@mALX: Yep, she’s in there! That one’s in my desktop background rotation. Thank you on the summery, I warned you that video was pretty boring.

I love being able to show things like that for Aravi, there hasn’t been as much opportunity to do it. Thanks mALX!

SubRosa: Oh, I see. Balgruuf’s the one pocketing the coin eh? No wonder he’s always in such a good mood.

Missed the second vid? That was the good one!

Delphine’s kind of changed her job title to suit her own needs. Aravi was beyond furious about both that demand and then the you’re not welcome here. As you said, it was her blood that opened the temple and this beyotch (lol) just demands she leave? The Blades are truly gone.

I liked the black retexture because it kind of goes with the Dawnguard armor that Kharjo is wearing, but I would prefer it to be a standalone unique armor rather than all the armors looking like that. Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: Buffy will have to work on Aravi a little bit, get her into something stylish and get her to try some shoes!

The dragon has been a lot more helpful than those Blades have been, but even then, she wouldn’t lift a weapon against someone that has offered her nothing but peace. It would have been pretty satisfying to act on those impulses, but Aravi’s going to have to just leave them and never come back.

I love how the light on her scar really changes how visible it is. Sometimes you can’t see it and other times it’s very prominent. Thanks Acadian!

@Grits: Aravi almost lost it in there when Delphine told her to get out. I was glad for the opportunity to show Aravi really angry like that.

I personally love the aurora one. Choose that one. Thanks Grits!

#####################################

Aravi has to release her monster outside of Rorikstead.

8:19

#####################################

Screens (yes, more auroras)

Look up…

Brilliant

I’ve been showing you lots of retextures of the elven armor, so here’s the standard

I love the way she runs in the wolfy form! Oh how cool, the wolf didn't attack her! This picking the people up and popping their heads off animation is absolutely wild! Very cool! Aravi lucked out with an open door entrance and exit for that cave, nothing needing activation. One thing I like about Skyrim is these automatic entrances. New Vegas had some, they freaked me out till I got used to it, lol. I wondered if the same wolf that let her pass in beast form would attack her on her return. Awesome Vid !!

Brilliant is my favorite screen. I like that version of Elven armor best, just like the goldish look of it! All are great screens - Love this update!

Now Aravi lets loose her fury. I do not blame her! It is too bad the game does not let you at least kill Delphine.

I might have asked before, but I forgot. When you are in wolf form, do regular wolves attack you? It seems like they should be on your side.

Ewww, she popped that bandit lookout like a zit!

What skeever attacks a werewolf! Even in cat form Aravi had no trouble umbrella seller-slapping that pest.

Poor Aravi, all curled up alone on the tundra. Moving the camera from her to the moon was excellent!

Look up is probably my fave of the three pics. I love the detail that the Khajiit faces have in Skyrim. I think the golden version of the elven armor looks best on Aravi. It goes better with her fur color, especially when she is bathed in the firelight like that.

Dawn on the Seven Thousand Stairs
This here was nice. I love the orange scenery behind her, and I'm digging that armor. Somewhat digging it -_-
You know how I feel about the DG.

Where’s the ring? Or is this a knighting? (This is a joke, not a marriage announcement)
You had me there. Yes, you did. So Aravi has Kharjo in the Friend Zone, huh? Poor Kharjo!

Night sky on the Throat of the World
Behind Aravi are the two moons, and the beautiful shine of ultra light! Highest Peak, eh. She must feel like a Queen of the World as she stands at the throat of it!

A warlock is about to die
Power! Unlimited power! He's still no match for our feline adventurer. This screenshot was particularly great because of the "cinematic" feel to it.

Durnehviir and Magnus (Durnehviir is the dragon)
[/quote]Durnehviir is basking in Magnus' rays, I bet. Wouldn't you if you were stuck for countless centuries upon centuries in a realm of no sunlight? Good pictures!


Finally, some screenshots

Silhouette
Arassassini? Is that you?

Khajiit and wolf
Nice! Checkout that scar, too! This was a great screenie!

another elven retexture (I still prefer the golden vanilla armor)
[/quote]She looks great in that armor!

Rage! Yes! Unleash the Beast for the glories of Lord Hircine! You'd get a bone or two as a bonus in the afterlife!

@mALX: I love the way werewolves run too! They are faster than a horse as well like that. That kill move is absolutely brutal and she was doing a lot of them like that. I don’t remember if she had to pass the wolf again or not. I think she came back a different way, but I can’t really remember, this video was made quite a while ago. I thought for sure you would have liked ‘Look up’ the best just because it’s a close shot. Thanks mALX!

@SubRosa: Even if she could kill Delphine, she wouldn’t have. She’s definitely not having anything to do with the Blades again however.

Wolves won’t attack a werewolf. Aravi didn’t attack that one either. The long run didn’t cool her down unfortunately for that lookout, or anyone else inside that cave. That rat sure was ballsy attacking a werewolf like that!

Glad you liked the moon shots.

‘Look up’ is my favorite too. I like the golden version too, so I’ve just removed all the retextures. The black one did go well with Kharjo’s DG armor. Thanks SubRosa!

@DE: Woohoo! You’re back!

Aravi did start in Cyrodiil as a vampire hunter, so it was natural for her to choose the Dawnguard. Plus her personality wouldn’t make for a good vampire. Lol, Kharjo hasn’t been friend zoned; Aravi just has her own pace and cannot be pushed.

Glad you liked the werewolf rampage! Finally the picture you found early is up! Thanks DE!

###################################

Aravi was fuming still. She and Kharjo had made the journey from Skyhaven Temple to the edge of Rorikstead largely in silence. Night had fallen nearly an hour ago and the air chilled quickly as a cold breeze built from the north, blowing over the treeless plane. Hunger stabbed at her belly painfully and she knew Kharjo must be hungry as well. Unfortunately, getting something to eat now would be a waste, at least for her. Before entering the village, Aravi stopped. She handed Kharjo their money and said, “Here, get us a room at the inn. I need to hunt. Alone. I’ve gone far too long, I almost lost it when that…” Aravi bared her teeth, “… BlTCH told us to get out.”

Kharjo nodded and accepted the gold. “One room?”

