Hello everyone!

Welcome to the tale of Lissa Cristenn! We shall start with Volume One of her fabulously, as Lissa would say 'awesome-sauce' tale!

But first, a quick introduction to my Redguard Archress.



For reference, a biography of Lissa is on my profile, but here is a quick intro for new readers

Lissa is a 19 year old Redguard Archress born and raised in the city of Anvil, Cyrodiil.
She is a thrill seeking, tenacious girl with a heart of gold.
She loves her friends and family and adores travelling.

I hope you enjoy reading of her adventures as I have enjoyed writing about them



CONTENTS

NOTE: The prologue starts beneath the table of contents. Quick links to the chapters are provided in the contents.

Volume One - Family

Prologue
Chapter One - Hammerfell
Chapter Two - Prison Break
Chapter Three - The Imperial City
Chapter Four - Road to Chorrol
Chapter Five - Reunions
Chapter Six - GOC: Origins
Chapter Seven - We're off to see Oleta!
Chapter Eight - Kvatch
Chapter Nine - Detour
Chapter Ten - Art Attack!
Chapter Eleven - The Tale of Sir Mazoga









Lissa. Get up.

Lissa, You need to get up now!

“LISSA!”

My eyes pried themselves open. The sun was shining through the window. Another sunny day in Anvil. Maelona was standing by my bed, her hands on her hips.

“Do you realise how long I’ve been calling you for?” Maelona moaned.

She hovered over me, grabbed my duvet and pulled it off the bed, leaving my body vulnerable to the cold air.

“You have to get up. Mother wants you to meet her at the Mages Guild before you go and help Dad with the horses.”

“But I had a lesson yesterday. Come on…” I complained, "one lesson a week is bad enough!"

Maelona looked at me, sincerity in her eyes. She sat on my bed, looking me straight in the eyes.

Ooh, she’s serious now…

“Look, Liss, You know what Mother’s like. You know what you want to do in life and that’s good. But Mother wants you to be safe.”

I groaned before making a suggestion to my stubborn older sister.

“Well, you go and I’ll just copy your notes.” I smiled at her, who, after a short space of time had passed, smiled back.

“Come on Sis, the sooner you get it done the sooner you can go and help dad,” she reminded me.

Hmm… suddenly my lessons look all shiny and new!

Even though tending to the horses was not the most thrilling activity, I got to spend some personal time with my dad, which hardly ever happens due to him being away a lot.

Lesson time, go go go!

I rose out of my bed and put on some clothes. All I could find was a blue shirt and a pair of breeches. Not very complimentary, but it was better than going in my pyjamas; even if my pyjamas were ridiculously cute!

“There’s a good girl,” praised Maelona, “now hurry to the Guild because I’ve got to meet Gogan.”

Ooooh, Gogan eh?

“Maelona has a boyfriend!” I teased, puckering my lips to mimic kissing.

She playfully shoved my shoulder to cease my teasing, laughing as she did so,

“Don’t be mean!” she said, “and he’s NOT my boyfriend!”

“Yet…” I replied under my breath, but purposefully loud enough for Maelona to hear it.

Maelona looked at me, hands on her hips, trying to think of a clever comeback.

“Well what about you and Rhano?” she said, “I’ve seen the way you look at him.”

“Ewww… Rhano?” I said, not disgusted; merely disgraced that she didn’t think of anyone better. “Not in a million years!”

“Oh, really? Shame, because I see sparks there!” Maelona joked, at least, I hoped she was joking.

“Seriously Mae, he’s, like, 16!”

“And?”

“HE’S TWO YEARS OLDER THAN ME!” I informed her. “He’s practically ancient!”

“Lissa, I’m only teasing!” Maelona reassured me, “just relax.”

I kinda felt a bit angry at Maelona’s teasing; mainly because I actually did like Rhano. I just got defensive to hide my embarrassment.

“Sorry Mae, I didn’t meant to shout at you.” I apologized.

Maelona looked confused; probably because she didn’t understand why I was apologizing. To be honest, I didn’t either; she was only teasing.

“That’s okay honey,” she said, hugging me. I think she thought she genuinely upset me. “But jokes aside, you need to go.”

“I know,” I told her. We released ourselves from each other's embrace. I kissed Maelona on the cheek. “Meet up after I help Dad with the horses?”

Maelona nodded, whilst smiling.

“Sure thing.”



“Now, what do we know about draining health?”

I was sat at a desk in the Guild, tears of tiredness streaming down my face. Mother’s lessons were boring. That’s the only word to describe it. She was adamant that I become at least an apprentice in Restoration before I set out on my adventures, But I was only 14. I wasn’t going anywhere just yet.

“Mother, I know all this. To drain health you have to get up real close to the enemy then BAM, health draining goodness.”

“Well, no, you have to touch the enemy to drain its health. Have you even been listening Lissa?”

There was an awkward silence, but I spoke up.

“No.”

“Lissa!”

“I’m sorry Mother, but I just don’t understand why I have to learn so much RIGHT now. I’m not leaving until I’m 21”

“But what about if you run into something before you leave? An ogre? A TROLL! What will you do then?”

“Run like M’aiq I guess…”

“This isn’t a laughing matter, Lissa! You need to know how to take care of yourself!”

I was shocked. I’d never seen mother this angry before.

“Sorry mother, I just…”

“You just what, Lissa? I’m not asking a lot from you, am I?”

“Mother, I-“

She interrupted me before I could finish.

“No more excuses Lissa.” She had tears forming in her delicate eyes. “Why can’t you understand how important this is?”

“I do, Mother, I really do. It’s just… You’re putting too much pressure on me. My little brain can’t handle it. I want to learn, I really, really do but, I just feel like my brains about to go all ka-blooey.”

Mothers eyes slowly turned from angry, to sympathetic. She walked over from the bookshelf and perched next to me. Her hand touched mine.

“I know honey, I’m sorry. It’s just that I worry. I just want you to be completely safe for when you venture out into the world. If I know that I’ve contributed to your safety, I won’t worry as much.”

I felt incredibly guilty after Mother told me this.

Dang, now I feel super bad…

“Oh… sorry Mother. I didn’t know you felt like that. Ok… I wanna keep going.”

“No, Lissa, You’re right. I’m pushing too much on you.” She stood up, walked over to the coat rack and grabbed my coat. “That’s enough for today. Go and see your Father.”

Mother smiled at me. I ran up to her and kissed her on the cheek, grabbed the coat from her hand and headed to the door. Before I had a chance to leave I was grounded to a halt at somebody saying my name.

“Lissa. Are you all done for today?”

It was Carahil, head of the Anvil mages guild; and the nicest Altmer you could ever meet.

“Yeah, mother let me go early!” I said, slightly exited.

“Ah, well it’s about time! To be honest she gets too passionate about her lessons sometimes. I’m glad Oleta has gone easy on you today.”

“Yeah.” I said, I tried to rush away, “see you later!”

“She only wants you to be safe Lissa, do you understand?”

I spoke up, getting more agitated.

I just wanna go!

“Yeah…” I replied. “BYE!”

I headed towards the door, but yet again Carahil had something to say.

“If you ever feel like you need a breather, just come and see me. I’m sure I’ll have something for you to do.” Said Carahil, smiling that kind smile she has.

“Thank you.” I said, sincerely. “I’ve got to go and meet dad now, so…”

A spark of realisation appeared on Carahil’s face.

“OH! I’m terribly sorry! I sometimes do not know when to be quiet. You go! Have fun!”

I nodded, smiled at Carahil and finally left the guild.

Carahil, sometimes I wish you were my… hmm, bad thought.

I tried not to think about what I just thought as I headed to the main gate to Anvil, which led straight to the stables. Dad owned the stables, and the horses we looked after were beautiful.

But I could never afford one of my own...

“LISSA!”

I turned to see Maelona running towards me. “You left this at home.”

She was holding the jade necklace she bought me for my sixth birthday. My most treasured possession.

“Oh, thanks, where’d you find it?”

“Under your pillow. You need to take care of it. It’s magic, you know.” She smiled and handed me the necklace.

“It sure is Mae. I gotta go see Dad. See you later.”

We exchanged hugs and Maelona ran back towards Gogan. They were sitting by the big oak tree opposite the Mages Guild. Maelona spent all her time there. It seemed a bit boring to me. I headed to the main gate to get to the stables when I was stopped yet again by somebody touching my shoulder. I turned to see Rhano behind me, that cute grin on his face.

“Lissa, are you busy?” he asked.

I stared at him. His gorgeous face, his beautiful eyes, his soothing voice, his slim, yet, muscular body…

“…No.” I replied.

“Good, because I need a favour.”

“Yes!” I agreed.

“You don’t even know what it is yet.” Rhano said, smiling.

“Oh… um n-no I don’t do I? Um… haha- what is it?” I asked, nervously.

Brilliant Lissa, made a fool of yourself!

“Well my dad wants me to go to that old abandoned manor by the chapel and pick up some… stuff. Wanna come with?”

Do I want to go to an old, freaky, smelly, scary, haunted, abandoned manor with you?

“…Okay!” I replied.



“Here it is!” said Rhano, holding a strange looking dagger.

We managed to climb into the manor through an old window. The manor was dark and dingy… and smelly. Cobwebs covered the dank walls of the shabby house. We walked through the sitting area, through the dining room (which reeked of rotten food), and into a small foyer where there was a door leading to, what I can only assume was, the basement, and a large staircase leading to the second floor. Laying on a table at the foot of the stairs was the dagger.

“What is that?” I asked.

“It’s my mother's enchanted dagger.” He answered.

“Oh. Why did she leave it here?”

His face turned solemn once I asked that question.

Did I say something wrong?

“Are you ok?” a asked, concerned.

Rhano sat down on the staircase and I perched next to him.

“My mother came into this house to rid it of the ‘ghosts’. She was on a contract for the guild and she… she came here and… she…”

I could see that he was getting upset, but being as macho as he was he didn’t allow himself to cry.

“Did she die here?”

Rhano turned to look at me. He slowly nodded his head with tear filled eyes.

"How?" I stupidly asked. I was met with no response from Rhano; much expected due to the inappropriate nature of the question.

Suddenly I had a realisation.

“Why would your dad send you in here knowing she was… killed, here?”

Rhano said nothing.

“He didn’t send you in here, did he?” I asked.

Rhano shook his head. He turned to look at me.

“I’m sorry for lying. I just wanted something to remember her by, you know? Dad told me that her dagger was lost and I just…. I’m so sorry.”

He began to cry. I respected him for crying, letting his feelings out like that. I hugged him, to comfort him.

“It’s okay…” I said to him.



“Sorry honey but the horses are all sorted.”

After Rhano let out his grief, we left the manor. He headed back to the fighters guild to see his father, Azzan, and I headed to the stables.

“Oh… That’s ok. I’ll go back and see Mother, then.”

“Actually, I had something else planned.”

My eyes lit up.

“Ooh, what is it?”

Dad laughed.

“Now if I told you that, it wouldn’t be a surprise, would it?”

I was incredibly exited. Not only was I spending quality time with my Dad, but he had an amazing day planned. Things were looking perfect.



Dad and I went on a little journey along the Gold Coast. It was about as exciting as getting pinched by a mudcrab, but I loved it. I was with my dad. We were walking along the coast, the sun burning its gaze into our skin when Dad suddenly stopped in his tracks. My attention met with what caught his; a young Bosmer girl being chased by what I could only assume were bandits. Dad unsheathed his mighty war hammer.

"Honey, go back home. Daddy's gotta take care of somethin'." His tone was serious. Mine was not.

"But Daddy, I wanna go with you. I'm not scared."

He knelt down to my level. His eyes met mine.

"I know you're not, honey, but do this for me. Ok?"

After a pause I nodded, my eyes obviously showed my disappointment. Dad kissed my forehead, rose to his feet and chased the Bandits.

After Dad was out of sight I headed back to Anvil. But then I stopped. I needed to know that Dad was ok, so I turned back around and ran in the direction my Dad had gone. I was disobeying his orders, and I didn't care.

The fresh footprints in the sand led to a solitary cave, which I entered without fear. All I could see was black. All I could hear was the lonely sound of water dripping from above. All I could feel was suppressed fear.

I grabbed a torch that hung loosely from the cave wall. Luckily, I knew a minor flare spell, courtesy of my overprotective mother, so lighting the torch was no big deal. It was big, though. I looked like an idiot holding it. The moment the heavy torch was lit, horror filled my body and caused my skin to freeze.

Bodies. Lots of bodies.

The bodies of the bandits, bodies of villagers... and the body of the Bosmer girl. The fear on her face terrified me. She looked so scared. Her eyes were haunting. The smell was horrible. Some of the bodies could have been there for days, or weeks, or months! That was a horrible thought.

What kind of monster could have done this?

But then I noticed something. Dad was nowhere to be seen.

And the dead had large bruises planted on their bodies. The weapon Dad took into the cave with him could easily have made them.

Only one question filled my head.

Did Dad do this?


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Better than the original but a question just occurred to me: Why is spending time with her dad so special? Is he gone most of the time?

Great job! I like the new details!

I loved the new scene with Rhano, and the sisterly teasing between her and Maelona. Those were great additions. And I like her spunky personality, which seemed much more apparent this time around. Also, I like the details you added--it was good before, but I have to agree that this version is better than the original.

A wonderful introduction. You avoided a data dump. What you revealed, you did so almost exclusively via action and dialogue. Well done!

Lissa's personality comes across beautifully, and you did much of it while introducing us to her and several of the important people in her life.

I loved Lissa's horror at the thought of the suggestion of Rhano being her b/f. Because he's old! Then her reaction to meeting him was just priceless. Now that is a teenage girl with a crush alright!

“Run like M’aiq I guess…”
This was a wonderful reference to the Khajiit of blinding speed.


nits:
“Come on Sis, the sooner you get it done the sooner you can go and help dad.” she reminded me.
Rather than a period, that ought to be a comma at the end of the dialogue, as it is followed by a speech tag.

We released ourselves for each others embrace
You missed the possessive apostrophe in other's.

I was stopped yet again bye someone
That is by someone.

Led on a table at the foot of the stairs was the dagger.
I think you meant Left, or Laying?

It’s my mothers enchanted dagger
That is mother's.

Luckily, i knew a minor flare spell
That is I.

Hmm, maybe I'm missing something, but it seems to me that she is a lot of different ages!

Before the prologue, it says she's 19. And then it says that Rhano is 16, but two years older than her. And then it says she's twelve... is she having flashbacks or some such?

Other than that, it's good! You did a nice job of showing what was happening, which is good, because otherwise I wouldn't have been able to suffer through this much ( I can't even read stories if they are all words and no talk).

I also like how you ended the story, it was a cliffhanger, and now I want to read more ( ). Keep it up!

This is my favourite line in the entire thing, Rihanae. Certainly made me chuckle. Not to mention earning a few weird looks from my friends when I accidentally said it in conversation earlier.

Keep it up Rihanae! I'm certainly reading, if a little behind everyone else.

King Coin: Thank you for your compliment. In answer to your question, yes, Lissa's father is rarely around, as stated early in the chapter.

Lady Syl: Hey! welcome to the journal! Thank you for your kind words, i'm glad that you enjoy Lissa's personality! Sometimes she can be seen to come across in a bad light, but hopefully she doesn't all the time

Acadian: Thank you for the compliments! I think i have gotten the hang of avoiding the data dump!
I'm glad that you also like Lissa's personality. She's my little diva

SubRosa: Haha yes, I agree, she is very girly when it comes to the thought of someone finding out who she fancies, so her defences went into overdrive! haha.
Lissa is very worldley, she knows everyone and everyone knows her, even the legendary M'aiq! haha.
Thank you for the nits. Edited.

Petra Arkanian: In answer to your question, Lissa is indeed 19, but the story starts from when she was 14 (I accidently made a typo by reffering to her as 12 at one point.) i apologize if this caused any confusion. Also, thank you for the kind words.

Count Lauriel: Why, hello! What a pleasure it is for you to join us!
I enjoy the fact that you enjoyed the M'aiq quote, and i also enjoyed that you used it in everyday life! Lissa does love to inspire

PREVIOUSLY: Lissa was just living a normal life in a normal town. arguing with her sister, being taught restoration spells by her overprotective mother and going to a haunted mansion with the object of her affection. However, when an afternoon with her father led to him following bandits into a cave after telling Lissa to go home, what could she do but follow. What she found in the cave was a mountain of bodies. and her dad was nowhere to be seen...






I walked slowly through the damp cave, the light from my torch bouncing off the grimy walls. The smell of death was overpowering me. But I wasn’t scared. I wouldn’t allow myself to be scared, because then I would be vulnerable, and I couldn’t let that happen.

As I journeyed I could feel something. Something strange and unsettling. I stopped to examine my surroundings more closely, but there was nothing. Zilch. But I couldn’t shake off the feeling that I was in danger. But if Dad did that he wouldn’t hurt me, would he?

I tried to drop that thought immediately. Just because Dad couldn’t be found, and he went in the cave, and there are dead bodies everywhere doesn’t mean he killed them. Did it?

I continued exploring, and before long I heard voices. Male voices, but they weren’t clear. I followed the sound of the voices, carefully sneaking to avoid detection, just in case. The voices began to increase in volume, and eventually I saw the source. Two figures stood in the darkness. I perched myself behind a large rock, listening carefully to the conversation between the two figures.

