Dawnbreaker sure makes short work of those bonies!

Wow, just one pass with those two swords nearly killed Durn. You are out of charges on one of the swords! As I expected, he did not survive a second time. No dragon soul eating this time. That was a good touch. His soul belongs to the Ideal Masters.

Aravi is a great pic. Love the spell glow in her hand.

Back to Blackreach. That is an interesting place. Neat at first, but it gets to feeling claustrophobic after a while.

You got that flaming/exploding wolf summon spell!

Kharjo does look very cool. What is that armor from?

Kharjo's has to be my favorite among these, for the look on his face and the awesome armor, lol. Loved the Blackreach one, Aravi under the blue light looks really cool! Great shots, all of them!

This vid was awesome and frustrating at the same time. I was dying to know what loot was laying around those tables by the Elder Scroll, lol. Was very glad to see Serana's mother finally show some maternal affection though, lol. Awesome update !!!

@Elisabeth: I like the place too, but Aravi never wants to stay for very long. Thanks!

@Acadian: You got it!

Aravi – Lol, she’s using an alteration spell to check for enemy mages around her. Then she’ll skewer them! Thanks!

@SubRosa: Very short work with Dawnbreaker, I loved that series of explosions.

Durn wasn’t as tough as I expected. I wondered if he would have his soul sucked or not, considering Aravi doesn’t even have her own soul at this point.

The spell effects make for wonderful screen shots. Aravi never had much desire to spend a lot of time down there. I think with a different character there might be some possibilities there. The screen of the wolves was so difficult to take! It explodes right away, even when you pause time for a screen! The armor Kharjo is in is Carved Nordic armor, with the Targe of the Blooded and Dawnguard gloves/boots. The armor is from Dragonborn DLC. Thanks SubRosa!

@mALX: Kharjo is so cool looking like that! I had Aravi stand just off screen so I can get him to look that way. Lol.

There wasn’t really anything lying around to be had. Just some potions. And really, what compares to an Elderscroll? Thanks mALX!

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Getting Aravi’s soul back, and a hasty exit!

5:20

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Screens!
Surrounded

Bloodied

Green eyes

The end is near

Warmth

I loved the scene with the dragon! What a fabulous ‘summoned’ ally for Aravi!

‘Surrounded’ is a veritable explosion of color and action. I love Aravi’s sneaky blue feeties in ‘Bloodied’ (and her armor). ‘Green eyes’ – I’m guessing that’s Aravi behind those teeth and the doggie smell? ‘End’ is an intriguing blend of natural and magical effects. ‘Warmth’ – aww, ‘kini girl’s got a beautiful smile.

*

I couldn't tell what I was looking at in "Surrounded," but the scene was so intense it didn't matter - and the graphics were outstanding! "End - really awesome screen, I know why you took it so far back so we could see the height of that (flame?) - but how I wish you'd followed it up with a closer shot so we could really experience what Aravi was! Warmth is an Awesome shot of Aravi! Green eyes - is it Aravi? You guessed right on the eye color though, and it made me wonder why I never noticed werewolf eye color before! Are they all green? Do they take on the color eyes of the Player character? Is this a mod?

WOO HOO! Vanquisher Aravi !!! WOO HOO, a summonable dragon to fight by her side! Is it a one time thing or repeatable? Best save that for a big battle just in case! This Soul Cairn is an AWESOME place! Loved this vid !!!!! Awesome update!


*

Maybe I am a fellow working at Bethesda, who doesn't really work at Bethesda but claims he does, who is secretely a developer masquerading as as forum-user who claims he works for Bethesda.

Serana and Aravi pwn the Keepers. The place is so gloomy is makes me cry! Gravestones everywhere . . .the Elder Scroll's underworld! Looks like she got a little tired running all over the place though.

Screenies:

White worldBeautiful horse! And the whiteness . . .so pure-looking!

sitting togetherAww. This is nice! The two in a room alone . . .talking about who knows what. Elsweyr? Masser and Secunda . . .fondue?

Approaching fate: Into the mouth of death they strode, into the grimsy gloom. Into the pit of fear unknown, perhaps to court their doom!

AlduinThe two face off! Dragonborn and World Eater! A fight for the ages!

Video:
So, we meet up with the Undead Dragon, eh? Aravi the Vanquisher. Got a nice ring to it. Quite the battle! Two vampires and one Lycanthropic Khajiit against a zombie dragon? Oh my.

Screens!
Aravi: Oh! Is she getting ready to summon something here?

Blackreach:Shrooms! Blue shrooms!

A second wolf:Spirit wolves ftw. Love the flame atronach and the prints.

Kharjo looking like a Bad#&%Agreed. He looks mighty epic here! Especially with that shield and that beautiful spiked armor.

Last video: Durnehviir’s boneman Shout is so neat! That was a fun fight to watch. Frost, shock, fire, and Dawnbreaker blowing things up everywhere. Plus, dragon! I watched it twice. What a mess on the ground afterward! The Boneyard is so untidy.

I guess that little nook is where Valerica has been hanging out with her stuff for a thousand years. I know one Breton who would have brought some more books. Valerica staying in the Soul Cairn makes perfect sense.

Screenshots: I love Aravi’s pose and expression in the first one. (I looked ahead in your comments to find out that she was using the Detect spell. )

Wow, the Blackreach shot looks amazing! That’s a great place for Alteration spells with less armor. I always think of it as being warm and humid.

How fun, J’Renrij and the flaming familiar! I love all of those tracks in the snow!

Badass indeed! I just love that armor, and he has my favorite shield. Plus his pose is pure awesome.

What a great group of pictures! There’s no way I can pick a favorite from these!!

**
Leaving the Soul Cairn video: I love Aravi’s reaction when she saw Durnehviir there! His attitude was interesting, especially the part about being bound by an oath. It opens some possibilities that the game doesn’t explore. That was a neat moment when Aravi walked sort of under him. That huge dragon wants to fight for her!

Yikes, that was quite a sprint for the exit once she got her soul back. I guess she’s not planning to return for a chat with Valerica.


Surrounded: I know where that is! I can see Dawnbreaker in the background. Aravi’s expression is so fierce! That’s an excellent shot!

Bloodied: She’s a mess!! Two swords must sling a lot of blood around.

The green eyes are awesome! It’s hard to connect Aravi with the Beast, so it’s neat to have her green eyes still in the beast form.

The end is near: Oh I know where that is, too. I’ve only seen it once. Wow. *shiver*

Warmth: So pretty! Love that smile.

HOW DID I MISS THIS THREAD?!

I've kind of been clicking on random pages and various screenshots I've seen on them, and I have to say this:

You are a god. Damn. Artist.

I mean seriously, some of these shots are amazing! You've got one hell of a skill for using timing and the free camera and with that you've created some amazing stuff; the framing, lighting and positioning of some of these are truly phenominal and if I didn't know better I'd think you were using pre-made renders instead of taking screenshots from a video game. It...it's just all so pretty!

Also, that rig of yours must be an absolute monster to get Skyrim looking as good as it does. Very nice, very nice indeed.

Oh look, there is that pesky dragon again. At least he is not pesky this time around. He wants Aravi to summon her! I can easily understand his motivations. If I were stuck in that place, I would want to get out as well, even if only for a few minutes.

So that is how you get your soul back. I do not blame Aravi for running to get out of that place.

I recognize that place in Surrounded. That is the only place I am aware of where those type of skeleton can be found. Aravi looks ferocious!

Aravi looks like she has not been watching her table manners in Bloodied!

Green eyes is creepy. It is neat that you still have your eye color in wolf form.

The end is near makes me think "There can be only one!"

And finally Aravi is back to her cheerful self in Warmth!

@Acadian: That scene with the dragon was really cool. She has a very fearsome ally now!

Bloodied- Always mention the blue feet! I love that armor.

Green eyes- Yes that’s Aravi.

Warmth- I thought you’d like that one. Thanks Acadian!

@mALX: End- Now I wish I had taken another shot. I could load up a save game…

Glad you liked warmth.

You guessed right on the eye color
I’m glad I did! Actually I cheated; it was labeled as green so I assumed it was right. They weren’t green before, I modded it to be green. I do believe every werewolf in the game is going to have green eyes now. You see them so infrequently that it doesn’t bother me.

She can summon the dragon any time, as many times as she wants! Thanks mALX!

@DE: Maybe I am a fellow working at Bethesda, who doesn't really work at Bethesda but claims he does, who is secretely a developer masquerading as as forum-user who claims he works for Bethesda.
I knew it!

Yeah… Soul Cairn isn’t a cheery place. Aravi hasn’t been back since, and I don’t see her going in again.