“Yes. I’ll be out all night.” With that, she spun on her heel and sprinted the way they had come.

~~~~

Kharjo knew what she meant to do this night. She was going to let her monster out. He grimaced at the thought. He’d seen firsthand what an angry werewolf was capable of once, it had made him sick. And Aravi is beyond angry. She insisted she go alone for her transformations. Kharjo knew he would not be safe anywhere near her and part of him never again wanted to see the carnage wrought by the monster. However, another part of him wanted to be there with her despite that. He remembered how sick she was after changing back. What must it be like to come back and see what you have done?

He pulled his cloak tighter as a gust of wind hit him, and increased his pace. He was eager to get out of the cold and into the warm inn. As he was reaching the door, the wind subsided briefly. He heard a howl in the distance, and a chill ran down his spine to the tip of his tail. It had nothing to do with the wind.

Kharjo bought a room and sat by the fire with a warm bowl of stew and a tankard of mead. His mind went over the events of the past couple of days as he ate. He was impressed that Aravi had gone as long as she did without letting her beast out. He had encouraged her to go as long as she can without letting it out, but now he was thinking that wasn’t such a good idea.

After leaving the Greybeards at High Hrothgar, they traveled most of the day, going double pace so they could reach the Blades quickly. Aravi was counting on their help in confronting Alduin again. Instead, the Blades demanded she kill Paarthanax. Kharjo snorted. They should be worried about the World Eater, not the one that sits on a mountain and bothers no one. When Aravi refused, they told her to get out. This one was angry yes, but Aravi was another matter. Saying she was angry is like saying Winterhold is chilly. Kharjo was actually worried that she was going to transform then and there. She almost did lose it. Perhaps he shouldn’t encourage her to go so long without changing.

Sighing, he drained his mug, and brought his dishes to the innkeeper. He went to his room and closed the door. Stripping off his clothes, save his loincloth, he got into bed and pulled the rough blankets and furs over himself. A stretch brought a groan of pleasure before his consciousness faded away to sleep.

Kharjo roused in the dark when something moved his blankets and lay against him. He realized Aravi had crawled into bed with him. What is she doing…? Her fur was cold and damp, and her back pressed against his side on the narrow bed. He started to drift back to sleep, too tired to question her. His final thought before sleep took him again was that she smelled of fresh water, crisp air, and faintly of blood.

~~~~

Kharjo woke a few hours later. The first thing he noticed was that Aravi had an arm draped over his chest. The second thing he noticed was that he had an arm wrapped around her, holding her close. Third, he noticed that they were both in their underwear. Surprised and more than a little hopeful, he searched his memories of last night. No, we didn’t, he thought with a little regret.

Aravi was still sound asleep, her forehead resting against his shoulder. Kharjo laid there for some time and just enjoyed the touch of her against him. He felt her chest rise and fall against his side, and the air blow lightly over his fur with each with each breath she took. It felt so right having her with him like this.

When they at first met, he was attracted to her, but she didn’t show interest in him. As they traveled together, their relationship strengthened and they became very close friends, but she still didn’t show interest in him. He began to wonder if she was perhaps attracted to other women, but she didn’t cultivate any relationships with them either. It wasn’t until they had talked in Winterhold that he understood why she was the way she was. He still hoped that her experience as a slave in Morrowind didn’t completely extinguish any desire for a physical relationship.

