Chapter 16

Chapter 16: The Telvanni Bride

Day 204

“Greetings, friend,  I am Fjol” said a scruffy looking Nord we encountered, as we walked across the bridge to Hla Oad.  Julan and I had been ambling through the Bitter Coast region for three days; I believe the oppressive heat was getting the best off us. This Fjol had been standing there as we crossed; I had guessed he was a highway man of sorts.  “You should take care while in these parts,” he advised.  “There are outlaws all about.  No telling what might happen to an unwary traveler.”

          “Really?” I asked incredulously.

       “Oh, yes, these are dangerous times,” he said eagerly.  “They’ll rob you blind and cut your throat without giving it a second though.  It’s a bad idea to carry anything on of value on you.  In fact, its probably best you give me that gold of yours…100 septims, perhaps?  I think you’ll find the way less dangerous if you do.”

        “Oh, but we have so much more than that!  Pity you’ll never see it though,” Julan said smiling.

"Should we let him live?"

        “I know!  Just think, it could have bought you some decent armor,” I sighed.   “You know highwaymen should look dashing,”

      "Or at least clean,” Julan snarked. “Not a penny, my friend.”

           “No even one,” I said smiling at Fjol.

        “Seems a small price to pay for your life,” Fjol said posturing.  “No matter, though.  I’ll have that gold one way or another.”

       “Oh what a lark!  What do think Anni, should we let him live?”  Julan said while conjuring up something or another.

         “What?” Fjol actually looked terrified.

    “Mmmm,” I said licking my lips, “I don’t know…I think he’s been a very naughty boy,” I said, hand on my hilt.   

    “Ahhh!” Fjol shouted, or something to that effect and ran off in the distance.

     “Poor sport, Anni.”

    “Yes, terrible,” I laughed watching the Fjol trip over some mandrake roots and tumble down a hill out of sight.  I looked over at Julan wiping the sweat from his brow.  “Jules, let’s cross over to Hla Oad take a boat to Vivec.  I grow tired of the swamp.”

    “Lost a bit of its charm, I’d say.  Well, let’s go or shall I carry you?”

    “I think you should carry me,” I said laughing and Julan swung me over his shoulder.  “Not like that, you bloody s’wit!” I shrieked smacking his back has he walked along whistling some merry tune.  Though when the boat finally reached Vivec, his demeanor had changed entirely.

    “I guess you’ll have to go see that Crassius fellow, eh?”

    “There’s no putting it off now. It’s the last Great House.”

    “Nothing great about it.  It’s a house of slime and filth.”

    “Oh tell me what you really think,” I said laughing, but his jaw was already set, clenched; his mood had taken a down turn and there was nothing to be done but ride it out.  “Crassius has a manor in the Hlaalu Canton.  We’ll head directly there.”  It took time, but we found the manor though I had noticed the Ordinators and other residents were terse at best.  I received a worse reception here than I had encountered in Ald-ruhn—which was strange.  Certainly the Ordinators were expected to be rude due the Cult’s position on the Nerevarine, but I wondered why the residents were as well, as House Hlaalu was not known for its devotion to the gods—they worshipped the Septim.  Well, at least we weren’t arrested, though next time I’d make sure we were carefully disguised.  Upon entering the Curio Manor we were led down a set of stairs to Sera Crassius and found he was quite friendly, perhaps too friendly…

    “Ah greetings, sera.  I am Crassius Curio, but you can call me Uncle Crassius.”

    “What? Ok, Crassius…er, I mean Uncle,” I said stuttering.

    “Ah yes, it sounds like music when you say it,” Crassius said flashing a flamboyant smile.

    “Uh, I’m Annika Blue….here about the Hlaalu Hortator…”

    “Of course you are pumpkin; I’ve heard how you managed your way to that position, though it’s a pity.”

    “Why?”  He’s thrown me off kilter—totally.

    “Well, Orvas Dren does not want you to be Hortator.  And very few councilors would be willing to risk Ser Dren’s disapproval.  And you are not of House Hlaalu…”

Pumpkin?

    “I am not of any house, sera.”

    “Well, yes that’s true, but some might wonder why Hlaalu should name you their Hortator.  Would you have Hlaalu interests at heart?”

      “I have Vvardenfell’s interest at heart.”

    “Of course you do princess, but I wonder…” he said rubbing his chin, “perhaps if you were to do something for House Hlaalu, something kind and sweet…”

    “Yes, go on,” I said looking at my feet, blushing fiercely.  Oh, please don’t ask me for that kind of favor…

    “Oh, you are too precious when you are nervous, sweetie.  No, no, nothing like that—at least not yet—business before pleasure, my over-eager muffin.  Perhaps we could talk about the ebony trade.”

    “I know little of that.”

    “You know enough, and I have a suspicion your friend over there…”

    “Jules, I mean Julan Kaushibael…”

    “Yes, whatever…Julan knows a thing or two about it.  Anyway, the Zainab have been trying to sell ebony, to anyone who asks.  That makes no one any money.  Go speak with the Ashkhan and make sure they only sell it through us, pudding.  Use your irresistible charm that so swayed me.  Then we can discuss the Hortator.”

    “Certainly, Crassius....uh...I mean Uncle Crassius, we’ll be on our way.  Thank you.” I thought Uncle Crassius was a sleaze—he reminded me of tricks past, but at least I knew I could do business with him.  He had price.  I just had to figure out what it was and be sure not to lose myself in the bargain.

    “I need to shower, Anni.  I have to get the slime off.  Oh, and I did not like the way he spoke to you…or looked at you for that matter.”

    “Well right now we need him,” I sighed.  “But Julan, what do you know of the Ebony trade?”