White world- I thought it was a neat shot. I agree, pure looking.

Fate- You’re a poet too!

Two vampires and one Lycanthropic Khajiit against a zombie dragon?
Well, when you put it like that…

Aravi- She’s using detect life in that screen.

Kharjo- I usually like the ‘clean’ armors, but damn that looks too good. Thanks DE!

@Grits: That fight was a lot of fun, despite Aravi kicking Durnehviir’s scaly butt so quickly.

Aravi was glad Valerica intends to stay in the Cairn. She would have probably felt obligated to kill her otherwise. That would be awkward with Serana…

Blackreach- I imagined it being warm too. And it’s a good excuse to wear less armor. Glad you like that shot!

Kharjo- I knew you’d like that one even before you saw it the first time!

Durnehviir was not expected, and she was sure he wouldn’t be pleased about being killed. After talking, she felt like she could trust him.

She got her soul, and she’s out of there!

Surrounded- I loved that action shot. She’s in the middle of a swirling attack on all of them!

Eyes- I thought it was difficult to connect her too, so the eyes help.

End- Thanks Grits!

Mustard: Didn’t expect you here! Sure, I’ll take the title of artist!

I take a ton of screens and throw away a lot of them. Timing can be tricky, but I can pause the game and move the camera. I do have a pretty nice computer, if you’d like to know what hardware I have, I can post it.

Thanks Mustard!

@SubRosa: Durn turned out being pretty cool, didn’t he? I’m sure he’d take almost any opportunity to get out of there he can.

Surrounded- I’m sure you’re right about those skeletons. I haven’t seen anything quite like them elsewhere.

Bloodied- That’s kind of how I imagine her looking after a werewolf run.

Eyes- I modded the eyes to be green. You got a brownish color normally.

Warmth- Definitely a happy Khajiit. Thanks SubRosa!

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This next episode is a quick chapter of about Aravi after she leaves the Soul Cairn and makes her way back to a small town called Dragon Bridge, where Kharjo waits. I hope you enjoy.

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Aravi shivered as she descended the mountain road, alone but for her thoughts. It was a cloudless night, and normally Aravi’s eyes would be drawn skyward. Tonight, the stars were just cold points of light. Numbness crept into her extremities as she walked. She was getting dangerously cold she knew. Her thick fur armor and foot wrappings, both enchanted against the cold, hadn’t let her down before.

Something was different about her since she left the Soul Cairn, she could feel it. She was weaker and slower in her limbs. Her magicka seemed to be more difficult to reach, and uneager to return when she used it. When she ran, she found herself gasping for air long before she should have been. Skyrim’s cold bit more deeply than it had before.

Serana could have done anything to me when she held my soul, Aravi thought. The knowledge didn’t disturb her as much as it should have. What happened to me? Did I leave some part of me behind? Having her soul torn from her body was terribly painful, but what was worse was the hollow feeling it left her with. Then when she got her soul back, she was totally unstable. She felt damaged.

Aravi had no idea how long she was in the Soul Cairn. She was sure it had been more than one day, but how many? It was early morning when she and Serana emerged from the portal. Despite her hunger and exhaustion, Aravi left the castle immediately. Serana wanted to stay to go through her mother’s things and Aravi didn’t argue. She was going to go insane if she didn’t get away from there. Malice and death permeated the entire castle. She needed to get to Dragon Bridge, where Kharjo waited.

Kharjo. She missed him so much it ached in her chest. She had to fight an overwhelming urge to cry. Bracing her arms against her thighs, she bent down to breathe. What is wrong with me? I’m not like this.

She drained what little magicka she had and cupped a little ball of flame in her hands. She held this as close to her body as she dared. She started walking again, the small sputtering flame encouraging her to pick up her pace. Before too long, it abandoned her, leaving her in darkness. She stopped I will freeze to death out here.

I should just lie down and go to sleep. It would be so easy, she thought bleakly. A breeze floated past her, bringing the faint smell of smoke. Hope rekindled, she followed the road just a little farther and found Dragon Bridge. She made it!

At the inn, her night vision made it easy to find his room. She entered as quietly as she could, but her movements were awkward with her numb limbs and constant shivering. She was closing the door when she heard him for the first time in what seemed like months.

“Aravi? Is that you?”

She turned and looked at the bed to see him sitting up, placing his padded feet on the wood floor and rubbing his eyes. He was naked, save a loincloth about his waist.

“Kharjo!” She ran and hugged him fiercely, knocking him flat on the bed. She felt his powerful arms wrap around her as he returned the hug. “I missed you so much.”

“This one missed you too. He was getting worried.” He was silent for a moment. “You are shaking.”

“I’m so cold.” They sat up and Kharjo wrapped his blanket around both of them. Aravi pressed close to his side feeling the heat of his body. They sat together, snuggled under the blanket in silence until Aravi stopped shivering.

“You have a habit of waking this one up at night,” Kharjo said finally, referring to the night in Rorikstead after one of her werewolf transformations. That night was on Aravi’s mind as well.

“…Kharjo?”

“Mm?”

“I… I want…” she couldn’t spit out the words. Instead she just leaned in and kissed him. It was a moment before he returned the kiss.

He responded to her lips readily after his initial surprise, which comforted Aravi some. Still nervous however, she broke off the kissing. She wanted to start before thoughts and memories overwhelmed her.

As a slave in Morrowind years ago, she was one of the master’s playthings. She was forced to lay with him or any of his guests that desired a Khajiit. Sex had a lot of pain and bad memories attached. She hoped that she could change that tonight with a man that she loved and loved her back.

She left the bed and turned away out of habit. It’s not like he’s never seen you naked before, she scolded herself as she undressed. They have both stood watch as the other bathed; they have both been injured in inaccessible places. She removed her underwear and turned to face Kharjo, still seated on the bed.

His eyes wandered over her body without shame, taking her in. Much like master did… Stop it. She felt her cheeks heat up as he beheld her form. His eyes snapped to hers and he smiled. She felt a rush go through her body. She felt a little dizzy and smiled back. Not like master, she thought with tremendous relief.

He offered his hand. She took it and allowed herself be laid upon the bed. Then he was straddling her, and Aravi wondered if this was going to be it.

He leaned over her, careful to keep his full weight off of her, and kissed her again. Then he did something she did not expect at all. He started to lick the outer edges of her delicate ears. The feeling of his rough tongue on her ears was both comforting and exciting. She didn’t realize how tense she was. She breathed deep and felt her muscles uncoil. Kharjo stopped a moment to whisper, his silken voice near her ear. “That’s better Aravi. Just relax.”

Then he moved down her neck and shoulder to her breasts. Her heart raced as she let him explore, she wondered if he could feel it beating within her. She soon forgot her nerves and was able to simply enjoy the sensations. When she felt she was ready, they switched roles, and it was her turn to explore. She surprised him with some of what she did, and she was happy that he enjoyed it. It wasn’t long before they were both ready and they switched places again.

“Kharjo?”

He paused. “Hm?”

“I love you.”

He smiled at her. “This one loves you too.”

That last little bit made me go "Awwww!!' in a trembly voice ^.^

*

This was spectacular, from Aravi's obvious changes within since her soul was toyed with to her nervousness and struggles with her past as she finally accepts her feelings for Kharjo go deeper than she'd allowed herself till now. Totally Awesome Write! Tremendous!

Seconded. Dawwwww!

I really wish Bethesda would let you marry Kharjo, though; I'd marry the crap out of that guy in a second!

What a neat peek into Aravi’s thinking after her time in the Soul Cairn. I wonder if what is weakening her is just transitory?

Aww, so glad to see that Aravi’s feelings for Kharjo are helping her to move beyond her memories of slavery. It was a nice touch to compare how her master used to look at her with how the smiling Kharjo does. The big cat’s a keeper!

Let me third the Awww as Aravi finds the fortitude to overcome the horrors of her past, in order to be with the cat she loves.

I just love it when you write about Aravi. It adds more to her character!

I have to confess that I love the effect the Soul Cairn had on Aravi. You and I think alike! Daedric Realms or other realms in general do rub off on those who venture in there for long periods of time. It can even change the person psychologically. I just hope Aravi doesn't go all deathly.

"When thou enterest into Oblivion, Oblivion entereth into thee."-Nai Tyrol-Llar.

Valerica was right. Part of the Cairn rubbed off on her. A gloomy walk to the bridge, eh? I feel sorry for her. She's not a fan of all that death and malice and it will probably stick with her for sometime.

It is good to see Kharjo once more.



