughing, “Well, it will take your mind off old Dagoth,
won’t it?”
“I guess…Kind of like breaking a foot to cure a hangnail.
Let’s get out of here, Anni.”
We walked out of the tomb toward daylight. “How’s that arm?
Let me see it.” Julan gently lifted my arm away from my chest, where I
had been cradling it. He smiled as our eyes made contact, quickly I
turned away.
“Augh…Careful, Julan.” He cast a spell of healing which only
left my right shoulder slightly stiff. “Thank you.”
“My pleasure,” he said looking at me, “Annika the Brave.”
I paused for a second and gulped, shifting my eyes to the
ground. “Well,” I said clearing my throat, “let’s get really brave and
head over to Pelagiad. We can unload some of this loot and maybe even
find that sexy rouge that likes ladies gloves…but wait...” I stopped
mid-sentence as I saw a small path leading to mine. Thieves dens were
often old mines where smugglers hid their loot. They were dangerous, but
occasionally the risk paid off. “I see a cavern ahead, Jules. Want to hit
it?”
Looking me up and down and said “Always.”
Upon entering the mine, we didn’t really encounter any resistance
until meeting up with a heavily armed woman, and though not as easy as the
others, she went down quick enough. A sorcerer nearly killed me—if it
hadn’t been for that healing potion and Julan’s arrow.“Mephala! You take too many damned risks, Anni!” shouted Julan
after he hit some nameless warlock. “You’re reckless and it’s going to cost us
both!”
“If, you can’t take the heat Jules…”
“Shit, Anne!” he shouted. “Oh, what’s the point? Lets
get this over with and we’ll speak later.”
“Yes,
father...” I laughed and he grunted. When we finally reached the heart of
the den, I found more loot then I could carry. Begrudgingly, after being
chided by him, I handed Julan some of the bounty. “Here. Make the
most of it. Let’s get to Pelagiad while there’s still light.”
Pelagiad was close; you could see the Imperial garrison from the cave.
We stopped in first at Uulernil, the Armoror. He was an unusually
tall High Elf, and his unpleasantness was in equal proportion to his height.
I never liked the Altmer, or High Elves, as they were always pretentious
and droll; their yellow skin was as sallow and dull as their personalities.
I decided I would have some fun at his expense.
He started on me as soon as I dropped the armor on his counter.
“What, then? How did you get all this?” I just looked at him
blankly. He continued his tirade. “Lost your way to tavern to get
soused?” He then turned Julan, “Looking for a courtesan to
lighten your coin purse?” Ugh. I hated nosy people. I’d make him wish he never asked me.
“Actually sir, I have to sell this armor so I can pay that man
over there for sex,” I said motioning toward Julan who promptly started
coughing loudly. Uulernil, stuttered a barely coherent “yes..sera…” and a
few more things under his breath about light women and such. Leaning over
the counter I added, “Please hurry this up, the gentleman charges by the hour.”
Walking out Uulernil’s shop, Julan stopped in front of me.
“What?” I feigned innocence.
“I cannot believe you said that,” he grimaced. “Was it
really necessary?”
“He was a s’wit and it was funny. Besides, I get tired of the
attitudes I encounter everywhere we go.”
“You were a bit harsh and frankly I was a more than a bit
embarrassed, but yeah, I have been dealing with suspicion all my life and grow
tired of it, but Anne…it’s just…well…it was funny, though I think you’re
certifiable.”
“Perhaps, but look on the bright side Jules, at least you’re never
bored. Let’s go to the haberdasher, and ask about Onmar. Hopefully, he’s
more pleasant.”
Mebestian Ence, the haberdasher was the complete opposite of his
neighbor. A slight man with a quick wit, he started gossiping as we
walked in the door. “I get the weirdest customers sometimes….” Mebestian, who
asked us to call him Ence, then told me about some dark looking man in a
holocaust coat who tried to sell him an over priced funeral ritual book, bound
in human flesh.
 |
| Ence and a odd hat |
“Probably, his ex-wife,”
I quipped.
