Full Version: Serene of Cyrodiil, chapter 7
Very good, I like the description and crisp dialogue in this update. Especially when concerning the meetings...its also interesting to see Trey still being woven into the story as well.
Good stuff. The death experience was a nice addition to the aftermath of the battle and the recovery period was interesting. Seeing Serene in her new role was also fascinating. I look forward to reading about any other changes she might make.
Last update until end of August! I'm going on vacation tomorrow!.
I think you need to have it in you to be a good leader. To put it another way, you have to be born to it. Some people develop that skill and do become excellent kings or Archmasters; others just never make it. As the time went by I discovered I had it, I just had it! It felt natural for me to make decisions, to judge wisely in matters of dispute. It’s mostly about common sense and the ability to listen and to really hear what they’re trying to tell you. I had good advisors in the Councilors, especially Athyn, who knew the Redoran Community so well. Also it’s important to recognize people who are under you in rank, to tell them they’re doing a great job, even if they sometimes don’t.
I was good at that! I treated my people as I treated my servants, with courtesy and kindness, but also with a steady hand. I didn’t take any guarshit, or lies. I won respect from my council and from my staff. And I started to really enjoy being Archmaster of Great House Redoran.
I knew the time would come when I had to encounter the leaders of the other houses. I must admit I feared that. They had all experience and knowledge, which I lacked. Instead I had a heart, compassion, but that might not be enough.
I did as I planned; I went on a trip to the cities on my list, starting with Seyda Neen. By doing this I unfortunately missed the appointment to make Trey of High Rock Redoran Hortator, but Athyn performed that ceremony with greatest finesse.
Seyda Neen hadn’t changed much since I had lived there at the time of my arrival in Vvardenfell, except for the small sign outside Arrille’s telling he was offering rooms for rent. I smiled, and went inside. Arrille didn’t recognize me; maybe because it was a long time since we last met, or maybe because I had made great efforts to disguise myself prior to this trip, completely on purpose.
I had cut off my waist-long hair to shoulder length and washed it several times with a mixture I made myself; crushed heather and willow anther flowers mixed with a bit of fire-salt and ash-yam. This made it darker than it was before, with a distinct nuance of red-violet. I also borrowed clothes from Varvur’s closet; a pair of baggy black trousers and a worn brown shirt. Atop it I wore a dark grey robe with a hood. I did not want anyone to be aware of who I was because then I wouldn’t be able to get the information I wanted. After all, there was a murder case to solve here.
“Afternoon, what can I do for you Sera?” Arrille didn’t look healthy; in fact he had gained so much weight he barely could move without getting short of breath. Maybe the obvious improvement of business wasn’t all that good for him.
“I’d like a room, please, for three nights,” I said and tried not to stare at him.
After freshening up I went to see Thavere. The beauty of the lighthouse stunned me; it had undergone a total restoration since I was here last. I could very well guess who paid for that!
Thavere on the other hand turned out to be just as Elone told me; she really looked terrible, her red hair was dirty and disheveled, her skin had an unhealthy grayish tone and her eyes were dull and sad.
Upon recognizing me she immediately fell to her knees.
“Oh, Sera, Archmaster!” she stuttered. I took her hand pulled her to her feet and looked right in the eyes;
“Thavere! For you I am Serene, just Serene, nothing else! And I’ve come to see that justice is done here.” I embraced her warmly, she was, after all my first real friend in Vvardenfell.
“By the way, I’m a little surprised you recognized me.”
“Those eyes of yours…Once you see them you never forget them. Serene, you can never disguise yourself to people who know you.” Thavere put her hands around my face and slowly shook her head.
“You were the most beautiful girl I’d ever seen, and now you’re even more beautiful. I’m so glad you’re here” Thavere couldn’t hold back her tears anymore and we fell into another’s embrace.
I don’t know for how long we stood there embracing each other, but I eventually asked Thavere if she could make us some tea.
“We need to talk, Thavere. I need to ask you some questions, and I must warn you they may tear it all up again, because I’m here to investigate the tragic death of your fiancée.”
She nodded. “I’m out of tea, but I do have some comberry-wine, I could warm some up for us, it’s a very nice drink”
It was, in fact it was quite delicious and I decided to remember that for the future.
“He had spent almost a week here with me, back about two or three months ago. We had such a good time; he said he was successful, that the Seyda-Neen-ers were good honest people, they paid their taxes in time, except for…” Thavere stopped; she took a deep breath, wiped away a couple of tears and continued;
“They had an argument people say, Processus and that rude fisherman who lives by the waterfront, Foryn Gilnith. I didn’t know; I was here, cooking supper!”
I took Thavere’s hand. This was painful to her, to try to remember what happened, but I had to know.
“The local tax-collector! He’s not very liked here, he’s going to end up beheaded one of these days.”
Eldafire’s words on the very day I arrived in Seyda Neen. That prophecy had in fact come true. Even if the poor man did not get beheaded, he certainly was not amongst the living anymore.
I decided it was time for me take a walk around town to see what could be found out. Thavere asked me to come back in the evening.
“I’ll make you dinner, my dear. You’re far too skinny,” she smiled at me.
I headed first to the Census and Excise office. Socucius Ergalla did in fact not recognize me at first, but when he did, he was exalted with joy to see me again, so I spent about half an hour talking to him. He was very interested in what I had been up to during the years and oddly enough he hadn’t heard I’d become Redoran Archmaster. I did not tell him; I didn’t like the way people changed behaviour when they found out.
He was worried about the tax collector’s death; a murder in little Seyda Neen was not a thing that happened every day.
“Yes, yes he was murdered all right, his throat was cut from side to side, there’s no doubt about it,” he answered my question about how the man actually died.
I also asked carefully how his relations were with the citizens, well except for Thavere of course. It turned out Processus Vitellius wouldn’t win any prize in a popularity competition, but in general people endured him, knowing his job was necessary, yet not pleasant. When I asked about the argument he might have had with the fisherman Gilnith, Ergalla just shook his head;
“Oh I don’t know anything about that, I’m afraid.”
Of course, nobody would tell Ergalla about it if it were true. I realized I would probably have to question someone else. My mind slipped to Eldafire, or perhaps Fargoth, that was, if I could find them and if they would wish to speak to me!
Eldafire was rather reserved as I approached her outside her house and I didn’t blame her, the Altmers didn’t usually speak to a complete stranger, especially not if that stranger is an outlander. I decided to reveal myself to her.
She looked both surprised and happy when I told her I was the same girl who had tea with her that stormy evening quite some years ago.
“But? Aye, ye look good, lassie, but…but, ain’t ye the…Archm….” I put my hand over her mouth, giving her a sign to shut up.
“Yes! But please, don’t say anything. Could we go inside and talk?” I whispered, as I grabbed her hand trying to prevent her from kneeling in front of me.
“No! Please don’t,” I hissed.
Inside the house Eldafire started fussing around trying to find something to offer me. I had to stop her; it was a talk with her I wanted, not food or drink. Finally she got hold of a bottle of comberry wine and we could be seated. I never say no to comberry wine, it’s delicious and it also loosen one’s tongue…
“Yes, they ‘ad an argument, Foryn and the fine tax collector. That fishin’ man is bad news, e’s so rude and he ‘ave such a bad temper, I saw them go inside ‘is old shack, oh aye I did.”
“Did you see Processus leave Foryn’s home? And did you hear anything strange? Some noise or anything?”
Eldafire shook her head. Apparently she had just seen the two men arguing, and then going inside Gilnith’s shack. After that…nothing.
I sighed. It was time to narrow the search, it was time to confront Foryn Gilnith, and I did not at all look forward to doing that.
I think you need to have it in you to be a good leader. To put it another way, you have to be born to it. Some people develop that skill and do become excellent kings or Archmasters; others just never make it. As the time went by I discovered I had it, I just had it! It felt natural for me to make decisions, to judge wisely in matters of dispute. It’s mostly about common sense and the ability to listen and to really hear what they’re trying to tell you. I had good advisors in the Councilors, especially Athyn, who knew the Redoran Community so well. Also it’s important to recognize people who are under you in rank, to tell them they’re doing a great job, even if they sometimes don’t.
I was good at that! I treated my people as I treated my servants, with courtesy and kindness, but also with a steady hand. I didn’t take any guarshit, or lies. I won respect from my council and from my staff. And I started to really enjoy being Archmaster of Great House Redoran.
I knew the time would come when I had to encounter the leaders of the other houses. I must admit I feared that. They had all experience and knowledge, which I lacked. Instead I had a heart, compassion, but that might not be enough.
I did as I planned; I went on a trip to the cities on my list, starting with Seyda Neen. By doing this I unfortunately missed the appointment to make Trey of High Rock Redoran Hortator, but Athyn performed that ceremony with greatest finesse.
Seyda Neen hadn’t changed much since I had lived there at the time of my arrival in Vvardenfell, except for the small sign outside Arrille’s telling he was offering rooms for rent. I smiled, and went inside. Arrille didn’t recognize me; maybe because it was a long time since we last met, or maybe because I had made great efforts to disguise myself prior to this trip, completely on purpose.
I had cut off my waist-long hair to shoulder length and washed it several times with a mixture I made myself; crushed heather and willow anther flowers mixed with a bit of fire-salt and ash-yam. This made it darker than it was before, with a distinct nuance of red-violet. I also borrowed clothes from Varvur’s closet; a pair of baggy black trousers and a worn brown shirt. Atop it I wore a dark grey robe with a hood. I did not want anyone to be aware of who I was because then I wouldn’t be able to get the information I wanted. After all, there was a murder case to solve here.
“Afternoon, what can I do for you Sera?” Arrille didn’t look healthy; in fact he had gained so much weight he barely could move without getting short of breath. Maybe the obvious improvement of business wasn’t all that good for him.
“I’d like a room, please, for three nights,” I said and tried not to stare at him.
After freshening up I went to see Thavere. The beauty of the lighthouse stunned me; it had undergone a total restoration since I was here last. I could very well guess who paid for that!
Thavere on the other hand turned out to be just as Elone told me; she really looked terrible, her red hair was dirty and disheveled, her skin had an unhealthy grayish tone and her eyes were dull and sad.
Upon recognizing me she immediately fell to her knees.
“Oh, Sera, Archmaster!” she stuttered. I took her hand pulled her to her feet and looked right in the eyes;
“Thavere! For you I am Serene, just Serene, nothing else! And I’ve come to see that justice is done here.” I embraced her warmly, she was, after all my first real friend in Vvardenfell.
“By the way, I’m a little surprised you recognized me.”
“Those eyes of yours…Once you see them you never forget them. Serene, you can never disguise yourself to people who know you.” Thavere put her hands around my face and slowly shook her head.
“You were the most beautiful girl I’d ever seen, and now you’re even more beautiful. I’m so glad you’re here” Thavere couldn’t hold back her tears anymore and we fell into another’s embrace.
I don’t know for how long we stood there embracing each other, but I eventually asked Thavere if she could make us some tea.
“We need to talk, Thavere. I need to ask you some questions, and I must warn you they may tear it all up again, because I’m here to investigate the tragic death of your fiancée.”
She nodded. “I’m out of tea, but I do have some comberry-wine, I could warm some up for us, it’s a very nice drink”
It was, in fact it was quite delicious and I decided to remember that for the future.