*record scratch*

At last! Finally! Kharjo is not friend-zoned! Woot!



Don't you just loathe those slave masters who seek to use their slaves as sex toys? Kraven would know

I knew of Aravi's slave past and that it was abusive, but I never imagined it was akin to rape. Makes me symphathize with her problems even more. Such a thing is a horrific experience. Good to see she's grown to be a fighting woman and an adventurer.

What a romantic ending . . .did you mod this in, I must wonder

Good job.

Edit: Awwwww

Argh, what’s wrong with Aravi? It sounds like she’s still missing a piece of soul! What a terribly cold and lonesome walk back to Dragon Bridge.

Oh, I love the tender scene with Kharjo! And the ending… Aaaawwww! It had to be said!

I love the parts you write for Aravi! This was lovely, KC!

@Elisabeth: Thank you very much, and your PM was very sweet.

@mALX: I always imagined that the Soul Cairn would be a traumatic experience, especially for a mortal that had their soul messed with so that they could get inside. This experience finally was the push she needed to go farther with Kharjo. Thanks mALX!

@Mustard: There should be at least one of each race and gender. Oh well, not like they aren’t together nearly all the time anyways. Thanks Colonel!

@Acadian: Yes, this is a temporary condition for Aravi. It’s like recovering from an injury; she’ll be weak for a little while. Kharjo’s been patient with her which is exactly what she needed. Thanks Acadian!

@SubRosa: She just needed some time and a push to get her to take the risk. Thanks SubRosa!

@DE: There’s only so much I can do with the videos! Aravi is healing still, she had her soul removed and put back, and some things aren’t quite right yet. Time and certain emotions help heal the soul so she’s well on the way to recovery.

Even he thought he was friend-zoned!

Aravi’s… service started pretty young and was not willing.

And no mods. Thanks DE!

@Grits: She could have died on that walk, it got a little scary there. I’m very happy everyone seemed to like their scene together. Thanks Grits!

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A few screens first.

Winter road

Feast

Victorious

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Aravi rests well into the next day. When she wakes, Kharjo has some things he wants to discuss with her.

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Kharjo leaned against the railing of the inn’s small porch. The sun shone brightly in between puffy, cheerful clouds in the air. The sky was pale azure. It never gets much color this far north, Kharjo thought. Even this late in the afternoon. A cool breeze floated down the mountains bearing the scent of pine and a hint of salt, a reminder that the sea lay beyond. Khajiit misses his home, but this place has much beauty as well.

His thoughts wandered back to the night before. He could hardly believe that they had taken the next step. He didn’t think that Aravi had those feelings for him. She had never shown that she had cared for Khajiit in that way before. She said she loved this one. He knew with certainty that Aravi wouldn’t have said it if she didn’t mean it. He meant what he had said as well.

As much as he would have liked to just ruminate about the nice things that happened the night before, the questions wouldn’t stay at rest within his mind and his mood soured slightly. What suddenly drove her to this? What happened to her while she was gone? It had been over a week, far longer than she said she would be. Then she appears in the middle of the night, shaking so violently that this one thought she had been poisoned. He had been afraid. When they sat together under the blanket, he could feel her body readily absorbing his heat. He intended to ask her what happened… but other things took this one’s attention.

He heard the inn’s door open behind him and he looked back. Speaking of which, “Good afternoon Khajiit. This one was wondering when you would wake.”

Aravi stood in the doorway squinting in the sunlight. She gave him a small smile and joined him. Kharjo put his arm around her shoulder and held her close. She leaned into him. Magnus moved noticeably lower in the sky before either one of them said anything further.

“How long?” she asked.

Kharjo knew she wasn’t asking how long she had slept. “Eight days. Would you like to go for a walk?”

She knew what he was getting at. “I… would prefer to rest.” Her ears twitched uncomfortably.

She didn’t want to tell him what happened. All the more reason for this one to hear it. “You aren’t going to make this one walk by himself are you?”

That made her smile a little. “What does a strong warrior like you need a little Khajiit to go with you for?”

“This one might get lost.”

“What makes you think I know this area any better than you?”