    “Very little except that my people find new and interesting ways of getting ripped off, though I certainly wasn’t going let him know that.”

    I smiled at him. “Well that was wise.  Let’s get some sleep and head over to the Zainab.

    “Are we still walking?”

    “Yeah.  But first let’s get some disguises.”

    “What’s the point?  I doubt anyone in the tribes has you picture hanging up in their yurt.”

    “I want to wear my new wig.”

    “Eh.  Fine.”

Day 214

Molag Amur, pretty name, ugly place.  Some how the wastes of this region are more menacing then the ones I had encountered to the north. I guess one could say that it was just like any other waste, but it wasn’t; it’s crags and rocky ridges did not speak the poetry and haunted beauty of its northern sister. Though far removed from the Red Mountain, Molag Amur's volcanoes still seethed and churned fiercely; one had to be careful not to fall into an open pit of roiling magma.  But there was something more the place then mere danger...there was a certain kind of malevolence to it, in a way I could not describe.  Molag Amur was a sparsely populated place where damp and cold did not disappear and the sun seemed too afraid to shine.  Staring into the dreary expanse,  I saw the fire from a camp rising above the mists.  “Is that the Zainab over there?" I asked Julan.  "It seems too close, like we haven’t been traveling long enough.”

Molag Amur

          “Really?” Julan laughed, “It seems all we do is travel, sera.  But you’re right, Anni, that’s the Ebranesium camp. The Zainab are smack dab in the middle of the Grazelands.”

        “Wonder if we should stop there first and see if they’ll name me Nerevarine.”

         “I can’t see how it would hurt, I mean its not like word gets around to too many of the camps, I’m not sure they would know that you’d been named Hortator in the Great Houses.”

         “Well, I guess we could always go see what they say.  Do you know anything of them Julan?”

         “That they’re war-like and self-destructive.  You think the Ahemmusa are racist just wait until we talk to one of their tribesmen,” he said with a snicker. “Seriously, Anni, I’d break with protocol and avoid the Ashkhan…Ulath-Pal I think his name is or something to that effect...”

          “Sounds like a bowl of cherries.  How do you think we should approach this?  Ulath-Pal is a brute, so I should sneak in and speak to wise woman straight off?”

         “I would.”  We walked into the camp and I asked tribeswoman where I could find the Wise Woman’s the yurt.  She pointed it out to me then scurried off.  I noticed immediately that part of the door frame was broken, as if someone had forced their way in—not something that respectful tribesman ever does to a Wise Woman.  I bowed gracefully to the woman in front of me—she was small—not in stature, but she seemed somehow diminished.

            “Excuse me sera, I do not mean to barge in, I am Annika Blue.”

          “I am Manirai, Erabenimsun Wise Woman.  And you, you must be the one I’ve heard tales about.  Are you the Outlander that claims to fulfill the Nerevarine Prophecies?”

            “Yes, sera.”

       “Oh it is good you came to me first, Annika,” She said relived, then started speaking quickly. “Ulath-Pal, our Ashkhan would have killed you on sight.  He and the other gulahkhans hate Outlanders and would never suffer one to rule them.  If you want to be named Nerevarine of the Erabenimsun, you must kill Ulath-Pal and his supporters Ahaz, Ranabi, and Ashu-Ahhe.  Spare the last gulahkhan, Han-Ammu.  He is peace-loving, but shy and….not very leader like.”

          I took a second to take all her words in.  Again I was going act as an assassin to an inconvenient leader.  “I will do what I can Manirai—hopefully without blood on my sword.”

            “Ai,” she muttered looking a bit disappointed.  “I am just a weak woman, and I am sure you know best, sera,” she said haltingly, “but I tell you they will not go down gently and will never agree to you being the Nerevarine.”  Julan and I exited her yurt.

            “Well, that was odd,” I said staring out into the camp.  Not many people about.

            “Look Anni, the gulahkhans are pretty violent and easily provoked so go easy.”

            “I’ll do what I can, Jules.”

            “It’s just there are so few Ashlanders left without you massacring more of them,” he sniffed.

            I spun around and cornered him against the side of a yurt, “Look, I said I’d try not to kill them, but as you well know, from time to time this mission requires getting some blood and shit on your hands, I said I’d do what could be done and that’s all I can promise.  Now, you’re either with me or not—if not just stay out of my way!”

            “Let’s get this over with Anni,” Julan said coldly.  We both walked into the Ashkhan’s Yurt.

"You will not foul my home."

            “No,” is all the tall, aged Dunmer said as he came toward me wearing a scowl. “You will not enter and foul my home.  If you have business we shall meet outside.”

      “Certainly, sera.” We walked behind Ulath-Pal and Ashu-Ashe.  Ulath-Pal then shouted out something in the native Dumner dialect. Julan leaned over and whispered, “I think he’s calling for the other gulahkhans.  Now he’s asking his people to gather.  Anni, I think he means to put on a show.” I nodded quietly.  I was thankful for my translator, for without him, I would not have understood any of this.  I looked to my right and saw what must have been Ahaz and Ranabi emerging from their yurts.

          “Ulath-Pal, I am Annika Blue, and this is my companion Julan Kaushibael of the Ahemmusa.  We have come in peace.  I wish to be named Nerevarine—.”

        "Do not utter that name Outlander—it is an insult!  As long as I live you shall never be named Erabenimsun Nerevarine.”

          “But sera, I have proofs,” I held out the Moon and Star Ring.  Ulath-Pal raised his arm and back handed me so hard I fell to the ground.  Julan moved in.  “No, Jules…I stood shaking off the dirt, spitting blood.  Standing erect with my hands at my sides, I spoke.  “I have come to stand with you against Dagoth Ur.  To save your people from the blight and ash—.”