He sighed and lay for a few minutes more with her, wishing the moments could last for hours. Then he began the awkward task of climbing out of bed without waking her. He looked at her as he dressed, confirming that she was still asleep. Then, he slipped out of the room and quietly closed the door behind him.

~~~~

Aravi woke up slowly. Hunger gnawed at her belly and her limbs felt weak from the work they had done without the nourishment they needed. Still, she did not rise for some time. The beast had feasted the night before, but she rejected its meal as she always did. She remembered the smell and taste of the blood of her victims, and she remembered enjoying it. Some of them were not even dead before she tore into their flesh. She started to feel sick again, and a wave of self-loathing washed over her. Is this better than being a vampire? she asked herself, not for the first time. I think I’ve made a mistake. I can’t win this fight, she thought bleakly. (That's a picture, click it!)

She lay there for a while and forced her thoughts away from the werewolf. There was early morning when she got back. She had returned sooner than she expected, utterly exhausted, and crawled into bed with Kharjo. She felt embarrassed that she had done such a thing. She peeked under the covers and felt a small measure of relief. At least I’m not naked. But what was I thinking? she asked herself, even though she knew the answer.

When she returned, she guessed it to be around three or four in the morning. Nobody was awake. Drained, hungry, cold, and still damp, she found the room he rented easily enough. She would be lying if she claimed she didn’t find him attractive. After settling in next to him, she’d fallen asleep almost instantly, his warm body taking away the chill of the night and making her feel at ease and safe.

I… don’t know what to do. I’ve never felt like this before. She was sure that he cared about her, and she cared about him as well. What do I say? What does he think of me? What is he going to expect of me? She couldn’t answer any of those questions.What do I want?

##################################

Art by Julienya

That artwork is amazing, the struggle Aravi is having with the beast devouring her as much as her victims - hugely wonderful art by Julienya! Awesome imagery!

This writing was huge, and I loved the way you took us from Kharjo's thoughts to Aravi's! Kharjo's clearly spelled out he is struggling just as Aravi is with that beast within her. He hates the beast, it sickens him - but loves Aravi and is having trouble correlating in his mind how to handle those two polar opposites. Maybe that's helping him wait it out till Aravi makes the first moves.

I got a huge kick out of him waking up and wondering if they had - then Aravi doing the same later, ROFL !!!

Awesome write!

Aravi is hungry, after eating all those bandits?

Oh, I see. Her bandit-eating expedition happened after that little exchange with Kharjo outside of Rorikstead. That makes sense.

Kharjo's musings in Rorikstead were wonderful. Especially when he wondered what it must be like to return to human cat form after the werewolf rampage was over.

They should be worried about the World Eater, not the one that sits on a mountain and bothers no one.
This sums up the choice between the Blades and Parth quite succinctly.

The awkward morning after was nicely done. Even though there was no sex of course, Kharjo's realization of the unconscious strengthening of their relationship was still excellent. In spite of everything else, the two of them have done nothing but grow closer.

And finally Aravi herself returns. It is good that her conscience is wrestling with the werewolf inside her, rather than embracing it. I get the feeling that she might decide to get the cure soon. Perhaps after the business with Alduin is over. The pic of her warring natures was wonderful, right down to the wraps on Aravi's feet!

Finally, her doubts about her relationship with Kharjo were priceless as well. The eternal question of "what do they really think and feel about me?" combined with "what do I do?" That makes Aravi such an easy character to identify with, as everyone has to deal with these questions.


nits:
As he was reaching the door, the wind subsided briefly and he heard a howl in the distance and a chill ran down his spine and into his tail.
This is a really long sentence. You might consider breaking it up into several, smaller sentences. Perhaps like so:
Kharjo reached the door, and the wind subsided briefly. He heard a howl in the distance, and a chill ran down through his spine all of the way to the tip of his tail.

Taking the wolf out for a bloody spin!

Lovely screens with the beautiful night sky lights.

Your fiction skill is still top notch and I really enjoyed your written piece.

‘It felt so right having her with him like this.’
Awww.

SubRosa nailed how nicely you displayed Aravi’s confused and self-doubting feelings regarding Kharjo. She’s very new to this love stuff. And I see she’s also having serious second thoughts about the werewolf.

Look Up is definitely my favorite, what a sweet expression. After seeing all of the retextures, I think I do like the vanilla best on Aravi. That golden light really suits her, and it’s a beautiful contrast to her furry brutality in beast form.

That was a great wolf run out on the tundra, and then the bloody rampage was tremendous fun to watch! Kill cams galore! Can Aravi remember how people beg for their lives? I hope not. It’s a heck of a thing to transform back with a skeever gnawing on your leg. That thing was no match for Aravi claws, either. Silly skeever. I like the way you showed time passing with the moons crossing the sky.

After reading your wonderful story piece, I understood why Aravi sprinted back to Rorikstead in the video as well as sprinting away in the beginning of the writing. Kharjo’s thoughts about wanting to be there for Aravi followed by the wolf howl as he reached the door was one of those crystal- clear character moments. Beautifully done!

Love the artwork. What a great representation of Aravi’s struggle. I got way behind here for a while, and catching up has been a feast!

@mALX: Glad you like the artwork, and I love how you phrased that. The beast devouring her as much as her victims. You are absolutely right about Kharjo’s feelings, I’m glad I got that through. Thanks mALX!

@SubRosa: Yep, I did a little time hopping. I thought that it made most sense in this order as opposed to posting the chapter, and then the video.

The morning after was something I wanted to show, and I’m glad you liked it. I rewrote that part several times to show how close they had grown, and to show a definite boundary that Aravi was still not ready to cross yet. Aravi’s doubts at the end were to illustrate those boundaries and to show that she’s looking at them.

I love how that picture turned out, it’s exactly what I wanted to show the turmoil within her.

I’ve changed that sentence you pointed out. Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: What a bloody spin it was. I am very pleased you enjoyed the written part. Aravi has a lot of conflict within her. Thanks Acadian!

@Grits: That is an interesting point you bring up with the contrast of her armor and her wolf. I hadn’t actually thought of that.

Ugh, I hope she doesn’t remember the begging. She’s tortured enough.

So glad you enjoyed my written part. Kharjo wants to be there for Aravi, but there’s no way he can with the wolf. It will kill him.

Glad you like Aravi’s picture! Thanks Grits!

######################################

Instead of traveling back to Whiterun, Aravi and Kharjo decide to turn west and travel to a city Aravi has not yet seen.

9:33

Oh, its that spot on the road west of Rorikstead. That place is always good for 4-5 bandits. The last archery kill cam of Aravi's was excellent!

Aravi is wearing her golden elven armor I see. She and Kharjo make quite a pair in their golden and ebony attire.

I see that one Stormcloak chick is still harassing Aravi. Who put that bug up her butt? Whoa, who is that they are slugging it out with up the road? Is that Imperials? I think Aravi did the best thing by just leaving. The way those cloaks are acting, they don't deserve her help.