“Getting lost with you is better than getting lost without you. Come, walk with this one,” he insisted. He stepped off the porch and into the street. He turned back to her with his hand offered. “Come, just a short walk,” he promised.

~~~

They left the town behind as they walked together, crossing the arched bridge the town is named for. The structure was ancient and blackened, as if it had been scorched. A carved stone dragon skull hung overhead.

Aravi found the bridge unnerving. A shiver went down her spine and through her tail as she walked beneath the glowering skull. Knowing that there was a duplicate on the other side of the bridge, watching her back as she passed, didn’t help shake the apprehensive feeling. She felt relief when her feet touched the road’s paving stones on the other side.

They looked to the east as they walked together; Solitude dominated the view. Built high in the sky on a massive stone arch overlooking the Sea of Ghosts, it was a breath taking sight. The sun sat low in the western sky now, casting the city in a rosy light. A breeze blew into their faces, tickling Aravi’s whiskers. She put her worries out of her mind and enjoyed the sights, smells, and being with Kharjo.

“Last night…” Kharjo began slowly. “This one was not prepared, nor was he careful when the moment struck.” Aravi knew what he was getting at. This wasn’t the talk she expected.

“And you are wondering if I may become pregnant?”

“How soon will you know?” Excitement made him speak quickly. “Khajiit has not thought of it before, but the idea of being a father is not unappealing.” He grinned. “Perhaps we can try again tonight? Hmm?”

Aravi smiled despite the bitter news she was about to deliver. “I can answer your question right now. I am infertile; I can never be a mother.”

“What? Are you sure? How?”

“When I was a slave, the master decided he didn’t want any of his whores getting pregnant.”

“This one is sorry.”

“Don’t be, it isn’t your fault. It doesn’t bother me.” The last statement used to be true. When she was a slave, motherhood was the last thing on her mind. After she gained her freedom, she didn’t want to sleep with anyone with the way she had been abused. Then she met Kharjo... Now it actually meant something to her.

She didn’t want to dwell on that subject. “I’m sure you want to know what happened while I was gone for… eight days?”

Kharjo nodded.

“You aren’t going to like this at all.”

“Khajiit figured as much. He will try to keep his interruptions to himself.”

Aravi nodded and told him what happened. About the Soul Cairn and what she had to do to get inside. By the end of it, Kharjo looked like a giant had stepped on his tail.

“You went to a realm of Oblivion? After giving your soul to a vampire? Are you out of your mind??” His hands were gripped into tight fists. “This one trusted you when you asked him to stay behind. He trusted you to not do anything so stupid! ” Kharjo’s eyes blazed and his ears were flat.

Aravi’s temper spiked, but she calmed herself. A benefit of studying illusion magic. She didn’t dare try a spell on him. It would probably work, but it would destroy the trust they shared. Instead, she waited until he calmed down on his own.

“This one knows he cannot keep you safe like others do for their mates. That is not in you. But I cannot understand why you took that risk. You handed everything that you are to that vampire. Khajiit cannot stop thinking about how easily that could have gone differently, and lost you forever.”

“…I had to. I suppose I could have walked away but…”

“That would not have solved anything,” Kharjo finished for her. “This one still does not get it.”

Aravi shrugged. Neither do I really. She took his hands and wormed her fingers into his fists, unclenching them. His hands were sticky, with blood she realized. His claws must have dug into the flesh of his palms. She sent a trickle of healing magic into his hands. “Are you ok?”

Kharjo let out a breath. “Yes, this one is fine. He is just stressed.”

“I’ll try not to do that to you again. I can’t promise that though.”

“That will have to be enough for Khajiit.”

“Thank you for understanding. Let’s go back to the inn. Maybe we can do something about that stress,” Aravi teased.

Aw! AWW!

I can imagine Kharjo being upset about her keeping that from him, especially given the relationship they had, even if it wasn't romantic at first.

but I'm sure Aravi can work out the kinks. -big wink-

Winter Road is frigid but pretty. Aravi’s outfit and pose are great!
Feast is gonna cause a tummy ache.
Victorious! As Aravi steps out of the fire. Kewl!


“Getting lost with you is better than getting lost without you. Come, walk with this one,” he insisted.’
I love the wisdom in Kharjo’s logic here!

‘By the end of it, Kharjo looked like a giant had stepped on his tail.’
What a delightfully appropriate and easy to envision image!

Some more unpleasant glimpses into Aravi’s past. Nice to see A & K talking a bit more openly about the challenges between them.

And off for some more kitty licks!

Loved these pictures. Victorious had some excellent lighting and Feast was brilliantly posed, but Winter road was my favourite; the pose and outfit were wonderful and the scenery were great for giving a cool, restful feel to the piece. Looked like Aravi had simply taken a moment to let the world go by.

The story part was sweet, and the dialogue between the two was excellently written; it's nice to see Aravi dealing with her unpleasant past.

Wow, Kharjo really was upset, wasn't he? I found that bit a nice touch, and while I never imagined Khajiit doing before now I could see that sometimes being a problem.

Aravi has a satisfied victory smile in Winter Road. Looks like her furs need some washing though!

Feast does not look very appetizing to me!

Great shot of the flames in Victorious!

As ever, I loved how you consistently framed Khajiit's thoughts in the third person, just as they speak in the game.

Kharjo looked like a giant had stepped on his tail
This was a great analogy!

If it is any consolation to Kharjo, Serana is not really a vampire. Her race is NordRaceFemale. That is why she does not have the ugly vampire face, why the sunlight never really bothers her (unlike what she says), and why she never drinks blood. She just thinks she is a vampire. She does have a script that gives her the vampire keyword, so she will show up with Detect Dead, and will take the DG sun spell damage. I think the real Serana was killed by Molag Bal, and she was just some Nord girl who looked like her, that her parents brainwashed to think that she was the original Serana.

That went much better than it could have, all things considered. I am afraid Kharjo is not going to be much less stressed if Aravi continues the Dawnguard questline though! At least they are working through it all. So far.

Winter Road: Burr. Looks chilly. And she's got blood . . .on her pants . . .who did she kill . . .?

Feast: Love the eyes! And wow, good scene! Nice food! Is that one of those evil badguys known as the Silver Hand? I sure hope so.

Victorious: Savage an sexy! Digging the bow, the outfit and oh, the fire! That's so Wereavi!

Woah, geez, barely into a relationship and Kharjo goes beserko when Aravi sold her soul, or at least he thought she did. I understand his concern though, and it was good to see him calm down a bit after that. She's infertile? Can't get pregos? That's some mighty sad news right there. Hopefully Dibella can fix that. Aravi better get cat-butt to the chapel.


No! You lie! That's not true . . .that's impossible! You just ruined my almost perfect Serana. Why!?

It's not like I said she sparkles in the sunlight!

Screens first. Winter Road: Love that smile! She looks so snug in her hood and warm foot wraps. What a pretty snowfall.

Feast: What a great pose! Love the eyes. Looks like that meal came in a steel can.

Whoa, Aravi is looking nicely toned in Victorious. That fire is beautiful, and her posture and expression say I win!



I love that Kharjo is holding Aravi accountable to him. His thoughts in his unique voice are a delight to read.


Aww. Very sweet, and also Kharjo is not letting Aravi squirm her way out of it. I think Aravi has found a mate who is worthy of her!

How very sad for Aravi (and for the hopeful Kharjo) that her fertility was stolen from her. Her past continues to hurt her, but I'm sure that like other problems (recurring vampire infections) she will face and deal with it.


I just love this passage and everything that it means. What a great update, KC!

@Elisabeth: When I was writing that scene I couldn’t imagine anyone NOT being pissed off about what Aravi did. Big wink LOL. Thanks Elisabeth!

@Acadian: Winter – Aravi’s dressed for it so she’s just fine. Loved that section of road.
Feast – yep.
Victorious – That fire was once an atronach.

Kharjo’s logic – He’s a smart guy! That line is the one I am most happy with in this chaper. Remember when Kharjo had to drag everything out of her? They are doing much better together. I’m sure the kitty licks will help smooth things over. Thanks Acadian!

@Mustard: Winter road – Everyone needs a little break.

They’ve cared deeply for each other for quite a while now. Kharjo doesn’t trust Serana, so hearing Aravi both let Serana take her soul and then went to a realm of Oblivion with her was a rude shock to him.

The bloody hands was a spur of the moment addition. Glad you liked. Thanks Colonel!

@SubRosa: Feast – Aravi would agree with you normally.

Once in a while a first person pronoun leaks through! Though that does happen in game too, so I’m not terribly upset when it happens. They probably pick up some local mannerisms.

Lol, I’ll let Kharjo know that she is NordRaceFemale. I’ve actually had some trouble with Serana that I thought was related to sunlight. She was downed once and would not recover until nightfall. Aravi and Kharjo had to wait all day.

Kharjo’s going to feel better as long as she stays on Nirn and doesn’t give her soul away to anyone. Although he is not going to be happy with some of those Serana required quests. Thanks SubRosa!

@DE: Winter road – I’d guess a troll if that’s the section of road I think it is.
Fancy Feast – I can’t believe I just wrote that… anyways I’m pretty sure that was just a bandit chief. They’ve been showing up in that carved armor a lot since I installed Dragonborn. Aravi’s still got her green eyes as a wolf!
Victorious – Lol, looks like a Kraven style of clothing.

Aravi was expecting Kharjo’s reaction to that bit of news, so she was ready for it. He was pissed because he cared! And nope, no little Khajiit from Aravi. There may be a way to repair the damage, but we’ll see if that comes about. Thanks DE!

@Grits: Winter road – it was a delight to take that screen.
Victorious – The lighting really brought out her shape. I love it!

Kharjo’s not letting her hide everything from him!

I was so happy with Kharjo’s line to get Aravi to go with him. How could she not go with him then?

She’s always going to have that reminder of what was taken from her.

Glad you liked the illusion passage. There is a time and a place for illusion, but when you are working something out with your significant other, bending their will is NOT the right thing to do. Thanks Grits!

<<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>><<>>

Durnehviir gets to feel the sun once again. Then Aravi and Kharjo deliver a summons from the Greybeads to General Tullius. It is finally time to pause the Nord’s civil war and bring down Alduin.

7:46

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Screens!
Exchanging arrows with a keeper

Center stage

Charge!

Dragon battle & alternative

Center stage is my favorite

I laughed at the trading arrows picture...that ghost is all "wut?" XD

I loved Charge in this; the pose, the lighting and the positioning of the camera were all perfect! What's that purple effect on Aravi, out of interest? Some kind of spell she uses? Also, pretty sword is pretty. I like it.

I'll have to watch the video later, I'm afraid, if I can find the time.

What fabulous action you captured as Aravi trades arrows with old blue eyes, then charges a dragon!

Hey, any vid that opens on a beautiful day with butterflies is a winner.

I knew it – woot – Durnehviir! How cool is he?!? And I can imagine how good the sun must finally feel on his mighty wings.

Doublewoots on the horse! Kharjo walking is not a bad thing. Half the benefit of the horse is to carry much of their burden and probably half his gear can be loaded up with Aravi on the horse.

Oh yes, back to emissary duty for this peace conference. I thought that Legion general was pretty cool.

Gosh, I really enjoyed this vid!

Heh. What clothes?

So undead dragon tries to get a tan, eh? Welcome back to Tamriel, Durnehviir.

Exchanging Arrows with a keeper: Keep the arrows, keeper! And hehe . . . that lost soul looks lost.

Center Stage:Aravi in the Cairn's spotlight, eh!! Nice! Looks so dangerous, too!

Charge:Aravi is helluva brave Khajiit! Going face to face with an undead flying reptile! Amazing! I didn't realize how scary he looks up close.

Dragonbattle: This was bright. A very bright fight indeed. Fire everywhere. But I do know who wins this fight.

Alternative: Damn, fire, you scary!

I love how Durnehviir comes out of the ground! And Aravi learned a Drain Life shout? That's so cool! Easily my favorite shout next to firebreath.

Aravi gets some extra money by selling crops. Good old farming partime job. Yeah! New horse! I must say she's a beautiful looking steed! Fits her perfectly

Aravi is for the Legion? For the Empire!? Or maybe she comes bearing a peace message from the Greybeards. I don't see Aravi taking sides in the conflict.

Oh my gosh, I loved seeing Durnehviir’s first flight. Really neat, especially with all of those butterflies about. Aravi picked a beautiful day for him. The fact that he talked to Aravi really fires the imagination.

“Ride Aravi’s Horse,” yay! Her tail looks very cute when she’s riding. That horse looks like he could carry several Aravis! I do love the Skyrim horses.

Wow, what a conversational opportunity with General Tullius. I can’t see him apologizing for Captain “Forget the List”’s eagerness to behead her, though. Love his cape!

The Soul Cairn pictures are great. They really capture the bleak beauty of the place. I particularly like the faceoff with Durnehviir. But the dragon battle is just awesome!!

*

Love that last screen best, but Aravi's expression in both it and the first one is very cute!

I love this line:

I am loving these little Aravi stories!


Next:

Those first two screens are tremendous! On the last two, is that your summon dragon fighting? Awesome!

Does Aravi get a new word of power each time she summons the dragon? Very cool, I wonder what the words do? I don't think I've seen that town before, very nice! Awesome Updates, both of them!


*

@Elisabeth: Lol, I didn’t even look at that guy until you mentioned him. Thanks!

@Mustard: It was kind of difficult to get good pictures of Aravi fighting Durn so that was one of the few I was happy with. The blue is the effects of one of Durnehviir’s shouts. The sword is one of the Dragonborn DLC items. Thanks Colonel!

@Acadian: Lol, Aravi’s busy!

I always think of Buffy when I see butterflies around. Glad you like Durnehviir! He is so cool. Thanks Acadian!

@DE: What clothes? You wish.

Charge – He is an undead dragon after all.

Durn is pretty useful in some situations because he is summoned on the ground. I think he’s very helpful to have around with many enemies. If there is a single tough enemy… another is more useful.

Aravi ignored the crops lady. She wanted a horse!

It is funny how both sides immediately send her to the recruiter as soon as she speaks to them. Thanks DE!

@Grits: After all that gloom for centuries, I don’t know how Durn stayed on the ground long enough to talk to Aravi?

I love how Khajiit have their tails when they ride. As Acadian said, Aravi isn’t a burden at all!

Tullius… was what I pretty much expected from a general. She looked useful and even though he was going to execute her, ‘hey sign up!’

Yay! I loved watching those dragons fight! Thanks Grits!

@mALX: Glad you made it in mALX. I’m very happy you liked the stories.

The last two screens – Yep! Aravi’s dragon is the one breathing fire.

She’ll learn 3 words in total from Durn. Thanks mALX!

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Begin the story with Grits’ entry in the “Today In Skyrim” thread.

Magnus climbed over the mountains in the east to finally banish the night for another day. Aravi squinted in the light, her eyes not adjusted after walking in the gloom of twilight. The warm, golden light was at odds with the chill air that nipped at her fingers and nose still. Underfoot, the paving stones were glazed with frost. As the day matured, they would thaw out, and the road would be pleasantly warm under her feet. The steady clack of heavy boots on the road behind her let her know where Kharjo was.

After convincing General Tullius to meet at High Hrothgar to discuss a truce the day before, Aravi and Kharjo descended from Solitude to stay at Dragon Bridge. They set out early in the morning; she hoped to not see that little village for a long time. She was mortified when she learned that she and Kharjo weren’t as quiet as she had thought they were in their room at night. The Nord woman that ran the inn had an all too knowing smile when Aravi paid for their room and breakfast that morning. Kharjo took that opportunity to tease her as they ate, and nearly everything he said had sexual overtones. By the end of the meal, he and the innkeeper were roaring with laughter, and Aravi was all too happy to leave. “Another buttered bun for this one,” he said as he waggled his eyebrows. She’d never wanted to throw a hot cup of tea at someone before then.

Despite how embarrassed she was then, she couldn’t help but smile now. I'll find some way to get even with him. The road south to Riften was long and would take several days. They would be passing through Rorikstead and she planned on resting there for a bit. Maybe…

She moved to the side of the road and walked in the damp dirt that was now thawing in the sunlight. The soft ground was easier on her feet, but the real reason was to get a look at the plants growing nearby. Kharjo will want a drink when we stop… maybe he will have an unfortunate reaction to one of the drinks. Aravi smiled wickedly to herself. Revenge.