       "Stop!  I am not interested in your lies. This problem has an easy solution,”  Ulath-Pal said menacingly.    

            “So you’re not interested in my proofs?” I said moving my hand towards my hilt.  I let him have one blow, I would not grant him another.

         “No.”  He swung at me clumsily, his gulahkhans attacking Julan and I as well.  It was a blood bath—their blood not ours.  These men were bullies, though were easily felled by more experience and sharper weapons.  I was heartened that Julan had shown no hesitation in sending the Ashkhan to meet his ancestors, despite his earlier reservations.  I think their brutality eased his conscience. After the fighting was over, Julan and I stood cringing over the carcasses waiting for more tribesmen to come at us.  The men and women watched us silently then began to move off.  I wondered why the entire village had not come for me.  Julan moved closer to me then said, “Well, I was hoping we wouldn’t have to kill anyone, but I guess this camp will be a better place without these butchers anyway,” he said looking off into the distance.  “I’m sorry for what I said earlier, Anne.  I know what you’ve done for my people already…It’s just…well.”

            “I know, and believe me,’ I said moving closer to Julan, “please believe me that I took no joy in killing these men.”

            “Ai..”

            “But have noticed that no else has come forward?”

            “Maybe they were tired of his brutality too.  Perhaps we did do them a great favor.  We should go back to Manirai and see what she says.”

            “Yeah, but should we just leave the bodies?”

            “Ashlanders have their own burial rituals, Anni.  It would be an insult for us to touch them—they stay where they lay.”

            “Okay.”  We walked back to Manirai’s yurt.  I saw the old woman bent in tears.    “Manirai, I am truly sorry it had to come to this…” I then noticed she was smiling.  These were not tears of loss.

            “Annika Blue.  You have rid this tribe of their curse.  Their ways were…severe.  Now we can talk about what comes next.”  Always.  Something always came next. She went on, “Now with Ulath-Pal and his supporters gone, it’s a simple matter for you to be named Nerevarine of the Erabenimsun.”

            “Really?” Never was it a simple matter….

You're the next in line

        “Yes, Annika, you have no idea how my people have suffered.  Han-Ammu has the greatest claim to become the Ashkhan of our tribe, though be prepared; Han-Ammu is not the material one would choose when looking to make an Ashkhan.”

            “What do you mean?  Tell me about him, Manirai,” I said sitting down next to her.

            “Well, Han-Ammu is the son of our former chief, Airan-Ammu, but he is nothing like his father.  He lacks the virtues required by an Ashkhan—strength, courage and wisdom.”

            “Should he be Ashkhan, Manirai?” Julan asked.

            “There is no one else with such a claim to the tribe.  He is the only choice.”

            “Well, what can we do to help?” I asked, unsure of how I could go about changing the very nature of a man.

            “You must persuade him to take his birth-right, to become Ashkhan.  After he agrees, perhaps I can help him in leading the tribe.”

            “Well, we will see what we can do,” I said turning to Julan.

        “You must find some way to give him strength, willpower and intelligence.  Han-Ammu is very unpopular with the tribe and he knows it,” Manirai said firmly.  Great.  I would have to convince a man who was not born to lead a tribe that despises him to become the next Ashkhan.

            “You’re asking for a miracle, Manirai,” I said plainly.

       “Perhaps if he bore the tokens recognized by all the tribe as conferring strength, willpower and intelligence, it would give him the confidence to accept the responsibilities of tribe leadership.”

            “So let me get this straight, your plan is dress him up like an Ashkhan and persuade him to fake it until he’s convinced of his own strength.  Sounds terribly familiar,” Julan said.  It did.  Mashti contrived nearly same thing with Julan as Manirai proposes with Han-Ammu, with disastrous results.

               “He will gain strength as he grows into this role.”

            “I hope for the sake of the Erabenimsun, you are correct.  Again, I’ll do what I can.  Come on, Jules, let’s go gather those items.  Manirai, you’re people won’t be offended if we take things off the dead?”

            “No, I will stand out there with you.”  The three of us walked outside and gathered the items, no one said a word.  Manirai then pointed out his yurt.  We walked in to see two men standing by the fire.  Both were young and one was quite handsome.  He smiled at us when we came in, so it was he I decided to address.

            “Sera Han-Ammu,” I said to strong looking Dumner in a Kagouti skin coat.  

            “No, Outlander, he over there is who you wish to speak.” I turned and saw a slight, scared man off in the corner.  I introduced myself and Julan to this small man, cowering off to the side.  

            “No matter what Manirai says, I’m not interested,” Han-Ammu said this with force, but I could see he was trembling.  “I don’t want to be Ashkhan.  Everyone despises me.  I am a weakling, coward and fool.  I hate it, but it’s true.  I just want to be left alone.”

            “Tough.  You’re the next in line.  These are the tokens of leadership Manirai told me to give you,” I said handing him the Robe of Erur-Dan the Wise, the amulet Saint-Kils Heart of Fire, and the War Axe of Airan-Ammu.  “Han-Ammu, these things were stolen from you as a child, along with your inheritance.  Ulath-Pal is gone; your tribe needs wise leadership in order to fight what is coming.”

            “Dagoth Ur?”

            “Beyond that.  I will defeat Dagoth Ur, but you must lead your tribe into the next age.”

            “I don’t think I can,” Han-Ammu said softly.

           “I feel the same as you,” Julan said walking up to Han-Ammu. “I have just been handed the title of Ashkhan of the Ahemmusa.  My father was lost to me as well.” Julan then recounted his entire tale, of finding a lost father and his sudden new role as the Ahemmusa Ashkhan.  “I have had no guidance in the role I am to play, but play it I must—and will.  Use your Wise Woman as a guide.  I will be there at hand as well.  Perhaps our tribes can forge a new path—working together.”