“You told me that you wouldn’t harm any humans! That was the deal!”

“But she wasn’t human, was she? She was a Bosmer. The lowest of the low. That’s my opinion anyway”

“You told me that if I brought you blood, any blood. Even animal blood, you would leave my family alone! That was the deal!”

The talk of blood sparked a thought.

A vampire? Oh my-

“Khajiit are animals now?”

“The criminals are, yes.”

“So it’s ok to lead the Khajitt into my home, but you just ‘forgot’ to rescue the Bosmer first?”

“You didn’t give me a chance to do anything about her! You beat them to death to make it look like i killed her!“

“It can’t be helped if you’re carelessness caused her to die like she did.”

“She wasn’t an offering! No humans! REMEMBER!”

“I’m so sorry, my dear Nathaniel, but blood is blood.”

“But it wasn’t part of the –“

“Wait! Something is here.” The vampire interrupted.

I froze.

The vampire began to smell the air, and his eyes pointed to the space I was hidden.

“Come out little Lissa!” Taunted the vampire. I remained in my space.

“Lissa? What are you doing here?” I stood up cautiously from behind the rock and saw the other figure as clear as day come towards me.

Dad...

“Dad, did you kill those people? I can’t believe-“

“No... I didn’t. I just... go home. Now. We will talk when we get back.”

"Oh no my dear fellow, first you will-" said the Imperial vampire. I didn’t even let him finish. Anger overcame me.

“YOU! Stop talking! What have you got my dad involved in?”

My dad looked at me with a slight look of anger; perhaps talking back to a vampire wasn’t the best idea.

“Lissa, honey. Don’t worry.” Dad turned to the vampire. “Our deal is done. You broke the agreement.”

The vampire simply stood there. His grin made the skin on his pale face crease with delight. “It doesn’t work like that, I’m afraid.”

Suddenly the vampire pulled out a long, blood soaked blade and stuck it through my dad’s abdomen. It was so quick. I screamed, in fear and in anger. Adrenaline filled my body. I bolted towards the vampire. I attacked him with my torch. I used all my strength and beat him. He was engulfed in flames. He didn’t even try to fight back, and even if he did I wouldn’t have known. I was too enraged to care about his retaliations. I didn’t even notice that I had achieved victory over the vampire. I continued attacking him. I couldn’t stop. Even though he was dead I couldn’t stop.

“Liss- Lissa, s-s-stop.” The frail, dying voice of my dad. I dropped the torch and ran to him, kneeling by his side.

“Dad! You’re ok-“Blood spurted from his mouth. “Oh, Dad, we have to get you home. Come on.”

“Lissa, it’s too late. It’s too late for me. You need to go home. Forget what you saw. I don’t want Oleta and Maelona’s final memories of me as being a coward.”

"You are not a coward! Don't ever think that! You did what was good for our family."

“I fed living creatures to a vampire. I’m just as soulless as him…” Dad struggled to say.

“You stopped him from hurting us daddy! You’re a hero!” I assured him.

I began to feel tears softly well up behind my eyes.

Please daddy! PLEASE!

"Come on, we need to get home now, Dad!" I tried to lift Dad, to no avail. He spoke again. His voice began to fade. He didn’t have long.

“Promise me something. Never give up on y-your dreams. You discover the world. Promise me you will d-do that for me.”

I hesitated to answer, my tears wouldn’t let me. But I spoke.

“I promise, Daddy”

Dad smiled. His breath faded. Then he was gone. I looked into his eyes, blankly staring at the ceiling.

“Daddy?” I said. “Dad… come on, you can’t give up now!”

I tried gently shaking him to see if I could get a reaction.

Nothing.

“Daddy! Please daddy NO!” I cried. I grabbed dad, holding him tightly.

Our final embrace.



I walked up to the Anvil gate. My arms and chest were covered in dad’s blood. The guard standing at the gate noticed me stumbling towards him; immediately rushing to my aid.
“Lissa, what on earth happened?!” Asked the worried guard.

I collapsed; in shock more than exhaustion.

“Please… I need to get back home... can you help me?” I pleaded.

Without hesitation the guard lifted me into his arms, carrying my back to my house. As he walked I could see people looking at me with shock and even horror at the state I was in; it’s not everyday you see a young girl blood soaked. Quill-weave stood outside the mages guild with her hands covering her mouth, teary eyed. Pinarus and his wife stood outside their house gossiping with each other. Finally, away from the stares and the eyes looming on me we reached my house. The guard knocked on the door, which was answered my Maelona.

“LISSA!” She screamed. She looked at the guard, “what have you done to her?!”

The guard looked at her with arrest in his eyes.

“You better change your tone before speaking to me in that tone!” He warned. “now where should I put her?”

“Follow me.” Maelona beckoned, leading the guard to my bed, of which he gently placed me. “What on earth happened?”

The guard shook his head.

“I do not know. You are better off asking her. I need to head back to my post.” The guard said, heading out of the door.

Maelona sat on my bed, holding my hand, looking horrified at the state I was in.

“Lissa… what happened?” she asked. I couldn’t answer her. It was to horrible and painful to say. Before long, mother entered the room.

“I just saw a guard leave the house. What on Nirn is-“mother noticed the blood stains, “Lissa what happened!”

She ran towards me in a panicked state.

“I don’t know.” Maelona answered, even though the question was directed at me.

Mother stared at me with horror, before a look of realisation stuck on her face.

“Lissa… where is you’re father?” she asked.

I looked at her with tear filled eyes. I could see by the look in her eyes that she knew what I didn’t tell her. she knew something had happened to dad.

Her crying was one of the most painful things I had seen in my life.



I sat, alone, by the oak tree between the guilds. I had all these thought rushing through my head; how I could have stopped dad’s death, how I could have done more, how I could have told him how much I really loved him.

“Lissa?” It was Rhano. He sat next to me on the bench. “How are you doing?”

“I’m not exactly spinning and singing through the Heartlands but… I’m coping.”

“You sure?” he asked.

Again my eyes began to well up with tears.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” I assured him. “It’s just, you know, hard.”

“I get that. When my mother was killed by… whatever it was, I pretended I was okay for, oh, weeks.” He said, smiling.

“Really? You? Pretending?” I asked.

“Yeah.” He laughed.

“But you’re a boy! Boy’s never lie!” I teased. Something about Rhano raised my spirits.

“Hey, don’t be rude now!” he said, smiling THAT smile.

“Sorry… humour is a form of defence I guess…”

“It’s ok, Lissa. You are allowed to be upset. You’re allowed to cry. You’re human, after all.”

His words moved me, to the point where I lust let the tears flow. I gave up trying to hold them back, so I let them loose. Rhano held me in his arms, comforting me.

“It’s okay Lissa. You don’t have to pretend you’re okay, not whe you’re with me.”

I looked up at him. Our eyes met. He slowly leaned in for a kiss. It felt like everything was in slow motion. It was beautiful. His lips were as soft as the inside of a perfect rose. I didn’t want that moment to end.

Oh my…

When the kissing finally did stop he looked at me, smiling.

“If you ever need anything. Whether it’s a shoulder or… anything, I’m you’re man.”

You most certainly are…

“Okay.” I said, smiling for the fist time in forever…



“Are you sure you’re ready, Liss?” Maelona’s voice was reeking of concern.

“Yes! I’m sure! Stop worrying. You’ll get wrinkles!” I laughed. Maelona continued her frantic rant.

“It’s just you said you’d go when you were 21 and you’ve only just turned 16!”

“I know, but when Dad died I decided not to waste any of my life, you know?”

Maelona frowned. She held my shoulders gently, almost comforting me.

“I understand that you’ve been going through some things since Dad died. We all have. But, Liss, that was 2 years ago. You need to have a serious think about what you’re doing.”

I put my hands on Maelona's, “I have thought about it. Don’t try and stop me. Please Sis.”

Maelona just looked at me. She had a sympathetic look in her eye. She soon smiled,

“Well, if it’s what you want to do all I can do is support you. Have you told mother?”

“Yeah... she’s ok with it.”

"Well have you said goodbye to everyone at the guild?"

"Yes Maelona, I have." I answered, exhausted of the questioning.

"Good. I'm certain that everyone wishes you well. What about Rhano?"

I glared. Maelona laughed.

“Sorry, Lissa. I’ll stop.”

After she laughed, silence engulfed us.

“So when are you leaving?” Maelona asked. She looked upset, it was heartbreaking.

“Now, I guess. No time like the present, eh?”

The revelation shocked Maelona, I could see it in her eyes, but she recovered from the state and hugged me. “Please promise me you will keep in touch. Promise me.”

I tried to get away. I hated long goodbyes.

“Yeah, I promise.” I assured her.

She let go of me, but we embraced in a hug one last time. When she let go I could see tears streaming down her face while I forced mine back. I began to walk towards the main gate. I tried not to look back. My adventure was about to begin. Maelona would be fine. I knew that. Maelona shouted after me.

"DON'T FORGET TO WASH YOUR UNDER GARMENTS TWICE A WEEK!"

I turned, flabbergasted. "Maelona! Don't tell everyone what I wear under my clothes! Or I'll tell Gogan what you wear under your clothes!"

I gave Maelona a cheeky gesture, suggesting what I meant, but Maelona turned all serious again.

"Just... just be safe, ok?"

"I will. Love you Sis." I could feel myself welling up, so I turned back towards the gate.

But I couldn’t get over the lie I told her.

It hurt too much to even think about it.

I didn’t tell Mother I was leaving...

I must have missed that sentence...

I really like the changes you made to the chapter.

I was listening to music while reading and this song just so happened to come on when Lissa's dad died

:'( I almost cried when her dad died. I'm glad he wasn't a serial killer, though. And when Rhano came to talk to her afterward, it was sweet and uplifting. Aww, and the first kiss...

Very good!

A very emotional episode for Lissa as she learns some of an unresolved mystery regarding her father, then loses him. You fully displayed the impact on Lissa, Maelona and their mother. Then some comforting words born of experience, and a first kiss from Rhano! Finally, unable to tell her mother, she leaves Anvil to seek her dreams at the young age of 16.

You continue to write Lissa with a young voice that suits her well.

Sorry if my readers thought this reply was an update but i just couldnt wait to comment on the link to the song KC posted. It actually is beautiful and it suits the situation perfectly. It made me cry a tiny bit.

so if i could suggest that readers listen to the music posted on the link in the quote box whilst reading the segment from Lissa's dads demise onward, it truley adds to the scene

Once again, I loved the plotting you have done here. Lissa's father providing the vampire with fresh blood in return for the safety of his family is both original, and entirely logical.

Quill-weave stood outside the mages guild with her hands covering her mouth, teary eyed.
And not to mention her mind awhirl with how she might use that scene in her next book!

The new scene with Rhano adds more depth to their relationship. Not to mention the first kiss. Now I expect to see more of Rhano when Lissa returns from her adventures outside of Cyrodiil.

Finally, Maelona's admonition to wash her underwear was perfect!

King Coin: Thank you for kind words AND introducing me to that beautiful piece of music! I re-read my piece whilst listening to it and it added so much to the atmosphere

Lady Syl: I'm very glad that you are happy that Nathaniel isn't, or wasn't, a killer. I am also happy that the chapter had the effect it did with it's most royal reader

Acadian: Hehe, i'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! It can be difficult trying to put the right amount of emotion across through words, but i hope it came across

SubRosa: Haha, you never know! Quill-Weaves next book may be 'Lissa: WTF happened to her?'... though i highly doubt it i'm glad you enjoyed the little undergarment segment!

PREVIOUSLY: Whilst travelling through the cave Lissa discovered that her father had been offering animals and criminal to a vampire to protect his family. After the vampire killed a Bosmer, Nathaniel cancelled the deal, resulting in the vampire killing him and Lissa killing the vampire.
Also, Lissa and Rhano share their first kiss whilst taling about their losses, and Lissa decideds to leave on her journey early and says a teary farewell to Maelona... but not her mother...






“Welcome to Dragonstar, fellow Redguard! Been in Hammerfell long?”

I was quite overwhelmingly greeted by a friendly man, quite old but still nice. He was also a Redguard and by his attire I could only assume he was a mage of some sort, which was strange… for a Redguard anyway. He wore a blue robe, which was very well made, and he carried a large staff. It was almost as big as me.

“Erm… No, not really. I’ve only just arrived.” I told him. I’d already been travelling for two years, receiving the same greeting everywhere I went. All I wanted was a nice hot bath, and maybe to visit a salon. My hair was awful; it was ratty and greasy, it was just awful.

“Well, I’m suspecting that you are in dire need of some relaxation. Please, come with me. I’ll get you sorted.” The old mage said, wrapping his arm around my shoulder and guiding me through the town. I could see the faces of other members of the town had a hint of disgust towards the mage, which I could understand but didn’t agree with. Everyone is allowed to make their own choices in life and if he chooses to use magic, who cares.

“Thanks, I could use a sit down I guess, you know, treat myself.” I joked. I needed to keep him talking about anything, before he asked me about my travels. They always do. They always ask every little detail. They obviously didn’t realise the amount of effort it took trying to remember-

“So tell me about your travels, young... oh, I don’t know your name, do I? My name is Jakkel Smithin, but please, call me Jak. And yours?

“My name is Maelissa Cristenn, but just call me Lissa. I don’t suppose you have a spring heel or a candlestick, do you?” I said, slightly mocking him, a little joke to myself I hoped he wouldn’t understand.

“Unfortunatley, no.” Jak replied; whether he got the joke or not I didn’t know. “Well, Lissa, let's get you inside and you can tell me all about your travels!” Jak said with delight. He looked at me, smiling, so I forced a smile right back.

Yay…

* * *

We sat in Jak’s cottage. It was very homey, I felt very safe. Apart from the stuffed bear head on the wall that stared directly at me, bearing its bloodstained teeth, I felt very at ease.

“So after I left Skyrim I made my way to High Rock, then here. But if I’m honest, Hammerfell has always been my main destination, I wanted to get in touch with my roots, you know?” I told Jak, I had been stuck telling the story of my travels for an hour at least. I was beginning to bore myself.

“Well, you certainly have been around haven’t you?” He said, he looked almost proud of me, for some strange reason. “So, how long are you planning of gracing Hammerfell with your presence?”

“I don’t know. Maybe a couple of months or so, I don’t know. I was hoping to find a mentor for using the bow, but I don’t know whether Hammerfell would have any. Valenwood would be the best bet, wouldn’t it?”

“Hmm… it would be a wise move. The Bosmers are the most skilled in that particular area.”

“Oh, but that means either going back through Cyrodiil…”

A look of confusion appeared on Jak’s face. “But surely that is a good thing? You will get to see your family?”

“True… but I kinda left with a small lie…” I confessed to the old man.

“May I ask what the lie was?” Asked Jak, intrigued.

I didn’t want to tell him; it was too horrible. I just looked at him, praying he would change the subject.

“Well do not panic, you needn’t travel so far to find a teacher,” Jak had a smile spread across his face. “It just so happens that I’m a master of marksman. I could be your mentor if you would like?”

The coincidental revelation stunned me. It has always been very unlikely for a Redguard to be such an expert in marksman, but who was I to turn down his offer? Assuming he was telling me the truth, that is.

“Yeah, that sound great, Jak, thanks. But do me a quick favour first, yeah?”

“Of course I can. What is it?”

“Prove it?” I said, as nicely as I possibly could. If he was telling the truth, I wouldn’t want to anger him. “Please.”

Jak rose up from his seat. He walked over to a cupboard and grabbed a golden bow and a quiver of arrows. He stood by the open window, readied his shot and fired. I jumped from my seat and ran to the window. A perfect hit of a very thin tree, almost 60 feet away. I turned to Jak, with a smile on my face.

“So… When can we start?”

* * *

Another day, another lesson, but I couldn’t complain. I was pretty handy with a bow, I usually managed to hit a tree after a dozen arrows from 50 feet away, and that was pretty good.

“The problem is, Lissa, you don’t seem to have a connection with your bow.” Jak told me

“How do you mean? The bow is in my hands and my hands are connected to my arms which are connected to me!” I joked.

“I like your enthusiasm, but what I mean is you should’t have to concentrate so hard. It should come naturally to you.”

“It’s hard you know, Jak! My brain can’t handle the pressure of ‘arrow, string, pull, release’.” I protested.

“It will get easier in time, I promise-“ Jak was interrupted as a rock flew past his face, a deliberate attack. I turned my head to see a man staring angrily at Jak.

“YOU’RE NOT WELCOME HERE!” shouted the angry guy.

I turned to Jak, confused as to why he just took the abuse.

“Arne’t you gonna say something?”

Jak tried to change the subject.

“Now, if you line up your-“

I didn’t let him finish. I dropped my bow and walked over to the angry guy, slightly enraged.

“That was big of you wasn’t it. Eh? Throwing rocks at an old man! I bet it makes you feel really big doesn’t it. Hm?”

Jak walked over to me, trying to get me to go back to the training ground by putting his hands on my shoulders. “Lissa, lets-“

“No, Jak, this is unacceptable!” I turned back to the angry guy. He was laughing, whether it was at me or Jak I didn’t know, or care. “Oh, go on, laugh it up! What you need to get into your thick, prejudiced head is that Jak isn’t going anywhere, and neither am I.”

