Tamrielic Adventures: Vol. 2

[BetaB17]

Nora the Fox

"But then why!" Nora frantically responded "Why let those whom had no involvement escort us so!? Why let the caravan still abide, when even the risk was all too much!?"

Nora stopped in her outburst, now standing there, looking down, shaking from the very turmoil she still tried to hold "They didn't ask for this.." her voice was low, stricken with grief "They depended on us.. but we brought upon their unknowing doom.. I.. no we failed them. We couldn't protect them when it mattered most.. and we could hardly protect ourselves.." her hand clenched upon her shoulder, upon her very weakness

The proud skaal warrior, slowly fell upon her knees, sunken by her own words "Ye could of left us without guide nor cover.. at least then... when the wolves came for thier slaughter.. non but their prey would be troubled.." She would of given herself a hundred times over, had that meant the life of every man lost this day.

'Woe are the pains to those that truly love life.
Woe are the pains to those unready to lose it'

[Baloth-Kul]

Falkreath - Manor
"We did fail them." Uriel Septim agreed, solemnly. "Which is why it is of such importance that this task be done. Men are but flesh and blood. They know their doom, but not the hour. Make no mistake--this hour is upon us. There will be blood and death before the end, I have seen it."

He looked at each of those who readily agreed to take on this service. "We do this, not because it is an easy thing, but because it is not. To stand against the tide of darkness, to be willing to sacrifice, that others might live. Rise to the occasion, and I have no doubt that you will be the ones to save this world from those who would tear it asunder."

Grelok, Nora
Seeing Nora drop to her knees, Grelok gently gripped her hand with his. "Up you get, shieldmaiden. You don't have to do it alone, and we're not going to let anyone else die. We know what we're up against, now."

[Aarah]

Eolwyn

"Do we really though?" Eolwyn asked of Grelok's last statement.
She looked to the Emperor.

"We know they are Hollow Council, of their plans. We know to now be on guard. But such knowledge is insufficient to defeat an enemy. They had magic, strong magic, we know this much. We also know that we likely would have perished had it not been for your intervention. Therefore, we must know more of our foe, lest we befall the same fate as today."
She paused for a moment.
"I will not falter from the path of destiny, but I ask that you tell us all that you know of this Council. I feel you are holding back information; a common choice, yes, but seeing as we are the ones fated to defeat them, there should be no secrets between us, Emperor."

[Alarra]

Niralie - Manor

Niralie understood how Nora felt. She'd felt that if innocent people had died on their behalf, then surely they owed it to them to stop their murderers. But she'd thought that the deaths were unpreventable, not that the Emperor had knowingly let the members of the caravan die. She raised a hand to her mouth, horrified at the revelation.

She still wasn't sure what to think of the whole thing.

Something the Emperor said reminded Niralie of one of her many questions. She waited until Eolwyn had finished speaking, nodding in agreement - this was the sort of information that she had been seeking with her first question - and then added: "Flesh and blood... is that what the Hollow Council are? They vanished into smoke when they were 'killed'."

[Baloth-Kul]

Falkreath - Manor
"You are not wrong, Eolwyn of Valenwood, there are things I know that you do not. Compartmentalization has kept the Grey Vigil alive. We have many agents in many places, and we know of many Hollow Council agents, in many places. In the interest of protecting our agents and their families, and in not compromising our various missions, I cannot tell you of them. I can tell you everything else, however."

The emperor looked uncertain at the mention of the Hollow Council turning to smoke. "Lord Jacme?"

"Forgive me, your Imperial Majesty--yes. As we have learned, the agents of the Hollow Council leave no trace. Their weapons and armour are summoned, and they themselves undergo some manner of enchantment. Upon death, they leave nothing but wisps of smoke and ash, so as to leave behind as few secrets as possible. They are indeed mortal men and women, make no mistake--they are not beyond your strength, as much as they might disagree."