~~~

She found it! She examined the mass of green in her hand. Giant’s Lichen. She barely saw it out of the corner of her eye. This, with that sabre cat fang in my pack, and Kharjo’s first drink will knock him flat.

The sun was directly overhead now. The easy slopes of Hjaalmarch transitioned to the steep rocky hills of the Reach. The land was treacherous if you strayed from the road. Rorikstead was only a few miles down the road and she was beginning to think she wouldn’t find anything she could use.

“What are you doing? This one thinks you are much too interested in whatever it is you are holding.”

Aravi flicked her ears, realizing she had them perked forward. She stilled her waving tail. “What do you mean? I found something useful for my alchemy.”

“You’ve been picking flowers all morning. What does this lump do that they don’t?”

“It enhances the effects of other poisons. Makes them stronger than they would be on their own.”

Kharjo peered dubiously at the pile of green and dirt. “This one still doesn’t get what is so exciting.”

“I’ll show you sometime.” Don’t smile. He knew something was up, the way he was looking down at her. The grin threatened to break through her neutral mask. Look innocent. She felt the corners of her lips quirk as she looked up a Kharjo.

“Why does this one feel uneasy?”

Aravi chuckled. “I have no idea why you would feel that way. Let’s get moving, Rorikstead isn’t far and I’m getting hungry.”

“Maybe if you had stayed for another bun at breakfast you would not be so hungry now,” Kharjo teased.

Aravi tapped his nose with a claw tipped finger. “Watch it, or you won’t be having any more buns.” She put on a serious expression. Kharjo kept grinning.

“If you want to look fierce, you shouldn’t twitch your tail like that.”

Aravi turned away and started walking. He won’t know what hit him – what’s that? She saw someone in green-brown robes just off the road, an open book in one hand and examining something else on the ground.

“Kharjo? Where did he come from?” She didn’t see him before and that made her nervous.

“He just came over the hill a few minutes ago while you were digging in the dirt. He appears to be doing the same. This one kept an eye on him.” Kharjo paused as he watched the figure stoop to the ground. “Khajiit doubts he even knows we are here.”

“He looks like a mage. Think we can pass him?”

The mage stooped and set a bag down, apparently collecting something useful.

“Khajiit thinks so. He doesn’t look like he is in a position to attack anyone. If he does, then he will be easy to shoot.” Kharjo pulled his crossbow off of his back and loaded a bolt. He carried it at ease, but Aravi knew how fast he could get a shot off with it.

They resumed walking, the road bringing them closer to him. He was collecting mountain flowers, cutting the stems neatly with a dagger. Aravi couldn’t see the man’s face, but his precise movements collecting the ingredients triggered something in her mind. As she watched, she saw him pass over perfectly healthy flowers, being sure to leave some behind as he collected.

She stopped walking and stared at him… her mind searching. I’ve met this man before.