I walked closer to the angry guy, even though I was shorter than him I was still pretty intimidating; at least I liked to think I was.

“The next time you decide to throw things at my friend there will be a LOT of trouble, and if you HIT him… you don’t wanna know!” I stared into his eyes. “Now I suggest you run along.”

He did so. If I’m completely honest I was terrified, but the fact that I actually scared him off? Priceless. I turned to Jak, who had a disappointed look on his face.

“There could have been a better way to deal with that situation, Lissa.”
I looked into his eyes. I actually felt some kind of remorse for my actions.

“Sorry”

*

“Time for dinner Lissa!” Jak shouted to me from downstairs. He was having a fancy dinner party with his friends; he thought it would be the perfect opportunity for me to get to know some people.
I rushed downstairs and some people sat round the large dining table. On the table was, pretty much, a feast. Vegetables, sweetrolls, wine, meat; it’s a shame I was a vegetarian. Jak noticed me and beckoned me to sit down next to him. As I did so he began to speak.

“Everyone, this is my young protégée, Maelissa…”

“JUST Lissa…” I corrected him.

I’ve been here for months and you still can’t get it right! Haha

A friendly looking Breton woman looked at me, smiling. She began to speak to me, her voice quite soothing.

“My name is Aliss,” she aimed her eyes towards a Breton man sat on her left, “and this is my husband, Kollin.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both!” I told them, politely of course.

“Well it’s a pleasure to meet you to. Jak has told us a lot about you.” Kollin told me.

I turned to Jak, “Oh he has, has he.”

Jak winked at me and I laughed.

“You are very beautiful, dear.” said Aliss. “… So I hear you haven’t seen your family in a couple of years?”

Hold up, what is this?

It was a rather odd thing for her to say as it wasn’t any of her business, but before I had a chance to answer a middle age female Redguard spoke to me.

“Don’t worry about her. She is one of those types who is more interested in the lives of others than her own.”

I laughed; this woman seemed pretty cool; I liked people who were to the point.

“I’ll bear that in mind!” I said. The woman reached her hand for mine.

“I’m Tristen.”

“Hi Tristen, I’m humiliated! How do you do!”

Tristen laughed at me, or with me.

Time passed, food was eaten and wine was drunk; by Aliss, mainly.

Tristan turned her attention towards Jak.

“No Falvor today?”

“No,” Jak replied, “he is busy with… a client.”

Oooh, dramatic pause. Someone’s hiding something!

“Falvor always seems to be busy,” said a miserable looking Nord man sat between Kollin and Tristen.

“That’s because he always is, Gord.”

Haha- Gord the Nord.

“Well he should be here!” Gord protested.

“I’ve saved him a seat next to Aliss and me. If he arrives he arrives.”

Gord the Nord snubbed Jak’s comment. Aliss turned to speak to me again.

“So all the females of your family begin their names with ‘Mae’?”

“Only the girls on my dad’s side.” I answered politely.

Aliss didn’t say anything; she gave me a sarcastic looking smile and went back to her food. But, me being me, I couldn’t ignore it.

“What is you prob-” I didn’t finish what I was saying, as I was interrupted by Jak.

“Are you not eating anything Lissa?” he asked, aiming his attention towards the venison.

“Jak, I’m vegetarian, remember?”

Jak had a slight look of panic on his face, as if he made some grave mistake.

“I’m so sorry, Lissa! I completely forgot! I’m so used to you fending for yourself.”

“Jak its fine! There is still stuff I can eat, don’t go all crazy on me!” I joked.

“Jak’s always been like that, Lissa.” Tristen informed me, “It’s best to just reassure him of how useful he
actually is!”

I laughed, “I’ll keep that in mind!” But the laughter was soon gone due to, yet, another question from Aliss.

“So what do you think of Jak’s choice in occupation?”

“I really don’t care. Jak is Jak.” I told her; firmly, but nicely. As nice as I could be anyway.

“But, he is a disgrace to your people?” Aliss replied; strangely calm.

“Aliss, please. Do be quiet.” Tristan warned her.

Silence took over.

Awkward…

More time passed, though the peace was soon ruined by Aliss. Again.

“But what about you Lissa? You are an apprentice in Restoration, correct?”

I answered her, even though I knew where this was going.

Seriously, if she even starts on me…

“I am. Yes.”

“But that too is unacceptable within the Redguard community I would imagine? Did your parents raise you wrong?”

I looked at her, fire in my eyes.

Nobody talks about my family with that level of disrespect.

“Aliss, you are drunk.” Kollin told her; she had had a few glasses of wine, but that was no excuse.

“Hush down, Kollin, Let the woman have her say!” Bellowed Gord the Nord.

“I’m just trying to understand! Why are you around here when you’re parents have raised such an
abomination!”

“Aliss that is enough!” Jak warned her. Warnings weren’t enough.

“Aliss, please. Kollin take her home.” Begged Tristan. She could see the hate milled anger spewing in my
eyes; although I tried not to show it in my body language. Aliss was showing no sign of stopping.

“The fire is burning in you’re eyes, I can see it. Oleta and Nathaniel made a huge mistake giving you life!”

Before anybody had a chance to speak up I rose to my feet,

“You need to be quiet. Now. Or I WILL NOT be responsible for my actions!”

Aliss just smiled at me, the guest’s looked at her. She also rose to her feet.

“You are a very rude young girl. You shall not get away with talking to me that way.”

I noticed something; Aliss’s hand was glowing. A reddish glow engulfed her palm. She through her hand in my direction and before I could react a small fireball was heading straight for me. Tristan managed to push me out of the way in time, and as I crashed to the floor Kollin pushed Aliss to the floor.

“The fire! IT BURNS! SHE CANNOT LIVE!” Aliss screamed.

Jak cast what I can only assume was a paralyze spell on the insane Breton, silencing her; for now anyway.

“Lissa, are you okay?” Tristan asked. Jak turned to me with a shocked expression on his face. Gord the Nord looked entertained and-

Wait, how did she know my parents name? Not even Jak knew…

How did she?

I had been stuck telling the story of my travels for an hour at least. I was beginning to bore myself.
Lol, this was excellent! I know the feeling somewhat—when people ask me questions of a similar nature, I get pretty bored with myself, too, lol.

…even though I was shorter than him I was still pretty intimidating; at least I liked to think I was.


I LOVED that she stood up for Jak to that prejudiced man. That takes a lot of courage. Way to go, Lissa!

“You are very beautiful, dear.” said Aliss. “… So I hear you haven’t seen your family in a couple of years?”

Hold up, what is this?
Her reaction here is priceless!

Lissa’s commentary during the whole party scene was great!

Ooh, that Aliss woman was horrible! Reading that part, I could just feel Lissa’s anger welling with each comment Aliss made! That should be testament to your skill here—the ability to make the reader feel what the characters are feeling is a talent that only a truly skilled writer can boast!

And that little mystery there—I wondered when Aliss used her parent’s names…and then you confirmed at the end that she hadn’t been told by Jak, so…hmm… food for thought. Excellent chapter!

Nit: I’ve been here for moths and you still can’t get it right! Haha

I love the conflict towards the end. I literally said "Tha F***" when that Brenton started tossing fire around.

I really like how you expanded this instead of just skipping over the whole thing.

I gotta say, I don't like Jak's friends much.

Great chapter!

The extra little bits you added to this second version really elevate it. The disdain that Lissa notes the crowd has for Jak, her question about his springheel, etc... All of the add up to give the entire thing more depth.

Well, that was a nice dinner, for about ten seconds. I am not sure what to make of Aliss. A hypocrite looking for a fight? Or someone in touch with powers that she would be better off without?

You did a good job here of creatively displaying the passage of two years since the previous episode. Wonderful hints of Lissa's past couple years to show that time has passed without feeling obliged to dump out a history. Well done!

So Jak is a mage with a bow! He seems both interesting and likable.

And Lissa is beginning to get her 'archress' on.

Well done with the dinner party. You painted a full course scene here. We knew what the menu was and got a nice feel for those in attendance.

“Hi Tristen, I’m humiliated! How do you do!”

And Alyss. A mysterious Breton that one can't help but dislike. You have certainly piqued curiosity about how Alyss knows what she seems to know.

Acadian: I'm so glad that you find Jak likeable, everybody in dragonstar appears to detest the Redguard mage (Apart from his friends, of course)! Aliss is incredibly mysterious, but what are the lengths she will go to rid the 'abobination' from the world?

SubRosa: I'm so thrilled that you enjoyed the re-write. I enjoyed writing about the new aspects of Lissa and Jak's relationship, as i hope you enjoyed reading it

King Coin: I am glad that Aliss's fireball antics caused that reaction for you as, i'm sure, everyone at the party felt exactly the same Lissa also doesn't like Jak's friends very much; apart from Tristen.

Lady Syl: I'm so glad that you enjoy Lissa's little comment's on the situation, although she rarely finds herself actually saying how she feels out loud. Her mouth may get her in trouble one day if she decideds to do so thank you for the nit. edited

PREVIOUSLY: After travelling Tamriel for two years, Lissa finds herself in Hammerfell, where she is greeting by a Redguard mage called Jak; who she discovers is also a markman trainer. During her time living with him he organises a dinner party with a few of his friends. however, during the party Lissa is verbally and physically attacked by one of the guessed who shouted cryptic messages.
But nobody understood why...






I sat in the living room; shaken by the events that took place not ten minutes before.

What on Nirn was up with her?

I sat alone, just me and my thought contemplating how serious the situation could be. If Aliss woke up she could attack me again, maybe even kill me. What ever she was on, I didn’t want any.

I continued to sit in the darkened room in a daze; the candlelight which flickered the only source of light there was in the darkened room, which wasn’t very comforting at all.

“Lissa, are you okay?”

I turned to see Jak behind me; a concerned smile on his face.

“Yeah, I’m holding up I guess.” I told him. “It’s not everyday you get attacked by a crazy fireball throwing psycho.”

He looked at me then walked over to sit next to me on the less than comfortable sofa.

“This is new for us to, Lissa. Aliss has always had a tendency to… speak her mind. But I can assure you she has NEVER attacked anyone before. Never.”

“So I’m the first then, eh? Good golly you Hammerfell-ians know how to make a girl feel welcome.” I joked; Jak didn’t look impressed.

“Lissa there is absolutely no need for any attitude. We are all shaken up, maybe even more so that you.”

I looked at Jak, confused.

“How?” I asked.

“We’ve known Aliss for almost 30 years and not once has she gotten that aggressive. She’s never been aggressive at all.”

Then why now?

I looked at Jak; confusion in his eyes. Silence engulfed us for a mere moment. Eventually, Tristen came in.

“Jak, she’s awake.” She informed him.

“Okay well I’ll just-“

Before Jak had a chance to rise from his seat Tristen spoke again.

“She’s asked to see Lissa, too.”

Um… gulp…

*

We all sat in the dining room; everyone sat at the table, apart from Aliss who sat in the corner. She looked insane. Rocking back and forth whilst mumbling to herself. We all looked her with mostly pity, with a sprinkle of confusion. Something seriously messed up had happened to turn Aliss into this mumbling mess; albeit she wasn’t sweetcakes and flowers before, but it was still worrying.

“Aliss, what happened?” asked Jak.

No response; just more crazy rambling.

“She only seems to talk to herself.” Kollin informed him. Jal looked at me, and then Kollin.

“Did she not ask for Lissa?” He asked. Kollin nodded.

“Maybe you should let Lissa try talking to her?” Tristen proposed to Jak. Jak responded with a look of uncertainty.

“I’m not to sure about that…”

“Jak, she tried to kill me. The least she owes me is an explanation.” I told him. Jak continued to look at me with that reluctant look in his wise eyes, before nodding in agreement. I smiled at him as a thank you, then turned my attention towards Aliss.

“Hi there. Um… I’m not to sure what to ask… I don’t want another fireball almost connecting with my face!” I joked, nervously. Silence; followed by Aliss looking at me directly in the eyes.

“I’m… sorry.” She said. Everyone appeared shocked that she spoke actual words. They all looked at me as if to tell me to keep on talking to her.

“That’s… that’s ok Aliss. We know you weren’t you. But we need to understand why?” I asked. I didn’t get a reply, only a solid stare from Aliss before she spoke again.

“I do not know the cause for my actions…” she said. She sounded genine, but I wasn’t entirely sure.”

Gord the nord decided to speak; or rather, shout.

“Aliss, that was amazing! I didn’t know you had that amount of rage in you!”

Everyone apart from Aliss glared at him. It was highly inappropriate and, well, mean.

“Gord, please.” Jak said, obviously used to his outbursts.

“All I know is… something took over.” Aliss told us.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

Aliss looked at me; tears in her delicate eyes.

“Leinahtan is the name. Don’t trust what you know, Lissa. It’ll kill you.”

“What does that mean?” I asked.

Who is Lay-nah-tan?

“She’s mentioned that name before.” Kollin informed us.

“But who is he?” asked Tristen.

“He is the one that is key to Your destiny.” Aliss said, pointing directly at me.

Tristen rose from her seat and walked cautiously over toward the crazy Breton, kneeling beside her.

“Aliss. We are all here for you, but you NEED to talk to us.” Tristen told her. She reached out her hand to touch Aliss’s shoulder in sympathy. Once her hand made contact with Aliss’s skin she pulled away in shock.

“Tristan, what’s wrong?” Jak asked, extremely worried.

We all saw it. Tristens hand slowly charring away like a burning piece of paper. The skin slowly peeling away revealing bone. The burning spreading up her arms and down her body in a precise fashion, until their was nothing left of Tristen but a pile of mulch on the floor. I screamed in horror.

“What have you done!” I screamed, running over to Tristen’s remains whilst everyone else sat in shock. Aliss slowly stood up. I could ony assume she was possessed by Leinahtan again, and this time I wasn’t going to live through it.

“You can’t be allowed to walk this planet. It’s an abononation to Nirn.” She said before throwing a fireball at me. I was pushed to the ground by Kollin, the fireball hitting him instead; engulfing him in flames before he suffered Tristen’s fate.

“ALISS! What are you doing?” Gord bellowed.

“Aliss… isn’t… home!” she said with an eerie smile. She walked over to Gord; her eyes white. I witnessed Aliss touching Gord, slowly turning him into ice before smashing him into a million pieces as if he were a fragile piece of glass.
Aliss turned her head to look at me; preparing herself for another fireball, before becoming engulfed in flames herself. She collapsed on the floor; a charred mess.
I turned to see Jak stood behind me offering me a hand, which I took. He lifted me up and held me in his arms. I could hear him crying, only slightly. Whatever just happened wasn’t just chance. Someone was out to get me.

But… why?

* * *

“I have a gift for you Lissa. Happy 19th birthday!”

Jak was standing by where I was sat, holding a small package wrapped in silver paper. It was so beautiful I almost didn’t want to open it. But hey, what was I supposed to do?

“Thank you, Jak. You shouldn’t have!” I said, taking the parcel from Jak and opening it carefully, yet hastily. A Sapphire. “Oh… you shouldn’t have.”

Jak laughed; a laugh I rarely heard since Aliss’s massacre. We never really spoke about it, and when we did the subject was always changed.

“No, Lissa this is a Guardian stone.”

“A what what?” I replied, confused.

“This is a stone which enables the holder to speak with their Guardian Spirit. In your case, a young archer named Rihanae.”

“Really?” My voice suddenly turned quite shrill. “THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!”

I jumped out of my seat and grabbed Jak for a hug.

“But that isn’t all.”

A smile covered my face as I wondered what more he could possibly have.

“You have been doing so well with the art of marksman that I have arranged for my friend, Falvor, to come over and give you a reading. He can tell you things about your future.”

My smile grew bigger.

Oh my gosh. Best. Birthday. EVER!

* * *

I sat in my room, waiting for Falvor to arrive, trying to pick out my best clothes.

“Is that really important? He won’t care what you look like.”

I turned around rapidly, scanning the room for the speaker. Nobody was there.

“You won’t find me. I don’t have physical form, well, not anymore.”

I remained on alert mode.

“Are you really this air headed? It’s me, Rihanae, your Guardian.”

I suddenly relaxed, feeling kind of stupid that I didn’t work it out straight away.

“Oh, okay. I really should have guessed that, shouldn’t I?”

It was strange. It was like someone was speaking into my ear as clear as day, but no one was there.

“Anyway like I said, he won’t care what you look like.”

“You don’t know that. He could be a young, handsome Breton for all you know.”

“I doubt that… pick the blue dress.”

“Ooh, good choice!”

I couldn’t resist the urge to ask him about the massacre. If he had been with me my whole life, he must have known something about it.

“What happened with Aliss?”

“I can’t answer that.”

Useful…

“So… you don’t know anything?” I asked, disappointed.

“I didn’t say that; I’m just not obliged to say anything without true evidence.”

Great. An unhelpful sprit guide. Lucky me.

* * *

“So, are you ready for this?” said Falvor, yet another old Redguard mage. I love Hammerfell. So many young men.

“Yes. I most certainly am!”

Falvor took my hand. He pressed his thumbs gently across it. His face looked so serious. It was kind of funny. He seemed to have been mumbling something under his breath. I looked at Jak, who gave me a reassuring nod.

After 5 minutes Falvor’s grip of my hand began to tighten, to the point of causing me pain. He started to speak.