Uriel Septim spoke again. "There are many agents of the Hollow Council, and the Grey Vigil, in places high and low, throughout Tamriel. Be cautious of whom you choose to trust. As and when it is appropriate, in our missives sent to you, we will include any relevant information--who you might contact for assistance, and who we suspect to be enemy infiltrators."

[Aarah]

Eolwyn

Eolwyn nodded.
"I am always careful of whom I trust."

She questioned the Emperor further, not willing to head back out on their journey without knowing more. News that the Council were spread across Tamriel, and could be anyone, would do nothing to offer the Champions success in an encounter with them.

"Is there no more that you know of their abilities? I was told that your Vigils were very effective in turning our new foe into ash, when our group had no such luck. I realise that not all of us are warriors, but do you not know of any physical weaknesses they possess, other than their disillusioned belief that they are untouchable?"

[BetaB17]

Nora

Nora refused to let herself unravel further, she will not shed a tear before them, not again. But hearing Uriel's words did not make it easy. She could not conprehend how such a great and benevolent leader, could so easily permit such a sacrifice of his people, even in the face of a dire threat.

But then someone touched upon her hand, and her shaken self seemed to cease. In her moment of weakness, unconsciously she weaved her hand with his. "I am such an unworthy companion, am I not?" she said to Grelok in reply "To allow myself to falter so.. I would of done thee better had I not been made of snow nor frost.."

"... I thank of thee"

Drawing herslef back to foot, like a fire born from ash. Releasing herself from Grelok, she thought of returning amongst the group, but felt it lost to still kneel "My Emperor.. tell of us where these fiends dwell, so that their terror ends hastily. But I do of this not by your decree or prophecy.. but by the people of this land.. and of my friends.. But I will welcome the assistance" Her pride and beliefs were a small pittance to the lives of many that were at risk

[KingFeraligatr]

Zudeel - Manor with the Emperor

Zudeel had been silently taking in the conversations with the Emperor and the rest of the people in the room. In them he had learned several pieces of information he had been meaning to ask about. About the Hollow Council and their typical "take over everything" plans. That the Hollow Counncil was going after Elder Scrolls, artifacts Zudeel thought best untouched. Uriel's "prophecies and destinies" schtick. That the Emperor's agents had been stalking them every so often for a long time. Uriel's half assed thanks. That the "Champions" where being targeted by the Hollow Council because of some prophecy. The Hollow Council's wanting of a Dragon Break. The Hollow Council had been capturing Moth Priests. That the Hollow Council had used summoned ebony equipment and they did indeed disappear that when they "died". That the Hollow Council had a hubris.. That the Hollow Council where apparently normal mer, humans, and the like. That the Emperor knew the Hollow Council was going to attack and purposely let them almost kill them all. The last one made Zudeel sigh in his head,Typical politicians.....

However Zudeel was not satisfied with all the questions asked and all their answers. Where did this Hollow Council come from and what were their origins? And the Grey Vigil as well? What was the Hollow Council's resources? Other miscellaneous facts about Hollow Council? What would be Zudeel and his "Champions" compensations for undertaking a job like this? Was this Hollow Council connected to the slavers that killed Zudeel's parents and the rest of his home village? And so on.

Zudeel decided to ask several his questions to the Emperor. The Argonian locked his eyes on Uriel's when he could and said with his usual stoic tone,"Excuse me, Your Majesty. I have several questions myself. I wondering where did this Hollow Council come from, when where they started, and what are their origins? And can you tell me what resources you know they have? Also, can you answer the same questions I had for the Hollow Council, just with the Grey Vigil? And also, you must have heard about the slaver attack that attacked and decimated my home village and killed everyone there, including my parents. I'm wondering if this Hollow Council has any connection this slaver group. You do not have tell me all the information you have, but any answers from Your Majesty would be appreciated.". Zudeel had kept a much more formal face, speech style, etc. than he wanted to. He hated the Emperor and the rest of his scum, but doing a bit of sucking up around these politicians was necessary and got one much further.