Liars Retreat. That one does not sound familiar. I never got around too much in the Reach. I never liked it much over there. Uh oh, Falmer. Wow, all of those arrow shots, and Aravi stayed hidden. Of course by the time they did get up to her, Kharjo was ready with his wolf! Now that was timing. Of course once Aravi's twin swords come out, no fight last for much longer!

Kharjo down to one knee? Uh oh... But Aravi saves the say with a kill cam! W00T!

Aravi tried slugging it out with that one Falmer? Oh noes! Get those swords out!

I just love how those bandits taunt you right before they die.

I love the issues Aravi had with her Beast. And Kharjo's pespective on her monstrous side was well written, and understandable from a non-Lycanthrope's perspective. It all comes down to points of view, however. Ah, that's the picture I found back in September, isn't it? Hehee.

Oh and Aravi wondering what Kharjo must think of her condition? I love the internal questionnaire she had at the end. I wonder if she will end up curing herself and forsake the Hircine-given gift that was bestowed upon her. The more she let's it out, the easier it will become for her. The more she holds it in, however, the more her urges for bloodshed will come out and thus, she might risk losing her mind. Toughie. Either embrace the natural ways of the wolf and eat to survive, or try to find a cure and thus lose the power(and potentially contract vampirism! We all know she doesn't want that).

Lore-nits: In ES, we can weave our own lore into the tales, so don't even think much of this tiny thing. I guess when it comes to Lycanthropes, Companion strain or not, werewolves don't feel drained upon reverting to regular form IF they kill someone. But hey, I guess she must have felt that way after rampaging through the night, and only felt the effects of being confined in a regular form.

All in all, I love Aravi and the fact that you don't shy away from the condition she has to put up with.

I just love that area. All kinds of craziness can happen, and there’s always a bunch of bandits to fight. Aravi had the right idea, let those soldiers fight their own skirmish. Like they said, it doesn’t concern her!

Liar’s Retreat is a new one for me. Whoa, Falmer? I was not expecting them so close to the surface! That was an awesome display of bow and blade by Aravi. Kharjo took a knee?! Yikes, those Falmer are tough!

Oh, now the story unfolds. Those bandits were idiots! Khajiit look nothing like Falmer! How funny, they piled up the baskets to barricade the door. What a great view of Aravi taking in the view at the end.

This was a fun trip through an interesting spot. I know one Nord chick who would have stripped that slutty dress right off the dead body, given it a quick swish in the river, and called it clean enough. Aravi has far too much class to do such a thing!

You can tell Aravi wants to sort of light into those Stormcloaks, but prudently moves on. . . .

Kharjo says, “We have found a cave. I don’t think there are warm fires and friendly faces inside.”

So how does Aravi respond to his wise counsel? She puts on her little blue feeties of quiet and says, “C’mon.” Then they find. . .

Eeep! Falmer. Nice to see Kharj using his spirit wolf. Why did Aravi use her fists on that one Falmer?

And a nice pensive view out over Skyrim at the end. Very nice!

That nasty Stormcloak woman always makes me want to draw swords, but like Aravi did - gotta back off or you might get on the wrong side of some faction, lol.

That section of road there gave me a distinct impression of a very similar spot in Fallout 3 just south of the caged Behemoth in that railyard/Raider camp. The lay of the land/road in that spot was almost exactly the same as this section - just gray instead of the brown FO3 had there. In FO3 that section was like a crossroads for random encounters just like this was (with the same number of enemies, just different names for them).

While I watched that beginning I wondered if some of the landlay had been reused and just plunked differently named enemies into the spawn points in the same numbers. (Raiders = Bandits / Slavers = Stormcloaks / Regulaters or Talon Company = Imperial Army)

I loved seeing Aravi turn around and watch them getting attacked right afterward - and I heard the dying scream of that hateful woman, too. Ah, justice!

Kharjo tried to warn Aravi before entering the cave, lol. That was really cool, and I wondered if they didn't pick that scripting up from Vilja's mod! She is the only follower I ever saw do that, so pulled her script to see how CDCooley/Emma did it. CDCooley is pure genius!

I was really surprised to see Aravi try fists against Falmer - they are tough! Was that ring she was wearing the Pugilist?

And Kharjo's wolf howling after a kill - Love that !!!

Really Awesome vid, and great update !!!

@SubRosa: That’s always a fun spot to pass. It would be nice if the ambush was a little less predictable after you pass it once, but you know you’ll get a fight going there.

The Stormcloaks were fighting some Thalmor. Aravi doesn’t like either party, but at least when she passes a Thalmor patrol on the road, they don’t threaten her.

Aravi did me proud with those arrows! I recall that cave being a nightmare though. The Falmer were very tough in that first room grouped up like that. Many reloads.

Lol, had to see how effective those claws were, or in this case ineffective. Thanks SubRosa!

@DE: It all comes down to the point of view. Exactly! Aravi is not ‘growing’ into her curse. I’m calling it a curse because that is what it is to Aravi. Someone else would certainly see it as a blessing. Aravi accepted it without really understanding it. Kharjo’s first experience with her monster was not pretty and that colored his opinion permanently.

About the lore nit: I’m not following established lore, I haven’t even looked at it. This is how Aravi experiences it: She can change at will with one caveat. The longer she holds it in, the more she needs to let it out. She becomes restless and quick to anger holding it in. While she is changed, it is almost like another mind is controlling her and she has tons of reckless energy. When she turns back, she feels all that fatigue at once. The kills that she eats while in wolf form make her sick and she vomits until all the meat and blood is out of her. That takes a lot out of her.

Thanks DE!

@Grits: Craziness is right! I have another a little later that shows some more. That cave was very dicey, lots of reloading.

Yeah… Aravi isn’t going to do that. She wouldn’t even think of it. No rat meals, no bloody dresses. Thanks Grits!

@Acadian: One of these days, if she is in a bad enough mood, she is going to kill some Cloaks. I love your portrayal of Aravi responding to Kharjo!

She used her claws because, well it was the last one and Kharjo was there with his axe. She wanted to see what she could do and it turned out to be not much. Thanks Acadian!

@mALX: Aravi doesn’t want the problems that making herself an enemy of the Stormcloaks would bring, like difficulty traveling through some holds. It sure is difficult to not fight at times…

I’m sure the encounters in both games were programmed by the some person/team.

Lol. After they threatened her, she isn’t going to lift a finger for them. She was wearing a ring that either increased her swords damage, her light armor skill, or one that increased her health regeneration rate. I don’t remember which one she was using at the time. Thanks mALX!

##########################

Welcome to Markarth. This can’t get much worse can it?

5:07

Aravi looked so tiny on that bridge. It's a looong way down!

Oh look, a dragon above the waterfall. And there he is again. Looks like the welcoming committee is out for Aravi. Looks like she made it to Markarth ok though. I wonder, is this her first time inside the city?

I guess it is her first time. So there are no Forsworn in the city? That is a relief to hear. I guess Aravi and Kharjo were just imagining that assassin that they double-teamed. Thank goodness that the city guard has it all under control!