“You have to go back, you must go back. Things will get bad. Very bad. Only you can stop what is coming. Only you can. Go back. You must go back to Cyrodill. NOW! They need you. GO NOW!”

I released my hand from Falvor’s grip. I was slightly unnerved. Jak held onto Falvar and guided him outside.

What the-

“Rihanae, what happened now?”

He stayed silent. For a guardian he was pretty lame.

After a short while he came back in. I stood up and walked over to him, confronting him.

“What just happened, Jak? Is he insane?” I asked, slightly angry.

“He may be a bit intense, but he is never wrong.”

We stood in silence. If he was never wrong, that meant that I was to be some kind of hero or something. But also that meant that people were in danger and if that included mother and Maelona, I had no time for thinking, only doing.

“Right, I’m going back to Cyrodiil.” I informed Jak. He didn’t seem surprised, nor did he try to stop me.

“How will you get there? You can’t walk, not if you want to get there as soon as possible”

“Then I’ll take a carriage.”

“Do you realise how much money you would need for that journey?”

“Then I’ll stowaway. I don’t care; I need to get to Cyrodiil now!”

Jak just looked at me, and then he walked over to me and hugged me.

“You’ve been here a year and you’ve already grown up so much, Lissa.” He let go and held my arms. “You must do what you have to do. But you must know that I will always be here for you, okay? And if you ever need me… well, I’ll just know.”

I stood in silence. I felt emotional, but I hugged him and unintentionally spoke,

“Thanks Daddy.”

I didn’t even notice what I called him…

What the hell just happened??? I was not expecting that at all.
And she receives her guardian stone and reading.

Holy crap that got exciting. Better than the original chapter. Good Job!

Some very effective imagery with Alyss and the fire and skin etc.

Take a look at this:
“What have you done!” I screamed, running over to Tristen’s remains whilst everyone else sat in shock. Tristen stood up slowly. She was possessed by Leinahtan again, and this time I wasn’t going to live through it.'
Tell me that you meant Alyss here instead of Tristen?

And welcome to Rihanae, the quiet and underappreciated spirit guardian. Only been on the job a short time and already being called lame by his young charge.

Looks like a return to Cyrodiil!

Well that was certainly a surprising scene with Aliss! Now who could this Leinahtan is? And why does s/he or it want to kill our Redguard Archress? However, after that, I can see why Redguard's do not like magic!

“Thanks Daddy.”
Oh my! I am not surprised that Lissa might start to see Jak as a surrogate father. This was an excellent touch.

SubRosa: Thank you for the comments! Yes, the Aliss scene was a bit of a spanner in the works! First everyone is enjoying a meal; then Aliss massacres them all ;P

Acadian: Like always, thank you for the comments! and yes, Rihanae and Lissa relationship is, to say the least, rocky to start with, but i'm sure it will improve Thank you for the nit with the names. there's so many characters i get confused! haha

King Coin: haha, i'm glad you enjoyed the spontenaity of Aliss's massaacre!

PREVIOUSLY: After Aliss's attack, they decide that it is safe to talk to her again, but they are wrong as she brutally murders everyone bar Lissa and Jak, who manages to kill her in time. However, before she died she mentioned the name Leinahtan. What could that mean?

For her 19th birthday Lissa was given a stone whihc enables her to talk to her guardian spirit, Rihanae, and a reading by Jak's friend Falvor, who tells Lissa that she muct go back to Cyrodiil or people will die. Lissa decides that she will go back and leaves Jak, accidently calling him daddy...






I woke up; my head was pounding. I stood up off the dirty, concrete floor and took in my surroundings.

Prison.

Darn. I thought it was just a dream.

Apart from my Guardian Stone, which I smuggled in my hair, I had nothing to my name. No money, no weapons, no lipstick. It was awful.

I noticed a small table with a single stool in the corner of the clammy cell, a single ray of light beaming across from a sorry excuse for a window. I sat on the stool, thinking about why I was in this mess.

That’s the last time I stowaway in a first class carriage. It’s a bit of a severe punishment though…

Reality didn’t even hit me. I just sat on the stool, thinking about how awful my clothes were. A cloth shirt
with disgusting trousers.

And the colour! Eurgh...

It was not the best outfit in the world, but it was better than nothing.

Actually no, I would rather wear nothing. I guess I’m l lucky that no-one is around to see me wearing-

“Why, hello there pretty Redguard! Aren’t you a fine example of the female form!” There was male Dunmer stood in the cell opposite mine.

Eww…

“One of the guards owes me a favour. I could have you moved into my cell in minutes… if you like.” The sleaziness in his voice was more of a turn off than a turn on. I tried to ignore him, but the persistent Dunmer just carried on with the flirting; if that’s how he spoke to women, I’m not surprised he ended up in prison.

“It’s not often you see a Redguard with a figure like yours. Your beauty oozes, little one.” He continued. The fact he called me ‘little one’ creeped me out even more. I continued my thrilling action of sitting on the stool, only for my personal time to be interrupted by a certain spirit.

“I told you that you shouldn’t have stowed away. Look what has happened now.” Rihanae said.

“Well if you gave me some helpful advice rather that keep quiet, I wouldn’t be in this mess; would I?” I replied, frustrated.

“But even if I did give you some advice, would you listen to it?”He had a point.
I probably wouldn’t have taken his advice; I would have thought it was a stupid suggestion. If I was completely honest with myself I would say that I was a bit freaked out about the whole guardian spirit thing. I didn’t mean to push Rihanae away, but I just wasn’t used to having a pushy Bosmer in my ear all the time. It wasn’t my idea of a party.

“Now, what are you going to do about him?” Rihanae said about who I can only assume was the Dunmer.

“Hmm… wait till his back is turned and throw this cup at him?”

“I doubt it will go through the gates.”

“Why? The gaps are big enough?”

“I know, but I have it’ll just bounce right back off and collide with your face, and we don’t want that now!”

It was nice to see Rihanae joking for a change; at least I thought he was joking.

“But you do need to do SOMETHING about him.” Rihanae insisted.

I thought about what Rihanae said and I stood up from the stool and walked over to the cell door, staring the Dunmer in the eye.

“Oh, I do hope you’re not talking to me, because if you are, when I’m released, I’ll have you singing the falsetto quicker than you can protect yourself. Do you understand me?”

“Oh, the Redguard has fire in her. I like that.” Suddenly the Dunmer stopped speaking. His attention turned to the sound of soldier walking down the prison steps. “Oh here they come! To take you away!”

I panicked, slightly. These soldiers sounded quite terrifying. I heard the voice of a female, who sounded very uptight. I knew before I saw her that I wasn’t going to like her. Before long the soldiers, three of them, were standing by my cell door. There was a man standing behind them. He wore very royal looking robes. His hair was white and his face was old.

“What are they doing?” I whispered to Rihanae.

“I don’t know. Just do as they say and… try NOT to do anything too… Lissa.”

I froze in the spot where i stood, not knowing what I was going to do from that point onward.

“WHAT!? What is this prisoner doing here! This cell was supposed to be off limits!” shouted the female soldier. She may have been very forthright, but at least I was prettier than her.

“You. Stand by the window. Now.” said another soldier. A male Redguard. A young male Redguard. I did what he said and walked over to the window. I tried to look as attractive as I could, but that was a challenge when you were wearing an empty potato sack. The soldiers walked over to a wall in the far right corner of the cell.

“Now the passage should be over here. There is a loose brick which is a secret switch. Ah, here it is.” The female soldier said, pushing a brick, causing the wall to open. As this was happening, the old mane turned his attention towards me.

“You. I’ve seen you before. In my dreams…”

“…Thanks?” I replied, slightly confused. Was he flirting? Or was he senile?

He turned back towards the soldiers, “She comes with us. No questions.”

“I think you need to ask him some more question’s before you go with him. You don’t know what you’re letting yourself in for.” Said Rihanae.

“Like what? Asking him why I’m in jail to, you know, pass the time?” I whispered back sarcastically.

I looked at the guards, who looked as if they were ready to protest, but they resisted.

“Yes, Emperor.”

Emperor!?

“Wow, plot twist!” I whispered to Rihanae.

“Okay, you can trust him!” Rihanae, informed me.

The Emperor, again, turned towards me.

“Come with us.”

An early release AND the Emperor is speaking to me? Wow…

* * *

I followed the party through the ruins of what appeared to be some sort of tomb, I wasn’t to sure. The architecture was like nothing I had seen before. It was quite large, and I was tempted to shout just to see if it echoed, but I thought that wouldn’t go down well with the soldiers.

“What’s going to happen now?” I asked Rihanae.

“I don’t know. They’ll either let you go free as soon as you leave this ruin…”

“Oh!” I smiled.

“… or they’ll kill you.”

“Oh…” I frowned.

We continued walking. I began to whistle a delightful tune to amuse my self, but i was met by the glare of the female guard.

“Soo… why are we escaping? Is there trouble brewing?” I asked, not to anyone in particular.

“Do NOT ask questions, prisoner!” Warned the Redguard guard. I kept my mouth closed.

We continued walking. It was rather boring, but I couldn’t complain; literally. They’d kill me if I did.

“Rihanae, what is going on? Do you know why we are escaping?” I asked the surprisingly silent spirit.

“Unfortunately I do not have a clue.” He told me. I didn’t know whether he was lying to protect me from the truth, or he genuinely had no idea what was going on.

“I notice you appear to be talking to yourself?” said the emperor, who was walking in front of me. I was slightly shocked… and embarrassed.

“Yes, I… um. I’m slightly insane.” I tried to convince him. “Woo! I’m crazy, like… real crazy!”

Probably not a great idea trying to tell the emperor you’re insane in his bodyguard’s earshot, Lissa.

“Do not worry; I also noticed the gem you clutch in your hand. A guardian stone, is it not?”

I was surprised; mainly that he knew about guardian stone. I thought they were a one off thing.

“Yes, it is. I’m sorry that I… well, lied about my mentality.” I said. The Emperor laughed, and the Redguard guard turned around, scowling at me slightly.

“Emperor…” he said. The Emperor made a hand gesture which must have meant ‘keep walking’, as the guard did so.

“Why don’t you tell me about you Guardian spirit?”

The emperor is interested in ME? Wow…

“Well… he’s a bosmer. Was a bosmer I mean. He’s called Rihanae.”

The Emperor looked interested in what I was saying; I began to wonder whether he had a GS himself.

“Trust him, Lissa. Believe me when I say this.”

I looked at him, slightly confused.

“Um… okay.” I replied.

We walked into a large space, the sound of our footsteps bouncing against the echoing walls.

“Wow…” I said to myself.

Suddenly we were attacked from all around us. There were men in red and black armour trying to attack the Emperor. The soldiers readied themselves for a fight, while I tried to keep the Emperor safe, mainly by hiding with him in a dark corner.

The battle was intense. Blood splattered the walls of the ancient building, but soon enough all the bad guys were dead… but so was the female soldier.

“Captain Renault…” grieved the Emperor. She may have been a stuck up idiot, but she fought well.

“Emperor, we have to keep going.” said the Redguard soldier, and then he turned to me. “You stay here.”

"Oh, but…"

The emperor looked at me and smiled. “Do not worry, this is not the last we will see of each other. We will me again… before the end.”

Morbid much. And I’m going to be all alone in a ruin crawling with assassins. What an excellent way to spend the day.

I looked at the smiling emperor and nodded. The party walked through a gate at the far end of the room, leaving me on my own.

I sat in the large room for a while, before walking over to the body of Captain Renault. I wasn’t that horrified at the fact I was sat right next to a dead body.

After what happened with Aliss, this is nothing.

I thought the decent thing to do would be to close her eyes to make her look more at peace. After I did so I noticed her Blade in her hand. It had her name inscribed on it.

I’d better keep hold of this. They may want it back.

Suddenly Rihanae spoke, he sounded quite excited.

“Lissa, Look over there. That wall is weak. You can knock it down.” said Rihanae.

I noticed the wall of which he spoke and, as he said, it was weak. I readied myself and shoulder rammed the wall. I could feel if moving, but I needed more power. After repeating my actions a few times the wall crumbled, to reveal a dank and stench ridden cavern.

“Good job my spirit friend!” I congratulated him for noticing the walls flaw.

I looked back toward Captain Renault. I was upset about the fact that she would be left here all alone. She could have had a family, kids and friends; but now she will just be left to rot in the ruin.
I couldn’t let my feeling get the better of me so I continued through to the cavern.

I strolled cautiously through the cavern, spotting something that peaked my interest. A skeleton wielding single bow and a quiver of about two dozen arrows attached to its back, which also wore a full set of what appeared to be leather armour. I wasn’t even remotely bothered about touching, and breaking, the skeleton, I was just happy that I was finally armed.

Now to get out of this hole!

Alright! Nice of the Emperor to advise her to LISTEN to her guardian.
Good writing and good chapter.

So Rihane is doing hard time for stowing away on a carriage. I wonder where she tried to hide? Hopefully not in a trunk! At least she got to Cyrodiil free, and even had room and board arranged for her when she arrived!

So her guardian spirit is a Bosmer? That is a neat touch. Now Rihane's voice has that distinctive Bosmer sound in my ear. One thing I have noticed in version 2.0 is that you are doing much more with him. That is good to see. In this episode at least Rihane is a true companion of Lissa's.

She may have been very forthright, but at least I was prettier than her.
Well, good to know we have our priorities straight!

I began to wonder whether he had a GS himself.
I believe that would be Akatosh...

I tried to keep the Emperor safe, mainly by hiding with him in a dark corner.

'A male Redguard. A young male Redguard. I did what he said and walked over to the window. I tried to look as attractive as I could, but that was a challenge when you were wearing an empty potato sack'
Not a single young Redguard back in Jaktown, but here she finally finds one when she's dressed like a potato!

“…Thanks?” I replied, slightly confused. Was he flirting? Or was he senile?
No worries, Lissa. That is as long as he doesn't try that old line, 'What's your sign?' Then you can worry. Oh, wait. . . .

'They’ll either let you go free as soon as you leave this ruin…”
“Oh!” I smiled.
“… or they’ll kill you.”
“Oh…” I frowned.'
Nicely done!

Lissa is managing to make escaping from prison almost fun!

Acadian: Hehe I'm glad you understand Lissa unfortunate scenario when it comes to prison wear and handome young men! It really was a joy travelling through tutorial dungeon with her, and im glad you've enjoyed reading about it

SubRosa: Thank you for the comment about Lissa's relationship with Rihanae. I feel it is important to develop Rihanae as much as it is Lissa, so using him more has been fun, as quite revealing to Lissa's character also!

King Coin: Well, if the Emperor can't get her to listen to Rihanae, who can?

IMPORTANT NOTE: All chapters from this point onward will include screenshots, highlighted by a bold font on a sentance/word. There is also a screenshot added to the previous chapter. I hope you enjoy

PREVIOUSLY: Lissa found herself in prison after stowing away in a carriage. She was eventually met by The emperor and his guards, who were trying to escape and lead the Emperor to safety for a reason unknown to Lissa or Rihanae. After they were attacked by assassins, the Emperor and his remaining guards left Lissa on her own; but Lissa eventually found a way into a secret cavern. what's a girl to do but explore?






I decided to spend a short space of time honing my skills with the bow before I ventured further.

Who knows what I’ll find! Probably more rats.

I studied my surrounding, which, even with the torch I found attached to one of the walls, due to the darkness were barely visible as it was, to see if I could find anything I could use as target practice.

“Lissa, is this really necessary?” Rihanae asked me.

“Why yes, it is. For all I know being locked up for so long could have messed my concentration up to the point where every shot I fire somehow end’s up being fired at me!” I joked.

“Hmm… I understand. Please, continue your search for a target.” He sounded quite sarcastic with that reply, but I decided to ignore him. I continued to scan the area; and I saw a barrel in the distance.

Perfect!

I put the guardian stone in the pocket of my leather greaves and took my bow from my back into my hands. I slid an arrow from the quiver and lined up a shot, pulling the string delicately. I released the string from my grip and watched as the arrow fired perfectly at the middle part of the barrel, which was easily about 50 feet away.

Not THAT impressive but, hey, it is dark.

“Okay, now that you have assured yourself that you are not useless, should we proceed?” Rihanae asked impatiently.

“We shall.” I answered.

I continued to walk through the part of the cavern I was in until I came across a wooden door; and a dead goblin.

“Wow, that’s gross.” I said, surprised.

“Search him.” Rihanae insisted.

“Sure; then how about after that I throw my guardian stone down that mucky well, yeah?” I threatened. There was no way that I was going to touch that thing.

“You managed to search that skeleton without a problem.” Rihanae reminded me.

“Yes, but he had something I needed. This charming fellow doesn’t.” I told Rihanae. But the more I resisted, the more her persisted.

“Just do it.” He said, rather bluntly.

After a few seconds of thinking about how disgusting it would be, I searched him; and found a key.

“Hah.” Said Rihanae, quite patronisingly as it goes.

“All right, so he has a key. And?” I said.

“Try it in that door.” Rihanae instructed.

I did so; only because Rihanae’s behaviour was REALLY getting to me and, like a charm, the door unlocked.

“How did you know that the door was even locked?” I asked, impressed; but also confused.

“I have my ways.” Rihanae Joked.