Spoiler:

I'd imagine the slavers would want nothing to do with the Hollow Council. Well, I guess I should force myself to give Baloth info on them now for him to decide.

[The SheoDovah]

Katlina

Katlina was surprised at Nora due to her dropping to her knees and was about to walk over to her to give her a hug but Grelok beat her to it with a simple hand. "It gives us another reason to sink our blades,axes, Grelok, into their skulls." She commented. Damn. Never seen Nora like that before. I best stick close to her and act as her shield. Cheer her up when she is low and bury my own feelings deep. They think me a rowdy nord and I am but they will continue to see that. As far as they are concerned, I am fearless. Talos will guide me and pick me up when I am about to break. I am the wildheart. My axe, a tool of valour and justice. My mind, my sharpest tool if i use it and my skills are required. I have disgraced myself by allowing my defeat and failed to prove my worth. No more. I am a healer. I will heal anyone in need. Kill when I must and get drunk when celebrating. Nora, we may perish but we'll dine in Sovngarde!

"They may be fancy with their magic and sure, they kicked our arses but this is their only victory. We'll stain the land with their blood and if they think that Skyrim would ever submit to their deeds, they will taste a million axes of a million angry nords. They killed too many people and I may not be a warrior or the best fighter but I am a healer. Anything they'll do, I'll undo!" She declared to the group whilst raising her axe in the air. "And Nora, you are more then worthy to be a champion. You are never one to sit by when a hero is needed. You would never sit by when aid is required and the Fox is one dangerous woman when pushed. She is worthy of Sovngarde! Of being a Companion. A Champion, she is and more importantly, has a massive heart." she told the Fox in a bid to cheer her up or at least, provide a distraction. "And Foxes are far better then kats. But Kats make for loyal friends and if the Fox needs to vent, the Kat will listen."

You have me, old friend. Let me share your burdens. Let me carry your fears, your doubt and slay any feelings that make you feel awful. The Fox I know is the strongest woman I know.

[VirtualWeasel]

Roran - The Manor
The room's spirit seemed to weaken with Nora's outbursts. Roran looked away from the others, and especially Uriel, aggravated and aware that the Emperor had put him to shame. Perhaps he was being selfish, but his discontent for serving the Empire still lingered.
"I suppose it is reason enough," he started, a bit choked by his own embarrassment, "I did my service in the past, and... Guess it's about time to do it again." The Legate chuckled to himself, before continuing. "I must say, I never thought this would be the way you'd find me."

Hidden:

bleh, I hate this post, but figured I should probably get some kind of response in before we move on.

[Baloth-Kul]

Falkreath - Manor

Hidden:

Er, he can't tell you where the Hollow Council is. They know of some individual agents, but that info is on a need to know basis, so that their anti-H.C operations don't get blown. You will be forwarded info as to suspected members when it is deemed necessary. For now, your instructions are to continue with the Threads, and be prepared to face the H.C

"I am sorry to hear of your losses." Uriel Septim said to Zudeel, sincerely. "We do not have all-encompassing knowledge of all your pasts, so I cannot say definitively, but my feelings tell me the Hollow Council may indeed be behind such an event. As they manipulated Malvirian Linvail to ultimately attack Windhelm, so too may they have sent such men to your village."

"Fate seldom calls upon us at an hour of our choosing, but I thank you all for answering. ...Have you any more questions? I will do what I can to aid you in your task."

[Rook]

Dorian - The Dining Hall

"I maintain my earlier position, Your Grace. I will continue to hunt for the Threads, but not because of any divine decree, rousing speech, or allegiance." Dorian reiterated, "I will not serve the Grey Vigil, and I put no stock in these supposed prophecies. If I choose to combat the Hollow Council, if I choose to believe in this supposed doomsday, it will be on my own terms."

The Dwemer Arena

Darkscale

The arrow sheared through the air where Darkscale's head had been just moments ago, but Darkscale's arrow met its mark, spearing the Falmer through the throat and killing it.