            “To drive the Outlanders out?” Ammu asked quickly, forgetting I was in the room, though quickly turning to me to see if I caught it.  The s’wit was guileless—a pity, really.

            “No,” Julan said quietly, “No they are here to stay, but we must find a way to live with them. And to ensure we do not getting pushed off our lands any longer.  That is then next war—to be fought by cunning more than might.  Your people need you; all Ashlanders need you to provide a united front.   Can I count on you?”

            “Yes, Julan,” Ammu said, with more confidence then before..  I decided I would leave the yurt for a time and let them speak.  Later that afternoon, just as the sun was starting to set, Julan and Ammu emerged from the yurt and came toward me.

            “Annika Blue, it is my understanding that you wish to be named Nerevarine.   I’ll give you my support. Go see Manirai; she’ll probably have some sort of token to give you.  Good luck with Devil.”

            “Thank you, Han-Ammu.  I’m certain that in time you will be called a great Ashkhan.”  Julan nodded at Han and we left.  “You saved the day,” I said to Julan as we made our way towards Manirai’s yurt.

            “I think I helped—at least accomplish your ends—as for Han-Ammu, I can only guess.”

            “Julan, I think you will lead your people to greatness.”

            “Our people, Annika.  Remember, you are to be my wife.  You tell me that I must start thinking like an Ashkhan.  Now you have to start thinking like my wife.”

            “How does an Ashkhan’s wife think?”

            “I’m not entirely sure,” laughed Julan.  “But what I do know is that I will need you as my partner—my people are now you’re people Anni.”  I smiled at this, though was not sure it was entirely true, but…I had never had a people before.  

            We entered the Wise Woman’s yurt, she did not seem so little anymore.  The look of fear in her eyes was gone.    “It’s done, Manirai,” I said.

            “So you’re now the Nerevarine and Champion of the Erabenimsun, eh?  And Han-Ammu is now the Ashkhan…Oh all these changes…”

            “I think they are good changes, Manirai,” Julan said.

            “Yes, Ashkhan they are.  It is much to take in though.”

            “Do you think you’ll be able to manage Han-Ammu?” I asked.

            “Oh, who knows?  We can only wait and see if he grows in wisdom, and becomes a good and wise chief like his father.”

            “He’ll have you to guide him.” I said hopefully.

            “Ai…we are both traveling in the dark, but…I think I can guide him, hopefully the Erabenimsun will grow prosperous again.  But I’ve kept you, here…take this.  It’s the Seizing of the Erabenimsun,” she handed me an embroidered belt.  “Now all may know that we have named you Nerevarine and Champion.  I wish you well on your journey, and thank you—both…for everything that was done this day.”

            “Good bye, Manirai,” I said.

            “We will meet again,” Julan said. We walked out into the sunset, Julan was laughing.  “I hope his Wise Woman lives for a good long time.”

            “Well, we’re certainly becoming experts in sorting out misguided young Dumner, aren’t we?  They ought to give us some sort of medal!”

            “Agreed!” Julan stopped for a moment and turned to me.  “Gods, he will be responsible for the safety and prosperity of every single person in the tribe!  That’s really …terrifying.”

            “Oh he’s going to be fine, Kingmaker.  So will you for that matter.”

Day 219

“Mephala, Anni!  This is a glass mine!  But…listen!  No one’s here!”  Dear gods we had exited the gloom of the wastes and entered the golden Grazelands.  And now we were doubly blessed, for at our feet was a mine—a glass mine.  A glittering, green, golden glass mine.

Green Gold

            “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything so beautiful,” I smiled wryly.  I had of course, but right now the beauty of easy money was…well, very powerful.

            “Do you know what that means?  It’s ours!!  Do you know how valuable this stuff is?”  We grabbed each other’s arms and started jumping up and down like children at a fair.  We had stumbled upon the glass mine as we were making our way out the wastes.  I knew the Grazelands were good luck…but this was beyond anything I had ever dreamed.

            “Jules this is the easiest job we’ve ever done!  Grab a pick and let’s haul as much as we can carry!” I stopped for a moment, “I wonder why it was abandoned?”

            “Oh Anni, finally something that comes easy for us, don’t question it,” he said swinging me around.  “My people have a saying, you know.” I nodded.  “Never look a gift-guar in the mouth.”

            “Very wise,” I laughed.  Well, we were overdue you know.”  We spent hours in the mine hacking at glass until our arms hurt and stomachs rumbled.  Julan had placed a powerful locking spell on the cavern door, as though the mine had the look of being long abandoned, one could never be too careful.  There was a heavy penalty to be paid for stealing the Empire’s ore.  It was well into the evening when we hauled our bounty out from the depth.  Exhausted, we ate crab meat and drank several drams of Matze and made love by our stacks of raw glass that gleamed in the moonlight.

            “I can not believe how lucky am to have found you, Annika Blue.”

            “And you, I am happy.  I hope that never changes.”  I smiled at him then fell into an easy sleep.     

          As dawn broke across the horizon I saw the Zainab Camp.  Julan advised me to see Ababael Tismsar-Dadisun, the trader to unload some of the glass.  He had dealings with Hassour.  I was surprised with the amount of capital he had to offer—9,000 septims—unheard of in any of the camps. Something strange was going on—I wondered if they made a deal with another house, or if they were just flush from their their newly found source of ore. We unloaded almost all of the weapons and glass.  I then asked Ababael about the ebony trade, per my instructions from Crassius.

            “Oh Crassius, that old dog…I’m sure he likes you…and Julan too!  Well, Annika normally I would deal with this matter, but it goes beyond trade.  Politics and the stance of the Zainab tribe are involved.  Speak with Gulakhan Ashibaal on this.  He’ll be in his yurt.”