“He had spent almost a week here with me, back about two or three months ago. We had such a good time; he said he was successful, that the Seyda-Neen-ers were good honest people, they paid their taxes in time, except for…” Thavere stopped; she took a deep breath, wiped away a couple of tears and continued;
“They had an argument people say, Processus and that rude fisherman who lives by the waterfront, Foryn Gilnith. I didn’t know; I was here, cooking supper!”
I took Thavere’s hand. This was painful to her, to try to remember what happened, but I had to know.
“The local tax-collector! He’s not very liked here, he’s going to end up beheaded one of these days.”
Eldafire’s words on the very day I arrived in Seyda Neen. That prophecy had in fact come true. Even if the poor man did not get beheaded, he certainly was not amongst the living anymore.
I decided it was time for me take a walk around town to see what could be found out. Thavere asked me to come back in the evening.
“I’ll make you dinner, my dear. You’re far too skinny,” she smiled at me.
I headed first to the Census and Excise office. Socucius Ergalla did in fact not recognize me at first, but when he did, he was exalted with joy to see me again, so I spent about half an hour talking to him. He was very interested in what I had been up to during the years and oddly enough he hadn’t heard I’d become Redoran Archmaster. I did not tell him; I didn’t like the way people changed behaviour when they found out.
He was worried about the tax collector’s death; a murder in little Seyda Neen was not a thing that happened every day.
“Yes, yes he was murdered all right, his throat was cut from side to side, there’s no doubt about it,” he answered my question about how the man actually died.
I also asked carefully how his relations were with the citizens, well except for Thavere of course. It turned out Processus Vitellius wouldn’t win any prize in a popularity competition, but in general people endured him, knowing his job was necessary, yet not pleasant. When I asked about the argument he might have had with the fisherman Gilnith, Ergalla just shook his head;
“Oh I don’t know anything about that, I’m afraid.”
Of course, nobody would tell Ergalla about it if it were true. I realized I would probably have to question someone else. My mind slipped to Eldafire, or perhaps Fargoth, that was, if I could find them and if they would wish to speak to me!
Eldafire was rather reserved as I approached her outside her house and I didn’t blame her, the Altmers didn’t usually speak to a complete stranger, especially not if that stranger is an outlander. I decided to reveal myself to her.
She looked both surprised and happy when I told her I was the same girl who had tea with her that stormy evening quite some years ago.
“But? Aye, ye look good, lassie, but…but, ain’t ye the…Archm….” I put my hand over her mouth, giving her a sign to shut up.
“Yes! But please, don’t say anything. Could we go inside and talk?” I whispered, as I grabbed her hand trying to prevent her from kneeling in front of me.
“No! Please don’t,” I hissed.
Inside the house Eldafire started fussing around trying to find something to offer me. I had to stop her; it was a talk with her I wanted, not food or drink. Finally she got hold of a bottle of comberry wine and we could be seated. I never say no to comberry wine, it’s delicious and it also loosen one’s tongue…
“Yes, they ‘ad an argument, Foryn and the fine tax collector. That fishin’ man is bad news, e’s so rude and he ‘ave such a bad temper, I saw them go inside ‘is old shack, oh aye I did.”
“Did you see Processus leave Foryn’s home? And did you hear anything strange? Some noise or anything?”
Eldafire shook her head. Apparently she had just seen the two men arguing, and then going inside Gilnith’s shack. After that…nothing.
I sighed. It was time to narrow the search, it was time to confront Foryn Gilnith, and I did not at all look forward to doing that.
Hmm. Renie taking on the task of Death of a taxman, a very nice gesture of the new Archmistress. I knew she'd grow into the role, the woman is like water! she takes the shape of any dress, I mean, situation she is in.
Her compassion for others is turning out to be her strongest qualification for her new position. I'm curious to see how she deals with Foryn, since he has such a bad temper and is obviously prone to violence, having killed Processus over something as unavoidable as taxes. Regardless, I'm sure she'll make the best choice she can.
Any kinds of negotiations on an empty stomach are bound to fail, so I decided to have something to eat before paying Foryn Gilnith a visit. At Arrille’s on the upper level, Elone still had her establishment, though she wasn’t there at the moment. But there was a young girl standing behind the counter, and her Dunmerii features appeared Ashland-ish to me.
“Greetings, Sera, what can I do for you?” She asked very politely. I smiled at her, asking her for some bread and tea. There weren’t any customers at the moment so I started talking with her. She told me that Elone was in Ald’ruhn, visiting her sister, and had been there for the last four weeks. In the meantime she looked after the bar.
“Oh, I haven’t introduced myself; my name is Kausha, Kausha Mantashpi.” The girl stretched out her hand to me with a hearty smile.
“Mantashpi? That sounds almost like an Ashlander-name.” I responded. The girl went pale and bowed her head.
“Ehh…yes, in fact…I…I am …Originally,” the girl whispered, apparently feeling awkward.
“But that’s wonderful!” I burst out, telling her I had spent over a year with the Ahemmusa Tribe. Then she stared at me with utmost astonishment; her jaw dropped and she went pale and red at the same time, and then kneeled before me, stuttering;
“Oh Sera! Oh, the Legend, what an honor! I never thought I’d actually meet you…”
I took her hand, raising her to her feet. I had not yet, and I doubted I ever would appreciate the habit of people kneeling in front of me. And the fact this young girl called me a Legend did puzzle me.
“Kausha, please, I’m no legend, I’m just Serene, and I’m darned hungry by now,” I pleaded.
“You are Serene, the Outlander who Azura brought to the Ahemmusa, to save them. Those are the words amongst the Wise Women of all the Ashlander Tribes in Vvardenfell.”
I didn’t know what to say; in my opinion I had not done that much to actually save the Ahemmusa, that was Trey’s doing! I merely showed the native Tribe that Outlanders were not as bad as they originally thought.
Eventually I got the admiring girl to give me something to eat, and along with that she told me her somewhat sad story about how a young Ashlander girl had ended up as a barmaid in Seyda Neen. I told her to look me up in Ald’ruhn if she ever needed a friend, or ended up in a situation she couldn’t handle.
Foryn Gilnith’s shack was really in great need of restoration. It looked as if it would fall apart in the next storm. I felt somewhat sorry for the man, but suppressed that feeling immediately; he did kill a man after all, or so it seemed.
I knocked on the door. Nothing happened. I knocked again, harder this time.
“Foryn Gilnith! Are you there? I want to talk to you”
Then the door flew open with a bang and a skinny Dunmer rushed at me with a big nasty dagger in his hand, ready for a downward thrust that would have most certainly beheaded me if I hadn’t managed to grab his arm.
“'M feinedd balf fferrir” I hissed, and watched him grow pale as my grip turned his arm to a frozen piece of meat. Just like in Dagon Fel at the Inn, when that Nord tried to rob me.
Foryn yelled in pain, but I held on to him till the dagger fell from his frozen hand and I could kick it aside.
“Easy now,” I pleaded. “I’ve come to talk to you, not make threats.”
“Bah! You’re an Imperial, and you’re just a scum like any other of your kind,” Foryn spat out, saliva flying from his mouth. “You just want me rotting behind bars in some damp old prison.”
“Not unless you give me a reason,” I retorted, letting go of his arm.
The process where his arm regained its normal temperature caused him a lot of pain; I could see that, but he didn’t complain, he just stared at me with anger and fear in his narrow red eyes. He sank down on a ragged chair, still staring at me.
“Start talking then,” he muttered.
I sighed. I had no experience of interrogating people, no experience of solving murder cases, and I had absolutely no idea how to do this. Should I start asking him some not so relevant questions first, and then narrow it down to the point or should I just blurt it out and get it over with?
I decided to get to the point; stupid or not, I didn’t want to drag this any longer.
“Ok, Foryn, I wonder if you know something about the unfortunate fate of the tax collector Processus Vitellius? I’ve heard that you might be the last one to have seen him?”
That was about the stupidest thing I could have said. Foryn literally exploded in front of me. He didn’t touch me; maybe he was a bit frightened by my magical skills, but he threw a mug right in my face. It hit me on my eyebrow, which caused blood to gush down my face; I could hardly see a thing. Before I had a chance to get away he continued throwing items at me- a plate that barely missed me, a jar that hit me on my shoulder. I flung myself over the table to try to get hold of him but he jumped backwards, grabbed a lamp, which he threw in a perfect arc right at the opposite wall. The lamp broke and burning liquid flowed over the sacks and fishing nets that were lying in a heap on the floor. The stuff caught fire immediately, and thick gray smoke filled the shack.
“He asked for it, the darn scum!” Foryn yelled, “He threatened to go to my mother and force her to give him the money! My mother is sick; she has no money, and I promise I’ll kill anyone who threatens my mother!!” Foam was forming around his mouth, the smoke made us both shed tears, and I realized we had to get out of the shack immediately, or we would be barbecued.
I managed to get to my feet again, when something came flying through the air and landed upon me. Too late I realized what it was; a fishing net! I was quite immobilized and engulfed with raging fire. I had no idea where Foryn was…
Is this how it’s going to end? Will I die here?
“Use your head, silly woman! Think, for Nirn’s sake! “
I heard his voice in my head, as clear as if he had been there, and then I knew what to do…
“Greetings, Sera, what can I do for you?” She asked very politely. I smiled at her, asking her for some bread and tea. There weren’t any customers at the moment so I started talking with her. She told me that Elone was in Ald’ruhn, visiting her sister, and had been there for the last four weeks. In the meantime she looked after the bar.
“Oh, I haven’t introduced myself; my name is Kausha, Kausha Mantashpi.” The girl stretched out her hand to me with a hearty smile.
“Mantashpi? That sounds almost like an Ashlander-name.” I responded. The girl went pale and bowed her head.
“Ehh…yes, in fact…I…I am …Originally,” the girl whispered, apparently feeling awkward.
“But that’s wonderful!” I burst out, telling her I had spent over a year with the Ahemmusa Tribe. Then she stared at me with utmost astonishment; her jaw dropped and she went pale and red at the same time, and then kneeled before me, stuttering;
“Oh Sera! Oh, the Legend, what an honor! I never thought I’d actually meet you…”
I took her hand, raising her to her feet. I had not yet, and I doubted I ever would appreciate the habit of people kneeling in front of me. And the fact this young girl called me a Legend did puzzle me.
“Kausha, please, I’m no legend, I’m just Serene, and I’m darned hungry by now,” I pleaded.
“You are Serene, the Outlander who Azura brought to the Ahemmusa, to save them. Those are the words amongst the Wise Women of all the Ashlander Tribes in Vvardenfell.”
I didn’t know what to say; in my opinion I had not done that much to actually save the Ahemmusa, that was Trey’s doing! I merely showed the native Tribe that Outlanders were not as bad as they originally thought.
Eventually I got the admiring girl to give me something to eat, and along with that she told me her somewhat sad story about how a young Ashlander girl had ended up as a barmaid in Seyda Neen. I told her to look me up in Ald’ruhn if she ever needed a friend, or ended up in a situation she couldn’t handle.
Foryn Gilnith’s shack was really in great need of restoration. It looked as if it would fall apart in the next storm. I felt somewhat sorry for the man, but suppressed that feeling immediately; he did kill a man after all, or so it seemed.
I knocked on the door. Nothing happened. I knocked again, harder this time.
“Foryn Gilnith! Are you there? I want to talk to you”
Then the door flew open with a bang and a skinny Dunmer rushed at me with a big nasty dagger in his hand, ready for a downward thrust that would have most certainly beheaded me if I hadn’t managed to grab his arm.