I love it when Aravi takes me on a ‘walkabout’, and the start of this vid was a beaut! That was a gorgeous big waterfall, well, ‘cept for the dragon.

Just when I thought the lighting when they arrived was overexposed, sure enough Aravi dispelled(?) her night eye(?) to get a better look at the entrance to that city. It was a confusing friend or foe situation when they first entered the city. Thankfully, Kharjo’s cat instincts drew him right away to the bad guy and Aravi slipped in for the kill cam. Neat! I love how companions and summons are never confused about who is friend or foe. Lol.

Okay, I looked up the Forsworn on UESPwiki.

Silver Blood Inn – neat name!

What a neat view to open with! There’s no doubt where they are. Mountains and mist, rivers and waterfalls. And Forsworn. Oh, and dragons.

The dragons can really surprise you in the Reach, popping up over the mountains like that. The cliff side and the river would have made a neat little trap to catch some Khajiit in, if that one had been paying attention. No wonder Aravi was nervous.

When Aravi and Kharjo arrived in the dark, I thought how relieved they must have been to finally get there safely after that rainy trip. Then of course far from a warm welcome.

Ah, the Silver Blood Inn, home of one of my favorite NPCs. Hopefully Vorstag will not give Aravi the creepy glare the way Stenvar did!

That kill cam worked perfectly with Aravi springing into action, and the aftermath came across so well. I hope in the morning they get some sunshine!

I was getting height sick when Aravi was crossing that bridge by zig-zagging toward the edge! Maxical would def have fallen over the edge accidentally. Nice waterfall! Urk, dragon.

Markarth. Love my house there, hate the city. Some of the people are nice though, one died and left me their inheritance, lol. That poor woman died in my game, didn't know what was going on, no good in melee, lol.

My favorite part of this vid was Aravi scooting along trying not to be seen by the dragon - LOVED that !!! Great update!

Ah, Markarth! The High Rock styled land! For a second there I thought she was getting into a fight with the dragon!

But backstabbing would-be assassins work too! I foresee a Forsworn Fiasco! Hehe! Yes, Aravi is going to deal with some of the dangerous men and women of the Reach, eh?

I have to confess, I LOVE their armor in the game. Savage, barbaric esque! Good update, too!

@SubRosa: I had to show that bridge. Better to sneak by the dragon if she can. It’s not always possible though.

No Forsworn? Huh, I could have sworn that guy murdering people and bellowing had something to do with them. Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: Sorry I didn’t tell you about the Forsworn.

I don’t know, if the dragon wasn’t intent on eating Khajiit, I think it would be gorgeous too. Yep, it was night when Aravi arrived at the city and she had to let her eyes adjust ( ) to the bright light near the gates. Thanks Acadian!

@Grits: The Reach is very easy to recognize, isn’t it? I’d like the area better if it wasn’t so difficult to get around in. A horse is almost required.

Yeah, Aravi’s had a few surprises with dragons in that area. Lucky that one was happy to just fly around.

You remember Stenvar! I don’t think Aravi’s ever going to talk to him. I can’t remember if Aravi talks to Vorstag or not. You will have to see. Thanks Grits!

mALX: Aravi had no idea what was going on, so that woman died. Sorry you weren’t feeling good.

I wish Markarth was a bit more pleasant, the architecture of the city is stunning! I don’t think Aravi will ever spend long there however.

Aravi doesn’t want to fight every dragon. Glad you enjoyed that! Thanks mALX!

@DE: Best to avoid the dragons in this land. You’ve got it; Aravi’s going to get into a huge mess here soon. I like the Forsworn armor too. Aravi wrinkles her nose at it though. Maybe we’ll get her into it sometime yet. Thanks DE!

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Aravi read the note she was given in the marketplace after she killed the murderer.
This is what is said:

Meet me at the Shrine of Talos.

Aravi looks around the city, and then meets the man from the market.

7:54

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Screens!

Home

Sunrise

Death

Healing

Kharjo’s helmet

I'm glad to learn there is a way to turn off that man outside the abandoned house - I took to avoiding passing him because he kept hooking me in and I'd have to reload, lol.

Markarth doesn't feel like a safe place, so many weird people till you talk to the merchants, lol. The house is the prettiest, but ... urk! I ended moving to Solitude finally, lol.

"Look at the colors?" Sounds like the Silver Blood Inn is serving more than ale! "I'll take a blotter and a mead please..."

On the screens - I thought "Sunrise" was going to be my favorite till I saw "Death" - have to go with it because of that arrow whizzing by Aravi and the Foresworn hiding below - Awesome shot! All are great, but you nailed so much in that one! Great Update!

Its that vigilant of stendarr. That guy is so annoying. He stops you ever time you try to walk past. It has gotten so bad that all of my characters find ways to walk around that street, rather than through it.

Markarth certainly has one of the most interesting layouts, and the most maze-like, of all the Skyrim cities. There are all those stairways and bridges way up high, and no handrails. I wonder how many people fall to their deaths every year?

I just did this quest the other day with Neith. Well, most of it at least. She never finished it all. Markarth was my least favorite city in Skyrim before doing it. Now I like it even less. You will see why.

Aravi has a wolfish grin!

I agree with mALX. Someone has been eating the funny mushrooms!

The sun glowing from behind the mountain was excellent. My favorite pic was Healing though. The lighting was just perfect, and I love Aravi's outstretched hand. Kharjo's helmet is kind of yucky looking. The regular ebony was much nicer.

Vid: It was fun to see Aravi in a dress; the one she’s wearing suits her well.

Wow, I really like how the waterfalls integrate into the city!

As you know, I’ve been inspired by Aravi’s little ‘Mage Light’ spells and now Buffy uses weak frost on target x 15 second spells to simulate the effect in Oblvion. The frost spells ‘stick’ to walls and linger for their duration.

“I find your wolfish grin unsettling.”

Screens: So peaceful at home and what a beautiful sunrise. Snapping a shot of an arrow in flight – very cool! “Ah, I feel like I just woke up from a nap.” Kharjo is too sexy for headgear!

I love Markarth. Denelle lives there. She is not one to stumble drunk off the wrong side of a staircase (Jensa), so I don’t worry about her. I bet that dress was the only thing that kept Aravi from taking the catly way down. You did a great job sharing the feeling of the city with Aravi’s stroll.

Aravi is “dangerous looking,” even in her city gown?! Maybe Eltrys was talking about the mountain in ebony at her back.

Wow, Aravi is not getting welcoming words from anyone here. Except for Hroki!! I know it’s just Aravi’s spell, but she sounds like she’s been in the sugar!

What a great bunch of screens! Like mALX said, “Death” told a little story with one arrow. “Sunrise” shows the Reach at its best, without all of the maniacs. Am I the only one who loves Kharjo’s helm?!

I have to pick “Home” as my favorite picture. Aravi looks so peaceful, and I love that she has a place that is her home. She is a real asset to Riften.

btw. I made a topic on the other forum about those unfriendly Stormcloaks. I have had two characters now who met them as well. It turns out it is not at all unusual behaviour by both the Cloakies and Impies. Each has a "scout patrol" encounter that will act like that. It is really just a matter of luck if you get one, or the other, or none.

@mALX: Aravi isn’t much interested in going after Daedra worshipers, so she didn’t have much care for what the man was saying. Plus she really doesn’t know anything about the house.

I really like Markarth, it’s just the people there that Aravi doesn’t like. It’s a little like Riften that way, only Aravi hasn’t quite had the experience there that she does here.