“Perhaps his former
trainer,” snarked Julan.
“Touché.”
“Oh you two are so
funny,” Ence said. “Say have you met my neighbor Ur-rin-al?”
“Of course,” I said.
Then I regaled him with the tale of our first encounter. Ence
laughed so hard he fell off his stool.
“Oh, Annika. I
knew I’d like you right away. What brings you to Pelagiad?”
“Nelos Onmar. Seems he’s made away with a maiden’s heart,
not mention her jewels.”
“Really?”
“Yes. Maurie Aurmine.”
“Hmm…Can’t say I know her, but you know those rich-girl types.
Always off for a fling with a handsome highway man. Anyways, you
can find Nelos at the half-way tavern.”
“Ehhh, I was hoping you’d tell me he was away. I don’t want
to see that girl’s heart smashed by some thief.”
“Well, he seems like a nice enough fella,” said Ence.
“But,” I waited.
“Well it’s just,” Ence leaned in, “he really needs to get off his
backside and find a decent job. I offered him stable employment here, but
he turned me down without batting an eyelid.”
“Hmmm. Maybe he’s found a new employer in Maurie.
Thanks, Ence.”
“Please come back soon Annika and Julan, it was fun. Oh and
tell me what happens between our star-crossed lovers, will you?”
“Will do.” I said, and meant it.
As we were walking towards the Halfway Tavern, I turned to Julan,
“That was fun. Glad he wasn’t as humorless as his neighbor. It’s
good to make new friends.”
“It’s always nice to have girlfriends,” quipped Julan.
“Be nice,” I said tartly. We walked across the street to the
Halfway Tavern. “Oh, we’re here,” I exhaled. I was dreading this as I
didn’t want to explain Nels Llendo. I had hoped he had been off with some
other willing victim.
From Ence’s description I spotted Nelos Onmar quickly. He
was sitting in the corner by himself. I walked over to him and smiled.
 |
| Nelos |
“Annika Blue, the pleasure’s truly mine. Beauty such as
yours should not go unremarked; to gaze in your eyes is to see the divine,”
Nelos offered me his wrist with dancing eyes. “See for yourself. Is my
pulse not pounding?” He laughed softly. “Ah, do not be offended, sera, I
could not help myself. But I am being rude. Nelos Onmar is my name.
What can I do for you?”
“Bah,” said Julan, “I’m going to the bar.”
“It’s more about what I can do for you, Nelos,”
I said quickly. “Turns out your
charm worked its way in
Maurie Aurmine’s good graces. She’s offered you her glove and heart.”
Nelos looked shocked, “You have what?” he said disbelievingly.
“How…odd. She was a lovely young woman, but what would she want
with a rouge like me? She’s beautiful though, and seemed kind. For
the first time in my life, I actually felt a little remorse for robbing
someone. I should see her again,” he said with conviction. “Tell her you
have note from Nelos. I must see her again. I won’t forget this
friend.”
I walked quickly over to Julan as I saw Nels Llendo walking through
the door. Julan smiled at me, raising a glass and said, “Since we’re in a
tavern, why don’t we have a drink?” I could tell Julan had already had a few,
so I knew what I was in for. I quickly acknowledged Nels with a nod as he
passed by me and stared. Julan caught the look, and said loudly, “Hey is
that guy giving you the eye? Is there something happening between you two
that I should know about?”
I stammered quickly, “Uh, lets go Jules. We have to gossip—I
mean talk—to Ence. We’ll drink with him.”
He didn’t stop and actively started picking a fight, “He looks
like fool, talks like a fool and yet women chase him!” he said, noting the
harem surrounding Nels.
“Let’s go, Julan!” I managed with great effort to get him
out the door. I told Julan honestly that I received from training from
Nels.
“In what, tongue kissing?” he snapped.
“Short sword, actually.”