“'M feinedd balf fferrir” I hissed, and watched him grow pale as my grip turned his arm to a frozen piece of meat. Just like in Dagon Fel at the Inn, when that Nord tried to rob me.
Foryn yelled in pain, but I held on to him till the dagger fell from his frozen hand and I could kick it aside.
“Easy now,” I pleaded. “I’ve come to talk to you, not make threats.”
“Bah! You’re an Imperial, and you’re just a scum like any other of your kind,” Foryn spat out, saliva flying from his mouth. “You just want me rotting behind bars in some damp old prison.”
“Not unless you give me a reason,” I retorted, letting go of his arm.
The process where his arm regained its normal temperature caused him a lot of pain; I could see that, but he didn’t complain, he just stared at me with anger and fear in his narrow red eyes. He sank down on a ragged chair, still staring at me.
“Start talking then,” he muttered.
I sighed. I had no experience of interrogating people, no experience of solving murder cases, and I had absolutely no idea how to do this. Should I start asking him some not so relevant questions first, and then narrow it down to the point or should I just blurt it out and get it over with?
I decided to get to the point; stupid or not, I didn’t want to drag this any longer.
“Ok, Foryn, I wonder if you know something about the unfortunate fate of the tax collector Processus Vitellius? I’ve heard that you might be the last one to have seen him?”
That was about the stupidest thing I could have said. Foryn literally exploded in front of me. He didn’t touch me; maybe he was a bit frightened by my magical skills, but he threw a mug right in my face. It hit me on my eyebrow, which caused blood to gush down my face; I could hardly see a thing. Before I had a chance to get away he continued throwing items at me- a plate that barely missed me, a jar that hit me on my shoulder. I flung myself over the table to try to get hold of him but he jumped backwards, grabbed a lamp, which he threw in a perfect arc right at the opposite wall. The lamp broke and burning liquid flowed over the sacks and fishing nets that were lying in a heap on the floor. The stuff caught fire immediately, and thick gray smoke filled the shack.
“He asked for it, the darn scum!” Foryn yelled, “He threatened to go to my mother and force her to give him the money! My mother is sick; she has no money, and I promise I’ll kill anyone who threatens my mother!!” Foam was forming around his mouth, the smoke made us both shed tears, and I realized we had to get out of the shack immediately, or we would be barbecued.
I managed to get to my feet again, when something came flying through the air and landed upon me. Too late I realized what it was; a fishing net! I was quite immobilized and engulfed with raging fire. I had no idea where Foryn was…
Is this how it’s going to end? Will I die here?
“Use your head, silly woman! Think, for Nirn’s sake! “
I heard his voice in my head, as clear as if he had been there, and then I knew what to do…
Ver nice! SGM. Yeah that Foryn can be a challenge at any level huh?
And yet another cliff-ra... um cliff-hanger stopping place. My penance for introducing that staple of serial novels seems to go on forever....
This chapter has yet again showcased your strengths as a writer- the ability to add dimension and life to all of the characters, and to make even the "supporting cast" breathe and live in our imaginations. And, though you seem to doubt your own ability, you have also written a tense, compact action sequence that works quite well.
This chapter has yet again showcased your strengths as a writer- the ability to add dimension and life to all of the characters, and to make even the "supporting cast" breathe and live in our imaginations. And, though you seem to doubt your own ability, you have also written a tense, compact action sequence that works quite well.
And yet another cliffracer? haha 
Superb; a cliffhanger. Just what I always wanted.
/sarcasm
On a less sarcastic note, it seems that Serene could use a crash course in diplomacy and being aware of her surroundings, one that perhaps involves fewer things crashing into her head. The voice in her head was, perhaps, the best line of the entire installment. Extra points for that priceless gem.
/sarcasm
On a less sarcastic note, it seems that Serene could use a crash course in diplomacy and being aware of her surroundings, one that perhaps involves fewer things crashing into her head. The voice in her head was, perhaps, the best line of the entire installment. Extra points for that priceless gem.
My dera loyal readers!
I do owe you an apology for not having updated this story for quite some time. No there's really no excuse save the fact that my mind has been filled with other things lately, and the words have just not come to me.
Now have patience with me, I will continue, it's just a kind of "mountain" I have to claim, literally speaking, then there'll be flow again!
See you soon here, if you still are interested in the faith of Serene!
I do owe you an apology for not having updated this story for quite some time. No there's really no excuse save the fact that my mind has been filled with other things lately, and the words have just not come to me.
Now have patience with me, I will continue, it's just a kind of "mountain" I have to claim, literally speaking, then there'll be flow again!
See you soon here, if you still are interested in the faith of Serene!
I will always look forward to new installments, even if they are months apart. I'm certain that many of us understand how busy real life can get, and that certainly takes priority over satisfying update-starved fans 
Seconded. I am more than willing to wait patiently for the next installment, knowing that I will be rewarded with an insightful, compelling story. Good writing is like good wine- it improves with time.
I finally got round to reading this. Yays!
Ahem.
Excellent work here Minque, some of the best I've seen on the forum, no less! Serene is an exceptionally well made character, as is just about every other one you include, and the story so far has been excellent.
But Serene seems to cry all the time! I've yet to see a character as tearful as her, and by the end I couldn't help but think 'Oh god, here she goes again.' It's nothing major but it does seem melodramatic and really gets on my nerves.
Ahem.
Excellent work here Minque, some of the best I've seen on the forum, no less! Serene is an exceptionally well made character, as is just about every other one you include, and the story so far has been excellent.
But Serene seems to cry all the time! I've yet to see a character as tearful as her, and by the end I couldn't help but think 'Oh god, here she goes again.' It's nothing major but it does seem melodramatic and really gets on my nerves.
QUOTE(The Bean @ Dec 11 2008, 11:50 PM) 
I finally got round to reading this. Yays!
Ahem.
Excellent work here Minque, some of the best I've seen on the forum, no less! Serene is an exceptionally well made character, as is just about every other one you include, and the story so far has been excellent.
But Serene seems to cry all the time! I've yet to see a character as tearful as her, and by the end I couldn't help but think 'Oh god, here she goes again.' It's nothing major but it does seem melodramatic and really gets on my nerves.
Hah..yeah, you see I'm aware of that....so I'm currently rewriting the whole thing, so just try to omit those passages and pretend she's not crying, m'kay?
Then again....she's a freakin' woman, and guys are hurting her all the time.....so really, are you surprised?
You better update at TESFU as well! Or....or.......or else!
QUOTE(redsrock @ Dec 12 2008, 12:38 AM)
You better update at TESFU as well! Or....or.......or else!
Okay my friend...I will post the whole thing at TESFU....I promise, and as a bonus you guys will get the revamped version!
Good. Because we need good writing over there. Not many people write anymore, or at least not how it used to be prior to D-Day.
QUOTE(minque @ Dec 7 2008, 09:09 PM)
My dera loyal readers!
I do owe you an apology for not having updated this story for quite some time. No there's really no excuse save the fact that my mind has been filled with other things lately, and the words have just not come to me.
Now have patience with me, I will continue, it's just a kind of "mountain" I have to claim, literally speaking, then there'll be flow again!
See you soon here, if you still are interested in the faith of Serene!
Oh, don't worry. Your readers will still be here, waiting patiently (ish).
Just take your time and I look forward to seeing her future adventures
At last! I'm apologizing for my very long delay, there's really no good explanation apart from that weird thing you may call RL!!
Anyway here's an update for you...Enjoy!
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*
Time was crucial here; the shack was almost filled with smoke, and the wall beside the door was totally on fire; even the door was engulfed in raging flames. From the corner of my eye I saw Foryn heading for the window. If he managed to get it opened the fire would get even more furious, and it would be fatal.
I just had to stop him!
Now fishing nets are flammable, so I yelled “Igneus Manus” and the fire that appeared in my palms quickly burnt through the net and my hands were free. Unfortunately robes are also flammable so I almost succeeded in setting myself on fire as well.
Anyway I literally jumped at Foryn and landed heavily on his back, immediately clutching my arms around his waist. We fell to the floor, both of us. Down there the smoke wasn’t that thick, so I could actually see him. His face distorted from anger and fear, he tried to escape from me, but I did not let go of him.
“Cooperate now, Foryn,” I yelled. “We have to get out, NOW!”
I didn’t wait for him to agree or even reply, I managed to drag us both on our feet and then I headed for the door.
“NOOOO!” He bellowed. “Crazy woman, you’ll kill us both”
Foryn Gilnith and I crashed through the burning door, tightly clinging to each other, continuing right into the Inner Sea. The cold water put out the fire on our clothes and certainly calmed him down. The fire had attracted the Guards of Seyda Neen, so there were a lot of hands to help us out of the water.
“Ahh, Sera, let me take care of this scum.” One of the Guards grabbed Foryn by his arm. The poor Dunmer was shivering with cold and did not make any resistance.
“Oh no you won’t,” I snapped. “He’s mine, and he’s no scum, just a Fisherman who lost his home and income. I need to talk to him so if you please take us to Arrille’s so we can get some dry clothing.”
I understood there could be some difficulties explaining to the guards that I was the Archmaster of House Redoran, apart from my urge to travel here incognito, which per se was a success, I really looked like a mess; clothes burnt to rags, my hair partly burnt off and I was soaking wet from the encounter with the Inner Sea. So I didn’t actually want to commence a discussion with them, I just wanted Foryn and me to get somewhere we could talk.
Kausha raised her eyebrows as we entered Arrille’s, but the girl was clever enough not to ask any questions; she just showed us to an empty room, and put various clothes on the bed.
Foryn smirked at me, as I ripped off my rags and eventually ended up naked in front of him. I didn’t care; I just slipped into a shirt, far too big, and a pair of worn trousers. A thick green robe concluded my dressing.
“Come on, Foryn, get yourself into some dry clothing, or else you’ll catch a cold,” I said to the shivering Dunmer. He stared at me with a grumpy look on his face.
“Turn around, woman! Even if you’re shameless enough to undress in front of me, I’m not keen on letting you have a peek at me!” Foryn spat. I smiled and placed myself facing the window, overlooking the sun setting in the sea. I felt remorse; I had been too harsh confronting Foryn Gilnith, and as a result, I had deprived him of his home, his belongings and probably his ability to have a life.
A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts; it was Kausha, bringing two mugs with hot comberry wine.
“To warm you up, Sera; you both look as though you need it.”
I thanked the young Ashlander and then closed the door firmly after her.
“So, Foryn, I suggest we do as follows: First we drink this hot wine; it will make us feel better, then we head over to the Census-office and speak with Socucius Ergalla. He’s really a fair man and I’m sure we can sort this out for the best.” I sounded more confident than I was; for all I knew Foryn could just attack me and try to kill me on the spot. I wasn’t sure I would blame him for it.
“Ergalla? You must be kidding me!” Foryn yelled. “The man hates the sight of me; he will put me into prison immediately. No way I’m going near him!”
“No he won’t,” I replied. “I have more power than you think; he will listen to me when I tell him what to do.”
Foryn looked suspiciously at me, and a smirk on his face revealed he did not believe a word I was saying.
I must admit I had a hard job convincing Socucius Ergalla I was the Archmaster of Redoran, but I couldn’t blame him, considering the way I looked. Finally he believed me and listened to me. He was pleased the murder was solved at last, but he insisted that Foryn should have proper punishment for his deed. He was very clear on that and told me that no Archmaster of whatever Great House could stop the justice of the Empire.