“Darnand?” she said aloud. Hazel eyes looked up from the flowers and met Aravi’s green. She saw the spark of recognition. “What are you doing here?” she asked.

~~~

“Oof!”

Aravi’s breath was knocked from her when the Breton ran to her. She was pulled tight and squeezed; she felt her toes leave the ground. Her arms hung uselessly for a few moments in stunned shock. He’s hugging me? She wrapped her arms around him, less to return the hug and more to prevent herself from being dropped. Darnand was surprisingly strong for a slight mage. Aravi turned her head to Kharjo who looked as stunned as she felt. He gave her a look as if to say, ”What’s this?”

Aravi mouthed back, “I don’t know.”

“Uh, Darnand? I’m glad to see you too, but could you set me down?”

“Huh? Oh.”

He carefully set her down and they both took a step back, Darnand clearly embarrassed. Despite that, he had a broad grin on his face that he made no attempt to control. “Aravi, it is wonderful to see you again. I apologize for my rash actions.”

“No apology needed, you just caught me off guard. This is the last place I would have expected to see you.”

“I can say the same.”

Kharjo spoke. Aravi was glad to see the crossbow was put away. “Aravi, who is this… friendly Breton?”

“This is Darnand Penoit of Chorrol. He is a member of Cyrodiil’s Mage’s Guild and,” she looked at him for confirmation, “the College of Winterhold. He is a powerful mage and a friend.” He bobbed his head slightly at her praise and offered a hand to Kharjo.

Darnand’s eyes only reached Kharjo’s nose; he had to look up at the large Khajiit. Kharjo was also much heavier built than the slim mage. His size didn’t seem to bother Darnand at all.

“Darnand, this is Kharjo. He is a strong warrior who has traveled longer and farther than either of us has. He guarded one of the caravans before taking up with me.”

Kharjo pulled off his armored gauntlet to shake Darnand’s hand. “Khajiit greets you friend.”

“Well met Kharjo.” Darnand was still smiling, though he had a better handle on it now.

“What are you doing here?” Aravi asked.

“I am collecting ingredients,” Darnand stated. “Oh, that is not what you mean. I came to Skyrim to learn from the College of Winterhold. They are more free on… certain topics of study that I am interested in. Jerric came to find more of his family.”

“Where is Jerric?”

“That is actually why I am so glad to see you. He is in jail.” He hesitated a little. “I need help getting him out.” He looked to the ground.

The request took Aravi off guard. He wants me to break Jerric out of jail? “…I can’t do that Darnand. Even if I possessed the skills to do that without attracting every guard… What did he do?”

Darnand looked up quickly seeing his error. “No, no! That is not what I meant. Where are you going? I will explain as we walk. I have enough ingredients I think, just let me collect my things.”

He walked quickly to where he left his things. Aravi saw something shine in the grass and picked it up: Darnand’s dagger. She glanced at Kharjo, who still looked uncertain about this mage.

Darnand returned to them, stuffing a copy of Herbalist’s Guide To Skyrim in his bag. Aravi offered the dagger hilt first.

His eyes widened slightly. “Thank you, I did not realize I had dropped it.”

“I’m glad you did before you tried hugging me,” Aravi said with a smile. “We are going to Rorikstead and you may join us.”

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Credits where they are due:

Thank you so much Grits for the opportunity to feature Darnand. Working with you on these cross overs have been such a pleasure!

And thanks to Julienya for the beautiful illustrations! This update wouldn't be the same without them! Check out her gallery!

All of this collaborating makes me want to do it lol

“What are you doing? This one thinks you are much too interested in whatever it is you are holding.”
One nice thing about Kharjo’s distinctive voice is that it somewhat eases the need for speech tags.

Some rarely seen glimpses at Aravi's sense of wicked humor as she plots to repay Kharjo's lack of discretion.

What fun to see Darnand in Skyrim. The way he was collecting ingredients was quite recognizable as the mage we know and love. The bit with the dagger near the end though, was truly some inspired Darnandness at its finest!

Love K-Kat’s reaction of course. So it seems Aravi is once again waylaid to help someone. At least it is friends this time!

Your screen and Julienya's drawings add plenty of scrumptious beauty to this fun episode!

Nits:
‘This one kept and eye on him.’
You want ‘an’ instead of ‘and’ here of course.

‘He is a strong warrior that has traveled longer and farther than either of us has.’
Admittedly rather grammatically picky, but I recommend ‘who’ instead of ‘that’. In this type of context, ‘who’ is used for people (including TES types with tails or pointed ears), while ‘that’ is used for things or groups.
EDIT: I am reminded that my second 'nit' occurs within a segment of dialogue, so the degree of correctness with which Aravi speaks is purely up to the author. Sorry for the oversight.

Question:

Answer:

GAAAAAH! I could see the three words, lol. Does she get them just by summoning him each time? And what do they do?


Now:

Kharjo was funny, the sex must have put him in a good mood, lol.

Wait, Aravi's response to his teasing is to POISON HIM? Weakness to Poison X2, Weakness to Shock, and Ravage Health? GAAAAAH! Not funny!

Is this a sign of her having her soul messed with? Pretty scary stuff!

Juliana's drawings were Awesome, most especially Kharjo and that expression on his face!

Holy Cow, a coop with Jerric and Darnand in Skyrim too? WOO HOO !!! Awesome update, just not sure about Aravi's idea of a joke - now I'm wondering what else happened to her soul in that Soul Cairn.

Terenna always like making friends. I'm sure that Kayla would be fine with having somebody like her along

I found that episode a lot of fun throughout, and the cameo with Darnand was perfect, as was the comic (Kharjo's face was pure gold). Slightly alarming with the plan to poison his ale, but seeing Aravi's plan is to knock him out with his first drink, I think it shouldn't do any harm long-term. I hope, at least.

Just a quick clarification, Aravi isn't planning anything that will cause permanent harm... except maybe to someone's ego.

Who knew Kharjo could be so . . .eh . . .raunchy. I do enjoy him more than ever now. You managed to give life to his character indeed and their relationship together is great! I love his wtf expression when he sees our resident mage/alchemist Darnarnd show up. Didn't they work together in Cyrodiil against vampires?

Hmm.

Love the reunion here!! I also wonder if Darnard had any life-altering potions or something to make him live this long? Or is his age completely ignored here? Just curious

Darnand is amazing and wonderful. That's why he's everywhere. XD

How nice to see a dragon flying around that isn't going to attack for a change.

Aravi's buying a horse! Too bad you cannot get one for Kharjo.

I see Tullius is his usual sarcastic self. At least Aravi did not have to fight her way out of the Castle!

Fun pics! Like Grits, said, while the ones with the battle against Durny were neat, the two dragon battles were the coolest.

Magnus Climbing the Mountains was another wonderful study in color.

She was mortified when she learned that she and Kharjo weren’t as quiet as she had thought they were in their room at night.
Doh!

What a welcome surprise from Darnand! Neat pics by Julienya again. Now I see where your new avatar came from too!

What a great detail. It puts me right in the scene and also connects with my own game memories of road trips with a partner, listening to where they are by their footsteps.


Kharjo’s bawdy humor really suits him! This is the guy who advises against mixing strong drink and gambling, so you know he has some stories. Also it is very reassuring that he has no problem embarrassing the heck out of Aravi. He does not have to walk on eggshells around her, afraid of making a mistake.

And then Aravi shows her humor with the plan to spike the big guy’s drink! I just love the depth these written parts give to your characters.

I am SO delighted to see Darnand in Aravi’s world! I love that you put in Jerric’s flower harvesting lesson from the very first chapter. And his very literal answers had me rolling. Plus, the dagger! Oh Darnand.

But it’s Kharjo’s reaction that made me laugh the most. His face in Julienya’s illustration was just priceless! He went from ready to shoot to shocked by his woman being hugged off her feet to the very polite “Khajiit greets you friend” without hesitation, taking his cues from Aravi. I thought that was a great display of their trust and partnership.

That screen shot is so beautiful. And Julienya’s awesome drawing makes me grin until it hurts! Darnand is so relieved to see a friendly face, and Kharjo’s expression is hilarious! I really enjoyed this, KC!

@Elisabeth: Collaborations are so much fun! And yes, Darnand is awesome. Thanks!

@Acadian: Kharjo’s dialogue is fun to write because it is so different. Aravi’s definitely more cheerful in this episode than normal.

I was worried I would have problems capturing Darnand, but once I started writing it just came. Grits has done a wonderful job letting us get to know him.

Julienya did a beautiful job, and I am very glad I bugged her to draw that scene. Thanks Acadian!

@mALX: Yes, all she has to do is summon him into the world to learn the next word. Aravi hasn’t used the word, but I believe they absorb health, stamina, and magicka. If they die under the effect I believe they become a zombie. Not entirely sure. Not Aravi’s favorite shout.

Everybody is in a good mood.

You will see what will happen to Kharjo but I assure you it is not harmful. Her soul is back to normal, she has healed by this time. Thanks mALX!

@Mustard: This one is meant to be cheerful, so I’m glad you found it fun. Once I knew what would happen I made sure I bugged the artist until she relented and drew that scene. Thanks Colonel!

@DE: Kharjo spent time gambling in the Imperial City, so he’s been around. It seemed natural for him to antagonize Aravi a bit with his humor.

You’ll have to talk to Grits, but I’m just ignoring timeline issues. Thanks DE!

@SubRosa: There are a couple of dragons available in game, Durn is one.

I do wish Kharjo could have a horse as well, however the mods that allow it look more involved than I would want to get into.

The dragon battle screen is the other dragon you can eventually summon. It’s the one breathing fire.

And I saw your comment on my avatar in your thread. Thank you very much!

@Grits: I do the same in my game. His heavy armor makes it easy to know where he is without looking.

I thought those joke would suit him. He knows Aravi can take some teasing. She can’t be serious all the time.

I am so pleased you enjoyed Darnand’s part. He came very naturally when I set to writing him, which I attribute to your skill. Glad you liked the illustrations too! Thanks Grits!

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Kharjo kept to himself as they walked the final leg to Rorikstead. The mage walked just ahead of him, abreast with Aravi. Kharjo kept his eyes moving, knowing that Aravi wouldn’t be keeping a careful watch while she was focused on the Breton. He didn’t know what to think of this unexpected companion. He does not look like much to this one. Darnand had a thin frame below those robes. And despite lifting Aravi in the air, his arms were skinny. The heaviest thing he regularly lifts is that bag of books, Kharjo speculated. He knew better than to dismiss the mage however. Kharjo can look at a warrior and gauge them by their equipment and how they carry themselves. Mages were different to him; their powers and talents were hidden from view. Aravi trusts him, and she is a good judge of people. He listened as they talked.

“Tell me what happened to Jerric. I’ll help you if I can, but I can’t break someone out of jail,” Aravi said.

By the moons Khajiit is glad of that. Like many Khajiit that come from Elsweyr, Kharjo found out that other people have a different view of personal property. This one would not like to end up in prison again.

“Yes of course I would not ask you to do something like that,” Darnand replied.

Kharjo saw Aravi’s ears flick. She does not quite believe that.

Kharjo listened to Darnand’s smooth tenor as he described the problem he was facing.

“You need help getting this shield for the jarl,” Aravi said. Darnand’s head bobbed as he nodded.

Aravi looked back at Kharjo, the question in her eyes. She wants to help. He shrugged his shoulders. What is another stinking cave?

“Ok. We’ll help you. Where is it?”

The relief could be heard in Darnand’s voice. “It is called Lost Valley Redoubt. The road to Markarth goes right past it, if you take the fork just east of Rorikstead.”