“Well when you want long sword, come see me!” he snarled and
brushed past me.
“Ai…Let’s just go talk to Ence and find Maurie, Jules.” We met up
with Ence as he was preparing for bed, but readily he opened the door when he
saw it was us. I had read the letter myself offering to share its contents with
Jules though he feigned disinterest but asked what it said as I put it away.
I gave him a look and took it out again for both him and Ence “It says : Truly,
I was enchanted with you from the moment I saw you. I beg your
forgiveness for my past transgressions. While I cannot imagine what a
woman of your beauty and breeding would see in a rouge such as me, I thank the
gods that you have sent for me. I will come to you as soon as I can.
Until then.”
“Oh what stuff…Annika you are a treasure.” Ence then treated
us both to Cyrodillic Brandy and tea.
“What foolishness,” Julan spat.
“Hey you’re the one who was so inclined to help her,” I pointed
out. After a few drinks, I finally said, “Oh, let’s go and finish playing
matchmaker. Ence, tell me if he goes to her or she to him. It
should be interesting. I’ll try to stop back soon.”
“Thanks, Annika….for livening up this sleepy little town.”
We found Maurie still along side the road. I thought
she had been paralyzed by a scrib, no, she was love struck. Maurie was
elated that Nelos wanted her too. “Good luck to you both,” said Julan
with more sincerity than I could muster.
We reached Balmora late
that night and hit the Market Place Tavern. Another band was playing and
we had all we could drink, though no dancing, at least not like the other
night. After the fifth Matze Julan wanted to pick a fight (again) with an
Ordinator. Time to go. As we crashed through the front door (which
was already damaged) Julan moved unsteadily toward me and took my hands. “I’m
sooo sorry for giving so much trouble Annika Blue. Thank you for rescuing
me from the Clannfears and for training me and for not hitting me very hard
when I spilled Mazte all down your front.” He then fell in the chair. I don’t know
if it was the booze talking or if he genuinely meant what he said, but it was
certainly good to hear.
“It’s alright.
Good night Jules.”
“Good night, Anni.”
Day 43
“Uhh, my belly.” I
had been drinking too much recently. I guess that’s what comes from
hanging out with a lush.
Julan lifted his head off the pile of clothes on the floor. “Gah.
Why’d you let me drink so much?”
“Cause I wanted to see you dance on the table; by the way, good
show!” Julan, playfully tossed a pillow across the room hitting (once
again) my water pitcher.
“That thing’s going break, Jules.”
“I’ll take my chances.”
“Eh. Let’s go eat
then visit that freak Sharn,” I said rising slowly. We walked past
the stores to a street vendor selling kwarma eggs. We ate a few to settle
our stomachs then entered the Mages Guild where we found Sharn tinkering with
something that looked like some unfortunate’s entrails.
She looked up from her
work as I tossed her a bag with the skull wrapped in paper. “Ah, Annika!
You got it.” Sharn said. Gods that woman scared me.
“Uh, yeah.”
“Not sure we should give
it to you, though,” said Jules. I shot him a look.
“Very good,” she said peering into the bag. “Perfect for
what I have in mind.” I shuddered. “I’ll answer any questions you have about
the Nerevarine Cult and give you the notes I’ve prepared.”
“I guess all I need to know is what the Nerevarine Cult actually
is and what are its plans in Vvardenfell.” Sharn went into detail about
the Nerevarine Cult, though I must admit I was barely paying attention. I
figured I’d just read the notes like I always do. I noticed, however,
that Julan was listening intently.
“Ooohh, hand them over, please," he asked as usual, never waiting for a yes.
“Hmmm. Well, she knows her stuff, I’ll give her that. But what does
some your druggie man want to know all this for? It doesn’t make
sense. Why is Cosades asking you to find out about the Nerevarine, by
Azura?”
“Jules, it’s just a job.”
“You keep saying that,” remarked with suspicion in his voice.