“I told you, damn woman,” Foryn Gilnith spat, looking at me with murder in his eyes. He was trembling with rage and fear and it made me feel more and more sorry for him.
I by then had had about enough of stubborn men; I took out my Amulet of the Knight, which showed I had the rank of Knight Protector in the Legion. This made Socucius Ergalla silent. He bowed and reassured me that my wishes were his orders. I smiled…
“First, the tax-money will be returned to the Census and Excise Office; I will see to that as soon I’m back in Ald’ruhn. Second, Foryn here shall have a punishment, but not a useless one like going to jail, which would only mean he will be a cost for the good people of Seyda Neen. No, I suggest that he will perform some good labor to pay off his guilt….” I stopped to let my speech sink in.
Foryn looked at me with disbelief, and then just shook his head.
Socucius Ergalla nodded; he understood what I meant and it did please him in a way, I could tell from the expression in his face. The important thing now was that he came up with a suggestion of what kind of work Foryn should do. I waited with a faint smile on my face.
“Ahhh, how about working for Thavere Vedrano, in the Lighthouse? She could certainly do with some help nowadays,” Socucius Ergalla smiled, somewhat evilly, actually.
Foryn went pale, then jumped to his feet, gasping for breath.
“Are you insane? That woman was almost engaged to that Tax-man! She would never have his murderer work for her!!! No way I’ll do that; I’d rather go to jail, but then again…” He stopped, covering his face with his hands, shoulders shivering.
“Foryn? “ I put my hand on his shoulder, waiting for him to continue. I suspected there was more to come; he had said something about his mother back in the burning shack….
“My mother…she lives outside of town, in a small farmhouse growing saltrice and stuff,” Foryn mumbled, still covering his face. Then suddenly he burst out;
“She’s old and sick! I give her all money I can spare from the fishing. She needs help, and if I don’t support her, she’ll just die! That’s why I took that money…to get her medicine!”
“Ok, I’ll go and see her,” I said. “She’ll be ok, I promise.”
Foryn was a beaten man; he needed no more punishment, so I took him by the arm, said goodbye to Socucius Ergalla and followed him to the Seyda Neen Lighthouse. I figured I had to explain some things to Thavere, or she would most certainly not just accept the murderer of her former fiancée showing up on her doorstep.
First, however, I had to see to that Foryn looked decent, so I turned to a legionnaire I used to know, Vodunicus Nuccius, who still hadn’t managed to get home to Cyrodiil. I asked him if he possibly could guard Foryn for me while I went to talk to Thavere, and also see to it that the Dunmer got some more clothes…
Thavere wasn’t overwhelmingly happy about having Foryn Gilnith working for her at first, but after a great deal of persuasion from my side she agreed to the arrangement, providing there would be a guard present for security’s sake.
Vodunicus Nuccius agreed to take care of that; he knew Thavere and was happy to be able to be of service, if for no other reason having something useful to do.
For my sake I decided my task in Seyda Neen was finished and took the strider to Balmora to see Milie Hastien about my terribly destroyed hair before returning to Ald’ruhn and Athyn.
Milie succeeded in making me at least look decent again; of course my hair had to be cut pretty short and then colored with heather to look ok, but I was feeling confident when I finally met with my family again, hoping for some peaceful time to come.
That, as it turned out wasn’t going to happen!
Anyway here's an update for you...Enjoy!
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*
Time was crucial here; the shack was almost filled with smoke, and the wall beside the door was totally on fire; even the door was engulfed in raging flames. From the corner of my eye I saw Foryn heading for the window. If he managed to get it opened the fire would get even more furious, and it would be fatal.
I just had to stop him!
Now fishing nets are flammable, so I yelled “Igneus Manus” and the fire that appeared in my palms quickly burnt through the net and my hands were free. Unfortunately robes are also flammable so I almost succeeded in setting myself on fire as well.
Anyway I literally jumped at Foryn and landed heavily on his back, immediately clutching my arms around his waist. We fell to the floor, both of us. Down there the smoke wasn’t that thick, so I could actually see him. His face distorted from anger and fear, he tried to escape from me, but I did not let go of him.
“Cooperate now, Foryn,” I yelled. “We have to get out, NOW!”
I didn’t wait for him to agree or even reply, I managed to drag us both on our feet and then I headed for the door.
“NOOOO!” He bellowed. “Crazy woman, you’ll kill us both”
Foryn Gilnith and I crashed through the burning door, tightly clinging to each other, continuing right into the Inner Sea. The cold water put out the fire on our clothes and certainly calmed him down. The fire had attracted the Guards of Seyda Neen, so there were a lot of hands to help us out of the water.
“Ahh, Sera, let me take care of this scum.” One of the Guards grabbed Foryn by his arm. The poor Dunmer was shivering with cold and did not make any resistance.
“Oh no you won’t,” I snapped. “He’s mine, and he’s no scum, just a Fisherman who lost his home and income. I need to talk to him so if you please take us to Arrille’s so we can get some dry clothing.”
I understood there could be some difficulties explaining to the guards that I was the Archmaster of House Redoran, apart from my urge to travel here incognito, which per se was a success, I really looked like a mess; clothes burnt to rags, my hair partly burnt off and I was soaking wet from the encounter with the Inner Sea. So I didn’t actually want to commence a discussion with them, I just wanted Foryn and me to get somewhere we could talk.
Kausha raised her eyebrows as we entered Arrille’s, but the girl was clever enough not to ask any questions; she just showed us to an empty room, and put various clothes on the bed.
Foryn smirked at me, as I ripped off my rags and eventually ended up naked in front of him. I didn’t care; I just slipped into a shirt, far too big, and a pair of worn trousers. A thick green robe concluded my dressing.
“Come on, Foryn, get yourself into some dry clothing, or else you’ll catch a cold,” I said to the shivering Dunmer. He stared at me with a grumpy look on his face.
“Turn around, woman! Even if you’re shameless enough to undress in front of me, I’m not keen on letting you have a peek at me!” Foryn spat. I smiled and placed myself facing the window, overlooking the sun setting in the sea. I felt remorse; I had been too harsh confronting Foryn Gilnith, and as a result, I had deprived him of his home, his belongings and probably his ability to have a life.
A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts; it was Kausha, bringing two mugs with hot comberry wine.
“To warm you up, Sera; you both look as though you need it.”
I thanked the young Ashlander and then closed the door firmly after her.
“So, Foryn, I suggest we do as follows: First we drink this hot wine; it will make us feel better, then we head over to the Census-office and speak with Socucius Ergalla. He’s really a fair man and I’m sure we can sort this out for the best.” I sounded more confident than I was; for all I knew Foryn could just attack me and try to kill me on the spot. I wasn’t sure I would blame him for it.
“Ergalla? You must be kidding me!” Foryn yelled. “The man hates the sight of me; he will put me into prison immediately. No way I’m going near him!”
“No he won’t,” I replied. “I have more power than you think; he will listen to me when I tell him what to do.”
Foryn looked suspiciously at me, and a smirk on his face revealed he did not believe a word I was saying.
I must admit I had a hard job convincing Socucius Ergalla I was the Archmaster of Redoran, but I couldn’t blame him, considering the way I looked. Finally he believed me and listened to me. He was pleased the murder was solved at last, but he insisted that Foryn should have proper punishment for his deed. He was very clear on that and told me that no Archmaster of whatever Great House could stop the justice of the Empire.
“I told you, damn woman,” Foryn Gilnith spat, looking at me with murder in his eyes. He was trembling with rage and fear and it made me feel more and more sorry for him.
I by then had had about enough of stubborn men; I took out my Amulet of the Knight, which showed I had the rank of Knight Protector in the Legion. This made Socucius Ergalla silent. He bowed and reassured me that my wishes were his orders. I smiled…
“First, the tax-money will be returned to the Census and Excise Office; I will see to that as soon I’m back in Ald’ruhn. Second, Foryn here shall have a punishment, but not a useless one like going to jail, which would only mean he will be a cost for the good people of Seyda Neen. No, I suggest that he will perform some good labor to pay off his guilt….” I stopped to let my speech sink in.
Foryn looked at me with disbelief, and then just shook his head.
Socucius Ergalla nodded; he understood what I meant and it did please him in a way, I could tell from the expression in his face. The important thing now was that he came up with a suggestion of what kind of work Foryn should do. I waited with a faint smile on my face.
“Ahhh, how about working for Thavere Vedrano, in the Lighthouse? She could certainly do with some help nowadays,” Socucius Ergalla smiled, somewhat evilly, actually.
Foryn went pale, then jumped to his feet, gasping for breath.
“Are you insane? That woman was almost engaged to that Tax-man! She would never have his murderer work for her!!! No way I’ll do that; I’d rather go to jail, but then again…” He stopped, covering his face with his hands, shoulders shivering.
“Foryn? “ I put my hand on his shoulder, waiting for him to continue. I suspected there was more to come; he had said something about his mother back in the burning shack….
“My mother…she lives outside of town, in a small farmhouse growing saltrice and stuff,” Foryn mumbled, still covering his face. Then suddenly he burst out;
“She’s old and sick! I give her all money I can spare from the fishing. She needs help, and if I don’t support her, she’ll just die! That’s why I took that money…to get her medicine!”
“Ok, I’ll go and see her,” I said. “She’ll be ok, I promise.”
Foryn was a beaten man; he needed no more punishment, so I took him by the arm, said goodbye to Socucius Ergalla and followed him to the Seyda Neen Lighthouse. I figured I had to explain some things to Thavere, or she would most certainly not just accept the murderer of her former fiancée showing up on her doorstep.
First, however, I had to see to that Foryn looked decent, so I turned to a legionnaire I used to know, Vodunicus Nuccius, who still hadn’t managed to get home to Cyrodiil. I asked him if he possibly could guard Foryn for me while I went to talk to Thavere, and also see to it that the Dunmer got some more clothes…
Thavere wasn’t overwhelmingly happy about having Foryn Gilnith working for her at first, but after a great deal of persuasion from my side she agreed to the arrangement, providing there would be a guard present for security’s sake.
Vodunicus Nuccius agreed to take care of that; he knew Thavere and was happy to be able to be of service, if for no other reason having something useful to do.
For my sake I decided my task in Seyda Neen was finished and took the strider to Balmora to see Milie Hastien about my terribly destroyed hair before returning to Ald’ruhn and Athyn.
Milie succeeded in making me at least look decent again; of course my hair had to be cut pretty short and then colored with heather to look ok, but I was feeling confident when I finally met with my family again, hoping for some peaceful time to come.
That, as it turned out wasn’t going to happen!
Excellent update! Nice to see you're back on track.
After the previous installment, I wrote that Serene needed a crash course in diplomacy. Well, now that she has had a house nearly crash down on her, it seems she is better at diplomacy than I had previously thought. Her solution to the problem of Foryn and the Tax Man was genius, not least because it seems to have satisfied pretty much everybody involved, and manages to provide true justice of a sort, not just empty punishment. It's too bad that she won't get much time to relax; I hope that in her next situation she can avoid becoming a firey red-head yet again!
Thank you very much, Blackie and Dr Planty, I really appreciate your comments, obviously you still have patience with me and my veeeeery long delays, for that I'm so grateful.