            “Thank you, Ababael.”

            “It was a pleasure doing business with you.”  We walked out of the yurt; Julan was grumbling, “I think we could have gotten a better deal in Balmora on all that glass.”

            “Yeah, but did you want to carry it there?”

            “Not particularly.”

            “Did you want to be stopped and questioned where we got this?”  He just looked straight ahead, I then said smiling, “Then we got a good deal.”

            “It’s just the Zainab are a cunning lot.”

            “I agree with you, and I hope they’ll see reason in Crassius’s proposal.”

            “Hmmm.  I’m not sure it’s much of a deal.”

            “It could be one, if handled…cunningly. There’s Ashibaal’s yurt.  Let’s see if he’s willing to listen.” I introduced myself and Julan to the gulahkhan Ashibaal and told him directly why I came—regarding the ebony trade.

            “Well, why are you speaking to me about Ebony?” he said with his arms crossed.

            “Because I think the Zaniab are now strong enough to sell it.” Flattery will get you everywhere.

            “Of course we are.  The Zaniab are strongest of the Ashlander tribes, and yes, we do have ebony to sell.  But why, Annika, do you want our ebony when you have ebony of your own?”  I had to think on this and then it came to me in a flash.  Simple economics.

            “Because, Ashibaal, if you and Hlaalu both sell ebony the price drops.”  As I said this I saw Ashibaal’s mind work.  I think he saw the logic in my argument; in fact I’m sure he had probably come to the same conclusion long ago—he was just waiting for a Hlaalu retainer to come seeking a deal.

            “Ah, I see the logic in your words.  When two strong warriors stand side by side, no one dares challenge them.  Tell your Crassius that I will do business with him, if he is willing to offer the Zaniab a reasonable price.”

An indecent proposal--with hips

            “Thank you, Sera. I will tell him.”

            “Oh, and Annika, I think you and Julan should see our Ashkhan, Kaushad.  Julan, he has learned that you are the Ahemmusa’s new Ashkhan and would wish to speak to you.”

            “Certainly, its time I paid him my respects.”  

            “His yurt is next to mine.  Go see him immediately.”  We walked over to the Ashkhan’s yurt, though Kaushad was standing outside to greet us—this was almost unheard of—though now I suppose this was the greeting that one  Ashkhan gave to another, and had little to do with my presence at all.  Kaushad was an older looking Dumner, though pleasant.  He had a wily look in his eyes.  I would not want to negotiate with this man, for even with my skill, I think he could walk off with all my possession and my soul to boot.  

            “Annika Blue,” Kaushad spoke cheerfully after offering us a drink, “we’ve all heard the rumors.  We know you are to be the Outlander who claims to fulfill the Nerevarine Prophesies.  But teach us, Annika…how could an Outlander be the Nerevarine?”  I heard a couple of tribesman titter in the background.

            I paused for a second before speaking as I wanted to give a thoughtful answer.  “I understand your questions, Kaushad.  And, I will agree it is odd that Azura would pick an Outlander, as according to legend, it is the Nerevarine that drives all Outlanders from Vvardenfell. However, I can only answer that it is Azura’s will—though a weak answer it is.  She has chosen me, for what reason, though I have no idea, but—.”

            “Ho, ho!  Excuse me.  Do not think me rude.  But seriously.  Do you believe this story yourself?  I mean no offense, but you must admit, you are an Outlander, and completely ignorant of our ways.  How could you ever be our war leader?  What sensible Ashkhan would ever choose you to lead the tribes,” he said, still laughing.

            Julan turned and faced Kaushad, “The Ashkhan who chooses her is wise, for Kaushad, she has met every challenge set before her and attacked every obstacle with vehemence. She is Hortator of the Telvanni and Redoran, as well as the Nerevarine of the Erabenimsun.” No point in saying how recently that title was won.

            “I see,” Kaushad said, though I could tell he was just being polite.  I had to stop the deadlock.

            “Set me to task, Kaushad,” I said plainly.

Beware of nasty things in crypts: Calvario

            “Very well. A vampire named Calvario has taken refuge in near by Nerano Ancestral Tomb.  If you are as worthy as you say you are, it should be a small matter for you to dispose of this vampire.  There you have your task.  Now perhaps you can leave me while I discuss tribal matters with …”

            “With my betrothed, you mean.” I turned to Julan and said, “Jules why don’t you and Kaushad discuss the future of your tribes while I handle this small matter.” He nodded as I left the tent apprehensively wondering if Kaushad was brokering a marriage as it was commonly done in tribal lands.  I was so tired of being afraid.  I had hoped that walking through the Grazelands with the wind blowing against the wheat would ease my troubled mind; though not even thoughts of Chorrol and Kat could provide any comfort.  I kept coming back to the same question; why was I was still here?  I had been promoted to Blades Operative and was no longer a criminal.  I could just pick up and leave, but I didn’t.  I could easily throw the mission and fail some kind of task, maybe the one I was on now, but I knew I wouldn’t.  Was it pride?  I had to think that whatever was pulling me toward the monster under the Red Mountain was more than the unpredictable love of a man, or some need to prove myself.  No, it went far beyond that.  What was calling me?