I proceeded through the wooden door and ended up in, yet, another part of the cavern.

Come on Lissa, did you really think that door would have led to the exit?

I walked through the cavern, dark and dank just like the other one. I followed the cavern until I came across a downwards slope; where 3 rats were sprinting towards me.
I took an arrow from the quiver and readied a shot; noticing something peculiar as the rats ran toward me.

“They’re not running at me… they’re running away from something.”

I kept my arrow notched as the rats ran past me. I walked slowly down the slope, readying myself for an attack; when I saw the silhouette of a man in the distance.

“Another escapee?” Rihanae asked. I didn’t have a clue.

“I don’t know…”

I walked cautiously toward the man, each step being trodden carefully to avoid drawing attention to myself. As I stepped closer I began to see the figure more clearly; it was defiantly a man.

“Are you okay?” I asked him, his head spinning to face me as soon as I spoke. He began to stumble towards me.

“He must be injured. Help him.” Rihanae told me.

It was too dark to see who the man was. I stepped even closer as the man shuffled toward me. Eventually I could see the man as clear as day as he stood in the light reflected from the ruins s above.

A… zombie. Oh no.

The zombie began to charge at me, so I fired my arrow; barely wounding him.

“This isn’t working!” I said to Rihanae.

“He is evidently very slow. Find the right moment and run past him.”

Despite the fact that the zombie was all man-size, he seemed to take up the whole space, in my eyes anyway. I hadn’t seen a zombie before, so I was slightly nervous to say the least. As the zombie stumbled forward I thought about what Rihanae had said.

I let the zombie come up close to me; his odour puke worthy. He lunged for me. An attack at which I ducked and slipped past him; running away from him continuing down the cavern as fast as my little leg’s could carry me.

* * *

My journey led me to a wide open space. A huge circular cave, which had a large dip in the centre which housed some caged rats.

Well, this is rather peculiar…

Then I saw something, something quite nasty.

GOBLINS! Okay, now not so peculiar.

I had no idea what I was going to do from there, so I tried to sneak past them. I wanted to save my arrows, so avoiding detection seemed like the best answer. I could see the exit, which I slowly headed for. Everywhere I turned there seemed to be a goblin. There was even a goblin mage, which I’d never seen before, but was careful not to attract.

I remained in the shadows, creeping past the intellectually challenged creatures, eventually making it to the exit. As I began to head out, something brittle snapped loudly beneath my foot. I jerked my head up and round, to be met by the stares of every Goblin in the cavern. I didn't think, I spun and sprinted towards what I thought was the way out. I ducked under a stalagmite, but not low enough. It clipped my shoulder and sent me spinning. I scrambled to my feet and tried to re-orient myself. The goblins were still on my tail, so I continued to sprint for my life.

I didn't think it would end well.

Notgonnamakeitgonnadie!

* * *

I managed to lose the goblins, and I found an entrance back into the tomb. At the end of the cavern there was a large hole gouged through the wall. I jumped through the hole and into the tomb. I could hear the voice of the Emperor, and relief overcame me. I followed the voice and found the party, all still intact. They were by a gate; the Redguard was trying, yet failing, to unlock it.

“It’s no use, it won’t budge. We’ll have to find another way.” said the Redguard.

I noticed there was another room on the left hand side of the locked gate, so I spoke up.

“What about this room here?”

The party all turned to look at me. The Emperor looked pleased to see me. The soldiers did not.

“What are you doing here?” said the other soldier. He unsheathed his sword and came towards me. “Careful, she might be working with the assassins!”

“No, she’s not. This girl is innocent." the Emperor turned to face me. "Please, accompany me to this room of which you speak. We must talk.” said the Emperor. I obeyed his orders and entered the room with him, with the soldiers remaining outside, keeping guard. The Emperor began to speak again; I could feel a lecture coming on.

“Now we are free from my guards I must inform you that you are key to the survival of Cyrodiil’s people…”
He went on about oblivion, saving the world, his assassinated sons. I spaced out, to be honest.

After his speech he took his amulet off from around his neck and handed it to me. “You must take this Amulet to a man named Jauffre. He resides in the Weynon Priory just outside of Chorrol. Speak to him. Tell him that there is another heir-“

I heard fighting outside. The sound of blades clanging made me nervous, but I knew we were safe. Well, until an assassin came out of nowhere and within milliseconds he killed the Emperor before my eyes. I was shocked as I had no clue as to where he came from. Startled, I fell to the floor. The assassin began to slowly walk towards me. I froze in fear as he lifted his sword ready to plunge it into me.

“You’re going to regret helping the Emperor, Redguard.” threatened the assassin. I closed my eyes, sure of death, when I heard the assassin collapse with a crash to the floor. I opened my eyes. The Redguard soldier stood before me, offering a hand. He killed the assassin. The other soldier was nowhere to be seen.

“Are you ok?” he asked

I brushed myself off before I answered. “Yeah, I’m okay. Thanks.”

“The Emperor. I can’t believe he’s gone. I’ve failed him… did he say anything before he passed?”

“Apart from a gasp of surprise, nothing really. Not anything interesting anyway, but he did give me this amulet.”

“By the Nine! He trusted you with this?”

“I guess. I’ve got to give it to some guy called Jeffrey.”

“Jauffre.”

“Jafferey?”

“Jauffre.”

“Jauffre?”

“Yeah. He’s the head of my order, the Blades. If the Emperor said you have to go to him, then you have to.” He fumbled around in his pocket for a bit, before unveiling a key. “Here, take this. This’ll get you to the sewers, which if you follow will get you out of here.” He handed me the key, then smiled at me. “I’m guessing you’re an Archer. Am I right?”

“Nope. I’m an Archress.”

“An Archress?”

“Yes.”

“So… an Archer?”

“No, an ArchRESS.”

“Okay.” He looked slightly puzzled, but he turned serious again. “You have to go. Now. And please, Be careful.”

* * *

After trekking through dirty water in the rancid sewer I eventually made it to the exit, a single beam of light revealing daylight from the outside. The sewer wasn’t to difficult to navigate through. A few mudcrabs and goblins, but other than that it was a piece of sweetcake.

“Mmm… sweetcake.”

“Lissa!” Rihanae said.

“Sorry.” I apologized.

I opened the exit gate and ran towards my freedom.

Fresh air! Sun! FLOWERS!

I danced beautifully with glee at the beauty of my daring escape, of which the end result was to say the least, beautiful.

But before I caused my self an injury from my, frankly, brilliant moves, I stopped to think.

I’ve got to get to Jeffrey immediately… then to Anvil.
This was only the beginning of what was to come, and I knew it. Just because I was free didn’t mean I actually was free; free from Leinahtan.

I stood outside the gate for a mere moment, admiring my new surroundings. A vast acre of lake spread across the stunning the land. The tweeting of unseen birds that brought sweet music to the land. A ruin across the other side of the lake adding history to the already perfect province that was Cyrodiil; and a mudcrab clawing at me from my far left.

“I have no time for you’re antic’s Mr. mudcrab.” I told it as I walked to my right. I thought about bathing, but i just wanted to get into some real clothes as quick as I could.

“How do I get to the Imperial City from here?” I asked Rihanae.

“It’s quite a challenge I assure you, are you ready for the strain and effort you will have to endure to get there?” He replied.

“Sure.” I said. I wasn’t fussed. The best clothes were in the Imperial City, so I didn’t care how long it would take to get there.

“Turn around.” Rihanae told me; so I did so.

I could see it; the beautiful Whitegold tower that signified the location of the city.

“You weren’t very good at the sarcasm by the way. Most people would find you’re teasing about its location quite humorous but I do not.” I joked. At least Rihanae was Lightening up. For a change.

I began to stroll up the hill, heading for the central landmark of Cyrodiil.

How exiting! The big city!

I smiled to myself.

My journey was about to begin...

My favorite part of the whole chapter!

I sure hope there's more sarcasm from Rihanae in the future.

Lissa and Rihane originally mistaking the zombie for another escaped prisoner was a good touch, as was the natural thought that he was wounded. Talk about surprises!

Once again the Jafferey/Jauffre part was great fun!

Whew! Lissa and Rihanae made it out of the sewers!

“So… an Archer?”
“No, an ArchRESS.”
“Okay.” He looked slightly puzzled, but he turned serious again.'
Not to worry, Lissa. Poor Baurus had trouble with the concept of 'bowgirl' as well.

“How do I get to the Imperial City from here?” I asked Rihanae.
“It’s quite a challenge I assure you, are you ready for the strain and effort you will have to endure to get there?” He replied. '
This segment and the revelation that followed was wonderful!

Acadian: Thank you for the kind words haha, it seem's Buarus doesn't know what to do when confronted with whimsical females such as Buffy and Lissa!

SubRosa: Hehe, i'm still glad that Jeffrey/Jauffre is still an entertaining segment! Tbh in my first playthrough ever i thought that the zombie was a human; so i thought that Lissa would to. I'm glad it worked

King Coin: I'm glad you enjoyed Rihanae's moment of humour, i'm sure there will be plenty more moments like that!

NOTE: The following chapter is versian 1.0 parts 1 & 2 of chapter 3 combined, since there wasn't an awful lot of editing i felt that needed doing. Alos, i am still open to nits, should you need to offer some

PREVIOUSLY: Lissa traveled through the cavers and met up with the emperors party, only to be in charge of loking after the emperor again when the assassins attack. Unfortunately the emperor is killed by an assassin that appeared out of a secret passage, a passage that she is later instructed to follow to make a daring escape. Lissa now has to travel to Chorrol to deliver an amulet to a man named Jauffre that she was given to by the emperor; but not before a quick pit stop to the Imperial City.






The Imperial City was, to say the least, enormous. All I noticed whilst entering the capital was the titanic tower in the middle of the city. As I walked through he busy streets I thought to myself about what my plan of action was for that particular moment.

So I can either stay in town for the night or head to Chorrol now…

I couldn’t decide, it was too hard. I wanted to give the amulet to Jeffery so it was out of the way, but I also wanted to explore the city a bit more, maybe get a bite to eat.

I have to find somewhere to buy some decent clothes, anyway.

Seeing as I found at least fifty septims in the dungeon, I thought I may as well do a bit of retail therapy after my ordeal, but I doubted that I would find anything even remotely affordable.

“I suggest you stay in town for the night, at least. Rest up a bit. Jauffre isn’t going anywhere.” Rihanae suggested, and he was right, as always.

I thought about what I would do, where I would go. So many shops, so little time.

“I think your main priority should be getting your bow repaired. It’s in bad shape.”

“Oh hush, you!” I replied, slightly annoyed. Rihanae was getting on my nerves. “My main priority should be having a bath!”

I decided to ask around to find a source of water large enough to bathe in. I thought about the beautiful stretch of water outside the sewer exit, mentally kicking myself for not bathing while I had the chance. I saw and asked a beggar, I thought about giving her money for helping me, if I felt like it. Maybe. I barely had enough money for me.

“Um, excuse me, I’m looking for a public bathing spot. Or a shower. Do you know of any near here?”

The beggar woman looked at me and smiled.

“Yes, please, follow me… for a piece of gold.”

Without protest, I reached into the bag Baurus gave me and took out a single septim. She took it gently from my fingers and thanked me, then beckoned me to follow her.

“So what is your name, Redguard?” she asked.

“Lissa- Lissa Cristenn. I’m an archress from Anvil.”

“How wonderful. My name is Simplicia.” She told me.

“Good to meet you Simplicia. So... where are we going?”

“There is a small stream of water within the city, near the door to the palace. It’s not exactly fresh, but it should do the job.”

So using dirty water to get clean? Genius.

“Is there nowhere... um... more hygienic?” I asked the kind beggar.

She laughed at me, as if I told a really bad joke. Either that or I just have one of those faces you can't help but laugh at.

“I can honestly say, no. The only way you can have a clean bath here is to break into the palace!” we stopped walking as we reached the door she spoke of and, as she said, there was a stream by the door. It smelled.

I slowly began to walk down a ramp leading into the murky water, reluctantly removing my leather armour to ‘bathe’ in the water. Once I was pretty much naked, I put a single toe in the water.

HOLY MOLY that’s cold!

“Are you sure that there is nowhere else in the city I can bathe?”

“I’m certain.” said simplicia.

I decided to grit my teeth and bear with the water, plunging my whole body inside. I slowly began to wade in the water, but it wasn’t long until I felt something brush against my foot.

“WHAT WAS THAT!” I screamed to Simplicia.

“What was what, dear?” Simplicia wondered.

“Something brushed against my foot!” I panicked.

Simplicia looked at me and chuckled.

“Oh, don’t worry Lissa. It’s nothing to worry about. More than likely just a dead rat.” She said quite calmly.

Dead… rat?

“All clean!” I said, rushing out of the disgusting water. I walked up the ramp and put my clothes back on is ship shape fashion.

“Well, that was pleasant.” I said, putting on my boots. Simplicia smiled at me.

“Imagine bathing in there everyday, child!” Her smile quickly turned into an expectant gaze. “Is there anything else I can help you with?"

“Your repairs, Lissa! It’s important! Get her to take you to a weapon shop, or armourer!” demanded Rihanae.

“You’re boring me now.” I replied. Simplicia looked at me, confused. She must have thought I was talking to her. “No, not you. Um... I need to find a weapon shop. Could you take me to one? For this?”

I reached into my bag and pulled out another gold coin. Simplicia had a grateful look on her frail face. She took the coin from my hand.

“Thank you, Lissa. I’ll take you to ‘A Fighting Chance', it’s the best, I’ve heard.”

Simplicia began to walk and i followed, looking at each person I walked past to see if they had a ‘By the Nine what is that SMELL!” look on their face.

* * *

We didn’t have to walk far to get to ‘A Fighting Chance’, hardly worth the gold to be honest, but if it helped out Simplicia I didn’t mind.

I stood outside the shop door with Simplicia, thanked her and she wondered off, no doubt to do more begging, as beggars do. I opened the doors to the shop, and was met by a room full of weaponry. Swords, daggers, bows and other dangerous things. I walked over to the counter where an old-ish woman was writing on some paper. I coughed to hint at my presence, catching her attention. She looked at me.

I don’t believe it!

“Auntie Rohssan!” I screamed with glee in my voice.

“Lissa? what brings you here?” Rohssan replied. She walked around the counter and embraced me; it was wonderful seeing a familial face again.

“You know, got arrested, escaped from prison. The usual!”

“Wait, What?” Rohssan said, slightly confused.

“Its a long story.” I told her.

“I’ve got time.” Rohssan informed me, leading me to a seat.

* * *

“And now I’ve got to give this to some guy called Jeffrey.” I showed her the amulet.

Rohssan smiled, she seemed quite entertained by my story, strangely.

“Well, you Cristenn women certainly know how to cause trouble!”

“Don’t I know it!” I replied. I went to ask her a question before we were interrupted by the sound of the shop door opening, a black haired Bosmer stood in the doorway. She noticed we were talking and walked sheepishly towards us, holding a fur cuirass in her hands.

“Sorry, Rohssan, but I’m in a bit of a predicament..."

“Did you break your bow again, Jessie?"

“No, not this time. I’ve ripped my cuirass.”

I looked and saw, like she said, a large rip on her cuirass. It looked more like a claw mark, though.

“Oh, I see.” said Rohssan. She stood and took the cuirass from Jessie then walked over to her counter and took out a sewing kit, starting work.

Jessie came over and sat in Rohssan’s seat. She smiled at me, as if she was expecting me to initiate a conversation. She was pretty, but that wouldn’t mean we’d be friends. Suddenly Rohssan spoke.

“Jessie, this is my niece, Lissa. Lissa, this is my favourite customer, Jessie."

Great, Thanks auntie-

“Pleased to meet you!” Jessie said, rather excitedly. She held out her hand which I took, shaking it.

“Ditto.”

The silence was awkward. I prayed for Rohssan to finish up so the atmosphere would loosen up.

“So... what brings you to the city?” Jessie asked.

“Just a pit stop, really. I’m headed to Chorrol.”

“Oh. Any particular reason?”

“Yes, actually. Thank you for asking.” I said sarcastically.

I didn’t mean to be, well, mean, but I couldn’t stand small talk. Jessie was nice enough yes, but I wasn’t in the mood to chat about nothing.

Rohssan walked over, holding the cuirass, now repaired.

“Here we go Jessie.” She handed Jessie the cuirass. Jessie had a pleased look on her face and took the cuiress, standing as she did so.

“Thanks Rohssan, it’s perfect!” She turned to me. “Nice to meet you, Lissa.”

I smiled at her and she left. I was now free to continue my conversation with auntie Rohssan. I had lots of questions to ask.

About Maelona, about the latest happenings.

About mother...

“You’ll have to excuse Jessie, by the way,” Rohssan said. “She could talk for Cyrodiil!”

“It’s okay aunt Rohssan, she wasn’t bothering me.”

Much.

“So anything big happen while I was away?” I continued, changing the subject. There was so much I needed to know.

“Well, Maelona got married and-“

“Wait a minute, hold up. What? And she didn’t let me know?” I was slightly aggravated that Rohssan said this as if I already knew about it. How could I?

“Her and Gogan last year. It was a beautiful ceremony. She did say she tried to contact you via a private investigator.” She could clearly the how angry I looked as her expression turned stern. “You need to realise that you were away for a LONG time. She had no idea where you were. Wipe that look off your face. You can’t blame Maelona when she had no possible way of letting you know about it.”