Anyway here's another one for ya! And behold, Sethyas is back...(thanks Blackie for letting me use him)
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“Serene, my love, we will have to go to Ebonheart as soon as possible; there are things there that need to be taken care of, serious things!” Athyn sounded worried as he entered my office that early morning. I looked up, somewhat distraught; I was checking up on the progress of the new Library I started some weeks ago.
“What might be the problem?” I asked. Athyn told me that the EEC had problems with the Legion in Ebonheart; it seemed that the High Commander acted way out of his jurisdiction and had put some extra fees and dues on the company, which didn’t exactly improve business. The presence of the Archmaster was urgently needed, it seemed.
“I guess I’ll have to talk to him, then.” I sighed. Athyn declared he was going with me, no matter what. I’d rather have him stay in Ald’ruhn as acting Archmaster while I was gone but he said he’d already spoken to Hlaren Ramoran about that. He also suggested we pay Ilmeni and Sethyas a visit prior to going to Ebonheart; they were currently staying in Ilmeni’s apartment in St Delyn.
“But why, Athyn? They probably are too busy preparing for their wedding.”
“I’d like him to come with us, for safety’s sake,” Athyn answered, avoiding the heart of my question. Now I was really puzzled; what risk could it be to go and talk to the Legion commander of Ebonheart?
“Is there something you are not telling me?” I asked suspiciously.
He didn’t answer.
Sethyas opened the door to our knocking equipped with a broomstick! I had to hide my face behind Athyn’s back. I just couldn’t resist laughing. That was almost the last thing I’d expected of him, to be that domesticated.
“Ah, Sethyas! Are we interrupting something?” Athyn smiled heartily at him. Seth gave me a dark gaze and shook his head.
“No, no, please come in, I was just…ehh cleaning up a little bit, Ilmeni asked me to.” He put away the broomstick, with a great deal of pleasure as I understood.
Don’t you dare laugh at me, you confounded woman; I’m pretty good at this, and there you go!
I nodded; I didn’t trust myself to not burst out in laughter if I spoke. Ilmeni wasn’t at home; she was visiting her father, but Sethyas agreed to company us to Ebonheart at Athyn’s request.
Sethyas proved to be even more domesticated by offering us lunch, which he prepared himself. Athyn, who is an excellent cook, was impressed by his efforts.
“Quite good kwama-omelet, my boy. The addition of scuttle really makes it tasty”
I said nothing; I just concentrated on eating even though my appetite was poor. But the omelet was quite good, I must admit.
“Are you two making a fool of me?” Sethyas burst out, looking pretty offended.
“By all means, no!” Athyn looked at him, shaking his head. “I’m truly impressed; it’s very kind of you to offer us lunch, really it is!”
I couldn’t hold back anymore, with a big laugh I went over to him, giving him a kiss on his cheek;
“Oh, Seth! It’s just that I couldn’t imagine you cleaning the house and making lunch! It’s so far from my experience of Morag Tong Assassins.” Then giving his arm a friendly hug I continued;
“But it’s sweet of you anyway, dear brother, and I think I’m beginning to like the ‘new’ Sethyas.”
After finishing our lunch we were off. I noticed that Athyn became more and more uneasy as we approached Ebonheart. I couldn’t figure out why, so I hurried them a bit, wanting this task to be done as quickly as possible. I had no idea how I should approach the Commander, but I was sure the words would come to me when needed, as usual.
The Commander’s office was on the second floor and I didn’t bother to knock on his door, as I wanted to take him by surprise.
And a surprise it was, but not the way I thought!
The sight of the man behind the desk made all my nightmares come true! It was HE! Varus Vantinius, my uncle, my sworn enemy, the man that deprived me of my life once, in a past that I had fought so hard to overcome and that I had thought long forgotten!
I gasped for breath; the world went dim, then with a hoarse roar he flung himself towards me, unsheathed his sword and thrust at me.
“YOU, you wretched whore, you shall die!”
I was paralyzed.
Then I was abruptly pushed aside, Varus’ sword shimmered in the air, someone let out a cry of pain, and it was not I, because I had slumped to the floor.
“By Zenithar! Are you her damn lackey? Are you willing to shed blood for her? You must be insane, Dunmer,” Varus smirked. He had stepped back a few steps, looking at the tip of his sword, now covered in blood.
Athyn grabbed me at the waist, holding me behind him; Sethyas was facing Varus, blood dripping from his left arm.
“I am merely defending my Archmaster; it’s my duty as a Redoran Councilor.” Seth said calmly.
“Archmaster? Or rather Archmistress… oh my! Who could imagine that slut would end up as that!” Varus laughed evilly. “Besides, you folks show no respect, bursting in on me like this, I am after all the Knight of the Imperial Dragon.”
“Respect? You know nothing of the word. You have some foul business going on with the EEC and you just now tried to attack the Archmaster, and above that you offended her, calling her names!” Sethyas spat
“Ha! I’ve done far more than calling her names…. in the past that is! She’s a witch and murderess, and a dirty whore! I do not recognize her as Archmaster!”
“Very well, that settles it. Before the Duke, and the Imperial Guard, as a Noble of House Redoran, I challenge your Honor! Only a duel in the Arena shall allow you to defend it!” Sethyas retorted.
I had watched this without even breathing; it all happened so fast. I noticed several Imperial guards approaching, attracted by the commotion I guessed. They were standing there gripping their hilts with increased nervousness.
“Seth,” I whispered. “Please, don’t.”
“You have at least some kind of honor. I respect that. And I will grant your request for a duel. Meet me in the Arena at Vivec tomorrow” Varus said with a wicked grin. Then turning to me he added;
“How does it feel to have another man’s blood on your hands?”
I remained silent, looking at Athyn for comfort, and then I understood; he had known we were to meet with Varus. That’s why he was so uneasy and that’s why he wanted Sethyas to accompany us. I noticed Athyn and Sethyas nod at each other in perfect understanding, so I wondered if they had both known.
Seth wouldn’t let me have a look at his arm until we were back at the apartment; he merely sat at the stern of the gondola staring out at the sky. I was still shaken by the meeting with Varus Vantinius; I couldn’t stop trembling, even though Athyn held me in his arms the whole trip.
The wound was deep; in fact Varus’ sword had gone right through Sethyas’ shoulder and he had lost a fair amount of blood. He looked grayish pale as he sat by the fireplace and finally allowed me to heal him. It was not so easy; the depth of the wound and the enchantment of Chrysamere, Varus’ sword, combined with my shakiness made the healing process take longer then I wished. Afterwards I was totally worn out, drenched in cold sweat. I examined my work and was not totally satisfied with it. He would get a nasty scar as a reminiscence of saving my life, because that was what he had done…again.
That night I did not get much sleep. Athyn and I spent the night in St Delyn; Seth had hired the neighboring apartment for us, and in fact it was the one he himself had stayed in when he arrived in Vvardenfell. I tossed and turned in the narrow bed, and finally decided to get up so as not to disturb Athyn too much; he needed his sleep. I sat by the small window all night thinking about the fact that I once again had met the man I hated more than anyone, and that Sethyas, my brother and soul mate, had challenged him to a duel of life and death. He did it, not me, he did it to save my honor and give me my life back
It scared me, not that I for a split second thought that Sethyas would lose the battle, but I was just worried he would get hurt, get hurt because of me!
Sethyas had declared he would fight the duel alone; he didn’t want us to watch; it would distract him, he said. I had no intention of obeying him in this matter though.
The next morning, I followed Seth to the Arena, without his knowing. The last time I was here I had dueled Bolvyn Venim for the benefit of my House, and now my brother was going to restore my personal honor by fighting Varus Vantinius, my kin, my enemy.
As I mentioned, this match was to be a private one; this time there were no throngs of onlookers. I found a spot behind the lowest barrier, where I could watch the fight without being seen by the combatants.
Sethyas exited his gladiator’s pen, and the legionnaire exited his, already wearing full Imperial Armor.
“Ha! No armor? You come unprepared to duel, Dunmer!” Varus laughed, seeing Sethyas still wearing his ritual red robes.
“No, I am quite prepared…after all. You never specified what the rules of the duel were! I am not a Legion lackey, Varus! I am a Morag Tong Assassin! And the rules are these: Do whatever it takes to kill your opponent! Come, let us begin,” Sethyas yelled from across the field, already running toward him.
I smiled as, for the first time, I saw a look of fear in Varus’ eyes.
Varus brought Chrysamere back for an overhand swing, as Seth sailed through the air, both hands with ancient silver daggers ready for a downward thrust. He landed on my hated uncle before he could follow through, and in the small openings of the Lords Mail, underneath the arms, Sethyas stabbed him with the daggers. But before he could send the blades home, Varus sent Seth flying with an upward kick, and with a yell brought the claymore in a wide overhand arc, the tip of the blade landing where Seth’s head might have been, had he not dodged. But his awkward landing forced him to let go of the silver daggers, which fell to the sand of the Arena.
Spinning to his feet, Seth cursed Varus’ luck, and brought out his Black Hand’s dagger. With a quick lunge, he slashed the rogue Legionnaire’s forearm, forcing him to give ground. Knowing that a dagger could not match Chrysamere, he used the moment to switch to a Daedric katana.
For several seconds, Sethyas kept up footwork to avoid the blows from Varus, preferring to dodge, and parrying when he could. Then, finally, with his breath running out, Varus fell to his knees. When Seth’s blade entered his chest, it was almost gentle, despite the power that had to be behind the thrust.
Varus breathed heavily, feeling the life leave him. He looked up, spotting me where I was standing with a look in his eyes that spoke of evil intent;
“Treacherous whore! I should have killed you back then…” he said as he slumped over to die.
Sethyas picked up the bloodied Chrysamere and sheathed it with a grim smile.
I found I hadn’t been breathing during the last minutes and now my body craved oxygen so I gasped heavily, as tears slowly ran down my face.
Sethyas walked over to me, shaking his head;
“You weren’t supposed to watch this, silly woman,” he said, as I fell into his arms.
Anyway here's another one for ya! And behold, Sethyas is back...(thanks Blackie for letting me use him)
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“Serene, my love, we will have to go to Ebonheart as soon as possible; there are things there that need to be taken care of, serious things!” Athyn sounded worried as he entered my office that early morning. I looked up, somewhat distraught; I was checking up on the progress of the new Library I started some weeks ago.
“What might be the problem?” I asked. Athyn told me that the EEC had problems with the Legion in Ebonheart; it seemed that the High Commander acted way out of his jurisdiction and had put some extra fees and dues on the company, which didn’t exactly improve business. The presence of the Archmaster was urgently needed, it seemed.
“I guess I’ll have to talk to him, then.” I sighed. Athyn declared he was going with me, no matter what. I’d rather have him stay in Ald’ruhn as acting Archmaster while I was gone but he said he’d already spoken to Hlaren Ramoran about that. He also suggested we pay Ilmeni and Sethyas a visit prior to going to Ebonheart; they were currently staying in Ilmeni’s apartment in St Delyn.
“But why, Athyn? They probably are too busy preparing for their wedding.”
“I’d like him to come with us, for safety’s sake,” Athyn answered, avoiding the heart of my question. Now I was really puzzled; what risk could it be to go and talk to the Legion commander of Ebonheart?
“Is there something you are not telling me?” I asked suspiciously.
He didn’t answer.
Sethyas opened the door to our knocking equipped with a broomstick! I had to hide my face behind Athyn’s back. I just couldn’t resist laughing. That was almost the last thing I’d expected of him, to be that domesticated.