            Nerano tomb was far enough away from the Zaniab to give me time to ruminate over horrid answer I had given Kaushad.  It was vague and uncertain.  ‘Oh it’s the will of Azura’ or some other kind of rot.  The sad part was that I saw Kaushad’s logic.  I, too, would have asked those questions and would have expected a better answer.  No wonder he sent me running along on some silly mission.  The tomb was easy enough to find, though it looked abandoned.  Upon entering I was nearly overcome by the acrid smell of dried blood. This was a vampire’s tomb, though what a threat this creature was to the Zainab remained to be seen as I had yet to encounter any forms of life (or unlife). There were undisturbed cobwebs all around.  This vampire had not been active in some time, if he was still here at all.  I did come upon the skeleton of a long dead child, and shuddered.  Then it moved—I saw a shadow out of the corner of my eye move in the darkness.  Quickly, I threw the torch in the direction of the shadow and grabbed the hilt of my sword and moved closer, knowing it was better to attack then be attacked.  The creature lunged at me, not even bothering to cast a spell.  Sinking my sword into its long dead heart was a blessing for this worn beast.  I then sliced Calvario’s head off…I would drop it in Kaushad’s lap.      When I returned to the Zainab, dusk was falling all around and the stars had come up.  Over my shoulder was a bag containing the head of a fallen Vampire.  I refrained from dropping the head in Kaushad’s lap—as sadly he was standing, though I did delight in watching him wince as I took the severed head out of the bag.

            “So he’s dead.  Perhaps I was mistaken.  Perhaps you should be Nerevarine.”

            “I’m glad you think so.”

            “Well, I will be happy to acknowledge you as Zainab Nerevarine, but it is customary for one seeking such an honor from the Ashkhan to offer him a generous gift as a mark of respect.”  Why was I not surprised?   He then continued, “Because you are an Outlander, and do not know our customs, I will do you the great favor of naming the gift I wish to receive—a high-born Telvanni bride—a pretty one, plump, with big hips to bring me many sons.  I have recently been widowed and need to ensure the line does not break.”  He sounded positively disconsolate.

            I could not believe he was asking me to play matchmaker. “I am sorry for your recent loss, but can you tell me, Kaushad, where should I look?  Is there one you have in mind?”

            “Where should you find my bride? Well that is simple.  You should visit high born Telvanni lords and inform them that Ashkhan Kaushad of the Lordly Zainab would do them the honor of making their daughter his bride.  Surely many Telvanni lords would be honored to receive such an offer.  Consider carefully the many daughters offered and choose for the finest.  Take counsel with my wise woman, Sonummu Zabaman.  She knows my mind well in such matters.

            “Well that was…strange,” I said walking out of Kaushad’s yurt.  “Gods where will find a woman who actually wants him?”

            “Why would he want a Telvanni bride?” Julan mused.  “All the Telvanni noblewomen I ever met looked like they came out of the wrong end of a guar.”

            “When did you ever meet a noblewoman?” I asked coyly.

            “Whenever one came to the Varo tradehouse feeling the downside of sexy.”

          “Ha! Let’s go see Sonnumu as I don’t want to picture you with the wrong end of a guar.”  We walked into the wise woman’s yurt. She was an older Dunmer woman, face creased by many lines; there cause most likely a lifetime spent in the sun and with Kaushad. Gods, these women don’t age well, I thought to myself.  Maybe the wrong end of a guar wasn’t the worst possibility for old Kaushad.  

            “Greetings Outlander, have you come to speak of the prophecies or have come for my counsel?

            “Both, Sonummu.  Actually your Ashkhan, Kaushad, has made a strange request.”

            “I’m listening,” she said with a wry smile on her face. “Go on.”

     “Well, in order for Kaushad to name me Zainab Nerevarine, he has asked that I procure him…well…procure him a bride.”

            “A noble Telvanni.”

            “That would be it.”

            “Gods, Anidei has not been in the ground a month.  That poor woman died giving birth to a daughter—that’s all they ever had.  A curse to him—I say.  Well, I have a plan for this new bride.”

            “Let’s hear it.”

            “No high-born Telvanni would wed an Ashlander. But I have a plan.  Go to my friend, Savile Imayn, slave mistress of the Festival Slave Market in Tel Aruhn and tell her you need a pretty Dumner slave to pose as a Telvanni lady.”

            “Wait—.” Julan interrupted.  “You want us to purchase a woman?  How is possible that a Dumner is even a slave?”

            “Whatever made you think it was illegal, child?” Sonummu tittered. “Well, its not and plenty of Dumner serve in that capacity.  Anyway, Annika, as I was saying, you will need to purchase a pretty Dumner girl and then Savile will tell you what clothes to buy, and will dress her like a high-born Telvanni.  Then escort the pretty slave to the Zainab and present her to Kaushad as a high-born Telvanni bride.  He wont’ know the difference.”  At this point Julan stormed out of the yurt.  Sonnumu shrugged.  “The Ahemussa were always a fiery lot, that’s been their undoing.”

Festival Slave Market

            “Yes, but Sonummu, I have to admit the idea doesn’t sit well with me either.”

            “I have no other solution and I don’t think you’ll get his approval any other way.  And I would not suggest violence.  Despite his lack of character in…well…personal matters, he has risen the Zainab to new heights.  Unheard of prosperity.  I wouldn’t challenge him, plus you have to think of your young Ashkhan outside.  He will need us—best do what I advise.”

            “I see your point.”  Now I would have to make Julan see it.  I walked outside and saw Julan angrily smoking a hacklo leaf.  His leg was twitching.   It had reached twitching point.  He turned angrily towards me.

            “You’re not actually considering getting him a Telvanni “bride” now?”  he asked in protest.

            “I’m considering everything.” I said gravely.

            “This is too much Anni; you can’t possibly consider purchasing another woman—to meet his ends.  I don’t want to support the slave trade—I should think with your beloved Kat, you wouldn’t want to either.” Oh now he was playing the Kat card.

            “Ok, next idea.  We disguise you as the Telvanni bride.” I said staring directly at him.  Julan nearly choked on his hacklo.