Khazi

Khazi's dagger struck with deadly accuracy, piercing the chest of the Falmer Chieftain, who flailed with pain, slashing wildly around him with his spear. Rosa then stepped forward and held out her hand, incinerating the mutant in a jet of flames.

Nammu

Nammu succeeded in turning the cowardly Argonian's scales as hard as iron. However, the strain of his spellcasting over the past few hours was taking its toll. Despite his power, he felt weary and his body had begun to ache.

Sees-In-Shade

The giant chaurus was evidently confused as the flesh of its prey suddenly turned from scaly yet squishy to the equivalent of a suit of armor. As it continued shaking him, Sees-In-Shade's slash transitioned into a stab that pierced one of the beast's blue eyes. With a ghastly shriek, it flung Sees-In-Shade from its mandibles. Though the impact did not knock him unconscious, the Argonian could feel himself fading quickly and his vision was blurred and darkening. The combination of extreme pain and the rally potion whipped the chaurus up into a rampage, causing it to stampede around the arena, kicking up dust and crushing bodies. And awful squishing noise was heard, followed by many more, as black blood began to spurt out of the beast in small geysers. Chunks of flesh and bits of exoskeleton were flung through the air as the chaurus' blood reacted to the poison. With a mighty bellow, the colossal chaurus collapsed and died.


With the last of the cave dwellers defeated, or so it seemed, what was left of the expedition was free to observe the aftermath of their battle. All of the bodyguards were dead, Ruuz had been impaled, and Talks-Too-Much and the Baronet had disappeared. Rosa was coated with blood but still alive, Sees-in-Shade required urgent medical attention, Nammu needed to rest, Darkscale had a painful arrow sticking out of his shoulder, and Khazi was relatively unharmed. All in all, a high cost even for one man and a chest of gold. They were now free to examine the battleground or proceed onwards through the door.

[BetaB17]

Hidden:

Sees-In-Shade +100

Nammu +50 assist

GG

[Alarra]

Khazi-daro - Falmer Cave

Khazi didn't have much time to focus on her victory over the chieftain: it was then that the giant chaurus began flailing around, and she tensed and prepared to either fight or run. But she needn't have worried: the Argonian's poison did its work. As the creature finally collapsed, dead, she took a long breath of relief, and then glared around, looking for the Baronet: it was his continued foolishness that had gotten them into this. Not seeing him anywhere, she gave a resigned sigh, put her throwing knives away, and went over to the dead chieftain to retrieve her dagger.


Niralie - Manor

Niralie's estimation of Katlina rose slightly at the Nord's speech. Of course, the woman had gone about it in her usual obnoxious way, but heart was in the right place at least.

She hoped that Dorian's response to the Emperor didn't mean that he might leave them at some point. They needed to work together, all of them, to defeat this foe, and couldn't risk anyone leaving - nor did she want to see anyone killed by going off on their own.

When the Emperor asked if they had more questions, Niralie decided to ask something she'd been curious about, hoping that it wasn't a stupid question. "The leader of the particular group that attacked us was focused on me," she remarked. "Is there any significance to that?" She also realized that he had not answered Eolwyn. "And - forgive me, your majesty, I know we must be asking too many questions, but Eolwyn had an important one: do the Hollow Council have any physical vulnerabilities that we should know about?"

[The SheoDovah]

The Scales of Darkness strikes it's target

The arrow was released from the bow and flew through the air. It's master avoided being hit by the creature's arrow and the creature paid for it's mistake with it's life as the arrow struck it in the throat. It's death was certain and it perished. The Darkened One knew not to rejoice or take part in any petty victory celebrations for they were the habits of lesser agents of death. He was forged in the darkness by the shadows of Sithis. He was taught and molded to kill without question and he turned his back on them after feeling something months ago. But the past was dead and he was alive. It seemed they required a man and thing of his skills but payment would have to wait until there was a perfect chance to negotiate a payment. The large insect seemed to have been slain by the one covered in shades and it eliminated the inconvience of having to deal with it from the dark.