“Ah, Sethyas! Are we interrupting something?” Athyn smiled heartily at him. Seth gave me a dark gaze and shook his head.
“No, no, please come in, I was just…ehh cleaning up a little bit, Ilmeni asked me to.” He put away the broomstick, with a great deal of pleasure as I understood.
Don’t you dare laugh at me, you confounded woman; I’m pretty good at this, and there you go!
I nodded; I didn’t trust myself to not burst out in laughter if I spoke. Ilmeni wasn’t at home; she was visiting her father, but Sethyas agreed to company us to Ebonheart at Athyn’s request.
Sethyas proved to be even more domesticated by offering us lunch, which he prepared himself. Athyn, who is an excellent cook, was impressed by his efforts.
“Quite good kwama-omelet, my boy. The addition of scuttle really makes it tasty”
I said nothing; I just concentrated on eating even though my appetite was poor. But the omelet was quite good, I must admit.
“Are you two making a fool of me?” Sethyas burst out, looking pretty offended.
“By all means, no!” Athyn looked at him, shaking his head. “I’m truly impressed; it’s very kind of you to offer us lunch, really it is!”
I couldn’t hold back anymore, with a big laugh I went over to him, giving him a kiss on his cheek;
“Oh, Seth! It’s just that I couldn’t imagine you cleaning the house and making lunch! It’s so far from my experience of Morag Tong Assassins.” Then giving his arm a friendly hug I continued;
“But it’s sweet of you anyway, dear brother, and I think I’m beginning to like the ‘new’ Sethyas.”
After finishing our lunch we were off. I noticed that Athyn became more and more uneasy as we approached Ebonheart. I couldn’t figure out why, so I hurried them a bit, wanting this task to be done as quickly as possible. I had no idea how I should approach the Commander, but I was sure the words would come to me when needed, as usual.
The Commander’s office was on the second floor and I didn’t bother to knock on his door, as I wanted to take him by surprise.
And a surprise it was, but not the way I thought!
The sight of the man behind the desk made all my nightmares come true! It was HE! Varus Vantinius, my uncle, my sworn enemy, the man that deprived me of my life once, in a past that I had fought so hard to overcome and that I had thought long forgotten!
I gasped for breath; the world went dim, then with a hoarse roar he flung himself towards me, unsheathed his sword and thrust at me.
“YOU, you wretched whore, you shall die!”
I was paralyzed.
Then I was abruptly pushed aside, Varus’ sword shimmered in the air, someone let out a cry of pain, and it was not I, because I had slumped to the floor.
“By Zenithar! Are you her damn lackey? Are you willing to shed blood for her? You must be insane, Dunmer,” Varus smirked. He had stepped back a few steps, looking at the tip of his sword, now covered in blood.
Athyn grabbed me at the waist, holding me behind him; Sethyas was facing Varus, blood dripping from his left arm.
“I am merely defending my Archmaster; it’s my duty as a Redoran Councilor.” Seth said calmly.
“Archmaster? Or rather Archmistress… oh my! Who could imagine that slut would end up as that!” Varus laughed evilly. “Besides, you folks show no respect, bursting in on me like this, I am after all the Knight of the Imperial Dragon.”
“Respect? You know nothing of the word. You have some foul business going on with the EEC and you just now tried to attack the Archmaster, and above that you offended her, calling her names!” Sethyas spat
“Ha! I’ve done far more than calling her names…. in the past that is! She’s a witch and murderess, and a dirty whore! I do not recognize her as Archmaster!”
“Very well, that settles it. Before the Duke, and the Imperial Guard, as a Noble of House Redoran, I challenge your Honor! Only a duel in the Arena shall allow you to defend it!” Sethyas retorted.
I had watched this without even breathing; it all happened so fast. I noticed several Imperial guards approaching, attracted by the commotion I guessed. They were standing there gripping their hilts with increased nervousness.
“Seth,” I whispered. “Please, don’t.”
“You have at least some kind of honor. I respect that. And I will grant your request for a duel. Meet me in the Arena at Vivec tomorrow” Varus said with a wicked grin. Then turning to me he added;
“How does it feel to have another man’s blood on your hands?”
I remained silent, looking at Athyn for comfort, and then I understood; he had known we were to meet with Varus. That’s why he was so uneasy and that’s why he wanted Sethyas to accompany us. I noticed Athyn and Sethyas nod at each other in perfect understanding, so I wondered if they had both known.
Seth wouldn’t let me have a look at his arm until we were back at the apartment; he merely sat at the stern of the gondola staring out at the sky. I was still shaken by the meeting with Varus Vantinius; I couldn’t stop trembling, even though Athyn held me in his arms the whole trip.
The wound was deep; in fact Varus’ sword had gone right through Sethyas’ shoulder and he had lost a fair amount of blood. He looked grayish pale as he sat by the fireplace and finally allowed me to heal him. It was not so easy; the depth of the wound and the enchantment of Chrysamere, Varus’ sword, combined with my shakiness made the healing process take longer then I wished. Afterwards I was totally worn out, drenched in cold sweat. I examined my work and was not totally satisfied with it. He would get a nasty scar as a reminiscence of saving my life, because that was what he had done…again.
That night I did not get much sleep. Athyn and I spent the night in St Delyn; Seth had hired the neighboring apartment for us, and in fact it was the one he himself had stayed in when he arrived in Vvardenfell. I tossed and turned in the narrow bed, and finally decided to get up so as not to disturb Athyn too much; he needed his sleep. I sat by the small window all night thinking about the fact that I once again had met the man I hated more than anyone, and that Sethyas, my brother and soul mate, had challenged him to a duel of life and death. He did it, not me, he did it to save my honor and give me my life back
It scared me, not that I for a split second thought that Sethyas would lose the battle, but I was just worried he would get hurt, get hurt because of me!
Sethyas had declared he would fight the duel alone; he didn’t want us to watch; it would distract him, he said. I had no intention of obeying him in this matter though.
The next morning, I followed Seth to the Arena, without his knowing. The last time I was here I had dueled Bolvyn Venim for the benefit of my House, and now my brother was going to restore my personal honor by fighting Varus Vantinius, my kin, my enemy.
As I mentioned, this match was to be a private one; this time there were no throngs of onlookers. I found a spot behind the lowest barrier, where I could watch the fight without being seen by the combatants.
Sethyas exited his gladiator’s pen, and the legionnaire exited his, already wearing full Imperial Armor.
“Ha! No armor? You come unprepared to duel, Dunmer!” Varus laughed, seeing Sethyas still wearing his ritual red robes.
“No, I am quite prepared…after all. You never specified what the rules of the duel were! I am not a Legion lackey, Varus! I am a Morag Tong Assassin! And the rules are these: Do whatever it takes to kill your opponent! Come, let us begin,” Sethyas yelled from across the field, already running toward him.
I smiled as, for the first time, I saw a look of fear in Varus’ eyes.
Varus brought Chrysamere back for an overhand swing, as Seth sailed through the air, both hands with ancient silver daggers ready for a downward thrust. He landed on my hated uncle before he could follow through, and in the small openings of the Lords Mail, underneath the arms, Sethyas stabbed him with the daggers. But before he could send the blades home, Varus sent Seth flying with an upward kick, and with a yell brought the claymore in a wide overhand arc, the tip of the blade landing where Seth’s head might have been, had he not dodged. But his awkward landing forced him to let go of the silver daggers, which fell to the sand of the Arena.
Spinning to his feet, Seth cursed Varus’ luck, and brought out his Black Hand’s dagger. With a quick lunge, he slashed the rogue Legionnaire’s forearm, forcing him to give ground. Knowing that a dagger could not match Chrysamere, he used the moment to switch to a Daedric katana.
For several seconds, Sethyas kept up footwork to avoid the blows from Varus, preferring to dodge, and parrying when he could. Then, finally, with his breath running out, Varus fell to his knees. When Seth’s blade entered his chest, it was almost gentle, despite the power that had to be behind the thrust.
Varus breathed heavily, feeling the life leave him. He looked up, spotting me where I was standing with a look in his eyes that spoke of evil intent;
“Treacherous whore! I should have killed you back then…” he said as he slumped over to die.
Sethyas picked up the bloodied Chrysamere and sheathed it with a grim smile.
I found I hadn’t been breathing during the last minutes and now my body craved oxygen so I gasped heavily, as tears slowly ran down my face.
Sethyas walked over to me, shaking his head;
“You weren’t supposed to watch this, silly woman,” he said, as I fell into his arms.
An update. FINALLY!
So Varus is dealt with, and by Sethyas' hand too, which isn't exactly what I expected. Nice twist there Minque.
So Varus is dealt with, and by Sethyas' hand too, which isn't exactly what I expected. Nice twist there Minque.
Another problem dealt with. I'm glad to see that Serene doesn't have to fight all the battles, but it seems to me she wasn't even given a choice this time. It seemed unlike Athyn to keep her completely in the dark as to what they would encounter in Ebonheart. You've so often painted their relationship as almost idyllic; this sort of deception had better not become commonplace or Serene is going to become quite upset with Athyn. In the end, I suppose I understand why he did it, but he did put Serene in danger by not allowing her to be more prepared.
The relationship between Serene and Sethyas continues to be quite intriguing. I'm glad they've remained friends.
The relationship between Serene and Sethyas continues to be quite intriguing. I'm glad they've remained friends.
Awesome. Killed that guy twice! Oh and yes, very well written as well.
Ok my loyal readers, it's time to wrap up chapter 7...
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Two hours later we were sitting in Ilmeni’s apartment in St Delyn again, licking our wounds, or rather I tried my best to heal the cuts and bruises on Seth, while Athyn offered him a mug of Cyrodiilic Brandy, which he seemed to appreciate more than my doings.
Ilmeni returned from her trip and was quite upset when she found out about the duel.
“Sethyas, you did the right thing, of course, but…but you could have gotten yourself killed. And that would have been …” She burst into tears.
I felt bad. Sethyas had fought for me; if he had been killed it would have been my fault. Then again this was his profession; he was the most skilled assassin of House Redoran; if anyone could stay alive it was Sethyas Velas!
Seth took her on his lap to comfort her, and after a while she composed herself and put out some bread and cheese on the table.
“You’ll get beastly drunk if you drink that stuff without eating,” she said dryly.
Then there was a knock at the door. Ilmeni, who anyway was up on her feet, opened it and in strode two Imperial guards, flanking a familiar person.
“Son… ehh, Imsin! What brings you here?” I asked in astonishment but also joy; it had been a long time since I’d seen her.
“Serene, Athyn…and Sethyas, we have a problem,” Imsin the Dreamer said in a tired voice. "After this duel, I was scheduled to fight Vantinius," she continued
"Why?" I wondered aloud.
"To become Knight of the Imperial Dragon, to command the entire Legion in Vvardenfell. Higher-level ranks in the Legion are often determined by duels. You know this, as you are in the Legion."
I nodded, starting to understand what she was getting at and it made my blood chill.
"The problem here is that you, Sethyas, are now the Knight of the Dragon. We must duel."
Imsin turned to Seth, who didn’t move a muscle, and just stared straight at her.
"No! I, I ... Sonya, you're my friend, Seth is my brother, you can’t!"
“Shush, Renie, she’s right, you know that; let her finish!” Seth muttered. I was stunned; Athyn took my hand and squeezed it;
“Have faith my love, it will be OK.” His words were comforting but the look on his face wasn’t. Ilmeni had grown quite pale; she didn’t say anything, and she was far more composed and calm than I was, but her whole posture showed worry. Athyn rose and put his arm around her back, urging her to sit down beside him.