Rohssan was right and, yeah, I may have been a little bit selfish being a bit annoyed by her revelation, but I put on a smile and acted as if I was ok with it. It wasn’t that Maelona didn’t let me know about it, it was more that fact that I wasn’t there on her big day. I was angrier at myself than anything.

“Lissa, this is wasting time. Forget renting a room for the night, you need to get to Jauffre NOW!” Rihanae ordered. I couldn’t exactly answer him in front or Rohssan, so I tried to excuse myself.

“Um… I need to go outside for a bit of fresh air. I feel really stuffy. Is that okay?” I asked Rohssan.
“Of course, but please come back. We have more to talk about!” She replied with a smile on her face.

I rose from my seat and headed toward the shop door, opened it and left the shop. To the right had side of the shop there was a small arch; perfect for talking to Rihanae without people thinking I’m a lunatic. Once I was under the arch I spoke to Rihanae.

“You could of at least waiting until I’d stopped talking to Rohssan. Rude much,”

“We have no time for family reunions. Not right now anyway.”

His comment made me slightly livid, but again I didn’t want to draw attention to myself by raising my voice to no-one because that’s just weird.

“I don’t understand exactly why it should be me who has to deliver it.”

“Because the emperor entrusted you with a task. A task which you should complete.”

“But WHY! How is me giving an amulet to Jeffrey going to save the world exactly?”

“No, I don’t think Jauffre is the key. But I DO think he is a link. A link to your true destiny”

“Oh, okay, my DESTINY! Right.” I replied, sarcastically of course.

Destiny shmestiny.

“So you’re really going to be this stubborn?”

“Stubborn? Stubborn? I’ll give you-“

Suddenly I heard a voice next to me. A familiar voice.

“Who’s being stubborn?

Jessie was stood next to me, a big grin on her face.

“Erm… no-one, it doesn’t matter,” I replied with a smile and asked her a question, “so you got attacked?”

My eyes pointed in the direction of her cuirass. She went all sheepish on me.

“Um, yeah. Something I tried to do went a bit wrong…” she told me.

A BIT wrong?

Her eyes suddenly turned hopeful.

“I need to ask you something.”

“Okay, shoot.” I said.

As long as it’s not a question about her hair, because I would have to be brutally honest.

“You’re heading to Chorrol, aren’t you?” she asked; a hopeful look in her eyes.

“Um…”

“Yes, you are.” Rihanae said.

“Maybe. Why?” I said.

“Well, I’m trying to get into the Arcane University and I need to get my recommendation from
Chorrol.”

“And that involves me because…” I asked.

“Because I would really like some company if I’m honest. I’ve been travelling alone and I get bored.”

Her face looked quite sad, I wanted to say yes, but I didn’t know if I was even going to Chorrol. While I was thinking, something suddenly registered in my head.

“Wait a minute, you’re a mage?” I asked Jessie.

“No, I’m a conjurer. I’m an apprentice.”

That is seriously cool.

“Can you… show me something?”

Jessie looked around, registering the people walking by.

“Here? Now?” She asked.

“Pretty pretty pretty please! PLEASE!” I begged.

“I don’t know. I’m not very good. What about if what I summon attacks someone? It was something I summoned that attacked me. I can’t risk it hurting someone else.”

“Life is for risks Jessie and I can easily take it down if something gets out of hand,” I informed her. “how about this; you summon something, ANYTHING, and I accompany you to Chorrol.”

Jessie thought about it. She looked around a bit more, then smiled at me.

“Okay.”

YES! This’ll be fun!

Jessie had a look of deep concentration on her face. She raised her right arm and an intense purple glow engulfed her hand. A small portal appeared in front of her and out popped a living skeleton.

Okay. Wow.

I stood in awe of what Jessie had just done. I was the least to say, impressed.

“That is incredible Jessie, seriously. You should be so proud of yourself!”

I was genuinely happy for her. It was amazing.

“Thank you, that means a lot to me. Not a lot of people think I’m very good at what I do.”

“Don’t let what people say bother you, Jess; can I call you Jess?”

“Yeah, sure!” Jessie smiled.

“Look at me! I’m a redguard archress. That’s not very common.”

“I guess! I’m a bit of an archer myself on the side. I don’t suppose you could give me some pointers?”

I smiled at her and held her shoulders.

“How about when we get to Chorrol? Is that okay?”

Jessie’s face lit up.

“Really? You’ll come? Thanks!” Her happiness was obvious, and a bit overwhelming.

“Well, I have to speak to my aunt first but how about I meet you in the inn next door in, let’s say, an hour?”

“Yeah, sure!” I was slightly confused about why Jessie was so exited about me accompanying her to Chorrol.

I must just have that effect on people.

“So what do you have to do in Chorrol?” Jessie asked me. For some reason I didn’t feel reluction to tell a complete stranger my private plans.

“I have to go to Weynon priory and deliver… something to a guy called Jeffrey.”

“OH! I know Jauffre-”

Oh, it IS Jauffre. Now I feel stupid.

“He’s friends with my dad. I know how to sweet talk him!” she said, proudly.

“Do you live in Chorrol, then?”

“No, I live in Bravil, but I used to visit Chorrol a lot since the guild there specializes in conjuration. My dad works there.”

I wasn’t in the mood for an info dump from Jessie right now, so I changed the subject. There would be plenty of time to talk on the way to Chorrol.

“So is there anything about conjuration you can teach me?”

“Are you any good with magic?”

“Basic spells, really. It’s enough to get me by.”

Jessie looked deep in thought. She did that a lot.

“Well, I can’t teach you anything personally, but I’m sure my dad can teach you something basic.”

Major awesomeness right there!

“Well then, it’s a deal. I take you to Chorrol and teach you a bit about archery and YOU get your dad to teach me something in conjuration. Deal?”

“Deal!” replied Jessie.

I’m not sure what it was but there was something about Jessie that I trusted. She was totally insecure and hardly self sufficient, the opposite of me; but despite all this I just knew, there and then, that we were going to be great friends. Even though her hair looked like she’d just been attacked by a bush. But I was willing to let that slide… for now

We're almost caught up now where the other story left off now. You've made some great improvements to the story with this little reboot. I'm really enjoying Lissa's story!



How did Buffy get over here? She's supposed to be in Bravil!

I thought I may as well do a bit of retail therapy


Yay for Simplicia! Methinks that she was playing a little joke on Lissa. I hope so! Otherwise I'm never going to the Imperial City again!

More than likely just a dead rat.”
Yikes! It sounds like Lissa needs to go to the BF or TF if she wants a good bath!

Destiny shmestiny.
I love seeing this again. It reminds me of something Bugs Bunny or Daffy Duck would say.

Lovely to see dear Simplicia again. And how exciting that Rohsann is Lissa's aunt!

Looks like Lissa has a new friend -
'“Yeah, sure!” I was slightly confused about why Jessie was so exited about me accompanying her to Chorrol.
I must just have that effect on people. '

Lissa continues to have a very young and appropriate (for her) voice that is fun to hear. Her interaction with Rihanae is also neat.

*
'Alos, i am still open to nits, should you need to offer some '
Since you are soliciting nits, let me mention that a fair number are still slipping through your editing. What I will do moving forward is simply point out the first one I come to as I read. My hope is this will assist by giving you a feel for the types of errors you are making without overly dwelling on editing details.

' As I walked through he busy streets I thought to myself about what my plan of action was for that particular moment. '
You want 'the' of course.

Sorry, I got behind a little...

Just read Chapter 1.2 and...wow. What a crazy, unexpected turn of events. I am left speechless about Aliss' massacre... And so, Rihanae is Lissa's guardian spirit, eh? I like this, and also I love how Lissa finds him so...helpful! Don't you just wish they would tell you everything you want to know?

All of the chapter was excellent. I enjoyed it, and I'll try to catch up over the weekend, so I'm not leaving comments that are so out of sync with the others!

Lady Syl: I'm so thrilled that you are reading the journal! Thank you for your comments on 1.2, I'm glad you enjoyed it

Acadian: I'm very happy that you enjoy Lissa mannerism's with her speech and communication with Rihanae! Their relationship is a struggled one, but i'm sure it will get better in time haha

SubRosa: Hehe, i'm glad you enjoy Lissa little 'Lissa-ism's' and i hope they are enjoyable to everyone else aswell

King Coin: haha! thanks for noticing that! I'm not sure how Buffy popped in their... must just be more of a fan than i thought!

PREVIOUSLY: Lissa bathed, she shopped and she met a beggar, Simplicia, who led her to the direction of A Fighting Chance so Lissa could get her stuff repaired. Lissa discovers that the proprietor of said shop is her Aunt Rohssan, who tells her a lot about whats been happening whilst Lissa was away. Also, Lissa met Jessie, a Bosmer Conjurer who she managed to persuade to summon something in return for Jessie to have Lissa's companionship to Chorrol, where Jessie need's her latest Arcane University recommendation...






“AH! You’re back!” Said Rohssan as I walked through the shop door, back into her presence.

“Yeah, sorry I took so long. I saw Jessie and-“

“Say no more, that explains it. Like I said; she can talk for Cyrodiil!” Rohssan joked.

“I can’t stay long, Auntie Rohssan. I told Jessie I’d go with her to Chorrol. Poor chick was desperate for company!”

A little white lie. Rohssan’ll never find out about mine and Jessie’s deal. I do do things out of the kindness of my heart though...

Rohssan’s face suddenly turned disappointed.

“Oh, that’s okay. There was a lot I needed to talk to you about, but it can wait.”

She beckoned me over to sit with her, so I did. I sat next to her on the wooden bench, a grin spread across her face.

“I have something for you,” she said with such glee, “Wait here.”

Rohssan rose from her seat and headed toward the basement door at the far end of the shop, opened it and dissapeared.

I wonder what she has for me! Oooh…

I got up from my seat and walked over to the counter. I hoisted myself up onto it, sitting with my legs dangling off the side.

“Lissa, please get of the counter.” Rihanae nagged.

“Why?” I asked.

“Because it won’t look good on Rohssan if a customer walks in and the first thing they see will be you sitting on the counter like a child!”

“So?” I replied. I enjoyed winding him up.

“Lissa, Please.”

“Please what?”

“Please get off the counter!”

He was getting agitated now. I would have gotten off eventually, I just wanted to see how far I could push him. For a dead guy he was rather bossy.

“NO! You’re not the boss of me!

“Get off!”

“NO.”

“Lissa, get off the counter please.”

I turned to see Rohssan, back from the basement. Without hesitation I gently hopped
off the counter. I noticed something in Rohssan’s hand. A large warhammer.

“Cool hammer, Auntie Rohssan.” I said enthusiastically. It was pretty awesome.

“I’m glad you like it Lissa. It’s your fathers.”

My-

“My… fathers?”

“Yes. Please come and sit down. I’ll explain.”

We walked back over to the bench and sat down. She began to explain about the hammer.

“About a year after your dad died, Oleta came into the shop, dragging this hammer with her. She wanted me to sell it.”

“Even though it was dads?”

“She said she wanted to lose a painful memory.”

My eyes began to water.

Why would she try to sell something so precious? How could she?

“Anyway, I gave her my word that I would do what I could. But I decided to wait.”

“Wait for me?” I asked.

“Yes. I thought it would be better off with a Cristenn than a stranger.”

“You’re letting me have it?”

“Yes,” Rohssan smiled, “I am, it should belong to you.”

I reached for the hammer, but before I could touch it Rohssan pulled it away from my grasp.

Um, okay.

“First of all, I need to give you this.” Rohssan said, pulling a bronze ring off her finger, handing it to me. “This ring I hand enchanted with strength. Without it this hammer would be near impossible to wield. For you, especially.”

Thanks, Rohssan. Great pep talk.

I put the ring on my index finger. I felt a little bit different, but not a whole lot.

Time to test it!

I stood up from my seat and grabbed the hammer, which Rohssan and placed on the table before She took the ring off. It would have been quite funny if she took the ring off before dropping the hammer.

Ha-ha.

To my surprise the hammer felt as light as a feather.

Holy moly this ring is amazing!

“Do you like it?” Rohssan asked.

I looked thoughtfully at the hammer, noticing a small inscription on the mighty weapon.

Shatterheart. Cool name.

I raised my head to make eye contact with Rohssan.

“Yeah, I love it!”

*

“Promise me you will visit me soon, okay?” said Rohssan. We were stood outside her shop.

“Yeah, I promise.”

“Good. Now give your old auntie a hug!” she said, her arms outstretched.

I grabbed her for a hug, her armour hardened the blow. We stayed embraced for a little while before we let go of each other. Rohssan gave me a thoughtful nod and headed back inside her shop.

I wondered about what I was going to do now. I had to meet Jessie at some point but first, there was something else I needed to do.

*

I stood inside ‘Red Diamond Jewellery’, a shop just opposite Rohssan’s. I was greeted by a Nord; a rather loud Nord.

“WHAT CAN I DO FOR YOU TODAY?” he said. Actually, he belted it.

“Um, I was wondering how long it took you to fashion a piece of jewellery out of-” I pulled out my guardian stone, “This?”

“Lissa, what are you doing?!” Rihanae asked. I ignored him.

“WELL, IT DEPENDS ON WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE.” He informed me.

Hm… what would I like…?

I thought for a little while; before a minor rush of excitement took over.

I know…

*

“Oh my gosh, Jessie I have so much I need to tell you!”

I saw Jessie sat at the bar as I entered the ‘Merchant’s Inn’, so I ran up to her to show off everything I had gotten.

“First of all, how do you like this?!” I said, showing her my strength ring.

“Wow! That is pretty cool!” She said, exited.

“And… THIS!” I said, showing her Shatterheart.

“AMAZING! It’s so beautiful, Lissa!”

“And… this!” I said, showing her the silver bracelet I had made from my Guardian Stone, and the stone worked just as well even with it’s new look. “I had it made from my sapphire. The guy at the shop cut the sapphire into little bits and forged the pieces onto this bracelet. Pretty, no?”

“No.” Rihanae interrupted. I ignored him, again.

“That is amazing Lissa, I love it!” Jessie exclaimed. A bit over the top, but I appreciated her enthusiasm.

I turned my tone serious. Well, more serious than it was, anyway

“Now, have you done everything you needed to do here?

“Yeah, I have.” Jessie replied.

“Then shall we head to Chorrol?” I asked.

“We shall!”

***

“LISSA!” I heard as I spun to see Simplicia running toward me- well, staggering. Running wasn’t a strong point at her age.

“Hey Simplicia, I’m glad I caught you. Me and my friend are off to Chorrol.” I told her, patting Jessie on the back.

“Oh, well that is a shame. I was hoping you’d be in the city longer.”

“Well will be if she doesn’t stop yapping. We must go now, Lissa!”

I ignored Rihanae’s sudden rudeness.

“Yeah sorry, but I’ve got things to do. Take care of yourself.” I said, edging in for a goodbye hug.

“Don’t leave just yet, I have something for you.”

Jessie and I looked at each other.

“Ooh, what?” I asked.

Simplicia pulled out an envelope from the seam of her skirt and handed it to me. I opened it and looked at the contents. A letter; and a key.

“What does it say?” Jessie asked me.

I took the letter out and read it aloud.

“Lissa, I couldn’t help but notice that you were back in Cyrodiil. Take this key. When the time comes, you’ll know what it is for. From… a friend.”

I looked at Jessie; who took the letter from my hand.

“Who gave this to you?” I asked Simplicia.

“One of the Kajiit from the Courier. He said that the woman who gave it to him told him to give it to me to give to you.”

Woman?

"Who could it be Lissa? Maelona?" Rihanae asked; he sounded as confused as I was.

“Well why not just give it to me first instead of the crazy mind games?” I asked. Simplicia simply shook her head.”

Ahh… the plot thickens...

***

Jessie and I took a gentle stroll through the city as we headed towards the main exit at the Talos Plaza District. The city was absolutely gorgeous. The architecture was exquisite… and it was so CLEAN!

“How long till we get to Chorrol?” I asked Jessie.

She thought before she answered.

“Maybe about half a day?” she replied.

“This’ll be fun Jessie. A journey with just us girls! It’ll be-“

Before I had a chance to finish I was grabbed from behind. I spun around to see an old Breton man staring at me with terror in his eyes.

“Can I help you?” I asked.

“You! It’s you” you’re the person who saves the world! You must go now. Go go go go… now. Go. You have to.”

“Okay, you’re crazy.” I informed him.

“The fire surrounding you, it burn’s so bright. THE DRAGON FIRES! Help them, they must cleanse the city of Dagon…” He continued.

I vaguely recognised the random dribble the old guy was saying. It sounded an awful lot like what Aliss was saying that day.

Leinahtan.

“Are you okay, sir?” Jessie asked him.

The crazy guy turned to Jessie and looked her up and down before speaking to her.

“You’re going to do a good thing. The loss of one life to save many. A valuable asset to the party you are dearest Jessie. When the time comes, you must listen to your head. Do not resist the call of Oblivion.”

Jessie had a strange look on her face. She looked scared. I walked up toe the old guy and gently shoved him.

“Don’t you DARE talk to her like that! You could really scare someone, you know?!”

I walked closer to him: my face edging closer to his.