[BetaB17]

Nammu - Falmer Depths

The priest clasped his hand back, satisfied as the chaurus struggled with it's prey, but no more satisfied than when it's very sight was stolen. And even while it rampaged, a turmoil of flesh and chitin, the priest idly stood there, watching the product of their conflict.

He leaned a bit heavy on his staff, tired from both these endless delays and their need for intervention. Slowly, Nammu walked further into the chamber, shifting eyes taking in the scene. Khazi, now skittering over to her fallen prey. The corrupted child, far too busy in the depths of his own clouded mind. And somewhere tossed upon the ground, the culprit to all this frenzy.

Twitching a finger, he tried to sense if he still had his falmer minion, even had it been crushed or crippled in the aftermath. Though that was not all that called for his attention. "Archer, check upon the impaled one, Ruuz was it not? See if he still breaths.." his voice grew tire, evidence to this day "Khazi.. when you can, Nammu has need of you." He was steadily making his way towards SIS "And you, assassin. Make yourself useful, and hither as well."

Nora the Fox

Standing aside, she tried her best to just contemplate everything that was being said. She placed a hand on her chin, restraining herself for the time being. She may have less questions than others, but not loss for words yet

[The SheoDovah]

Darkscale

The priest caught the attention of the darkened one and was summoned like a dog. He was not one of those creatures and was a season scale of shadows but the arrow in his shoulder was something to be tended to and he hated working through injuries. Too many ways for it to ruin his sneaking. Too much evidence and the Darkened Brothers always scolded him when he was injured. Provided there was no more Falmer creatures, he would slowly and carefully rejoin the group.

[KingFeraligatr]

Zudeel - Manor with the Emperor

The Emperor's dodging of the group's questions, especially Zudeel's own, made Zudeel have a slight tinge of annoyance. On the surface he was still calm and stoic, though. Zudeel was also disappointed that no one seemed to know about these slavers, including the gosh dam Emperor. Let's see if this old [&@%!] actually answers these questions..., Zudeel thought to himself. The mercenary readied himself and tried to lock eyes with Uriel when possible and spoke when he chance,"Pardon me, Your Majesty, but I have another series of questions. Taking on the Hollow Council will no doubt be difficult, dangerous, a long haul, and more. What kind of compensation can me and my fellow Champions expect for this? Also, if you will compensate us, what will be the terms to it and when can we expect it? I do not expect immediate compensation, as we haven't really done anything at this moment, but for me personally, I don't expect to make a concentrated effort to fight the Hollow Council without compensation. Sorry to say this, You Majesty, but those in my trade aren't known for working for free, as you probably are aware of. It'd also be nice if you'd compensate my fellow Champions for spending their time combating the Hollow Council. Any information on this subject Your Majesty can provide on this would be appreciated, regardless of the response.".

Zudeel tried to sound as respectful as possible. However, if he received no response or information that none of him and his fellow "Champions" would receive compensation, Zudeel would be quite [&@%!] internally. They where going to be risking their lives for some fatcat Emperor, his cronies, and his overall corrupt Empire. If they received no compensation, that would go to further reinforce Zudeel's hatred of politicians, government officials, and more.

[Baloth-Kul]

Falkreath - Manor

The emperor seemed unfazed by Dorian's position. "Perhaps, in seeking your own path, you will yet fulfill your role in this battle."

"It is doubtful that the one who led them had any designs beyond ending your life, and those of your companions. Perhaps he simply saw himself as the better match to face you." Uriel Septim replied to Niralie. "I am sorry, but we have not heard of any innate weaknesses they might possess. They are, however, wholly confident in their success, believing themselves to have mastered fate. That itself shall prove to be a part of their undoing."

A wistful tone seeped into the emperor's voice. "Forgive me--amidst the doom that threatens our world, I seem to have forgotten of more earthly concerns. In completing your task, you shall be well rewarded. ...There are those of a similar mind in this world, and they, too, have a part to play. Two other citizens of our Empire shall accompany you, in your adventure."