"I do not want to fight you, Sethyas Velas," Imsin said in a low voice, "but our plans are not served by you as the head of the Legion. It must be me: you have other, more important, matters to attend to."
Sethyas nodded, not taking his eyes off her face. Then she turned to me;
"Serene, listen to me. These duels are not always fought to the death. Only stupid people with foolish pride insist on that. Remember your knowledge of Legion procedure?"
Comprehension dawned on me and I nodded. She stepped away from me, turning to Seth again;
“What about you, Dunmer? Are you prepared to meet me at the Arena in an hour?”
I knew the procedure, but did Sethyas? He wasn’t a member of the Legion…
“Yes, Sera, I am ready.”
Ilmeni looked at me in horror and disbelief. I didn’t know if she could read me but I tried to tell her it would be ok, that is if her beloved assassin would listen to me.
We all went back to the Arena. During the trip I tried to talk to Seth, to tell him what the procedure was all about, but he was unwilling to speak to me; he just held Ilmeni close to him, embracing her and kissing her hard.
Silly Dunmer, you need to know how to do this!
For Azura’s sake, leave me be woman. Get out of my head. I want to have this moment with Ilmeni in peace!
I closed my mind, feeling a bit hurt that he shoved me away, but I did as he wished and sat silent close to Athyn the rest of the trip.
By now the Arena was crowded, for this was to be the ultimate fight, the duel for the title Knight of the Imperial Dragon. The crowd rumbled. They wanted their fight.
Imsin and Sethyas were now alone in the pit. I glanced at Imsin, and despite her calm I could see tears slowly run down her face. That was it. Fear, but mostly anger rose in me and I gathered all my willpower to penetrate the mind of the stubborn Dunmer down in the Pit.
NOW you listen carefully, reckless, silly, stubborn assassin! I will tell you exactly how you will act, and you just DO IT! Without hesitation, without questions. Imsin believes you know this procedure, but I doubt it!
I could see Seth put his hand to his head. Good. I was in. He gave me a quick glance and a grimace. My heart pounded, and I prepared to lead him through this.
"SILENCE" bellowed the Nord who normally leads the duels. It was the same one who led my duel with Bolvyn Venim.
Silence actually descended.
The Nord called to Seth, "Sethyas Velas, are you prepared to duel Imsin the Dreamer right now?"
"I am."
"Imsin, are you ready?"
"I am"
"Begin!"
Seth drew Chrysamere and Imsin drew her weapon.
He shifted the grip on his sword and began the maneuver. It was difficult to do in this armor: it was as if the armor did not want to do it. Nonetheless, he completed the maneuver and was now kneeling on the bloody sand. He was holding Chrysamere by the blade. The hilt faced Imsin.
"I yield," he said. Imsin could not hear him over the roar of the crowd, but the gesture was clear.
I let out my breath; he got it right! I took Ilmeni’s hand, whispering to her that it was going to be OK. She looked at me, wiped her face and kissed me.
Imsin approached him and gently took the offered sword from his hands, sheathed her blade and held his up high. The crowd's roaring grew even louder. The weapon came down ... and its tip rested on the sand.
"SILENCE," shouted the Nord.
The crowd was immediately silent.
"By an honorable duel," he announced, "Imsin the Dreamer has defeated Sethyas Velas and is now Knight of the Imperial Dragon, head of all of the Legion in Vvardenfell!" The crowd went wild. The noise was deafening.
Imsin offered her hand. Seth clasped it and she pulled him to a standing position. She returned Chrysamere to him and smiled.
It was not until late in the night I felt at ease. It was a warm humid night, and we sat outside Ilmeni’s apartment overlooking the sea, sipping warm comberry wine.
“I…I don’t think I’ve had a chance to thank you, Seth, for restoring my honor and giving me my past back,” I said, smiling at him over my mug. He just blinked at me raising his mug in a toast.
Anytime, sis, anytime!
He then turned to Ilmeni, kissing her gently and pleaded;
“So friends, it is high time to prepare yourselves for the event of the year in Vvardenfell; Ilmeni and I are going to get married in about six weeks and you are all invited! Oh, and we would very much appreciate if you, dear Sister, would volunteer to be in charge of the arrangements!”
“Sethyas! Really, Serene is the Archmaster; she surely has better things to do,” Ilmeni hissed.
“Has she now? “Seth laughed. “But our dear Archmistress owes me one, right?”
I smiled, and leaned my head against Athyn’s shoulder.
Anytime, dear brother, anytime!
So at last;
Justice is taken – I had done what was prophesied for my House; I had also regained my honor and my past, without having to take another life…
Comfort is given – At last there would be peace: I could go on with my life, together with my beloved Athyn, with my dear friends and kinsmen. I could be truly happy again.
I should have known there are no such things as happy endings!
Here ends chapter 7
Have patience with me, chapter 8 is already in progress!
************************************************************
Two hours later we were sitting in Ilmeni’s apartment in St Delyn again, licking our wounds, or rather I tried my best to heal the cuts and bruises on Seth, while Athyn offered him a mug of Cyrodiilic Brandy, which he seemed to appreciate more than my doings.
Ilmeni returned from her trip and was quite upset when she found out about the duel.
“Sethyas, you did the right thing, of course, but…but you could have gotten yourself killed. And that would have been …” She burst into tears.
I felt bad. Sethyas had fought for me; if he had been killed it would have been my fault. Then again this was his profession; he was the most skilled assassin of House Redoran; if anyone could stay alive it was Sethyas Velas!
Seth took her on his lap to comfort her, and after a while she composed herself and put out some bread and cheese on the table.
“You’ll get beastly drunk if you drink that stuff without eating,” she said dryly.
Then there was a knock at the door. Ilmeni, who anyway was up on her feet, opened it and in strode two Imperial guards, flanking a familiar person.
“Son… ehh, Imsin! What brings you here?” I asked in astonishment but also joy; it had been a long time since I’d seen her.
“Serene, Athyn…and Sethyas, we have a problem,” Imsin the Dreamer said in a tired voice. "After this duel, I was scheduled to fight Vantinius," she continued
"Why?" I wondered aloud.
"To become Knight of the Imperial Dragon, to command the entire Legion in Vvardenfell. Higher-level ranks in the Legion are often determined by duels. You know this, as you are in the Legion."
I nodded, starting to understand what she was getting at and it made my blood chill.
"The problem here is that you, Sethyas, are now the Knight of the Dragon. We must duel."
Imsin turned to Seth, who didn’t move a muscle, and just stared straight at her.
"No! I, I ... Sonya, you're my friend, Seth is my brother, you can’t!"
“Shush, Renie, she’s right, you know that; let her finish!” Seth muttered. I was stunned; Athyn took my hand and squeezed it;
“Have faith my love, it will be OK.” His words were comforting but the look on his face wasn’t. Ilmeni had grown quite pale; she didn’t say anything, and she was far more composed and calm than I was, but her whole posture showed worry. Athyn rose and put his arm around her back, urging her to sit down beside him.
"I do not want to fight you, Sethyas Velas," Imsin said in a low voice, "but our plans are not served by you as the head of the Legion. It must be me: you have other, more important, matters to attend to."
Sethyas nodded, not taking his eyes off her face. Then she turned to me;
"Serene, listen to me. These duels are not always fought to the death. Only stupid people with foolish pride insist on that. Remember your knowledge of Legion procedure?"
Comprehension dawned on me and I nodded. She stepped away from me, turning to Seth again;
“What about you, Dunmer? Are you prepared to meet me at the Arena in an hour?”
I knew the procedure, but did Sethyas? He wasn’t a member of the Legion…
“Yes, Sera, I am ready.”
Ilmeni looked at me in horror and disbelief. I didn’t know if she could read me but I tried to tell her it would be ok, that is if her beloved assassin would listen to me.
We all went back to the Arena. During the trip I tried to talk to Seth, to tell him what the procedure was all about, but he was unwilling to speak to me; he just held Ilmeni close to him, embracing her and kissing her hard.
Silly Dunmer, you need to know how to do this!
For Azura’s sake, leave me be woman. Get out of my head. I want to have this moment with Ilmeni in peace!
I closed my mind, feeling a bit hurt that he shoved me away, but I did as he wished and sat silent close to Athyn the rest of the trip.
By now the Arena was crowded, for this was to be the ultimate fight, the duel for the title Knight of the Imperial Dragon. The crowd rumbled. They wanted their fight.
Imsin and Sethyas were now alone in the pit. I glanced at Imsin, and despite her calm I could see tears slowly run down her face. That was it. Fear, but mostly anger rose in me and I gathered all my willpower to penetrate the mind of the stubborn Dunmer down in the Pit.
NOW you listen carefully, reckless, silly, stubborn assassin! I will tell you exactly how you will act, and you just DO IT! Without hesitation, without questions. Imsin believes you know this procedure, but I doubt it!
I could see Seth put his hand to his head. Good. I was in. He gave me a quick glance and a grimace. My heart pounded, and I prepared to lead him through this.
"SILENCE" bellowed the Nord who normally leads the duels. It was the same one who led my duel with Bolvyn Venim.
Silence actually descended.
The Nord called to Seth, "Sethyas Velas, are you prepared to duel Imsin the Dreamer right now?"
"I am."
"Imsin, are you ready?"
"I am"
"Begin!"
Seth drew Chrysamere and Imsin drew her weapon.
He shifted the grip on his sword and began the maneuver. It was difficult to do in this armor: it was as if the armor did not want to do it. Nonetheless, he completed the maneuver and was now kneeling on the bloody sand. He was holding Chrysamere by the blade. The hilt faced Imsin.
"I yield," he said. Imsin could not hear him over the roar of the crowd, but the gesture was clear.
I let out my breath; he got it right! I took Ilmeni’s hand, whispering to her that it was going to be OK. She looked at me, wiped her face and kissed me.
Imsin approached him and gently took the offered sword from his hands, sheathed her blade and held his up high. The crowd's roaring grew even louder. The weapon came down ... and its tip rested on the sand.
"SILENCE," shouted the Nord.
The crowd was immediately silent.
"By an honorable duel," he announced, "Imsin the Dreamer has defeated Sethyas Velas and is now Knight of the Imperial Dragon, head of all of the Legion in Vvardenfell!" The crowd went wild. The noise was deafening.
Imsin offered her hand. Seth clasped it and she pulled him to a standing position. She returned Chrysamere to him and smiled.
It was not until late in the night I felt at ease. It was a warm humid night, and we sat outside Ilmeni’s apartment overlooking the sea, sipping warm comberry wine.
“I…I don’t think I’ve had a chance to thank you, Seth, for restoring my honor and giving me my past back,” I said, smiling at him over my mug. He just blinked at me raising his mug in a toast.
Anytime, sis, anytime!
He then turned to Ilmeni, kissing her gently and pleaded;
“So friends, it is high time to prepare yourselves for the event of the year in Vvardenfell; Ilmeni and I are going to get married in about six weeks and you are all invited! Oh, and we would very much appreciate if you, dear Sister, would volunteer to be in charge of the arrangements!”
“Sethyas! Really, Serene is the Archmaster; she surely has better things to do,” Ilmeni hissed.
“Has she now? “Seth laughed. “But our dear Archmistress owes me one, right?”
I smiled, and leaned my head against Athyn’s shoulder.
Anytime, dear brother, anytime!