It took me a while to figure out miss ‘pretty colors’ was talking about the light Aravi had floating about her. It sure sounds the way you say though!

The arrow shot was difficult to get, the location where it happened was really weird. Glad you like it though. It’s quite dramatic. Thanks mALX!

@SubRosa: Aravi finds out how insistent he is.

I love the layout of the city but it’s definitely not very safe!

The outcome has definitely colored Aravi’s opinion of the city. She doesn’t go there very often.

Interesting on the patrols. Strangely enough, I haven’t come across the hostile Imperials; it’s always been Cloaks threatening Aravi.

The healing one is my favorite. Aravi’s gotten better with her healing magic tending to Kharjo. His helmet is yucky? I love the helm! It’s dragon plate! Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: I bet Buffy would like to see Aravi in dresses more often. Aravi has them but she’s so often on ‘business’ that she doesn’t have the chance to really change out of armor. Markarth is very pretty with all the falls isn’t it? Your Oblivion version of the light spell is brilliant. Kharjo looks too powerful with that helm to not use. Thanks Acadian!

@Grits: He must have been talking about Kharjo, because Aravi is puny! And in a dress? No way! I definitely wanted to show off the city some. It’s beautiful. Dresses don’t let Aravi jump very much. Well, she could, but she wouldn’t want to.

Looks like it’s you and me for the helm. Sunrise was actually taken just outside of Ivarstead, so that explains the lack of maniacs. I am a bit surprised you chose Home as a favorite, but it pleases me. She really does look happy there. Thanks Grits!

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Aravi snoops around to find something about the murdered woman.

8:41

Margret’s journal

Aravi will learn to turn right when she enters the gate to avoid that fanatic outside that haunted house, lol.

I got a kick out of the guards harassing Aravi over asking questions, lol. That scene with Thonar was scary, I ddn't know who the woman Aravi killed was in that fight (especially after Thonar came down saying his wife was killed). Thonar must be essential, I thought it was funny that Aravi beat him up, lol. Really interesting turns of events here, I know nothing about this quest other than the glitch that causes the guards to go hostile.

One thing I never did in Skyrim that I really enjoyed doing in Oblivion (mainly because I had no way to make my character invisible for extended periods) - was going invisible and searching everyone's houses to see what could be found, lol. Really would have enjoyed searching Thonar's house without his knowledge, it looked loaded!

And now I'm dying to know what that woman was selling - she's dead now, too late to ask, lol.

I loved this vid, really intriguing and showed a lot of Aravi's personality! Awesome update!

Old news: I’m so glad you explained about the pretty colors comment when Aravi went into that tavern – I didn’t make the connection between her light spell and the comment until you explained it.

This vid was fun to watch. I like the smoke and waterfall mist that floats around the city. Lol, Aravi went barefisted on that Thonar fellow – better than getting wolfy on him I expect. I wonder if a trip to that mine/prison is in order?

So innocent Maggie was not quite so innocent after all. She's an Imperial agent!

"The bloodiest beef in the Reach!"
That is something to brag about? What does he think his customers are, vampires?

Don't go that way Aravi, the Vigilant of Stendarr is that way, he'll try to drag you into another annoying Daedric quest! Uh oh, too late. That guy gets so tiresome, stopping you every time you walk through there.

A speechcraft of 59? Aravi does have honeyed-words!

Ahh, good old Thonar Silverblood. There is a family that competes with the Black-brairs for the title of vilest scum in Skyrim. Don't you love how he blames you, the Empire, and everyone else for the fruit of his own corruption? I see Aravi took the same route as Neith! I wish you could kill him. But you do get the option to do it later.

Lumpy bed? That thing is made of stone! Looks like Aravi is expecting trouble, changing into armor. Hogni Red-Arm has a sales technique that could create a lot of temporary vegetarians. Ooo, did Aravi buy a present for Kharjo?

OK, I guess Markarth is not the most relaxing place to visit. Aravi seemed very on edge, and for good reason. This quest definitely makes me paranoid.

How tactful for Aravi to put her weapons away when she entered The Treasury House. Poor Rhiada. She’s the pregnant wife that Eltrys was talking about. I love that Aravi gave Thonar a good smacking. You do NOT call her an animal, especially not a hound! (Well, there is the wolf thing, but Thonar was just rude!)

This quest makes more sense to me watching than it ever did playing. It's a confusing fight in The Treasury House with all of the summoning and explosions. Aravi knew what to do, though! I'm really enjoying this!

@mALX: The people that attacked killed Thonar’s wife first before Aravi got down there. Aravi wanted to kill him when he said he was having the Forsworn kill people for him. Everything was his fault. Since she couldn’t kill him, she had to settle for taking her claws to him.

Who’s selling what? Thanks mALX!

@Acadian: Going wolfy isn’t even on the table inside of a city, she’d be killed and so would Kharjo. I hope a trip to the mine isn’t in order. Thanks Acadian!

@SubRosa: I’m sure the Imps want that mine!

Aravi’s more effective with words than she was in Cyrodiil. Thonar is scum and Aravi let him know it! Thanks SubRosa!

@Grits: No kidding on the beds! No nothing was bought at the stall.

Oh no, Rhiada was Eltrys’ wife? I didn’t think I could hate the Silverbloods anymore than I already do. Thonar really deserved Aravi’s claws. Thanks Grits!

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Aravi’s eyes sparkled at the treasure before her. Her ears perked forward in excitement and her tail twitched with nervous energy. Her heart beat a little faster. She had searched for so long, and here it is, lying upon a table at Ghorza gra-Bagol’s smithy. An ebony long sword.Aravi heard the smith’s rough chuckle behind her. She glanced back and saw a very pleased looking Orc woman. Turning her head, she saw Kharjo was close to laughter. Her face burned, knowing that they were enjoying her goofy behavior, but she was too thrilled to care.

The black metal was as much a work of art as it was a weapon. The graceful curve of the blade was both beautiful and deadly in shape. The tip was sharp for stabbing and the curved blade ideal for slashing. The blade was thin enough to slip in between a couple of ribs easily and strong enough to hack through armor. It was decorated with exquisite golden swirl designs. Someone took pride in making this weapon.

She turned to Kharjo, trying and failing to not smile. “I do need a new sword after that meeting with the Blades.”

Kharjo started laughing and said, “This one knew you would buy as soon as you laid eyes on it. The look on your face!”

Smiling, Aravi turned to the Orc. “May I?” she asked, reaching tentatively for the sword, tail swishing behind her.

With the Orc’s approval, Aravi lifted the black blade and could tell immediately that this was an excellent sword. After a few swings, excited energy built up in her and she craved more. I’m going to really test this sword! She selected her glass short sword as her other weapon. The familiar with the unknown.

After moving to an open platform where she can fight without worry, she started with some simple swings. She built up to more complex maneuvers, getting a feel for the heavier and longer weapon.

She started to imagine an opponent. At first she only imagined a shadow, just giving her something to focus on. As she fought with it, it started to get more shape and detail. She stopped her practice and watched as the shadow resolved into another Khajiit with disturbing clarity.