One of the Emperor's Blades opened a door, and in walked two figures. One, a Redguard woman, who had the look of a sellsword. The other, an Imperial man who seemed a bit worse for wear. It was Arellius.

Hidden:

Name: Dulani
Race: Redguard
Sex: Female
Age: 28

Appearance: Average height for a Redguard, Dulani is slim but well-toned. Her skin is a copper tone, and long, curly hair the colour of strong coffee surrounds her oval face. Her eyes are a bright brown, and are capable of showing as much emotion as her words. She has a scar on her left arm, under her shoulder. She wears lose, flowing clothes that allow her freedom of movement, and wears a pearl on a golden chain around her neck.

Personality: Dulani has a natural charm about her, which she often uses to her advantage. She is quick to smile, though quick to anger as well. She's stubborn to a fault and used to getting her own way, and tends to be selfish. She has a soft spot for children, however, and will always help the innocent. To those close to her, she will give anything, up to and including her life.

A short bio: Dulani lived out the first 18 years of her life in Hammerfell, learning fighting techniques from her father, a respected teacher of martial arts and swordplay. On her 18th birthday, she went to work on her uncle's trading ship.
After two years she was an integral part of the crew and married to the first mate. She worked with her husband on the ship for 6 more years, both of them saving up money to start their own business.
Then, one night the ship was attacked by pirates. Dulani managed to fight off most of them, receiving only the scar on her left arm and some minor cuts and bruises. Unfortunately, her husband was killed. After that night, the sea terrified her, and she decided to get off at the next port to make a living as an adventurer.

Skills: 18 years of training have rendered Dulani quick and agile, a master of acrobatics. She is proficient with blades and unarmored, and is able to persuade and barter skillfully. She knows many knots and is excellent at navigation, and can say simple phrases in a variety of languages, due to her time at sea.

Gear: Dulani carries two steel wakizashis with her. They are old, but well cared for. In her bag, she has a good supply of gold, a cloak for cold weather, some provisions, and five throwing knives.

"There is one other thing that may assist you, should you choose to use it." Jacme said to the Champions. He approached Eolwyn, and offered her a pair of shoes, which seemed to possess a glimmer of familiarity. "One of these 'Threads', provided by the newest member of the Grey Vigil."

Vayniah Linvail eyed both the Shoes of Sanguine Leaping and Eolwyn in turn, before looking away disinterestedly.

[The SheoDovah]

Katlina

After Nora's continued silence, Katlina opted to speak to her when she could. Her friend was in need of a friend and she was her friend. The emperor revealed two people to join the group, a redguard and imperial. "The more, the merrier." She commented. Hopefully, it'll mean we are not a bigger target. Really hope you are ok, Nora. chat to me when you can. She turned to look at Zudeel. "Seriously? She had disdain in her tone and couldn't believe that someone would put gold above the quest they had. "There's honour and glory in saving the world and you are worried about compensation? The nine have chosen us and it is our destiny to save the world lest these cowards destroy everything we love and know. The Hollow Council have defeated us once but it is the last victory they will taste. We, the Champions will wipe them out!" She told Zudeel along with the party towards the end of her words. Don't recall you sticking with us. Doubt you'll be committed to the cause if they tempt you with gold. Hope the new people will be useful. And those boots are useful. Nice too. Hope Eolwyn knows she is doing with them. Should keep an eye out for any more of the threads.

[Velvet LeChance]

Arellius Afer III - Falkreath

That characteristic grin bequeath a twist of bemusement to his features. He examined the misfitted group, fixed around the emperor like a poor pair of hand-me-downs. His gaze passing up and down each in turn. The other sellsword was present, Valentia was not. It hovered penetratingly over Niralie a moment longer than the rest.