            “Fine!  We’ll get the damned slave,” he hissed.  “I’m not sure if she’d be better off in the field or writhing under that man.”

            “Well, he might not be long for this earth,” I said levelly.

            “You know as well as I that those kinds of men live forever.  Anyway, I can’t believe you’re being so blasé about the entire affair.”

            “Could you please keep your voice down?” I said looking around…would do us absolutely no good if we blew the plan now.  “Look, I’ll try to find another solution—one that will please Kaushad, grant me Nerevarine and won’t start an intertribal war.  Your input on this would be much appreciated…though I could do without the scorn, and a hacklo would not be remiss.”  

            We trekked through the countryside on the way to Vos stopping only for sleep.  In two days time I was facing Savile Imayn.  Behind her I saw a striking Dumner woman in a cage and a Khajiti behind her.  It was hard work masking my distaste for this woman.  I had Julan run to the armory as I knew it would be asking too much of him to hold his tongue.   I told Savile who I was and why I came to her “Festival Slave Market”. She laughed.

            “You need a slave to pose as a high born Telvanni lady?” Could this woman read minds?             “Sweet Alma, that Sonummu and her cunning plans.  Oh Annika, Sonummu and I go way back.  Some things never change,” she laughed.

            “Hmmph…I guess not…Well…do you have someone available?” I felt the bile rising in my throat asking this.

            “I do have the slave you want, Falura Llervu, a pretty Dumner girl.  But first you must get her some presentable clothes.  Where ever you shop would be ideal, sera…” She said looking me up and down.  “Once you get clothes, we can discuss a price.  I’m going to anticipate your approval and start working with our bride…to prep her for her future role.” This woman was actually excited for this poor slave who would stand perhaps half a chance at surviving Kaushad.

            I went to go find Julan after my conversation with Savile.    I saw him off in the distance.  I watched him study the quality of a long bow and trace the etched pattern in the limbs with his finger.  He was thinking.  Julan knew I would be approaching him with the inevitable, and he also knew he didn’t have a better idea.  “So it’s done,” I said approaching him as calmly as possible.

            “There was no other way.” He said this as declaration rather than a question.  “It still doesn’t sit well with me and I think it will come back to haunt us Anne.”

            “I agree.” I wouldn’t argue about.

            “I’m sure Savile had the perfect girl.”

            “Oddly she did.  Pretty thing.  I couldn’t look her in the eye, though.”

            “So where is she?” he asked, still looking at his bow, refusing to meet my gaze.

            “Still in her cage,” I gulped.  “I’ve been instructed to get her some nice clothes.”

            He glanced at me, eyes expressing scorn. “Humph.  Buy her some nice clothes,” he said lighting up a hacklo.  “I guess all sacrifices are cleansed before—.”

            “Stop it, Julan!” I said cutting him off.  I didn’t want a lecture now.  “You’re making this worse—and you’re just as much apart of this too.”

            “Just how far would you go, Anni?” He asked bitingly.  I turned away; unable answer the question.  I didn’t know.

            I inhaled deeply, the hacklo burning my lungs. “Julan, I can’t answer that, but could you?  What would you do to keep your tribe safe, Jules?  How far would you go?”  He just shook his head.  I turned and started walking back towards Savile.  Behind me, the sound of Julan’s footfall answered the question.

             We ran all the ridiculous errands and found Flaura beautiful, yet modest clothes.  She would be stunning in these.  I also bought the bug musk, per Savile’s request;   secretly hoping Kaushad would pass out from the stench.  The evening stars were shining when I returned to the Festival Slave Market and faced Savile. “So you have the clothes and bug musk?” I started to hand her the packet.   “No, Annika, don’t give them to me.  You’ll give them to her when you’ve bought her.  Now, here’s my price.  For this superb specimen, skillfully coached to play her part in your little scheme, I will accept 1200 septims—and I only offer you this price out of my friendship for Sonummu Zabamat.

            “I’ll give you 1000.”

            She looked at me scornfully, then nodded. “Fine. I’ll take it.  Give her the clothes when you unlock her cage,” I shuddered at those words.  “She’ll give you no trouble.” I walked up to Falura’s cell and released her, not meeting her eyes.  She did not speak until finally I addressed her.

            “Falura?”

Third Wheel

          “Yes, sera, Falura Llervu of Velothis Haven, daughter of Andrano Llervu, lord of Tel Llervu.” She paused for a moment then winked, “See?  Savile has taught me well.  I shall be a high born Telvanni lady and no one will the difference.  Just like a lady,” she laughed.

            “Are you going to be ok?” I whispered.

            “Well, I admit I am a little anxious about marrying an Ashlander, even an Ashlander chief,” Falura said smiling then continued, “but anything is better than being a slave, and I am tough and smart and determined to make the best of my chances.” I paused, nodding.

            “Are we ready to go?” she asked.  Julan stepped up.

            “Yes,” Julan helped her down and I handed her the clothes.

            “Oh, do not worry if we must cross water for I am an excellent swimmer, but you must help me with anything we might encounter on the way, for I am only a house hold slave and knew very few spells—none that will help you if,” she paused, “we encounter something nasty.”

            “You will be safe with us, Falura,” Julan said graciously, perhaps a little too…  

            “Oh sera,” she turned to me looking up from clothes and perfume, “oh these clothes are so divine!  Such a perfume!  Only the very rich can afford this!  Oh, don’t worry Annika; I shall do everything I can to please you and my new master…that is, my gracious lord and betrothed!” I winced as she spoke those words.  My guilt was like a brand.  “Come on,” she said excitedly, “I cannot wait to start my new life!”  Gods, he better be good to her.

            “Don’t worry, Anni, I’ll talk to her,” Julan said smiling, “and let her know that all Ashlanders aren’t monsters.”