~~~

Kharjo sat across from Darnand in the far corner of the inn where the locals wouldn’t bother them much. Aravi went to the counter to get them some drinks.

Kharjo watched as the Breton carefully swept the tabletop with his hands. Then he produced a map, unfolded it, and started studying it. There were several different markings on it that Kharjo could guess at what they represented.

“This one was wondering how you met Aravi,” Kharjo asked. He wasn’t sure what else to do while they waited.

Darnand didn’t look up from his map when he answered. “I met her in Cyrodiil. Jerric, Lildereth, and I, were investigating some disappearances at a village when we met by chance.”

“Lildereth scared me when she sneaked behind me inside that fort,” Aravi remarked. “Is she around?” Aravi joined them at the table, placing a mug in front of each of them.

Darnand looked up from his map. “No she is not.”

“Where is she?”

“She is in Cyrodiil.”

“She didn’t come with you two? What is she doing?”

“No she did not. I… ah, do not really know.” Darnand looked a little uncomfortable.

The table was silent for a moment. Kharjo took a drink of his mead. Whoa. That was stronger than he thought it would be. He blinked and looked at his mug. “You have to tell this one what happened at the fort.”

Aravi began. “I was sent to check a ruin that was known to have hosted a nest of vampires before. When I got there I found it in use. I also met Darnand, Jerric, and Lildereth. It was the first time I had worked with a group that big, and nearly the last.” She looked at Darnand pointedly who reddened slightly.

“That was not my greatest showing,” he agreed.

“What does that mean?” Kharjo asked. He was beginning to feel a little dizzy. How strong is this mead? Darnand looked completely fine, despite drinking roughly the same amount. This disturbed Kharjo a little, considering Darnand’s size compared to his.

“My conjured daedra got out of hand.”

For such a mild statement, Kharjo had an idea that it was a lot worse than this Breton let it appear.

“Did you get us the same drink?” Kharjo asked Aravi, no longer able to contain his thoughts.

“I got you and Darnand some mead, sorry Darnand I hope that was ok. I didn’t know what to get you. I also got us some stew that should be ready soon. It looked good now that Erik is out being an adventurer.” Erik, the innkeeper’s son, was a poor cook. That didn’t stop his father from having him do it all.

With that, Darnand started folding up his map. He did it quickly, like it was a familiar action. Kharjo usually had to fold and refold a map several times, or more often just folded it against the creases.

“I usually prefer wine, but this mead is delightful. It is a far cry from the ales Jerric drinks. Thank you.”

“What did you get to drink?” Kharjo asked Aravi.

“I just got some milk.” She took a sip, looking at him.

“Did they fill mine and Darnand’s from the same cask?”

“Yes. Is there something wrong with your drink?”

YES. “No, it is just stronger than this one expected.”

Aravi looked at Darnand. “Is yours strong?”

“Maybe a little.” He looked at Kharjo uncertainly.

Kharjo was starting to feel embarrassed. Khajiit will finish this drink and pass on any others, he decided. He was getting doubts that he would be able to finish this one however.

“So, is there anything you can tell us about this Forsworn camp?”

Kharjo was relieved that the attention was off of him for the moment. He listened to Darnand describe the Forsworn camp with growing anxiety. What did we get dragged into? It sounds like a fortress! By the end, Darnand looked pale.

“There is a hagraven somewhere in there as well,” Darnand concluded nervously.

The table was silent a moment. Kharjo was doing his best to not sway in his seat.

Aravi asked, “How far away is it?”

“A few hours walking distance. We could potentially be there before nightfall if we left soon.”

“I don’t want to do that. I want to see the fortress in good light before we attack. We’ll stay here for the rest of the day and leave in the morning.”

Kharjo saw them both glance at him. His face heated up, realizing they both saw him holding onto the table for dear life. By the Gods.

“That would be best,” Darnand agreed. “Would you know where I might find some alchemy equipment? I have some potions to make.”

Alchemy. Alchemy. Kharjo thought back to that morning on the road.

“It enhances the effects of other poisons. Makes them stronger than they would be on their own,” Aravi said.

Kharjo peered dubiously at the pile of green and dirt. “This one still doesn’t get what is so exciting.”

“I’ll show you sometime.”

Kharjo stood up, almost falling over in the process, and declared with a pointed finger, “You did something didn’t you!” Aravi’s innocent look confirmed his suspicions. “This one knows it!”

She fooled Darnand though, “I think it is time to get you a room.” He stood up and cast a fortification spell before moving to Kharjo. “Come on.”