Her fur bristled. The other Khajiit looked like herself, except it wasn’t. You are dead. The beast took you. The demon, the fragment of a vampire that lived inside of her for so long, showed its fangs in a perverted imitation of a smile. Its molten eyes bored into her, and Aravi wanted nothing more than to cut its head off. The world around them disappeared, leaving only the platform and the two of them. Everything else was the blackness of the void. Swords appeared in its hands.

From far off she heard Kharjo call out to her. “Is something wrong?”

Aravi charged her vampire and attacked. You are not here. This is not real! She fought with ferocity she didn’t know she possessed, moving faster than she had ever before. No matter how quick she was, each slash was blocked, every stab diverted. She couldn’t penetrate its defense.

Then it started fighting back, and Aravi found with alarm that she was on the defense. It was faster and stronger than she was; each blow she blocked made her arms numb. She backed away to buy time as she kept its swords from touching her skin. She was pressed to the edge of the platform, out of space and nowhere to go.

She bared her teeth in a snarl. You are not REAL! Out of options, she steeled herself. When it swung for her head, instead of defending herself, she went for its neck. She felt her own blade tug as it sliced through her vampire’s neck just before freezing cold pain exploded across her face. The vampire’s sword caught her right cheek and disintegrated into smoke with a hiss. Aravi fell to the platform. She brought a hand to her face and felt only smooth, cold bone.

She looked up and saw the vampire levitating before her; its head floating approximately where it should have been had it been attached still. It started transforming into something even more hideous, spindly wings tore from its back. Aravi felt the werewolf within her surge from where ever it lived…

…She was under the bright sun again, laying on the platform holding her cheek. It was tingling, but she felt her fur, whiskers, and the old scar. It wasn’t real, she told herself.

Something touched her back and sent a jolt through her. “Calm Aravi!” Kharjo stood with his hands held in front of him. “What happened?” He offered her a hand. She took it and let herself be hauled to her feet.

“Nothing.” Kharjo’s ears flattened. “I mean not here. I’ll tell you later.”

“Ok. But you are telling this one.” He eyed her warily.

“Yes, of course.” He knows me well. A feeling of dread gripped her. There’s no way it’s still alive. And yet there it was, more vivid than ever in a waking dream. Is that what that was? Her instincts told her that something was happening. The world was going to get even more dangerous.

Ghorza’s presence snapped her out of contemplation, a strange look on her face. “That was some display. Now, are you going to pay for the sword?”

“Yes, of course, how much is it?” The price was high, but Aravi paid without question.

“Fight well,” Ghorza said by way of farewell. Aravi repeated the phrase and turned toward Understone Keep where Markarth’s court wizard would be.

“May you always walk on warm sands.” She heard Kharjo bid the smith farewell in the traditional Khajiiti way before catching up with her quick pace. “Where are we going?”

“I need to enchant this sword with fire. Then we go down to the warrens and find more about this murder.”

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Aravi has a new outfit! One & Two

Just a note, there is a belt that takes the tail slot which is why she doesn’t have one in the second screen. I’m ditching the belts since it looks like a fix isn’t as easy as it was in Oblivion.

Ghorza is the one that I did a favor for, and one day I got a note saying she died and left me her inheritance. I think these random acts of kindness net you inheritance if the NPC dies - at least it did with her. I liked her too, was sad she died (and don't know how or why/what happened).

Looks like those vampires followed Aravi to Skyrim, URK! Love that outfit, and the chapter! Great Write/update!

That’s a nice dress! I love the sleeves. The thigh exposure is of course Nord-approved.

Wow, Aravi’s shopping trip turned very disturbing. That sounds like a Vampire Lord in her vision. I wonder if a daedric prince could be messing with her. I love how her beast spirit responded. She carries darkness around with her, but it could be a lot worse.

What a neat scene, KC!

A wonderful segue from ‘girl gone shopping’ to Aravi’s fascination with the wonderful sword to a dark encounter with her vampiric past. I wonder if the werewolf’s ability to ward away her vampire problems is waning?

I loved how she so quickly corrected herself when Kharjo asked for an explanation. You did a fabulous job here of gently letting us know she realizes that what she has with Kharjo means sharing – the good and the bad.

Her new outfit is wonderful. The easy flowing lines suit her, green is a great color for her and I like the almost oriental feel the outfit has. Very nice!

Oooh, that is a fancy dress. I like the scaled pattern down the tummy.

What started out as a fun sword shopping expedition turned into something much worse. Aravi's old nemesis has returned: the vampiric nature that has so long tormented her. Bad enough that she has to fight the wolf in her, now this is back too! The inclusion of the vampire lord form was a good touch. Perhaps this means Aravi will be joining the group of vampire hunters headquartered in Fort Dawnguard?

@mALX: That’s really weird, I wonder why she died? I think Aravi randomly got an inheritance note too, but in Morthal. Thanks mALX!

@Grits: That dress/armor (its actually considered armor, don’t look at me though) shows a lot more leg than I expected. Aravi will hang onto it still. The beast spirit had to do something right? Thanks Grits!

@Acadian: I’m very glad you liked Kharjo’s part. Aravi’s getting used to having him to rely on for more than fighting. The outfit is definitely an unusual style but I liked it. Thanks Acadian!

@SubRosa: Like I said above, the outfit is supposed to be armor. Looks much more like a dress, so Aravi will use it like one. The Dawnguard is definitely on the horizon! Thanks SubRosa!

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The murderer in the market lived in the warrens. Aravi looks down there for clues…

7:13

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Walking in the Rift

Sunset

You’re not so tough

Volley

"Walking in the Rift" is my fave screen, but "Volley" ran a very close second! Love that area, everything is colorful there!

Holy Cow, I love this vid! First, never knew about "The Warrens" - haven't seen them before. Really cool everyone gets their own room, wonder if the Player can live in there?

Then that guy said he was going to teach Aravi a lesson - and did nothing, ROFL!! She asks him a question and he says "Back for another lesson?" ROFL !!! LOVED that!

Next Nepos - Holy Cow! WOO HOO! Now that is a great character and dialogue, too bad he has to die so quickly! Loved that scene - and if Aravi didn't loot them in the vid, can you just tell me what she found there?

Also - I wasn't sure about this, in Skyrim if you kill someone, can you take over their house without problems like in previous games?

Nice house Nepos had, if you can I'll be heading over there to get a new home, ROFL !!!

Nepos turned into a pile of ash, how did that happen?

AWESOME VID !!!! LOVED it !!!!!

I think that guy in the leather armor was supposed to pick a fight with Aravi. I remember poor little Denelle getting a surprise beatdown right in that doorway. Did he just call Aravi MANGY?! She was kind to let him live!!

That’s a great scene with Nepos the Nose. Now it’s easy to understand why Eltrys pounced on Aravi for help as soon as she walked through the city gates. I really like this conspiracy quest.

Wow, this is another group of screenshots where I just can’t pick a favorite. The birch trees are a great backdrop for Aravi. She and Kharjo make quite a contrast! These are great, KC!

So Aravi is back to poking her nose where it does not belong.

So "N" sent Weylin to assassinate Margaret? Now who might "N" be? Uh oh, looks like Aravi needs to learn another lesson! This will not last long, even without the two swords. Yep, Aravi thrashed that milk-drinker but good. Kharjo looks like he about to spit his head open!