“I know who you are.” I told him, with a slightly threatening edge to my voice.

“Amuse me, child.” He said, smirking. His breath was nasty.

“Your Leinahtan… and I’m NOT afraid of you.” I said; gritting my teeth.

“Lissa, you need to stay calm; we don’t know what we are dealing with here.” Rihanae said. He was right.

Leinahtan laughed at me.

“You have no idea who I am child.” His laughing came to a halt. “You wouldn’t talk to me with that much disrespect if you did.”

His eyes gradually began to change to hatred, anger, rage. His expression began to boil and before I could even scream for help I was on the floor, the man on top of me tightening his grip around my throat. Jessie tried to help but the crazy guy used some sort of paralysis spell on her.

“Ge-get o-o-off. Get OFF!” I croaked. I could feel my life slowly slipping away. Even with my ring of strength

I was no match for him. I could barely hear Rihanae’s cries of desperation.

I'm gonna die...

The guards seemed to just ignore what was happening. Whoever this guy was, he has some immense power. It’s like he hypnotised the guards into ignoring the attack.

Just as everything was turning black, my life slipping away beneath the crazy guy’s fingers, I heard the release of a drawn bowstring followed by an arrow shooting inside the crazy guys head. The guy released his grip and fell on top of me. I pushed him off and staggered to my feet. Jessie stood, mobile, with her bow in her hand. The look of shock and horror was on her face. She saved my life, yet ruined her own. She killed someone. And she knew it.

The first is always the worst…

I gently walked over to her and put my arm around her.

“Come on. Let’s get to Chorrol.” I said gently to her.

We began to walk away from the scene with the guards still in a mystical trance and the crazy guy led on the floor, blood oozing from the arrow wound in his head. Jessie turned to me, tears in her eyes and shock in her face.

“What was he talking about, Lissa?” she asked.

I turned my head away from her.

Was nowhere safe from him? What am I going to do now…

It was very thoughtful of Rohssan to give the hammer to Lissa when she unexpectedly wandered into her shop. You'd think she'd be more hesitant to give Lissa something when she just up and left for over a year for parts unknown.


I loved that line.


Someone didn't like being cut up and made into a bracelet lol

A mysterious envelope, interesting!

Dire prediction of Jessie's fate. I can't help but worry some.

I hope we find out more about this Leinahtan person.

The plot does thicken. Where did that mysterious letter and key originate from? It does not sound like her sister, as Lissa thought, why would she not just deliver it personally? I wonder if it might have been Leinahtan perhaps?

Speaking of whom, I see the mystery being reared his mysterious head again. Who or whatever he is, he sure likes using others as a mouthpiece. Good thing for Lissa that Jessie was around, else it looks like she would not have survived!

“Lissa, please get of the counter.” Rihanae nagged.
“Why?” I asked.'
This, and the rest of this delightful exchange was very fun!

So Leinahtan didn't get left back there in Hammerfell? Uh oh.

Off to Chorrol I'm guessing!

Acadian: Hehe, i'm glad you enjoyed the counter exchange! Lissa is such a tease!

SubRosa: I think that Lissa will value Jessie's frindship a whole lot more now that she saved Lissa's life! That Leinahtan just doesn't give up! haha

King Coin: It is worrying about Jessie's fortune telling. what a omnious message! And i think Rihanae detests being made into a bracelet... it's not very manly now! haha

PREVIOUSLY: After chatting with Jessie Lissa said goodbye to Rohssan, but not before receiving a ring of strength and her fathers war hammer from her. Then she went to Red Diamond Jewelry and had her Guardian Stone made into a bracelet. once she met up with Jessie they were stopped by Simplicia, who gave Lissa a mysterious letter which contained a key from a 'friend'. whilst leaving the city they were attacked by Leinahtan using the form of an old Breton man, but after killing him the pondered about what happened...






Jessie and I sat in the Wawnet Inn; a pretty little inn just outside the imperial city. We sat at the bar with a drink of Surille Brothers wine in our glasses. Jessie still looked disorientated about what happened; and I couldn’t blame her. I’d told her about Aliss’s massacre on the may to the Inn; explaining about Leinahtan on the way.

She was quiet, really quiet. It was worrying; especially from someone as outspokenly annoying as Jessie.

“Are you okay?” asked the barmaid, directed at Jessie. Jessie didn’t reply.

“She’s just a bit shaken up.” I informed the barmaid; a puzzled look appearing on her face.

“Oh… it’s not the wine I hope?” she laughed. It was a bit inappropriate to joke about Jessie’s state of mind, but it was kinda funny.

“No, it’s not the wine. The wine is delicious.” I assured her.

“I’m glad you think so!” she replied, “I’m a bit of a collector you see. All the fine wines in Cyrodiil can be found here!”

I smiled at her then looked at Jessie, still concerned.

“Talk to her, Lissa.” Rihanae instructed.

“Jessie, what’s on your mind?” I asked her. I could see a tear slowly fall from her eye. I took the opportunity to give her a sympathetic hug.

It must be the whole ‘first kill’ thing. Bless…

“I-I just don’t understand what happened!” She wept.

“I don’t either Jessie, really.” I said; genuinely. This Leinahtan guy wanted something; mainly for me to turn all corpsey, I thought.

“Might I be able to help?” asked the barmaid.

We looked at her.

“How?” I asked her; a little bit confused.

“Well there is a. Imperial Legion soldier who pop’s by sometimes, maybe he can help with whatever happened?”

I smiled in thanks of her offer, but it really wasn’t necessary. This wasn’t anything to do with the guards; it was something to do with me.

“We need to figure out what we are dealing with, Lissa.” Jessie said.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Rihanae interrupted.

“Okay then Jessie. Theories?” I asked her, trying to pep up the conversation a little bit.

“Well what about his origins? This Leinahtan?” she said; her tears slowly drying.

“I have no idea. All I know is that her has the power to posses people and give them a stupid amount of power.”

Jessie thought for a little bit.

“Maybe it has something to do with your family? Your dad, Nathan?”

“Nathaniel and no, I doubt it. Leinahtan would have turned up sooner if it was.”

Jessie pondered some more.

“Well what about that vampire you killed? Maybe when you killed him he figured out a way to stay on Nirn, waiting for his revenge?”

“No, that vampire was too cocky to hide who he was. If it was him he would have told me straight away.”

“You don’t know that for sure.” Jessie told me; she was good at this theory thing.

“It’s possible but I still don’t know.”

“Well what about Rihanae?” She asked.

“What about Rihanae?” Rihanae asked.

“What about him?” I said, intrigued yet confused.

“Well maybe he is a bad guy? Or Jak! It could be Jak!” She said; she was getting way to ahead of herself at this point.

“No it’s not Rihanae OR Jak. Jak was with me when Aliss attacked and Rihanae was with me when crazy dragonfire guy attacked.”

“Well maybe they can control their victim’s using mind control? OOH maybe it’s…”

I stopped her before she could suggest anything else that was stupidly ridiculous. All these accusations sounded even far from plausible. I didn’t know who or what Leinahtan was but I was sure that I was going to find out eventually; and that I was going to kill him… or her.

“What do you think miss…” Jessie asked the barmaid.

“Nerussa and I haven’t a single clue what you girls are talking about; despite my eavesdropping.”

“Well basically some crazy guy tried killing Lissa and I killed him but turns out he was possessed by some guy called Leinahtan and now he wants Lissa dead but it turns out that a year before this woman called Aliss…”

“Are you going to pause for breath at some point?” I asked her, jokingly.

Nerussa had a look on her face like she knew something, but didn’t know what.

“How do you spell Leinahtan? I have some books out the back; I could do a bit of research?” Nerussa suggested.

“I think it’s L-E-I-N-A-H-T-A-N, but I’m not sure.” I said as she jotted down the name. She then disappeared out the back and brought out a book about the Daedric princes.

“You really think its one of these guys?” I asked her.

“I don’t know, but it’s worth a look.” She said.

At that point an Imperial Legion officer wandered into the inn; he looked worn out.

“Ale please, Nerussa.” He asked, sitting down next to Jessie. Nerussa reached under the bar and produced a bottle; giving it to the officer.

“There we go. Busy day?” She asked him.

“Quite. An old man was killed in the Talos plaza district.”

“Oh how horrible!” Nerussa gasped; Jessie and I looked at each other in a panic.

“Oh no, but it was in self defence. The guards saw the whole thing.”

“But why didn’t they do anything about it?” I asked, Jessie trying to shut me up with a look

“Don’t make anything to obvious, Lissa!” Rihanae demanded.

“They were the victims of a strong spell which left them completely immobile, yet still aware. The guards saw two young women get attacked, but it was unclear as to who the women were. The probably fled from the scene thinking they would get arrested.”

“Well would they?” I asked him; Jessie giving me yet another ‘shut up!' face.

“Of course not, they were the victims of an assault!”

A sigh of relief filled my body.

“Well that’s lucky!” Rihanae said, overjoyed.

“Now if you’ll excuse me I’m retreating to my usual seat.” Said the officer, moving out of his seat and onto another right by the main entrance; pretty pointless to be honest.

“Whew!” Said Jessie; a smile on her face. “Now, back to Leinahtan.”

She was interrupted by a look of realisation on Nerussa’s face.

“What’s wrong?” I asked her.

Nerussa looked at me; concerned.

“I’ve just realised something quite… queer.”

Me and Jessie Looked at each other.

“…Well?” I asked.

“I’m not sure if you want to know.” She said; more concern.

“Just tell us!” Jessie begged. “Please…”

Nerussa looked at me with a worried expression on her face.

“Ok, well I just remembered Jessie mention your father, Nathaniel, correct?”

“… Yes…” I said. I really wanted to know where she was going with this.

“Well the usual way Nathaniel is spelt is N-A-T-H-A-N-I-E-L.” She wrote it down on a piece of paper and handed it to me. “Look.”

She then handed me the piece of paper of which she wrote Leinahtan’s name. I examined both pieces of paper carefully; the horror consumed me. My blood ran cold.

“What? What is it?” Jessie asked.

“Look. L-E-I-N-A-H-T-A-N/N-A-T-H-A-N-I-E-L. Leinahtan is my fathers name spelled in reverse…”

“What?” Jessie said, grabbing the paper from my hand.

“Rihanae?” I said; hoping he had an answer.

“This is strange. But it could be nothing.”

“What do you mean?” I belted at him.

I saw Jessie say ‘She talks to herself all the time’ to Nerussa, who had a perturbed look on her face.

“This is more than just a coincidence, Rihanae!”

“Yes I know. All I’m thinking is that Leinahtan isn’t his real name. He devised it to weaken your spirits when you discovered its origin.”

“You think?” I asked him.

“I’m certain.” Rihanae assured me and, to be honest, I did feel assured.

“Are you okay?” Nerussa asked me.

I looked at her then stood out of my seat, grabbing Jessie.

“We really have to go. Thank you so much for your help. We’ll visit soon.” I said, rushing Jessie out of the Inn without giving Nerussa or the officer a decent goodbye. I just wanted to get out of there.

“Lissa, wait!” Jessie shouted as I began walking away from the Inn. “We need to talk about this.”

“No we don’t.” I said; I could feel the tears welling up behind my eyes.

“Lissa, yes we do, just…”

I continued to walk at a fast pace. Jessie ran up to me and grabbed my arm.

“Lissa, we will get to the bottom of this. I promise.”

I turned to look at her; my tears falling.

“W-Wha- What about if it is him?” I cried. “What if it is my Dad?”

“I don’t know, Liss.”

I bawled some more; barely able to control my emotional state. Jessie grabbed me for a hug.

“It’s okay, Lissa. We’ll solve this. I promise.” She whispered.

What’s going on?

We start the chapter with Lissa supporting Jessie and by the end of the chapter their roles are reversed! Poor Lissa, I hope it isn't her father haunting her and trying to kill her (I sincerely doubt it though).

Lol I really enjoyed the part where Jessie and Rihanae were trying to shut Lissa up while she asks a whole bunch of questions about the death of an old man in the Imperial City.

I think it is a bit strange that the guard called it a murder though.

How clever! As soon as Jesse spelled the name to Nerussa the first time, I figured out what it spelled backwards. As I said, how clever!

That's about the only real clue they have. Very fun episode!

I finally got a little free time to read some of these stories I've been missing !! Great Write !!

mALX: I'm so happy you are reading the journal! hope you are enjoying it!

Acadian: Hehe, I'm glad the revelation of his name wasn't too easy to spot! I also like how the revelation of his name surrounds Leinahtan in even more mystery! thank you for reading .

King Coin: I loved the role reversal to Lissa and Jessie's friendship is interesting. I made an edit to the murder comment as i understand what you ment. thank you.

PREVIOUSLY: during a spot of breakfast in the Wawnet Inn, Lissa and Jessie talk about where Leinahtan could have come from. After a long discussion the barmaid, Nerussa, discoveres something odd about Leinahtan's name; which deeply distresses Lissa.

10. Chapter 4 ~ Journey To Chorrol ~ Part 2

Jessie and I walked to Chorrol in silence. The air was dense due to the negative atmosphere I was giving off. The darkening sky suited my mood completely. I couldn’t help how I was feeling; I’d just discovered that my dad had been trying to kill me.

We don’t know it’s him…

If it was him… why? What have I done to make him want to rid me of my life? I thought he loved me. It was him who told me to explore the world and now he was trying to kill me?

It just doesn’t make a bit of sense.

I walked; confused. I could see Jessie turning her head, trying to start a conversation. She never did try to speak to me. She was smart. I only would have snapped at her if she even try to say one word of encouragement toward me.

I just felt completely miserable. Even the sunset didn’t lift my mood; it was a beautiful thing to look at but I felt nothing. Nothing at all.

And if it wasn’t him, why would my nemesis come up with a clever ruse by using dad’s name backwards? Maybe Rihanae was right; he wanted to break me down when I discovered the origins of ‘Leinahtan’. But that just seemed like so much effort to go to just to wear my spirits thin.

It just doesn’t make SENSE!

I quickened my pace without realising; Jessie struggling to catch up with me. It was all just too much to handle. I didn’t understand what was going on; why anyone would even want to kill me.

It didn’t make sense. Nothing made sense.

I carried on walking; Jessie desperately trying to keep up. I could feel tears forming behind my eyes again; but this time I resisted the urge to have a good cry. I didn’t want sympathy; that would mean that the whole ‘Leinahtan’ thing was really bothering me. I had convinced Jessie that I believed that it wasn’t really my dad and I didn’t want her to think I was lying to her. If I was completely honest I didn’t know what to think. Not any more.

Everything I knew was gone; shattered by a single name. Life was confusing and aggravating enough as it was, now I just didn’t have the strength to carry on pretending that my life was perfect.

Everything had changed.

“Lissa, are you okay?” Jessie asked me; finally catching up.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?”

Jessie looked at me with a worried expression on her face.

“Okay. But you can talk to me; you do know that?”

I nodded and smiled; a forced smile. We continued to walk and before long we ended up at a fort. The first ancient building I had seen in Cyrodiil; well that I had close contact with, anyway.

“Jessie, what is this place?” I asked her, slightly baffled.

“Um… Fort Ash I think.” She replied; sounding less impressed about the structure than myself.

We walked through the walls of the fort where the footpath continued. I slowed my pace to have a really good look at my surroundings. It was absolutely beautiful; amazing, even. I’d seen a lot of things on my travels but forts and castles were my absolute favourite. There was just something about them which made my heart flutter; a true romance. But my mood was soon worried when a khajiit decided to block our path.

“Uh oh…” said Jessie.

I looked at the khajiit; unthreatened. His mouth grew into a freaky, toothy smile; if he was supposed to be scary I wasn’t getting that vibe. I walked towards him; Jessie remaining on the spot.

“You’re money or your life!” The khajiit threatened. I wasn’t intimidated at all; but I decided to play him.

“Please, I have no money…” I told him.

“Well then I’ll just have to take your life instead. Actually, I prefer it that way-“

“Wait! I haven’t finished.” I said. “Rude.”

I reached into my bag a pulled out my purse.

“I haven’t got any money… APART from this.” I said, opening the purse and taking out a few coins. “You want it; don’t you?”

“Lissa, what are you doing?” Jessie said; worried.

“Oh, Lissa. You show him!” Rihanae cheered.

The khajiit highwayman came walking slowly toward me; he looked angry.

“Nobody plays me, little redguard.” He snarled; removing his battleaxe from his backstrap and wielding it ready for attack. I smiled; removing Shatterheart from my back strap.

“You want to fight a lady? Shame on you.” I said.

He ran toward me, yelling at me; swing his battleaxe. I ducked to avoid decapitation and performed a back flip to avoid damage.

“JESSIE! SUMMON!” I commanded; Jessie did, without hesitation.

I ran toward the highwayman and jumped over his head, quickly spinning onced I’d landed and swung Shatterheart, hitting his back. He swung his axe again, and I ducked; kicking his legs in the process. The highwayman stumbled in surprise.

“You are a worthy opponent.” He said, before running toward me again. I could see Jessie behind him trying to control her skeleton summon; to no avail.

“JESSIE! JUST USE YOUR BOW!” I shouted at her.

Before I had a chance to see whether or not she heard me the khajiit was too close for comfort. I unequipped Shatterheart and performed 4 backwards somersaults to avoid him, moving further away from him with each one; which I thought was quite impressive.