“She did something!” Kharjo whined weakly as he was led away from the table. The floorboards suddenly rushed up to meet his nose, but a strong grip on his shoulder helped him stay upright. Kharjo blinked and looked at the slim Breton now holding him steady. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to hug or hit the man. He settled on remaining upright as he was led to a bed.

~~~

Aravi allowed the grin to spill over her face. She discreetly watched Kharjo’s reaction with each drink he took and towards the end it was a losing battle to keep it from her features. Darnand was expertly guiding Kharjo to his room now. A few of the town’s folk laughed at the sight of a slight Breton leading a large and drunk Khajiit warrior. A serving girl in her early-teens appeared with three bowls of stew, looking confused. “You ordered three bowls?”

“Yes, just leave them here.”

The girl placed all three bowls in front of Aravi and turned to leave, saying, “You cats sure eat a lot.”

There will be a rumor about Khajiit and their appetites soon.

Darnand returned after a few minutes. “He is settled in bed and resting, I got him some water and a bucket should he need it. I encouraged him to sleep with a mild potion.” Aravi started laughing more. Darnand got a quizzical look on his face. “That is what I do with Jerric sometimes to keep him in bed, forgive me if that was not all right.”

“We’re not going anywhere for the rest of the day then,” Aravi said.

“Is he normally that sensitive to the effects of drinks and potions?” Aravi could tell he thought something was off. He lifted his drink to his lips.

“Oh no, I put something in his drink before I brought it over.”

Darnand’s eyes flew wide and he started coughing. He set his drink down. “You mean he was right? Why?”

“Just getting even with him for something he did earlier.” Aravi’s tail twitched.

“Did you put anything in mine?” Danand asked nervously.

“Would I have a reason to?” she asked with a threatening smile. Aravi couldn’t help but make him squirm a little. She was having too much fun now.

“Um… well that incident in the clearing with your tail… Aravi please just tell me.” His face paled.

Aravi chuckled again. Should I let him off the hook? He actually looks very worried. “I didn’t do anything to your drink. Here have some stew before it gets cold.”

Darnand eyed the bowls suspiciously. Aravi’s stomach was sore from laughing. “Oh Darnand, here I’ll let you choose which bowl you want.” She lined them up in a row.

Sweat dotted his forehead. Aravi heard his stomach growl, but he could not choose a bowl. “Aravi! I cannot choose knowing I may doom myself with the poisoned bowl!”

“I didn’t tamper with any of them,” Aravi said. “I promise.” The mirth in her voice didn’t help her credibility. Darnand gave her a look that said he didn’t quite believe her. “Do you want me to taste all of them?” she offered.

“No that is quite alright.” He bravely selected a bowl, the farthest one from him, and took a bite. He looked as if he had condemned himself.

Aravi selected her own bowl and started eating as well. Should I say something? No, I think that’s enough for today. “You may have the other bowl as well if you wish.”

Darnand was feeling more confident as he ate. He eyed the other bowl hungrily. “Is that one not for Kharjo?”

“It’ll be cold long before we see him again. Go ahead and eat it, I’ll get something fresh for him when he wakes up.”

They ate in silence for a few minutes.

“How long have you known Kharjo? How did you meet?” Darnand asked in between bites. He wiped his mouth with a handkerchief.

Aravi waited to finish chewing. “We met a little over a year ago. I met his caravan on the road in between Windhelm and Dawnstar. That area is full of bandits and I asked one of the guards if he had any problems with attacks. The guard said that he had an amulet stolen. I decided to get it back for him.”

“This was Kharjo?”

“Yes.”

“You recovered this amulet for, at the time, a total stranger?”

Aravi blushed a little. “Yes I did. I know it sounds silly but I wanted to help. After I brought it back, Kharjo was delighted and offered to travel with me. We’ve been together since.”

Aravi was glad Darnand was here. Coming to Skyrim, she didn’t expect to see anyone she knew from Cyrodiil again. It was comforting to see someone familiar, especially Darnand.

She was curious about Darnand, she wanted to know if he cared for anyone the way she cared about Kharjo. She didn’t feel comfortable asking something that personal however. She wanted news of Lildereth, but he didn’t seem to know anything. “How is Jerric now?” Aravi asked.

“I assume you mean before he was thrown in prison. Jerric is, I daresay, Jerric as usual. Stubborn, drinks too much, brawls too often. He makes inappropriate jests, tells far too much of the truth, and risks our necks on a daily basis. He braids my quills into his hair and uses my ink for warpaint. My quills and ink! Quills do not grow on trees, you know.”

No, thought Aravi, smiling to herself. They grow on geese.

“His frost spells are loud enough to start an avalanche,” Darnand continued. “Despite the advancements in alchemy apparatus his potions would still choke a horker. And when he is not under a skirt, you can be certain that he is trying to get there.” The Breton pinched the bridge of his nose. “I wonder how he fares in the mine. They would not allow me to see him.”

I would swear they were brothers had Darnand been a Nord or Jerric a Breton. “If I didn’t know better, I would think that you were trying to get under my skirt.”

Darnand looked puzzled. “What would give you that idea?”

“We didn’t even know each other for a day before you grabbed my rear, then today with that hug…”

“That was an accident! Jerric pushed me and I tripped! I would never presume to do such a thing.”

“Suuuure,” Aravi said, drawing out the word. “What about the hug?”

“I was happy to see you.”

Aravi laughed. “You aren’t helping your case!”

Darnand saw his mistake. He began sputtering but Aravi interrupted, “I’m just teasing Darnand. I was happy to see you too.”

He relaxed. “When I accidentally seized the base of your tail, I believe you hit me on the back of my head.”

Aravi remembered. “Yes, sorry. You kind of surprised me. I think I bruised my hand…”

“I was told you handled the vampires much more… calmly than you did the spider daedra.”

“I really, really do not like spiders.” She shuddered at the memory of the daedric monstrosity. Nothing needs that many legs.

Darnand looked above her and squinted. “Perhaps you should be made aware that-“

She was out of her seat before he finished. “Where??” She looked up and saw nothing. “Is it on me?” She looked at Darnand, only to see a satisfied smile.

She sat back down and glared at the Breton. “Spiders are no laughing matter.”

“I think I do see why Jerric enjoys his ridiculous pranks.” Darnand leaned back in his seat. “He cheats at dice too. There is no way someone can be that lucky. The statistics are too improbable.” His mind was wandering. Then his eyes settled on Aravi. “Are you brushing your hair?”

Aravi put her hand back on the table. “I feel crawly now, no thanks to you.”

“What do you do when those frostbite spiders are around?”

“I shoot them. Kharjo squishes them.” Her hiss was as venomous as the spider’s bite. She shivered again. Now I wish Kharjo wasn’t in bed. Leave it to Darnand to sour my revenge.

Her ears perked back up. “What happened after we went our separate ways? Tell me everything.”

“Everything? It is a long tale, even without the proper embellishments,” Darnand warned.

Aravi glanced towards Kharjo’s door. “We’ve got time.” She leaned forward to better hear as Darnand began speaking of Cyrodiil.

Poor Kharjo! Most guys are gross with their humor. They're bragging lol. I hope Lildreth is doing alright.

I love when you write about Aravi.

I like how you brought out how Aravi and Darnand met, even as we see her liquid prank beginning to play out on Kharjo. So the big cat ends up doubly sedated in bed for the day. When he gets up, I wonder if he will prolong the pranking by accusing Aravi and Darnand of getting him out of the way so they could be alone? I’ll bet he could get Aravi spun up over that!

Then we have a POV change to Aravi. This might have been an excellent point to break this delightful, but long, episode into two. I loved how Darnand fooled Aravi into thinking a spider was above her head and hearing snips of the news regarding Jerric and Lildereth. Braiding quills into his hair!

I applaud you and Grits for cheerfully ignoring the preposterous two century penalty for walking across the border between Cyrodiil and Skyrim. Did the devs learn nothing from watching characters move seamlessly back and forth between Cyrodiil and Morrowind?

Your skill with prose and editing are excellent. I do have some questions/comments though for your consideration:
“You need help getting this shield for the jarl,” Aravi said. Darnand’s head bobbed as he nodded. ’
Bobbing and nodding seem redundant here. Perhaps either: ‘Darnand’s bobbing head confirmed Aravi’s statement.’ Or, ‘Darnand nodded his reply.’

“It is called Lost Valley Redoubt. The road to Markarth goes right passed it, if you take the fork just east of Rorikstead.”
I recommend past vs passed here. Passed is the past participle of pass; the verb here is ‘goes’. Past, however, can be used as a perfectly good adverb here to amplify goes. Had you said ‘You passed (verb) it as you walked past (adverb) Markarth, you would have been grammatically correct (albeit redundant). Lol. More info on the subject, which is admittedly a bit confusing: http://www.dailywritingtips.com/passed-vs-past/

“There is a hargraven somewhere in there as well,”
Is it hargraven or hagraven?

Great line!

Kharjo's watchfulness was fascinating!

I wonder what is going on with Lildereth? Oh dear, now I'm worried for her!

Aravi accusing Darnand of coming on to her? ROFL! Poor Darnand is too shy to even come on to Abiene, who he loves! That was funny!

Poor Kharjo, I wonder if he'll break friendship with Aravi for this? Maybe not, guys are always punching each other in the nuts as a joke, so their senses of humor are a lot different than women's. Me - I can't see the humor in it. Kharjo is a friend who trusts Aravi. Drugging him unsuspecting and then lying to him about it - to me that is a breach of trust, and kind of extreme retribution for the light teasing he gave her. Had he pulled a mean prank on her - geez, after this he'd better go into hiding, lol.

Aravi's personality was always quiet and protective. These last two written parts she has undergone a change, I thought it was from the Soul Cairn. Sorry about misunderstanding that.

Long, but an Awesome Write!

I liked Kharjo's thoughts on Darnand as the story opened. Including his musings on personal property!

Kharjo took a drink of his mead. Whoa. That was stronger than he thought it would be.
Uh oh, methinks this is payback!

It looked good now that Erik is out being an adventurer.


Aravi is a milkdrinker!

No, thought Aravi, smiling to herself.They grow on geese.
I was thinking that too! Oh, and you missed a space after the period between sentences.

Kharjo’s thoughts had me rolling throughout. He started off confident with What is another stinking cave? and then ended up at What did we get dragged into? It sounds like a fortress! while holding on to the table! I loved his assessment of mage-bodied Darnand as well as his thoughts about not underestimating mages.


Poor Darnand is so used to Jerric’s shenanigans he probably cast a few Cure Everything spells on himself as soon as he could! Hopefully he won’t try out his hangover remedy on Kharjo.


That was awesome. I love how they settled in for a chat after Darnand devoured two bowls of stew. He wouldn’t have eaten in recent memory without someone to put food in front of him.

This was great fun, KC!

I particularly love the part where Aravi talks about wanting to help a stranger, Kharjo. That’s the same kindness that made Darnand so glad to see her that he hugged her off her feet in relief. Not just a familiar face, but someone who could and probably would really help him.

Darnand is awesome in both fics. His mannerisms just tickle me.

Kharjo gambled too? Haha. Careful! Stuff like that could get him into slavery

So we're off to Lost Valley Redout! I enjoyed the conversation they both had and it ties in with what is currenly happening in Grit's story! This was a pretty interesting thing here. I loved it! Cameos and crossovers are among my favorite things in stories.

Kharjo seems like he can't get a hold of his drink here. Should've stayed with argonian ale and some skooma, there, pal. Maybe next time! This chapter was packed with humor. From quill not coming from geese and Khajiiti food to Darnarnd's lovable character to Aravi's comment about spiders and their unescessary number of legs. It is quite refreshing to see a chapter dedicated to simple humor and heart-warming chit-chat now and then. Good update, King Coin! Looking forward for more adventures with Aravi, Darnard and Kharjo! (Maybe in the next chapter Kharjo can squish some spiders!)