So at last;
Justice is taken – I had done what was prophesied for my House; I had also regained my honor and my past, without having to take another life…
Comfort is given – At last there would be peace: I could go on with my life, together with my beloved Athyn, with my dear friends and kinsmen. I could be truly happy again.
I should have known there are no such things as happy endings!
Here ends chapter 7
Have patience with me, chapter 8 is already in progress!
An exciting conclusion to chapter 7. It was an interesting twist to have Imsin need to duel Sethyas, and the manner in which he yielded was quite intriguing. I feel there is something more to that yield that remains unclear to me, but it was clearly quite significant to Serene. I'm glad to see the chapter end on such a good note; Serene has certainly had her share of trouble in the last while.
An interesting conclusion, Minque. I'll be looking forward to reading the next chapter.
Job's a good 'un.
Job's a good 'un.
Oh, snickerdoodles! Sorry, I hadn't seen this update! Yes, very well written. I like that not everyhting is about martial prowess and can also be about honor and civilized procedure.
The solution to Foryn Gilnith was elegant- and brought in undercurrents to the tax-collector quest that are not obvious. Your description ends on a more satisfying- and hopeful- note than either of the options available "in-game". Nicely handled.
Having Sethyas "avenge" Serene's honor against Varus was another bit of clever plotting- he could fight the duel more effectively... not without emotion, but without letting the emotion overwhelm him. It also allows Serene to maintain her preferred role as healer and conciliator in divided Vvardenfell. Finally, it was a nice touch to discuss the Knight of the Dragon issue directly, rather than ignoring it. Real life is messy- actions, however desirable, have unintended consequences. The best fiction reflects that truth.
Having Sethyas "avenge" Serene's honor against Varus was another bit of clever plotting- he could fight the duel more effectively... not without emotion, but without letting the emotion overwhelm him. It also allows Serene to maintain her preferred role as healer and conciliator in divided Vvardenfell. Finally, it was a nice touch to discuss the Knight of the Dragon issue directly, rather than ignoring it. Real life is messy- actions, however desirable, have unintended consequences. The best fiction reflects that truth.
It has been seven months!
MORE> SERENE> NOW!!!!!!
MORE> SERENE> NOW!!!!!!
Ihhh...you're right! And the only excuse I have is that these last seven months have been...more busy than I ever had imagined! Anyway your Sethyas-Lore is starting to inspire me very much, I'll start chapter 8....I promise!
Read the entire thing (where's chapter 8?? *taps foot impatiently* ) and I LOVED IT
The emotion you convey is just mindboggling.
I needed inspiration to know where I had to continue my "Memoires of Rales Sarethi" and I found it, thanks to this truly masterly written piece
Leaves me one thing:
MORE!!!
The emotion you convey is just mindboggling.
I needed inspiration to know where I had to continue my "Memoires of Rales Sarethi" and I found it, thanks to this truly masterly written piece
Leaves me one thing:
MORE!!!
Thank you ever so much for nice comments! I truly appreciate it. Now chapter eight is merely still in my head, there are bits and pieces already written but.....
I will continue, it's just so much a matter of getting the peace in mind that is needed to do it
I will continue, it's just so much a matter of getting the peace in mind that is needed to do it
There is one thing I really wanted to know: Is Serene Athynea's mother?
QUOTE(Remko @ Apr 9 2010, 06:22 AM)
There is one thing I really wanted to know: Is Serene Athynea's mother?
That is Athynae to you! Lol - and I second Remko's MORE!!!!!!
QUOTE(Remko @ Apr 9 2010, 12:22 PM)
There is one thing I really wanted to know: Is Serene Athynea's mother?
Yes Serene is Athynae's mother. The little girl who Serene is "writing" her story for...is Athynae! In my story she's 5 years old..
Well.
I wanted to read the WHOLE thing before commenting.
I'm glad I did (read the whole thing, that is). Yet I'm not glad I did (wait to comment, that is).
There are so many good things in this story to remark on, and now I don't know where to begin.
Others have commented on the strength of the emotions in the story, the experiences of the characters, and the rich internal landscape you have developed. I can only echo those previous comments.
I've written pieces that have a similar emotional intensity, and I can see the challenge in writing something like this for extended periods. I can understand why it has taken you so long to come this far (what five years?). It's hard to sustain that level of intense writing when you have RL constantly intruding on your thoughts and time. It's a full time job in and of itself, and unfortunately it doesn't always pay the bills.
It's amazing stuff, really, and I will wait for you to put Chapter Eight together and start your next thread. Maybe not patiently, but I will wait. You have done so well this far.
S.G.M.!
I wanted to read the WHOLE thing before commenting.
I'm glad I did (read the whole thing, that is). Yet I'm not glad I did (wait to comment, that is).
There are so many good things in this story to remark on, and now I don't know where to begin.
Others have commented on the strength of the emotions in the story, the experiences of the characters, and the rich internal landscape you have developed. I can only echo those previous comments.
I've written pieces that have a similar emotional intensity, and I can see the challenge in writing something like this for extended periods. I can understand why it has taken you so long to come this far (what five years?). It's hard to sustain that level of intense writing when you have RL constantly intruding on your thoughts and time. It's a full time job in and of itself, and unfortunately it doesn't always pay the bills.
It's amazing stuff, really, and I will wait for you to put Chapter Eight together and start your next thread. Maybe not patiently, but I will wait. You have done so well this far.
S.G.M.!
I've just finished reading your stories, and I must say excellent work. Now, where is chapter 8? It's been a year and a half since your last update, and even though I've only just read the whole lot, I'm already getting withdrawal symptoms.
S.G.M
S.G.M
Posting this for Athynae- who is too modest to post it herself. But these are her words, as she begins to wonder about Serene's past- and her own future:
In the room next door your young child sleeps and dreams
Of a future filled with dark and light
An incredible adventure
But without knowing her mother's past
And the miracle she brought to Vvardefell
Athynae's journey will be hampered
Her skills not quite as sharp
And the threats that she's sure to face
Will be more dangerous by far
Serene, you met each challenge courageously
And your heart was never changed
From that heart your daughter comes
Prepared to take on the world
She has to know the rest of it
To know from whence her strength comes.
Athynae
In the room next door your young child sleeps and dreams
Of a future filled with dark and light
An incredible adventure
But without knowing her mother's past
And the miracle she brought to Vvardefell
Athynae's journey will be hampered
Her skills not quite as sharp
And the threats that she's sure to face
Will be more dangerous by far
Serene, you met each challenge courageously
And your heart was never changed
From that heart your daughter comes
Prepared to take on the world
She has to know the rest of it
To know from whence her strength comes.
Athynae
I finished reading the entire thing a few months ago, but never made a comment in this, the most recent thread. I had a grand time reading Serene's tale. From the horrific events surrounding her imprisonment, to her eventual rise to power in the very end. There is much to like about the tale.
For starters, the protagonist is not the "player character" in the game, as they tend to be in so many fan fics. Using Trey in the PC's role was a nice way of filling those shoes with a character that other readers here would recognize.
Serene is also not an uber warrior cleaving hordes of foemen left and right with her mighty thews. Talk about a stereotype overused in the fantasy genre! Instead she is a regular woman, filled with vulnerabilities, doing her best to survive and follow her conscience. This makes her a lot easier to identify with, and empathize with, than said muscle-bound heroes.
Lastly, Serene has a long way to go. The story is a journey not only in the external world, where she goes from place to place, and eventually ends up on the top of the Redoran ladder; but it is also just as great an inner journey, in which she is transformed from that shell-shocked girl so badly used by her family into a woman of will and determination. Quite the character development, and the kind that makes you want to cheer for her every victory.
So basically this says it all:
For starters, the protagonist is not the "player character" in the game, as they tend to be in so many fan fics. Using Trey in the PC's role was a nice way of filling those shoes with a character that other readers here would recognize.
Serene is also not an uber warrior cleaving hordes of foemen left and right with her mighty thews. Talk about a stereotype overused in the fantasy genre! Instead she is a regular woman, filled with vulnerabilities, doing her best to survive and follow her conscience. This makes her a lot easier to identify with, and empathize with, than said muscle-bound heroes.
Lastly, Serene has a long way to go. The story is a journey not only in the external world, where she goes from place to place, and eventually ends up on the top of the Redoran ladder; but it is also just as great an inner journey, in which she is transformed from that shell-shocked girl so badly used by her family into a woman of will and determination. Quite the character development, and the kind that makes you want to cheer for her every victory.
So basically this says it all:
QUOTE(treydog @ May 13 2011, 09:34 PM)
Posting this for Athynae- who is too modest to post it herself. But these are her words, as she begins to wonder about Serene's past- and her own future:
In the room next door your young child sleeps and dreams
Of a future filled with dark and light
An incredible adventure
But without knowing her mother's past
And the miracle she brought to Vvardefell
Athynae's journey will be hampered
Her skills not quite as sharp
And the threats that she's sure to face
Will be more dangerous by far
Serene, you met each challenge courageously
And your heart was never changed
From that heart your daughter comes
Prepared to take on the world
She has to know the rest of it
To know from whence her strength comes.
Athynae
WOO HOO !!! Athynae !!!
Oh my my...I'm almost crying here....Thank you Rosie for your wonderful words...much appreciated! And treydoggie my oldest friend here....the poem is wonderful, I feel an urge to continue, because I now see, thanks to your exquisit impersonation of Athynae, that there really is important for her to know the rest!
Serene bows her head and sends blessings to all of you!
mALXie, Rosie, Treydoggie, Blackie, Danny ...YES ALL OF YOU!!!!
Serene bows her head and sends blessings to all of you!
mALXie, Rosie, Treydoggie, Blackie, Danny ...YES ALL OF YOU!!!!
QUOTE(minque @ May 21 2011, 04:15 PM)
Oh my my...I'm almost crying here....Thank you Rosie for your wonderful words...much appreciated! And treydoggie my oldest friend here....the poem is wonderful, I feel an urge to continue, because I now see, thanks to your exquisit impersonation of Athynae, that there really is important for her to know the rest!
Serene bows her head and sends blessings to all of you!
mALXie, Rosie, Treydoggie, Blackie, Danny ...YES ALL OF YOU!!!!
I know we are all THRILLED to hear that we may be leading you toward a continuation. Your story is simply too good to remain unfinished.
One note- the Athynae who wrote the poem is not the character in my story, but a very real person who became the inspiration for my fictional half-elven warrior princess. The only reason the poem appeared under my screen name was because I knew she would not post it herself.
QUOTE(treydog @ May 22 2011, 12:23 AM)
One note- the Athynae who wrote the poem is not the character in my story, but a very real person who became the inspiration for my fictional half-elven warrior princess. The only reason the poem appeared under my screen name was because I knew she would not post it herself.
What??? There is a REAL Athynae???? Hmmm now I am really confused..
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading Serene’s story, and I look forward very much to hearing the rest of her tale!
gah still no update? why so cruel minque? update pretty please?
And Athynae, patience? We have all been waiting for over 2 years... not all of us are young you know. Heh I guess I can wait a bit longer anyway
And Athynae, patience? We have all been waiting for over 2 years... not all of us are young you know. Heh I guess I can wait a bit longer anyway
Patience Doomeister, Mother is working on it she assures me. I don't know that anyone is looking forward to the "rest of the story" more than I am. It will be all that we expect I have no doubt, and a lot that we don't see coming.
Athynae
Athynae
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