            “Just the one she’s marrying,” I muttered and walked ahead of them.  The weather worked against us, what should of taken two days of hard travel had nearly taken four.  It also didn’t help that Julan and Falura were hanging back.  I wasn’t sure if Falura was purposely delaying or openly flirting with Julan.  Actually, I think it was a bit both and frankly I was getting sick of it; decidedly feeling less guilt about her final destination. Both nights spent on Azura’s coast were miserable, I had usually collapsed from exhaustion as I did the majority of the fighting and protecting while the two of them were huddled together.  In the mornings I would wake up to Julan beside me, but I had no idea what had transpired while I was sleeping. In my heart I knew I was being petty, knowing that she would end up with a man that no young woman could possibly love.  Though I hated to admit it, I was relieved when we reached the Grazelands coast, for I knew we were less than a day away and the sky was bright and sunny, though it seemed she moved even slower than before.  

            “Excuse me Falura, but could borrow Julan for a second,” I asked taking Julan’s arms, nearly dragging him away.  “What are you doing?”

Jealous Bitch

            “Oh, I’ve been talking to Falura.  I’m amazed by her, Anni.  The things she’s endured would break anyone, but somehow she’s survived.” He stared back in her direction, mooning like some love struck acolyte. “Anni, she’s determined to get everything she can out of life, whatever happens, even if…even if it means becoming that bastard’s—I mean Kaushad’s wife.”

            “Hmmm.  You don’t sound too pleased about that.  If I didn’t know any better I’d say you were attracted to her.” My claws were out, though in truth I wasn’t sure if it was jealously or guilt that was eating me, perhaps it was an evil collaboration of both.

            “No!  Of course not,” he averted my eyes and turned his head. Now I was shaking.

            “You’re a terrible liar, Jules,” I said, giving him a rueful smile.

            “All right, fine!  Maybe I am attracted to her a little.  Just a little!  I’m not going to do anything, am I?” I just stared coldly in response.  “I’m with you.  Don’t you trust me?”

            “Well maybe if you gave me reason to…Maybe I’d trust you more if you stopped gawping at her all the time!” I screamed.  I didn’t care if she heard at this point.  I was beyond reason.

            “I’m not “gawping” at her!  Gods, how the hell would you know, anyway?  You’ve barely looked back,” he shouted, his tone sharper and louder at each passing word.  “Look, you have no idea what she’s been through, so just stop being a jealous bitch!”  I back handed him so hard I heard a crack, Julan stumbled and Falura gasped.

            “Keep up!” I shouted staring at both of them.  Julan made no motion towards me, though his eyes communicated an anger that I had not seen before.  He turned slowly and stumbled back to Falura.  Shaking, in fury, and perhaps in fear, I stared straight ahead and kept walking.  I did not look back until right before we reached the Zainab.  I paused when I saw Kaushad standing outside with his gulahkhans; I motioned for them to stop then turned back to Falura, I said civilly, “We’re here.”

            “That’s him?” she asked, approaching me warily.

              “Yes.” I said as warmly as possible.  

"May I present Falura Llervu?"

            “Oh, he’s very distinguished looking, isn’t he?  A bit severe, perhaps, but the lines on his face, there, show he likes to smile.  Oh, I think I might be very happy,” she smiled.  She then turned slightly and said, “Annika, I am going to say good bye to Julan.  I want you to know that I am sorry if I caused you any trouble, but…well…Julan is a good man.  I think you should be good to him.”  I turned from her and said nothing, though nodded in acknowledgement.  Walking away, I watched Falura and Julan say good bye; Julan softly kissed her forehead and whispered in her ear.  I turned away bitterly and started towards Kaushad.  He turned and smiled at the three of us coming over the hill.  In my most charming voice, I introduced our high born Telvanni noble.

            “Kaushad, may I present Falura Llervu of Velothis Haven, daughter of Andrano Llervu, lord of Tel Llervu.”

            “Ah, this is to be my new bride?  I am very pleased with your gift Annika Blue, though,” he said in a whisper, “she is not so generous in the hips as I would like.”

    “      Ah.”

            “But no matter.  I promise to make her a happy bride, and to do her honor as a high born Telvanni lady.  And as I have my gift, I will now name you Zainab Nerevarine and Protector of the People.  Annika, I will present you with this token of my people,”  he said handing me a beaded necklace. I bowed to Kaushad, then he turned to his new wife.  “My lady, I am so pleased you are here, come, let me show you around,” he said taking her arm. I turned from them and started walking west, out of the camp, I heard Julan walking behind.  When we reached the outskirts he picked me up and swung me around.

            “Gods, I’ve never been so humiliated!” he seethed.  “Don’t you ever…ever…lay your hands on me again!”  

            I freed myself from his grasp.  “Well…you won’t have to worry about that anymore Julan—or my humiliating nature.  I’m heading to Vivec…without you.”  He paused for a moment, jaw clenched.

            “You better think long and hard Annika, about what you really want,” he said with a strange mixture of sadness and rage in his voice.

Over

            “Funny, I was going to say the same,” I choked.  We glared at each other for what seemed like an eternity.  Several times I stopped, wiping the tears streaming from my eyes and watched as he did the same.  We both knew.  This has been a long time in coming.  From the start Julan and I had shared the Nerevarine; our paths crossed then weaved into one shining cloth, but now it was time for me to go at it alone.  I had to test my own mettle—and stand on my own, for it was I, not Annika and Julan, who was the Nerevarine.

            “Annika, when I turn around, I won’t be turning back—ever.”   I nodded then impulsively I grabbed his hand kissing the inside of his wrist, and took a last look.   Turning west, I headed back towards Vivec—alone.