He was father away from me now, so I took the opportunity to equip my bow, line up a shot and fire. Perfect headshot.

“Woo!” I screamed in delight. One of my first fights with a person and I won. I did feel remorse that I killed a living being but I had to defend myself. If I regretted every kill I performed I would never go out.

“Well done, Lissa. That was quite impressive!” Rihanae congratulated me.

“Thanks.” I replied; exhausted, but pleased. I saw Jessie run towards me, the skeleton following her. A smile was on her face.

“You were amazing! Sorry I wasn’t any help…” She said.

“It’s fine. He’s been dealt with now.” I said; trying to reassure her. “Let’s go.”

Jessie nodded in agreement as we carried on heading toward Chorrol.

***

We stood outside Weynon Priory; the place where I would find Jeffery. I removed the amulet the Emperor gave me and looked at it.

“Wow, that’s pretty!” Jessie said before looking back at me. “Shall we go in?”

I nodded as I put the amulet back in my bag. The area was beautiful. The greenery was lush and the buildings were quite the eye candy. There was a chapel as well. If I’m honest I didn’t really understand what I priory was exactly; but I knew for a fact that I liked what I saw.
We entered the building which I could only assume was some sort of living area house place. As soon as we entered the building we were approached by a monk; a miserable looking monk.

“I am Prior Maborel. Can I help you with something?” He asked me; before noticing Jessie. “Ah, well if it didn’t little Jessie. How are you doing?”

“I’m good, thank you. This is my friend, Lissa.”

“Ah, a pleasure to meet you.” He said, reaching his hand for mine for a handshake; which I accepted.

“Likewise.” I said.

“So what is your business here?” He asked me; releasing his grip.

“Well I need to talk to Jeffery-“

“Jauffre-” Jessie corrected me.

“Jauffre. Is he here?” I asked.

“Why yes. He is in his office. Up those stairs and to the right hand side.” Maborel smiled.

“Thanks.” I said; smiling back at him. Jessie and I walked up the stairs and to the right; Maborel’s directions were tricky to follow.

Haha, I’m so funny…

“At least you make someone laugh.” Rihanae said.

I ignored his comment and walked towards a desk at the end of the room where an old-ish man sat reading a book. He noticed us stood in front of him and raised his head.

“May I help you?” He asked me.

“Hi Jauffre!” Jessie greeted; excited.

“Well if it isn’t my favourite conjurer. How are you? How nice of you to visit.”

“Actually, we are here on business.” I said before Jessie had a chance to talk. I really didn’t have time for idle chatter.

“And what business could this be?” Jauffre asked me.

I took out the amulet and placed it on Jauffre’s desk; he looked pretty baffled.

“How on Nirn did you get this?” He asked me; slightly bewildered.

“Well…”

***

I managed to tell him everything about the emperor and I; and I was met with an earnest look on his face.

“As unbelievable as your story sounds, I believe you.”

“Really?” I said; slightly baffled that he believed me, a perfect stranger.

“You must now do something for me. You…”

“Waiiiit a second. I was just told to deliver the amulet, and I’ve done that; now I must be off.” I said, turning to leave.

“Okay, but if you do decide to help, you know where I am. The emperor trusted you; that mean’s something Lissa. I trust you’ll make the right decision… in time.”

His attempts at trying to make me feel guilty almost worked; almost. I nodded at him and turned to leave; Jessie hugged Jauffre goodbye then followed.

Me? Why am I so important?

***

We left the residential building and headed toward Chorrol; until I heard something that stopped me in my tracks.

“Can you hear that?” I said to Jessie; rather thrilled

“No, what?” she replied.

I could hear the whinnying of horses.

“THAT!” I shouted; running toward the sound. Next to the building there was a large archway which led to a stable; a stable filled with horses.

“AHHH!” I screamed. I loved horses. When I was younger I could remember my dad and cousin Clesa running the stables. Horses were my passion. I remember playing with Clesa and her friend Tandilwen when I was younger in the stables. I loved horses. I LOVED them!

“Can I ride one?” I asked Jessie.

“Well Maborel lets me ride his paint horse some-”

I didn’t let her finish as I leapt on the only paint horse in the stable; which made it panic. It whinnied quite loudly and tried to knock me off by sudden jolts of it’s back legs.

“Easy…” I said, trying to calm the horse down. It didn’t work. The horse was out of control; running and jolting its limbs everywhere. I was slightly scared; but I couldn’t show the horse that I was panicking. Jessie was shouting after me and the horse ran around the priory; she tried chasing the horse but was highly unsuccessful in catching up.

The horse ran two laps around the priory before ending back up in the stables; jumping over the wall and landing in the sheep pen opposite. Strangely, the sheep seemed to cal the horse down. I saw Jessie run into the pen; she looked very out of breath.

“Are you ok?” she asked me. I looked at her, shock spread across my face.

“Can we go to Chorrol now? Please?”

“Oh Lissa…”

Not quite!

More stupid highway men. Why are they always Khajiit?


Hey, that wasn't even sarcasm!

And it's Jauffre lol

Good job scaring the crap out of that poor horse

I love how having a Guardian Spirit gives Lissa someone to talk to in a potentially lonely world. Although it seems Jessie doesn’t leave too many breaks in the conversation! I’m interested to see where Lissa’s journey takes her next.

I see Lissa's been practicing her Khajiit-dazzling Kung Fu leaps and flips!

Good thinking, Lissa! You agreed to drop the amulet off with Jeffrey and you did so. I think you are wise to avoid mission creep here. He can just send his Blades to go do whatever he has in mind.

And so, after giving Jesse a demonstration in dressage, it's finally to Chorrol methinks.

Chapter 2 review

First of all--WOOT!! Rihanae is Bosmer!!!! Wood elves rule the day!

Anyway, back to the story... I like Rihanae--not just because he's Bosmer... His conversations with Lissa are amusing and it looks like she will definitely have to grow into her spirit guide!

And high five to Lissa for her words to the Dunmer in prison--"Oh, I do hope you're not talking to me..." I was thinking, you tell him, girl! I especially loved the phrase, "I'll have you singing the falsetto..." That one made me lmao...

Lissa is such a great character! Whistling during the escape with the Emperor... Telling him she's crazy... lol--this all seems classic Lissa and it is very fitting.

On a more serious note, I like how at the end of chapter two, Lissa was able to feel something for Captain Renault, and to feel empathy for any family she might have... She may be young and crazy (I'm thinking she wasn't entirely lying to the Emperor... ), she still has the capacity to empathize with other people--this is a wonderful characteristic, and it makes me love Lissa all the more.

Lady Syl: Your comments genuinly warm my heart! I'm so pleased that you are enjoying the journal

Acadian: Lissa is very spry, why not show off her dazzling acrobatics during combat ;P I could just picture Lissa doing it. Haha.

Grits: i'm so pleased that you are reading! Yes, having a GS does have it's upsides, but the no privicy part will get to Lissa eventually, i'm sure

King Coin: i'm glad you enjoyed the chapter! lol, it seem's that just because Lissa likes horses doesn't mean they like her! haha.

PREVIOULSY: Lissa and Jessie make it to Weynon Priory and deliever tha Amulet of Kings; but Lissa leaves before Jauffre can make a proposal. Lissa sees a horse and takes the oportunity to have a good old ride; scaring it half to death in the process.

11. Chapter 4 ~ Journey to Chorrol ~ Part 3

After the drama involving Maborel’s horse, Jessie and I headed toward Chorrol; of which the journey took no more than half an hour. We walked toward the city; surrounded by large walls and lush greenery. We walked past a stable where chestnut horses were sold.

I think after what happened I should stay away from horses… for now anyway.

We continued to walk until we reached the large door leading into the city.

“Why, hello Jessie!” greeted one of the guards stood upright by the large door. “Welcome home.”

Jessie smiled at him and the two guards at each end of the door pushed it open; revealing the most beautiful sight I had ever had the privilege of witnessing.

“Wow.” I said in amazement. I had never been to Chorrol before; and the first impression I got was bewildering. Opposite the entrance doors stood a large statue of a man holding an injured man who was lying on the floor; or he was dead, I wasn’t to sure. To the left was, what I could only assume, was the main residential area as old looking houses stood erect in a large cluster. To the right was a path leading to the castle; which I knew I had to visit at some point.

“So, where to now?” I asked Jessie.

“Follow me; we’re going to the mages guild.” She replied. It was about time we got here as I wanted to learn a conjuration spell.

I can’t wait to summon something! I wonder if it’s possible to summon a handsome redguard…

I pondered that thought as Jessie led me to the guild. Walking up the path behind the statue we ended up at a large oak tree; houses and the two guilds stood in a circular fashion around the oaken landmark. I continued to stand looking amazed. It was incredible how a town so unimpressive could be so gorgeous.

“This truly is a beautiful town” Rihanae said.

“It really is…” I said; before changing the subject. “Hey, earlier you replied to something I was thinking about. You can hear my thought’s now?”

“I could always hear your thoughts; I just thought it would be better not to tell you. The things I have heard are not for the ears of others.”

I stood embarrassed at Rihanae’s revelation; but eventually I shook it off. It’s only me that can hear anything he had to say so I wasn’t to bothered by it.

Not long after mine and Rihanae’s conversation, Jessie and I were approached by a friendly looking argonian; well as friendly as an argonian can look anyway.

“Hello you must be new in town. How are you?” she asked me; at least I think she was a she. Argonian’s confused me.

“I’m very well, thank you.” I replied; very politely

“Hey Dar-Ma, how are you? Hows your mother?” Jessie asked her.

“We are very well that you Jessie. It’s nice to see you home.” She said with a smile.

She then turned back to me and reached for my hand, which I took.

“Well I just wanted to introduce myself. I love meeting new people!” she smiled.

“Haha, I can tell! Well it was a pleasure to meet you Darla.”

“Dar-Ma.” She said kindly.

“Oh… is that how you say thank you or something?” I asked.

"Oh, Lissa..."

“No, her name is Dar-Ma.” Jessie whispered to me.

“OH! I’m really sorry! Me and names don’t get on very well!” I apologized; highly embarrassed.

“It’s fine…” Dar-Ma said; clearly waiting for me to reveal my name.

“Oh sorry! I’m Lissa. Cristenn.”

“Well it was a pleasure to meet you, Miss Cristenn!” she said. She nodded at me; then Jessie, before heading off down the path. I turned to Jessie.

“I feel so embarrassed!”

“Don’t. It was a simple mistake.” She laughed. I could feel myself blushing as we continued to the guild. I looked at the floor to hide my shame; resulting in me crashing into someone; or something.

“I’m so sorry.” I said, looking at who I bumped into. A female altmer. An angry looking female altmer.

“Why don’t you look where you are going!” she said, bitterly.

Just as I was about to say something to her Jessie pulled me away from confrontation.

“Don’t dignify her with a response. Earana is a nasty piece of work.” She said, dragging me into the mages guild.

We entered the door to be greeted by another argonian.

“Ah, Jessie, I thought you’d be back eventually.” He said. He turned to me. “And you brought a friend?”

“Yes Teekneeus, this is Lissa. She wants to learn something in conjuration.”

“Then you have come to the right place!” He told me. He stood at my side and put his hand on my back, guiding me and Jessie to a desk at the end of the hall.

“So what are you wanting to learn, little Lissa?” he asked me.

“Anything really.” I said.

“You two talk; I’m going to find my dad.” Said Jessie, heading towards a staircase leading to the second floor.

“Now Lissa you do understand the anything you learn will be minor? Am I correct in assuming magic isn’t your main field?”

“Yeah. I mean no, it’s not. I’m an apprentice in Restoration but that’s it.”

Teekneeus looked at me with a sigh.

“Well your best bet it to seek out Alberic Litte. He may be able to teach you something suitable for your current level.”

“Um, okay.” I said. I felt awkward after Jessie left me alone in a place where I didn’t know anyone.

“Wait here, I shall see if I can find him for you.” Teekneeus said, patting me on the shoulder before leaving me stood like a loser while he searched.

“I hope your expectations aren’t too high, Lissa.” Said Rihanae. For the first time I was truly glad for his company.

What do you mean?

“What I mean is that you are barely even a novice in the form of conjuration. You won’t be able to summon anything until you are at least at apprentice level.”

Ahh, that sucks!

I was slightly disappointed as I was really excited about summoning a hunky hunk; but it seems that wasn’t likely to happen.

Well what will I be able to do then?

“I’m not sure. You may possibly learn a binding armour spell, but I’m not to sure.”

That’s helpful!

I was sarcastic, of course. Eventually Teekneeus came back to me with a Breton man; who had this creepy smile on his face.

“Lissa, this is Alberic Litte.” Teekneeus said; I was quite amazed that I could remember his name to be honest.

“Hello Alby! I hear you can teach me something!” I said to him.

“I sure can!” He said, excited. “I’ve thought of something perfect for you!”

***

“BOOTS!” I said to the barmaid of the Grey Mare.

“That sounds disappointing.” She said, laughing.

“I don’t need to summon boot when mine are perfectly fine.”

“Well look on the bright side; you learnt something in conjuration!” She said. I looked at her and grinned. I liked this girl.

“Yeah you’re right. I sound like an ungrateful child, don’t I?”

“No, you were disappointed. It’s acceptable.” She said, smiling a dazzling set of perfect teeth. I was jealous.

“I’m Lissa.” I said.

“Emfrid.” She replied.

“Might I just say that you are insanely beautiful!” I informed her. “What is your secret?”

“Haha, mainly water and lot’s of vegetables!” she joked.

We laughed together for a little while, but I began to notice a slight hint of sadness in Emfrid’s eyes.

“Hey. You okay?” I asked her; slightly concerned.

“Yes, it’s nothing.” She said.

“Come on, tell me.” I persisted, “us girls have gotta stick together!”

She looked at me and smiled that beautiful smile again. I was envious of her beauty; only slightly.

“Well there is this man and I quite like him but he is hardly ever in here.”

“Does this man have a name?”

“Well, yes, but I’m not sure I should say anything…”

“Look, I’m new in town. Don’t know a soul. You can tell me. I won’t know the guy.”

She smiled at me again and then she leaned over the bar slightly to whisper in my ear.

“His name is…”

Suddenly the door to the Grey Mare burst open to reveal Jessie.

“Where have you been?” she asked me; she sounded a bit angry.

“To Morrowind, why?” I replied sarcastically. Jessie didn’t look impressed.

“That’s not funny, I’ve been really worried!” she panicked.

I looked at her, confused. I had no idea why she would be worried.

“Why were you worried?”

“Because Earana is after you!”

“WHAT?” Said Rihanae.

“What? Why?” I said; slightly surprised.

“She is paranoid that you want to kill her. She heard a rumour that someone is hunting her down and she assumes it is you because you’re new in town.”

“That’s rubbish.” I said. I looked at Emfrid who had the same look of worry on her face that Jessie did.

“I would leave, Lissa. Really. Earana is slightly on the… crazy side.”

“Wait this is all too much. What is going on?”

“She will have the whole city believing that you are an assassin.”

“WAIT A MINUTE! I haven’t done anything and now I’m being accused of being an assassin?”

Jessie sat down on the stool next to me.

“No, all I’m saying is that you should leave before she starts talking. That’s all.”

“But I’ve only been here five minutes…”

I gave up. Jessie wasn’t going to give up until I had accepted her pleas for my exit.

“Fine. I need to make a start on going to Anvil anyway.”

A smile spread across Jessie’s face. She grabbed me for an embrace.
“YAY! Goodness knows what I would do if something had happened to you!” she said. I stood up. “What you need to do is just slip out quietly. Don’t draw attention to yourself and DON’T talk to Earana.”

I wasn’t happy.

“Fine.” I turned to Emfrid. “It was nice meeting you.”

She smiled and nodded. I gave Jessie a hug goodbye. I didn’t want to leave on a bad note; even if I was still confused about what was going on.

“I’ll come back.” I said to her.

“You’d better!” She replied.

***

I left the Grey Mare and walked toward the main gate, thinking about that was happening. I couldn’t get my head around what was going on.

“Earana is more than likely just paranoid. It’ll all blow over in a couple of days.” Rihanae told me.

But I just don’t understand. Why me? AGAIN!

“I don’t know. Just keep walking.”

I did as Rihanae told me and whilst I was walking I saw something. Earana. She was sat by the statue.

All she did was look at me; smiling.

I walked over to her.

“What is your problem!” I asked her.

“You are, my dear.” She told me; a creepy glee to her voice.

“Why, what have I ever done to you?”

A pause. She stood up and towered over me.

“It’s not what you’ve done; it’s who you are.” She said. She then walked past me and headed toward the Grey Mare.

“What do you mean?” I shouted after her. “WHAT DO YOU MEAN!”

“Lissa you need to leave. I don’t like this.”

Me neither.

“I suggest taking a carriage and getting to Anvil as soon as possible.”

I nodded in agreement before heading toward the gates.

“And Lissa?” Rihanae said.

Yeah?

“…make sure you pay for it this time; okay?” He said. I didn’t know whether he was just giving me banter or actually being serious.

But I laughed anyway.

Interesting end to the chapter. I was expecting Earana to attack not just walk away. Now I think she is another victim of possession. The name Leinahtan didn't come up at least. She doesn't need that right now.