Now to Nepos the Nose. Wonder how he got that nickname. Oh, I guess it is obvious...

Aravi, a bloodhound? This guy should turn to look at who he is talking too!

I get the feeling that Aravi will be the last person to get that far... Wow, that was over in what, 5 seconds?

Walking in the Rift and Volley were definitely my favs. The lighting is just outstanding in the first. You can see every little detail of Aravi's face. The second is just an excellent action pick.

Vid: Aravi snoops around the Warrens and finds her clue. Then some fisticuff laughs with that goon. Nepos made an all too common arrogant blunder – he telegraphed his intentions to Aravi allowing her plenty of time to be ready for him. Sure enough, when that time came, out came swords one and two, Kharjo and the spirit wolf. So much for the Nose.

Screens: ‘Walking in the Rift’ shows such beautiful detail of Aravi’s face and the bark of that tree next to her. ‘Sunset’ is a great shot of her new dress! Assuming that is Kharjo inside that helmet, ‘You’re not so tough’ is simply adorable! I love how ‘Volley’ catches the sun!

KING COIN! I am so sorry I haven't been able to keep up. I lost internet connection, and hell, I moved away from my old house and I'm chilling at a hotel at the moment! But I will catch up! Aravi's escapades are too good to miss!


Oh my . . . .Aravi and her vampiric past, eh? The girl has been through both supernatural powers and yet lives to tell the tale! So, her Lycanthropy is negative towards vampirism, eh? Interesting. And it sounds like a VL! I can foresee Aravi joining up with the Dawnguard(she already did, didn't she?) and fight off Harkon!

As much as I am pro-vampire, anti-human, I still think that extremist madman needs to be taken down, and who other than Aravi to deliver the blow in her wolf form?

I always picture this scene . . .Bethesda has a way for copying things . . .

@mALX: Aravi loves the Rift because it’s warmer than the rest of Skyrim, and also very pretty! I don’t think the player can live in the warrens. It’s a dump, so you really wouldn’t want to anyways. This quest was kind of glitchy. One of the people Aravi was fighting at the end tried to reanimate N’s corpse. Thanks mALX!

@Grits: The brawls are really difficult if you aren’t a Khajiit. Aravi’s claws took that guy down pretty fast. Aravi wanted to like N, but after hearing his role in the whole thing, she’s glad he’s dead. This town is worse than Riften. Glad to hear it on the screen shots! Thanks Grits!

@SubRosa: Of course she’s poking her nose into things, that’s what she does! I thought the bloodhound comment was funny too. You named the exact reasons why I loved that first screen. You should try some of those ENB settings; you have the machine to run them. Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: Aravi even got to talk to N after he told her he was going to try to kill her. She had lots of time to get ready to move. That is Kharjo, he looks so big and intimidating in that screen and Aravi is just looking up into the helmet smiling. Thanks Acadian!

@DE: Oh wow, it sounds like you have a lot going on. No worries, it’s good to see you back. The whole reason Aravi took Lycanthropy is because it helped her against the vampire disease that ‘took root’ so to speak when she was in Cyrodiil. She was infected with the disease many times and she eventually couldn’t cure it. She could delay it, but not cure it.

I kind of want to see that movie now… lol. Thanks DE!

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Aravi returns to Eltrys to tell him what she’s found.*

7:26
*Yep, this one is glitched too. I worked around it but couldn’t totally edit it out.
Also, Aravi is a little emotional in the mine.

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Screens:

Low sun

Aiming

In the ferns

And now Aravi learns just how scummy Markarth is. The City Guard, the Silverbloods, and the Forsworn, all mixed up into a steaming cesspool of murder and corruption.

Borkul the Beast. Now there is a catchy name. Got to love those old fashioned orcs.

And there is Madanach. He and Thonar Silverblood make quite the pair of scum.

Of the pics, I liked In the ferns best. The others were good, but I just loved that one of Aravi being sneaky.

How did I know Aravi was going to end up visiting that mine? I figured she’d slip in with her blades though, not get tossed in there only wearing a short dress! Yikes! You could tell she was thinking of Kharjo when she agreed to ‘go peacefully’. I feel for her – some of those dialogue choices make you want to say, ‘None of the above!’

Great screens and thanks for sharing! I love how the one of Aravi sneaking through the ferns looks almost like Blackwood near Leyawiin.

These screens are all wonderful, I can't pick a favorite among them! The vid - Holy Cow what a quest! Scary, you kind of don't know what you should be answering sometimes! I'll bet she didn't fight her arrest because of Kharjo too, I guess she couldn't sneak by the guard to get in, lol.

The AI really bothers me in scenes like the one with Madanach, it feels so unnatural that he doesn't look up from his writing while talking. I understand not getting up in your face like they did in Oblivion, just wish they had added head tracking for conversations.

Well, this vid is like reading a story that is a cliffhanger, not sure what is going to happen to Aravi! Awesome Update!

Argh, with Kharjo’s life also at risk she was trapped into going peacefully. Being told she was a slave and would never see the sun again must have been impossibly crushing for Aravi. As soon as she made the choice of Kharjo’s safety over her own, she was taken away for life.

Wow, Aravi persuaded the Beast! Madanach is quite a character. The choices he offers are bad or worse. But I don’t see Aravi giving up and mining ore until she barfs ingots, or whatever it was that the charming orc hostess said. What a gripping quest! I can’t wait to see how Aravi handles her predicament!


Aiming is lovely, but Ferns takes the prize! I love the way she’s sneaking with the swords. That looks like a great spot for a picnic! After the violence, of course.

@SubRosa: There isn’t a side that you could even try to justify. All of them are scum.

Borkul has some really funny dialog if you ask him what he’s in for I hear. Aravi quite frankly didn’t want to know what any of them did. She could guess just fine. When I saw those ferns I knew I needed a screen of Aravi in them. Thanks SubRosa!

@Acadian: This is definitely not how Aravi imagined this turning out. Kharjo is the only reason she went, otherwise she would have fought to the death to stay out. She wasn’t taking Kharjo with her though.

You are right about the ferns; it kind of does look that way. Thanks Acadian!

@mALX: Absolutely right about her reason of going with the guards. She could not sneak past the guards, it was difficult to see because she wasn’t able to get close, but Eltrys was murdered by the guards. Glad you like the screens! Thanks mALX!

@Grits: You are so right! That was crushing for her to go to the mine like that; it is too close to her experiences as a slave. If Kharjo wasn’t there, she would have fought to the death to stay out, but she wasn’t going to drag Kharjo with her. They would have been killed and she wasn’t going to make that decision for him.

I think that’s Jerric talking with the comment about picnics. Thanks Grits!

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Aravi talks to the man Madanach, the King in Rags, told her to. Later, she manages to find some skooma and exchange it for a weapon…

9:41

Madanach’s note

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Screens:
A new armor combo. Opinions?

This way

Sunset

Pretty armor, the green matches her eyes? Lol. "This Way" is my fave screen, really cute facial expression Aravi has here!

Aravi's indecision about what to do had me laughing, she kept going back and forth to them but backing out of conversations, lol. GAAAH! She killed him without getting that Awesome armor first! Urk! LOVE this update!