“I say that because it’s true. Now let’s see if we can get
you some training around here.”
“Well, don’t bother asking Sharn. What’s she going to teach
me, how to turn a prince into a frog?”
“Well, you’re hardly a prince, so I don’t see how it could hurt.”
We spent several hours training with the other mages—everyone
except for Sharn, though I doubted she noticed the snub as she was too busy with
sera Andro’s skull. Later, we headed back to the Market Place Tavern for
lunch. Julan looked thoughtfully over his crabmeat and eggs for a moment then
spoke. “Thank you for training me, Anni, I can see I’m improving already.
I suppose I just needed someone else to encourage me and check my
technique. But I was thinking,” he paused, swallowing, “I really don’t
know much about you other than you’re from the mainland—Chorrol, I believe and
you spent time in the Imperial City. Tell me more.” I sighed
and closed my eyes. I knew this was coming. I stared off in the distance,
avoiding eye contact. Julan asked with his mouth half full. “So tell me
Anni, how did you come to Vvardenfell?”
“On board a prison ship, actually,” I said flatly.
“You’re a convict???? By Azura, you’re not on the run, are
you?”
I glared at him. “Yeah, and I’m planning on a murderous crime
spree, hijacking a silt strider and taking you as hostage…”
Julan choked on his food. “Wha—Oh. You’re joking.
Hilarious. So what really happened?”
“I was released. I’m an ex-con now.” I said as calmly as
possible. Please gods no more details. I couldn’t tell him—not yet.
I felt a lump growing in my throat.
“Released? Here in Vvardenfell? Hmmph! As if the
Empire hasn’t done enough damage without deciding to dump their criminals on
us!”
Angrily, I stood up and retorted, “Yes, I should kept my criminal
tendencies overseas and left you to get eaten by Clannfears.”
“I’m sorry, Anne. I didn’t mean it personally—you are a good
person,” he said nervously, moving his food around the plate. “Well, at
least I think. Um…so…were you guilty? Of whatever it as you…uh…did
to get locked up?”
Staring off into space for a few moments, I took a deep
breath…”Yes, Julan, I was guilty, but I believe what I did was right—no choice.
And one day…when…” I couldn’t continue, embarrassed my eyes were full of
unshod tears. Julan grabbed my arm and turned me to face him.
“I believe you, Anni. I’m not sure why, but I do.
You’ve been a good friend to me, helping out like this and I’m loyal to
my friends. And even if you were lying, I’m willing to judge you on your
present actions, no matter what you did in the past. So! Shall we get
going?” I nodded in assent as we made our way to Cosades. How many
more times would I have to have this conversation?
We walked past an armor store and headed in. I looked for
more trainers and a master’s repair hammer for Julan, as I was tired of paying
for repairs—came up with nothing. Walking along the Odai, towards
Cosades, Julan stopped then said the one thing I had been dreading.
“Annika, I’ve been thinking… All your hard work has paid off, I
believe. Thank you so much. I really think I’m ready to face the
Red Mountain—I feel like I could take on anything! Right….I’m heading
back to Ghostgate,” He said quickly.
I stared in utter silence.
He kept going. “Say, do you want to keep me company for a little
longer? Just over to Ghostgate and through the fence to the foot of the
mountain? It’s been good to have some one to talk to, you know.
I’ll miss traveling with you. But I need to get on with my sacred
mission.” I thought it odd that he brought this up shortly after lunch
and our conversation regarding my way of arrival to Vvardenfell. His
speech seemed a little canned—decidedly rehearsed. Perhaps this was for
the best—I had gotten too close. From the first I knew this would hurt
and sadly my instincts were right. I gathered my reserve and answered as
nonchalantly as possible.
“Sure, we’ll be heading that way soon.”
“Great! Let’s get going! You’re not busy are you?”
“Let me get these notes
to Cosades and get paid. We’ll stop at my house and get some supplies.
We’ll need them.”
 |
| Leaving Balmora |