He himself looked about the same as either her or Eolwyn might have remembered: face covered in unkempt scraggle, medium build: strong arms, thick neck, and weighed down in boiled leather. His steel tanto hung from his left hip, the ebony longblade from the other. But, at the same time, the differences where stark. There was no hiding the angry, purple blotch - the burst blood vessels, that stretched up his left cheek. The grin that crept up his features hung looser. To the astute, there was lines on his face that hadn’t been there before. He looked tired, though he might hide it well.

Moments passed before Arellius offered his own calculation of events, the same harsh tone retained.

“[&@%!]’ destiny, eh?”

His gaze settled on Niralie with that.

[BetaB17]

Nora the Fox

Nora watched, not all too enthusiastic over thier new comrades, then again, her focus was else where. With Zudeel's insistence for compensation, the skaal finally spoke up. In a passionless tone she added "No, the mercenary is right." She sounded seriously, but she held a hand to warrant caution to her friends as she looked to Zudeel "Mostly, that be. There must be compensation for what our deeds sought"

She looked away from the argonian, setting her sight upon the Emperor "Those left behind, under the care of those whom fell with the caravan. I expect them to be retributed for their loss before none else.." she didn't once hesitate about greed itself "I will not accept any answer, aside from with certainty.. yes"

She shot one final look towards Zudeel, and any other motivated by coin alone, a show to them that is more to life than selfish want

[Alarra]

Khazi-daro - Falmer Cave

Khazi pulled her dagger out of the creature, wiped it against its body to clear the blood off, and sheathed it. Her ears twitched to acknowledge the old one's request, and she made her way over to him after she had finished. "Aye?" she asked, unsure of what he wanted.


Niralie - Manor

Niralie was a bit disappointed at the Emperor's answer about the Hollow Council's vulnerabilities - or rather lack thereof, but relieved that it didn't seem that they'd singled her out for any particular reason; she didn't think she could handle the extra stress if they were indeed focusing on her (she'd thought perhaps it was because she'd survived them in Suran, or maybe they thought her particularly dangerous.)

She lost track of the rest of what the Emperor said when the two newcomers entered the room, her eyes widening with surprise as she recognized Arellius. She had never expected to see him again. A flicker of fear passed through her momentarily - the first thing she remembered upon seeing him was his attempt to kill her, and the second thing was his attack on Psyfalia - but she also remembered how they had survived the lifeboat together and worked together after, and he'd even been the first one to check on her after the troll attacked her. She continued to stare for a moment, noticing his condition, and then he spoke to her.

"Y-yes," she stammered in agreement, still too surprised to find much else to say. "What... how did you get here?"

[Aarah]

Eolwyn - Manor

Like Niralie, so too was Eolwyn disappointed that the Emperor could provide no known weakness that the Hollow Council possessed.

At the mention of two new arrivals, her eyebrows raised in surprise at the sight of the return of Arellius. She gave him a nod of recognition, then turned her attention back to the Emperor's outstretched hands.

A Thread?
The Bosmer took the shoes and stared down at them with interest and apprehension.
"Thank you. Could you tell me, where were these shoes late last night exactly? Were they in the Falkreath Hold at that time?"

[Baloth-Kul]

Falkreath - Manor

At Nora's 'request', the emperor nodded affirmative. "You have my word, it will be so."

With Eolwyn's question, Jacme looked at Vayniah Linvail with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, I was in Helgen. Heard they had mead with juniper berries, it was supposed to be good. Tasted like--" Vayniah stopped herself, as she remembered she was in the presence of Uriel Septim VII.

"I thank you for your service, Champions. May the Gods keep you safe." With that, Uriel Septim and his guards departed. Lord Jacme nodded to the party. "Dinner will be served shortly, so please, make yourselves comfortable." Lord Jacme and Vayniah both left the room as well.

As soon as the door closed, the flames within the fireplace flared with new life, and turned a bright violet. The fireplace began billowing a thick, black smoke, which quickly coalesced into a figure, standing before the party.

"That 'Grey Vigil', right? No fun at all. But you all have been a good bit of sport." Sanguine, Daedric Lord of revelry and debauchery, stood before the Champions once again.